For import car enthusiasts in the eastern states, the Carlisle Import Nationals show in central Pennsylvania has long been the place to see an incredibly eclectic mix of European and Asian cars that aren’t often seen together. And while the Covid-19 pandemic forced the show from its usual late-May date, it was a welcome sign of pseudo-normalcy in a year without events, even in August.
The pandemic undoubtedly affected attendance, however, as the show field and vendor rows alike looked to be maybe fifty per cent full at best, compared to recent Carlisle outings. In fact, certain groups were notably absent entirely, such as the genuinely enjoyable group of French clubs that typically show up. Not a single Peugeot, Renault or Citroen was to be found.
Nevertheless, a truly uncommon mix of enthusiast cars – that’s really a polite way of saying a ragtag band of largely starter-grade project cars – and their owners made the effort to gather up, show off, autocross, drift, limbo and sound off for their own enjoyment.
As in years past, Saabs and Volvos were dominant, with dozens of examples of each marque represented. Audis were also relatively plentiful, but more popular makes like Mercedes, BMW and Porsche not. Ditto for the British showing, whose numbers have been in decline for years as the event has steered away from a more traditional show-and-shine gathering in favor of activities aimed at younger enthusiasts.
One of the great joys of attending Carlisle in the past has been the vendor rows, and while this year’s vendor count was predictably lighter than usual, it still managed to surprise with odd delights and unexpected treasures buried in old boxes.
Kudos to the Carlisle Events team for making the 2020 Import Nationals happen in a strange year. Here’s hoping 2021 gets back to normal.
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