Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar:

The next Caffeine & Octane is set for 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, at The Avenues mall at 10300 Southside Blvd.

It’s the annual toy drive for Wolfson Children’s Hospital – they will be collecting new, unwrapped toys to benefit Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Bring the toy to the checkered C&O tent.

The Mercedes-Benz Club of America Southern Stars is the First Coast Car Council Car Club of the Month for December – all Mercedes-Benz owners (club members or not) can  join them in their Car Club Feature Area.

Gentle reminders – All vehicles parked in the Central Lot must remain in place until the show concludes. If you cannot stay until then, please park in the exhibit lot. Those parking in the Exotics Lot and the Porsche Corner are free to arrive and leave at any time. And FYI – some spots have been taken up by a holiday child’s entertainment zone, so C&O moves a bit down the lot for the duration.

Recent events:

U.S.S. Orleck Car Show: last Saturday, at the U.S.S. Orleck ship museum at 610 E. Bay St. Presented by NAPA Auto Care and Jacksonville Corvette Club, and honored the Pearl Harbor attack of 83 years ago.

North Florida Domestic Car Club’s cruise-in’s new home –  first Saturday of the month at Culhane’s Irish Pub.

Upcoming events:

Kingsland Cars and Coffee/Toys for Tots: 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, at Harbor Freight, 1601 Georgia Highway 40. Donate an unwrapped toy and get entered in the Culture Driven giveaway raffle.

Mandarin Athletic Association Car Show: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, at 3750 Burnett Park Road. Free for spectators and $20 day of show for entrants.

Cruise-in Down Heavenly Lane Car Show: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, at Hilliard Branch Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 3741 Heavenly Lane. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle – fundraiser for the church youth program.

Trucks for Tots/Toys for Tots: noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday at 136 W. Lowder Street, MacClenny. Free for spectators and an unwrapped new toy as registration for show vehicles.

Rescheduled: Fort Clinch Vintage Cars and Cannons: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28, at the historic fort state park at 2601 Atlantic Ave. Pre-register at fortclinch.org for $50 per show vehicle. You must pay for admission to the fort to see the show – $6 per visitor vehicle.

Third annual Revved Up! Car, Truck and Bike Show: 4 to7 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, at GW Truck at 4930 Spring Park Road. 

9th Annual Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam and Car Show: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds at 5840 Florida 207 in Elkton. Spectators are $10 per person, with free parking – www.jimmyjambbqslam.com.

Eurofest St. Augustine: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Free for spectators and any European vehicle on display.

Down at the Bay Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 25, at Cedar Bay Baptist Church, 11553 N. Main St. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

Kruisin’ 4 Kidz: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, at Dinsmore Baptist Church, 10500 Old Kings Road. Spectators are free, and pre-registration is $20 per show vehicle.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke. 

All the Cruise-ins…

Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Mod Talk Tuesdays: 5 p.m. every first Tuesday at Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant at 10915 Baymeadows Road. For car, truck and bike enthusiasts.

Sunshine State Chevelles: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Monday of each month at 1937 Spirits and Eatery, 1842 Kings Ave in the San Marco area.

Players Grille Mandarin at 10140 San Jose Blvd., 4 to 7 p.m. every third Wednesday.

New – Fernandina Beach Car Meet: 6 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month at Famous Quick Lube, 1707 8^th St. Fernandina Beach.

Amelia Cruizers: 3 to 5 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month, now at Townies Pizza, 819 T.J. Courson Road.

Jax Beach Classic Car Cruise: Postponed in December – resumes in the New Year – 4 to 7 p.m. each fourth Tuesday at the Seawalk Pavilion at 75 1st Street N. in Jacksonville Beach.

Classic Car Cruise-in at Orange Blossoms Beach Boulevard: 8 a.m. to noon each third Saturday of the month at Orange Blossoms, 14329 Beach Blvd.

Caffeine and Gasoline: 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, and each first Saturday of the month at J-Tech Institute at 8813 Western Way in Jacksonville. House rules – “respect the property.” And J-Tech will be holding events to coincide with C & G with staff on site to give tours of the campus.

New location – North Florida Domestic Car Club’s cruise-in 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on each first Saturday of the month at Culhane’s Irish Pub, 9720 Deer Lake Court off Southside Boulevard.

Wings & Wheels Cruise-in: 2 to 6 pm. each first Saturday at Dicks Wings & Grill at 6055 Youngerman Circle.

Rides and Coffee: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every fourth Sunday at Detail Garage, 9390 Arlington Expressway.

First Coast Car Council: All cruise-ins postponed.

Callahan Cruisers: 4 to 7 p.m. every second Saturday at Hardee’s at 542309 U.S. 1 in Callahan. The next cruise-in – Sat. Aug. 10 – is the event’s 10^th anniversary.

Downtown Kingsland Cars & Coffee: New summer hours – 8 to 11 a.m. each second Saturday at the Historic Downtown Kingsland Homegrown Market at U.S. 17 and Georgia 40.

