How to Display a Classic Car at a Car Show
You’ve spent years restoring that vintage vehicle, and now all that hard work and extra expense paid off. Wouldn’t it be great to show it off? Fortunately, with the warm weather comes vintage car shows, cruise nights and other opportunities to let your car strut its stuff. Here are a few tips on how to display a classic car at a car show to ensure it stays safe and looking like the day it left the factory.
Last-Minute Grooming Pays Off
Perhaps you already spend an hour (or more) a day looking after your vintage vehicle, inspecting every nook and cranny. Spend some time the night before giving it one last look before you hit the road or transport it to the show. Clean the entire car, beginning with under the hood. Use only products intended for cars—not household cleaners that can damage the finish—and wipe it down and dry it with a microfiber cloth. Remove your tires and clean them thoroughly, inside and out, treat them with conditioner, and check the pressure. Additionally, ensure the wheel wells are pristine. Vacuum and clean the interior, too. Finally, give it a new coat of wax for extra shine. Bring extra cleaning supplies to the show, just in case!
Drive Carefully
That should probably go without saying, but take extra care in driving or transporting your car to the show. If you plan to hire a transportation service, be sure to check their record and reviews and get references from those who’ve used them before. Your insurance company may also be able to recommend a reputable transporter with liability insurance should something go wrong. Enclosed trailers are best and will protect your car from the elements and other factors. If you're towing your car yourself, be sure your trailer is properly hitched and equipped with an anti-sway system. Check your brake lights—and remember, you’re transporting your car, not racing it. Be careful!
Show It Off
Whether you’re competing for a trophy or just displaying your car for bragging rights, put on a proper showing. Provide before, during and after shots of your car’s restoration. Set up signs outlining the car’s history and your own, and list information for all the gearheads viewing your vehicle. Open the hood to let attendees ogle the engine and roll down the windows and open the doors so they can peep inside. Go full geek by surrounding the car with old advertisements; you could even dress up in the fashion of the car’s day.
Keep It Covered
When considering how to display a classic car at a car show, don’t forget to protect it, especially if the event is outside. Buy a canopy tent that allows people to view it while keeping the sun and any potential precipitation from damaging the vehicle. You’ll appreciate the shelter as well after spending several hours in the hot sun. Set up a folding chair underneath, bring a cooler of food and drinks and get ready to chat proudly with others about your vintage car!