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BMW 750Li Security Edition used by Nelson Mandela at Franschhoek Motor Museum

Nelson Mandela used the BMW 750Li Security Edition.

Home Vehicles Mandela’s armoured BMW leads Heritage Month display at Franschhoek Motor Museum

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Mandela’s armoured BMW leads Heritage Month display at Franschhoek Motor Museum

A BMW once used as Nelson Mandela’s official transport is among the historic vehicles visitors will see at the Franschhoek Motor Museum during Heritage Month.

The museum’s September displays trace 129 years of South African motoring history through more than 80 bicycles, tricycles, motorcycles, carriages and cars.

Current themes include veteran and vintage vehicles, anniversary models, British cars, rare machines and performance vehicles.

Mandela’s BMW carries specialist security features

The museum is the custodian of a BMW 750Li Security Edition used by Mandela during his HIV/Aids campaign from 2004 to 2009.

Its security features include a strengthened floorpan, an emergency exit through the windscreen and an onboard fire-extinguishing system.

The vehicle also has GPS tracking and a specialised communication system designed to support emergency assistance and extraction.

Despite its protective features, the BMW has a restrained exterior.

Rare Ford Model T vehicles on display

The museum’s collection includes several Ford Model T vehicles dating back to 1911.

A selection is currently on show, including a 110-year-old Speedster.

The Global Automotive Elections Foundation named the Ford Model T the Car of the Century in December 1999.

Century-old Chevrolet bakkie reflects SA’s working history

A Chevrolet Superior Pick-up offers another look at South Africa’s motoring past.

The century-old bakkie has a bespoke flat-bed body with extended sides. Metal running boards connect the mudguards covering its wooden artillery wheels.

Chevrolet began importing vehicles into South Africa in 1913 and started limited production in 1925.

Pick-ups later became an important part of the country’s industrial and economic development.

Where is the Franschhoek Motor Museum?

The museum is located on the L’Ormarins Estate along the R45 in the Franschhoek Valley.

It is approximately 75km, or a one-hour drive, from central Cape Town.

Secure parking is available.

Motorcycles and buses carrying more than 23 passengers must park at Anthonij Rupert Wyne. A charabanc transports visitors between the parking area and museum.