The judging panel and Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi crowned “Hot Rod” winner David Eckert for his 1969 Ford Mach 40 as the 2012 “Best of Show” winner. The vehicle will be added to the Gran Turismo franchise and be driven virtually by millions of people worldwide. The vehicle was painted with Valspar paint. Click on Mach 40 to see three photos.
“For the past ten years, the Gran Turismo Awards has recognized and rewarded automotive enthusiasts who demonstrate passion and enthusiasm for video games, and amazing car design and performance,” said Yamauchi, creator of the Gran Turismo franchise and president of Polyphony Digital. “We continue to be blown away by the quality of the vehicles that are submitted and are excited to add 1969 Ford Mach 40 to our list of distinguished winners and to the Gran Turismo franchise.”
Prizes were awarded to:
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“Best Truck/SUV”
Sean Morris for the 2008 Toyota Dragquoia -
“Best Domestic Car”
Jim Holloway for the 2013 Ford Mustang RTR -
“Best Asian Import”
Felix Marcellino for the 2013 Scion - Evasive -
“Best European Import”
Jamie Vondruska for the 2013 Volkswagon Vortex Super Beetle -
“Best Hot Rod”
David Eckert for the 1969 Ford Mach 40
This year’s Gran Turismo Awards also featured a special performance by Snoop Dogg, who performed several of his hits.
“Gran Turismo is the most real-deal driving game I have ever experienced,” said Snoop Dogg aka Snoop Lion. “I have been a PlayStation fan for years, and had a blast helping to make this 10th year celebration for the Gran Turismo Awards into an ‘off the hook’ affair.”
