Every year our very own Ed Buczeskie pens (types) a piece for Mopar Collector's Guide.  As the event manager for the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals, he's in touch with Mopar enthusiasts from around the world, many of whom make their way to Carlisle each July.  Our latest All About Cars blog post comes to you from the desk of Ed himself and takes a look at the 2022 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals!  So...without further adieu, let's learn all about the July 15-17 event at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds.
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Carlisle Chrysler Nationals Preview

It was clear that people were ready to get back out in 2021 and we saw that with a record setting 2,927 show cars! That beats the old record by more than 100 cars, which is bittersweet because we did it without our Canadian friends who typically bring another 120 Mopars. We have our fingers crossed in hopes that we break the 3,000-car mark this year, but even more important, we want to see our Canadian Mopar family again. We hope you’ll join us this July to help break the record and exceed 3,000 cars.

Speaking of huge, the all-Mopar swap meet is on track to sell out again. After selling out in 2019 and 2021 (we sold Car Corral spots for general vending to accommodate where we could), we added a few more spaces; don’t ask how!! We have just over 3,000 vending spaces in the swap meet and as of this writing (late March), we have less than 300 remaining. If you haven’t booked your spaces yet, contact us ASAP to see if we have any left.

In a lot of cases, there is an actual family connection with our Mopars and we’re going to highlight some of those vehicles this year with a Mopars in the Family display. We’re looking for cool cars for this, but we’re just as interested in the story. We’ve heard some incredible stories involving Mopars over the years and now we want to feature them. The only requirement for consideration is a family connection. We’ll know a great story when we hear it, so if you have one that you think qualifies, please submit an application.

We’re taking a slight detour for our next featured display, but this isn’t the first time we’ve done something untraditional. We did the first ever Barn Finds display way back in 2010 by filling Building Y with derelict Mopars. Our sanity was questioned but it turned out to be a hit. This year we’re straying from automobiles a bit and doing a non-automotive Mopar Collectibles Display. Imagine a building filled with go karts, bicycles, Sno Runners, boats, driving simulators and more…all with a Mopar connection. We’re still looking for cool items and we’re especially looking for things we might not know exist. You’re strongly encouraged to submit if you have something for this once-in-a-lifetime display. You won’t want to miss this one!

1972 was a full 50 years ago. Performance was waning but Mopar hadn’t given up. You could still get a 440, a 4-speed and a Dana 60 in a B-Body. 340s still rocked and came in some pretty attractive packages. We’ll have some of the nicest ‘72s and a couple of the rarest as we celebrate 50 years of the 1972 model year. If you have a truly unique ’72, go to www.CarlisleFeatures.com to submit an application.

Most people reading this probably remember when the Prowler came out. It was unlike anything an OEM had ever made. It was a factory-built street rod. It wasn’t all that long ago, right? It was 25 years ago! It’s kind of rare to see a Prowler these days but we’re expecting to have 50+ including some special ones in a big tent on the Showfield. From bone stock to highly modified, we’ll have them all.

We didn’t let Covid slow us down in 2020 and put our full effort into the show. We wanted everyone who attended to get the same experience and quality they have come to expect from Carlisle Events. Even though many 1970 Charger owners are from Canada, including the leader of the registry, we moved forward with the 50^th anniversary celebration. It was done with the understanding that there would be a redo as soon as Canadians could travel freely to the US. So this year will be the 1970 Charger 50^th Anniversary Redux. These owners are a passionate bunch and we’re expecting a record turnout!

We were tightlipped about last year’s collectible diecast offering because we weren’t sure if it would be done in time due to its complexity. We replicated John McCabe’s Old Skool Paint 1971 Charger dubbed “Mr. Hemi.” It was our coolest offering to date! This year we have the first in a two-part set. Do you remember the 1971 ‘Cuda ad with the 340 on the left and the Hemicuda on the right? This year will be the 340 ‘Cuda and the packaging will be the left side of the ad. Next year we’ll offer the Hemicuda with the right side of the ad. When displayed together, you’ll have the full ad.

