Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals

REDLINE 7000, “HIGH PERFORMANCE ROCK ‘N ROLL” ADDED TO MCACN SHOW!

2011-11-08T20:42:00.000-08:00

We are always looking for new ways to liven up the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals show. We are proud to announce LIVE rock and roll Saturday night, provided by some real “car guys,” REDLINE 7000. These guys know how to rock and have a whole lot of fun doing it! You will recognize one of the members, John Kraman, as he is a member of the Mecum Auctions team.

REDLINE 7000 has played all across the country and warmed up for bands like Blood, Sweat and Tears, Joan Jett and Leon Russell. “We aint no wedding band,” stated one of the members. Their unique high performance renditions of rock classics along with some great original material is sure to be a blast. The show will kick off at 6pm in the Ballroom/Awards area at the far end of Hall A, also known as “the big room.”

To make things even more interesting, we will also be holding a drawing for FREE Autographed Fender Strat Guitar! Yep...one lucky partier will be taking home an awesome momento of the show. This guitar will be autographed by a variety of our Automotive Celebrities. Sure to be a keeper! Now here’s the catch, (there is always a catch, right?) the winner MUST BE PRESENT when John Kraman draws the winning entry Saturday night during the REDLINE 7000 show. Yep, anyone present at the show can enter, but when it comes time to pull the winner, you better be there, or we will keep digging through the entries until the lucky new owner steps up!

2011-10-27T11:35:00.000-07:00

HISTORICAL DAY 2 CAR TO BE PREMIERED
BY MCACN SPONSOR MUSCLE CAR DESIGNS

At MCACN, we pride ourselves in being among the first, if not the first, to properly recognize real Day 2 cars. What is a Day 2 car? (AKA Period Correct) That would be cars that were modified right after being sold “back in the day.” Recognizing the lack of proper concours style judging for these cars, we introduced our intense “Day 2 Concours” judging categories when we launched the show in 2009. No longer would Yenko’s, Baldwin-Motion, Nickey, Mr. Norms and other cool cars that were modded when new be docked for the changes made right after their owners took delivery. The key to this is that these mods must be period correct, meaning no Radial T/A’s, no modern ignitions, no yellow spark plug wires and absolutely no late model drive-trains!

Which brings us to our subject car; this 1969 Nova was born as a Cortez Silver Nova SS with an L78 396/375 under the hood. Immediately after taking delivery, the car went to Bill Thomas/Race Cars. Bill Thomas/Race Cars is the place that back in late ‘66 teamed up with Nickey Chevrolet to drop a 427 into the new Camaro, thus launching the Dealer Super Car concept. Bill worked directly with the factory on numerous engineering and performance related projects dating back to 1957. In the late 60’s, he opened up Bill Thomas/Race Cars, quickly establishing themselves as the “go-to” shop for ultimate Chevy performance!

Back to the car; this wild Nova is currently owned by Dean Klein and it was recently restored to period-perfection by MCACN sponsor Muscle Car Designs in Minooka, IL. Bob Adams and his crew spent countless hours researching this car, and the results are absolutely amazing. High Performance mods performed by Bill Thomas/Race Cars include a 12.5 to 1, 467 cubic inch 427, a Holley 3916 3-barrel carb, Bill Thomas headers, a Lakewood bell housing, reinforced axle housing and wild and original vintage Cheater slicks and mags and much more. This is a REAL-DEAL Day 2 masterpiece!

Be sure to check this beautiful automobile out in person when it is shown to the public for the first time, November 19-20, in the Muscle Car Designs display. Thanks to Arvid Svendsen for the great photos of this car and our thanks go out to Dean and Bob for sharing this historical Super Car with us for its public debut.

2011-10-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

LIKE us on Facebook, and complete 2011 Sweepstakes entry for your chance to win FREE tickets to the show, or one of our Ultimate VIP Packages including lodging, tickets and MCACN Wearables!

http://www.facebook.com/MCACN

Rescue 1 Fire Safety For Kids, Lets Give Them a Hand!

2011-10-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

At the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Show, we think about kids. We have a scavenger hunt just for kids, a model make-and-take, door prize drawings for kids only and even our Charity Auction benefits kids! 100% of our Charity Auction proceeds go directly to Rescue 1 Fire Safety for Kids. This is a group of firefighters who have developed educational materials and programs to help teach kids the fundamentals of fire safety in a fun and interactive way. You can help support this worthy cause by either donating items to our charity auctions that take place at the MCACN Show, or by bidding and buying items in the auction. Help our brave heroes, who see the tragedy of fire deaths, injuries and damage every day to keep kids safe! For more information on how to donate items for the charity auction, or on bidding at the auctions contact Bob Ashton at bashton426@gmail.com

For More information on Rescue 1 Fire Safety for Kids,

Check out their website..http://www.firesafetyforkids.org/

Corvette Central to Host Seminar at MCACN III

2011-10-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where all the electronics were on your C4 Corvette? Chris Petris,
Contributing Tech Editor of Corvette Enthusiast and Corvette Fever magazines
will take you on a guided tour of the typical trouble areas on the 1984-1989
Corvette at the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals show, in the Corvette Central display Saturday and Sunday, November 19 & 20, 2011. The C4 was cutting edge technology
with many hidden components. Corvette Central efforts will save you considerable
time and dollars with the knowledge you can gain from their 1988 Cutaway
Corvette and this free seminar. http://www.corvettecentral.com

Mid America Motorworks to Install Exhaust Systems at MCACN III

2011-09-19T18:23:00.000-07:00

Many of us have seen it...perhaps it was at the Mid America Motorworks Campus this past weekend for Corvette Funfest. Perhaps it was at Bloomington Gold, or maybe at Corvettes at Carlisle...Mid America Motorworks staff installing brand new performance exhaust systems on Corvettes. In 2011 at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center, you will see it again! Mid America Motorworks be onsite installing high performance exhaust systems for pre-registered customers during the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Show, November 19-20. What better way to obtain a great new exhaust system? As you walk around the show floor checking out the other 500+ cars, your Corvette will be getting new pipes! We are finalizing details for a very special VIP package for 10-12 pre-registered folks, so if you have been thinking about a new system, e-mail Bob for details. bashton426@gmail.com

Thanks to Mid America Motorworks for their continued support and for innovative changes that will make the MCACN Show even more fun and convenient for our participants!

Model Car Contest & Revell Make & Take at MCACN III

2011-09-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Modeler Car Builders!

We are happy to announce that we are again joining forces with the C.A.R.S. In Miniature group and Revell Models to host our Second Annual Model Car Contest at the FNBNY Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals show, November 19-20, 2011

Our show is the world’s largest all indoor specialty show devoted to the countrys best and rarest Muscle Cars, Dealer-built Supercars, (think Yenko, Mr. Norm’s and Nickey) and Corvettes, held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. In 2010, we had over 500 cars on display along with nearly 200 automotive vendor spots, and we launched our very first Model Car Contest. The C.A.R.S. In Miniature group ran this “show within a show” for us and it was an instant success. For 2011, we are geared up for an even bigger and better contest.

Trophies will be awarded in several categories for kids 12 and under, Senior category, (age 13-17) and Adults. We will also have classes for diorama’s and various other entrants. Kids will receive a FREE model car kit just for entering and best of all, contest entry for everyone is totally FREE with your paid admission. Bring as many models as you like and join in the fun!

In addition to the contest, we will also be hosting the Revell Models “Make and Take” which introduces our great hobby to the younger generation. C.A.R.S. In Miniature members will be on hand to assist the kids in building their models and when they are done, they can take them home. This is also FREE, compliments of Revell Models.

For more information, see www.mcacn.com or call C.A.R.S. In Miniature contest host Craig Sincora @ csincora@d125.org or Nick at itsagas1320@att.net. For more show information, call Bob Ashton at 586-549-5291 or e-mail bashton426@gmail.com.

Sincerely

Bob Ashton

MCACN Managing Member

THE DIAMANTE; WORLD'S MOST VALUABLE HEMI MUSCLE CAR TO BE FEATURED AT FNBNY MCAN SHOW

2011-09-01T14:35:00.001-07:00

We are honored to announce that we will be featuring what many consider to be the world's most valuable Hemi Mopar at this years show. The Diamante started life as a triple black JS27R, which you Mopar folks know means a Hemi Challenger R/T convertible. What would happen after it left the assembly line is nothing short of amazing. First, it became The Yellow Jacket. This low-slung screaming yellow Roadster, first shown at the Detroit Auto Show in 1970, would be shown as a factory concept car for just one season. With response being not quite what Mother Mopar had hoped for, it went back for a complete, and somewhat more radical, makeover. What would come out for the '71 show season was what would become one of the longest lasting, most recognized Concept Cars ever to come out of Detroit, dubbed The Diamante. In addition to the Hemi, it also featured a 4-speed and a Dana Super Track Pack with 4:10 gears and the very first Shaker hood! Guess they wanted to be sure they were never late for an appearance. Anyway, the car would be shown nationwide for, get this...three more years.

This is unprecedented in the Concept Car world and to this day, it remains as the longest period for a factory show car to be nationally displayed. But wait...there's more; this car is also the very last factory Hemi Muscle Car sold by Chrysler, as they kept it until 1978! Anyway, after being sold off and spending some time in Joe Bortz "Blue Suede Shoes" collection, Mopar aficionado and collector Steven Juliano became the new caretaker several years ago. After extensive research, he returned it to its "as it was in 1971" glory.

This car is a true piece of automotive history and it has not been seen in many years. It is possible that this may be the only public viewing of this car, and we are pleased to say Steven Juliano will be joining us to share the amazing story. You will find this car right up front in one of our "hot spots". There is a whole lot more to this story and Stevens' research has uncovered all kinds of interesting facts. But then, if you know Steven...you already knew that! Don't miss this opportunity to again see real Muscle Car History in the making at the FNBNY Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, November 19-20. If this doesn't get your heart beating a little faster, you're reading the wrong e-mail!

Mecum Auctions Presents Monterey 2011

2011-08-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

In Monterey California this weekend things are happening! Our newest MCACN show sponsor, The Mecum Auction Company, is hosting the Daytime Auction at the Hyatt Regency- Monterey, with hundreds of outstanding cars, boats and motorcycles. The Mecum crew once again raises the bar, offering some of the rarest and most desirable collectible automobiles, boats and motorcycles ever offered at auction. The auction has already started, and if you can't make it out there, register to bid on-line and be sure to watch the live coverage on-line.

CARLISLE EVENTS JOINS FAMILY OF MCACN SPONSORS!

2011-06-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

The summer brings us countless events where we can show off our "toys", renew frindships and meet new friends. Our cars are the "great equalizer" because no matter what make or model of car we own, we all share the same passion! The MCACN crew will be travelling to countless events this summer showing, racing and just enjoying our own collectible cars. As you know, all of us live and breath this stuff!

Some of the very best events in the country are hosted by the Carlisle Events team in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. If it has wheels, (even if it is only two wheels), they have an event for you, and they are real Pro's who get it!

We are proud to announce that the Carlisle Events team will be presenting FOUR very special awards at our show, November 19-20, 2011. These will include a Carlisle Events Best Ford/Mercury, Best Mopar, Best Chevy, (non Corvette) and Best Corvette. Beautiful plaques will be presented by Rick Markko, Carlisle Events Manager.

