The collection features several vehicles that were once used as film props in local and international period dramas.
The museum houses a rare selection of early 1900s brass-era cars, some of which are among the oldest in the Western Cape.
Unlike traditional polished museums, this site retains a working-garage aesthetic where restoration projects are often visible.
The inventory is privately owned and curated, focusing heavily on models that were historically significant to the South African motoring market.
The Wijnland Auto Museum, located in Joostenberg Vlakte, houses an extensive private collection of vintage and classic automobiles dating back to the early 20th century. The facility showcases over 80 vehicles, ranging from rare pre-war models to mid-century icons. Many of the cars are displayed in an open-plan warehouse setting, allowing for close inspection of mechanical details and upholstery. The collection includes various European and American brands, highlighting automotive design evolution through the decades. It serves as a significant repository for South African automotive history and restoration enthusiasts. The museum is located within a rural, semi-industrial landscape near the N1 highway corridor between Cape Town and Paarl.
The central row where the vintage 1920s and 1930s models are aligned provides the most symmetrical and visually striking composition.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the floor surfaces in the storage areas can be uneven or dusty.
Bring a high-quality camera, as the lighting in the main hangar allows for excellent detail shots of vehicle engines and trim.
Check ahead if you have a specific interest in a particular decade, as the collection layout is occasionally rearranged for maintenance.
Do not expect a climate-controlled, ultra-modern facility; the museum maintains a rustic, warehouse-style atmosphere.
Open daily, but occasionally closes for private events or maintenance; always verify current access before travelling.
Do not touch the vehicles or lean on the displays; keep children supervised at all times due to protruding mechanical parts.
