I really liked this short film. Maybe because it's the sister car to my Marauder. Maybe because of how well it was done. I think maybe, however, I like it so much is it describes the story between a man and his car for almost four decades. It's not very long, about five minutes, but basically describes the purchase of an old moonshine runner and it's journey up until now. Not restored, and never will be, but a definite part of the owner's life.

Anyway, I thought it was cool. It's probably best to let in load before watching it.

http://vimeo.com/20017992

 

In May 1964, we moved about 1 1/2 miles away into a new apartment complex. There was a fellow there who had a '64 Ford Galaxie 500 XL 427 4-speed, red with red. It was beautiful and man did I love that car. I never saw him dog it but his wife told me he raced it on weekends sometimes.

Here's something that brings back the memories, Terry. Imagine pulling up to a light with this car (would sound even better with headers) next to a couple or family in a mini-van.

"Oh Harry, I think something is wrong with that man's car".
"What do you mean, Mildred"?
"Well just listen to it. It sounds like it's about to stall out."
"It sure does. He probably needs a tune up... new plugs and things. That doesn't sound good at all."
"Do you think we should offer to help him.. maybe take him to a repair shop, Harry"?
"Maybe you're right".


And then the light changes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdv99nLDtaE

 

So true.

It's funny Paul, as I've pulled up alongside some people with cars that are factory correct, but make that distinctive sixties sound. A little overlap, a little compression, and basically resonators for mufflers. To me it sounds beautiful. Some look at the car with absolute wonderment, others look at me with disgust and roll up their windows. Sometimes my foot slips off the clutch.

Personally, I don't like the metallic twang of steel headers. Just my personal opinion. The factory long tube cast headers used on certain Ford FEs are actually very quiet, removing any resonance. I love the hear lifters instead.

Neat story though, huh?

 

Question is Terry, if you were in his shoes, would you "drive the hell out of it" or fix it up?


Also I love how he mentions a big turbo Subaru would blow it into the weeds but wouldn't sound good, the only reason I'm so in love with Subarus is because the sound a boxer motor with UELH makes, but to each their own.

 

Both cool video's

 

Personally, I'd drive the hell out of it in it's current condition. Some cars are never meant to be restored. Ever. Some develop their souls throughout the years, and their faded paint, dull interiors, rust, and leaks are all representative of certain points in their histories. To take that away only takes away the life of the car.

 

A '64 with the 427 2-four barrel 425HP engine in the condition of the ones built during that period would hand a turbo Subaru his lunch (that means beat him).