Why race your supercar

[sYc]

Rob is out of town for a couple of days, following a successful night at the track. He and a friend went to Test and Tune at Memphis last night, only to find the place packed, with both racers and spectators. He was afraid that he might not get to make very many passes, but ended up making a total of eight, all in the 12s. He even set his, and the cars, personal best of 12.799. On top of that, the car was a huge hit. After his first pass, and once the announcer and the crowd realized that there was a "real" Yenko Camaro atttending, Rob was swarmed by fellow racers and fans. He was barely able to tune the car between passes because of the attention the car was getting. Everyone was asking questions, with several taking pictures. He finally took shoe polish and wrote "its real" on the back window.

That is one of the neat things about owning/racing a Yenko, the attention it generates where ever you go. And, it allows the newer generation to see first hand what our cars and out hobby is all about. Believe me, racers of all ages have respect for any car that can run in the 12s in factory stock trim. It is one thing to debate whose/what car is faster on buliten boards, but a whole different game at the track.

In closing, I would encourage any one who owns a supercar to do the same. And, I am sure many of the guys who have raced at a SCR event would tell you the same. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[Casey Marks]

Way to go Rob !!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[T Billigen]

Anyone with a matching number "Super Car" would be crazy drag racing it! Thats like an unrestored original, "its only original once" You blow part of your drive train, there goes your originality! I'm glad I got drag racing out of my system years ago! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[Jeff Murphy]

That's excellent!! The cars are super cool static, but man when they are doing what they were meant to do..."it's something else" (no pun inteaded Mr. Barnhart).

The best part of Reunion 5 for me was the day at the dragstrip. Same for all the sportsman competitors that lined the fences when the SCR cars staged and ran each other. I can't wait for this year!!

/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Definitely 'Cool', one of these times Rob will look over and see a Gobi Beige Yenko Deuce /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[sYc]

Then why bother paying the big bucks for a big block supercar if not to drive/enjoy? If only to impress the judges at Super Chevy, a low HP car is a lot less expensive. The supercars (as well as all muslcecars) were built to perform, not show. Joel's guarantee was not "if people do not look at your car, I will refund your money, but a 11 second ET or your money back". Fred Gibb, Don Yenko and the others did not set out to create show cars.

The day I stop enjoying the brute force of my Yenkos will be the day I stop breathing (or at least I hope so). /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

And by the way, the original engine for our Camaro is being redone and hopefully will be installed in time for SCR6 and the Pure stock Drags.

And, I can not wait to see what it feels like to drop the hammer on our '69 427 Yenko Nova. Hopefully is is not a "lethal weapon" as Don was quoted as saying. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

WHY? You see, in reality, they (the cars) are only bunch of over priced sheetmetal. A blown engine, damaged sheetmetal, minor details. Anything on the cars, and if needed, a whole car, can be replaced. What IS important is enjoying life, including the cars. How many times on this board have we expressed our concerns over the untimely passing of some ones loved one. Now THAT is important. Even though I did not know the young man who lost his young son in a fire (another thread), I guarantee he would trade a whole stable of supercars to have his son back. Who wouldn't?

You see, I have almost been there. When Rob was 17, he flipped/totaled a very rare, numbers matching 1964 Corvette, which he and I had restored. He was ejected, landing in the middle of the road. My wife and I were called to the scene, which I will never forget. Ambulance, firetruck and wrecker lights flashing, people crowded around a back board which Rob was strapped to. Being around the funeral/ambulance buisness all my life had not prepared me for this. They loaded Rob in the ambulance, with my wife going along to the hospital with him. I was left to sort things out at the scene and then drive up. That is when things became real clear. Upside down in the middle of the road, in a million pieces, was what I once thought was everything, my "Vette. Not anymore. My everything was in the ambulance. Fortunantly, the good Lord took care of Rob that night, as after 8 days in the hospital, he left with only minor damage to a disk in his back and a lot of road rash.

So now, hopefully you see why I feel the way I do. I am simply honoring a deal I made that night, standing in the middle of the road, to cherish each and every moment I spend with my family and friends, doing the things we enjoy (including racing our supercars). You see, each second we get to do that is a gift from God, something that no amount of money can buy.

[T Billigen]

That was alright years ago before these cars became survivors and a important part of automobile history, I think it much better to try and preserve these cars than beat the snot out of them on a drag strip. My Opinion /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[Belair62]

The only one I haven't whipped the snot out of on the street is the Y Chevelle ! I took a friend outin the Camaro who never heard of a Yenko and beat hell out of it...he was a bit pale after that....and the Camaro is not even that quick...although it will beat Supercars' B/M car.

[Casey Marks]

Well said Tom ! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

* Drive it like you stole it ..... *

The reaction that Rob got at the track is worth its' weight in gold as far as I'm concerned. That's what memories are made of ...... Car show trophies are dust bunny magnets ...

[budnate]

Interesting topic guys,Ö. I used to buy stuff and horde it away and was afraid to use it because it was rare etcÖ, But now at 40 I lean towards the Use it take Darn good car of it, but enjoy it crowd.
My car is a 48K Orig piece with an old repaint that has seen better days, am I going to run her down the strip you bet! But the orig motor will be under the bench when that happens, everything else can be fixed if it gets hurt.
I have seen to many old friends in the trade that never did much because they were saving for the cabin or the motor home etc, then they dropped over one day at work or were diagnosed with Cancer and lost that battle before they reached there retirement and Goals.

Lifeís to short guys, save for retirement but enjoy life and do the things that you enjoy even if it costs a few bucks, we never know when our number is up!

I donít own a Supercar per say, but my take on the whole thing is there enough on display and locked away, there is no reason to not run some of them without fear of them becoming extinct.

