I saw a late 1960's BMW Tilux 2000 in the parking lot near work (again) yesterday. Its paint was shot and with its windows open, you could smell the deteriorating upholstery. But I wanted it anyway.What is it about old cars? They pollute like crazy, can fall victim to any number of mechanical problems and, if collectible, can cost a ton of money to buy and to restore. They aren't safe on the road (no airbags, crush zones, or likely, anti-lock brakes). But they stand out.
I read various collectible car magazines, such as Hemmings Classic Car, appreciating the 12 years some guy spent restoring his 1954 MG or 1967 Chevy, and the "driveable dreams" that seem to keep on going without anything but a tune up and oil change. But I actually have a cute little old collector's car in my garage and won't go near it.
Maybe it's all about the delta between your dreams and reality, or what you'd LIKE to like and what you actually enjoy doing. I appreciate it when those big guys run up and down the basketball court and put the basketball in the hoop but I'd never want to do that myself. When my friend hiked the Pacific Coast Trail last year I was very impressed--but I find it hard to get to my local park on the weekend.
But I still admire those old beasts as they cruise through the sea of Honda Civics, Toyota Camrys and Chevy Malibus. Give me a 1973 Volvo 1800es!
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1 comment:
Old cars are fun to admire. Indeed, they're not as functional or efficient as today's newer models, but they have a certain style to them. The designs are good. They sort of like a sculpture on wheels, and perhaps that's part of the appeal of restoring them to their former glory - like repairing a work of art.
Dante Mallett
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