14 Unique Cars Spotted at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

Last weekend, Motor Illustrated was at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario, for the Chevrolet Grand Prix, which prominently featured the Mazda MX-5 Cup.

Throughout the three-day event, we came across several fascinating cars around the track. It was a clear reminder of how deeply passionate Canadian enthusiasts are about automobiles.

Here’s a recap of the most eye-catching vehicles we spotted at CTMP.

Third-Generation Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

This white Z/28 is from the final model year of the third-gen Chevy Camaro, which wrapped up in 1992. Powered by a 5.7L Tuned Port Injection V8, it appeared to be in excellent original condition. These models are becoming increasingly desirable among collectors.

Nissan 240SX (S13)

Lightly modified, this first-generation 240SX is a rare survivor. Its well-balanced, rear-wheel-drive chassis made it a favourite in the drift scene. Produced from 1989 to 1994, this S13 got more attention than many of the high-end luxury vehicles surrounding it.

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL R107

The successor to the iconic “Pagoda,” the R107 still holds a special place in automotive history. This blue 280 SL featured a grey interior and the classic inline-six engine.

Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup

While the SUV version is occasionally seen, spotting a Land Cruiser pickup is much rarer. Outfitted with off-road tires, a steel bumper, a snorkel, and bed equipment, it was clearly ready for any adventure.

Fourth-Generation Chevrolet Malibu

In the spectator parking lot, we noticed a fourth-gen Malibu (1978–1983). Offered as a coupe, wagon, and sedan, this one was built in Oshawa, just 40 km from the track. Equipped with Cragar S/S wheels, it stayed true to the 1970s style.

BMW E34 5 Series and Ford Mustang Dark Horse

A purist’s dream duo. On the left: a late-’80s/early-’90s E34 5 Series. On the right: a brand-new Mustang Dark Horse, rocking a 5.0L V8 with 500 horsepower.

Intermeccanica Speedster

Not a real Porsche 356, but a replica crafted by Intermeccanica in homage to the legendary model. Still, it turned plenty of heads.

Land Rover Defender

This Defender stood tall—literally—thanks to its roof rack towering above the rest of the parking lot. A sticker on the rear door read, “Proudly turning owners into mechanics since 1948.” We couldn’t help but laugh.

Dodge Dart (4th Gen)

Track-prepped yet still bearing a personalized plate that reads “SLAANT 6”—a nod to its base Slant-6 engine, which made only 145 hp.

Subaru Sambar

Never sold in Canada, this kei van is a right-hand-drive import from Japan. Subaru also offered it as a pickup.

Porsche 944

Often underappreciated, the 944 is a favourite of ours. Its sleek lines and practical hatchback design have aged surprisingly well since the ’80s.

BMW 2002 “Roundie”

This red, wide-body BMW was a crowd magnet. Fitted with round taillights (hence “Roundie”), it’s a sought-after model among collectors.

Steel-Wheeled Porsche 911

This one puzzled many attendees and even sparked a Reddit thread. Believed to be a GT2 RS with its rear wing removed, it stood out for its steel-looking wheels, which were the main conversation starter.

The eclectic mix of vehicles at CTMP proves once again that car culture in Canada is not only alive and well but full of surprises.