Cruise Fruit Cove: The Sunshine State Chevelles’ cruise-in hours are 1 to 5 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

New cruise-in: 1 p.m. every third Saturday at Hardee’s at 6852 Wilson Blvd.

Yulee Cars and Coffee: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every third Sunday at the Sonic Drive-In at 463939 Florida 200 in Yulee. 

Brunch with Cars: noon to 3 p.m. this and every third Sunday at Pink Salt Restaurant and Wine Bar, 1567 University Blvd. W.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Tom & Betty’s in Orange Park. 5 p.m. every third Friday at Hooter’s/Miller’s Ale House at 1756 Well’s Road – replaces Freddy’s; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday. Both cruise-ins are at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 8 a.m. every fourth Sunday of the month at 2310 Village Square Parkway, Fleming Island.

New cruise-in: 6 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Mission BBQ, 8440 Blanding Blvd. in Jacksonville, hosted by Modern Mustangs of Jacksonville.

New cruise-in: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every fourth Saturday at the Rockin’ 50’s Eatery at 3501 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd. in St. Augustine.

Show and Tell: 6 to 9 p.m. every fourth Thursday at Advance Auto Parts at 10014 Atlantic Blvd.

Azalea City Cruisers: Monthly cruise-in from 5 to 8 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Velchoffs Corner, 105 N. 2^nd St. in Palatka.

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

Wait, there’s more…

The Ford Mustang GTD fulfilled a sub-7-minute Nürburgring promise, completing a lap of the 12.9-mile, 73-turn “Green Hell” in 6:57.685 – only the sixth stock, production sports car to complete an officially certified sub-seven-minute lap and the fifth fastest in the production sports car class according to the Nürburgring’s records

The run is featured in The Road to the Ring, a 13-minute documentary film airing now, showing the first car from an American brand to complete a lap in under seven minutes.

Driven by Multimatic Motorsports driver Dirk Müller, the 815-hp Mustang GTD ‘s time delivers on the goal laid out by CEO Jim Farley at the Mustang GTD’s debut in August 2023. 

“The team behind Mustang GTD took what we’ve learned from decades on the track and engineered a Mustang that can compete with the world’s best supercars,” said Farley in a news release. “We’re proud to be the first American automaker with a car that can lap the Nürburgring in under seven minutes, but we aren’t satisfied. We know there’s much more time to find with Mustang GTD. We’ll be back.”

Mustang GTD’s Nürburgring success is due to the work of a small, dedicated team of engineers and designers who worked tirelessly over the course of two years to turn the Mustang GT3 race car into the first-ever Mustang supercar. However, Mustang GTD isn’t subject to the rules and regulations of GT3 racing, which prohibit much of the technology that allow a sub-seven-minute Nürburgring lap.

That includes carbon-ceramic brakes, active aerodynamics, a supercharger, and semi-active suspension. A carbon-fiber body is familiar from GT3 racing, and while the Mustang GTD that completed the sub-seven-minute lap was entirely stock, it did include motorsports-derived safety gear mandated by the Nürburgring. That includes a competition seat with a five-point harness and a roll cage.

Hagerty announced its 2025 U.S. Bull Market list, enthusiast vehicles the company expects to increase in value over the next year. Hagerty Automotive Intelligence analyzed data from public and private sales, along with historic trends and insurance valuations to narrow down the list to 11 special vehicles.

“It’s a common misconception that fun cars have to be expensive,” said Hagerty senior editor Larry Webster said in a news release. “Our Bull Market list provides options for enthusiasts of all interests that will cost little to own. Yet it’s not the cost, but the machines that get us excited. No one looks back at their bank account with fond memories – they look back at those weekend drives, family road trips and evenings in the garage.”

Full 2025 Bull Market list details are here, with a YouTube review here. The top 10 are:

1. 1978-1983 Datsun 280ZX
2. 1981-1983 DeLorean DMC-12
3. 1961-1964 Jaguar E-Type SI 3.8 Coupe
4. 2003-2013 Lamborghini Gallardo 6-speed
5. 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum SRT-8
6. 1961-1972 Volvo P1800
7. 1976-1989 Ferrari 400 / 412
8. 2002-2006 Mini Cooper S)
9. 1997-2001 Honda Prelude
10. 2002-2008 Mercedes-Benz G500
11. 1984-1990 Ford Bronco II

In July, Hagerty released the “Future of Driving” survey which showed that nearly 60% of Gen Z respondents would like to own a collector car, compared to 31% of Baby Boomers. Several cars on the list have seen a rise in both insurance policies and quotes among Millennial and Gen Z enthusiasts. 

Polestar, the Swedish electric performance car brand, has announced the winner of its 2024 Design Contest, held in collaboration with Hot Wheels. And the 1:64 scale winner, echoing Polestar’s distinctive design language, is Shashank Shekhar, a professional designer from India. He won first prize for his rugged off-roader, ‘Polestar TRX,’ with its exaggerated proportions and sleek surfaces. The design becomes the first Polestar to be included in Hot Wheels toy car series, with the die-cast collectable available for consumers in the summer of 2025.