We are proud to be affiliated with one of the country's premiere event producers and we encourage you to attend the awesome Carlisle events that will be taking place this season. For a complete list of Carlisle events, registration information, show features, maps and more, go to their website; www.carlislevents.com and tell them the MCACN crew sent ya!

SNAKES ALIVE; SHELBY SNAKEPIT III COMES ALIVE!

2011-06-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

To say we are going to host an amazing display of Carroll Shelby's finest creations is, well...an understatement. Seeing just one original Cobra is a treat, but as of today, we have confirmed THREE of them for the 2011 show. An original owner 289, the outrageous Dragonsnake factory racer and a beautiful 427 S/C!

But wait...that's not all! We have a Prototype '66 GT350 #SFM6S001, a one of four '66 Shelby GT350 Convertible, (which is the only red one!), the very special "Coral-Snake" '68 GT500KR, the amazing 1967/68 Shelby GT500 Convertible that is the actual pre-production advertising car and a fresh GT500 that is being restored as we speak. And we're not through yet....more to follow!

Leading Ladies FNBNY MCACN Awards

2011-05-07T07:47:00.000-07:00

Some of the many special awards offered at the FNBNY Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Show are the Leading Lady Awards. Potential winners would fall under the categories of Leading Lady GM, Leading Lady Corvette, Leading Lady Mopar, Leading Lady Ford and depending on other entries, other categories.

In order to qualify, a car entry must be owned by a woman. In order to prove eligibility, a copy of title or registration must be submitted. At the 2010 FNBNY MCACN show award winners were:
Leading Lady General Motors- Holly Overton 1979 Chevrolet Camaro
Leading Lady Mopar- Linda Borzych 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona
Leading Lady Ford- Sue Willis 1970 Ford Torino Cobra

The gorgeous 1969 Pontiac GTO Convertible pictured above is owned by Liz Wojtas and is a contender for the 2011 Leading Lady GM Award at the 2011 First National Bank of New York Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Show.

If you are a woman interested in showing your muscle car at the show, contact Bob Ashton, show manager at 586-549-5291 or email at bashton426@gmail.com for more information on how to qualify for this award!

Happy Mothers Day from the FNBNY MCACN Team!

Nickey Chicago Goes Topless!

2011-04-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

As I am sure you know, Nickey Chicago always has new things in the works and we are proud to be able to have them as a MCACN Sponsor. Their continued support since our inception has allowed us to quickly establish our show as The Premier All Indoor specialty event for the Muscle Car & Corvette enthusiast.

Many have been asking me about what's happening at the Nickey Chicago St. Charles, Illinois headquarters, and what they will be featuring at the 2011 FNBNY Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals show, November 19-20. Well...here is a sneak-peek for you! I can't promise that you will see this particular car, as it may be in the garage of the new owner, but I can assure you that you will see a 2011 Nickey Super Camaro Convertible in their display! (perhaps yours?)

This rendering gives you an idea of what the #1 Nickey Camaro Convertible will look like, as it is in production as we speak. Special features will include a full Pedders suspension package, Pace Car inspired stripes, a beautiful Stinger II hood and being a Stage 2 S car, it will have a full performance exhaust, cam and heads, an Edelbrock Supercharger and much more. As if that isn't enough, Beth tells us she has found the perfect orange Houndstooth material for the interior!

Cruising in a Gen 5 Camaro is one thing, but imagine if you will, going Topless in a Serialized Limited Edition Nickey Super Camaro Convertible! Does it get any better? Check out www.camaro5.com and search "Convertible Nickey" for build pics and updates and see www.nickeychicagoinc.com for more information on Nickey Chicago.

Thanks and please remember to help us spread the word about the FNBNY Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals show. For additional updates, please follow us on facebook as I do updates nearly every day.

Bob Ashton

RELIABLE CARRIER'S; THE OFFICIAL CARRIER OF THE FNBNY MCACN SHOW!

2011-04-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to be working with Reliable Carrier's, Inc. who return as "The Official Carrier" of the MCACN show. With a fleet of over 300 beautiful bright orange trucks, Reliable Carrier's Inc. can transport your "baby" with the care that you expect. Since transporting collector cars is their primary focus, they know what it takes to get your car to and from its destination with the care and handling you demand.

Shipping with Reliable Carrier's, Inc will get you, the MCACN participant, some very special and exclusive perks. This includes a VIP Onsite Concierge, "1st-in" early access, guaranteed indoor loading and unloading and more. Call Reliable Carrier's General Mananger Bob Sellers directly for all the information you need to secure your spot. 1-800-521-6393, extension 6262.

KEISLER ENGINEERING XP HEMI ON CHOP CUT REBUILD!

2011-04-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

We love being able to work with the best of the best when it comes to our sponsors, and their passion for the hobby is shown in many ways. For Keisler Engineering, it is shown with their "hands-on" approach. In this case, CEO Shafi Keisler came across an amazing car that was never supposed to be. But then, if you are a Mopar fan, you know to never say never!

Check out this one-off 1969 Hemi Charger on the Speed Channel show, Chop, Cut, Rebuild and see how Shafi and the crew resurrected a car that was considered too far gone to restore. For more information, check out http://ccr.tv/chop-cut-rebuild-presents-the-keisler-xp-hemi and then slide over to the Keisler Engineering website to see a wide variety of components for your Mopar, Ford or GM product and remember to say THANKS to Shafi and his crew for their continued support of the MCACN show!

MCACN III CORVETTE CENTRAL TRIPLE DIAMOND UPDATE

2011-03-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

We are truly honored to have many of the country's finest Corvettes, which have already achieved NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold status, as part of the FNBNY Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals show. In 2010, we played host to the first production L88, an amazing black beauty that was shown by Pro Team of Napolean, Ohio. For 2011, we will host what is considered the "Last L88 Convertible", a show-stopping 1969 red Roadster that will be shown by owner Tom Marcucci from Michigan.

We would like to express our sincere appeciation to the owners/caretakers of these fine automobiles for the commitment and effort taken to share these amazing pieces of Corvette history. We look forward to hosting a truly amazing display November 19-20, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, (greater Chicago), Illinois.

Muscle Car Restoration and Design Resto Featured in Muscle Car Review

2011-03-12T09:39:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Rick Nelson and the team at Muscle Car Restoration and Design for grabbing the Cover and an excellent feature inside of the March 2011 issue of Muscle Car Review magazine! Muscle Car Restoration and Designs recently joined the MCACN Show as a sponsor (Thanks Rick and Annie!) See more about Muscle Car Restoration and Designs at their website and more on this car!

This issue also has an article on Ted Stephens 1000 pt Charger from the 2010 MCACN Show! This car was restored by another MCACN sponsor, The Finer Details, of Danville, Indiana.

This just goes to show, when we say we feature, (and work with) the best, we aren't kidding!

Reliable Carriers...the Official Transporter of the MCACN Show!

2011-03-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED AT MCACN THIS YEAR!

2011-02-17T14:29:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing I know about making any public show consistantly interesting, it is to make sure to have some unexpected surprises. Sure...there are features that we all like to see each year and some features that are just so cool, you demand to see more, (like our Shelby Snakepit and Baldwin-Motion Madness displays!), but even then, we want to be sure they are fresh and most importantly, exciting.

With that being said, I want to tell you about something that we will have at the show that is truly unique and incredibly interesting. One of the very first entries we recieved is for the real-deal Ramo Stott Nascar Superbird. Yep...you read that right; the real thing! With all of the re-bodies and regular updates that are made to race cars, who would think that a 1970's vintage racer like this would have survived, let alone wearing its' original body panels!

We talked to the current owner/caretaker, Doug Schellinger, at the Chicagoland Mopar Connection swap meet last weekend and he is really excited about sharing this historical automobile with MCACN participants and spectators. And if you want to know the full story, you'll be able to get it, as Doug is also the head of the Daytona Superbird Auto Club. Check out www.superbirdclub.com for more pics and some great wing car stuff.

But that's not all...stay tuned as we are working on several other related features that will ensure that this year, we will again be making history!

MCACN VINTAGE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM EXPANDS FOR 2011

2011-02-08T05:12:00.000-08:00

The Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals crew is again on the leading edge with expansion of their popular Vintage Certification program. Led by noted Camaro authority, Steve Shauger and a crew of marque experts well versed in original, unrestored cars, this program is one of the most popular features of the show.

"For 2011, we will expand with several notable Pontiacs and an amazing 400 mile Dodge Challenger T/A" Shauger said. "We included a beautiful 1972 ZR1 Corvette last year which was a huge hit for spectators, and we are honored to be able to again expand our program with more historical original automobiles" he stated.

Devoted to preservation instead of restoration, the MCACN Vintage Certification program is an intense judging and inspection process where unrestored cars are pored over by a team of acknowledged authorities who come in from across the country. Only a select group of cars are accepted into this elite group,

For more information on the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals Vintage Certification program, see www.mcacn.com or e-mail Steve Shauger at vintagecert@optimum.net

Beautiful and Rare LS6 Corvette Featured at 2011 FNBNY MCACN Show.

2011-01-31T07:33:00.001-08:00

The best of the best is the focus of the Invitational displays at the FNBNY Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals. That is exactly what we have here with the beautiful LS6 Corvette that will be shown by Texas resident Gerald Pockrus.

Restored by MCACN Sponsor D&M Corvettes Specialsits in Downers Grove, Illinois, it is one of just 188 produced in 1971 and one of a handful painted in the eye catching shade of Sunflower Yellow.

In addition to being part of our "LS6 Corvette Invitational" display, Mr. Pockrus will also be competing for the coveted Corvette Central Triple Diamond award. Reserved for only those Corvettes that have already achieved both NCRS and Bloomington Gold certification, it truly represents one of the finest LS6 Corvettes in existence.

Thanks go out to Mr. & Mrs. Pockrus for joining us with this beautiful C3!

2010 FNBNY MCACN

2011-01-13T08:08:00.001-08:00

Here is an awesome video of the 2010 FNBNY MCACN show and a special Nickey Chicago unveiling created by our friends at The Craftsmen Experience. Many thanks to Nick Cosentino for making this happen!

MUSCLE CAR & CORVETTE NATIONALS PROUDLY PRESENTS OUR TITLE SPONSOR; FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF NEW YORK

2010-10-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

Sponsorship is a key ingredient for continued success of any event, but especially a world class indoor car show like MCACN. Bluntly stated, without sponsors there would be no show, for sponsors help shoulder the cost of everything from the venue to subsidizing entry fees to make it affordable for our entrants. It is because of this that we are thrilled to announce a unique partnership with our new title sponsor, First National Bank of New York.

First National Bank of New York is headquartered in New York, but its vision and capability extends across the nation. More importantly, they share our passion and enthusiasm for the collector car hobby. We at MCACN are proud to be affiliated with such a fine institution. The FNBNY team isn’t that of just great bankers, many are collectors of Corvettes and muscle cars themselves. This shows through in the commitment they have made to the future of the MCACN show. We hope you find this a reason to learn more about FNBNY and to grow with them as they grow with us.

