Bob Hudson slips behind the wheel of his 1967 Ford Mustang GTA and cranks the ignition.

The double-car garage reverberates with a throaty roar, courtesy of the gleaming engine that lurks beneath the Mustang’s hood and a Flowmaster muffler that chugs along in time.

The cherry-red coupe rumbles pleasingly as Hudson, a local merchant and classic car buff, recalls the glory days of the automobile.

“When I was young, everybody wanted a Mustang,” the 59-year-old says. “Of course, I couldn’t afford one back then.”

Hudson concedes the cars of yesteryear rarely offered the creature comforts of the less-than eye-catching models that are the norm in today’s auto industry.

“But they are fun to drive,” he adds with a knowing smile.

Hudson’s vintage Mustang will be among hundreds on display during downtown Orillia’s 10th-annual classic car show, taking place in the city’s core Aug. 15 and 16.

Organizers anticipate as many as 25,000 people will drop by to marvel at the more than 450 vehicles that will line local streets.

“It’s one of the few shows you can talk your wife into spending the day at,” adds Hudson, who chaired the inaugural event a decade ago. “With more than 150 shops in downtown Orillia, it is an easy sell.”

Children’s activities, food vendors and a celebration of the city’s automotive heritage are also planned, notes Daniel Kerr, manager of special events and business development.

“Not a lot of people know, but way back to the 1890s we have been involved in the automotive business up here in Orillia, and we are paying homage to that,” he says. “We are going to have some horseless carriages, as they were called at that time.”

Orillia was once home to the Tudhope Motor Company, manufacturer of the acclaimed Tudhope car.

“We’ll have classic cars from every decade dating back to the 1890s,” adds Allan Francoz, an event organizer.

Live music will again play a prominent role at the upcoming event, with a Friday evening performance by Freddy Vette and the Flames at the Orillia Opera House.

“They are always a great time if you like the music from the 50s, 60s and a little bit of the 70s,” Kerr adds.

An outdoor stage stationed in the downtown on the Saturday evening will host noted Eagles tribute band Hotel California.

“It’s a great way to spend a hot August night,” Kerr says.