Mark Griffin (left) and his mate Manu Reihana are fiercely loyal to rival car manufacturers. Photo / Paul Estcourt
The biggest three-day party in Hamilton's history is over and bragging rights belong to Holden for now.
But as the grandstands and concrete barriers start to come down, and petrolheads celebrate, the debate between Holden and Ford fans is likely to go on for some time yet.
For
Manu Reihana, a 34-year-old truck driver from Mangere, the choice is simple: "Ford all the way, bro."
"My honest opinion is that it does the same job as a Holden for half the price," he said.
But his mate and banter partner Mark Griffin was sure there's nothing quite like a Holden.
"The last bit summed it up. You're so bloody cheap and that's why you bought one," he told Mr Reihana.
The pair were among the thousands enjoying the Hamilton 400 action from the city's Hinemoa Park, where motorsport fans proudly displayed their colours and allegiances.
Mr Griffin, who quietly admitted to having owned a Ford Falcon previously, said that after splitting up with his previous partner and selling his home, the first thing he did was "score a new car, mate".
His choice: a Commodore SS05, for which he paid $33,000 two years ago.
But Mr Reihana said his 2002 Ford Fairmont Ghia, for which he paid $28,000, probably did just as good a job.
Both picked the race's eventual winner, Garth Tander (Holden), and agreed the better-financed teams probably had an advantage, although there was technically little difference between the cars involved in racing.
But despite this, Mr Griffin said they'd probably be set in their ways "for life, mate".
"Between the [Ford] XR8 and the SS Holden Commodore, they drive pretty much the same but the comfort is in the SS, while the Ford probably has more bells and whistles.
"Regardless, I still reckon Fords are crap."
HOW THEY RATED IT
Tony Cochrane, chairman V8 Supercars: 9/10 - Certainly it's in the high nines. They have a year's experience under them and this is a tremendous start. For the first year I think it's right up there with the best.
Greg Murphy, New Zealand motorsport ace: 9/10 - For the first time, it's got to be close to a 10. It's been awesome. There's never been a first-time event in history that has been perfect, but they have the right people involved in the council, which can only make things even better for next year. I think we should all be pretty proud.
Bob Simcock, Hamilton Mayor: 12/10 - With what's been achieved and how it's gone I would have to say it's been a 12 out of 10.
Manu Reihana, Ford fan: 8/10 - I can't see bugger all except on the big screen. But the noise is great.
Mark Griffin, Holden fan: 10/10 - An excellent three days, mate. We're definitely coming back next year.
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