With creative financing options created by car guys for car guys, FNBNY is ready to help you bring home your next collector car. Be sure to spend some time with the FNBNY representatives who will be joining us. They are ready to discuss with you how to make your purchase affordable.

First National Bank of New York – the First and Only Bank you will ever need!

MCACN Muscle Car Nats Triple Diamond Corvette Competition

2010-09-13T08:07:00.000-07:00

The CORVETTE CENTRAL TRIPLE DIAMOND Display and Competion will be raising the bar for the country's finest Corvettes with an amazing all indoor display to be featured at the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals. With entrants already recieved from nine states for Corvettes ranging from 1953-1995, it is sure to once again be a huge hit at the Second edition of the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals show, November 20-21, 2010.

Collectors who are familiar with intense judging and high standards know that the Triple Diamond award, launched in 2009 at the inaugural MCACN show in Rosemont, Illinois, is a must have. A highly experienced team of Corvette experts, led by Judging Chairman Bill Braun, (who is also the Illinois NCRS Chapter Chairman), pore over every square inch of these restored to original and original Corvettes, documenting and verifying that they are presented in "as delivered from the factory" condition. NCRS and Bloomington Gold certification is required in advance for acceptence into the Triple Diamond display and competition, assuring only the best of the best. "Our strict guidelines and stringent judging standards mean this is indeed reserved for the finest restored and original Corvettes", stated MCACN Managing Member, Bob Ashton.

Corvette Central of Sawyer, Michigan signed on as the "Official Sponsor" for the 2010 Triple Diamond display and competition. They will be on hand with an all new display, offering their individual catalogs for each generation Corvette and talking about their wide range of Corvette parts and accessories. They will also have knowledgable staff on hand showing some of their newest offerings.

Spectators will be treated to a virtual "History of the Corvette", with cars on display in chronological order. Those able to achieve Triple Diamond status will recieve beautiful engraved and personalized Crystal awards, along with entry into the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals Registry. These exclusive awards are coveted among collectors and assure quality for future buyers. This is truly an award reserved for an elite group of competitors who have made a real commitment to the hobby.

The Second Annual Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals, held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, (greater Chicago), Illinois, features nearly 400,000 square feet of all indoor exhibit space. More than 500 of the country's best Muscle Cars, Dealer-built Supercars and Corvettes along with an all automotive swap meet and a variety of local and national vendors will be featured.

For more information, visit the MCACN website at www.mcacn.com or call Bob Ashton, Managing Member; (586) 549-5291.

Bob Ashton
Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, LLC
Managing Member
www.mcacn.com

MCACN Updates from the Road .....

2010-06-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

Bob and several members of the MCACN Crew have been traveling almost non-stop since the weather broke to “spread the word” about the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals show this November.

We are driving back home from the Hot Rod Power Tour as this blog is being written to update you on latest MCACN News! Over 3,000 miles down and about 400 to go. Over 1,000 MCACN flyers distributed!

Our 2010 Car Show Guide will be bigger and better than ever. The summer edition will be 48 pages long and include contributions from many nationally recognized authors including noted automotive author Colin Comer, (Shelby authority and author), Martyn Schorr of Baldwin-Motion Fame, Sam Griffith, who is a contributor to Hemmings Muscle Machines, Rob Wolf of Mopar Collectors Guide and more. Our first run of the magazine will be released in mid-July. We want to include stories on as many of the feature cars and special displays as possible, as well as the latest news about our awesome sponsors, and of course promotions for our many quality vendors. This FREE publication will be a keeper and a great introduction to the 2010 show.

We have a limited amount of ad space available. E-mail Bob asap at bashton426@gmail.com or call him at 586-549-5291 if you would like to include an ad for your business or service in the 2010 MCACN Car Show Guide. Don’t know how to create an ad? No problem, we can create an ad for you at no additional cost. Contact Bob for details.

This is a very busy week for the MCACN Crew. We will be paying a visit to Scott and Jerry Kohn of Corvette Central this week and we will be attending the 18th Annual Oldsmobile Homecoming in Lansing Michigan this Saturday, June 19th Then on Sunday June 20th, Bob will be coordinating three classes in the prestigious Eyes on Design Show in St. Clair Shores Michigan. See Stefano Bimbi of Nickey Chicago with the # 1 Gen 5 Nickey Camaro at the Eyes on Design Show along with John Tinberg who will be showing his Nickey inspired ’55 straight axle Chevy, Rick Campbell, who will be showing his ’69 Boss 302, and Roger Nelson and Terry Weiner with their ‘70 and ‘71 AMC Javelins, that you will remember from our inaugural show.

Please Note; if you are wondering if I am some idiot who uses his laptop while driving, be assured I am not. I am telling Vicki what to write to “rough” it in, and now we have stopped at a rest area in Florence, Kentucky, where I am finishing it up.

See the MCACN Crew on the road...

INCREDIBLE "CLASS OF 1970" INVITATIONAL DISPLAYS TO HIGHLIGHT MCACN II

2010-05-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

The response to our "Class of 1969" Invitational display for the inaugural MCACN show was nothing short of amzing, so for 2010, we have decided to step things up by featuring TWO circles for our "Class of 1970" Invitational display.

One will feature Hardtops while the second will feature Convertibles.

These are truly the finest and rarest examples from a pinnacle year and they are coming in from across the country to be a part of the very best All Indoor specialty show that is devoted to Muscle Cars, Dealer-built Supercars and Corvettes.

Starting with a wish list, the MCACN members have already secured the following cars for the hardtop circle; a one-off Boss 429 Mustang, a Buick GSX Stage 1 with amazing Chicago roots, an ultra rare RT/SE Hemi Challenger, a 6,200 original mile Ram Air III Trans Am, a Superbird with a story that is almost unbelievable, and a 429 CJ Torino that was rescued from behind a a Tennessee business.

Our convertible circle will be equally as impressive with a national award winning one-off Buick Stage 1, an impeccable 440+6 Cuda, a fine W-30 442, a real-deal GTO Judge and what may be the best fully documented LS-6 Chevelle in existance.

When it comes to quality and rarity, these circles will be unsurpassed. This is an excellent opportunity to view some of the most desired muscle machines ever built. Many have never been shown in the Chicago area and they all have amazing history.

NATIONAL MEDIA COVERS MCACN!

2010-02-27T05:37:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled that the national media has really been great to MCACN! The list of magazines that have covered the show keeps growing. So far, we have been featured in the following publications;

Gearhead News; December/January 2010
Chevy & Corvette Trader; February 2010
Chevy Enthuisaist; February 2010
Musclecar Enthusiast, March 2010
Vette Vues; March 2010
Muscle Car Review; March 2010
Mopar Enthusiast; April 2010
Corvette Enthusiast; May 2010

Whew...this is great! Congrats to all of you who have cars in these neat features. I know of several others that are coming up, but I'll leave that for later.

I would like to extend my sincrere Thanks to Kurt and April Miller, Bonnie & Bill Wolf, Tom & Kelly Glatch, John Gunnell and Arvid Svenson for the coverage and for helping us spread the word and also, to our fantastic sponsors who allow us to host the best all indoor specialty show devoted to the world's finest Muscle Cars, Dealer-built Supercars and Corvettes.

Registration is now OPEN for show cars, swap space and commercial space and we have some great Sponsor opportunities also available!

Don't forget, we'll be at the BOP Swap Meet and Car Corral at the DuPage Fairgrounds March 28, 2010, so stop by and see us. We will be taking applications at the show!

THANKS:

Bob Ashton
Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, LLC
Managing Member
www.mcacn.com

Here we go!

2009-11-19T20:44:00.000-08:00

Join us in Rosemont Illinois at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center for the Inaugural Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Show. Saturday hours are 9am-9pm and Sunday 9 am-6pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and children 12 and under are FREE! Bring the kids and play the scavenger hunt, see Santa (bring a new unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and get a FREE photo with Santa!) See the Rescue One Fire Safety for Kids Charity Auction, have a famous automotive author sign a book, see an automotive celebrity and of course...cars. well over 500 show cars. Shelbys (Including several Cobras), L88 Corvettes, Rare Cars from 1969 (like a Trans Am convertible 1 of 8 produced), and naturally Nickey Chevy Cars VS MR. Norms Mopar Cars...Lots of shopping at our sponsor, commercial vendor and swap meet vendors. Seminars, entertainment, and more! Enter our raffle for a chance to win a door prize!See our website for more information and See us in Rosemont this weekend!

Incredible 68 1/2 CJ 428 Mercury Cougar Featured at MCACN!

2009-10-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

It seems like it is a rarity to see any Cougar these days. But what about 428 CJ Cougars? And while we're talking rare, how about if we throw in some real, documented race history?

Well...that is what you will see at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, November 21-22! Dr. Ken Kadziela will be joining us with his very special Cougar. It seems that when Dr. Ken reached 50 years old, his wife Mary Lou figured she would get him the ultimate birthday gift; enter said Cougar! And this is not just any Cougar either. This 428 Cobra Jet Ram Air Cougar was raced for seven years in the great white North. Perhaps you have heard of legendary Canadian racer Barry Poole? Well, this is one of two 68 1/2 Cougars that he drove that Sandy Elliott sponsored, and it is the only one that has survived! Built to race, it is an ultra rare radio and heater delete car. This cat soon became known as "The Border Bandit" because nearly every time they crossed the U.S. border to race, they stole all the trophies and took them back home...across the border.

Perhaps you saw this car in a recent issue of Musclecar Review, where it was featured in a multiple page spread. Well, now you can see it up close, and believe me, you are going to be blown away.

And about those Cougars? Well...stay tuned, because we have yet another CJ 428 signed up, (a 1969), which will be featured in our "Class of 69" 40th Anniversary display!

Narrow Hip 1965 427 Cobra to be a Part of the MCACN "Shelby Snakepit" Display

2009-10-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

We are very happy to say we have not just one, not even Two, but THREE very significant Shelby Cobra's in our Shelby Snakepit display. To see just one of these is a treat, but THREE is, well...fantastic!

We would like to tell you about Colin Comers very special 1965 427 "Narrow Hip" Cobra. Early in the production run, Carroll Shelby was unhappy with the look of the wide-hip competition body when fitted with the 7.5" wide street wheels. After 25 were produced, Shelby decided to produce the narrow-hip, but after just 32 bodies were built, he decided it was not worth the added expense to produce more.

This makes the narrow hip 427 Cobras the rarest, and many feel the most aesthetically pleasing. Colins narrow-hip is # CSX 3134, and it remains as delivered, without the usual add-on side-pipes, hood scoop, roll bars or other accessories.
It also still retains all of the original componants, right down to the factory supplied grease gun and weather equipment.

And if you think that Mr. Comer let's this baby sit unused, you would be mistaken. After the previous owner allowed it to languish in a garage, Colin vowed to use it. In his words, "it now sees regular, and often vigorous use...as it should!"

