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Motorexpo 07 (Canary Wharf Motor Show-Part 3)

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Kevin ''Crash'' Corrigan
Another company which caught my eye at the show was Lifestyle Automotive (www.lifestyleautomotive.co.uk). This company is now bringing to the market several rather unique vehicles. Its TD 2000 is basically a fully-modernized MG TD from the 1950's. An almost exact replica in overall shape and style, and yet nestled under that beautiful bodywork is a tried and trusted Toyota powertrain. "All the fun of classic motoring without the headaches", that's what I say.

They also had on hand their pretty little PGO Cevennes that looks remarkably like a Porsche Speedster which has been mildly hot-rodded. Again, this vehicle is powered by a modern Peugeot powerplant from France, and therefore supplies all the looks, with performance and reliability to boot.

Audi Q7 by ABT Sportsline

I see these types of vehicles becoming quite popular in the future, and the buzz they received at the show reinforced my feelings. You see, I feel that classic vehicles will always be in style, but for most, the idea of fiddling with carburetors and changing rusted parts is not high on the list of pleasurable activities. That is where these types of vehicles come into their own. Imagine the fun of old-style motoring without the constant breakdowns; "sheer heaven" if you want my opinion.

There was also a company called ABT Sports Line that showcased its wares. This company is to Audi what AMG is to Mercedes-Benz. Just looking at what it can achieve with a little time and money is simply amazing. It appears to cover the entire Audi range from the smallest to the largest model, and yes, that does include the new Audi R8!! (Check them out at www.abt-sportsline.com)

Naturally, they were positioned next to the Audi stand which was rather busy due to the new Audi S5 coupe on show there. Now that car is really sleek, and I can't wait to get behind the wheel of one!

Being British by birth and also a proud Canadian citizen, I was pleased to see that one of my favorite manufacturers, Bentley, had pride of place within the tallest building in the UK, One Canada Place.

Their new Brooklands Coupe is simply gorgeous; well at least it is from the outside. Unfortunately, the Jack Barclay's staff, who were representing the company, refused to unlock the doors for me to allow me to take any interior shots for you. I was politely informed that the keys weren't available at that time. Somewhat strange, as I had just witnessed a prospective customer sitting in the back seat!!!

I guess that's the way of life in the mega-money motor world. Without an Armani suit to carry your press card in, freedom of the press goes out of the window.

Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Ron Fellows Edition

Never mind, GM has always made me welcome, so I ambled along and took a peek at the Ron Fellows Limited Edition Corvette which was proudly displayed there. In fact, they draped that actual car in the Stars & Stripes, alongside a British Aston Martin when the organizers announced next year's first-ever New York event.

Of course, you will have to wait over a year for that event, so stay tuned to Auto123.com for further coverage of Motorexpo 07 (The Canary Wharf Motor show).
photo:Kevin Corrigan
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