American Graffiti

Updated April 9, 2018, to include Day No. 4 photos.

Charlotte Motor Speedway’s AutoFair is a classic car extravaganza.

The twice annual Charlotte AutoFair never disappoints, even when the weather is less than cooperative. Rainy skies and falling temperatures ruled Day No. 3 of the Spring 2018 Charlotte AutoFair, keeping crowds to a minimum.

On the other hand, if you ventured out as we did, those same small crowds made it easier to capture the moment. In this case, we found ample opportunities to take photos without worrying about people getting in our way. The following two dozen photos are the work of my contributing photographer, Arsis Fruritch, and are are included here for your enjoyment.

These Chevrolet Corvairs were on display for judge review.

Jeep Grand Cherokee — Do your wheels hang low? They do if your Jeep was modified for extreme off-road antics.

Jeep Wrangler — Jeep clubs toughed out the rough weather all day Saturday.

This “California Special” caught our eye, one of dozens of first-generation Ford Mustangs on display.

Car Corral

Typically, more than 1,500 cars ring the car corral, but today the numbers were below 100, at least in the late afternoon when we paid our visit. The corral is a top spot for haggling and where deals are finalized with a handshake, cash and title transfer at the on-site NCDMV desk.

As dank as the conditions were, this yellow hot rod brightened the infield.

Chevrolet Impala Wagon — This Chevrolet Impala wagon is great for hauling the family and for kicking butt.

The lone Ford Thunderbird present was this stylish one dressed in black.

This 1966 Chevrolet C10 could become your next project truck.

1934 Ford Pickup Truck — As you can see, this 2018 Ford pickup truck has a $45,000 asking price.
Chances are you can talk this owner down.

Does this Chevrolet Camaro SS hardtop coupe speak to you?

A 1964 Plymouth Belvedere with a Hemi engine? But of course!

The price of this 1966 Ford Mustang with a 289 cubic inch engine was a reasonable $12,900.

Chevrolet — Is this your next project car?

A 1973 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 could be all yours.

Our favorite car corral vehicle may be this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air.

The Trakit Motorsports people had not one, not two, but five customized models on hand,
including this Dodge Challenger.

This classic Chevrolet truck is ready to bring a new set of tires your way.

Showcase Pavilion Features the Classics

Moving inside and away from the rain had become a priority by late in the afternoon, something we accomplished by visiting the Showcase Pavilion. True to its name, the pavilion is where we found Chevrolet Trucks marking its 100th anniversary, movie cars and assorted other beauties.

Chevrolet Apache — Did someone say Apache? In Hulk Green, of course!

1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS — Sure, why not show a 1971 Chevelle SS in proximity of the Chevrolet Trucks exhibit?

If you have ever seen the “Blues Brothers” movie, then you understand this Dodge Monaco police car.

“Where were you in 62?” was a saying attributed to the 1973 hit, American Graffiti.
This 1958 Chevrolet Impala played an important role in this classic flick.

2018 Charlotte AutoFair

If you’re still wanting to visit the Speedway for the Spring 2018 Charlotte AutoFair, you have one final chance on Sunday. Gates open at 8 a.m. and close early at 4 p.m. Then make plans to return to the fall show, Sept. 6-9, 2018, at the same location.