We are honored to have this authentic bit of Shelby American history as a part of our 'Shelby Snakepit" display for the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals show November 21-22, 2009. www.mcacn.com

Santa to Appear at MCACN to benefit USMC Reserve Toys for Tots Program

2009-10-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Old Saint Nick himself will be at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals to benefit the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. Anyone who brings a new, unwrapped toy for donation to this worthy program that benefits less fortunate youngsters at Christmas, will get a FREE photo with Santa!
Get your photo taken with Santa, donate to a great cause, and avoid the lines at the Mall at Booth # 963 at the MCACN Show.
Thanks to the United States Marine Corps Reserve Chicago Division and some Wonderful Anonymous Participants of the show for hosting this awesome and fun event at the show.

Project American Heroes III to be Unveiled at MCACN

2009-10-04T19:48:00.001-07:00

As if they dont have enough to keep them busy with their new detailing line Exotic Coatings and their new Performance Parts division Route 66 Parts, and being an authorized dealer for the 2010 Nickey Chicago Camaro and their restoration shop Route 66 Motorsports, Bill Jelinek and the Route 66 Team is in the process of building ANOTHER Project American Heroes Car. In Conjunction with Super Chevy Magazine and a team of contributors, Route 66 Motorsports will be building a 1970 Chevelle for this historic benefit show car. Project American Heroes II sold for a impressive $500,000 to benefit the Armed Forces Foundation, and the Route 66 Crew could not pass up an opportunity to create another stunning car to auction for this worthy charity. We have included a rendering of this vehicle, however, the real deal PAH3 Chevelle will be unveiled Saturday at 12 Noon at the Route 66 Motorsports Booth at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals! Join Super Chevy Magazine, the Route 66 Crew and the MCACN Staff in celebrating the Armed Forces Foundation and an awesome new car.

One Off Helen Gibb ZL1 Camaro to Cross the Auction Block

2009-09-30T07:19:00.000-07:00

The MCACN Crew is excited about this weekend at the Mecum Auction St.Charles 09! Our title sponsor Nickey Chicago, will have 10 cars crossing the block, including The First Lady of the ZL1 Helen Gibb GMMG 2002 ZL1 Camaro. Helen Gibb, wife of the late Fred Gibb, of Gibb Chevrolet, COPO, ZL1 Conversion and racing fame, owns this awesome vehicle. Dont miss the opportunity to see and bid on a one off exclusive low mileage collectible automobile.

D & M Corvettes AND MORE! Displays at MCACN

2009-09-22T18:49:00.001-07:00

Here at MCACN, we are fortunate to be working with some great sponsors. Dave and Mary Glass, owners of D&M Corvette Specialties (and More!) of Downers Grove, Illinois are one of them.

Dave and Mary are true enthusiasts and we would like to present one of Dave's latest "toys", fresh from the D&M shop. This incredible Candy Red Willys is one of several Willys Dave owns, and believe me, it looks even better in person! The attention to detail is second to none and we are especially excited to announce that this beauty will be on display at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals along with Daves wild altered wheelbase 65 Plymouth, his matching straight axle injected Chevy II and...well, we'll tell you about the others later!

THANKS go out to Dave, Mary and all of the D&M Crew!

Nickey Chicago MCACN TITLE SPONSOR

2009-09-22T17:15:00.000-07:00

MCACN Presents The Hugger; AKA Orange Crush

2009-09-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

This incredible 1970 L78 Nova was delivered to Grossman Chevrolet, a well known high performance dealer and member of the Yenko dealer network, in Minneapolis, Mn. on February 19, 1969. One of a handful built with factory applied code 72 Hugger Orange paint, this very unique Nova was also equipped with Chevrolet's ferocious big block under the hood; the 375 horsepower, L-78 396 engine backed up by an M-21 transmission with a Muncie shifter.
Many vintage pictures from the prior owners depict the Day Two modifications that were often popular changes made “back in the day”. The Hugger retains its original interior and body panels as well as the original ZD radiator, 837 alternator and BT coded posi-traction rear differential. The authenticity of this Nova’s special paint status has been verified by numerous Nova experts and its – paint delete code trim tag and special HO firewall paper tag just begin to tell the interesting story of this very unusual Chevrolet Super Sport Nova.
This amazing bit of Chevrolet High Performance history will be featured as a part of the sYc Members Showcase at the upcoming Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, November 21-22, 2009. For more information, see www.mcacn.com.

Cars, Cars and More Cool Cars at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals

2009-09-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL INVITATIONAL DISPLAYS FEATURED AT THE NICKEY CHICAGO MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS!

Class of 69 40th Anniversary Display:
Featuring the “Top Dog” Muscle Cars from various manufacturers for the 1969 model year.

Among the invited cars participating; Hemi Dodge Daytona, Boss 429 Mustang, Mercury CJ 428 Cougar, Pontiac Trans Am Convertible, Camaro ZL1, 440+6 Roadrunner, Mercury Cyclone 428 CJ, Hurst Oldsmobile

Shelby Snakepit:
Featuring the country's best real Shelby Ford automobiles from 1965-1970, including a 1966 GT40 and several Cobras along with some of the most significant street and race prepped Shelby Mustangs ever shown.

Corvette L88 Showcase:
Featuring a variety of the very best L88 Corvettes, all real-deal documented cars with incredible history.

sYc Supercars Showcase:
A very special gathering of authentic dealer-built Supercars from Yenko, Gibb and others. Presented by www.Yenko.net. Absolutely no “clones” or “tributes” here!

sYc Members Showcase Display:
This area features some of the coolest Muscle Cars ever assembled. You'll see documented real Muscle Machines. Included will be the worlds' most famous LS6 Chevelle, The Red Alert and a beautiful unrestored original 1972 Hurst/Olds. Presented by www.yenko.net

VINTAGE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM ACKNOWLEDGES UNRESTORED ORIGINALS

2009-09-02T19:15:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of our show that will surely be popular is our Vintage Certification Program, led by acknowledged Camaro and Chevy expert Steve Shauger. The program will be launched with a group of six of the lowest mileage unrestored original Camaro's and Chevelles from across the country. The purpose of Vintage Certification at this time is to recognize and promote unrestored original Camaros and Chevelles.

The judging process for these cars is nothing short of intense. These vehicles will be pored over and all of the parts and components will be thoroughly checked for originality and date codes. The judging team will literally spend hours inside, outside and underneath these vehicles. A fully detailed list will itemize each of the components, and the owner will receive a comprehensive report summarizing the judge’s findings. Any components that deviate from how the car left the assembly line will be noted and appropriate point deductions will be made.

One of the featured Vintage Certification cars was recently uncovered in the Chicago area by Nickey Chicago CEO, Stefano Bimbi. This amazing L.A. Built 1970 ½ Camaro Z/28, owned by California collector Charley Lillard, has a mere 1,100 miles on the odometer. The story behind how this car spent the majority of its life in hibernation is nothing short of amazing. After a careless person put a door dent in the owners pride and joy, he stashed the car away in a heated shop, where it would stay for nearly 40 years with each and every original component left intact, right down to the air in the tires! The car had only seen the sun once in 36 years. This time capsule car is sure to be the benchmark for second generation Camaro aficionados and it will certainly be a treat for anyone who appreciates unmolested original muscle cars. To get a sneak peak of this car, check out www.1970z28Camaro.com

Shauger and the Vintage Certification team have participated at Carlisle’s GM Nationals for the past ten years, and bring a wealth of experience judging and documenting unrestored original Camaro's. He has assembled a team of experts who will share their vast knowledge of first and second generation Camaro's, and we are also proud to announce, Shauger is expanding the program with Vintage Certification for Chevelles, starting at the inaugural MCACN show.

The list of contenders includes Charley Lillard with the 1970 ½ Camaro RS Z/28, the 1969 COPO 427 Chevelle owned by Grady Burch, a 1969 Chevelle SS 396 owned by Phil Wojnarowski, a 1969 Camaro RS Z/28 owned by Mark Bulaw, a 1970 Camaro RS Z/28 owned by Ben Arena and the 1970 Chevelle SS LS6 owned by Joe DeMesey.

We are honored to have these time capsule muscle machines as a part of the show and to be able to promote their preservation. Be sure to allow plenty of time to view these cars and talk to the owners and the Judges, who are sure to have incredible stories and plenty of important historical information.

Incredible Big Tank Zo6 Race Car To Be Featured at Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals

2009-08-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

There are some people who truly live and breathe Corvettes. One of those people is Bill Braun, the Judging Chairman for the MCACN show. Bill and his wife Sue have owned numerous Corvettes over the years and he spends countless hours studying them.

When it comes to show time, Bill is usually far too busy to even consider showing one of his own Corvettes. For this show, we are happy to announce that Bill and Sue will be sharing a very significant car from their collection with all of us.

Any 1963 Split Window Coupe is desirable, but when it is a Zo6 Tanker with documented race history, well then you really have something. Bill and Sues Zo6 has been a designated race car for nearly all of its life. The car was raced in midwest SCCA events, at one point nearly every weekend, where the owner racked up numerous victories and surely had a lot of fun.

Bill knew about this car for nearly ten years before he was able to add it to his collection. Restored back to its original stock status, Bill showed the car over the next 19 years, earning an NCRS Top Flight award and a Gold Spinner. Over the years, Bill was able to contact previous owners and put together its extensive history. Armed with that information, he decided to return the rare mid-year to its 1965 era vintage race trim. With guidance from previous owner Pete Dock, along with a library of documents, photos and even old race footage, Bill and Sue were able to return this beauty to its former glory, right down to the last detail.

This Zo6 has only 32,000 original miles and it retains its original interior, undercarriage, and knock off wheels, which are documented on the original window sticker. This car has never had a frame-off restoration!

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, is proud to host this fine Zo6. We are also extremely pleased to have Bill Braun as our Judging Chairman and his wife Sue as a key member of the MCACN staff.

JIM WANGERS, THE GODFATHER OF THE GTO, TO APPEAR AT MCACN

2009-08-21T07:52:00.000-07:00

Jim Wangers may not have invented the Pontiac GTO, but there is no doubt that he understands the importance of creative marketing. As the legendary “ad man” for Pontiac, he is credited as being the marketer behind the GTO and several other Pontiac specialty cars. Wangers helped establish the “musclecar” of the sixties and to create a niche in the history of American car marketing.

Wangers was born in Chicago and we are proud to announce that Jim will be returning to his home town to be a part of the launch of the new Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, November 21-22, 2009.

Throughout the sixties, Wangers worked in various capacities in the auto industry, where he started in the advertising field in New York City after a stint in the Navy. His passion for horsepower eventually led to his involvement with Pontiac, and he landed in Detroit working for Pontiacs ad agency, McManus, John and Adams. A “hands-on” car guy, he even drove a Catalina Coupe to the divisions first-ever NHRA drag racing title in 1960 at the Nationals in Detroit.

Royal Pontiac in Royal Oak, Michigan became the “unofficial” testing garage for Pontiac's high performance cars and equipment, and Wangers is credited with organizing the Royal Pontiac program. It is considered to this day as one of the most respected and important Pontiac performance sources of the sixties and seventies. The “Royal Bobcat” package cars were revered and are now some of the most sought-after collectible muscle cars ever built.

One of Wangers most remembered feats involved a pair of 1964 GTO's and a certain Ferrari bearing a similar name, and Car and Driver magazine. Although Ferrari chose not to participate, Wangers and his crew pressed on and earned a cover story that will never be forgotten by the Pontiac faithful. This was indeed muscle car history in the making!

