What got you interested in cars?
I've been into cars for as long as I can remember. It started off when I was just a kid collecting toy models. I now have more than 100 of them and so I built a special cabinet to display them all.
As for full size cars, I like them to be large and luxurious. I especially like older models — they were built to last. However, the technology in all these new cars is very useful but their bodies are too soft and tinny.
You have 20 cars in total, and apart from the two pictured here, which other ones are your favourites, and why?
My red Corvette convertible, which I had built to order, is a genuine head turner. My 2001 BMW 740iL holds a special place in my heart as I bought it eight days after getting my licence, while my Mercedes S320 has lots of space and is very comfortable.
You also have a Hummer H2. Is it stock?
No, I have modified it with lots of chrome trim and LED lights in the interior. It was also built to order and I specced an orange interior.
Even though I like large cars, this one is too big. My brother uses it more than I do.
What do your family and friends think of your collection?
They think I am crazy and spend too much time and money on them. But, what can I say, I am passionate about cars!
You sent your Corvette to India. Why?
I shipped it over because I'm going on vacation there soon, and I wanted to feel at home.
Fair enough. Let's move on to your Maserati. Are you a fan of the marque?
Yes, I am. The Maser manages to be both classy and sporty — not many cars can pull that off. I also have lots of memorabilia including shirts, watches and limited edition sunglasses.
What do you like best about it?
It has to be the exhaust note. Nothing sounds as good and I can't begin to describe the pleasure I get while driving this car. You just have to experience one yourself.
I always wanted one of these and I got quite lucky too. I was just visiting the Al Tayer showroom and the sales team offered me a very good deal which I just could not refuse.
It gets so much attention, probably because of the sound, and whenever my friends are sitting in the car with me, they always want me to accelerate so they can hear the engine.
The XJ8 is a classy ride; tell us all about it…
I've always been a fan of this shape and I'm not really too keen on the new model.
I feel it has lost that timeless style that makes Jaguar what it is.
Will you be adding to your collection any time soon?
I am planning on buying a Rolls-Royce Phantom for my dad, and I'd also like the new Dodge Charger.
Are you part of any car clubs?
I am a member of the Corvette UAE Club and participate whenever they arrange drives around the country.
What is your dream car?
So far I've owned all my dream cars, but there is one I really want, and that's a Bugatti Veyron.
Bio
- Name Sabir Antulay
- Job Managing director
- From Mumbai
- Wheels 2010 Maserati Quattroporte and 2009 Jaguar XJ8
- In the UAE 16 years
