If you’re into cars, this is for you. If you’re not, this is still for you. In a world where materialistic things (unfortunately) take priority, sometimes window shopping is the next best thing. Insert, the Los Angeles Auto Show at The Convention Center downtown, right across from The Staples Center, which is home to the both the Lakers and the Clippers.
This isn’t just any car show, it’s the car show. The event features new vehicles, test drives, auto technology, customized rides, and more. Tickets started at just $5 to $12, and they were open on Thanksgiving. That’s commitment.
I found myself completely overwhelmed by the size of this showcase. There were cars not only in the main Convention Center but in buildings across the street. I first landed my eyes on this Aston Martin and the track “Aston Martin Music” by Rick Ross and Drake immediately started playing in my head. It was going to be a good day.
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It all began at the Galpin Auto Sports showcase, which was located by the West Hall parking. It was November 17, and the event was not open to the public yet. Special thanks to Junior, the event coordinator for Galpin, who was able to get me a media wristband (the plug). That Aston Martin DB11 definitely set the bar high, priced at $400,000.
This beautiful Pink Panther mobile caught everyone’s eye, for obvious reasons. It stood out like a sore thumb, in the best way. For those of you who were around long enough, you knew it was straight out of the 1963 The Pink Panther film. George Barris, known for his custom cars in Hollywood, is the man responsible for the beauty.
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But, if you’re like me, you think of the one and only RiFF RaFF. Not only did he release an album titled Peach Panther, but it came with a film. By the way, this luxurious whip is not for sale. The driver’s seat was this tiny, tight, claustrophobic opening at the very front of the car, with seats in the back reminiscent of a long limousine. Alcohol was available inside.
Another one for the books. The Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine van. This vehicle will leave anyone with nostalgia. I miss being a kid. Apparently, this one isn’t for sale either. But if it was, it would probably go for around $150,000.
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These are the sleek new 2017 Lincoln Continentals. These spa-like sedans run for an average of $47,000.
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Vroom vroom. This Galpin Rocket is a 725 horsepower beast.
Gulf Ford Focus RS with a Gulf Livery paint job and White 18” Fifteen52 wheels. Get yours for $58,687.
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2017 Jaguar F-PACE with Forgiato 22” wheels and a rose gold finish. Starting at just $59,093.
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This Spyker C8 Preliator can dance. V8 engine with 525 horsepower.
As an FYI, these are all cars in the Galpin Hall Of Customs. I now leave to run across the street to the main building (South Hall).
Ty Dolla $ign brought back the Maseratis tough with “Blasé.” I asked for the nicest one, and they showed me this black sedan which looked extremely basic. This sports car was next in line. They go for an average of $70,000.
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These $100,000 Audi’s stole the show. These new R8 sportscars are at the top of the chain. Everyone was getting in and out of the driver’s seat to see how it felt.
Sing it one good time: Cars rule everything around me.
