Meet Fabian: The Car‑Loving Founder of SGRetroCar
In the latest episode of In The Passenger Seat, we sit down with Fabian, the mastermind behind SGRetroCar. He’s not just a CEO—he’s a bona‑fide classic car aficionado who lives and breathes everything rubber‑tired. His prized possessions?
- A TA22 Celica that still turns heads at every meetup.
- A chic Mini Cooper Clubman that screams “retro‑cool.”
How It All Began
Back in the days before COVID, you’d spot SGRetroCar banners flashing across classic car shows. The company was practically the unofficial mascot of those gatherings, thanks to Fabian’s savvy marketing and his passion for restoration.
Shares From a Bad‑Boy Friend
Our last guest, greyturd, introduced us to Fabian, who’s also the proud owner of a Fiat X1/9—yes, the legendary Italian compact that earned him awards in the 90s. He recently added a fresh TA22 Celica to his collection, proving that even a seasoned enthusiast still hunts for that next thrill.
Fabian’s “Why” Behind the Wheels
“I’m all about those four‑wheel memories,” Fabian chuckles. “You can almost hear the roar of a classic engine like it’s telling a story. SGRetroCar is my way of keeping those stories alive and making sure every car gets the love it deserves.”
When asked about running the business, he reveals a delightful mix of old‑school dedication and modern hustle:
- Restoring cars like a family recipe—every detail matters.
- Organizing events where vintage wheels meet the modern world.
- Giving back community support to keep the classic car scene buzzing.
And the best part? Fabian’s crew at SGRetroCar is as enthusiastic as his cars. Together, they keep the classics rolling and the stories alive for future generations.
Takeaway
Fabian’s love for classic cars isn’t just a hobby—it’s a mission. Through SGRetroCar, he blends craftsmanship with community, ensuring that the magic of the past is never forgotten. If you ever catch a SGRetroCar banner at an event, you’ll know that a whole team of dreamers is behind it.
First of all, what’s your name, age and what do you do?
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Fabian Ng – The Legend Behind SGretroCAR
Meet Fabian Ng, a motorcycle-loving, time-traveling car enthusiast whose age is an urban legend. While he says he’s “30 at heart,” when it comes to surface-level facts he’s a bit hands-off.
What Fabian Does
- Classic & Retro Car Events: From vintage car rallies to niche car shows, Fabio has got the calendar covered.
- Global Media Coverage: He brings the globetrotting flavor, making sure overseas retro events get the spotlight they deserve.
- Car Sourcing & Import: If a classic car’s in your dreams, Fabian can get it delivered to your doorstep.
- Vehicle Registration: He handles the bureaucratic side so you can focus on the fun.
- Discounted Vehicle Loans: A little extra saving goes a long way, especially for a car that’s heavier on the nostalgia factor.
- COE Renewal Loans: Guarantee a smooth continuation of your own classic’s life on the roads.
Why Fans Love Him
With a knack for blending humor and professionalism, Fabian makes car events feel like a bustling road trip and not a monotonous meeting. Fans say his approach is fun, approachable, and kind of magical.
Connect with Fabian
Whether you’re in need of a roaring classic, a smooth import, or just a good laugh, Fabian Ng is your go-to guide to a classic car adventure that’s both nostalgic and brand new.
For the people who don’t know, what car(s) are you driving now, how did you manage to get them?
Meet My Two Cars
Right now, I’m cruising with a pair of pretty neat rides: a classic Mini Clubman and a TA22 Celica GT. They’re my daily companions, and I can’t decide which one steals my heart more.
The Mini Clubman Saga
Back in 2008, I bought my current Mini Clubman and a smaller front‑end Mini at the same time. I couldn’t pick a favorite, so I grabbed both. They were both registered on “daily plates,” meaning I could drive them straight off the buyer’s end. The Mini was a cheap, entry‑level classic runabout—good for a quick spin or a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Why I Fell for the Celica GT
Ever since I was a kid, the TA22 Celica GT has been a dream car. Its powerful, muscular lines and timeless design have always made me swoon. Under the hood sits a twin‑carb DOHC 1.6L engine that chugs 125 hp straight to the rear wheels via a five‑speed gearbox. Classic Japanese performance of the 1970s—pure rock‑and‑roll engineering.
