The old, the shiny and the unusual drew throngs to Veterans Memorial Park in McAdoo on Sunday for the

33rd Annual Antique, Classic and Special Interest Car Show and Swap Meet.

Grueling 90-degree heat didn't keep car lovers away, with about 140 entries and a good turnout by the general public for the Anthracite Region Antique Automobile Club of America Regional Show.

One of the big draws was a 1955 Flajole Forerunner Custom Coupe, a car so rare that it's the only one of its kind in existence.

The concept car was built by industrial designer Bill Flajole, who spent $80,000 and 7,000 hours transforming a Jaguar XK-120 engine and chassis into his vision of the future. In a sense, the project was completed to promote his design company and the idea worked. According to AACA literature, his car was featured in "Motor Trend" and "Sports Car Illustrated" magazines.

Today, the car is housed at the AACA Museum Inc. at Hershey. It was driven to McAdoo by Stanley Sipko of DuPont.

Patrick Burns of Freeland showed a 1970 Pontiac GTO with original paint and pinstriping

There were many entries from the Panther Valley, Lehighton and Tamaqua areas. Harry Miller of Nesquehoning showcased his 1969 Chevy Nova, originally sold by Marshall Chevrolet in Reading.

The event was declared a "no judging" gathering three years ago and the new format has held its own.

"We do have awards for stock, modified and best of show," said Joe Forish, president, regional AACA. In addition, all participants receive a dash plaque and water cooler bag.

In the past, prizes were awarded in 36 classes. However, club members felt a new format might be more desirable and in keeping with a new trend seen at car shows. Besides, said Forish, it's a matter of practicality and manpower.

"We don't have the people to judge."

Show chairman Jim Rodgers said the event ran smoothly, despite the heat.

The show has been a hit for more than three decades but has had its share of excitement, according to AACA volunteer Bill Bowman of Quakake. Many years ago a storm rolled in and an exhibitor was struck by lightning on the show field. Fortunately he survived, although sustained serious injuries.

Next year's show will be held July 7, 2019.

Caption: Car enthusiasts Jim Rodgers, left, and Stanley Sipko say the 1955 Flajole concept car is the only one that exists. The car drew plenty of attention Sunday at the Hazleton Region AACA Car Show in McAdoo. DONALD R. SERFASS/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS