The SEMA Show is huge!
In recent years, the parking lots and even delivery areas have been used for displays. In this post, I'm going to concentrate on the cars outside.
The Source Interlink Group had a diverse display of project cars, located between the halls. I particularly liked this vibrant Mazda RX-4. Great contrast with the Orange and Black.
Under the hood lives a 2JZ!
The famous 'Project X' also reappeared this year. Since its debut in Popular Hot Rodding magazine over 40 years ago, 'X' has become a testbed for different parts and trends. A couple of years ago, GM and the magazine worked together to restore and redesign this iconic car. Today's Project X is powered by a 427 Big Block Crate engine and uses Corvette suspension and other elements of the front end structure.
One of my favourite muscle cars, Bad Penny. We featured this in the early days of Speedhunters.
Located just behind Bad Penny, this really cool Ford. Copper/Orange is still very popular colour choice.
GM's 2nd Gen F-Bodies were everywhere. Here are just three examples. Prices have increased in recent years as 60's Muscle cars become out of reach of most enthusiasts.
I wonder what will be next?
This Firebird has a modern twist to the front end with graphite accents and mesh grille. I like the hood design.
This car took part in the Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational which takes place each year after SEMA. A number of challenges are set including Autocross, Road Race (this Camaro came 3rd), Design, Speed and Stop event and a road rally. Sounds a cool event. (hint hint Mr Gittin, and a reminder I have experience as a navigator LOL)
Back to more modern machines. Lexus were the only OEM who were located outside, in their usual position, between halls.
0-60 magazine presented their GS450 Hybrid. This sedan had 'Super Lap Battle' number panels, so I assume it will be seen in competition. Strange vehicle choice, but I liked the details and the graphics.
Note the subtle green line on the hood. We will talk more about that next time.
Out front, Ford and Monster Energy had a big play area, with Jarod DeAnda as MC.
Ken Block, Justin Pawlak and Vaughn Gittin Jr gave lucky people demo rides in their race cars throughout the show.
Vaughn also brought out the Mustang RTR, from time-to-time.
Alongside, was a Ford Raptor demonstration. I’m not a truck person and I know this isn’t TruckHunters, but I like the detail design of the Raptor and the first truck I'd even consider. I was impressed with the suspension travel on these. No idea if they were stock.
Back to the show cars. This is a different Lincoln Continental to the one Mike Garrett showed earlier in our SEMA reviews, but almost the same colour. A little more chrome on show.
I like the interior and clean integration of iPad.
In my opinion, its a fine line when mixing old and new, but I think this is on the right side of that line. What do you guys think? Do you like builds like this, or Project X with modern elements?
Staying with mixing the old and new, Factory Five had a number of cars at the show including this Type 65 Coupe
...and their '33 Coupe. Unusual colour combination, but it works. I love the inset rear tyre/wheel fitments.
I ran out of time checking the outside collection this year, but its always very diverse. Just look at the vehicles surrounding this Mitsubishi Evo IX.
Where else would you see that?
Next week, I'll take one last look inside the SEMA halls. Maybe I should have used one of these to get around.
- Andy Blackmore
