New DimensionsEvery year European enthusiasts from across central California flock to the New Dimensions Charity Auto Show. While most participants compete and show off their hard work, the gathering has a different agenda - one that's more important than cars. The annual event is held to raise money from donations and ticket sales, with the proceeds going to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties. Although the organizers have not yet determined how much funds were generated, it was deemed a success.
Like last year, the event was held at the Twin Creeks Sports Complex in Sunnyvale, CA. The weather was great, as if it knew the show was for a good cause. The venue is split into four baseball fields, and this year three were used. Cars were divided into groups according to make and model. One field displayed Mk4 Golfs and Jettas. The opposite field held Mk1s, Mk2s and Mk3s, along with Corrados, Sciroccos, Beetles and more. The last field contained BMWs, Audis, Passats and Minis. In between were the vendors, with 18 in attendance.
The total number of registered cars was a generous 362 - more than double last year's total. And, as usual, VW dominated the show. In one field we found all the old-skool cars. This included Howard Wolf's Mk2 Jetta 16v turbo (et 5/05). Nothing much has changed since the feature, but we wouldn't want him to spoil it anyway. It's perfect as it is. Walking on, our attention was drawn to a stock '81 Audi 4000. It looked as if it rolled off the showroom floor that morning. At the other end of the field was a less pristine Corrado. It was covered in mud, but the mountain bike on the roof hinted as to why.
There were plenty of quality Mk4s, and like a kid in a candy store, we walked around wide-eyed. Take a look at the photos and judge for yourself.
But it wasn't all VWs. We spotted Girard de Guzman and his custom widebody E36 M3 (et 5/05). Last we heard he'd retired from competition, but obviously he came out to support the cause. He showed with his crew, TWCompetition, who represented in quantity and quality.
Walking around we also noticed a lightly modified E60 5-series. It had a stylish front lip, carbon kidney grilles and a set of 19" HREs. Not far from it was a Hamann 645Ci, and we even found a Brabus Mercedes CLS!
If you missed this year's New Dimensions Charity Auto Show, there's always next year. The show may not be as large as some, but it's for a good cause. Remember to bring your family and friends along, as each ticket sale contributes to the charity. You're helping out the less fortunate while having fun. For more information, visit www.newdimensions.com or www.charityautoshows.com.