Contributed by Ed Sindoni
Talk about an event with something for everyone, this is it. Five people can go to this, split up once you get there, and focusing on your interest, never see one another until you’re ready to leave. Let’s take a quick look at what was offered. Airplane rides were offered in a Stearman bi-plane and for some extra $, some aerobatic thrills could be added.
The Corvette Fun Field was packed with both newer rides and the older solid axle classics.
Several area clubs participated in this. All registered Vettes were vying for the Celebrity Choice Awards.
Imperial Mustangs of Polk County held their 22nd “Mustangs & Mustangs” ….Legends Havin’ Fun event within this event. The real plus here was having your Mustang photographed with a World War II Mustang P-51.
Joy and Dana Cheatham of Lakeland (FL) proudly displayed their 1970 Mach 1 Sports Roof Mustang. The medium blue metallic 1970 Ford has its original 351 Cleveland engine and drive train. On July 7, 1970, this vehicle rolled off of the assembly line, and three owners later, ended up in the Cheatham’s garage.
Each of the previous owners also kept the Mach 1 garaged, and only drove it in good weather. Dana purchased the car in August of 2011 with 54,000 miles on it. Included with the purchase was the original build sheet and keys. All body panels are original, as is most of the interior with the exception of the door panels and dash pad. Slight modifications to this machine include: 2 ¼ inch dual exhaust system with original steel chrome tips, front power disc conversion kit from Stainless Steel Brakes, Inc., valve covers, and functional “Shaker” hood scoop. As beautiful as it photographs, a new paint job is in the foreseeable future.
“Wild Tang” was brought to the show from Odessa (FL) by Mary “Lou” McCarty . The 2018 GT convertible premium is powered by a 5.0 V8 and 10 speed automatic. This Mustang’s names originates from its Orange Fury color which contrasts nicely with the ceramic leather interior. Subtle modifications include painted to match calibers and mud flaps. There is
also an invisible bra protecting the front and side mirrors. The dyno at Vortex Motorsport of Tampa clocked this car at 151 mph in 7th gear. Fast yes, but also 22 mpg in the city and her daily driver!
Prior to this Mustang, Mary had a 2017 4 cylinder turbo. She had bought this as a “grief” car having lost her husband of 50 years who had worked at Ford for 33 years. Wanting something faster, louder, and more powerful, she traded the ‘17 for “Wild Tang”, which already has been an award winner.
Also available was the Collector Car Cruise-In, who were eligible for “Auto Fest Favorites” awards.
The Midway Automotive Flea Market and Car Corral offered many hard to find parts, vintage signs, and collectibles which all of us need to finish off that special project. And still yet, seminars and the vehicle auction add to this multi-day extravaganza.
Click HERE to see all of the pictures.
