When you're a full-blown gearhead, each auto show, no matter how small, is a reason to celebrate the wonderful world of cars. However, when an event such as the Chicago Auto Show comes right after Detroit, the year's first major show, things aren't that exciting. Although there are a few cool cars worth mentioning, such as the Volkswagen Arteon, trucks from Ram and Toyota TRD, and a race-spec Hyundai i30 N, Chicago was packed with cars we've seen before and not-so-impressive limited-edition models. Fortunately, this year's event also included a big display of vintage vehicles.

It's always cool to see so many classic cars in one spot. I don't about you, but it takes me back in time to an era when automobile design was more about the looks than the aerodynamics. It also reminds me of the good old days when big-displacement engines were the norm. Not that I'm against eco-friendly and fuel-efficient drivetrains, but big fins, spacious interiors, and big V-8 engines make a great combination. And there's plenty of that in Chicago, especially in the Klairmont Kollection that's on display here.

Make sure you don't miss it if you like big luxury cars from the 1930s to the 1960s and be on the lookout for a few unique vehicles, such as the 1955 Ford Beatnik Bubble Top. Created by Gary Fioto, this thing looked as if it came from another world back in the 1950s thanks to its lexan bubble roof, sculpted fenders and wheel covers, aggressive fins, and the big engine popping through the hood. The one-off Ford is estimated to worth around $300,000 and you probably won't get to see it anywhere else anytime soon.

Then there's the incredible Rolls-Royce Phantom III Aero Coupe, a massive two-door that puts the iconic Bugatti Atlantic to shame. Built in 1937 with a unique body, it features a massive 7.3-liter V-12 engine rated at 165 horsepower. It's equipped with independent front suspension and semi-elliptic rear springs, centralized chassis lubrication system, automatic shock absorbers with over-riding hand controls, and servo-operated brakes, which made it pretty high-tech back in the day. And it's worth close to $1 million nowadays!

If you're into wagons, make sure you check out the 12-seat Cadillac Broadmoor Skyview, but there's also a finely restored Lincoln Continental from the 1940s. You'll also find a Batmobile, a 1970 Ford Mustang convertible, and a big batch of old police cars. It definitely makes a trip to the Chicago Auto Show worthwhile. Check out the gallery for more photos.

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