Motortopia blogs, videos and photo albums are proof that we love car shows!

What’s not to like? Whether you travel a long distance and spend a day or two, or just spend a few hours at a local show, nothing is more satisfying. Lots of great rides to check out, talking about cars with like-minded people, the artery-hardening food…these all add up to an awesome day. This year my biggest thrill (besides the drag racing, if it’s there) is digging in greasy parts-filled containers and piles of rusty parts laying in the grass at the swap meet section. If I come away with a sought after part in good enough condition to put on my muscle car, well…it’s almost better than winning the lottery.

Just last year, I didn’t own a muscle car that needed discontinued parts. My major purpose for attending a car show then (besides the drag racing, of course) was to find my dream car. Are you looking for your own muscle machine? You might not think of a car show as a venue for car shopping. But for many reasons, it’s the best place.

People at car shows LOVE cars. If a car is for sale in the car corral at a car show, the owner is usually a car nut who’s cared for the classic he’s selling. He has specific information about the car and general information about make and model. A seller is happy to talk to you even if you don’t buy their car. To be honest, there are also fly-by-night car dealers, sleazy people, and junk dealers at car shows selling off less than desirable cars. But for the most part, the people selling cars at a car show are decent folks.

Car shows provide a large selection of cars for sale. Classic car shopping through magazine ads or on the internet is time-consuming; it’s hard to find even one or two cars you like in your price range. Depending on size, a car show offers many possible purchases in one spot at the same time. Besides, it’s just plain fun checking out the prices and condition of cars for sale in the car corral, even if you’re not in the market.

Another benefit of shopping for your next toy at a car show is the contacts you make. Don’t see what you want? Gather business cards and flyers from sellers and contact them later to check their inventory. People you talk with may know someone who has what you’re looking for in their backyard or garage. Give them your contact info. Don’t underestimate offhand conversations; sometimes they are the final link to finding exactly what you are looking for!

Car show season is on. Major muscle car markets report sales and prices are down. Insane gas prices and the slumping economy affect both. It might be your perfect opportunity to score a great deal. Where will you be shopping for your next garage piece this weekend?

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