In the final days of Americana 2023, there is a massive turnout for the cruise to Stratford.
Fletch catches up with a few participants before hitting the road. One vehicle that caught Fletch's eye is Graham's 1956 Imperial, which has a strong military history, owned by two US Secret Service Agents and an Army Pilot.
The Imperial was a luxury vehicle of the time worth $5,700, equivalent to the three standard sedans. Graham's is fully optioned, including the mandatory record player. Graham still has the original bill of sale, purchased for $8,005 in 1956. This car still runs like a dream with a 354 Hemi powerplant and 280 HP.
The cruise continues to Harra for the Annual Americana Drag Racing event, where owners put their vehicles to the test. While the others park in the town centre, taking over the streets and blocking intersections and roundabouts with their impressive cars.
Fletch catches up with a final few enthusiasts and their cars at this year's event.
There is Andrew, a young owner of a 1963 Cadillac Coupe Deville in original condition, with just one respray and a few love taps, which Andrew believes adds to the car's history. He enjoys driving it and smiles every time he takes it out. He's the next generation of enthusiasts.
Then there is Gabe, who owns a Street Rod & Custom Interior business in California and has visited New Zealand to check out Americana. He is the special guest of organiser John Rae and responsible for the interior styling of his wife's 55 Chevy, a magnificent job and testament to the sensational style of his work.
Next is Daryl, who, from the early age of 19 as an apprentice panel beater, always wanted an American car because there weren't many around. He borrowed money from a friend to buy the Chevy for $1,700 and slowly rebuilt the vehicle. Externally it is beautifully presented in the original colour scheme of Regional Turquoise and Indian Ivory. Underneath the bonnet, it bears no resemblance to the original car, with a fully modified engine and so much more.
The following car is a little more exotic, Jolene's 1929 Graham Paige 2-door coupe, an outstanding example of an exquisite and high-quality vehicle for the time - it's been a labour of love for Jolene and her husband, who loves old cars and restoring them.
Americana is a lifestyle event celebrating American culture and those elaborate motor vehicles built in a different age. Over 2,000 drivers and passengers experienced Americana in 2023. Why not experience it yourself in 2024? The people of New Zealand will make you so welcome.
