Well, I'm Trying!

As Walrus3 said, though, space, time, money, skills, parts, etc.

My 1969 144s, Black with Burgandy ("Wine"?) interior. Just like the one my Dad bought as his first new car, and passed down to me while I was at Penn State. (I also now have his '86 240 DL, and long ago repainted and sold his '73 for top money)

and four other current cars to pamper......

Tends to keep the pace of this rebuild to a minimum. I see the annual Carlisle Import Show looming in the near-distance of late May and I ask myself: "What have I got done on this project since last year?"

And my answer goes:

"Well, you bought a race car last August which has been hogging all your garage space. And your haven't had your 240 on the road for a year now, and it needs everything done for inspection. And the 740 turbo (a/k/a "The Tow Vehicle") STILL doesn't have a new heater core! The Avalon needs an oil change, an outer CV joint replaced, rear brake rotors, and I'd love to buy it some Billy TC'S....."

You get the idea.

But the recent thread about the 144 turning 40 has inspired me.... It is the photo of *my* car there (in that stunning Black) that truly motivates.

Although mine is a 69 (not the '67 like Dad's) it really is the spittin' image of his/my first car. I was so proud of him then, as he was proud of himself for affording that car, and extending himself beyond his middle-class means to afford himsef what was some luxury for the time. (Too bad the damn fool didn't believe in AC!)

So, now I am trying to restore his car AND enter the Giant's Despair Hillclimb this July with the Ford Escort Gt ITB racer.

You see, Dad took us to this now 100 year-old event and thereby gave my brother and me our passion for the cars of the 1960's.

I am very prroud to be owning his original "new car" and looking forward to honoring his memory by driving the "Giant" this July.