A chat with Humpy Wheeler — and a look at the famous car he's auctioning

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Former NASCAR race promoter Humpy Wheeler couldn’t take it anymore. Whenever he took his vintage, restored 1953 Hudson Hornet for a spin, soccer moms would instantly recognize one of the characters from Disney’s computer-animated “Cars” movies and demand a quick look-me-over.

That’s the story Wheeler stuck to this week while discussing a living estate sale of his prized collectibles — starting with the Hudson Hornet, replete with the same stickers and decor as in the movies — conducted by Iron Horse Auction Company.

“I started looking at all the junk I had and I said, ‘Oh my God, I’ve got to do something,’” Wheeler told CBJ. “So I thought I’d have a big Humpy sale.”

Wheeler played a prominent role in stock-car racing’s growth over a lengthy career that included 33 years as right-hand man to Charlotte Motor Speedway founder Bruton Smith. He resigned abruptly in 2008, but has continued to dabble in various ventures — some motorsports-related, some not — since then.

Earlier this year, Wheeler and his wife moved from their Huntersville home to Charlotte. Their previous house is on the market and the auction items are being displayed there.

Read more and see photos of the items up for grabs here.

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