30 May,2026 10:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Saanvi Bhosale
Rafael Joseph with a 1972 Willyz Jeep
Personality over looks" is a phrase you will often hear in reference to dating preferences or marriage market proposals, not so much for cars. But for the Bandra-based content creator Rafael Joseph, if your car doesn't have a personality consider it dropped from his roster. "The type of car you drive says a lot about you as a person." Joseph says, and with this golden rule in mind he patrols the streets of Bandra, evaluating any car that catches his eye as he documents it in his Instagram series Roadside Reviews. Joseph's reviews have created a buzz for its quick-witted street-smart commentary and pop culture references, "Growing up I've always had interesting opinions on cars. Roadside Reviews acts as an outlet for my thoughts and rants."
The teenager follows a strict protocol while reviewing cars, "A car should make you feel good; it doesn't matter how new or expensive it is. If I had to pick between reviewing a Mercedes E-class and a second generation Maruti 800, I would still pick the Maruti, because it would have a story to it," he reveals.
For Joseph, the ideal car should be an extension of the owner's personality, "For people who really like cars, it's a lot more than just metal and oil. It's why you find so many of us take care of our cars in such a rigorous, meticulous manner. It's like an extension of you," he shares, although he finds that Mumbai lacks that culture.
When scouting for cars, Joseph always keeps a look-out for oddballs, "I always keep an eye for a car that appears a tad weird. I don't usually like the mainstream stuff. I'm an older car enthusiast - models like Fiat Palio, the old Honda City, Suzuki Esteem, and Mitsubishi Lancer interest me," he reveals. Giving an honest critique of a stranger's car however, comes with its own challenges, "My biggest fear is that I might be bad-mouthing someone's car, and the owner shows up out of nowhere. I always have my excuses ready for a scenario like that," he chuckles.
In the meantime though, Joseph's weekly car critique operations are in full swing, and if you are taking your car out for a drive in Bandra, keep an eye out for a 19-year-old who might view it as his next assignment.
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