Do You Like Pre-War Cars?

For me it all started with ’40 Fords, ’57 Chevys and Vettes. Then Cobras, 911s, Daytonas, and on and on. I was always fascinated by post war, full bodied cars until I saw your story on Cyclekarts. Since then I’ve been enamored of the idea of building my own miniature pre-war race car. Through the guidance of that community I’ve learned a lot about this fascinating era of autos. Bugattis are just the tip of the iceberg. It’s amazing reading up on the early designers and what they were able to come up with in those early years and then what the Germans did in the 30s. Fascinating machines and times. A personal favorite is the 1927 Delage Grand Prix car.

As a teenager falling in love with cars, I never cared much for pre-war cars. But I began to volunteer at the Simeone Foundation Museum and it really opened my eyes to pre-war cars. The Alfa’s of the ’20’s and ’30’s are absolute works of art, especially under the bonnet. The two Bugatti’s in the museums collection, a Type 35 and the legendary Type 57G “Tank” are engineering perfection. And then there’s the really early racers; American, National and Mercer; who’s giant displacement engines make such sweet music. But away from the race cars, the museum has 3 Auburns, an Oakland, a Page, and 2 DuPonts.

What really made me fall in love with pre-war cars, was getting the chance to ride in the Museum’s 1929 Stutz Supercharged Le Mans. The beautiful body and smooth but muscly straight-8 hit me in just the right spot. Since that ride, I have fallen in love with Stutz.

As a mid-20-something, I don’t have many friends that share my love for pre-war cars. In fact most my age would be hard pressed to name any pre-war car maker. But I pride myself on my love and knowledge of these cars, and when the older generations begin to dwindle in number, I hope to carry the torch of the early years of automotive history.

Yeah … I really do . Fact is I love em ! Granted they are all to a number quirky , oddball and obstinate pains in the keister to drive … especially Bugatti’s of the era … but the minute you finally get your head around them …. hopefully after much instruction … good lord there is nothing like pre-war cars on the planet to be driving … tastefully as the site would infer . Add to that they are the one and only era of cars of which it is not only acceptable … but almost downright mandatory to be driving in period correct clothing …. Having your lady by your side suitably dressed as well only adds to the experience . Though errr … I’ve not been beyond toddling down the road in a Type 35 wearing shorts , tie dyed T Shirt , Persols and a ball cap myself … being the obstinate iconoclast that I am