With the number of car shows increasing, so does the quality of cars present at the competitions. The time of wheels, body kit and owering springs being enough to merit a trophy are long over, as this year's edition of Le salon de l'auto Sport Compact Performance demonstrated. Currently, two of the most frequently asked questions at events is "Why didn't I win?" or "What did the winner have that I don't?" The following is an illustration of what it takes to contend in today's competitive show scene.
Originality
The first thing that will catch the judges' eye is something they haven't seen before or a modification that is rarely seen. Following a trend is a good way to score points, but setting the trends wins shows. Things like custom bodywork, shaves, or even an original display for your car will catch a judge's eye. Always keep in mind that the judges may go through a hundred cars, including your own.Getting the judge to remember yours is key.
Keep it clean
There was a time when one could roll into the venue after having driven 300 kilometers , spray it down and dry it off with a chamois. Those days are over. Judges today go over each car with a fine-tooth comb. If your twin-turbo setup with nitrous is covered in dirt and grease and your doorsills still have last winter's rustproofing in the cracks you will be penalized. A point or two can make the difference between winners and losers, and the simple act of cleanliness can turn the tide in your favor.