We’re always adding something new to the show and this year we’re doing something we’ve never done. Join us at the stage on Friday morning for a “State of the Hobby” address. You’re reading MCG right now so you’re most likely familiar with Rob’s annual “State of the Hobby” column. However, this will be live and will involve several presenters including media, restorers, custom builders, Mopar businesses, SEMA reps, show promoters, racers and more. At the conclusion of the address there will be some really cool Mopar unveilings. Stay tuned!

In addition to the aforementioned highlights, the show will have Mel Major’s Mopar Survivors display, autocross shootout, special guests, Kids at Carlisle, women’s activities and so much more. Outside of the event hours, don’t forget to hang out with your Mopar family. We’ve been part of some pretty awesome hotel parking lot gatherings. You’re also welcome to stick around the fairgrounds to hang at your club tent, by your car, etc. Whatever you decide, make sure to make the most of your time at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Carlisle, PA, July 15-17. Go to www.CarlisleEvents.com for more information.

For two days in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, the automotive world was showcased in a way that is rarely duplicated at any other car show.  The Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals presented by eBay Motors took place May 13-14 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and it did just that and then some in 2022.  The show has always been a diverse and eclectic mix of cars and trucks from around the world, but this year, the mix was even greater with the rare and unique combining with the new and yet to be released.

1,802 vehicles populated the Showfield and that total is the third highest ever since the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals came to be.  Of those cars, one was the all-new 2023 Nissan Z, a model that won’t be available to the consumer until late in 2022 or early 2023.  In addition, the yellow version on grounds is just one of a handful of show cars known to exist and best of all, regardless of color, the 2023 Z was making its enthusiast car show debut at Carlisle.  A popular draw, the yellow Z sat front and center in Building Y and was possibly the most photographed car at Carlisle.

Not far from THE Z were display buildings laced with some of the best of the best from around the world.  This included French cars in and around Building R, BMWs, Dune Buggies and Subarus in Building T, dozens of Zs in and around Building Y, Porsches just inside of Gate 3, and race prepared cars in the paddock on the east side of the grounds.

Those who ignored their weather apps in advance of the car show and simply came to Carlisle anyway stayed dry throughout the weekend, dodging just one late afternoon shower on Friday.  Otherwise, it was warm, with sun, and hot cars all around.

While the Z was unique in that it’s not available yet, there were more rare and unique rides on display in 2022.  With more than half a dozen countries represented, guests were able to check out a Toyota Century, Honda Beat, Honda S660, VW XL1, Volvo 340 and much more.  In addition, the club scene was hopping with the SAABs at Carlisle group taking home the largest club award, while Club NVUS was tapped as the coolest club winner.

The Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals also became a stopping point for a group of European car lovers who were trekking cross-country from Los Angeles to Baltimore in a 1986 Citroen 2CV.  The car turned plenty of heads on their drive and at the show as they worked to raise awareness for Kennedy’s Disease.  From Carlisle, the car was slated to make a few more stops before it gets shipped to England.  From there, the journey continues to Rome, Italy.

Speaking of cars in motion, the Datsun and Nissan Z cars took part in an on grounds parade, the Volvos did too and with multiple competitions, plus autocross and drifting hosted by NICO Club, and all new, rolling burnouts and donuts, there were plenty of opportunities to see the show cars come to life.

As the final day of the 2022 show concluded, awards were posted for those who participated in professional judging.  eJudged.com was back at it this year, offering their expertise to a few hundred car owners.  Those who didn’t win still had the chance to talk with the judges to better their chances for future considerations.

The 2023 version of the event is happening May 12-13 and registration for it is now open.  Up next for Carlisle Events is the Carlisle Ford Nationals presented by Meguiar’s June 3-5.  For details on this event, advanced arrival information or to check out the winner’s list and photos from Import & Performance weekend, visit CarlisleEvents.com.

Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI:PK), will celebrate its 60^th anniversary at the Carlisle Ford Nationals presented by Meguiar’s on June 3-5, 2022, in Carlisle, Penn. Festivities will include a concept vehicle introduction, factory display and Team Shelby East Coast Grand Nationals integration.  

Each year, the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds hosts Ford fans from across the country and more than 3,200 vehicles on the National Parts Depot Showfield. In addition to the impressive cars and crowds, the weekend includes displays, special themes and automotive celebrities.

