Summernats Chic Henry & ACT American Enthusiasts: Classic Restos - Series 46

Fletch catches up with Summernats legend, Chic Henry to chats about the origins of Summernats and how unique it was back then and still is today. Chic says Summernats is not just a cruise or a Show N Shine, or a Dyno Cell, it's a combination of all these things, in more than one location and always changing. It's the coming together of many motoring enthusiast tribes that make it such a unique event. Whilst visiting Chic, Fletch took a look at his prized possession a 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS that he first saw racing at Surfers Paradise back in the '60s. 

While in the ACT home of Summernats, Fletch takes the opportunity to meet up with two American Motoring enthusiasts. Bill, a Lincoln collector with his showpiece, a 1973 Lincoln Continental Town Car, a 460 V8 LHD vehicle in original condition. Bill, a passionate collector, refers to the Lincoln as 'sculpture on wheels'. He has a deep admiration and respect for these cars and says, 'They will never make cars like these again'. His passion for American cars started from an early age, seeing them driving around the ACT as embassy cars. 

Another American devotee is Luke with an immaculate 1969 Mercury Marquis with a 429 7-Litre V8 with 2 barrel carburettor, purchased out of Oklahoma in the USA seven years ago sight unseen. After a 2-3 month delivery, it arrived in Australia, and it did not disappoint. Beautifully appointed and presented the features of this marque were the forerunner for many Ford designed cars in Australia. Luke says despite the size of the vehicle, it's effortless to drive, extremely comfortable, and surprisingly fuel-efficient for a 7-litre engine.