Perhaps the single car that Wangers was closest to, (which remains his personal favorite), is the 1969 GTO Judge. With its 60” spoiler, wild graphics and outrageous Carousel Red signature paint, it remains as one of the most recognized and popular muscle machines ever built. After the introduction of the Judge, Esquire magazine credited Wangers as “the man who invented Woodward Avenue.” Perhaps this is due to the late night “testing” sessions that he was known for!

Today, at age 83, Jim is as active as ever. His greatest joys are gained by spending time with enthusiasts of all ages. We are honored to have Jim Wangers, “The Godfather of the GTO,” as a special guest at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals. Wangers will be appearing Saturday along with one of the original 1964 Royal Bobcat GTO's from the famous Car and Driver article, and on Sunday as part of the Supercar Automotive display.

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals will take place November 21-22, 2009 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, (greater Chicago), Illinois. The show features nearly 500 of the country's finest and rarest collectible cars along with a variety of all automotive vendors offering goods and services. A Collector Car Corral will also offer select cars for sale.

MCACN TO BE FEATURED ON FOX SPORTS TELEVISION PROGRAM

2009-08-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

The Masters Entertainment Group, producers of a variety of specialty shows on the Fox Sports TV network, has signed a deal with the producers of the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, to air a 30 minute television program, entirely devoted to the launch of the show.

“With all of the interest in muscle cars and the rare dealer-built super-cars that we are hosting, along with some of the country's best Corvettes, we are truly honored to be a part of this”, said Managing Member Bob Ashton. “We have people coming in from California, Florida, the East Coast and many other states and Canada with some absolutely amazing cars,” Ashton stated.

The Fox TV team will be taping all day Saturday, looking for those special cars and interesting owners who can tell the story of how and why they are so passionate about their automobiles. Starting with the featured Nickey Chicago vs. Mr. Norms theme, they are hoping to hear stories from “back in the day” about how these cars and the legendary high performance muscle car dealers left a lasting impression.

The Triple Diamond Corvette competition will also be a focal point for the Fox TV team. Knowing the amount of work it takes to achieve the required NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold certifications, they will be talking to owners of these Corvettes, considered the best of the best, and finding out what drives these people to “go for the Gold.”

The program, which will air in December 2009, will also take a behind the scenes look at what goes into producing the world's largest all indoor specialty muscle car and Corvette show. Expect to see many aspects that are rarely seen, including some of the Judging procedures and much more.

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals takes place November 21-22, 2009 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, (greater Chicago), Illinois. The show features nearly 500of the country's finest and rarest collectible cars along with a variety of all automotive vendors offering goods and services. A Collector Car Corral will also be offering cars for sale.

MR NORM TO APPEAR AT NICKEY CHICAGO MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS

2009-08-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

Yep, it has been confirmed, Mr. Norm Kraus, the man himself, will be joining us both Saturday and Sunday at the show. In fact, you will find Norm behind the desk with an order pad, ready to write up a deal on one of the latest offerings from Mr. Norms Garage!

Look for Mr. Norm in the big Mr. Norms Garage display, which will be right up front, directly across from the big Nickey Chicago display. You will see history in the making as the Nickey crew will take on the Mr. Norms crew, showing cars from the late 60's right up to the latest offerings from both camps.

With the launch of the new Gen 5 Camaro and the cool Challenger, it looks like the Muscle Car Wars are heating up again in a big way and these guys are adding fuel to the fire. Be a part of history in the making November 21-22, 2009.

Dennis Cumby's LS6 Chevelle; One the Didn't Get Away!

2009-07-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

How many of us wish we would have kept that (fill in the blank) that we once owned? Stories of the ones that got away, or even worse, went to the scrap yard, are plentiful in our hobby.

Back in late 1969, Dennis Cumby decided it was time to buy himself a brand new car. Something in black with the biggest, baddest engine was the plan. Heading over to Fred Gibb Chevrolet in LaHarpe, Illinois, Dennis took a fist full of dollars and ordered up his dream car. Soon, a shiny black on black Chevelle SS was delivered to the Illinois Performance dealership.

And speaking of big and bad, rest assured that Dennis checked all the right boxes. With the 450 horsepower LS6 454 backed by an M40 Turbo-Automatic under the hood, he was sure to win his share of stoplight to stoplight races!

And thinking back to the ones that got away, this is one that didn't. Dennis somehow managed to not only hold on to his muscular Chevelle, but he has also preserved the car and to this day maintains it in show ready condition, unrestored and all original, including the gleaming black paint. But don't think for a minute that Dennis doesn't occasionally exercise this beast. Dennis remembers that first ride back in late '69 and whenever he wants to relive those simpler times, all he has to do is go out and open up his garage door, which he often does.

If you would like to see what an all original LS6 Chevelle looks like, and talk to the original owner, Dennis will be out and about this Saturday, July 31, at the 11th Annual Fred Gibb Memorial Open Car show in LaHarpe, IL. See the show website for more details and be sure to see Dennis at the show. Www.fredgibb.com.

Dennis Cumby will also be showing his 1970 LS6 454 Chevelle SS as part of the sYc Members Showcase, November 21-22, 2009 at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet. See www.mcacn.com for more information. We are honored to have Dennis as a part of our inaugural show.

ROUTE 66 MOTORSPORTS PRESENTS DETAILING SEMINARS AT MCACN

2009-07-28T16:07:00.001-07:00

Route 66 Motorsports, Inc. is proud to announce a complete line-up of superior car care products designed by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts. After experimenting with various products over the years, the Route 66 Motorsports team has developed unique formulas that utilize state of the art ingredients for superior use and lasting results.

This lineup of high quality interior and exterior detailing and cleaning products are Made in the U.S.A. Route 66 Motorsports Exotic Coatings products use the latest ingredients and modern technology combined with over 30 years of hands-on experience working with various compounds, polishes, glazes, waxes, sealants and conditioners. The result is a complete lineup that includes everything from waxes and polishes to leather conditioners and microfiber towels.

“After using various products over the years with less than satisfactory results, we have formulated our very own car care products for people like us, who care about our cars. Our goal is to offer products that are easy to use and give superior results that other products just can't do. We use these products on our own cars!” Bill Jelinek, Owner, Route 66 Motorsports, Inc. and Route 66 Exotic Coatings, Inc.

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals would like to announce that the Route 66 Motorsports team will be offering detailing seminars at the show, stay tuned for the times and locations during the show.

GO FAST...LOOK GOOD!

Hassett #37 ZL1 Camaro Joins Class of '69 Display at MCACN

2009-07-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

If you are a Camaro enthusiast, chances are you have dreams of owning, or perhaps just having a ride in, a real-live ZL1 427 Camaro. In 1969, only 69 of these behemoths were built under the COPO program. Most were delivered to Fred Gibb Chevrolet in LaHarpe, Illinois, but a handful managed to be delivered to a select few other performance dealers. This is one of the cars that Fred Gibb sent back to GM.

Mark Hassett has owned many performance cars over the years including several Yenko's, Baldwin Motion creations and more, but his ZL1 certainly must be one of his favorites. With a mere 8,000 miles on the odometer, Mr. Hassett is the third owner. Sold new in February 1971 through Sutliff Chevrolet in Harrisburg, PA. after sitting on the lot for far too long. The Sutliff folks even asked racer Bruce Larsen to exercise it at the track, hoping to lure a buyer. After this didn't work, they added a rear deck spoiler and a set of Rally wheels and eventually it found a home.

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals is proud to have Mr. Hassett's #35 ZL1 Camaro as part of our “Class of 69” 40th Anniversary Invitational display. This beautiful ZL1 will be shown alongside other “top dog” 1969 Muscle Machines including a Hemi Dodge Daytona, a Boss 429 Mustang and other must see rarities November 21-2, 2009 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Our Thanks go out to the Hassett family for their continued support of what we do and for sharing this bit of Muscle Car history with us.

Muscle Means FAST! See KWhizz BelAir Muscle at MCACN

2009-07-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Back in 1966, if you wanted to impress your friends with a high performance car, chances are you ordered up a Chevelle SS, GTO or maybe even a Charger or a Shelby Mustang.

For a select few, a more subtle approach was taken. When the original owner of Ken Tibors 1966 Bel Air visited the showroom, he obviously wanted to go fast, but didn't want everyone to know his intent. 427/425 horsepower engine; check...4-speed transmission; check...posi-traction rear with a stout gear; check!

Now how about a color that even your Grandma would like; yep, Beige with a Fawn bench seat interior should do it! Ken found this car with just over 40,000 miles on the odometer in North Carolina and proceeded to perform a full restoration at his home. Paintwork is credited to Pulera Collision while engine work was handled by Don's Automotive. The car is now restored to "as delivered" condition. Be sure to look for this one at the show and take a peak under the hood to see some real American Muscle!

HURST HEMI UNDER GLASS TO BE FEATURED AT MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS

2009-07-10T23:29:00.000-07:00

In the wild world of wheel-standers, there is one name that is instantly recognized; the Hurst Hemi Under Glass. It all started back in the 60's as an experiment between Chrysler Corporation and the Hurst Research Center in Warren , Michigan. Looking for ways for both companies to gain recognition and publicity, George Hurst and Jack “Doc” Watson devised a way to truly stand out from the crowd.

Taking a 426 Hemi engine and placing it behind the driver, under the huge rear window, certainly did that! Often referred to as a “rolling research laboratory,” it soon became known as the “Hemi Under Glass”.

The concept of a wheel-stander actually came about quite by accident. Jay Howell, the original driver of the Little Red Wagon, accidentally put his foot to the floor tipping the truck over onto its back wheels, front wheels pointing toward the sky. Wanting no part of this, Howell stepped aside. Enter “Wild Bill” Shrewsberry, the first pilot of the Hemi Under Glass, an early Plymouth Barracuda. Shortly after this car was built, Shrewsberry left Hurst to pilot his own wheel-stander, known as the L.A.Dart. Seeing the incredible promotional opportunities and attention that this car was drawing, George Hurst and Doc Watson immediately offered the ride to racer Bob Riggle, who had originally scribbled a drawing of a rear engine Barracuda on a dinner napkin...

Riggle soon found there was much more to piloting a rear-engine Hemi powered fish down the track on its rear wheels, and that it was incredibly hard to handle. Hurst was also not impressed with the car veering left to right as he viewed it going down the track. After experimenting with different methods of launching the car, Riggle was able to harness all that power by rolling out in second gear and dumping the clutch. This technique settled the car down, allowing it to travel down the entire quarter mile on its rear bumper, sparks flying.

In 1969, Riggle purchased the early car and all of the related parts from Hurst, and for a while, the Hurst name was not used. Known as “The Frantic Fish”, Riggle once again hit the tracks with his earlier version of the wild wheel-stander to the crowds pleasure. Several Hemi Under Glass cars were campaigned over the years until eventually, Riggle stepped out of the spotlight after surviving a wild crash. In 1991, after a fateful meeting with old friend Linda Vaughan, the Hemi Under Glass was resurrected and once again, Riggle was pleasing crowds at various exhibition runs, blasting down the quarter mile on the back bumper of the Hurst Hemi Under Glass Barracuda.

