Classic Car Lovers Prepare for Big Show

PLYMOUTH, MI -- (WWJ) Sports cars, pickups and vintage dirt bikes will be displayed along with elegant Deusenberg's and other classic vehicles at this year's Concours d'Elegance of America.

"It's probably one of the most diversified shows we've ever had," said Concours chairman Larry Moss.

Organizers of the annual classic car shows brought about a dozen vehicles to a mini-version of the event today.

This year's Concours will be held July 27th at the Inn at St John's in Plymouth. Moss says they will have nearly 300 classic vehicles on display.

"The gamut runs from pre-1960 motorcycles to vintage drag bikes, to the Virgil Exner exhibit to sports cars, the evolution of sports cars, with some forty sports cars."

There will be a number of other displays, including vehicles from a rare private collection that's not often shown in public.

The Concours will also mark the public debut of a completely restored 1818 Cadillac that served at the front during World War I.

"It's a story about Detroit," said Mark Gessler, president of the Historic Vehicles Association. "It's a story about the people of Detroit and their role in bringing that war a swift end."

The Cadillac is the fourth vehicle to be honored with a special historic designation.

The Concours preview featured a number of vehicles that are special in their own unique way. Barry Wolk brought his classic 1955 Porsche Continental.

"It's very special to me because my wife told me she wanted one when we were 16, 17 years old," said Wolk, who was finally able to buy the vehicle when he was 52.

In addition to the main car show on Sunday, July 27th, the Concours d'Elegance of America features a variety of other events during the weekend, including an automotive art exhibit, a classic car auction as well as various dinners and receptions.

Information is available at www.concoursusa.com.

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