The traditional antidote to the glitz and glamour of Monterey week was back in force this year, with a massive selection of classics you'd never expect to see at a high-end concours decorating the Concours d'LeMons lawn. In truth, the offering was much more enticing than you would expect; among the more ratty classics were some much-loved rarities, such as Michael King's Chevrolet Vega.
"I've had the car for about three years, it's one of four in our collection," said King. "We've also got a '75 model in black, a '76 and a Vega van." The cars form part of the Kings' 85-strong collection. Michael and his brother Larry travelled up from Fresno for the event, and it was their first time at LeMons.
"My favourite car from the collection is a 1965 four-speed Stingray with a 327 motor." And the worst car he's owned? "I've never had a bad Chevy!"
Kirk Wentland and Larry Camuso from San Jose also brought a car from their collection, which is 100 in number. Their 1981 Stutz Blackhawk was gleaming, and drew a massive crowd of onlookers. "It was built in Torino," said Wentland. "It started out as a four-door Pontiac Bonneville before being completely reskinned."
Not only was the car in fantastic condition, but it also had an interesting history: it was bought new by Sammy Davis Jr as a gift for his wife. The marriage didn't last.
