The various forms of vehicles depict a myriad of appearances and experiences, each reflecting the cycles of prosperity and decline. The evolution and transformation of vehicles throughout this period are intricately linked to economic growth, societal shifts, and historical developments. Over the course of nearly a century, the historical evolution of diverse vehicle types can shed light on the development and changes in the social, political, and economic landscape of old Shanghai. This book aims to offer young readers a concise portrayal of the transportation and customs of old Shanghai, allowing them to gain a more comprehensive understanding of today's Shanghai through insights into the past and prospects for the future. This is precisely the author's aspiration.

车子大观园里格式车子各有相貌又迭有兴衰，期间的演化沿革自然由于经济增长、社会变化、历史发展息息相关。在近百年间各式车子的历史演变也可以从一个侧面反映出旧上海市的社会政治、经济活动和人情风俗的发展变化。本书意在为青年朋友贡献一副简明的旧上海交通风俗画，以便于通过了解过去而更全面地认识今天的上海及展望未来，这正是笔者的愿望所在。