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Get those wish lists started, Tampa Bay car aficionados, as you view what's new in dreams on wheels. While you fantasize, join in the other fun at the international auto show.
By AMY ABBOTT
© St. Petersburg Times, published November 1, 2001
TAMPA -- Giveaways, cheerleaders and a NASCAR great will be around to entertain the crowds at the Tampa Convention Center, but the real draw at the Tampa Bay International Auto Show is the window shopping.
More than 500 cars representing 35 manufacturers' 2002 crown jewels are set out for all to sit in, look under the hood and check the sticker price. And without a sales pitch.
The show is designed to let people dream behind the wheel of a car they may never own. Manufacturers hire designers to dream for them, and a few of their results will be on display throughout the weekend.
Concept cars are flashy autos you wouldn't expect to see on the road any time soon. In years past, many concept cars never made it to a dealer's lot because they were financially impractical or the public showed little interest in them. This year may be different.
The Chevrolet Nomad concept car borrows from the past and boasts of its practicality. For those who remember Chevy's first Nomad in the 1950s, the similarities are evident. The long body and angled windows are true to the original station wagon design. The folding seats, retractable roof and extended load floor appeal to the modern family used to sport utility vehicles. A V-8 engine and rear wheel drive, however, are new.
But practicality hasn't reduced the fun. The Pontiac Piranha is like a puzzle on wheels. The back cargo area is a lightweight tub that can be used as a trunk or a cooler, and it can also be removed to turn the compact car into a minipickup. All the seats can be removed for double duty as lawn or beach chairs. And even though it is small, the interior has been designed for comfort; the armrests are filled with the gel used in some mountain bike seats.
If concept cars aren't your fantasy, maybe the Million-Dollar Exotic Vehicle Display will pique your interest: It includes products from Lamborghini, Ferrari and Bentley.
On the more affordable side, Volkswagen will feature its new eight-cylinder Passat W-8, boasting 271 horsepower. Chrysler's PT Cruiser will come tricked out with optional flame accents lapping over the hood and front fenders.
And look for Porsche's first SUV, the Cayenne, expected on the market in another year.
NASCAR driver Tony Stewart, who drives the No. 20 Home Depot Pontiac, will be on hand today from 6 to 8 p.m. to answer questions and sign autographs. Kids' Day is Sunday, with Spiderman and Tampa Bay Lightning mascot Thunderbug there to meet and greet the little ones. Also, the first 750 children 7-12 will get a LEGO "Life on Mars" gift set. Grownups can get toys too. On Friday, the first 500 paid box office ticket holders entering the show will get a Ty Beanie Bear.
Beautiful women are always featured at car shows; this one boasts two Buccaneer cheerleaders, but they're only there on Friday.
Chances to win prizes from many of the manufacturers and local raceways are sure to attract many auto aficionados.
Tampa Bay International Auto Show, noon to 10 p.m. today and Friday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. $7 adults; $4 military, seniors, students and children ages 7 to 12; free for children 6 and under. Special events: 6 to 8 p.m. today, NASCAR driver Tony Stewart; Friday, Tampa Bay Buccaneers cheerleaders, Ty Beanie Day; Sunday, Kids' Day.