How the Purchase Happened
- I jumped on the opportunity without a second thought.
- The deal was made without even stepping foot inside the car or taking it for a test drive.
- It was a spontaneous, gut‑feeling purchase—something you don’t often do with a sports car.
And now, with both cars in my garage, I get the best of both worlds: the compact charm of the Mini and the raw power of the Celica. Life’s good.
When you finally got the keys to your Toyota Celica and Mini and took them out for their initial spin, what thoughts were running through your mind?
Mini Clubman
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Getting Closer to My Mini (Without Turning the Dashboard Off)
Picture this: you’re long‑distance driving, the highway stretches like a ribbon, and your little Mini is turning every corner like a pro dancer. Even with the whole journey draining your batteries, the joy of getting behind the wheel keeps on buzzing. That’s the miniature magic that still makes my heart skip.
First Love, Second Love, And… Endless Love?
When I first opened the door, I loved the sleek lines, the cheeky grin of its nose, and the way the engine let out that unmistakable “vroom‑vroom” that’s practically a soundtrack. Fast forward 13 years later and I’ve turned this little car from a novelty into my personal playground.
Restock, Remodel, Re‑engineer
- Interior makeover: From the plastic seats to the dashboard, I swapped out each piece for something that fits my vibe – think “retro chic” meets “high-tech circus.”
- Exterior sparkle: The paint job wasn’t just a fresh coat; it was a revamp that made the Mini dance under the sun.
- Customization journey: It began as a casual tweak (new decals, a different steering wheel) and grew into a full-on “wild” transformation – all within the roads of legality.
Why the Love Persists (And Grows)
Every time I hit the road, whether it’s a detour to the next town or a marathon of miles, the Mini still feels like that first spark – only now it’s seasoned, personalized, and absolutely irreplaceable.
So, yes, the sense of driving a Mini is still mind‑blowing. And after 13 years of tweaks, I’ve cracked the ultimate loyalty code: it’s my Mini, in its own personalized glory, that keeps the ticket to my driving dreams forever stamped.
TA22 Celica GT
My Overseas Car Adventure: The Celica Chronicles
Picture this: I was chasing that sleek, silver dream, even though it was all the way overseas and COVID had turned every trip into a “no‑go” sticker. The deal? I fell for a pixel-perfect photo frame sent by the seller and thought, “No fuss, no rust. I’ll DIY.”
The Reality Check
When the Celica finally rolled into my driveway, it felt like a disappointment party—smiles turned into frowns and my heart went from “happy” to “huh‑what??”. All those rust spots? Yeah, they looked like the car had been breathing in a swamp. And the missing parts? Like a puzzle missing a few pieces.
A New Roadmap
- Redraw the checklist: What does the Celica need to run like a dream?
- Dedicate two months and 300 hours to become the ultimate DIY mechanic.
- Embrace the chaos and treat each challenge like a personal puzzle.
The 95% Triumph
Today, the Celica’s restoration is at 95% and fully customized to my vision. It purrs like a contented kitten, shifted on autopilot, and I’m grinning from ear to ear each time someone gives me a thumbs‑up. Every drive feels like a victory lap.
Takeaway
When life throws a rust‑y mess your way, put on your mechanic hat and roll up your sleeves. The payoff? A car that turns heads and a story worth telling at parties.
What was your earliest memory of cars, how did you get into it?
When I First Met the Road
Picture this: a tiny toddler, maybe two or three, already sending a world of wheels into the world of doodles. While other kids were busy with fairy‑tale adventures or comic books, I was all about that glossy car magazine lifestyle.
By the time I hit six, the little sketches I put on paper had officially become a lifelong obsession—cars and music stuck together like peanut butter and jelly, with a sprinkle of cats and dogs for good measure.
Why Cars Are My Life (and Not Just the Car of the Day)
- Early Fascination – From my first sketch to attending car shows, I’ve never looked back.
- Music Is the Soundtrack – Every rev, horn, or hornbeat syncs perfectly with my playlist.
- Pet Side‑kicks – Cats and dogs are my extra companions, but they rarely look at me the way a good car does.
