Grand Prix Organizers Expecting Record Number Of Classic Cars This Year

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- One by one, vintage vehicles roll out of the past and into a lot at the Waterfront Mall. The owners are proud to show them off.

"It started out as a low box, junkyard built truck," John Stiles says of his bright orange '64 pickup truck. "And eventually, you do one thing it leads to another, and before you know it, you're knee-deep in this."

Bob Walendziewicz, of Munhall, says America's fascination with classic cars shows no sign of fading.

"I think it's getting bigger. There's a lot of guys getting into it, and buying older cars and everything," he said.

Vintage Grand Prix Car Cruise organizer Don Privett agrees.

"The collection and driving of classic cars is growing all across the country," he adds.

Grand Prix organizers expect 2,400 cars in Schenley Park this weekend. That's the most ever, in the event's 32-year history.

With car shows popping up on cable TV, customizing vehicles is a hobby that just keeps growing.

"It takes you back and you can work on them easy," says James Hovan, owner of a '69 Ford XL.

Don Cornelius, of Carrick, customized his 1950 Mercury for comfort.

"The interior is rolled and pleated," he said. "There's a record player. Rolled and pleated white naugahyde interior, covering the steering wheel."

With air conditioning and power seats, he's not trying to create a museum piece

"If you can't have fun with it, why even have it?" he asks.

For more information on the Vintage Grand Prix, visit http://www.pittsburghvintagegrandprix.com/

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