Frankenmuth Auto Fest
Written by Keith Fudge

For the past twenty years, the residents of Frankenmuth , Michigan , have played host to one of the finest automotive events in the country: the Frankenmuth Autofest!

According to the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce, this community draws more than three million visitors annually! Going to Frankenmuth is like going to Bavaria ; there are several specialty shops, fine restaurants, and of course, an Oktoberfest! But, last September the town of Frankenmuth was all about cars and Dennis Gage and the crew were fortunate enough to attend the festivities.

After he arrived, Dennis found Tony D'Anna, Event Coordinator for Autofest, who told him that there were 83 cars in attendance at the first show, this year Tony estimated that there would be 3,000 cars registered for the event! Tony said that all 4,400 residents of the town turn out to help with this event and that Autofest is an all volunteer show with more than 350 folks working full-time! There are three miles of what is referred to as the “main drag” where cars are cruised and shown, and after the cruising the streets close for a night of music featuring a dozen bands playing music of various styles! There is also great local cuisine that can be sampled and there is never a loss of anything to do! The Bavarian Lodge is a hub of excitement and features many specialty shops as well. But as we said, the focus of this event was cars and Dennis soon headed out to see some of the fine vehicles on display!

It was a sweet 1936 Chevy Roadster that first caught Dennis's attention. Owned by David Wendell, this drop-top beauty was originally a Chevy Master Coupe! Powered by a 400 cubic inch small block that makes approximately 400 horsepower, this baby is also equipped with a little pick-me-up called nitrous oxide! On the interior, the roadster is equipped with a killer stereo and a gorgeous interior fashioned by Dave, his wife, and his son. He told Dennis that the car runs 12.50s in the quarter, and that he drives it everywhere! In fact, he has even driven it to California ! Way to go, David! Next, Dennis found Tim Volz and his stunning white 1955 T-Bird. Restored to original, this car has been Tim's property for six years. Purchased in Arizona , Tim said that in 1985 the car had been repainted, and the motor had been rebuilt. Tim said that he also owns a 1955 Chevy and that he drives it quite a bit, but the T-Bird is saved for more special occasions. Tim, it's a beauty!

The Frankenmuth Autofest is more than a car show; it's a cultural celebration! There is fun for the entire family, and if you would like more information on this year's event, give them a call at 989-652-6964. You can also find out more on the web at www.frankenmuthautofest.com . So, until our next road trip, remember, “Honor the timeless classics. Happy Motoring!”