Into cars? Well then, you probably already know this — something at the Seattle International Auto Show will likely cause you to drool.

Bring a handkerchief.
   The show runs Nov 6 to 10 at the Seahawks Stadium Exhibition Center.

As road-ready cars start to look more and more like those futuristic paragons of sleektitude (that’s sleek, with an attitude) seen in futuristic films of the past, people are ready to do more than dream.

The Lotus Elise is a prime example — fiberglass and aluminum. Cars and trucks, once thought to be streamlining a conformity program of shape, color and feel, have put on the brakes and changed direction.

On a dime.

Mini Cooper, anyone? Chrysler Crossfire? Looks like a Hot Wheels, must be great. Volvo and SUV joined as one in the XC90. And should anyone need reminding, the Corvette AKA Stingray AKA Roadster is celebrating its 50th year of cruising.

There are of course strict rules to attending the Seattle smorgasbord of speed, safety and style.

1) Take a deep breath. You’ll have 10 hours (12 if you appear on a weekend). That’s almost enough time to see everything.

2) Bring $2,000 in cash, small bills, that way you’ll guarantee yourself lots of attention from the luxury car booths. Ok maybe not the best idea after all.

3) Bring your kid, or a friend’s kid. After all he or she will be admitted free if under 12. And their enthusiasm will remind you of the gut feelings that first helped you fall in love with chrome and curves.

4) If you’re thinking of buying a car, massage your contacts here. These guys are there to show off, sure, but if they can get a deal arranged too.…?

5) Remember the mystique of a car is not always in its outward appearance. But you knew that, forget I mentioned it.

6) Vipers, Mustangs and the 7-liter Saleens, Oh my.

7) Classic and custom cars, too. C-L-A-S-S-I-C. C-U-S-T-O-M.

There’ll be a lot of gleam, so a last tip. Better, bring those sunglasses too, along with that handkerchief.

The Show:
When: Nov. 6-10
Where: Seattle Stadium Exhibition Center
Hours: Wed. through Friday, Noon-10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.;
Sunday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Cost: Adult admission is $9. Kids 12 and under free
when accompanied by an adult.
Directions: Go to www.seattleautoshow.com/new_dir.htm for directions.