President Biden Turns Heads at Newport Motor Week Behind the Wheel of His Beloved 1967 Corvette Stingray
NEWPORT, R.I. — Spectators at the annual Newport Motor Week received an unexpected surge of high-octane excitement this weekend when President Joe Biden made a surprise appearance, driving his prized 1967 Corvette Stingray. Accompanied by his grandson, the commander-in-chief traded the usual presidential motorcade for classic American muscle, drawing roaring applause from car enthusiasts and families gathered along the scenic coastal venue.
The weekend event, renowned for showcasing some of the finest vintage and luxury automobiles in the nation, took on a distinctively relaxed tone as Biden navigated the emerald-green convertible through the exhibition grounds. Dressed in his signature aviator sunglasses and casual attire, the president took time to rev the classic V8 engine, much to the delight of the surrounding crowd. Spectators lined the driving route, snapping photos and cheering as the president waved, slowed down to chat with fellow automotive hobbyists, and shared warm moments alongside his grandson in the passenger seat.
The iconic Goodwood Green Stingray convertible holds a special place in Biden’s personal history. Presented to him by his father as a wedding gift in August 1967, the vehicle features a 327-cubic-inch V8 engine delivering 350 horsepower. Over his decades in public office, Biden has frequently spoken about his deep affection for the car, famously mentioning that safety protocols often prevent him from driving it as much as he would like. Seeing the president behind the wheel offered attendees a rare glimpse into a personal passion that predates his political career.
Events like Newport Motor Week offer a unique platform for high-profile figures to connect with the public outside the rigid boundaries of formal policy speeches and official summit meetings. Observers noted that Biden’s enthusiastic engagement with car culture provided a relatable moment of warmth and nostalgia. Onlookers praised the down-to-earth atmosphere, noting how the shared love for classic American manufacturing bridged the gap between everyday citizens and the nation’s highest office holder.
As the automotive showcase drew to a close, Biden’s appearance stood out as a highlight of the weekend, blending personal heritage, family tradition, and timeless automotive craftsmanship. For the crowd in Newport, the sight of a president cruising in an iconic piece of Detroit history delivered a memorable spectacle, proving that the universal appeal of a classic car can still captivate an audience like nothing else.
