Different then those high dollar car shows. If you love these types of cars, you will love these shows.
Join us at Colorado Springs' 1st ever "Concours de Elegance" held at The Broadmoor Hotel last summer. A "high dollar show" for sure but an opportunity to see some amazing cars in a low key atmosphere right here in Colorado Springs.
by Jeff Allison
The 24th Colorado Conclave continued as one of the region's premier events for British sports cars and motorcycles. Held on September 15-16 in Arvada, Colorado, the event featured a Ride the Rockies tour on Saturday and the Conclave show on Sunday.
Ride the Rockies is a day-long motoring event, and this year a record 125 cars clambered up, down and around the Rocky Mountain foothills west of Denver. The Ride was blessed by magnificent Colorado sunshine, highlighting the changing aspens in the cool, crisp mountain air. It concluded at the popular Las Margaritas Restaurant where the cars were displayed in a special parking area.
The 24th editiion of the Conclave attracted more than 500 cars, ranging from a 1930 MG midget Double-Twelve to a late-model Jaguar XKR with almost every variation of British car in between. Organizer Gary George explained that attitude and spirit were more important at this show than period-correct details, as there was no judging, only fun. This year's theme was Vintage Racing Cars, and several Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing entries were on display, including a powerful Surtees TS5 Formula 5000 and an Elva Mk IV sports racer.
One of the most interesting displays was a full-sized Austin Healey Sprite in a model car box just like you'd find in a toy store, only supersized. A rare MG EX186, an abandoned racing project based on the MGA with a swoopy aerodynamic alloy body, caused a few double takes from the enthusiastic and knowledgeable spectators.
The Conclave, first held in 1983, is a joint effort of the English car clubs in Colorado. The event provides support to the Boy Scouts, who assisted in parking and the Shrine Pipe Band, which provided the appropriate musical atmosphere on the field. The Conclave encourages owners to operate and preserve their cars, as well as participate in the activities of he British marques; they will celebrate their 25th year in 2008. For more information, visit coloradoconclave.com.
by Robert Bowen
Southern California has a lot of car shows, but one of our favorites is the annual Best of France and Italy affair. It's a casual, non-judged show that attracts real enthusiasts. Some of the strangest cars ever to grace the autostrada rub shoulders with some of the most valuable.
There were too many amazing cars at the November 4 show to note them all, but some of our favorites were the three Renault R5s, the rows upon rows of Alfettas, and a Chrysler Ghia—one of only four or so ever built. A Cizeta V16 produced amazing poetry from the exhaust, giving the day an unforgettable soundtrack. Consummate car guy Jay Leno was there with his Bugatti Type 38, but there were other equally beautiful cars in attendance.
Click here to see the AutoWeek article on the Best of France and Italy Show
Attend a track event where everyone wears a big smile. It's the most fun you can have with your clothes on. Check with these local car club links to find a track event near you!
Click here to learn about Mark's trip to the French & Italian Car Show in California.
We have collected several photos over the years of unique, unusual and awesome cars at shows we've attended. Take a look!
