Car Prices in Pakistan in 1947 to 2025 — A Historical Journey of Change
When Pakistan gained independence in 1947, owning a car was considered a symbol of power, wealth, and prestige. At that time, the price of a new car ranged between Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 20,000, which was an enormous amount of money for most citizens. Only the country’s elite — including British officers, businessmen, and landlords — could afford such luxury vehicles.
A Glimpse into the Past
After independence, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah himself used a 1924 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, reflecting the rare presence of luxury cars in the country. In the late 1940s, cars were not produced locally and had to be imported from the UK, the US, and Europe. This made them both costly and exclusive.
| Car Brand | Model | Price in 1947 (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Ford | Prefect | Rs. 4,000 – Rs. 5,000 |
| Morris | Minor | Rs. 3,000 – Rs. 4,500 |
| Chevrolet | Fleetmaster | Rs. 6,000 – Rs. 7,500 |
| Austin | A40 | Rs. 4,000 – Rs. 5,500 |
| Cadillac | Series 62 | Rs. 12,000 – Rs. 15,000+ |
| Rolls-Royce | Phantom Models | Rs. 20,000+ |
Why Cars Were So Expensive
Cars were costly for several reasons:
- Imported Only: Pakistan had no automobile industry, so every vehicle came from abroad.
- High Import Costs: Shipping fees, customs duties, and taxes raised prices.
- Limited Supply: Few vehicles were available in the market, increasing demand.
- Strong Rupee Value: In 1947, even Rs. 5,000 had a value equal to several lakhs today.
- Poor Infrastructure: Fuel was inexpensive, but petrol stations and paved roads were rare outside major cities.
Car Prices in 2025 — A Big Contrast
Fast forward to 2025, and the story is entirely different. Pakistan now has local car assembly plants, but vehicle prices have soared due to inflation, taxes, and currency depreciation. A small hatchback like the Suzuki Alto costs around Rs. 2.3 million, while luxury cars such as the Toyota Fortuner exceed Rs. 16 million.
Final Words
In 1947, a vehicle represented luxury and achievement, available simplest to the wealthiest. Today, even as motors are increasingly unusual, they nevertheless continue to be a primary financial commitment for most Pakistanis. The journey from Rs. 5000 in 1947 to thousands and thousands in 2025 suggests how the fee of money and the car market have transformed over 78 years.