Hot rubber at ya, Bud.
/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[KENNY_PASCOE]

I THINK ITS COOL THAT THESE GUYS ARE OUT HAMMERING ON THESE SUPERCARS. AFTER ALL, THAT IS WHAT THEY WERE MADE FOR. I MUST ADMIT I WOULD HAVE A LITTLE CONCERN GOING THRU THE TRAPS AT 7000 RPM KNOWING THE ORIGINAL #'S MATCHING ENGINE IS IN THE CAR AND ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN. DONT WISH BAD ON ANYONE JUST A THOUGHT..... KP

[T Billigen]

I don't think there anything wrong with drag racing, I probably did more racing than most people on this site. I just can't see ruining thse valuable cars. If you want to race build yourself a tribute car and race that. Ala 2fast 2furious. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[JoeG]

I really don't agree with racing an original car on a regular basis-- but they were meant to nudged now and again [ my excuse , to blow out the carbon ] Originality means some sort of history and you can replace an engine when it launches a piston thru your hood, but you can't replace the hitory.All that said ---nice 1/4 time, but you'll probably get lower than that. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[olredalert]

------I have to tell you that when I was out cutting low 10 second times in "Red Alert" at various different Nostalgia drags,I really felt that I was somehow serving the history of the car.Bob Hamilton,the "man" who made it famous,was so happy I put it back on the strip he was in tears.If any car belongs on a race track,its "Ol Red".The old war-horse is now in a state of retirement,and deserves it,but it could be resurrected!If a car could talk,that old 70 Chevelle would say "lets get it on".
------Reading this back to myself it sounds kind of corny,but Im not changing a word...........Bill S

[Keith Tedford]

We put over 160K miles on our COPO car the first time around and never broke anything. There were a lot of 6K plus shifts in that time. Using heavier valve springs and a rev limiter and you just about can't hurt one of these engines. If you want to show the car, that's fine. If you want to race it, that's fine too. There seem to be a lot more people taking their cars out and enjoying them. It's almost impossible to have a perfect show car and drive it too. Personally my wife and I just like to hop in the car and go for a nice long drive. The most fun we ever had was the drive down to Maple Grove for the Super Chevy show in our L78 car. The run to Woodward Avenue was equally as fun. We video taped a lot of the run to Woodward and the tape entertains us during the winter months. Just make sure that you enjoy these cars, in whatever way you see fit. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[JoeG]

If any car should be a part of automotive track history it should be RED ALERT [ I've always been a big fan -- even have the die-cast model].I was really commenting on numbers matching cars , not celebrity, in the spotlight caliber of car. To me those particular cars were a head above the rest. O.K. I've got the seat belt on my chair buckled --Fire Away /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[COPO PETE]

You guys racing these cars...... What are ya thinkin?????? It's OK to shift them on the street a 6 grand but not at the track! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif
Peter

[SS427]

I've said it before and I will say it again using WWII warbirds as an example. Life will be different the day people quit flying their P51s, Corsairs, P38s, etc. They are just not the same on static display. A good example is one recently discussed here. The P38 Glacier Girl that was pulled out from under the ice in Greenland. A priceless airplane that they wasted no time getting airborne. What a waste it would have been to retore this airplane only to let it sit in some museum somewhere which thankfully they are not doing.

Like anything else, enjoy them but take precautions and care for them. Our younger generation needs to see these cars/planes in action if we can ever hope to keep the hobby alive.
Rick

[70 copo]

Guys, I really have to tell you Tom is 100% right. I did a fanatical no expence spared restoration to my 70 COPO 9697 RS Z/28, won numerous awards with it and have displayed it all over the country. It is now stored in a bubble. What do I miss the most is driving it. Problem is - the car is still competitive as a show car. When I get the show thing out of my system the car will be returned to the street/strip. That is what this hobby is all about. As I look back on my memories I seldom recall the many trips to the stage to get the award. What I do recall is power shifting the car at close to 8000 RPM, and looking in the rear view to see the guy next to (and behind) me fading fast. I am fortunate to have other cars to "beat up" on the street these days- but none have the same feel. That is why the car will return, and again be driven. If the original engine blows... that event will become part of my history with the car. I have owned it for 24 years now. For the non show car guys you need to definately drive them. That is where the fun is. It is too late to have fun with your friends when you are gone, because the cars do not have fun we do- this whole hobby is about friends who come together for a good time. If you are "in to these cars" it has gotta be because you drove one in the past and were impressed with the raw power!

Look at Mark Hassett - and the cars that he has run down the strip. His ZL-1 was at 7400RPM at the end of the track at the 01 SCR. He has no regrets about driving/racing it, or any of his other cars.

Mark's dad has Clark Gable's Indian motorcycle- Mark's Dad was hit head on last year while riding this (one of a kind) bike on the street. His life was nearly ended by a 16 year old. He lived - and has recovered for the most part. The bike is now being rebuilt. Mark's dad will ride it again. The guy that fixed the heavy damage to the frame on the bike - delivered it himself to assure it would arrive in perfect condition -all the way from out west

There is a friend indeed!

I guess the key is to pass through this life with no regrets!

Tom, keep up the good work.

Phil /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Mr70]

I Couldn't agree more.No sense in owning a 3500 pound paperweight.But I do understand what Tom B. and Tom C.are saying.
I enjoy the restoration process more,when I get out and feel the actual car driving down the road,Accelerating and Cornering.
It's like telling somebody they are loving their wife and kids wrong.We all enjoy these cars in our own Way. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

[sYc]

As I have said in the past, if not careful, we are headed down the same road traveled by our "Vette brothers. Their hobby got to the point that cars were being restored/shown without any of the fluids ever being put in the cars. The cars were being pushed where ever they went. Many of the other ones, which did have fluids in them, could barely get out of their own way. And, we are talking about some of the rarest hi-performance cars built. Finally, a couple of the larger shows decided it was time to end all of that, so one of the requirements for the top award was a car must perform at a certain % it was capable of when new. To them, and I agree, a car is not restored correctly if it will not perform anywhere close to the way it was built and thus, should not receive top honors. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

Think how exciting Vettefest (or other large shows) would be if any car wanting to acheive top honors had to perform within a certain % of when new. Then, awards such as the "Top Gun" award would truley go to a car(s) that was befitting the title. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[sYc]

Great post. And, by the way, Mark is one of my heros, as he truley does enjoy his cars. And, rewards do come. When Mark out ran the clone in his ZL-1 at SCR 4, it made the event. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

