Just a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend my first coffee & cars event. Such events have been featured here many, many times over the years, but attending one in person was a first for me. On a sunny Saturday morning, fresh coffee in hand, I hit the parking lot to take in the sights. Take the jump below to see what all the fuss is about. 
It turns out that 417 Coffee & Cars was first organized by a kid, just 18 years old. He wanted to do it, and no one else had. Well, it’s growing every month, and turning into quite a big event. Well done, kid.
The coffee is really good, the crowd is friendly, the hosts are gracious, and the cars are as varied and interesting as any event I’ve ever seen.
What is coffee & cars, you ask? The first thing to know about a coffee & cars event is that it’s about as far from a one-make car show as you can get. It’s open to anyone and everyone. There are no year restrictions, no make restrictions, no registration, and no judging. How much better can it get? Second, there’s a completely different atmosphere. Many car shows have vendors and sponsors that are expecting something for their time. Coffee & cars isn’t like that – you show up, have some coffee, and hang out.
For now, let’s take a look at some of the cars, shall we?

This Marauder looks great in a deep shade of plum, almost purple. These cars are real sleepers.

My favorite car at the event was a truck. A 1966 Dodge D-100, to be exact. 100% original.

The import scene in Springfield isn’t huge, but this JDM Skyline proves that there are a few here. As soon as I saw this, I said “I know a few guys on Hooniverse who are going to love this.”

They said they would let anything in, and they meant it. This 240 had no back seat and a completely rusted out floorpan, but it got lots of looks.

Remember, kids, always hoon responsibly. I hope you enjoyed this roundup, and I hope you’ll check out a coffee & cars event near you.
[Photos Copyright 2015 Hooniverse/Marcal Eilenstein]