This was a change from last year’s show. The time was moved from an all-day event to a new time of 10:00AM to 4:00PM. It was also moved to earlier in the year. Last year’s event was incredibly hot; this year the temp was about 15 degrees cooler. However, that being said, there was really no breeze, so it was still a warm day.

To be truthful, this car show is probably two hours too long. There are other issues with it that I probably won’t go into great detail about. Suffice it to say that it would be much better if the judging were done by either the spectators or judges. Large groups (clubs) that are a part of it can easily sway the awards to their own members when it is participant voting. BTW, this wasn’t just my opinion, I know of at least six other participants that felt this was an issue.

The other drawback, and this isn’t just at the Wylie show, is the “Import Class”. While there are all kinds of classes for trucks and cars. There is only one class for imports. This means that if you have a classic beetle, you are competing with 2025 Porsche in the same category. You will also be competing against modified beetles and other imports that have been modified (lowered, raised, chopped, and other customizations). There really needs to be more definition to the import class.

My suggestion to the organizers would be to have an import category broken down something like this:

  1. Best Original Vintage pre 1960
  2. Best Vintage Custom pre 1960
  3. Best Original Vintage 61 – 2000
  4. Best Vintage Custom 61-2000
  5. Best import Modern unmolested 2000 to Current
  6. Best Import Modern Custom 2000 to current

In this case above, original means unmolested. The custom category would cover all the other imports that have been modified. As I mentioned above, this doesn’t just apply to the Wylie show, I’ve seen this at many car shows here.

Anyway, that’s my take on it. It’s very difficult to compete a vintage car in a broad category like “Import”. However, the car show is more than just judging and awards. It’s a great time to meet new folks that share your interest in vintage cars. I’ve made a number of friends at cars shows. In addition. I always get folks asking me about my ’66, and then telling me stories about growing up with a Beetle, and their experiences.

If you like bluegrass music, great food, and a lot of sunshine and heat, the Wylie event may be just what the doctor ordered.

Here’s a few more pictures of the event. As you can see from the pictures, it’s very popular!