By Dean Sprague
Coronavirus 19 has left an indelible mark on all of us everywhere. I have been thinking about ways to avoid cabin fever. Maybe we could still have day trips if we maintain a safe social distance and remain safely in the cockpits of our classics, use lots of sanitizer and wipes or maybe not. There is that bathroom relief thing that would need to be addressed. I don’t really have a response to that. Oh well, instead this may be a good time to explore alternatives. I have several projects that still need attention. Of course my Volvo P 1800 is still patiently waiting for me. This may be a wonderful opportunity to get this thing finished or at least attack it until my resources are extinguished. I am reluctant to mention this (my wife might see it) but I am sure we all have several house/building repairs that we have let escape our minds. We could explore those as well.
This change in life style has given me lots of time for reflection. Sitting here wishing we could go out to eat or to a movie or heaven forbid a car show. While I was feeling sorry for us it actually got me thinking about the things we do have. When we were in Pre-Covid-19 I was always looking for that next acquisition, conquest or activity. I seldom spent time enjoying what we do have or have done. Always wishing for things we don't have will leave holes in our hearts and they become difficult to fill.
I will limit this discussion to vehicles wanted but it probably applies to all people and other things in life. I have always had wishes especially when it comes to that next classic or sports car. Once I finally get it I am usually on to the next thing that I can’t live without. Seldom do I stop and reflect on what I have or have had. This misdirected pattern has resulted in several hundred vehicles moving in and then out of my garage over the years. Some were wonderful, many were not but all were sincerely wanted at first. You have all heard the analogy; “the two happiest days of your life are the day you bought your first boat and the day you sold it”. I think you could supplant the word boat for any possession especially a vehicle. It’s easy to understand how this happens for example when you buy a brand new car. It’s the latest most modern of its type until it’s a year old then its last year’s model. Then you may find yourself pining for the next one instead of appreciating the things that inspired you to purchase it in the first place.
My love for classic or performance cars is a bit different than that. I always had this bucket list of stuff I wanted. I picture myself sitting in it, driving it somewhere, and doing something with it or to remember a time when I owned it before. Once I accomplish the acquisition the conquest whatever it is seems over. It becomes final and finished. Then it’s time to think about the next one.
This practice of continual transformation of earlier thoughts has stirred a new set of feelings. Actually, its more fun than I expected. It reminds me of the song from 1970 by Stephen Stills “Love the one you are with”. I am sure he was talking about people not processions but somehow it seems to still apply. So as I sit here in my man cave watching the rainfall outside unable to go anywhere fun and started thinking first about my P1800s (now in its 5th year of restoration) and what it might be like to actually finish it and then just keep it. In essence go back to my original plan as it were; finish the car use it as a club driver and short trip road car. It does have overdrive and soon to get an upgraded 134a air conditioning system to replace the old R12 one. I have upgraded the seats to full leather, am adding special insulation and frankly am replacing everything that moves and most things that don’t. Why can’t that be a keeper? I believe its one of the prettiest cars ever designed. Not as pretty as my E Type Jaguar was but the Volvo is in hand I foolishly sent the Jag to the bush. Remember the song its about here and now not then.
Next I starting think about my latest acquisition the 1962 Morris Mini Estate wagon. It’s cute to be sure but practical, well not impractical. It’s a little buzzy at road speed but tolerable and around town it’s quite pleasant and always fun to drive. The Morris is in great shape it looks and runs really better than new. The 1275cc (big block) and 3.44 final drive combined with the short throw shifter make it a comfortable classic. I could keep this car just for fun or at least until my son wants it.
Now last but certainly not least I still have my 1953 MGTD. You may remember this was my mom’s car from new. I restored it from the frame about 22 years ago. Since then have rebuilt the engine (with many upgrades), added a Serra 9 five speed and lots of continued maintenance. This car still runs well enough to be roadworthy. The values on the MG T series cars have cratered recently but since this is a “family” car I never intended to sell it anyway. The plan all along was to give the TD (Morris) to the family member that wanted it most. Unfortunately, I am not sure who that really is. I’ve had interest from my daughter in law (Jason’s wife) but not sure they really want it. I guess we will let that sort itself out later. My memories from this car go back to before I could see over the dash. This was my real first car; I learned to drive in it, went on my first date in it, drove it to high school, then college and even used it as our escape vehicle when I re-married. I’ve had hundreds of wonderful memories, trips and adventures. Now this is a car I could never just sell. It should be coveted. Not all value is monetary some things are just priceless.
This time spent in the sanctuary of our own domiciles should give us all time to think about what we have and be grateful instead of what more we still want. Maybe we already have what we need so just hunker down and enjoy the free time without guilt. Stay safe and hope to see you on the other side.
