The term ‘máquina’ in Cuba refers to classic American cars, particularly the vintage vehicles from the pre-Revolutionary era, most commonly from the 1940s and 1950s. In Cuban slang,'”máquina’ literally translates to ‘machine’, but in this context, it is used to describe the old, well-maintained cars that continue to run on the streets of Cuba despite their age. Since the Cuban Revolution of 1959 and the subsequent embargo, the importation of new cars to the island was severely restricted. As a result, many Cubans have kept these vintage vehicles running through resourceful repairs, modifications, and adaptations. Mechanics often use parts from other cars, and some modernize the engines, making them more efficient or reliable.

The”máquinas’ became an iconic part of Cuban culture, representing both the country’s historical ties to pre-revolutionary capitalism (especially with their American origins) and the creativity required to maintain them in a country with limited access to new automotive parts. These cars are often used as taxis, especially in tourist areas like Havana, where visitors can take a ride in one of these colorful, refurbished classics. In the 1980s and 1990s, Cuba received several buses from the Netherlands as part of trade agreements or aid. Nowadays they still have dutch destinations.

Below is a selection of photos taken from ‘máquinas’ and dutch buses during a visit to Cuba in April 2011 Click on a small photo for a larger view, then select the next one with the cursor keys or the arrows on either side of the photo.