The 1968 Hurst Hemi Under Glass Barracuda, the last of the authentic Barracuda Hemi Under Glass cars, currently resides in the collection of Bill Sefton, along with the 66 and also the 67 version. This may be the ultimate Tri-Fecta of historical Mopars, and we are proud to feature this car at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals inaugural show, November 21-22, 2009.

Incredible Corvette Sunray DX Racer to be Shown at MCACN

2009-07-03T09:08:00.001-07:00

In the racing world, the Corvette has changed history in many ways for years, and it continues to do so to this day. In the mid sixties, when the Chevrolet boys introduced the L88, the whole scene changed. As we prepare for the July 4th holiday and celebrate our independance, what could be more American than a Red, White and Blue L88 Corvette?

We are proud to announce that Pennsylvania collector Irwin Kroiz will be joining the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals with an incredible piece of Corvette Racing history. His #3 Sunray/DX 1968 Corvette L88, restored by Kevin Mackay and the Corvette Repair, Inc. crew, is one of three cars campaigned in 1968 by the Sunray/DX Oil Company. The story behind these three cars includes names like Don Yenko, Dave Morgan and Hap Sharp, to name a few.

For the complete story on this historical car, plan on spending some time at the show talking to the owner and viewing it in person. Also, be sure to look for noted author Dr. Pete Gimenez who will be joining us with his fantastic book; "Corvette Racing Legends, The Story of the L88 Option Package". The Sunray/DX Corvettes are covered in detail in this book, along with many other significant Corvettes. www.corvetteracinglegends.com

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Irwin Kroiz for showing this amazing car and sharing its history and also to Dr. Pete Gimenez for joining us with his must have Corvette Racing Legends book.

Fine L78 Chevelle SS Joins sYc Members Showcase

2009-06-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

In 1969, you were pretty cool if you owned a Chevelle SS. If you owned one with the solid lifter 375 horsepower L78 396 under the hood, you were not only cool, but respected as well. This LeMans Blue Chevelle SS is owned by Jim Hanke. Loaded with rare options including a power drivers side bucket seat, an AM-FM radio, the M22 4-speed transmission and much more. The Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals is proud to feature Jim and his L78 Chevelle as part of the sYc Members Showcase.

TRIPLE DIAMOND COMPETITION FOR COUNTRY'S FINEST CORVETTES FEATURED AT NICKEY CHICAGO MUSCLE CAR & CORVETTE NATIONALS

2009-06-22T10:46:00.000-07:00

After achieving the prestigious NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold® awards and certification, the next step for the Corvette owner is to be a part of the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals Triple Diamond Corvette Certification, Sponsored by Mid America Motorworks. To be a part of this intense competition, candidates must first submit proof of obtaining NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold® certification dated within the past five years. These restored or original Corvettes are truly the best of the best. (Please include copies of certificates with your application), Thank You!
Triple Diamond Corvette candidates are judged on a 1,000 point scale with deductions taken for any deviations from how the vehicle left the assembly line. A team of highly trained Corvette specialists, led by acknowledged Corvette authority Bill Braun, go over every square inch of the vehicle; inside, outside and underneath. Checking date codes, part numbers, fit and finish techniques and more, to assure that any Corvette that is able to make the cut is truly one of the world's best.
The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, is proud to be able to provide what many will consider the “Crowning Achievement” for the Corvette enthusiast. With a limit of fifty entrants, the Triple Diamond Corvette Gallery, sponsored by Mid America Motorworks, is sure to be sold out well in advance of the show.
If you own a restored or original Corvette that has achieved NCRS Top Flight and Bloomington Gold® certification, please consider joining us to earn your Triple Diamond Award and Certificate November 21-22, 2009. A beautiful Crystal like engraved award, along with a certificate and registration in the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Triple Diamond Registry, will be presented to participants who are judged 95% or better on a percentage of points basis.
Registration for the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Triple Diamond competition is now open and is strictly limited. Please be sure to apply early to secure your spot and your chance to obtain Triple Diamond Certification.

LAST BALDWIN-MOTION PHASE III GT CORVETTE TO DEBUT AT MUSCLE CAR & CORVETTE NATIONALS!

2009-06-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

Purchased from the original owner's family in 2008, Adam Tuckman's 1971 Baldwin-Motion Phase III GT Corvette is believed to be the most highly optioned, documented and original GT built. Between 1969 and 1971, Joel Rosen built just 12 GT's!

On June 3, 1971, Dr. Harry Rollings took delivery of his air conditioned, 500-plus horsepower, 1971 Phase III GT from Joel Rosen at Motion Performance in Baldwin, New York. Power was supplied by a blueprinted and balanced 454 big-block built to LS-7 specifications and fitted with Phase III cam and valve train, open chamber ZL-1 aluminum heads, headers and an 850 cfm Holley 4-barrel. Backing up the potent Phase III engine; A massaged M40 Turbo Hydramatic, Hone overdrive and a 4.88 Posi rear. Creature comforts include a custom interior and stereo system and numerous factory power options.

Dr. Rollings paid his bill, ($16,283.00), hopped into the GT's plush interior and drove home to Savannah, GA! Between 1971 and 1989, the colorful Internist who owned and piloted vintage World War II aircraft, used his Phase III GT for making house calls, towing his Jaguar E-Type SCCA race cars and high speed touring. He put more than 31,000 trouble-free miles on his unique Corvette Supercar. In 1989, he gifted his GT to his daughter and son-in-law, Ellen and Don Glasser. Dr. Rollings passed away in 2003.

“Dr. Rollings owned imported exotics, raced sports cars and flew restored Warbirds. Once he took a test ride in a 1970 GT that we had just finished for a customer, he was hooked,” said Joel “Mr. Motion” Rosen. Documented by Joel Rosen for the Glassers in 2003 and again for Adam Tuckman in 2008, it is the most highly optioned Phase III GT built. Other than being repainted in the 1980's, it is the most original GT known.

Dr. Rollings GT is being restored by John Waleck, who restored Joel Rosen's yellow Phase III GT now owned by Dan McMichael. Gary “The Local Brush” Kupfer originally striped and trimmed Dr. Rollins GT in 1971 and will apply the finishing touches to the GT prior to its public debut at the MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS in Chicago on November 21-22, 2009.

Special Thanks to Marty Schorr of PMPR, Inc. We are honored to have Mr. Tuckman debut this significant Supercar at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals. The photo's shown are of the car in as purchased condition in 2008.

GUS GRISSOM 1967 CORVETTE TO BE SHOWN AT MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS

2009-06-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

In the 1960's, the United States was engaged in an intense “Space Race” with the Soviet Union. It was a race to be the first to step foot on the moon, and return safely. National media and the public were intently observing this race, and the astronauts involved quickly became national heroes. One of these astronauts, Virgil “Gus” Grissom, was part of NASA's very first U.S. manned space program and also was one of NASA's Original Seven Mercury Astronauts. In addition to being part of this team, Grissom was a top notch test pilot and engineer. His hard work and persistence led to his appointment as Commander for the first Apollo flight.

Grissom would become the second man to ever step foot on the surface of the moon. This would be just one of the many career accomplishments he would be known for in the years to come, and surely his ultimate achievement.

On earth, Gus Grissom was often involved in a different type of race. This would be a race to see which astronaut had the fastest Corvette! Grissom was a long time Corvette enthusiast, and he had owned five other Corvettes prior to taking delivery of his '67. In late 1966, Grissom and fellow astronaut Alan Shephard would take delivery of nearly identical brand new 1967 427/435 horsepower Corvette Roadsters.

Knowing that Shephard was the better driver, Grissom called on Jim Rathmann, owner of Jim Rathmann Chevrolet/Cadillac in Melbourne, Florida, (the delivering dealer), for some help. Explaining the situation, Rathmann quickly devised a plan. Adding a 4:56 posi rear end and slightly widening the rear wheel openings to allow room for a set of racing slicks, the already quick Corvette became nothing less than a street terror. Thanks to these improvements, Grissom found himself winning nearly every race, whether for a dinner or for a beer.

Sadly, Grissom's life would come to a tragic end January 27, 1967, when Gus, along with fellow Astronauts Edward White and Roger Chaffee, perished in the Apollo One fire on the launch pad at Cape Kennedy.

The car would remain with Grissom's wife for about a year before being returned to Rathmann's dealership. From there, the car was sold and would not surface for several years. After passing through several dealers and various owners, the car surfaced on eBay where it was offered twice. In 2007 the car surfaced at the Russo and Steele Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, where it was featured with an incredible display of memorabilia which would be included in the sale of the car. After intense bidding, the historical Corvette and all of the related memorabilia would become part of a significant Arizona collection, where it would serve as the centerpiece.

We are extremely pleased to be able to present this significant bit of Americana and Corvette History, along with the incredible Gus Grissom memorabilia collection at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, November 21-22, 2009.

Show Stopper 69 L78 Chevelle to be shown at Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals

2009-06-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

When we put out the call for outstanding Muscle Cars, we knew there would be some great replies. One that really makes my heart skip a beat came in recently and I know it will be a hit. Bill Hamel has shown his Monaco Orange 69 L78 Chevelle SS in the Chicago area several times. In fact, it has scored several Gold Spinner awards and also the Top Gun award at the Chevy Vettefest along with a Best Chevelle award at a Super Chevy show, among some pretty tough competition.

Bill's 69 is indeed a very special car. Not just because the restoration is of the highest quality, but also because it is equipped with the very rare Chevrolet Performance Cowl Plenum Air Intake. This is a very rare option and one you really need to see in person. Bill has owned his all numbers matching Chevelle for about 12 years, and the complete frame off restoration was concluded in November 2005.

We are honored to have people like Bill as part of our inaugural show and we recommend that anyone who truly appreciates rare Chevelles and quality restoration work, along with a fine presentation and display, be sure to allow plenty of time to view Bill's L78 Chevelle SS. Bill would also like you to know that this car is dedicated to his late Mother, Mary E. Hamel, who appreciated and loved cars. “Without her I wouldn't have been able to restore the car.” Bill stated.

2009 Mr. Norms Super Challenger will appear at MCACN

2009-06-03T15:34:00.000-07:00

THE MR. NORM’S SUPER CHALLENGER AND SUPER CUDA are in full production at the state of the art 26,000 sq.ft. Mr. Norm’s Garage facility in Hudson, Florida, Mike Staveski, managing partner of Mr. Norm’s Garage announced. These vehicles debuted at the 2008 SEMA SHOW, and have been on a national tour since that event. During 2009 they have been displayed in the Dodge Exhibit at the Chicago Automobile Show and the San Diego Automobile Show, along with the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California and the Detroit Autorama. Look for them next in the Mr. Norm’s Garage exhibit on the Manufacturers Midway at Mopars At The Strip at the Las Vegas Speedway and the Chrysler LX Festival in Irvine, California. You will be able to see this car in person at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals.

Based on the new 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT-8, the Mr. Norm’s Super Challenger and Super Cuda draw inspiration from their race bred relatives, the original 1971 Mr. Norm’s Super Challenger Super Fuel Funny Car and the legendary 1970 Cuda. These vehicles feature a dramatic appearance that matches heart stopping good looks with heart pounding performance.