“I’m thrilled to win,” Shekhar said in a news release. “This will be the first design in my career to be produced, so it’s a big deal for me. I never thought that someday, something I have created would end up as a Hot Wheels car. It has been a great journey, and I’ve had an amazing time so far. Something like this gives you a lot of confidence as a young designer.” 

Courtesy of The Amelia/Hagerty

The Amelia by Hagerty celebrates 30 years of global motoring excellence as it returns to Golf Club of Amelia Island and The Ritz-Carlton Resort from March 6 – March 9, tickets at AmeliaConcours.com.

And The Amelia announced that Hélio Castroneves will be the honoree for 2025, continuing the event’s longstanding tradition as “the racer’s concours.” 

Castroneves’ wide-ranging racing and competition experience includes:

• 2001, 2002, 2009, and 2021 Indianapolis 500 wins
• 2020 IMSA championship with 4 victories and 4 pole positions with Acura Team Penske
• Minority partner and co-owner of Meyer Shank Racing
• Season 5 winner of ABC television series Dancing with the Stars in 2007

He was chosen as honoree for The Amelia in 2025 based on his dedication to excellence in racing as well as his unwavering competitive spirit that has made him one of the most successful drivers in IndyCar history.

The concours’ featured classes include:

• Corvette at Sebring.
• Alfa Romeos of the 1930s. 
• Formula 1 Cars 1950-Present.

And don’t forget – register your bucket of bolts for the  Florida Concours d’Lemons on Friday, March 7, as part of the Classic Motorsports Magazine Amelia Kick Off Party at Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach. Awful cars, great view of the ocean and our signature janky trophies.

And returning to The Amelia – the Broad Arrow Group’s annual auction. 

Since its inception in 1996, The Amelia has donated more than $4 million to deserving non-profit and charitable organizations. In keeping with past tradition, The Amelia will continue to support Spina Bifida of Jacksonville, local Shop with Cops programs, and Community Hospice and Palliative Care.

Courtesy: David Green/Grassroots Motorsports

A lot can happen when building a race car for less than $2000–so Grassroots Motorsports is making it easier than ever to plan your entry into our annual low-buck motorsports festival, the Grassroots Motorsports $2000 Challenge Presented by Tire Rack, set for March 29-30 at Gainesville Raceway. Now when you register for the $2000 Challenge, your payment information will be saved, but you won’t be charged until a few days before the event – you can cancel up until three days before the start of the $2000 Challenge to get a full refund. 

For more information about the $2000 Challenge, visit 2000challenge.com.

Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar:

The next Caffeine & Octane is set for 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, at The Avenues mall at 10300 Southside Blvd.

And it’s the annual toy drive for Wolfson Children’s Hospital – they will be collecting new, unwrapped toys to benefit Wolfson Children’s Hospital! Bring the toy to the checkered C&O tent.

Gentle reminders – All vehicles parked in the Central Lot must remain in place until the show concludes. If you cannot stay until then, please park in the exhibit lot. Those parking in the Exotics Lot and the Porsche Corner are free to arrive and leave at any time. And FYI – some spots have been taken up by a holiday child’s entertainment zone, so C&O moves a bit down the lot for the duration.

Recent events:

The Daytona Turkey Run is the biggest car show in the area, held every Thanksgiving weekend at Daytona International Speedway. Chris Conover, head of Sunshine State Chevelles and the popular Cruise Fruit Cove, snagged a few shots for us:

For example, where else would you see a line of early 70’s Winnebago Chiefs?

And here’s some serious GM coupe action:

Upcoming events:

U.S.S. Orleck Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, at the U.S.S. Orleck ship museum at 610 E. Bay St. Presented by NAPA Auto Care and Jacksonville Corvette Club, it is free for spectators (ship admission excluded) and $25 show vehicle pre -registration, or $30 day of show. Events will honor the Pearl Harbor attack of 83 years ago. Questions  – email events@Jaxnavalmuseume.org.

Special Christmas Cruise-In to benefit Micah’s Place: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Culver’s, 463731 Florida 200 in Yulee, presented by the Amelia Cruizers – this is a toy and supply drive, gifts and gift cards for both the children and the women at the shelter..

Inaugural Jacksonville Toys for Tots Rally: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Hit the roads of central Florida for charity in support of underprivileged children –  not open to spectators, and advanced registration is required. Hosted by AutoLyfeStyle, WheelHouse and Porsche Jacksonville, and sponsored by Hagerty and WolvesDen Customs, advance Registration is $125 per car (Driver and One Passenger), and $50 of unwrapped, unopened toys are required per car.

Hotwheelz3K Car Show: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, at a new site – RD International Market at 7534 Beach Blvd. Spectators free, and $40 per show vehicle.

