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Vintage Cars On Parade In Pittsburgh Grand Prix

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Classic car buffs were treated to a celebration of the automobile in four places around Pittsburgh Wednesday.

Before they got there, the cars paraded through Downtown as part of the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix.

"Most importantly, it's the charities, the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School," John Putzier with the Greater Pittsburgh Auto Dealers Association said. "All the money goes to them, and we are hoping to up the ante for them and hopefully make this a long-term relationship."

Whether your favorite is a Ford or a Ferrari, there is literally something for everybody in the Grand Prix Parade. The question is when you talk to the owners -- what's your story about your car?

"Well, we like them all, but the Model A has a special place in my heart, at least," car owner Chuck Berrington of Forest Hills said. "When I was in high school, a friend had one, and I kind of grew up with that."

But don't think for a moment that this is just an old boys' club.

"Four-cylinder, 40 horsepower, Model A," Jeanne Berrington said. "And we cruise around at 45 miles per power."

Many of the cars are significantly newer, such as a vintage Pontiac Firebird owned by John Ponikvar of Cecil Township.

"I would not trade it," Ponikvar said. "No, I have had offers to sell it. I won't sell it."

Many are faster, like a limited edition Leguna Seca Boss 302 Mustang, owned by Dan Taylor of Grove City.

"I remember when I was younger watching these cars round the race track with Parnelli Jones and Bob Bondurant and those guys driving those classic, wonderful cars," Taylor said. "So, this is a re-creation of the celebration of that same time."

Taylor bought his car to give to his grandson, but the boy won't get it until he is into his 20s. It also means Taylor has to look for some more cars.

"There is just something about having grandchildren that's the most wonderful thing in the world to me," he said. "So, I just wanted to pass on a little legacy from Taylor to Taylor on down the line so each grandchild is going to get a Mustang."

Who knows? Maybe some day, they can drive them in the parade of classic beauties.

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