One Moment That Still Makes Me Laugh
I once tried to trade my entire car collection for a handful of comic book heroes. The shop owner looked at me, and said, “Sorry, kid, our heroes run on imagination, not on an engine block!”
Car‑a‑Little‑Story Off The Shelf
After that, it was all about two windshield wipers and an engine sound that hummed like a lullaby—meeting my inner fuel that keeps me buzzing every single day.
How many cars have you owned across the years?
The Epic 19‑Year Car Adventure
I’m not talking about a gallery of classic cars — I mean a row of 45 different wheels. Over nearly two decades, my garage has been a revolving door of anything that drives.
Humble Beginnings
Picture this: a kid from a modest family, still in polytechnic, signing up with the RSAF. Why? Because I needed a driving licence and, oddly enough, a budget for a car. At 18, I proudly became a proud owner of a 1989 ZC CRX. It’s more than just a car; it’s a time capsule of nostalgia.
The Racing Awakening
After those first sweet rides, I peas through a Charade GTi, and bam — I hit the Kallang car‑park arena for a race. It feels kinda like a mini‑Grand Prix in the city. But to keep up with the stakes, I swapped that into a Suzuki Cultus GTi, because size does matter.
- Three Extra Years of Racing — I didn’t give up after the first wave.
- Military Budget Crunch — “You can’t drop more money than I can afford!” I told myself as the credits kept piling up.
- Retirement — Yet, the thrill didn’t vanish; it just evolved into a new chapter for the car‑lover in me.
Beyond the Race Track
There’s a whole slew of different experiences waiting behind each of those 45 cars. From the tuned‑up throbbing of a sports coupe to the quiet comfort of a family sedan, each vehicle told a story that I was eager to live.
So, stay tuned. The next chapter? Who knows – maybe a vintage Volkswagen or a shiny new electric sedan. Either way, I promise to keep the wheel spinning!
I heard that you used to have a Fiat x1/9 that won many awards, could you tell us more about it?
From Glitz to Grit: My Show‑Car Journey
When I first rolled out this beast in both overseas and local automobility arenas, the car felt like a star in a blockbuster. It snagged a handful of trophies for being a one‑of‑a‑kind masterpiece.
Fifth‑Year of Hard Work
I dubbed it a “work in progress” for five years—redesigning, sanding, polishing. When it was finally ready for Retrohavoc 2020, the COVID‑19 wave stepped in and stole the limelight.
After the Show
- Sold it when I bought the TA22 Celica.
- Despite all the customization, it sold for less than it was worth.
Lessons Learned
Sometimes the most cherished projects have to go. But every paint stripe, every bolt tells a story. The next adventure is where the real payoff lies.
Also Read
Take a peek at a man’s 30‑year‑old car adventure—he’s in the passenger seat, and it’s as wild as it sounds!
You run SGRetroCAR; why and how did you start that?
Why the SGRetroCAR Group Exists
Back in 2016, I had a bright idea: give classic cars the spotlight they deserve. Those vintage beauties deserve a little love, a lot of respect, and an open forum for enthusiasts.
What We Do
We’re not just a club – we’re a support hub for owners who treat their old cars like vintage treasure. From daily maintenance tips to dream restoration projects, our mission is simple:
- Showcase the art of caring for classic vehicles
- Celebrate the dedication that goes into keeping a car pristine
- Boost the community’s knowledge and confidence
Get Cozy with the Community
Unsure how to tackle that stubborn rust or want to swap engine swap secrets? We’ve got your back. Use our platform to share:
- Lead-generating ideas for parts and accessories
- Insider views on the latest preservation techniques
- Hands-on troubleshooting when your car gets a hiccup
Feel the Thrill of Classic Auto Passion
Reviving a classic car isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. For us, it’s a whole new level of enthusiasm that brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or dreaming of your first restoration, SGRetroCAR offers a welcoming space to share, learn, and laugh along the way.
Ready to Join?
Submerge yourself in the world of older cars and let your passion grow. Explore, connect, and become part of the SGRetroCAR family today!
How’s the journey with SGRetrocar?