Joseph Avram Bryan Memorial Scholarship Fund Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Kingsland Cars and Coffee/Toys for Tots: 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 14 at Harbor Freight, 1601 Georgia Highway 40. Donate an unwrapped toy and get entered in the Culture Driven giveaway raffle.

Mandarin Athletic Association Benefit Car Show: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at  3750 Burnett Park Road. Free for spectators and $20 day of show for entrants.

Cruise-in Down Heavenly Lane Car Show: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, at Hilliard Branch Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 3741 Heavenly Lane. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle – fundraiser for the church youth program.

Rescheduled: Fort Clinch Vintage Cars and Cannons: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28, at the historic fort state park at 2601 Atlantic Ave. Pre-register at fortclinch.org for $50 per show vehicle. You must pay for admission to the fort to see the show – $6 per visitor vehicle.

Third annual Revved Up! Car, Truck and Bike Show: 4 to7 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, at GW Truck at 4930 Spring Park Road. 

9th Annual Jimmy Jam BBQ Slam and Car Show: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds at 5840 Florida 207 in Elkton. Spectators are $10 per person, with free parking – www.jimmyjambbqslam.com.

Eurofest St. Augustine: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Free for spectators and any European vehicle on display.

Down at the Bay Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 25, at Cedar Bay Baptist Church, 11553 N. Main St. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke. 

All the Cruise-ins…

Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Pharaohs St. Johns cruise-in: 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Trout Creek Memorial Park, 6550 Florida 13 North in Northwest St. Johns County, just past the Shands Bridge.

Mod Talk Tuesdays: 5 p.m. every first Tuesday at Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant at 10915 Baymeadows Road. For car, truck and bike enthusiasts.

Sunshine State Chevelles: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Monday of each month at 1937 Spirits and Eatery, 1842 Kings Ave in the San Marco area.

Players Grille Mandarin at 10140 San Jose Blvd., 4 to 7 p.m. every third Wednesday.

New – Fernandina Beach Car Meet: 6 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month at Famous Quick Lube, 1707 8^th St. Fernandina Beach.

New –1 to 4 p.m. on Sun. Dec. 8, at the Elks Lodge # 221 at 1855 West Road near Beach Boulevard – burgers and hot dogs for sale.

Amelia Cruizers: 3 to 5 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month, now at Townies Pizza, 819 T.J. Courson Road.

Jax Beach Classic Car Cruise: Postponed in November and December – resumes in the New Year – 4 to 7 p.m. each fourth Tuesday at the Seawalk Pavilion at 75 1st Street N. in Jacksonville Beach.

Classic Car Cruise-in at Orange Blossoms Beach Boulevard: 8 a.m. to noon each third Saturday of the month at Orange Blossoms, 14329 Beach Blvd.

Caffeine and Gasoline: 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, and each first Saturday of the month at J-Tech Institute at 8813 Western Way in Jacksonville. House rules – “respect the property.” And J-Tech will be holding events to coincide with C & G with staff on site to give tours of the campus.

New location – North Florida Domestic Car Club’s cruise-in 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on each first Saturday of the month at Culhane’s Irish Pub, 9720 Deer Lake Court off Southside Boulevard.

Wings & Wheels Cruise-in: 2 to 6 pm. each first Saturday at Dicks Wings & Grill at 6055 Youngerman Circle.

Rides and Coffee: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every fourth Sunday at Detail Garage, 9390 Arlington Expressway.

First Coast Car Council: All cruise-ins postponed.

Callahan Cruisers: 4 to 7 p.m. every second Saturday at Hardee’s at 542309 U.S. 1 in Callahan. The next cruise-in – Sat. Aug. 10 – is the event’s 10^th anniversary.

Downtown Kingsland Cars & Coffee: New summer hours – 8 to 11 a.m. each second Saturday at the Historic Downtown Kingsland Homegrown Market at U.S. 17 and Georgia 40.

Cruise Fruit Cove: The Sunshine State Chevelles’ cruise-in hours are 1 to 5 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

New cruise-in: 1 p.m. every third Saturday at Hardee’s at 6852 Wilson Blvd.

Yulee Cars and Coffee: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every third Sunday at the Sonic Drive-In at 463939 Florida 200 in Yulee. 

Brunch with Cars: noon to 3 p.m. this and every third Sunday at Pink Salt Restaurant and Wine Bar, 1567 University Blvd. W.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Tom & Betty’s in Orange Park.  11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every third Saturday at Mr. Chubby’s Wings at 2349 Village Square Parkway in Fleming Island; 5 p.m. every third Friday at Hooter’s/Miller’s Ale House at 1756 Well’s Road – replaces Freddy’s; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday. Both cruise-ins are at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 8 a.m. every fourth Sunday of the month at 2310 Village Square Parkway, Fleming Island.

New cruise-in: 6 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Mission BBQ, 8440 Blanding Blvd. in Jacksonville, hosted by Modern Mustangs of Jacksonville.

New cruise-in: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every fourth Saturday at the Rockin’ 50’s Eatery at 3501 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd. in St. Augustine.

