IHRA Undergoes Ownership Change Determined To Focus On Drag Racing

by Guy L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

Big news hit today that the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has been sold. In a release from the new ownership group, IHRA Entertainment LLC, it was announced that a collaboration between the Palm Beach International Raceway and Memphis International Raceway had formed to acquire the IHRA and take over it's management from Feld Motor Sports. The IHRA has been one of the nations premiere drag racing bodies for over 43 years.
 

IHRA Drag Racing


IHRA has sanctioned over 100 drag racing venues in six divisions throughout the United States and Canada. It's four major national series, Nitro Jam®, Thunder Jam®, Summit Pro-Am and Summit Super Series, have become immensely popular with the IHRA's 12,000 plus racing members. They also own and publish Drag Review Magazine®, a full color monthly magazine covering IHRA events and news.

We've been big fans of IHRA drag racing for many years. We attend many of their events, and we're lucky that there are great ones available to us in Texas. We're optimistic about the announced changes, and the reported focus on drag racing. It had been noted over the past several years that some of the organization's momentum had been lost to non-drag events such as Monster Jam. This may be a positive step to ensure that quality IHRA events continue.

The news owners have assumed all assets of the IHRA, including the sanctioning body itself, the four national series, and Drag Review Magazine.  Jason Rittenberry will serve as CEO of the IHRA. "Today is a landmark day for our Company, the ownership group and the IHRA. IHRA has shown that their entertainment business model is viable and the company can grow," he announced. "We want to build on the foundation that IHRA has built over the past 40 years and provide the structure and resources it needs to be successful long term in this new motorsports environment."

Aaron Polburn will serve as President & General Manager of IHRA Motorsports. It seems that the new owners are committed to keep drag racing at the forefront of activities for the IHRA. “This is a very exciting time for IHRA," he states. "We now have a team whose total focus is on IHRA, Nitro Jam® and Thunder Jam®. These are incredibly successful guys who will bring a unique vision along with the resources to grow all facets of our business. They are also 'car guys' who have a passion for all forms of motorsports. That is a combination that will serve us well in the coming years. This is a great time to be an IHRA fan, racer, sponsor or member track.”

Departing management head Charlie Mancuso, President of Feld Motor Sports, commented, “Our business has evolved to focus more on other Feld Motor Sports productions like Monster Jam® and Nuclear Cowboyz®, so we are pleased that IHRA’s new owners will be able to expand its offerings and maintain the high event quality for which the brand is known.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Guy L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Guy Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together he and his wife Andrea share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.

Interest in Classic Car Rentals Explodes

by Andrea L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

Today the message has become clear. Interest in Classic Car Rentals is at an all-time high!

The most-read article of our blog is an article with a list of companies which offer Classic Car Rentals in Texas. We've noticed a dramatic increase over the last two to three months. We get callers almost daily now asking for referrals all across the country. Why this may be happening I can't say for sure, but it would seem logical with the tough economy many seeking the thrill of driving a terrific old classic car or truck are turning to rentals rather than making the big investment in owning one.


1947 Buick Roadmaster


This is troubling news for many, and good news for others. Certainly the rental companies are happy -whether a privately owned vehicle which is rented out for weddings and special occasions, or larger shops that may have a half dozen or more antique cars and trucks, classic cars and/or muscle cars to offer up for short-term rentals.

The news for classic car dealers or consignment shops where they sell classic vehicles is probably more bleak, as it does signal a problematic slow-down with potential buyers. Basic economics have shown us that when "cash in" slows down, "cash out" does too.

This economy continues to trouble businesses that deliver discretionary products and services. Big-ticket toys and extravagances tend to be put on hold until people feel more secure about their jobs, cash flow, debts already carried, and a host of other factors. The trend towards renting over buying is indeed troubling.

But, these specialty automotive rentals can be hard to find. They're just not available everywhere. I found that out while researching my Texas list. That's why I want to help those who are looking for quality classic car rentals. Look for my upcoming list that expands out of Texas and across the country!

For those still interested in purchase over rental, Guy Algar states, "Don't lose hope. This can be an excellent time to pick up a great project while the market is down and some need to cash out. You might consider a restoration in stages, usually in the order: engine, performance, wheels and suspension, body, paint, trim and interior. Remember, you can drive your classic without a fresh coat of paint and a few blemishes, but you'll get nowhere fast without a well-running engine! Staging your fix up project can make your purchase possible, relieve a lot of stress and worry, and it sure helps the wallet. Consulting with a Project Planner like myself can help you make the best decisions. Planning allows you to break down steps in big chunks or in small steps depending on your budget and allowed timeframe." We'll take a look at Project Planning Services in an article next week.

In the meantime, we're excited that the interest in classic cars, muscle cars and old cars and trucks in general is still alive and well, even if the playing-field has changed somewhat.

REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Classic Car News - Buying A Classic Car or Muscle Car
Classic Car News - Classic Car Rentals Available In Texas
Classic Car News - Estimating Old Car Restorations

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.