And Mark, drive the B-M car yourself. I know Rob, and others would love to drive the car, but you deserve, and should be, behind the wheel. It does not matter if you are a "professional" driver or not, go for it. What ever your ET, I can guarantee that there will be one person wating for you in the pits to shake your hand and say "thanks for the memory". Little ole me.
/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[T Billigen]

Everyone has there own opinion on this one! If you do a 40K frame off resto you really don't want to take it out where some idiot is going to run into you. I agree these cars should be able to start and run the way they did when they were new. I have been to car shows where they would not start the car. I don't think some of those cars even had pistons in the engine! All your big car shows now will ask you to start your car if there is any question about this. If you like to race em or show em that is your business. I had my day in the sun drag racing so now I just like to sit and relax and listen to the comments people make about these old cars. A couple of years at "Super Chevy" in Joliet I had my Yenko Chevelle displayed, there were people packed around this car for two days, most people have never seen a Yenko Chevelle. One fellow there was with his young son and his comment was " take a good look at this car because you will probably never see another one". 70 COPO, I would be willing to bet you never drive that car /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif Rick, how many times have you taken that red Chevelle down the drag strip? This is one of the best Chevelles I have ever seen! I know you don't drive it on the street much either! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif I won't take my car to the strip because all you drag racers would beat me, I would be afraid to crank it over 3K! but by the same token you racing guys can clean em up and bring them to Vette Fest this fall and I will line up with you in front of a judge. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[70 copo]

Have I driven the 70?

Yes. Over 8 miles total - since restored. Some of the worst:

Mid Ohio at the Camaro B-Day Party. 1.5 miles from trailer parking to the show- dirt return road to (dirt/grass field)

Mud at that show also.

Super Chevy at Indy 1997 2.2 miles from the trailer to the grandstand area-much of it stop and go in heavy traffic. 90+ degrees that day - hot and dusty. Yep, I even clipped into 4th gear that day.

PS. I am one of those Chevy-Vettefest Gold Spinner Judges.
Hope to see you at the show.


Phil /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[T Billigen]

Whoops! I won't say anything to get you upset! See you at Vette Fest! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

[82z96ss]

THis is a good post. My comment is this: most of the Supercars were drag raced in the past. So woundn't those make for more valuable cars since they have a history of being raced? Bill S. racing Ole Red Alert, just brings more history to the car.

What was more memorable at the SCR-4 ZL1 beating the Clone or who won the best show car?

My vote would be the ZL1 beating its clone but I wasn't there.

[Supercar_Kid]

[ QUOTE ]
What was more memorable at the SCR-4 ZL1 beating the Clone or who won the best show car?



[/ QUOTE ]

There is no "Best Show Car" at any SCR's, Thats why they are so cool! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[hvychev]

Guys of course I am with the thought if you can't drive it why own it? Even if I spent 50-60K to restore a car I would still drive it. I know my car is not a supercar but I raced it with the original engine. If you want somthing that is pretty to look at then invest in rare art. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[JoeG]

I don't think there is a right or wrong in this topic, it is just an opinion on why you should or should not race a supercar. I was pretty lucky, I guess like a few others were, to have been around when these cars first came out and raced every chance I got, maybe I might just appreciate the cars a little more because of this ,don't know. But since they are kind of special today I kind of wince when I see them raced on a regular basis hard with the original powertrain.
Everyone can either show their cars , nudge them now and again or race them till they can't run anymore that's o.k. because they are your cars , but for us older sentimental guys watch the 6500 rpm power shifts. IMO /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[T Billigen]

These cars are "rare art" /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
but by the same token you racing guys can clean em up and bring them to Vette Fest this fall and I will line up with you in front of a judge

[/ QUOTE ]

Even though I gave up chasing trophys years ago, Super Chevy took care of that, I will make you a deal. You make a pass or two at SCR6 and I display a car(s) at Vettefest. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[T Billigen]

I never had any trouble winning 1st place trophys at "Super Chevy". I also won a lot of 1st place trophys at the drag strip. But as I stated, let the young kids race there new cars now and retire the old ones. My son has a 01 Camaro that is in stock trim that turns 12.2s at 117 mph. He tunes it with a computor! How do you compete with that! I would venture to say he would clean the clocks of most of the old muscle cars. You can still come to Vette Fest, you don't have to compete with any other car, just yourself. Its all in the detail! See if you qualify for a Gold Spinner! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[mhassett]

Tom, I did NOT ask for the race BUT the guy was edging me on in front of Phil and Jeff so I had to race. I was Nervous but confident in the car, I knew I couldn't sit there and spin my tires so I took off easy (too easy) as the car bogged, then I punched it and power shifted (no tach and 4:88 gears). When I put it in 4th I looked in my mirror and the clone was so far back that I let up. I guess Life is Too Short so we should Enjoy our cars. I guess I will make a Fool out of myself and race the MOTION at the Reunion. With me doing the driving I Wonder if Joel will buy it back if it doesn't run in the 11's. Drivers Wanted!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif Mark

[70 copo]

Mark

Ok. Count me in as a back-up driver- only if you chicken out! (not)


Phil /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
never had any trouble winning 1st place trophys at "Super Chevy".

[/ QUOTE ]

Me either, got a jacket to prove it, but got tired of playing the games. And, no offense to VF, but a Gold Spinner does not interest me. Cause now the only detailing I enjoy doing is changing jets, adjusting valves and checking the timing, air pressure, etc. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

As per competing with the young kids, that is the whole point. To show them what these cars were/are all about. I am not afraid, or ashamed to run one of these young guns. Yes, they may out run me, but it is amazing the respect you gain by just showing up and trying. More times then not they come away with a whole new perpective of our cars. I for one am not ready to retire, me or my car(s). /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[T Billigen]

I never had to play any games? Why don't you bring your car to Indy, you don't have to get judged (no games). You get to see and talk to tons of spectators, get to see all the drag racing you want and you get a 1st place jacket and the best part it is free! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[JoeG]

You've got a win-win situation , if you don't run 11's Joel will buy your car back[ hopefully at ebay prices] and if you do run 11's you get to keep the car.!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[sYc]