The Super Challengers incorporate modern interpretations of the original Challenger graphics, while the Super Cuda wears bold Hemi Orange paint, accented with matte black strobe stripes. Inside, they feature glove soft Katzkin custom leather interiors with contrasting “Barracuda” inserts and monogrammed carpet mats by Designer Mat.

And if all that’s not enough, just wait ‘til you push the start button and awaken the available Mr. Norm’s Signature 650 and 900 horsepower Kenne Bell supercharged and intercooled 16 plug HEMI engines. Singing their siren song through a low restriction Corsa Performance cat back dual exhaust system, the Super Challenger and Super Cuda balance tire smoking power with a ground hugging lowered suspension. Rolling stock on the Super Challengers offer the choice of two styles of multi piece forged wheels, while the Super Cuda features distinctive Hulst Customs “1320” modular alloys. All wear Pirelli Scorpion Zero Assimetrico ultra high performance tires.

Add it all up and you’ve got the new Mr. Norm’s Super Challenger and Super Cuda, the street lethal sport coupes. Armed with nothing less than ground pounding 6.1 Hemi engines, they’re complemented by a chassis with just the right mix of components to harness the power. The Super Challenger and Super Cuda look like a wolf in wolfs clothing, because they are. These are two muscle cars that speak loudly and carry a very big stick.

For information about the Mr. Norm’s Super Challenger and Super Cuda, contact Mr. Norm’s Garage at 9134 Eden Avenue, Hudson, FL 34667, phone them at 727-869-9533 or visit their web site www.mrnormsgarage.com

Mr. Norm’s Garage is located in Hudson, Florida. It is a modern, state of the art 26,000 sq ft facility where design, prototyping and turnkey performance and custom Mopars are built. Working directly with Mr. Norm, who made Grand Spaulding Dodge in Chicago the Mecca for ultimate Mopar muscle cars during the golden age of high performance, Mr. Norms Garage continues this proud legacy by offering a comprehensive line of award winning modern and vintage Mr. Norm’s vehicles, parts and accessories. (from Mr Norm's and Performance West Group Press Release) Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals is proud to have Mr. Norms Garage as a Diamond Sponsor

Nickey Chicago Corvette Nationals Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet

2009-06-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

Bill Stasek Chevrolet is an Authorized Corvette, Callaway Corvette and Nickey Conversion Car Dealer! If you are in the Wheeling, Illinois area, stop in, say hello to Scott Wiscomb and check out their inventory. When we were there recently they had SEVERAL of the brand New Gen 5 Camaros and will have the Nickey Gen 5 Super Camaro available! Bill Stasek Chevrolet will have a huge display at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals. Thanks to Bill Stasek Chevrolet for all your support of the show!

NICKEY CHICAGO JOINS FORCES WITH ROUTE 66 MOTORSPORTS

2009-05-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

We are proud to announce a new venture that creates an alliance between TWO of our Sponsors. Stefano Bimbi of Nickey Chicago and Bill Jelinek of Route 66 Motorsports have joined forces to build the ultimate Pro Touring Camaro; the “Nickey Camaro Pro Touring g-Machine”.

Job #1 will start with a wild Yellow 1969 Camaro. Stefano and Bill, along with their teams of craftsman, will create the latest chapter of Nickey history with this new release. Using the old school Nickey formula, they will utilize the latest in state of the art components to create a first generation Camaro that is made to not only look good, but to handle better then any one would have dreamed back in 69.

“We are excited to join forces with the Nickey team”, stated Jelinek. “This adds an entirely new dimension to the Nickey Chicago lineup, and we are proud to be able to be a part of the team,” Bimbi stated.

Expect to find the signature stinger style hood scoop, Nickey embroidered seats, a unique graphics package and a high tech drive train and a much modified suspension setup. Offered in Stage 1, Stage II and Stage III configurations, Nickey Chicago and Route 66 Motorsports are geared up to create the car of your dreams.

Stay tuned for future updates on this new venture and be sure to allow plenty of time to view all of the beautiful cars from Nickey Chicago and Route 66 Motorsports at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals November 21-22, 2009.

Carl Bolander & 1970 COPO Option 9796 Camaro will show at MCACN

2009-05-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

Although not quite the celebrity of it’s older brothers of 1969 ,the 1970 9796 COPO option for the Z28 holds an interesting place in racing history. On the surface one might not even notice anything more than a Z28.

Let’s travel back to early 1970 and where the story begins……

The 1970 Trans Am season was a replay of the prior year's manufacturer wars with one major exception, the Shelby Racing team pulled out of Trans Am racing totally. Trans Am racing had become the top race in the country. Attendance was way up at the races. The Z-28 Camaros and Boss 302s were competing for street sales with the public.
The competition was going to be tough in 1970. Leaving Chevy Penske took his team, including Mark Donahue to American Motors. The Chevy team was at a great disadvantage. The loss of the Penske team and a new body that wasn't scheduled for release until mid model year threatened Chevy's repeat of the 1969 win in 1970. Jim Hall quickly put two Camaros together. One to be driven by him and the other driver was Ed Leslie. Even though GM was officially uninvolved in racing, the Hall Camaros were factory race cars.
The early testing and competition proved a disappointment for the Chevy team. Handling issues and other problems vexed the cars. One of the dominant problems was lack of stability at higher speeds. It was found that the short production spoiler was not creating the desired effect at speed and in fact was reducing down force. The team went to a large duck tail rear spoiler with AO Smith tooled end caps to eliminate the stability issues and get the car firmly back on the ground. Only one problem, SCCA required equipment used in Trans-Am race series to be production based, and needed at least 1000 cars with the option prior to racing approval (homologated).
Time was of the essence, the season was starting and in order to use the larger spoiler production cars were needed fast. In order to get this done a Central Office Production Order (COPO 9796) was used. With some smooth talking, Team Chevy was able to convince SCCA officials that the duck tail spoilers had met the production requirements as the first COPO 9796 cars were being built. In fact there is no real accounting for the number of COPO cars manufactured. It is believed the figure is less than 500. Chevy went through the 1970 series with disappointing results and resigned from the Trans Am series the end of 1970.
Moving forward it was noted that the “Tall” spoiler was extremely popular with the public and the COPO 9796 option actually replaced the short spoiler as RPO D80 in subsequent years. The COPO 9796 although developed for high speed road racing is the only COPO option ever to be move into standard production and was utilized for several years. -Carl Bolander

Thanks Carl for the story and your participation in the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals! FYI- Carls application was the VERY First application we recieved for the show!

Nickey Chicago Gen 5 Camaro Seen at Mecum Spring Classic

2009-05-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

And the Conversion has begun! This car is awesome...You gotta see it in person. Questions about the car or how to order one for yourself? Give Denny a shout at dbarkerss@live.com. A certain member of the MCACN crew got to drive it brand new, and cant wait until Nickey adds even more horsepowerto take another spin! See it in person at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals! Hey! Do you remember Nickey Chevrolet?? Well,Nickey Chicago has some original Nickey Chevrolet Merchandise for sale at www.nickeygear.com...You gotta check it out..those clickers are classic!

Mr. Norms Super Challenger will appear at MCACN in November

2009-05-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

Mr. Norms Garage Super Challenger was seen on display at the Mecum Spring Classic Auction this past weekend in Indy. Very Cool! Want one for yourself? See this awesome car at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals
Nov. 21 & 22, 2009 If you think this car is cool, wait until you see the Super Cuda...

Red Alert Drag Race Chevelle to Appear at Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals

2009-05-12T15:25:00.000-07:00

IN NOVEMBER OF 1969 DRAG RACER BOB HAMILTON ORDERED A BRIGHT RED 1970 LS-6 CHEVELLE, AND LOADED IT UP WITH ALL THE OPTIONS. UPON ARRIVAL HE GAVE IT TO HIS WIFE DOROTHY AS A VALENTINE'S PRESENT. A SHORT YEAR LATER DOROTHY RELUCTANTLY TURNED THE CHEVELLE OVER TO BOB FOR WHAT WOULD TURN INTO ONE OF THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS CAREERS OF ANY CAR OF THE ERA. BECAUSE OF THE ON GOING COLD WAR WITH THE SOVIET UNION, IT WAS DECIDED TO NAME THE NEW RACER "RED ALERT.”

IN LATE 1971, WHILE COMPETING IN THE HIGHLY CONTESTED NHRA SS/DA CLASS, THE AMT TOY MODEL COMPANY TOOK NOTICE AND SOON “RED ALERT” WAS AN AMT MODEL. AMT QUICKLY HAD A SALES BONANZA AS “RED ALERT” WENT ON TO BECOME AMT'S ALL-TIME SALES LEADER. SALES WERE SO GOOD THAT AMT RE-RELEASED “RED ALERT” TWO MORE TIMES.

BOB MOVED TO FLORIDA IN 1974, WHERE HE CONTINUED TO RACE “RED ALERT” UNTIL 1976, WHERE IN IT’S LAST SEASON, BOB AND “RED ALERT” TOOK HOME TOP STOCK ELIMINATOR 14 OUT OF 16 TIMES.

DURING THE 1990s, CAMPAIGNED BY TERRY CARNEY AND BILL STEPHENSON AND TAKING PART IN VARIOUS NOSTALGIA DRAG RACING EVENTS, “RED ALERT” ONCE AGAIN TOOK ON THE HEAVY HITTERS OF OLD, SUCH AS RONNIE SOX AND HIS SOX/MARTIN 426 HEMICUDA. DURING THIS TIME, “RED ALERT” WAS STILL SO POPULAR THAT THE ERTL COMPANY TWICE RELEASED IT’S OWN DIECAST VERSION OF “RED ALERT”.

TODAY, UNRESTORED, STILL RETAINING AROUND 60% OF ITS ORIGINAL PAINT, ALL OF ITS ORIGINAL SHEETMETAL AND MOST OF ITS ORIGINAL INTERIOR. “RED ALERT” CAN BE SEEN PARTICIPATING AT MAJOR CAR SHOWS (Such as MCACN) AND RACING AT VARIOUS NOSTALGIA EVENTS.

Route 66 Motorsports Pro-Touring Experts

2009-05-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

The Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals would like to extend an invitation to owners of quality Pro Touring cars to be a part of our inaugural show. Join this beautiful 69 Camaro, built by Route 66 Motorsports of New Lenox, IL. and be a part of Muscle Car History in the making!

Next Generation Nickey Camaro Hits the Ground!

2009-05-01T06:54:00.001-07:00

Things are really cooking at Nickey Chicago headquarters in St. Charles, IL. The very first Gen 5 Camaro scheduled for Nickey Stage III Conversion has finally hit the ground and Stefano Bimbi and the crew are ready to dive in.

With nearly 700 horsepower on tap and a complete suspension package that will corner like its on rails, this is without a doubt the Ultimate Gen 5 Camaro! This is no simple engine swap with some stickers slapped on...this is a FULL conversion utilizing state of the art components inside, outside and underneath.

Since this one, Job #001, is already sold to a collector in Canada,
you'll have to place your order for another, but rest assured,
now is the time to make the commitment.
Gen 5 Nickey Camaros are offered in Stage I, Stage II and Stage III
versions, just like "back in the day".