Original Batmobile Sold for $4.2 Million At Auction

by Guy L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

You'd be hard-pressed to find a kid who grew up in the 60's who isn't familiar with TV's Batman & Robin. And, one of the coolest things was the Batmobile, which fired the imaginations of countless future motorheads and gearheads all around the country!


The Batmobile
George Barris custom design


My wife Andrea and I got the opportunity to meet George Barris several years ago, and saw the original Batmobile up close and in person. It was like being taken back to my youth. What "wows" today is learning that even though the country is currently in one of the worst recessions in recent memory, this same car at the Barrett-Jackson auction last weekend drew an incredible $4.2 million!  I can think of dozens of "Holy _____ Batman" expressions that come to mind.

George Barris, who designed the iconic automobile, created a one-of-a-kind look for the the Caped Crusader and his side-kick Robin, played by Adam West and Burt Ward in the 1960's television version of the comic superhero Batman. The car, which started as a 1955 Lincoln Futura concept car built by hand for $250,000, was transformed into every little boy's fantasy of what was cool, with futuristic features including the "Batphone" (long before cell phones were invented), and all sorts of gizmo's that helped the crime fighters save the day.

I read that George Barris was pleased with the auction results, as it sure drew a fantastic sale price. I am pleased that there is still such interest in these old cars that were such an important part of our childhood. Even though it's out of my budget, it's fun to keep our dreams alive!

REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION 
AOL Autos - Batmobile, First 2014 Corvette Sold At Auction
Batmobile History - The History of the Batmobile
Batmobile Info & Specs - The 1966 TV Batmobile
Forbes - Holy Automative Machinery! Batmobile Sells For $4.2 Million
George Barris - Barris Kustom Industries

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Guy L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Guy Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together he and his wife Andrea share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.

Drama Over GM's Corvette Secrecy Reveals The Unexpected

by Andrea L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

We've all been waiting to see what the new 2014 Corvette would look like, and what it would have under the hood. What we didn't expect was to see the "Stingray" name resurrected!



2014 Corvette Stingray

 This is great news for traditional classic car lovers who saw the iconic 60's Corvette Stingray as the best of the Corvette's. Add "Stingray" to Corvette and you've got hearts thumping. Hoping to build on the successful relaunch of the Chevrolet Camaro, GM has surprised even industry experts who missed this prediction. Yes, the new 2014 C7 Corvette will be a Stingray.

While styling of the new Corvette does not closely resemble the incredibly popular Stingray models of the 1960's and early 1970's, it boasts modern features that should win over the hearts of enthusiasts. Among the changes are serious updates over the C6′s performance standard, with Corvette engineers looking to beat C6 Grand Sport lap times.

Under the hood, the new 6.2L LT1 V8 produces an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 foot-pound torque and times of 0-60 in under 4 seconds. All this while giving estimates of 26 MPG in fuel economy. The compact engine design lowers the hood line and also the vehicle's center of gravity for what should be terrific handling. Guy Algar states, "We're sure many will want to take advantage of an optional dry-sump oil system that will deliver through high g-force cornering." The base car weighs almost 100 pounds less than the C6 due to its aluminum frame that’s 57% stiffer than its predecessor. The base model has a carbon fiber hood and roof panels for reduced weight, and the hood and quarter panels feature functional extractor vents.

The new Stingray looks to be built for performance and fun. We took note of the stick shift mounted on the passenger side door armrest, and you can bet passenger's will be grabbing for it when testing out the performance that the new Corvette promises to deliver. Performance upgrades to the C6 Corvette include
steering, which is said to be 5 times stiffer for greater precision. The seven speed manual transmission should be a hoot to drive, with its "active rev-matching" system which automatically anticipates downshifts at the first touch of the lever. This rev match seamlessly synchronizes the engine revs to the selected ratio, giving faster shifts, better handling and providing greater stability.

We know that performance enthusiasts in Texas, including the classic car and classic sports car enthusiasts, will find resurrection of the "Stingray" name intriguing, and the described performance something that needs to be driven!

REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
bcove.me - The New 2014 Corvette Stingray - VIDEO
Chevrolet - 2014 Corvette Reveal
Corvetteonline.com - C7 Stingray Preliminary Spcifications and Uber Gallery
LSX TV - Chevrolet Unveils The 2014 C7 Corvette Stingray
Time - The New 2014 Corvette Stingray (PHOTOS)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.

New Model Corvette C7 Creating Buzz With Announcement Of Live Reveal This Sunday

by Andrea L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

Many auto enthusiasts eagerly await the new year's models. This year is no exception. With a resurgence of interest in classic cars, and the fact that the major auto manufacturers have come out with updated versions of a few great muscle cars, it has left enthusiasts wondering if some models, such as the Z28 Camaro, the Cuda or the Superbee would be making a comeback. And, not to be left out of the mix, there has been a lot of buzz about the new model Corvette.

