SEMA 07: We’re back from our annual pilgrimage to the SEMA show in Las Vegas. This year’s show was definitely more subdued in years past. Many companies told us that this was a direct result of the US economic woes. It makes sense - if Americans are foreclosing on homes, they likely aren’t spending much on their hobby. Nonetheless, the show had some great new products, and companies were still very enthusiastic about the future of the hobby.

Ford had their usual prominent position at the front of the main exhibit hall. This year they were pushing Volvo performance (which I think is long overdue because turbo Volvos hold tremendous potential), and also Ford’s restoration parts licensing program. To this end they had a very impressive display of 67 and 68 Fastbacks which had been completely restored and modernized using a combination of Ford Racing parts and Ford licensed restoration parts. The biggest “part” of all being the Dynacorn fastback reproduction bodies. Ford had one suspended above the tradeshow floor for all to admire.

They were even giving limited edition 2007 SEMA Fastback models to members of the media. While clearly in efforts to invoke our support for proper licensing of Ford trademarks (remember the lawsuits?), we still thought this was a nice gift. While Ford doesn’t directly advertise or support FordMuscle, we hold out hopes of hawking this model on eBay in a few decades for major profits.