1969 Road Runner (The Bird)
The horn went "Meep Meep" and when you stepped into it, it slammed you back against the seat. That wonderful instant carburetor speed was followed by screaming pipes and rear tires that couldn't keep up the with horses. Marlboro's on the dash and sideburns you can't see.
1987 Grand National (Blackie)
Dubbed "The Vete Eater" My first intro to a Turbo; the pause and then the smooth increase- like a taxiing jet. I rarely passed one car at a time, pulling into the on-coming lane and stepping into it ... warp speed, loved warp speed.
1998 BMW M3 (The Beamer)
Classy ride, owned speed, bought with only 22K miles and very dependable. Handed down to the kids.
1999 Mustang Cobra (The Snake)
I regress. I hear "the sound" on the new Cobra. The pipes instantly make me think of Steve McQueen and his green Mustang in the movie "Bullit" I go by the dealer on duty and inspect one on the display floor. I ask if I can test drive it. They agree, but insist I go solo to do it. I suspect they saw the saliva dripping from my jaws. I go up to 280 and at the beginning of the on-ramp. I stop. I look into the rear-view mirror and lose all desecration. Nothing but smoke behind me, the tires are like soft chewing gum and finally grab, second gear and they grab again like glue. By the time I hit fifth gear I was near 140 and ready to sign a contract. When I got back the car dealer could smell the ride I took and smiled. "I want one, the next one you guys get in" The guy said, "Yessir Officer" It had "the sound" I fell off the speed wagon. Raggio, you little boy!
(I sold it when I retired. It has very few miles, but those were miles with smiles!)
1974 Alfa Romeo "Alfetta" (Sinbad)
I would sell all the cars I've ever known to have this vehicle back. No car I've ever owned was more "me" Sinbad reflected style, class and grace. Riding in it was, personal. The seats bucket seats were close, the wood dash and faces of the dials clearly followed the smooth lines and Italian accent. I so so so regret selling it, always will.