Newly redesigned logo for the
2014 Chevy Corvette

In fact, there has been so much interest surrounding the new 2014 C7 Corvette that GM has created months of mystery and intrigue by holding back the vital facts on the vehicle, and teasing us with the new logo for the new 2014 Corvette.

All this comes to and end with the announcement of a reveal via live-stream feed this Sunday, January 13, 2013. The event itself is the North American International Auto Show which will be held in Detroit.

REFERENCES & RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Livestreaming of the official reveal will be on Sunday night at 6:55 pm Eastern, 5:55 pm Central, 4:55 pm Mountain and/or 3:55 pm Pacific via their dedicated website, onethirteen13.com. Official photos will be posted to Corvette Facebook page. Tune in and share the fun!

Want to take a peek? Here's a video Chevrolet released to keep everyone on the edge of their seats: Chevrolet Releases Fourth and Final Corvette C7 Teaser

If you can't wait for the official unveiling, we have news from Car and Driver that they already have the inside scoop on the C7 Corvette, and they're giving details. Check out the story: 2014 C7 Corvette, Declassified! All the Details on Chevy's Halo Car

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.

Unexpected Thanks From A Stranded Traveler Affirms Why We Love Our Work With Old Cars And Trucks

by Andrea L. Algar
Motorheads Performance

I've always thought that many people have a big misunderstanding on why many of us get into the classic car line of work. While some may be motivated purely by ego, others by money, yet others have a far less sinister reason. They simply love the work, the people, and the "business".

You know what I'm talking about. There are a lot of shop owners and workers who want to be the next Boyd Coddington or Chip Foose. Some get into it simply to make a million dollars doing work they like, not necessarily thinking about the long hours, hard work, and frustration it can bring. And let's face it, shops have gotten a bad rap over decades because of people like this. Often these stereotypes portray rough, selfish, greedy men who just want to rip people off.



Guy Algar
Motorheads Performance
ASE Certified



Luckily, not all classic car shop owners are among this crowd. We meet people all the time who genuinely love what they do and get enjoyment and fulfillment out of helping others achieve their life-long dream of owning a classic car, muscle car or vintage truck. Unfortunately, many get burned out or get tired of getting burned. When you're enthusiastic about what you do, it's nice to work with people who are as equally excited.

Yes, the road may be long and hard, but every now and then, you get a dose of "good" that makes every single thing you do feel worthwhile. Every effort to save someone a few dollars, give the job a little something extra, or go out of your way to make sure that the job is done right is important. It's nice when the hard work is appreciated because it helps keep our enthusiasm alive and working in overdrive!

What prompted me to think about this today was an on-line review written today from a very unexpected source. Earlier this summer, Guy Algar and I were working in our shop when we received a call from a driver on his cell phone who explained that while on a long road trip, their family vehicle was broken down on Rte 80 in Leesville, and could we help. Guy jumped into his truck, drove down to their location and brought them back. After determining what was wrong, I hopped into my car to drive the 25 minute drive to Gonzales to pick up the parts while Guy took out the broken part and prepped for the replacement. After making the necessary repairs and advising the family what would be needed in the future, we got them back on their long road trip. It felt great to be able to help, and we enjoyed the visit with the family, hoping they'd make the rest of their trip without incident.

Then, unexpectedly, we saw that all these months later they hadn't forgotten and had taken the time to write a nice review on merchantcircle.com. Here's what the review said:

Thankful Travelers:

This past summer (2012) my family and I were traveling when my 2003 Suburban broke down in no where Texas (Leesville-a sweet, quiet community). We used our phone to look up a mechanic. We were surprised to find out there was one just a few miles from us down a country road called Motorheads. Guy came to our rescue! He got us back to his place, diagnosed the problems and helped us get a part from a local (15-20 miles away) parts store. As we talked to him, he was so enthusiastic about his love of old cars, his horses, and his dogs. He made us feel like old friends. When it was time for us to get back on the road, he wouldn't let us pay him for his trouble. He did all that just because he wanted to help us, stranded travelers. We are forever thankful! The Smith Family

Guy and I are grateful to all of our customers, no matter how small or large the job is. We are enthusiastic about the work we do because we love the work and the people we meet and make friends with. And it's nice when you make someone's life a bit more enjoyable.

The Smith family was such a nice "bump in the road" from our perspective. While we don't typically work on anything newer than a 1979 vehicle, they were in a bad spot. They desperately needed an immediate fix, we had the knowledge and ability, and we were happy to help get them back on the road. We could only wish the same if we were caught up in a bad situation. Guy and I thank them for the nice words. We, too, feel we met old friends that day.

People considering a classic car repair shop should look at the type of business they want to deal with, the relation they want with it, and the people who will be working hard to produce the car of their dreams for them. It's important to select a shop that has a good fit. Selecting someone with similar values and goals as yours is apt to make the best working relation, and produce the best outcomes for you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.