Show and Tell: 6 to 9 p.m. every fourth Thursday at Advance Auto Parts at 10014 Atlantic Blvd.

Azalea City Cruisers: Monthly cruise-in from 5 to 8 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Velchoffs Corner, 105 N. 2^nd St. in Palatka.

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

Wait, there’s more…

Quite a cat-ch! Jaguar Chief Creative Officer/Professor Gerry McGovern OBE showed off the Type 00 concepts in London Blue and Miami Pink at Miami Art Week.

London Blue honors the iconic Opalescent Silver Blue of the 1960s E-type – and the concept has no rear window.

Miami Pink pays tribute to the city’s pastel colors and Art Deco architecture – and the long coupe shares almost nothing nostalgic with past Jags except the long bonnet/short rear deck of an E-Type.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presents Cameo, a miniature sculpture inspired by the marque’s heritage that’s an homage to the open-top motor cars built in its earliest years. Handcrafted at the home of Rolls Royce at Goodwood, the model comprises a series of individual, highly engineered pieces designed for self-assembly.

The body is constructed by fitting together two sections – one of solid oak, and the other from polished aluminum – which, together, recreate the iconic Rolls-Royce two-tone finish. The oak body magnetically attaches to the aluminum chassis. Next, the meticulously engineered interior is installed. These pieces are 3D-printed and trimmed in the same Rolls-Royce leather used in full-size motor cars. Other authentic details include the self-levelling wheel center caps, which allow the ‘RR’ monogram to remain upright as the wheels turn. Finally, the Cameo driver takes their rightful place in the cockpit, ready to embark on a journey in luxury and style.

Screenshots: Tom Hartley Jnr Ltd/YouTube

Tom Hartley Jr. Ltd. is selling the ‘Ecclestone Grand Prix Collection,’ with some of the most valuable Grand Prix and Formula 1 car collection in the world. The collection has been assembled by Bernie (the godfather of Formula 1) over the last 50 years. It spans 70 years of Grand Prix and Formula 1 racing and boasts many Grand Prix and Championship winning cars within the collection.

There are 69 cars. Within the Ferraris, there is the Alberto Ascari Italian Grand Prix winning 375 F1; the Ferrari Thin Wall Special, the first Ferrari to beat Alfa Romeo; and the very first 312 F1, a multiple Grand Prix winning car and considered by Ferrari to be the most original surviving Formula 1 car of that era. There are championship winning cars from the likes of Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda and Mike Hawthorn. And included within the collection are championship winning cars from Nelson Piquet, one of which was used for testing with Ayrton Senna at the end of the 1983 Formula 1 season, including the famous BT46B ‘fan car’ in which Niki Lauda won the Swedish Grand Prix.

Screenshots: Tom Hartley Jnr Ltd/YouTube 

Other highlights within the collection include an ex-Works Maserati 250F, the monstrous 16-cylinder Mark II BRM and the famed Vanwall VW10, which in the hands of Stirling Moss achieved multiple Grand Prix victories in the 1958 Formula 1 Championship season and clinched the first ever Constructors’ Championship for Vanwall.

Screenshots: Tom Hartley Jnr Ltd/YouTube

Courtesy of The Amelia/Hagerty

The Amelia by Hagerty celebrates 30 years of global motoring excellence as it returns to Golf Club of Amelia Island and The Ritz-Carlton Resort from March 6 – March 9, tickets at AmeliaConcours.com.

And The Amelia announced that Hélio Castroneves will be the honoree for 2025, continuing the event’s longstanding tradition as “the racer’s concours.” 

Castroneves’ wide-ranging racing and competition experience includes:

• 2001, 2002, 2009, and 2021 Indianapolis 500 wins
• 2020 IMSA championship with 4 victories and 4 pole positions with Acura Team Penske
• Minority partner and co-owner of Meyer Shank Racing
• Season 5 winner of ABC television series Dancing with the Stars in 2007

He was chosen as honoree for The Amelia in 2025 based on his dedication to excellence in racing as well as his unwavering competitive spirit that has made him one of the most successful drivers in IndyCar history.

The concours’ featured classes include:

• Corvette at Sebring.
• Alfa Romeos of the 1930s. 
• Formula 1 Cars 1950-Present.

And returning to The Amelia – the Broad Arrow Group’s annual auction. 

Since its inception in 1996, The Amelia has donated more than $4 million to deserving non-profit and charitable organizations. In keeping with past tradition, The Amelia will continue to support Spina Bifida of Jacksonville, local Shop with Cops programs, and Community Hospice and Palliative Care.

Courtesy: David Green/Grassroots Motorsports

A lot can happen when building a race car for less than $2000–so Grassroots Motorsports is making it easier than ever to plan your entry into our annual low-buck motorsports festival, the Grassroots Motorsports $2000 Challenge Presented by Tire Rack, set for March 29-30 at Gainesville Raceway. Now when you register for the $2000 Challenge, your payment information will be saved, but you won’t be charged until a few days before the event – you can cancel up until three days before the start of the $2000 Challenge to get a full refund. 

