About this time of year, everyone starts to think about those outdoor Autumn chores, hauling firewood, running to the hardware store or picking up a few things at the cider mill. Sure, a lot of folks thinking that way never hauled a load of firewood in their entire lives, but if they did, they know what they would be driving, they imagine some old Ford or Chevy pickup, or maybe an old Country Squire wagon and that’s not a bad choice. It’s a nice way to spend an afternoon, looking at the fall colors and driving down country roads while you get a few things at the store.
Those “country cars” are often inexpensive, or at least, a lot less expensive than perfectly restored muscle cars, fairly easy to fix and you don’t have to worry about a little scratch or ding along the way. It seems the mainstream press is starting to notice life’s little pleasures. I saw this article in the Wall Street Journal referring to these “country cars” as a nice entry into collecting:
Vehicles like these are ideal for people who are just getting started with car collecting or would rather spend a few thousand dollars than the hundreds of thousands or even millions it can take to acquire classic Ferraris, Mercedes-Benzes and other of the rarest, most desirable collectibles.
Well, I suppose, but you just know these buyers will be dressed in the perfect Eddie Bauer outfit as they kick the tires on that old F-100 pickup. Between this whole slew of new collectors and last year’s cash for clunkers, it’s going to be tough to find a decent old ride at a good price. On the bright side, they’ll eventually move on to something else and those cars and trucks will go back on the market.
Actually, no matter how you look at them, these older, simpler, more basic cars and trucks are a lot of fun. No computer, a carburetor, a few hoses and belts that are easy to replace, yep, a lot to like. Makes you want to go out and find one for yourself.
Link: Wall Street Journal
Images via Plan59