Matter of fact R. Gustin has invited me to do just that, more then once. And, he wanted me to bring along some friends (move the SCR). But, for reasons posted elsewhere, I/we choose to pass. Instead, my plans include taking my fuuny car to the Hot Rod Reunion in Bowling Green in a couple of weeks, a couple of cars to the York and Gibb shows, and of course, 2-3 cars to SCR6. In between I am sure Rob will not let the Camaro set idle. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[T Billigen]

Maybe next year. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

[T Billigen]

Out of curiosity, how many people actually drag race their car at the reunion? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[T Billigen]

Out of curiosity, how many people actually drag race their car at the reunion? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[SS427]

One other item crossed my mind last night while thinking about this thread. If not for me going to the drags in the 70's and 80's and seeing these cars running, I would not be in the same place I am today and likely would never have gained the interest that I have today. My daughter sees these cars in my shop all the time and when her friends comment on "just a green car with stripes", she informs them exactly what these cars are. She is only 14 and a girl but knows the difference! If we don't let our youth experience these cars, they will never gain the interest and appreciate them. The reason rice burners are sought after ny our youth is because they are everywhere. On the streets, at the shows, at the drags and in the movies.
Rick

[T Billigen]

You are right about that! My son grew up on muscle car stories about my experiences from the sixties, I guess that is why he is a gear head today! He likes to do his thing with his 01 Camaro, he told me he would never want to take the Yenko Camaro down the strip though. "to unsafe" He never really experienced going through the traps at 120mph with slicks that had only 6lbs of air in them! What a ride! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif Hey, still waiting to hear how many of you "Super Car" guys drag race them?

[Kim_Howie]

Tom, I raced my 427 nova for 10 years. I also went to Indy Super chevy and raced there. Mick Price, Ray Morrison and Gary Dyer showed cars that year also and NOTHING was announced about any of them. What a disapointment NEVER been back. My 70 ZL-1 will also be raced. I have the best of both worlds, I can go out and race and also show the car. Kim Howie

[Chevy454]

Without going back and looking it up, I'd say we probably average 12 Supercars at the drag strip each year. The cruise drew about double that last year.

It's interesting to see the reactions of different Supercar/Musclecar owners over the years when we bring up drag racing at the track. About 90% of the time you get the "are you crazy!" response...they usually follow this up with how unsafe it is at the track, and how they don't want to tear up their car.

But, let's stop and think about this for a second. How many of the Supercar/Musclecar owners have taken their cars out on the street and ran their cars up to their redlines before shifting, whether it be giving a neighbor kid a ride or just a short jaunt on a lazy Sunday afternoon? I'd say the vast majority. Also, I hear stories (and see pictures on this site!) of owners doing burnouts in the street, parking lot of a show, etc. How is this any different from racing? Answer: it's not. I'd rather do my thing in a controlled environment (ie. drag strip), where you have a miniumum of 30ft. in EACH lane, you don't have to worry about someone pulling out in front of you, you don't have to worry about anything (rocks, liquids, holes, etc.) being in the track, and if worse comes to worse, their is ALWAYS immediate medical personel watching each and every run.

Just curious, Tom: why does your son feel your Camaro is "too unsafe"? Have you scared the bejeezits out of him with a couple of short blasts?! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[T Billigen]

No, but he scared the hell out me in his car! He doesn't like the steering and the brakes., also he says the steering wheel is to big! Hell, these brakes are great compared to the brake drum GTOs. He went and seen 2F 2F last night. He said they ran the wheels off the Yenko in the movie. There was an article about this car in Motor Trend Magazine: it ran 13.4 at 110mph. Not bad for something they just put together for a movie. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[JoeG]

[ QUOTE ]



I'd rather do my thing in a controlled environment (ie. drag strip), where you have a miniumum of 30ft. in EACH lane, you don't have to worry about someone pulling out in front of you, you don't have to worry about anything (rocks, liquids, holes, etc.) being in the track, and if worse comes to worse, their is ALWAYS immediate medical personel watching each and every run.
-------- On this I agee with you 110%---- I wish we had more adult guidance when I was street racing , some of my good friends would still be with us. ------ /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[T Billigen]

I would spend 2-3 days a week at the strip and still be down on the Aliquippa Boulevard all night racing! I remember lining up on the toll bridge on the far end and race down thru the toll booth entrance! That poor guy in the booth would almost have a heart attack when he seen us coming at him at 100mph. When your going that fast those entrances seem really small. We would do this just about every Friday nite, I can't believe they did'nt have the cops waiting for us. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[JoeG]

Pretty exiting, but reckless times,--- I was a little younger and full of vinigar.Did some of my street racing on the waterfront-Marginal ST / 1st AVE. B'klyn. --Sometimes 1000 + spectators.GREAT 1/4 mi. stretch, you had to remember where you were and not take the race pass the 1/4 mi. line [ especially if it was close]. You see down at the end of this strip of waterfront were R/R tracks with box cars on them. If you got carried away and stood on the gas too far past the 1/4 line you can bet they would carry what was left away.Unfortunately a few got carried away and the police and fire dept closed the area down. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[Jeff H]

I have no problem with driving a high dollar, rare performance car, but drag racing it at the dragstrip is for the rich and famous. It's easy to say that anything can be fixed or repaired, but no insurance company is going to cover your car that gets damaged going down the strip. Since I'm not one of the rich and famous, you'll never see me running my JL8 down the dragstrip or on a road race course if I have no insurance coverage. I'll drive it on the street where it's covered. I've spent the last 5 years of my life saving money for this car and its restoration. I can see if you are the original owner of a supercar and paid 1969 prices for it and still race it today. That's different if you never plan on selling the car. I'd love to see someone running their original supercar down the track, but it won't be me. This is just my opinion and point of view.

[T Billigen]

Amen /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/scholar.gif

[JoeG]

Well there's the other side of the coin!! Who wants to recieve first? If debates were that simple. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
I have no problem with driving a high dollar, rare performance car, but drag racing it at the dragstrip is for the rich and famous. It's easy to say that anything can be fixed or repaired, but no insurance company is going to cover your car that gets damaged going down the strip.

[/ QUOTE ]

So, tell me: what is the difference between doing a burnout or running it through the gears on the street, and doing the same on a drag strip? Dropping a valve, spinning a bearing, slinging a rod, etc., is the same on the street as it is on the strip...you break it, you buy it!

