European cars shine in Regina auto show

Several years ago Reg Hodsman encountered a 1992 BMW a 325is on an E36 chassis (pertinent information for car enthusiasts) and was so impressed with the vehicle he soon began collecting classic examples of the brand.

"It was just gorgeous," he said. "It was just beautiful and that is what spurred my love of BMWs."

Since then Hodsman has become president of the BMW Club of Saskatchewan. On Saturday, in Regina, Hodsman and other fans of Europeanmade cars gathered to show off their favourite examples.

"I have found that the European brands focus a little more on handling and performance than comfort," Hodsman said. "That's what really speaks to [me],what I really enjoy. These cars feel like they're very connected to the road and that you're very connected to the car."

The Saturday show was open to a variety of vehicles, from current models to classics.

Hodsman, who has owned 11 differentBMW over the years, saidpeople in the car club enjoy sharing their passion for vehicles and helping each other out, with tips and advice, whenever they can.

Blair Pateman went to the show with his 2010 Aston Martin.

"I've always liked the looks of the car," Pateman said, noting his favouriteisthe 1964 model made famous as the car James Bond drove. "It's the type of car that looks good from any angle."