Drivers --Cars for Regular Fun


Last time we talked about what is a classic car, or a muscle car, or a show car? When is it original? How original? Is it restored, refurbished or renovated? Another term often used to describe a car is, “it’s a driver.” And, what makes it a driver? The fact that it is driven? How often? How far? Does it matter? How about daily drivers? Regular commute to work? Every day? Some days?

Well, to each his/her own definition. But we really like cars that get driven on a regular basis. At least a couple of times a month and more than around the block, although around the block can be good, you have to start somewhere.

Most really well restored cars are not going to be daily drivers. Although I sometimes wonder if we’ll spend $25,000 to $35,000 for our car (read current model), why not drive a "daily driver?" After all, if it was restored once or twice before, it can be restored again. Of course that’s not too cost effective as the value doesn’t really (despite some examples of appreciation) rise in proportion to the work and cost put into the car. Some cars may be too valuable to be more than trailer queens or to even leave the vault.

That’s why I personally like original or refurbished cars that can be safely driven and enjoyed for their original purpose, that of transporting someone from point A to point B. The Whippet in this video is a case in point. No, no Whippets came in that color blue. And if you were to examine it closely there are some bumps, dings and a couple of paint runs. But overall the car looks and runs pretty good. It is an original six and yes it is prone to overheat. But, that’s getting some attention and appears will be better at least. I’m not sure if it is the tiny water pump at the front of the long six or scale in the engine. Repeated flushing has helped. It has not had radiator work at this point. It’s just fun to see it getting around again and the grandson it the video thinks it pretty cool.

If we drive some of these great old cars, even occasionally, it is even better than the trip with the kids to the car show. Somehow the youngsters seem to like motion and, in some cases, a little noise. Kids, constant motion, noise, who of thought that?

When you can, get out and roll.