Business 15 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Isaac Laago's Shs6m Vintage Benz Dream Turns into Costly Nightmare
Isaac Laago, a driver-guide from Kibuku District, saved up Shs6m to buy his dream 1982 Mercedes-Benz 190E, only to spend another Shs6m on repairs before selling it at a loss. Despite the breakdowns and embarrassment, he cherishes the memories and lessons from his first car adventure. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/auto/my-shs6m-benz-drained-all-my-savings-5424994
Isaac Laago fulfilled a childhood dream by purchasing a classic 1982 Mercedes-Benz 190E for Shs6m at the end of 2023. Growing up in Kibuku District, owning a car seemed out of reach, but his job as a driver-guide allowed him to save enough cash.
The elegant vintage ride quickly revealed its flaws. Constant breakdowns and repair bills matched the purchase price, totaling another Shs6m. He sold it within a year for half the cost, calling it ‘the first wrong step in the right direction.’
Memorable mishaps included failing to climb a slope, causing a traffic jam, and earning him ‘uncle’ status from onlookers due to its age. Nicknamed ‘Vintage,’ it became his moniker as ‘Vintage Boss.’
Yet, joyful moments stood out, like weekend cruises with friends around Kampala, blasting Fally Ipupa’s ‘Mayday.’ He even drove it back to his hometown in Tirinyi, despite mechanical struggles.
The unexpected Toyota Noah engine swap added endless issues, forcing him to let go. Now back to boda bodas, Laago reflects fondly, saying he’d restore it properly if given another chance.
The 1982 Mercedes-Benz 190E, or ‘Baby Benz,’ is a revered compact luxury sedan known for durability and motorsport legacy.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)