One of the continually fascinating things about southern California, is that the classic car scene is in evidence every day. You do not have to seek it out by going to a Cars and Coffee or a club meet of some kind. You just go about your daily routine, and you cannot help but come across a classic. True to our nature here at Classic Velocity, we have categorized these sightings.
- Daily Drivers. We have regularly been surprised by what we see on the freeways and streets driving in traffic or parked at the supermarket. Many have had to make modifications to the drivetrain for daily use, such as VW buses speeding along at 70 mph on the freeways, but a surprising number are close to stock.
- Parked on the street. Another surpising category are classics parked on the street with and without a cover on them. Back east, these would be in a garage protected from the elements and out of view. Here, the elements are friendlier, and garages have all been turned into studio apartments.
- At the mechanic awaiting repair. It is not unusual to see restoration candidates and passion projects visible in repair shop yards all over the place, but again due to space and the elements, they are simply parked outside. A BMW 2000 here, a 911SC there, and a 280SL wedged in the back over there.
- For Sale. Classic cars are cool for a younger generation, and you are not going to stand out in LA with your new Lamborghini, so there is a healthy market for classics that are driven to and from work. There are dealers that specialize in them, but the online markets are active, and the more affordable classics might be scattered about on streets and in small dealer lots.
All in all, it makes for a pleasant place to be if you like classic and vintage vehicles. And we certainly do.