I'm also curious where everyone gets the idea that drag strips are so dangerous? I've raced on the street and strip since I was 16 (I'm 27 now) and I've YET to see an incident at the dragstrip...I wish I could say the same for the street!

At the Supercar Reunion, we worry 100 times more about the cruise than we do about the racing...

[JoeG]

Rob,
There isn't any diference between street racing and racing on a sanctioned strip, except safety[ good diference].Why should you race a supercar?-The topic covers a large area.-IMO--YES-because it is the most fun way to get from point A to point B.
I know I'm gonna regret this but , Should you race a numbers matching supercar? If you can afford the cost to repair any part of the HISTORY of the car[ NOW WAIT-by history of the car I mean the original parts the car came with when built [ not to do with notoriety from accomplishments ]

[JoeG]

HIT THE WRONG BUTTON ON THE MOUSE!!!-----CON'T.-Investment, sport , hobby, whatever I think what we all have in common is the love of cars?--- Like I said broad topic.
JoeG

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Just race 'em at the track instead of the street! Compared to the track, I have broken 10x more stuff and had more fender benders, just driving regular on the street! If it breaks - fix it, if it gets bent - straighten it, they are only cars and can be repaired forever.

It took me one show to get that debacle out of my system - what a farce. The plastic brass trophies, gold spinners, jackets etc... for what? Mark, take that 70Z28 out and drive it. JeffH, when you're car is finished you will wonder what to do next - drive it and race it!

I'm too young to retire the car and babysit it at car shows. I go to shows to see friends and their cars, I own the car so I can drive it and race it, that's the enjoyment for me. Hopefully, in a few years, it will be X2 once the '69 SS gets finished.

/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[Jeff H]

I'll drive it on the street, but not at the track if it's not covered by insurance. If you're going down the quarter mile and an axlse snaps, a tie rod breaks, you're gonna be kissing the wall and in for a complete restoration all over again. I've seen it happen and I'm not in a financial situation to do that. Just look a the Hurst Olds Kevin was going to buy. Sh!t happens, but if it happens at the track and your insurance company just laughs at you, then you sure put yourself in a bad situation.

[Chevy454]

Ok, I can *somewhat* see your point on the insurance thing, except if you snap an axle on the track you "kiss the wall" and walk away, but on the street you hit a telephone pole, the ditch, oncomming traffic, or...? And if you sling a rod or drop a valve on the street it's still coming out of YOUR pocket, not the insurance company's. I see people show out on the street all the time, but mention the track and they "I don't want to tear up my car"! Huh?! Shifting at 6,500 is the same on the street as it is on a track.

[Jeff H]

I think some people see a difference between hard street driving and all out drag racing. As one of the guys in our club said when he's shifting his 99 Camaro SS, "shift it like you're trying to break it". Most people don't take that approach on the street. I personally don't race anywhere, but some people do still race on the street and I wouldn't condone it. I watched a guy spin his car into the wall at Englishtown when his brake caliper locked up. Like I said, sh!t happens and that had nothing to do with racing, but his car won't be covered because it happened at the track.

[JoeG]

Good Morning Gentlemen,
My name is Lynn Guini, I am JoeG's attorney and will be answering any future questions on this topic. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif

[sYc]

Jeff, As per insurance coverage at the track, I have had more then one owner check on this very thing. Here is what they found out. Most insurance companies state in their policies that they will not cover a car "competing", whether drag racing, road course, etc. But, most policies do not make exclusions where one can and cannot drive their car. Thus, even though a car may be at a track, it is covered, as long as it is not competing. No different then taking your car to a Super Chevy, Car Craft, or any other show held at a race track. Making a single pass down the track, with no tree, is no different then drving down the street in front of your house. Well, a little different, it is safer at the track. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[whitetop]

Tom
Holy Cow. Your definition of "is" is makes Bill Clinton look like the Pope. I think you are wrong on this. You are splitting hairs on technicalities with your insurance policy and I would not trust yours or anyone elses reasoning to this "loophole" of yours. So you are telling us that if you are racing someone you are not covered but you are covered for a bye run when running only by yourself??? Racing is racing whether you have a christmas tree or not. Having your car at a Super Chevy show as a car show participant is a hell of a different matter than racing your car down the strip at the same event whether you are racing somone or not, Christmas tree or no christmas tree.
Hope this loophole is not being used by you or someone to make them feel better when racing their car down the strip.

[Chevy454]

As explained to us (I believe) by the owners/operators of Music City Raceway at SCR1, if the clocks/scoreboard were turned off then it was considered like a "parade lap"...some parades just move faster than others! Some of the cars chose to simply make a parade lap, while others made a full pass. After the "parade lap", we were all given the option to run again, this time with the full tree/timers, with the understanding we would be uninsured. Some ran again, some didn't.

[sYc]

Did some checking. During four SCRs, we have had over 35 different, documented supercars compete. This figure would have been higher, except for the fact that SCR2 was rained out. That year we had over 20 cars signed up to race, including ZL-1 #1 (which is coming back this year). I realize that 35 may not sign like a lot, but remember this is 35+ different cars. And, several of them are the rarest of the rare, such as Ray Morrison's one owner, all original '68 Gibb/Harrell Nova, a '67 Yenko, several ZL-1s, etc. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a real supercar make a pass? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

And, add to this list the number of cars that make a pass or two in the parking lot before/after the show, and/or during the cruise, and I would say that 3/4s of the cars participate in showing off the performance of their cars. Just watching the cars in the lot before and after the event is a sight to behold. Charley's ZL-1 #3 in the rain, Dennis Hartweg's early Saturday morning warming up his ZL-1, Joe kicking in the 2-4s in the rarest of rare, ultra low mileage Harrell Chevelles, Tony filling the night air with tire smoke in his ZL-1, the list goes on and on. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

