Get ready to rev your engines and dive into the world of high-octane glamour, because Summernats 38 just crowned its most jaw-dropping rides! But here's where it gets controversial—while some winners were crowd favorites, others left enthusiasts debating whether style or originality should reign supreme. Let’s break it down, starting with the Tuff Street Champion, where Timothy McDonald’s 1971 Ford XY Fairmont took the top spot, leaving Daniel Souvleris’ 1976 Holden HJ in the dust for second place. And this is the part most people miss—Tuff Street isn’t just about power; it’s about the perfect blend of performance and presence, something McDonald’s Fairmont undeniably delivered.
Next up, the Show & Shine Standouts showcased six vehicles that stopped everyone in their tracks. From Ashley Bell’s 1972 Ford Fairmont to Andrew King’s 1974 Holden HQ Kingswood, each car was a masterpiece in its own right. Victor Yeghoyan’s 1964 Chevrolet Belair and Jere Paolo’s 1972 Holden HQ Premier proved that classic American muscle and Aussie icons can coexist in harmony. Meanwhile, Paul Jaggs’ 1968 Holden HK Ute and Adam Cecil’s 1965 Ford XP reminded us why utility and style never go out of fashion.
Now, let’s talk PPG Supreme, the category that boldly highlights the clash between restoration perfection and custom creativity. Younan Khazi’s XE Fairmont snagged the win, but the real debate lies in the runners-up. David Pellicone’s 1968 Chevrolet SS Camaro and Martin Pecotich’s 1969 Holden Monaro sparked discussions about whether factory-faithful restorations or bold customizations deserve the crown. Gavin Paul Knight’s 1964 Chevrolet Impala and Timothy McDonald’s Fairmont (yes, he’s a double threat!) added fuel to the fire, while Jayden Kraft’s 2015 HSV Maloo brought modern flair to the mix. Greg Green’s 1961 Holden EK, Rodney Grima’s 1962 Holden EK Special, Josh Sergi’s 1955 Chev Belair, Marion Breski’s 1967 Ford Mustang, and Michael McGrath’s 1971 Holden HQ rounded out the list, each a testament to the passion and craftsmanship of their owners.
Here’s the burning question: Should awards like PPG Supreme prioritize historical accuracy or celebrate innovative customization? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on what makes a car truly supreme!
