casual car show/concours presentation, too much-too little Options

[1970 Neun vierzehn]

For those of you who display your 914 or 911 or TR-6 or MGA or whatever, just what should be presented, and what can (or should) be left out?

My thinking has that the presentation would typically include that which was delivered with the car when it was new. That would be the owners' manual, maintenance book, dealer directory and tool kit.

An original sales brochure for the model year and/or color chart might be acceptable.

Anything else such as magazines, awards, posters, print media, testimonials, and "cute" automobile trivia are best left at home or in a box, away from the displayed car.

These would be acceptable to have on display, but only if necessary.........

[Pat Garvey]

OK, you had to know I'd add my comments here.

I think Don hit a good note!

In particular, if the event is is a non-judged event (i.e., Peoples Choice, wash & shine, etc.) These events are NOT a concours, and anyone who calls it one is only fooling themselves! At these events the owner is attempting to garner favor with the "non-judges" by showing all the bling he/she can come up with. They want to win, and will show it on the car's resume if they do. Meaningless to me, but draws attention to others. I also think it's tacky, particularly if the "bling" is displayed in portions of the car.

If the event is a true "classic" concours, being judged by knowing judges, I feel that nothing that wasn't delivered with the car should be displayed, and everything should be in its usual place and "as delivered". All cleaning materials should be away from the car, and no further dusting permitted once judging begins on the class. COA is out, unless it's a Parade (it and the PCR's are both nebulus anyway).

If the rules of the "classic" event indicate that "bling" is permitted, so be it. If the rules of the event do not have a "bling" factor, talk to the chairman.

Things have changed with concours. Many are simply car shows. And that's for a reason - no one wants to be a judge or they're too old. Can't tell you how many "classic" concours events I chaired and when experts saw me coming for judges they hid in the bushes. I've done it too. Once you're tagged it's forever. That's why most events are not judges anymore.

So, and this is my opinion only, if it's a "classic" event get the rules amd make that chairman live to them. If it's a people's choice or wash 'n shine event, pull your "bling" out & display it (outside of the car).

The game has changed. The only time you'll see a "classic" concours will be at the Parade, zone events and few regional events. Those will have serious judging.
I don't like it but that's just the way it is now. And it won't go in reverse.

MOAISTI!
Pat