[napa68]

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I am trying to learn more about the Benchmark award. Is it common for a Vette to be awarded a Benchmark award with reproduction tires which is what appears to be on this incredible Vette? Its a big deal in Ford world I was wondering how the Vette guys handle it? I always thought the MCA requirement of date code correct tires for a Thoroughbred gold was unrealistic and virtually rendered a car to be like furniture. I think for a Benchmark the cars have to be able to drive 40 miles so date code correct tires might be a problem? Just curious.

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You are correct about the 40 mile test. The BG Gold / Benchmark to my knowledge does not condem reproduction tires provided they are correct in size, manufacturer,construction, etc.. The reoccuring theme for the car is as produced, no better.....no worse. I'm sure someone else will chime in. If you would like to see the poster child for BG Benchmark, take a look at Colin's car.
If you would like to learn more about the standards for Benchmark, I would suggest viewing a set of the judging sheets and discussing the subject with a BG judge. Unfortunately, the standards for BG judging are not readily published compared to NCRS. Hope this helps
Tim