Modifying enriches our hobby
I’m just re-reading your Classic Motor Show special (CCW, 15 Nov) – and two articles in particular struck me.
Both the pieces on the Triumph TR25 and TVR’s development of its models to accommodate the Rover V8 showed that manufacturers were not afraid to modify and develop their vehicles though I know that some factions of our hobby frown upon modifying historic cars.
I’m glad that there are enthusiasts out there who do preserve this heritage.
However I see no problem in modifying classic cars to make them more user-friendly or to suit individual needs or taste. In the past I have had a Morris Minor fitted with disc brakes, a 1275cc A-series engine and five-speed Ford Type 9 gearbox. These modifications, in my opinion, improved the car for driving on today’s roads.
I love the styles and character of classic cars, something that is lacking with modern computer-designed vehicles, and making them more usable is surely an advantage. I sometimes wish that our movement was more accepting of the different approaches that our enthusiasts have to our hobby. Long may our hobby continue, regardless of our approach.
Interestingly, that’s the very point that the founder of Electric Classic Cars made at the NEC show when it comes to electrifying classics, too, which is covered on page 4 of this issue – Ed.
A celebrity Sportsman
How uplifting to read that David Smith saved a Standard Vanguard Sportsman SVC 812, restored it, and treasured it for 36 years (CCW, 29 November).
Which magazine or newspaper road-tested it? The Autocar road-tested a Sportsman on 31 August 1956. But which one? Unusually, the test featured photos
