My Journey with Cars at 16: From Classic Mustangs to Modern Electric
When I was 16, cars became more than just simple means of transportation; they became my world. My love for classic cars started in 1989, and ever since, I've had a collection of vehicles that have shaped my driving experiences. This article takes you through the diverse range of cars I owned, from a thunderous Mustang to a modest electric vehicle.
1989: The Black 1973 Ford Mustang Mach 1
My journey as a teenage driver began with the purchase of a 1973 black Ford Mustang Mach 1. I acquired it on my 15th birthday, paid it off just before turning 16. The frame broke after a practice jump during the first week of ownership, prompting the purchase of a 1974 Formula 400 red Chevrolet Firebird. You could often see my mother doing burnouts with it!
Winter Driving: The 1976 Chevrolet K5 Blazer
Winter demanded a 4x4 vehicle, leading me to acquire a 1976 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. I drove it full time for the winter months to handle the challenging road conditions. By the time I was 19, I had over 50 cars in my collection, many of which I dismantled. This marked the end of my active collection, leaving me with cherished memories and experiences.
Other Notable Vehicles
1973 Holden Torana
In 1973, I added a Holden Torana to my collection. This small, green car complemented my then popular Mazda. It was a fun and reliable addition to my garage.
1964 Volkswagen Split Screen Camper Van
A 1964 Volkswagen Split Screen Camper Van, also known as a PA19 model, rounded out my early driving years. This model came with bench seats and no fuel gauge, instead featuring a fuel reserve knob. The top speed was approximately 50 mph, which was perfectly adequate for my needs.
1968 Ford XL with a 390 Engine
One of my favorite cars, a 1968 Ford XL with a 390 engine and a 4-barrel carburetor, was a beast. It outperformed many powerful police intercepters, but local law enforcement managed to catch me with a 25-speeding ticket. This experience taught me the lesson that even the best cars have their limitations.
Not 16 but 17
Not quite 16, but at the end of 17, I finally acquired my own car: a 2003 Monte Carlo SS. While it had its quirks and could be a bit temperamental, it was a reliable car that served me well.
Modern Technology: 2013 Nissan Leaf
A friend of mine, not me, acquired a 2013 Nissan Leaf at the age of 17, using his own funds. At a cost of $9,000 including shipping, this was a significant investment in a modern and eco-friendly vehicle. His family wasn't known for generous financial support, making this purchase a testament to his foresight and drive.
My journey through cars at 16 not only provided me with memorable experiences but also taught me valuable lessons about responsibility and the importance of legal and safe driving practices.