Muscle car display draws hundreds

Grant Thwaites and Declan Fogarty, 10 with an AC Cobra replica. Photo/George Novak

Everything from Model As to 2016 Mustangs were on display at the All Ford Day Car Show in Mount Maunganui yesterday.

Ford Muscle Car Club president Gus Old managed to squeeze 419 Fords of all ages, makes and models into the field in front of the Mount Maunganui Sports Club.

The owners, who came from Tauranga, Taupo, Hamilton and everywhere in between, found their spot, popped their bonnets and discussed specs with car lovers.

There was a diverse range of vehicles - everything from a wooden replica Model A Huckster and mint condition Fairlanes to vintage and modern Mustangs and GTs.

The Bay of Plenty Times spotted Declan Fogarty, 10, and Grant Thwaites checking out a green replica AC Cobra.

The lads were left to explore the Fords while the female contingent of their party hit the Mount shops, Mr Thwaites said.

"We've left the girls downtown and we are looking at some cool cars trying to find which we like the best."

Model A Huckster Replica 2015. Photo/George Novak

Declan and Mr Thwaites had not decided on their favourites, although some serious contenders were the Huckster and three XY GTs.

"We looked in the limo, which was awesome. I've really liked looking at all the motors," Declan said.

Mr Old said the newest car at the show was a brand-new ST Focus brought along by sponsors Ultimate Ford. There were also two "almost brand new" 2016 Mustangs.

Mr Old said the event had been organised through word of mouth and Facebook, as well as signs around town.

"We've been doing it a few years now, we know we can fit 400 cars in here and this year we managed 419.

"We had about 15 to 20 active members of the club that helped put the day on today."