Now, I do realize that this is not for everyone. Some of the cars that attend the SCR are for show purposes only. No problem, that is why I spend several $1000s to have the show portion of the event indoors, in one of the nicest indoor facilities in the US, to allow the cars to be showcased in the best venue possible. But, I will admit, I do my best to get all owners to show the performance side of the cars (at least a little). If I had to guess, I would have to say that the cruise is the most popular event at SCR, because most owners do enjoy driving their cars, regardless of the risk. Well, except for watching 40+ supercars exit the building into a nice, big parking lot. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif Last year the cruise took over 30 minutes, at times through heavy traffic. WOW what a sight, with the majority of the cars attending the event participating. But, as Rob mentioned earlier, even though the cruise is the most poplular event, it worries me the most. No one, and I mean no one, would hate for something to happen to one of these rare cars any more then me. So, that is why I doubled the budget for SCR6, to allow for a safe venue to show case the performance side of the cars. That venue is Gateway Int. Raceway, a state of the art racing facility, which we have rented for the day. That way, any owner who would like to "show off" a little, can do it in the safest of enviroments. It does not have to be in a side by side, 'balls out" drag race. Any owner who would like to simply chrip the tires and then cruise down the track is more then welcome. As I have said a 1000 times, the ET does not matter, just as long as the car is there. To me, that is history, in the making. Before we leave the track, I hope to get every musclecar there to cruise (do a parade lap) down the track. Talk about a Kodak moment. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[SS454]

Being in the auto body end of things I would have to say that your ins company would tell you that you are on your own with that.I had a customer a couple of years back had a mishap with a nother car on the street. Got a ticket for drag racing and they did not cover a thing! They told him go ahead and sue them but he just paid it himself. Any my point is that was not competing just going fast. If you are at Road America and you go on there pace lap or parade lap and you crash your ins comp dosen't give a cr*p all they will say is that your where at a race track and you are not covered. OK I could be wrong /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[sYc]

Sorry, but I think I am right on this one, as this was not me who was given this information by their insurer, but a well known collector, who not only helped host SCR1, but had 3 Yenko Camaros participating at the track. Between us, I do not think he got where he did by miss judging loop holes. And, by the way, as I visited with a couple of the well known classic car insurers (about event insurance), we discussed this very issue. You might want to do the same with the insurer of your supercar. The key word is "competition". /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Jeff H]

That's what I figured could happen if you're out street racing as well as racing at the track, your insurance company could drop you and not cover the damage. That is too big of a risk for me to take.

[sYc]

Getting a ticket, especially for drag racing, would shed a whole 'nother light on things. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[T Billigen]

I guess I will keep mine a trailer "Queen"! I just don't want the hassel of trying to straighten that original metal. As far as safety goes, the track is deffinately better, although I have seen some pretty bad accidents on the track also. Seen a fellow break an axle and go end over end. Did'nt kill him but put him in the hospital, seen two people get their feet cut off with a blown clutchs and a young lady lose control at the end of the track and run into a bull dozer. (6 months in a body cast) As far as insurance coverage goes, I would lie and tell them I was not at a race track if you had an accident there, because they WILL NOT pay! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[JoeG]

Friendly question---Is this unofficial car insurance being offered by a company/group at special events only,to help promote the HOBBY? It would good P/R in an unofficial way. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[sYc]

I can think of more trailering accidents then race accidents, including ZL-1 #1, which was consumed by fire while being trailered to a show, I believe a Super Chevy event. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

I guess the best bet would be to store these cars in a climate/moisture controlled, fire/storm/water/ safe building and never remove them. Kind of gets down to this "do we own our car(s) or do they own us?" /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[JoeG]

QUOTE:
"do we own our car(s) or do they own us?" :

[/ QUOTE ]--- Unfortunately the bank still owns mine. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[olredalert]

------Toms right about the trailer accidents as the only scratches I ever put in Red Alert happened in the trailer.
------My wife and I were at the Ferrari national meet a long time ago in Palm Beach,and they had a driving event at Moroso.Some guy in a brand new Testarossa(sp)was out there doing hot laps and lost it.Did a horrendous amount of damage,and we heard that he had it hauled to a public road,found a bridge,unloaded the car,and tried to stage an accident.Most of the attendees got a heck of a charge out of this,and to top things off he got busted by the police for giving false info,as well as some other stuff.Insurance not only disallowed his claim,but charged him with attempted fraud.The following year,although he didnt show,we heard the whole fiasco cost him around 300 large and more than one night in the Graybar Hotel.Ya wanna play,be prepared to pay!........Bill S

[Chevy454]

Boy, JoeG, I can relate to that bank thing!

I think it should be required of EVERYONE even slightly interested in the older cars to attend the Pure Stock Drags in Michigan at least once. It sure opened my eyes! It's like a big car show (120+ cars) except it's at a drag strip and all the cars make passes! And if you think the cars their aren't show cars, you are SADLY mistaken. I've seen some of the best restorations I've ever seen in person at these events, and watched these same show winners drive from the pits to the burnout box and then make a pass. Yeah, not all of them set the world on fire, and for some that's not the goal. But I can guaran-darn-tee you that EVERYONE who has ever attended one has had a GREAT time and would consider it a do-again. Each year, the list of people who mark it on their calendar each year as a "must do" continues to grow. And, I'm proud to say I'm on that list!

[Jeff H]

I would never say to store these cars away in a safe place where nobody could ever enjoy them. I'm just saying that I personally can't afford an accident with no insurance to help offset the accident. We all know what happened to ZL1 #1 and I'm sure it was covered by insurance so it means you can restore it again. If I wreck my JL8 doing laps on a road course, it's not gonna be covered and I'm out more than $75K which took me at least 10 years to save up for. If you bought a Yenko or COPO back in 69 or the 70's when they weren't very expensive and you have no plans on selling it ever, then there really isn't much of a risk to continue racing it. Now if there is an insurance company that covers vehicles being raced, that can change everything.

[Denis]

Rob, do you have the schedule and location for upcoming pure stock drag events? After seeing the roster of cars from the last get-together, I think I agree with you that this is a must-see thing.