For more information about the $2000 Challenge, visit 2000challenge.com.

Supercar Xperiences – Dec. 13 to 15 – YOUR turn to get behind the wheel of a fleet of exotic cars at The FIRM’s 1.5-mile race track at 7266 Airport Road in Starke . Prices do not include Track Insurance (Starting at $39 per Car) which is required for drivers. SPECTATOR PIT PASS – $10.

Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar

The next Caffeine &Octane is set for 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, at The Avenues mall at 10300 Southside Blvd.

Gentle reminders – All vehicles parked in the Central Lot must remain in place until the show concludes. If you cannot stay until then, please park in the exhibit lot. Those parking in the Exotics Lot and the Porsche Corner are free to arrive and leave at any time.

Head’s up – the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival is coming up Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 at the Port Royal Golf Club – the honored marque: is Bentley and Rolls-Royce Post-War. The event also celebrates the 125th anniversary of Packard, and the Class Of’ ‘64 – 60 Years of Mustang; Pop Culture Cars Of The 50s & 60s; Rare English, Open & Closed European 50s, 60s, & 70s, Jaguar XK Class, Classic Japanese Performance, Micro Cars, Barn Finds, Automotive Orphans, Cannonball Run Motorcycles and more.

Recent events:

Brunch with Cars: noon to 3 p.m. this and every third Sunday at Pink Salt Restaurant and Wine Bar, 1567 University Blvd. W.

And cruising around Jacksonville Beach last weekend gave us a view of two of the most iconic vehicles ever seen on film -one of the two original hero Chitty Chitty Bang Bang cars made for the film, and a Batmobile replica that starred in “Rock Star.”

Upcoming events:

Attention – due to Thursday’s wet and windy weather, some shows have been cancelled:

• Cars and Cannons on Saturday, at Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach.
• Touch a Touch a Truck on Saturday at the Clay County Fairgrounds.

The rest of the calendar:

NJBC Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, at Jax Baptist Church, 8531 N. Main St. Free for spectators and show vehicles.

R.A.W. Music Festival and Car Show: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday at Flamingo Lake RV Park at 3640 Newcomb Road. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Car Show: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, at the Orange Park Mall at 1910 Wells Road. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

Cruisin’ to the Creek Car Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at Trout Creek Memorial Park, 6550 Florida 13 North in Northwest St. Johns County, just past the Shands Bridge. Free for spectators – show vehicles are $25 per; register at https://www.carcouncil.org/events. Proceeds benefit The Ronald McDonald House of Jacksonville.

45^th annual Azalea City Cruisers Car Show: 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Putnam County Fairgrounds at 118 Fairgrounds Road in East Palatka. Spectators free; $20 pre-registration.

Morocco Shriners Fall Car Show and Festival: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, at Happy Brew Coffee shop at 3200 Hendricks Ave. Spectators free; $20 registration for show vehicles.

Black Hammock Island Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at Black Hammock Island Golf Cart Club on Sawpit Road, at the end of Cedar Point Road.  

Cruisin’ for Jesus Car Show: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, at Truth Pointe Church at 5330 Dunn Ave. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

2024 Fall Classic – Pontiac/Oakland/GMC Car Show: 9 to 3 p.m. Sat. Oct. 12^th, at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Fre spectator admission and $30 day of show for show vehicles.

8 Flags Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, on Historic Centre Street in Fernandina Beach. Spectators are free; show vehicles are $30 day of show.

British Classic Car Show: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 at the Kings Head British Pub, U.S. 1 – yes, it will still be held there despite the pub’s recent closure – kitchen open for food sales.

Rev Out Cancer Pink Out Show: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 19 and 20, at Clay County Fairgrounds, 2463 Florida 16 in Green Cove Springs.

Evangel Temple AG Middleburg Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at the church at 1798 Freedom Drive. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

Baker County Veterans Council car show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at the county fairgrounds in MacClenny. 

Riverwalk Rev Fest: 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Oct. 20, at the Hannania corporate garage at 1200 Riverplace Blvd., presented by Staker Productions and Hannania Exotics. The theme is Euro vs. Muscle/

5^th annual Trunk or Treat: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday Oct. 26 at BJ’s at 15022 Max Leggett Parkway. Free for spectators and show vehicles – bring candy for the kids.

Classic and Vintage Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Immanuel Anglican Church, 915 Orchid Ave. in Keystone Heights.

Jax Speed Shop Car Show: 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at 48 Lee Road. Free.

Fall-O-Ween Festival: Car show and trunk-or-treat from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Northside Church of God at 5252 Dunn Ave. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle, plus donation of five non-perishable food items.

17^th annual Back to the 50s Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9, at Moosehaven at 1701 Park Ave. Free for spectators and $425 for show vehicles day of show.

Ponte Vedra Auto Show: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10, at Nocatee Station Field at 245 Nocatee Center Way in Ponte Vedra. Free for spectators and $60 – pre-registration only – per show vehicle. 

