Amid increasing gas prices and a struggling U.S. automotive industry, America’s love for fast, powerful, fuel thirsty cars was still evident during Sunday’s 18th annual Father’s Day Prison City Ramblers Car Show With more than 314 muscle, classic and sports cars on display, Rich Daly, who was showing a 2005 Ford GT, said he doubted Americans will ever lose their fascination with speed and horsepower.
“People are either going to buy a fast car or a fuel efficient car, and cars like this (Ford GT) are the American dream. This is what people want to have.”
As he started up the car in order to rev the engine for some spectators, several people repeatedly asked Daly how much the car costs or how much horsepower it has.
Each time Daly happily responded with $157,300 and 550 horsepower.
When asked if the car is fast, Daly only has to refer to the vehicle’s racing heritage.
Ford designed the GT as its challenge to Ferrari’s domination of the Le Mans 24 hour race in the 1960s, beating the Italian company in four consecutive races starting in 1966.
“This car will do 200 mph easily, but if you’re going to race it, you have to take it to the track.”
Martin Black, who owns the Fairlane, said he describes the car as a head turner for its ability to catch anyone’s attention as he cruises down the highway.
“I think Americans are in love with their cars and that’s why you have all these people here,” Black said. “I don’t think that will ever change. Hopefully my grandchildren and great-grandchildren will pick up the ball from here and run with it.”
