汽车爱好者齐聚一堂

A role-call of Chevrolets, Mustangs and Cobras with attitude, have lined up alongside more humble Holdens and Fords at the 30th Canberra "Classic Wheels Show". Proud owners and enthusiasts gathered in the Australian capital to share stories, and polish their prized possessions. Let's sample some auto-mania at a sunny day out down under.

It's a leisurely drive down memory lane for visitors to Canberra's 2012 vintage, veteran and classic "Wheels" show.

More than 60 car clubs are taking part, with over a thousand vehicles making their way to the nation's capital.

Cars that were once the height of modernity, are now to be found in the vintage section.

Graham Gittins, organizer of Canberra Classic Wheels Show, said, "30 years ago they were the Holdens and the Fords. The GT Falcons and early Commodores are now classified as historic cars."

Whatever the make, whatever the style, car enthusiasts love nothing more than to discuss tinkering and tweeking their cherished possessions, so they sparkle in the sun.

An enthusiast said, "I've had it for 32 years. I got it originally as five trailer-loads of parts. It's been my wedding car, it's been my daughter's wedding car. No one could offer me enough money for it. It's just not for sale."

From vintage classics to the so-called "muscle cars", these priceless relics are pampered and preserved as if they were museum pieces.

It takes blood, sweat and tears to make an old "king of the road" look this good.

An enthusiast said, "Countless hours. It took me seven and a half years to build."

All of these car lovers at the show has a favourite, a four-wheeled friend with a very special meaning.