“Not Everyone Is Poor”: Luxury Cars in Cyril Ramaphosa’s Economy Leave Mzansi Debating Wealth Gaps
- A TikTok video showing expensive luxury cars sparked strong debates among South Africans about wealth and economic struggles
- While some admired the vehicles, others reflected on the contrast between financial hardship and visible displays of wealth
- The clip spread quickly online, turning a simple car showcase into a wider conversation about inequality and aspiration
South Africans reacted strongly as a car video turned into a reflection of the country’s wealth gaps and financial realities.
Source: TikTok
A video shared by TikTok user @ricthecarguy on 28 September 2025 caught South Africans’ attention after showcasing a collection of luxury cars in what many described as Cyril Ramaphosa’s struggling economy. The clip, posted on TikTok, showed a variety of top-end vehicles, including a G-Wagon, Range Rovers, BMWs and high-end Mercedes-Benz models. Within days, it became a talking point as viewers compared the sight of such expensive cars to the financial challenges many ordinary South Africans say they are facing.
Beyond the showcase of cars, the video reflected a broader narrative about wealth and visibility. At a time when many complain about unemployment and the cost of living, the presence of high-value vehicles on local roads was seen as a reminder that not everyone is affected in the same way. For some, it highlighted aspiration and motivation, while for others, it sparked conversations about inequality and how wealth is distributed in South Africa.
Luxury versus financial struggles
The post quickly went viral and within four days, it gained significant traction on TikTok with thousands of views, likes, and comments. Many users reshared the clip across platforms, pointing out the mix of fascination and frustration it caused. The video became part of a wider trend of ‘car spotting’ content online, but with a uniquely South African twist linked to the current economic climate.
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Reactions showed a mix of admiration for the vehicles and reflection on the realities faced by most citizens. Some people felt encouraged by seeing symbols of success, while others noted how stark the contrast was to their daily struggles. Overall, the video became more than just a showcase of cars; it became a mirror of how people view money, success, and survival in South Africa today.
Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacted to the video
Flower shared:
“Not my car being in this video. 🤣❤”
T Sishi reflected on wealth gaps:
“Someone once commented that ‘we might live in the same economy but not all of us are affected by it.’ Till this day, it stays on my mind. 😩😩”
Rapula_phosh added perspective:
“Yeah, because they chose not to follow what they were taught at school, they followed the laws to wealth.”
Usser87163 reminded everyone:
“Let’s not forget to pick the car before the house.”
ThabisoSetai joked:
“That’s my Porsche Cayenne. 😭😂”
Meems_mamita offered an answer:
“People in SAP/web development.”
Sedy Marcx✞ kept it short and hopeful:
“Manifesting. 💋🙂↕️🫣”
Kopano_t wondered aloud:
“What do they know that I don’t know? 😭”
Bhojo teased the system:
“Cyril has an economy? Ave nihlanya, niphinde nidakwe!”
It's that girl hyped it up:
“Welcome to the big league. 🔥 @tbone_the_third.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 other Briefly News stories about luxury cars
- During his recent Durban tour, Sjava was spotted with a sleek ride worth over R1 million, sparking buzz online.
- A young South African medical doctor went viral for celebrating a significant academic achievement with luxurious cars.
- A viral TikTok showed learners arriving at their matric dance in stylish cars, thanks to the efforts of their parents.
Source: Briefly News
