Driving an old car is one thing. Living with one is another.
I've owned a 40-odd year old car for a couple years now, and it's been a very varied experience. There is a kind of wonderful specialness to every single drive, even if it's around the corner to dust off some cobwebs, or if I'm making a nine-hour slog on the Interstate. There are the sunsets unfolding across the close, flat windshield, the engine roaring away behind. There are also the frantic night stops when the clutch cable snaps slowing for a toll booth.
Still, I wouldn't call what I do daily driving. I live in Manhattan, and I commute on the subway. Though my creaking VW is my only car, I tend to drive it on the weekends and free evenings just like anybody with a recreational car would.
I've only had a glimpse at what it's like daily driving a classic. Have you ever used an oldtimer or a youngtimer as a daily? Share your experiences below!
Photo Credit: Raphael Orlove
Contact the author at raphael@jalopnik.com.