<< Back to Driving Force, Fall 2013
Colby Martin
Tomorrow's Collector Vehicles Celebrated Today
Ive wanted a Datsun roadster since I drove my buddys when I was in college, Gary Vigil explained. I wasnt intending to get such a project, but my plans changed when I had a chance to get this one. [Photo courtesy Monique Dao]
Thousands of car enthusiasts took over the streets to share their four-wheeled passion in honor of CCAD. Hopefully you got your special ride out of the garage and headed to an event near you or even hosted your own.
As a result of this annual celebration, Im asked fairly often what qualifies as a collector vehicle? My own sense is that a collector car should serve as a visual demonstration of the owners passion. While many collector cars may be sought after by a certain segment of our hobby, some likely didnt have much of a following at one point. As time rolls on, shifts in vehicle interests, trends, fads and values also occur.
Lately, it appears that the typical collector cars of yesterday are making room for fresh examples, including classic imports. Obviously, many European sports cars and exotics fell into the category long ago. Today, there seems to be a new interest in micro cars, particularly the early automotive offerings from Japan. For example, the Toyota 2000GT from the 60s is considered by many to be Japans first supercar. In fact, this rare model recently crossed the auction block for a whopping $1.2 million due to the cars limited production, impressive performance and incredible styling.
Another such vehicle, a '67½ Datsun 2000 roadster, was recently acquired by Gary Vigil, a colleague and friend from SEMAs Diamond Bar, California, office. Unfortunately, it hadnt been on the road since the late 80s. So with mere weeks left until the big day, Vigil was so excited by the new purchase that he was determined to get it to SEMA headquarters for our own CCAD event.
However, Gary is not alone. In fact, several members of the SEMA staff are fans of vintage imports and have owned them in the past. My own boss, SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald got through college in a 73 Triumph TR6.
What is clear is that the markets variety continues to develop and offer more choices than ever. To us, specialty vehicles embody the American dream. Weve all heard the well-known phrase from the Declaration of Independence: ...life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We carve out precious resources and time to enjoy freedom on four wheels. And by granting a CCAD Resolution at the SANs request each year, the U.S. Senate continues to invest in us and our beloved hobby as well. Thanks to everyone who helped celebrate the occasion. Our car-crazed community continues to enjoy a holiday unlike any other.