Catching Up to Speed: Friday, Oct. 17, 2008

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Hyundai recall

Associated Press reports that Hyundai is recalling more than 100,000 Elantras from 2001 and 2002. Both model years of the South Korean automaker’s sedan have ‘potential electrical problems that could prevent air bags from deploying,’ the automaker says.

Jay Leno’s legal trouble
The late-night talk show host and avid car collector may have bought stolen merchandise, reports Reuters, (via Automotive News -- registration required). The estate of John Strauss, a Macy’s department store heir, states that his 1931 Model J Duesenberg and 1930 Rolls Royce were stolen from a Manhattan garage and that Leno now owns the Duesenberg.

In other classic car news, here’s a look at some of this weekend’s car shows and events:

Chrysler Performance West Fall Fling
An all-Mopar show and shine event featuring more than 350 cars, plus a parts exchange, concessions and more. 8 a.m. to completion, Saturday, Woodley Park, Van Nuys. www.cpwclub.com

Rotary Club of Laguna Beach’s 5th Annual Classic Car Show
A long list of award categories includes antique cars up to 1931, T-Birds, woodies and classic American convertibles. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road. www.socalcarculture.com

For more events, check out www.socalcarculture.com.