<VV>Mod squad

[Padgett]

> > In some ways, yes, a 55 with a 427 isn't really a 55 anymore.

Can be interesting though (see Two Lane Blacktop). It is attitudes like 
that which make for 400 point platinum class judging (years ago I created 
one for a national club. Stopped judging when I decided it wasn't any phun 
picking apart nice cars).

At the same time Corky Coker has made a fortune selling tires with FMVSS 
labels on the sidewall.

The cars I have had were all mass produced and were built to cost. 
Shortcuts were made and parts used because they were "on the shelf". 
Sometimes this resulted in odd selections.

One of the things I really like about the Corvair is the aluminum flat six 
(I really like the sound of a six, was infested by Jaguars in my yout). Do 
think for pure handling the engine should be in front of the transaxle and 
a sidewinder is more efficient (just sold my last Fiero & three of my cars 
are 3800s) for best efficiency but rear mounted does make for easier 
service and everything was longitudinal at the time, made for the most use 
of common parts.

As a consequence, if I ever had a Corvair shell that was good for nothing 
else, think I would try to fit an L37/4T60E combo in the back. However I 
like the flat six. Just see nothing wrong with bringing it up to 2005 specs 
(or at least 1986).

At the same time I have seen restorations that began with little more than 
a wheel. When all of the parts have been replaced, is it still the original 
car ? When any replaceable part is replaced with something non-original 
does it change ? Is a Fitch Phoenix stock ? If the floorboards say "65 mph" 
on the bottom is it stock ? (once had a car that the floorpan had been 
replaced with speed limit signs). The dividing point is a very fine line 
and subjective.

No question that a re-engined car is no longer stock  but there are 
modified classes for that. The BCA figures as long as the engine is still 
one that was available in a Buick, it belongs.

Frankly, I have never met a car I didn't like.

Padgett