How One Retro Car Enthusiast Turned a Passion into a Full‑Service Business
2017 – The Spark
Back in 2017 I founded SGretroCAR Pte Ltd, not to sell cars but to give people front‑row access to the world’s greatest retro car events. I was busy covering local and international shows, turning those bustling stands into a media playground.
2018 – From Fans to Facelifters
Some of my crew were hunting for affordable classics. The answer? We opened a new chapter: classic‑car sourcing, importing, and registration for clients. No more paying “duh” prices for a piece of history.
2019 – The Loan Revolution
When I needed a COE loan to finance my X1/9, banks threw rates that felt like an extra fee for a space‑flight ticket. I decided to change that narrative.
- Seek out fair and competitive COE renewal and used‑car loan packages.
- Eliminate those frustrating admin fees that hide behind the headline.
- Build group discounts that truly feel like “we’ve got your back.”
By the end of 2019, we were helping people keep their COEs up to date at rates so low you could almost brag about them.
The Legacy Keeps Going
SGretroCAR isn’t just a name – it’s a community. From covering events, to sourcing, to financing, we turn the love of retro cars into a practical service that keeps wheels turning.
Why Pick SGretroCAR?
- Transparent Financing – No hidden fees, just honest rates.
- Expert Importing – We find the right cars and bring them to your driveway.
- Group Discounts – Work with us and share the savings.
- Passion for Classics – Every car we handle is treated like a work of art.
How would you say SGRetroCAR stands out from other classic car importers in Singapore?
SGRetroCAR: Passion Over Profit
At SGRetroCAR, the game is all about the love of a car, not the bottom line. As the founder, I roll up my sleeves, jump in, and handle everything myself— from the first check‑mark to the last custom paint touch.
Why DIY Matters
- Save Time: I cut the middleman’s detours— no waiting for the dealer’s schedule.
- Save Money: Building it yourself (or with my help) keeps the budget lean.
- Mind the Headaches: DIY gives you control, so you’re the one deciding when a “pain” is worth the effort.
Every Classic Is a Work in Progress
Think of every old car that rolls into my workshop as a canvas waiting for a masterpiece. I put my personal touch in every job— no quick hacks. Whether it’s a rust‑free overhaul or a custom upholstery, each vehicle gets the same seat‑up quality treatment.
Small but Mighty
We’re not going to compete with the big import juggernauts. Scale isn’t our game. What we do promise is speed, precision, and a personalised service that’s good for your pocket.
Beyond the Workshop
Need a part but drowning in options? I’ll point you to reliable online shops that won’t burn your wallet. Need help with a tweak that usually trips a mechanic? I’ll give you step‑by‑step instructions so you can tackle it yourself— no workshop bill in sight.
Why Choose SGRetroCAR?
- Personalized Experience: Every owner gets my full attention.
- E-Quest: Faster turnaround, fewer surprises.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, just honest rates.
At the end of the day, SGRetroCAR isn’t just a service—it’s a passion‑driven journey that turns the old into the new again.
Finally, what are your thoughts on the car scene in Singapore?
Why Classic Cars Still Beat the New Models in Fun
Owning a vintage ride is like having a piece of automotive art, plus a sweet, sensible price tag.
Gen‑Z Loves the Retro Vibe
- It’s old‑school style.
- The drives feel alive, not like a bullet‑proof Tesla cruise.
- Many young folks find the nostalgia irresistible.
The Modern Car Scene is Turning Into a “Show‑off” Culture
Without the thrill of motorsports, a lot of people now favor shiny, loud supercars that just want to brag.
- Cheapest thing: a bump‑in‑the‑road because you can afford the biggest engine.
- Letting the exhaust roar “enerates” a soundtrack that annoys everyone else.
- Drawing in a gang of clueless “noise makers” who think that’s the coolest.
What’s Really Cool? Real Driving Skill
Instead of blowing streams of emissions everywhere, classic cars demand hands‑on engagement, skill and a sense of responsibility.
Need a Hand With a Classic?
No worries. SGRetroCars has got you covered with maintenance, parts, and guidance that keep your vintage joy in top shape.
Good Luck, Classic Enthusiasts!
Embrace the old‑school charm, keep it real and enjoy the cruise that’s all yours.