[T Billigen]

I went to a few pure stock drags back in the late 80s at Quaker City, Salem, Ohio. I remember a real neat 66 four door red Impala, 4-speed, 427-425 with all the paper work, matching number car. First run he ran in the 12s, second run he blew a clutch, later he blew the rear end. Sounds like a lot of fun to me!!!!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif

[Norm reynolds]

As far as racing a rare classic car I agree with T Billigen 100 % Lord knows
My vette had its war stories raced it hard for 30 plus years and kept going but after 50.000 to restore it I WILL NOT RACE HER ANYMORE I do not feel the need to push her anymore she disserves to be pamper Ten years ago I might have felt different Now I know its my age but my drag racing days are long gone and I do not need to prove what she can do Been there done that and I can not afford to keep fixing it if I break it and it takes all the fun out of it There are other things in life that are more important like my family and to keep blowing money every time I break it is a waste of money. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif Family needs are more important

[T Billigen]

Thats the way Reynolds! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[JoeG]

RACE- /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif
DON'T RACE- /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

No losers in this one--------IMO /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[68l30]

These are the reasons you need two cars.A very good friend and myself had the same problem.Both had cars that neither wanted to risk breaking at the track.We both decided to go partners on a car to race.We bought a muscle car,68 Road Runner,and beat the snot out of it.Neither one of us felt like we owned it! Drive it like you stole it brought on a whole new meaning.We built it right.It was still a money funnel though....This was a great solution to "our" problem.We did it every week.....If you "RACE IT" it will break.There is always a weak link somewhere,and you will find it when you least expect it.I lost three new motor mounts at the 60' with street tires(L-60 Inglewoods,remember?).Fan through the radiator,massive coolent leak,nice fishtail across both lanes missing both guardrails.What a ride........Anything is possible...Be careful.. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif


Steve /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
I went to a few pure stock drags back in the late 80s at Quaker City, Salem, Ohio. I remember a real neat 66 four door red Impala, 4-speed, 427-425 with all the paper work, matching number car. First run he ran in the 12s, second run he blew a clutch, later he blew the rear end. Sounds like a lot of fun to me!!!!!

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, I bet the "stickies" he was running didn't have anything to do with it, either. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif

[ QUOTE ]
Rob, do you have the schedule and location for upcoming pure stock drag events? After seeing the roster of cars from the last get-together, I think I agree with you that this is a must-see thing.

[/ QUOTE ]

Factory Stock Musclecar Race: June 14-15, 2003
Pure Stock Musclecar Race: Sept. 13-14, 2003

Both EXCELLENT events.

[COPO PETE]

Been watching this post for dayz!!!!! I can hardly find time to catch up on the reading. I feel there is a place in this world for both types. I know some people think I'm out of my mind racing my cars, especially when they see them in person. Some just can't believe it, and that's OK. There is a place for the museum cars, and I don't hold a grudge against those that do that. Some limp off the trailer, and that's fine too. Everyone is differnet. For those that race em occationally /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif For those that just show them /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif If I just paid someone $60,000+ to restore, I would likely not want to race them either. It's your car, and you should do what your comfortable with. I hav'nt had my original cars to the track in a couple of years. I did have my orange car out Friday night, and had to take it to 6 grand a couple of times.... just to make it happy to be out! That is why I built up my white COPO car....to have some fun, and see how fast I could really get it to go. Some think I'm nuts, and some have a lot of respect for me. Just don't look down on me, cause I'm liking it and it keeps bringing up the COPO name in these pure stock drag races. Just trying to keep the spirit alive. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif It's amazing the reaction of the boys in my sons grade 7 class and grade 9 class. These guys know what a 69 Camaro is, and want one, and I think that is important for the future of the hobby!
Peter

[68l30]

Pete,you have the right idea! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif I'm sure the white car takes some of the abuse/fun away from the others.Sort of a purpose built machine....Love it!

Steve

[JoeG]

Why race your supercar-- I think the movie is coming out soon!!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[T Billigen]

Thats what makes this forum the "best". Everyone is passionate in their beliefs but most people here understand how the other guy feels! And the combination of these passions will keep this hobby strong! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[82z96ss]

Showing them off on the Street and Strip. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

I think the overall opinion, "racing at the track" about scares everyone. What was the first thing your mom said to you when you went to race a car at the track? You are doing WHAT? YOU'LL KILL YOURSELF. So you sneak off to race on the street instead.

For those of you that show your cars, please had over your motors. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif Your car will look just as good with out one as with one. I'd love to drive a big block, doesn't even have to be in a COPO car. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Thanks Reynolds! I thought I had a chance with T.Bill - but then you joined ranks /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

I see both sides, but isn't just a whole lot more fun to race 'em? I think those guys who have hung up their racing should share their tips and secrets with the rest of us! I don't care what people think of me for drivin/runnin my car, it's downright fun!

[sYc]

As per taking risks, I guess I should not mention that my youngest son took the Yenko Camaro to his high school prom the last two years. Talk about stepping back in time, two teenagers, all decked out, arriving at the prom in a 1969 Camaro. Needless to say, he was the envy of his friends. Rumor has it he "showed out" a little. Must have got that from his mother. Right Rob /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

Besides the thrill of driving/racing, the exposure/attention we have received has been kind of neat. In the 6+ years we have owned the Camaro, here is some of the coverage it has recieved. 2 page pic in SC of it racing Mark Kickle's hugger ornage Yenko at SCR1, cover of Muscle car Review doing a burnout at Pure Stock Drags, (set sales records), pic in SC doing a burnout at the FBody Gathering, pictured several times in MCR participating at the Pure Stock Drags, part of a feature on COPOs on Speed Vision, part of segment on SCR on My Classic Car, pictured on newest JL diecast, scheduled to appear Yenko poster/drawing. I am sure there are others, but these are the ones that come to mind. And the reason? Certaintly not because it is the nicest or most correct one out there, far from it, but because we are not afraid to drive it. And hopefuly, once finished, our Nova and Chevelle will receive the same. I realize some owners do not enjoy this kind of attention, but we kind of dig it. And, I think is has helped educate the public as per what these cars were/are about.

[SS454]

Tom,to your youngest son /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif
/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Kim_Howie]

Tom , my youngest son took my rs-ss camaro conv't with 41 opts to home coming in 1991 I was more afraid of him driving around town than i have ever been on a race track. The thing about a race track is the car is teched and checked of safety which i don't know about the idiot on the street. Give me the track any day compared to the street.