“Shelby American has become an international symbol of high-performance motoring during the past 60 years,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “We’ll honor that reputation by displaying our past, present and potential future at the Carlisle Ford Nationals including the Shelby Super Snake, Shelby Mustang Mach-E concept and supercharged muscle trucks. A huge number of Team Shelby members will join the East Coast Grand Nationals to watch us unveil a concept car in the historic Shelby display.”

After retiring as a Le Mans-winning driver, Carroll Shelby established Shelby American in 1962. His first car was the Ford small block powered Shelby Cobra roadster, which he promptly took racing. It was followed by the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, which won its class at Le Mans in 1964. Shelby American introduced an all-new big block Ford motored Shelby Cobra and high-performance version of the Ford Mustang (Shelby GT350). Over the years, Shelby has offered sports cars, trucks, hot hatches and muscle cars. The company’s current vehicle in the lineup builds upon its rich legacy.

One of the most exciting moments of the weekend may be the introduction of a Shelby concept car by Patterson, surrounded by Team Shelby members, at 3 PM ET on Friday, June 3. The event is open to the media, as well as anyone attending the Carlisle Ford Nationals, inside Building T. The concept is a tribute to one of the most celebrated cars in automotive history and will gauge the demand for a limited series of the vehicle.

“We are honored that Shelby American has chosen the Carlisle Ford Nationals as the host location for their special unveiling,” said event manager Ken Appell. “This event is recognized by many as the best of its type and its annual growth would not be possible without our guests and partners like Shelby American. I can’t thank the Shelby American team enough for being with us and I encourage you to make your way to Carlisle next month, not only for this historic unveiling, but to experience first-hand THE biggest all-Ford themed car show in the world.”

Team Shelby will do its part to boost attendance. The international club is holding the annual East Coast Grand Nationals with track sessions at Pocono Raceway and other activities, including a parade to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds on Friday, June 3. Team Shelby will have its own hospitality area and is encouraging Shelby owners to attend with their vehicles to break the record for the most Shelby vehicles in one place.

Ford Motor Company is returning with walk-arounds focused on the Ice White Mach 1, Ice White Mach-E, Shelby GT500, Raptor, and more.  Ford will have a display dedicated to the electrification revolution showcasing both the Mach-E and Shelby Mach-E GT.  Patterson will be part of a Ford’s presentation that includes the Mustang Shelby GT500 and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

In addition to the show field, the cars and trucks will hit the streets of downtown Carlisle on Saturday night for the annual Ford Parade and Street Party. Historically, nearly 400 cars from the show itself roll into town for the community to check out. There will be multiple activities that put the wheels in motion including a rolling exhaust contest, autocross ride-alongs, and the Real Street Shootout (autocross).

The Carlisle Ford Nationals is actively taking registrations for the Showfield, vendor registrations for the automotive flea market, and selling discounted spectator tickets in advance of the June 3-5 offering. Learn more about the competitions, special displays, and get involved today by calling (717) 243-7855 or online at CarlisleEvents.com.

Annually more than 500,000 guests trek to the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds for automotive events.  The car shows at Carlisle as they are known by many, draw people from around the world and are some of the largest events of their type anywhere.

While the facility is now jointly owned by the Miller families, that wasn't always the case.  In fact, between 1974 and 1981, Bill and Chip Miller (no relation), rented the grounds.  So, what happened at Carlisle prior to Post War '74 and the birth of what we now know as Carlisle Events?


(Carlisle Fairgrounds circa 1953. Image courtesy of the Cumberland County Historical Society)

Our latest All About Cars takes us back to the early 20th century and showcases the history of the grounds, the fairs that were once held here, and how the property has evolved over the years.

Carlisle PA Fairgrounds History - Learn More

There's a lot of great automotive content on the web.  Some of that content is informative, some is entertaining.  This piece we noticed on Jalopnik might just be both.  Author Owen Bellwood shares his take on the worst cars of the 80s.  While some of these may be "the worst" according to Owen, it's a safe bet that if you have one and you show it, it draws LOTS of attention.

Without further adieu, let's took a look at Owen's story and you can decide for yourself if they truly are just the worst!

The Worst Cars of the 1980s - Read the FULL Story and Check Out the Gallery