’18 Detroit Autorama…

Taking Back the Basement…

Words and photos by :Dan Podobinski

I’ve been covering the Detroit Autorama for a number of years now and one thing is for certain,  this show is as much about the people as it is about the cars. Nowhere is that more evident than in the area affectionately known as “the basement.” Officially it is titled Autorama Extreme, but that is only to draw in the general public. Those of us in the know will forever call it “the basement. “

Over the last couple of years the numbers of quality, traditional cars in the basement had been on the decline. This year, however, it would seem that the traditional crowd said enough is enough and decided to take back what was rightfully theirs. Numbers and quality of traditional hot rods was way up, including a nice contingent from the Great White North and a great display featuring the Hot Rod Hill Climb and the Hot Rod Dirt Drags.

The diverse assortment of art and lifestyle vendors along with live music makes for an atmosphere that is found at few, if any, other events. There were even some nice, traditional hot rods upstairs on the main floor along with a great selection of outstanding traditional customs. 

Once again, the Detroit Autorama lived up to expectations, cementing its place at the top of my list of indoor shows to cover. See you next year old friend!