Date:         Thu, 28 Jun 2001 10:23:58 -0700
Reply-To:     pensioner <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         pensioner <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
Subject:      Truck or Icon
Content-type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

Hi Volks,

Seems there are several sets of people in the car world.

The basic transportation set uses the vehicle as a tool to move stuff.

The enthusiast set uses the tool to move stuff and enjoy the experience

The  afficionado uses the tool to move stuff and enjoy the experience and
learn the history and quirks.

The collector usually has a very high regard for the vehicle, uses car
covers, fine waxes, drives it on occasion to various occasions, has other
transportation.  (Porsche 356SC comes to mind here)

The purist uses the vehicle as a tool to move stuff ...but always uses
original parts and doesn't change any of the basic design features.

The realist understands the design shortcomings with respect to his or her
expectations or needs and will change the design or implementation to suit.

The foamer worships the car as an inviolate icon.  (23 W Type II, Tipo 61
Maserati etc).  Uses only Cherman shop rags and VAG approved and sealed
lubricants.  Still has the failure prone spring clips on the hoses.  Washes
with only pure branch water.  Spends more time and money on restoration than
on fuel.

De gustibus non disputandum est...(check with your local Catholic Priest for
an easy translation.)

I personally don't consider the "classic" status to mean that I can't change
things to suit my needs.  If down the road some purist scoffs at my work, so
be it.  If I want a beautifully customized work of art like "her purpleness"
that's my choice.

Different strokes.

pensioner  (quickly becoming a classic)