Just because the Ferrari 400i isn’t nearly as coveted as, say, a 512 Berlinetta Boxer, doesn’t mean it’s not worthy of respect. It’s just the right car for the businessman who wants to set himself apart from the typical German sports sedan.
You’re the guy who gets respect the subtle way. You don’t demand it; you’re not the showy type.
If you’re fortunate enough to possess a Mustang Fastback — one of the grandaddies of the American muscle car — you know the respect and admiration it garners from car lovers to kids. It’s Americana on four wheels.
The Triumph TR6 is the affordable substitute for more rarified fare like the Austin Healey MkIII or the Jaguar XKE, and it’s no paltry replacement, with sophistication and masculine bravado to spare. Plus, its lighter price tag means you’ll have plenty of dough left over for a full kit of driving gear.
The Corsa was a sophisticated and sporty coupe that looks even better today, with far more panache points than its ordinary Corsa brother. The Corsa was a gentleman’s car, for sure, but it was plenty sporty, too; the potent flat six engine, crisp sheet metal and luxurious interior meant that not just anyone would look right in the driver’s seat.
If you’re in the market for a vintage roadster that adds a new dimension of style and sophistication to your life, and you’re willing to throw reliability and modern amenities into the dumpster, then an Austin-Healey MkIII is an excellent choice.
Any serious car collector will have home-grown American steel in his garage, and the 1972 Chevelle would be an excellent place to start. But don’t you dare take it for a drive without going whole hog — your gear needs to complement the Chevelle’s bad self without sacrificing a strong sense of red, white and blue style.
For those dreaming of a vintage car collection, the Datsun 240Z is a great place to start. But you shouldn’t drive it in a dirty tee and sweatpants.