Medellin's growing car culture

When moving to a new culture, there are several things you love apart from your loved ones that you must leave behind. For me the weirdest part has been leaving my connection to cars and car culture behind. I've been under cars turning wrenches since I was 8, By the time I was 12, I'd rebuilt more than one carburetor, and I drove all of the cars left on my parents country property, learning the basics of rally car driving and even rolling a Suzuki Samurai several times. For the record, I never got caught, sorry mom. You get to find out since the statute of limitations has expired.

The first car I drive around when I got my license was a 1970 Old Cutlass convertible. It was 4 different colors and the interior was ratty and beat up, but I didn't mind. I took my drivers test in this car, and oddly enough I got marked down for driving too slow. That didn't last long, 3 weeks after getting my license I got a ticket on Highway 505 for "90 in a 65" But thanks to the CHP officer being a classmate's dad, I got off easy. In reality, I was going considerably faster - More like 120-130, racing a car full of Chico State students. The CHP Airplane caught us, so needless to say that could have ended differently with an impounded car, and time in jail.

That moment of teenage stupidity was the genesis of my love for cars and speed, which would last my whole life. I spent the next 25 years buying, fixing, and selling different cars I wanted. I owned Acuras, Hondas, Chevys, Mercedes, Porsches, BMWs and even a Mini Cooper. I had this idea that when I got here to Medellin, that would continue. I even went as far as to split the cost of a lease for an Audi Q3 with my first girlfriend here. When we got the car, we put 14,000km on it in 2 years - we barely drove the car. There just wasn't the same kind of car community there was in the US. I learned once I got here that a big part of the love I felt for cars, was the community. Well things have changed in the near 9 years that I've been here

A City Built for Car Enthusiasts

Medellín’s car scene is unique, blending the local passion for vehicles with global trends. The city’s love for cars can be traced back to its motor industry history and the way automobiles are deeply woven into the Colombian lifestyle. From car clubs to weekend drives on winding mountain roads, Medellín provides a rich canvas for car lovers.

What sets Medellín apart is its diversity. Here, you’ll find American muscle cars like Mustangs and Camaros rumbling through the streets, Japanese imports (JDM) with custom tuning lighting up night meets, and sleek European cars cruising with unmistakable elegance.

American Muscle Cars in Medellín

For those who love raw power and a touch of nostalgia, Medellín’s muscle car community is alive and roaring. Enthusiasts of American classics like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Charger often gather to showcase their rides and exchange tips on restoration and maintenance.

Where to Connect

• Clásicos y Antiguos Medellín: This group is dedicated to vintage and classic cars, including American muscle. They host regular meetups where you can admire beautifully restored vehicles and connect with other fans.

• Muscle Car Enthusiasts Medellín: A smaller yet passionate group of owners who arrange private events, road trips, and casual meets.

JDM Tuner Culture: Import Enthusiasts Unite

Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars have a devoted following in Medellín. From Nissan Skylines and Honda Civics to Toyota Supras and Mazda RX-7s, JDM enthusiasts take pride in custom builds and high-performance modifications. You won't even need a Motec Engine Management system or a Spoon engine to participate.

Where to Connect

• Tuning Colombia: A national network of car tuners, Tuning Colombia hosts events in Medellín, showcasing the latest modifications and street-ready builds. There is a Facebook group for the network, but it's all in Spanish.

• JDM Medellín: A tight-knit community that celebrates Japanese imports through regular meetups, races, and discussions about tuning culture. They have bi-weekly car meetups at the Lavafante just past Monterey CC on Avenida Las Vegas

• La Feria de Tuning y Car Audio: This annual event is a must for anyone into JDM culture. It features competitions for best mods, sound systems, and overall style.

European Elegance: For the Love of Precision Engineering

Medellín also has a strong European car scene, catering to fans of brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. These cars are prized for their performance, design, and engineering, and their owners often form exclusive clubs and host refined gatherings.

Where to Connect

• Club BMW Medellín: This club organizes drives through scenic routes, offering members a chance to showcase their vehicles and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.

• Porsche Club Medellín: A premium group for Porsche owners who value sophistication and performance. They host regular events, including track days.

• Euro Fest Medellín: This is a yearly festival celebrating European vehicles, featuring competitions, live music, and vendor exhibits.

Published Car Meets and Events

For car enthusiasts in Medellín, weekends are often reserved for attending car meets and shows. Here are some of the most popular events where you can see a variety of cars and connect with other fans:

1. Autódromo de Tocancipá Events

Although located near Bogotá, this iconic racetrack hosts national events that attract Medellín’s car lovers. From drag races to drift competitions, these gatherings are worth the trip.

2. Medellín Street Races (Unpublished)

Medellín’s car scene also includes underground street racing, a phenomenon fueled by the city’s passion for speed. While not officially sanctioned, these events draw significant crowds. Always approach with caution and respect for local laws.

3. Cars and Coffee Medellín

This global phenomenon has a Medellín chapter where owners of luxury, vintage, and high-performance cars meet up over coffee to share stories and display their prized possessions.

4. Feria de Autos y Motos

Part of the city’s renowned Feria de las Flores, this event showcases a stunning array of vehicles, including muscle cars, JDM imports, and European models.

Online Communities: Staying in the Loop

Social media plays a significant role in Medellín’s car culture. Many events are organized through Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats, making it easy to stay updated.

Recommended Groups

• Medellín Car Culture (Facebook): A general hub for all car enthusiasts, where members share event details, photos, and discussions.

• Tuning Medellín (Instagram): Follow for updates on the latest car meets and trends in the city’s tuning scene.

• Club Carros Medellín (WhatsApp): A chat group for quick updates on impromptu gatherings and races.

Medellín’s car culture is as diverse as the city itself. From the growl of muscle cars to the sleek lines of European sedans and the modified artistry of JDM tuners, there’s a place for every car enthusiast. So polish your ride, join a club, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Medellín’s automobile community.

You’re sure to find your tribe among the engines, exhausts, and endless passion for cars.