A steady stream of classic, and new, Fiats streamed into the parking lot of the Walter P. Chrysler Museum Friday for the Fiat Club America’s welcome reception for their annual convention, the Fiat FreakOut.
While there was a number of historical displays to see on the inside of the museum, more than 100 classic Fiats along with new 2017 Fiat 124 Spiders parked in the lot were the main attractions for attendees.
“Every year, this is a little like family reunion for people,” said Fiat Club America vice president Thad Kirk. “It is really special this year for our members to come out here and see the (new) 124 Spider in the flesh.”
The new Fiat 124 Spiders attracted admirers at the Fiat FreakOut.
The 33rd annual Fiat FreakOut attracted the old and the young from across the United States, Canada and even Europe.
Nearly 150 vehicles registered for the five-day event. In addition to the event at the museum on the Auburn Hills campus of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles headquarters, there was a poker run, tours of Detroit along with a display of cars at The Inn at St. John’s and an awards banquet.
Fiat FreakOut attendees took great care in showing their cars.
This is the Fiat Club America’s 33rd Fiat FreakOut. The event dates back to 1983 when a small group of FIAT owners met on the infield of the Pocono International Raceway for a one-day gathering. It has grown to attract owners from across the country, and some international visitors.
This is the first time the event has been held in Metro Detroit since 2007.
“This event is a great opportunity for us to not only showcase our product to our enthusiasts, but really bring in new people that maybe aren’t familiar with Fiat, and understand this thing is really bigger than just the last five years,” said Bob Broderdorf, Director, FIAT Brand North America. “This goes back to a deep heritage inside Italy and all the way here to the United States.”
Fiat FreakOut attendees personalized their vehicles.
A rare 1974 Fiat Abarth 124 Rallye was a popular vehicle at the Fiat FreakOut.
