Records Broken at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals

CARLISLE, Pa. - July 16, 2014 - PRLog -- Something happened at Carlisle in 2014 as part of the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals that shows how much loyalty there is in the Mopar hobby.  What might that be?  A record total of showfield cars registered for the event.  Given that the event saw three perfect days of weather and that enthusiasts for the brands spotlighted at this show are very passionate about their cars, this created a perfect storm of awesomeness for the event.  The past, present and future of Dodge and its sister brands were onsite, plus there were hands on experiences, special celebrations and more.  All of that allowed those who attended to leave with a smile on their face and memories they won’t soon forget.

Though the event is just three days on paper, it was essentially a four-day happening.  This was because Early Bird Thursday at Carlisle brings people to town for not only a great shopping experience within the massive (and sold out) all-Mopar themed swap meet, but because the evening hosts a free cruise-in at Faulkner Dodge Ram.  This cruise, hosted by the Mopar Rebellion Car Club, saw nearly 400 cars roll in and offered food, music and the joys of catching up with “old friends” that many had not seen since last year’s show.

Once the gates opened at 7 a.m. Friday, there was no stopping the positive vibes that this show emanates.  Guests enjoyed a combination of classic cars and trucks as well as the chance to experience thrills unavailable to many.  Via Dodge, there were test drives of their latest products, plus everyone who got behind the wheel of a new Dodge was able to strap in with professional driver Leah Pritchett and experience the Scat Pack Thrill Ride.  Further, Hotchkis Sport Suspension was onsite offering autocross ride alongs and Brenner Chrysler Jeep showcased various Jeep models in conjunction with the Rausch Creek Off Road Playground.

Along with the hands on offerings, there was shopping via the swap meet, car corral and Manufacturer’s Midway, plus with cars of all eras onsite, there was no shortage of photo opportunities.  Friday also hosted a 100 year Dodge Birthday party and Collector Car Appreciation Day.  The highlight of the weekend, however; took place around 4:30 p.m. Saturday when Ralph Gilles, Senior Vice President Product Design Chrysler LLC, CEO SRT Motorsportbrought the crowd to its feet with a stunning burnout powered by the 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat.  This car comes factory with 707 horse power under the hood and to date, the corresponding video of it on the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals Facebook page has nearly 3,000 shares.

Special Displays were also a popular draw.  Buildings G, T and Y had something for everyone to see.  G welcomed a Race Hemi reunion, Y had a special A12 showcase and T focused on a general invitational display.  Muscle Motors and Mopar Muscle Magazine also played a key role in this year’s event with an engine giveaway.  The winner was drawn Saturday and she was onsite to happily accept her prize.

Finally, one of the more popular happenings annually took place Saturday too as the Mopar Collector’s Guide presented its annual Hall of Fame.  There were a dozen inductees in 2014 including Herb McCandless.  He was given a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to the brand and to racing.

Though this year’s event has concluded, preparations are underway for the 2015 show.  Next year’s fun runs July 10-12 and features an ‘80s celebration with some ‘50s tail fins thrown in for good measure.  Save the date because it’ll be a fun one!