Imagine using the original formula that Nickey Hi-Performance Cars
and Parts Manager Don Swiatek and the Nickey crew used back in the
late 60's and early 70's and making it even better with modern
knowledge and technology. Add the incredible experience
that engine builders Wegner Performance add to the mix and
you have an unbeatable combination.

The Limited Edition, serialized Nickey Camaro's are without
a doubt the hottest thing to hit the market since back in
the day, so don't miss out...order yours now!

THE ORIGINAL ROYAL BOBCAT GTO CAR AND DRIVER TEST CAR AT MCACN

2009-04-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

In 1964, the idea of stuffing a big-block engine into a small body was unheard of. In fact, it was even thought to be forbidden by corporate management of General Motors. This is where John Delorean, then Chief Engineer, and eventually Pontiac's General Manager comes in. It seems that Delorean was dead set to not only produce, but promote what would soon be credited as a true muscle car legend.

Taking a big engine and stuffing it into a small, lightweight body was nothing new, but packaging it as an affordable performance machine available to the masses sure was. Enter Jim Wangers, a creative advertising executive for Pontiac's ad agency. It seems that Mr. Wangers had a real passion for horsepower, and saw this as an excellent opportunity to make his mark.

With a few calls to Car and Driver magazine editor David E. Davis, Wangers pitched the idea of pitting the all new Pontiac GTO against the Ferrari GTO in a heads-up competition. Davis immediately jumped at the opportunity, knowing it would surely sell some magazines. “As it turned out”, recalls Wangers in his memoirs, Glory Days, “even I didn't realize how timely an idea I had proposed, not only for Pontiac but also for the magazine.”

Lining up two new GTO's, Wangers and his crew set out for Daytona between Christmas and New Years in 1964. One of those cars was a Nocturne Blue pilot car and prepared for the handling portion of the test; the other was Grenadier Red, and built in Pontiac Engineering for the acceleration test. Before the test, the cars were turned over to Royal Pontiac in Royal Oak, Michigan. Known as the place for Pontiac super tuning and considered Pontiac's “back door” performance dealer, Wangers let Car and Driver know about most of the mods, but some would not be known until many years later.

Needless to say, the Car and Driver staffers were impressed. When they came up with zero to 60 times of 4.6 seconds and a quarter mile time of 13.1 at 115 mph, Car and Driver couldn't say enough about it. Since Ferrari had refused to send one of their GTO's, the damage had been done.

The March of 1964 issue featured a beautiful cover with a painting of the two GTO's doing battle on a winding road course with the headline “Zero to 100mph in 11.8 seconds!” For three decades, Wangers denied allegations that the red car was a ringer with a much massaged 421 under the hood. In his book, he came clean. So why did he do this? “Because of the GTO's mystique.” Wangers replied. “I liked the controversy that volleyed back and forth”. This deception worked better than anyone could have imagined.

Fast forward to 2005. Muscle car enthusiast Tenney Fairchild knew about this car and found it tucked away in a Corvette dealer’s shop where it had been stored since 1990. “My Dad and Jim Wangers were friends who worked together at Pontiac's advertising agency”, Fairchild stated. One day while spending some time with Dad at work, he had his first ride in the GTO, with Wangers behind the wheel. To this day, he has strong recollections of that experience. “It was my first impression of what a hot car was,” Fairchild stated.

Knowing the historical significance of this car, the decision was made to have noted restorer Scott Tiemann of Supercar Specialties do a “freshening up.” Initially not planning on a full restoration, with the encouragement of Wangers and the availability of Tiemann, the decision was made to tackle the restoration. Nearly a year later, the famous Royal Bobcat GTO was complete and looking as good as it did that day at Daytona, in December of 1963.

For many Pontiac lovers and musclecar fans, this is where it all started. We are proud to be able to present this incredible bit of muscle car history as part of the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, November 21-22, 2009.

Good Friends, Good Food and Good Fun!

2009-04-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

Our show flyers/applications have been printed and are ready to be dispersed to both spectators and exhibitors.So...The Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals Crew attended the Corvettes Unlimited Car Show and Swap Meet this past weekend to get started. As the weekend unfolded, we enjoyed time with our good friends, some good food and lots of good car show fun!

We arrived in St.Charles on Saturday and enjoyed Los Burritos Mexicanos with the Nickey Chicago Crew...MMM... Yummy and authentic Mexican Food. Of course just being in the Nickey Chicago Showroom is a treat in itself...Ask Stefano about his yellow on yellow Z28 with yellow houndstooth interior and the deluxe trim package...its gotta be a rare combination! Now that Bob Ashton is no longer manager of the Chevy Vettefest, he can admit to his love of the many Mopars in the Nickey Showroom!!

Sunday arrived and the crew attended the Corvettes Unlimited Show. Bill Braun, our judging supervisor, was showing a gorgeous 63 Z06 Vintage Racer. Not only was the car absolutely stunning, but the documentation was awe inspiring. Pictures, Race Logs and Complete History of the Car were all on display at the show. This ultra low mileage Z06 tanker is clearly one of the most documented original Z06 race car in existence, and in perfect condition too! Another long time friend of the MCACN Crew, Dave Glass from D&M , had a variety of cars including his beautiful 62 candy red gasser and incredible original Z06 Coupe, both outstanding Corvettes. There were many new faces and Corvettes and many old friends at the show too.

After the show on Sunday we savored the fabulous creations of Francesca's Vicinato with Bill and Debbie Jelinek of Route 66 Motorsports Fame ( Did you see the American Heroes Camaro that Route 66 Motorsports built and was auctioned for charity at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach for $500,000?? So awesome!!) These are people who are not only successful in business, but also truly caring and compassionate. The evening was a culinary delight, in addition to being a fun evening of conversation with fellow car enthusiasts and such fine folks!

We got to see tons of our friends over the weekend from the multitude of shows we have been involved with in the past. We got to hang out with many of your favorite swap meet vendors, several of the MCACN judges too! Many of our friends took show flyers, so be looking for them at shows and swap meets near you....or email us and and we will send you one.

Thanks to Don Picha, for the hospitality at the Corvettes Unlimited Show, Thanks to Stefano Bimbi and the Nickey Crew and Bill and Debbie Jelinek for the great eats and great company and Thanks to all our MCACN friends , who make doing what we love a possibility!

TIME CAPSULE 1970 Z28 TO BE FEATURED AT MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS

2009-04-10T06:04:00.000-07:00

Many of us dream of getting a call offering up an elusive, ultra low mileage and unmolested muscle car, but for most, it remains nothing more than a dream. For Stefano Bimbi, CEO of Nickey Chicago, this call has come in more than once. Usually, the potential seller has dreams of retiring to some warmer climate from the proceeds of the sale. More often than not, the “rare and desirable” car is nothing more than a typical used car and rarely worth anywhere near what the seller is hoping for.

Norman was driving home from work in St. Charles, IL. one day in his ’69 Impala Custom when he passed the Fenci-Tufo dealership, just like every other day. But this day would be different, as he spotted something that caught his eye. You see, a friend of Normans had a ’70 Z/28 that he had driven and it obviously left an impression on him, as he decided to trade in his trusty Impala for the Z/28.

Norman drove the car sparingly for the next couple years and only in good weather. One day while the car was parked, a friend of his sisters opened the door of his Fathers ’66 4-door Chevelle into the door of the Z/28. (See the ding in the photo?) This infuriated Norman so much, he put the car away and it has never seen the light of day since 1973. The oil and various filters had never been changed. The back seat had never been sat in. Even the air in the tires is original, according to Norman and his two brothers, who agreed to verify this and other facts on videotape.

Today, the car resides in the collection of Charley Lillard of Woodland, CA He has painstakingly preserved the car, and it is sure to be used as reference in the years to come as the ultimate unrestored and untouched second generation Camaro. This Camaro will remain as found with all of the marks, stickers, undercoating and even the door dent. The car was recently started up and Mr. Lillard is proud to state that it sounds as good today as it did when Norman took delivery back in 1970.

We are proud to announce that Mr. Lillard will be reuniting this incredible bit of Camaro history with the original owner at the Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, November 21-22, 2009. We encourage anyone interested in seeing exactly what a nearly 40 year old un-restored, ultra-low mileage and well preserved original car looks like to join us to witness this rare viewing in person.

VINTAGE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM JOINS MUSCLE CAR AND CORVETTE NATIONALS

2009-04-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, is proud to announce they have joined forces with Steve Shauger and the Vintage Certification Board to fill a unique niche in the Camaro and Chevelle hobby.

Vintage Certification is intended to promote the preservation of unrestored Camaros and Chevelles, whether whole or in part. Vintage Certification is not for everyone, but for those who believe in the philosophy that an original car showing wear is indeed preferable to one that is improperly restored. The Vintage Certification process will recognize this elite group of Camaros and Chevelles and their owners, and will encourage owners to retain and display these cars in their present unrestored condition. These cars are significant and the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals would like to promote this preservation.

Vintage Certification will represent a repository of factory correct standards by which the hobby and serious restorers can all benefit. Vintage Certifications will be divided into four divisions; Vintage Legend, for vehicles that are 80-90% unrestored in all areas combined, Vintage Legacy for vehicles that are unrestored in three out of five areas, Vintage Reference for vehicles unrestored in at least one Vintage Reference area and Icon for vehicles that have original-unrestored components disbursed throughout the vehicle.

Vehicles are accepted for Vintage Certification only after applying through Program Coordinator, Steve Shauger. Complete criteria and an outline of requirements can be obtained by calling Steve at (631) 514-9765.

Benefits of the Vintage Certification process include verification by the Vintage Certification Board of the vehicles pedigree and the owner will be provided with a complete listing of correct and incorrect components. An award plaque and Certificate will be presented upon completion of the verification process, documenting the results in detail.

The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet is proud to offer this service and to provide recognition and appreciation to the owners of these unique unrestored vehicles. Vintage Certification is limited to just a few candidates per show, and all applicants must be pre-approved. Look for this program to expand to other makes and models in the future.

Announcing!

2009-03-19T08:34:00.001-07:00

Preparations are well under way for the launch of something HUGE! The Nickey Chicago Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, Presented by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, will be taking place at the familiar Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, (greater Chicago), Illinois, November 21-22, 2009.

I am happy to say a fine group of true Enthusiast/Collectors are behind this venture. These guys are some of the most respected collectors who not only own, but drive, show and race some of the most desirebale Super Cars and Muscle Cars in the world.

With an true emphasis on Muscle Cars and the rarest Super Cars, this will be THE SHOW to see what you won't see at your typical car show or cruise night. Think Nickey, Mr. Norms, Yenko, Royal, COPO, Hemi, Boss and well...you get the idea!

The show will feature some of the country's best national vendors and respected members of the restoration community. Our Judging staff, led by Bill Braun, is second to none. We will have classes for those of you interested in intensive judging and also for those who prefer a more laid back approach, with a variety of Non Judged "Pick" awards.

We have learned much over the years from the many shows we have been involved with and will be applying what works and most importantly, will be listening to what YOU want to see at what will be the World's Largest, ALL INDOOR specialty Muscle Car & Super Car show and swap meet.

Please stay tuned for developments and let us know what we can do to produce a show that YOU want to be a part of, whether as a participant or as a spectator. Email for more info.