Rigs and Rods at Callahan Speedway: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, at the speedway at 543455 U.S. 1 in Callahan. A fundraiser for the planned Callahan Dragstrip, it’s free for spectators and $25 per show entry, with food trucks, silent auction and more.

Ancient City Auto Club 40^th anniversary Car Show: 8a.m to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, 207 San Marco Ave. in St. Augustine, Spectators free, show vehicles $30 day of show.

Middleburg Historic Fall Festival: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 2102 Palmetto St. Car show, plus live music and performers, craft and food.

U.S.S. Orleck Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, at the U.S.S. Orleck ship museum at 610 E. Bay St. Presented by NAPA Auto Care and Jacksonville Corvette Club, it is free for spectators (ship admission excluded) and $25 show vehicle pre -registration, or $30 day of show. Questions  – email events@Jaxnavalmuseume.org.

Inaugural Jacksonville Toys for Tots Rally: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7. Hit the roads of central Florida for charity in support of underprivileged children –  not open to spectators, and advanced registration is required. Hosted by AutoLyfeStyle, WheelHouse and Porsche Jacksonville, and sponsored by Hagerty and WolvesDen Customs, advance Registration is $125 per car (Driver and One Passenger), and $50 of unwrapped, unopened toys are required per car.

Mandarin Athletic Association Benefit Car Show: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, at  3750 Burnett Park Road. Free for spectators and $20 day of show for entrants.

Third annual Revved Up! Car, Truck and Bike Show: 4 to7 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, at GW Truck at 4930 Spring Park Road. 

Down at the Bay Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 25, at Cedar Bay Baptist Church, 11553 N. Main St. Free for spectators and $20 per show vehicle.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke. 

All the Cruise-ins…

Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: SUMMER HOURS – 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Pharaohs St. Johns cruise-in: 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Trout Creek Memorial Park, 6550 Florida 13 North in Northwest St. Johns County, just past the Shands Bridge.

Mod Talk Tuesdays: 5 p.m. every first Tuesday at Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant at 10915 Baymeadows Road. For car, truck and bike enthusiasts.

Sunshine State Chevelles: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Monday of each month at 1937 Spirits and Eatery, 1842 Kings Ave in the San Marco area.

Players Grille Mandarin at 10140 San Jose Blvd., 4 to 7 p.m. every third Wednesday.

New – Fernandina Beach Car Meet: 6 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month at Famous Quick Lube, 1707 8^th St. Fernandina Beach.

Returning – Jax Beach Classic Car Cruise: 4 to 7 p.m. each fourth Tuesday at the Seawalk Pavilion at 75 1st Street N. in Jacksonville Beach.

Classic Car Cruise-in at Orange Blossoms Beach Boulevard: 8 a.m. to noon each third Saturday of the month at Orange Blossoms, 14329 Beach Blvd.

Caffeine and Gasoline: 8 to 11 a.m. each first Saturday of the month at J-Tech Institute at 8813 Western Way in Jacksonville. House rules – “respect the property.” And J-Tech will be holding events to coincide with C & G with staff on site to give tours of the campus.

North Florida Domestic Car Club’s cruise-in: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. each first Saturday of the month at the Crossroad Church UMC, 10005 Gate Parkway, includes Pop-Up Shop.

Wings & Wheels Cruise-in: 2 to 6 pm. each first Saturday at Dicks Wings & Grill at 6055 Youngerman Circle.

Rides and Coffee: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every fourth Sunday at Detail Garage, 9390 Arlington Expressway.

First Coast Car Council: All cruise-ins postponed.

Callahan Cruisers: 4 to 7 p.m. every second Saturday at Hardee’s at 542309 U.S. 1 in Callahan. The next cruise-in – Sat. Aug. 10 – is the event’s 10^th anniversary.

Downtown Kingsland Cars & Coffee: New summer hours – 8 to 11 a.m. each second Saturday at the Historic Downtown Kingsland Homegrown Market at U.S. 17 and Georgia 40.

Cruise Fruit Cove: The Sunshine State Chevelles’ cruise-in hours are 1 to 5 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

New cruise-in: 1 p.m. every third Saturday at Hardee’s at 6852 Wilson Blvd.

Yulee Cars and Coffee: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every third Sunday at the Sonic Drive-In at 463939 Florida 200 in Yulee. 

Brunch with Cars: noon to 3 p.m. this and every third Sunday at Pink Salt Restaurant and Wine Bar, 1567 University Blvd. W.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Dick’s Wings Fleming Island at 1803 E. West Parkway;  5 p.m. every third Friday at Hooter’s/Miller’s Ale House at 1756 Well’s Road – replaces Freddy’s; 3 to 6 p.m. every third Saturday at Woody’s BBQ at 1301 N. Orange Ave. in Green Cove Springs; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday. Both cruise-ins are at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 8 a.m. every fourth Sunday of the month at 2310 Village Square Parkway, Fleming Island.

