1980s and ’90s car and culture extravaganza exceeded expectations.        

On August 14, the Westmount Shopping Centre in London, Ontario, was transformed into a retro extravaganza. OBLIVION IV provided an opportunity for those of us who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s to re-live those halcyon days, while getting younger generations to experience the cars, music, fashion and culture of the era. With over 200 cars registered, everything from early 1980s big American sedans and wood-paneled station wagons, to period supercars like the Lamborghini Countach and Acura NSX, there was a vehicle to suit every taste, style and budget.

Ideal mall setting

The Westmount in many ways was the perfect setting for this event, a two-storey showcase of late 1980s era decor, replete with period tiled floors, columns and multiple skylights. And with pristine 1980s and 1990s cars on display, it took many of us back to the days when car dealers would frequently display their latest offerings in the local shopping mall to gauge interest, or even raffle off as grand prizes from in-mall contests.

While we didn’t see an on-site singing talent competition, there was plenty of retro fun to be had, with supporting vendors offering everything from insurance packages for your classic, to wheels, tires, parts and detail accessories, plus retro candy, vehicle prints and of course retro clothing, including period hats and dayglo t-shirts. Outside, the parking lot was jammed with retro rides and with 1980s and 1990s music playing all day long, attendees had a chance to really celebrate the era, make new connections and strengthen friendships and ties, as well as help themselves to some tasty food and beverages. Autosphere.ca was there and brings you some of the highlights from a truly memorable day.