American Racing Wheels and the Classic Car

Why do people still love classic cars?

In many instances, classic cars are garbage. After all, if they were so great, they would still be making them today. Let’s face some facts; modern cars are quicker, more reliable and better handling. Let’s not stop there; modern cars are also cleaner, safer, more comfortable, more economical and, basically, better in just about every aspect.

Yet, despite the fact classic cars are clearly inferior, people want to own them. In fact, many people are completely crazy about classic cars. You have to wonder why.

Of course, there is no uncomplicated or singular answer, it is due to a combination of reasons. Here are just a few.

Design

Classic cars are desired in part due to their design. Classic cars were created by people using pencils and paper, nothing was generated by a computer. Flowing lines and elegant shapes were the creation of a living being, not a computer program. Compare a modern car with a classic car and you will likely see what we mean.

The designs of many classic cars are beautiful in every aspect and nothing that would be created today. These classic designs belong in a bygone era, a time when designers weren't hampered by trivial concerns like safety and aerodynamic drag.

Present day production techniques have all but killed much of what gives a car character. The systems used today to manufacture cars are soulless machines and computers with robots on the production line producing the very same parts 24 hours a day. There is only one goal; to meet quotas and targets as set forth by management to maximize efficiency and increase profits to make the shareholders happy.

Back in the day, car production was carried out by real human beings with simple tools and plenty of experience. They created panels by hand, eyeing each of them up to ensure perfection. These men and women were craftsmen who didn’t work around the clock and needed to take breaks. But the result was a creation that would prove to stand the test of time.

Mechanically, there are quite a few differences between modern and classic cars. For example, modern engines are basically a sealed unit, making it quite difficult for the average person to make any sort of repairs or services. Most components in the modern engine are controlled by a central brain, which takes its cues from the driver. Everything is electronic, including brakes, traction control and the throttle system.

Of course, we welcome these modern marvels because they offer safety and improve efficiency, but they also rob cars of any feel or character.

Input

It takes a great deal of manual input to drive a classic car. After all, you are the one who determines when to shift gears when to release the choke and when to adjust the air/fuel mixture. Getting all of this is challenging, but the rewards are sweet when it all comes together.

Taking a modern car for a spin is quite simple and uneventful as electronic ignitions, automatic transmissions and a slew of driver’s aids like backup cameras make driving easy, yet a far less satisfying experience.

For a classic car owner, the destination isn’t the journey, the journey is the destination.

Story

All classic cars have a story to tell. You will wonder where it has been and what it has accomplished in its interesting life. The cracks in the leather seating and the scratches on the paint on the quarter panel aren’t just imperfections, they are stories that need to be told to the world. They tell us about the history of the car, chronicling its life and giving it character. Those imperfections establish a reputation, whether good or bad.

Individualism

Owning a new car is easy, as is the process. You simply go to your local dealership and pick the car you want, just like the hundreds before you did. You might think your new car is sweet and unique, but then you would be naive. Your new car may be sweet, but it is about as unique as a business suit bought at Macy’s. Everybody has one and they are all pretty much the same color.

But a classic car, a classic car is a unique car. You can look around the city all you want, but is it is very unlikely that you will come across another 1968 Chevy El Camino three-speed manual with a 396 big block and American Racing wheels.

Not only does that scream personality, but taste as well.

These are just a few reasons why people still love classic cars.

If you want efficiency and comfort, go out and buy a new car. If you want to experience style and own a car that tells a story, buy a classic car.