[JoeG]

I'm one of the new kids on the block when it comes to this forum, but I've kinda been hanging around because it seems no matter how a topic keeps going around in circles , mostly everyone seems to find a common center..---Very REFRESHING. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Somebody point this poor guy to the Douglass topics /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[Alwyn678]

To be honest I would be scared of blowing it up. Then what is it worth?? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[sYc]

Kim, That is the parent in you. We can protect our kids from a lot of things, but not idiot/drunk drivers. Just yesterday I visited with the mother/sister of the 18 girl who lost her life due to a drunk driver (BAC was over .300). /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[JoeG]

[ QUOTE ]
Somebody point this poor guy to the Douglass topics /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[/ QUOTE ]
Took a quick look------WOW!!!---Talk about take no prisoners---------- That's O.K.--as long as they can't reach thru the computer screen and punch me!!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif---Can they?? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[Jeff H]

It's always good to hear other perspectives and opinions on certain subjects.

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

JoeG;
Even with 6+ pages of sometimes heated dialogue, everyone agrees that the Douglass cars are a very cool part of the SuperCar hobby, and have a lot of mystique about them. I believe we all respect each other's opinions, it may not always appear that way in a given thread but in reality we do.
/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[JoeG]

GOOD GROUP--- /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif--Gotta get back to work /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
To be honest I would be scared of blowing it up. Then what is it worth??

[/ QUOTE ]

To me, it does not matter. I will fix what is damaged and go on. I own these cars to have fun, not the $$$. If it were about the $$$, I would sell out today.

I compare it to investing in the stock market. If you can not afford to loose, best not play. As valuable as the cars are today, a change in trends, a uprising in the Middle East (no oil), whatever, could change our hobby and the value of the cars in a heart beat. The cars could depreciate just as fast, or faster, as they appreciated.

The supercar hobby is what I do for fun, my hobby. As long as it is fun, I will continue doing it, if not, I will move on to something else.

[SmallHurst]

I just found this topic and I have got to say that to question wheither you should race these cars is silly. It was said early in the post, if you want an award winner, buy a cheap, low option, underpowered, paperweight and dump a pile of money on it. I understand that some of you guys are playing with lower production numbers than I am, but you have to understand why these cars were so popular: they would go like stink down the quarter mile! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif Rob and I had a lot of time discussing lifes little events as he was hauling my car with the 'Yenko up to Martin a couple of weeks ago and we came to the conclusion that sheet metal can be straightened and motors can be rebuilt.

Some of you are asking what this a-hole is doing commenting on this topic. I have a '69 Hurst/Olds with 39,000 original miles on it. When I purchased it in '95 it had 24,000 miles on it. When I was hauled up to MI, it was only the 4th time the car had been hauled on a trailer since I have owned it. I had to drive over 200 miles to make the point so I could have the car trailered up. I had to drive over 200 miles to get back home after the race. On the way back home, the passenger glass was busted out by a rock thrown from a semi as I was passing him. I am not going to stop driving the car because of that incident. The local drag strip announcer comes to life when I go up and do my burnout. I am doing with the car what I want to do. COPO Pete has the correct idea, a restored car is not correctly restored until it can run a number down the drag strip! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

If you are afraid of blowing up an original numbers engine, pull it and put in another bullet. The real one will sit in the corner and be fine as you thrash the crap out of the "cheap one". Build it like you want, drive it like you want, but keep them going no matter what! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Yea! What he said /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[Jeff H]

Well, if you're gonna put in another motor to run it, why not just build a clone from a 6 cyl car and run that? There are valid arguments for both sides and my biggest argument why I won't be racing my car is because it won't be covered and I'm not a wealthy person. I'll be driving it, but not racing it.

[Supergas990]

Since I don't own one (yet), it's probably not fair for me to say that I'd race and drive it for sure, but I think I would.

It seems to me that car guys and gals tend to get equal amounts of enjoyment out of finding, building, restoring, showing, driving, racing and even just talking about their particular pride and joy. But even more so, is the pleasure each of us gets from seeing the general public's excitement when they see a car like they dreamed about in 1969...

With regards to insurance for these vehicles, I can speak to issue, as it's what I do for a living. The deal works as follows:

Virtually sll standard insurers (American Family, Met PC, State Farm, etc...) WILL NOT cover these cars for anything in virtually all situations, whether being drivin on the hwy or track. Or if they will provide coverage it's on at a level I'm confident wouldn't replace a NOS hood. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

There are however a number of specialty insurers for collectible car use on a limited basis (usually by an annual mileage limit). This coverage is provided on an agreed value basis, with a known appraisal and numerous amounts of documentation. This coverage comes with a pretty fair price tag, depending on the value of the vehicle, but will resolve many of the insurance concerns raised so far.

Believe it or not there are alos insurers that will provide 1/8 and 1/4 mile competition insurance for cars /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif, as long as the vehicle is no faster than 8.50 seconds (1/4 mile). This coverage is offered with a fairly high deductible, but will provide coverage for controlled drag racing events. There is no street use coverage under this policy.

The one issue that everyone seems to agree on is that the owner of each car should enjoy it as they see fit. These cars represent a great deal of financial investment, not to mention the blood, sweat and tears associated with the restoration of them.

I hope this doesn't stir the topic too much more. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

Blair

1970 S/G GTO
1967 Chevelle

[68TopStock]

Tom,

Well said, you are my hero. I can not wait to have one of my sons at the track with me, maybe this summer yet.

For the others in this discussion, I must add that I have at times been a bit intimidated to race my car, however, that said, once I started, I must admit it is a gas! I do not believe I would have much of a desire if I cloned another car to be Fred's 1st car, and then had to do some explaining to the folks at the tracks. Just wouldn't seem right. I like sitting in the real thing.

Anyway, it really isn't the cars, its the people involved with them.

[jaze70ss]

I stood on my fathers 427 air cleaner when i was just a lad. He was kind of pissed at me.... that was about 1972 and it was from his 63 galaxie r car. The rides I got in that car lit the fire i feel today. If you keep packing these cars in museums their legacy will just become some old stories.... Eventually, the only enthusiasts that will care about them will slowly die off. After that the value, and finally, the fun. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

jay b.
70 L78
63 galaxie 406