New cruise-in: 6 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Mission BBQ, 8440 Blanding Blvd. in Jacksonville, hosted by Modern Mustangs of Jacksonville.

New cruise-in: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every fourth Saturday at the Rockin’ 50’s Eatery at 3501 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd. in St. Augustine.

Show and Tell: 6 to 9 p.m. every fourth Thursday at Advance Auto Parts at 10014 Atlantic Blvd.

Azalea City Cruisers: Monthly cruise-in from 5 to 8 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Velchoffs Corner, 105 N. 2^nd St. in Palatka.

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

Wait, there’s more…

Hennessey has a more powerful and even quicker alternative to the Ford F-150 Raptor R – the Hennessey Venom 800 F-150.

The Hennessey team has developed an 800 hp engine with 757 lb-ft torque @ 4,100 rpm – 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and an 11.7 second quarter mile time. The Venom 800 truck pairs exterior and interior upgrades with additional enhancements to the suspension, wheels, tires and powertrain to deliver a formidable full-size super-truck packed with performance, capability, and signature Hennessey flair.

To achieve the performance improvement, Hennessey’s engineers add a 3-litre supercharger, upgraded air-to-water intercooler, high-performance fuel injection, and high-flow air induction system alongside Hennessey’s proprietary engine management calibration, a dual-tip cat-back exhaust, and massive six-piston Brembo performance brakes. The upgrade also adds a six-inch BDS suspension lift with FOX coil-overs, upgraded rear shocks, 20-inch Hennessey 10-spoke wheels, 35-inch off-road tires, front and rear steel bumpers, and LED off-road lights integrated into the front bumper.

Only 250 units are available globally for 2024 – go to HennesseyPerformance.com.

There’s a new baby Bug in the house – a Bugatti Baby II Tourbillon Edition that is a 75% scale, fully electric reincarnation of the iconic Bugatti Type 35, developed using a full 3D scan of an original 1924 French Grand Prix car. Made by Hedley Studios in Oxfordshire, UK, the Baby II is the result of over 200 hours of craftsmanship.

Its aluminum body panels are hand-beaten over wooden bucks using traditional coachbuilding methods, like those used on the original models that debuted at the Grand Prix de Lyon. And since it has electric drive, the traditional fuel pressure gauge now serves as a battery gauge, and a power gauge replaces the oil gauge. Like the early Type 35 variants, the turned aluminum dashboard – with its overlapping turns – ensures no glare disrupts the driving experience. Meanwhile, adjustable pedals, machined from solid aluminum billet and proudly bearing the renowned ‘EB’ logo, meet modern functionality and performance demands.

The Baby II Tourbillon Edition reproduces the sleek livery of the launch car, adorned in the familiar light and dark Aerolithe colorway, separated by a smooth ‘C’ curve – a reference to Bugatti’s iconic C-line – that stretches from behind the cockpit to the front of the car. This concept continues in the cockpit, where lavish Light Aerolithe leather hide covers the interior, perfectly complementing the overall aesthetic. 

A hand-painted French flag, carefully added by Hedley Studios’ in-house artist, recalls the original Tourbillon hyper sports car. 

Courtesy of The Amelia/Hagerty

The Amelia by Hagerty celebrates 30 years of global motoring excellence as it returns to Golf Club of Amelia Island and The Ritz-Carlton Resort from March 6 – March 9, tickets at AmeliaConcours.com.
The concours’ featured classes include:

• Corvette at Sebring. The Corvette became a serious sports car in 1956, debuting at Sebring and winning both the SCCA and Cal Club championships that year. Nearly 70 years later, hundreds of Corvettes have raced and scored victories at Sebring, which plays host to the biggest names in racing and is part of the Triple Crown of endurance racing including the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
• Alfa Romeos of the 1930s. Alfa Romeo began the 1930s as it ended the 1920s; dominating Italy’s sports car and competition scene. In all, from 1894 to 1949, Alfa won more international races than any other marque, Bugatti, and Mercedes-Benz included.
• Formula 1 Cars 1950-Present. The FIA Formula One World Championship has been one of the world’s premier forms of racing since its inaugural running in 1950. Always centered around single-seat, open wheel racers, F1 continues to attract the world’s best drivers and builders who create cars that push the technological envelope. Today 24 races held across five continents lead to a World Championship for one driver and one constructor/manufacturer. 

Since its inception in 1996, The Amelia has donated more than $4 million to deserving non-profit and charitable organizations. In keeping with past tradition, The Amelia will continue to support Spina Bifida of Jacksonville, local Shop with Cops programs, and Community Hospice and Palliative Care.

Supercar Xperiences – Dec. 13 to 15 – YOUR turn to get behind the wheel of a fleet of exotic cars at The FIRM’s 1.5-mile race track at 7266 Airport Road in Starke . Prices do not include Track Insurance (Starting at $39 per Car) which is required for drivers. SPECTATOR PIT PASS – $10.