We certainly had a different perspective on the 2005 edition of the Performance World Custom Car and Truck show as we were there as competitors (I prefer to think of it as exhibitor but…) with our Canadian Rodder 1932 Ford 3-window coupe project. More on that experience HERE.

While being there with a car puts a different spin on things in terms of your time, I still took the time on various occasions to walk around and take everything in. When you’ve been involved in getting your car and “stuff” there you look at things in a different light as you observe the sole competitors, clubs, grouped displays and themes going on in the various halls. There’s a ton of work associated with displaying. Some clubs, like the Roadmates, display routinely. Hats off to them.

The Performance World team put together a show that combined elements from all current popular genres of the performance hobby – rods, customs, sport compacts, race cars, trucks, resto and traditional. I’m using the term “traditional” interchangeably with the controversial term Rat Rod. Call them what you will, traditionally styled cars with straightforward mechanicals and finishes have become an essential part of the mix.

Performance World announced that traditional cars would continue to be part of the overall offering at the show and so they should. However, to stay current, PWorld should monitor all themes and trends and present a cross section of everything. This is what has made it the top-notch show it is. Having said that, the show depends on our participation so consider putting your vehicle in the show. PWorld is NOT about show cars. It IS about providing a venue to showcase our treasures, suppliers and service providers and interact with other people of the same persuasion.

It was also announced that, in 2007, to celebrate the 75th. Anniversary of the 1932 Ford, they are hoping to feature 75 ’32 Fords. Works for me. Should be very cool. Let’s wish them luck with that one.

There’s still 2006 to look forward to and I trust that they will continue with their tradition of putting on an event that will appeal to a broad cross section of us.

Some pics we gathered: