Jim O'Hara is like many Hot Rod owners. He's had a number of cars over the years and his passion for cars has enriched his life.
"My first Hot Rod was a 1940 Ford Coupe," says Jim. "I belonged to a few Hot Rod clubs over the years and now I am a member of the BC Hot Rod Associtaion."
Currently the owner of a 1948 Mercury Coupe, he has spent a lot of time and effort getting into condition to show to the public.
"It has been a total frame-off restoration with many alterations throughout. It has air bag suspension with an on-board compressor and a Ford 351W cubic inch Stroker engine. It's lots of fun to drive to Hot Rod Events."
His Mercury draws a lot of attention wherever he takes it.
"My Merc is black with deep gold fleck paint and gold plated wipers, grill, exhaust pipes and wheel knockoffs. People ask me if it's gold paint and I tell them no, it's 18 carat gold plating."
He's been to a number of shows in his life, but one in California was particularly noteworthy.
"One of the most memorable trips was an invitation toattend the 'Salute to American Graffiti' in Petaluma, California on the streets where the movie was filmed, in May, 2010 with my '48 Merc Coupe."
He has had special cars over the years, but his Mercury is his favourite.
"My favourite street rod now is my '48 Merc Coupe and before that was my '36 Ford Pick-up."
Hot Rodding has given Jim a chance to travel and bring his car dreams to life, but for him it's a source of pride that comes down to special moments.
"There have been many, such as the day you finished the car and fire-up the engine, getting ready to head off to the first Hot Rod Event to show it off for the first time."
If you want to see Jim's 48 Mercury Coupe, drop in to the show on Hot Rod Saturday at the Village at Park Royal on Saturday, August 18. It's going to be a great event.
