NZV8 — February 2018

(^104) themotorhood.com
This beautiful
’68 Dodge Charger is
owned by Steve Gorter,
who purchased it back
in 1998, and gave it a full
nut-and-bolt restoration
around eight years ago.
The Charger runs its
original 383ci big block
fitted with MSD ignition,
TorqueFlite transmission,
and 8¾-inch diff, and
Steve tells us it’s a good,
reliable combo.
The incredible panel and
paint work was done
at Mark Jones Paint
and Panel, where Steve
spent most evenings and
weekends over a five-year
stretch, putting the thing
back together. There’s
no question that his
persistence has paid off —
this is one sweet machine!
there, and a pair of mint Valiant hardtops over there;
certainly a bit of something for everyone!
While the cars successfully stole the show, they were
by no means the only attraction.
Stace the Ace, pinstriper and airbrusher extraordinaire,
had her stall set up, offering a bunch of custom-
painted items for sale. Straight Cut Clothing offered a
selection of retro-inspired gear, while Larry held the
fort for Classic Cover Insurance, offering good chat
and free sun hats for much-welcome protection from
the blazing sun.
A day like this proceeds at a pretty slow pace, with an
abundance of vehicles to admire and people to meet
or catch up with, although the afternoon’s prize-
giving signalled the beginning of things wrapping
up. You can check out the winners elsewhere in
the article, but, with awards for the best hot rod,