Daydreaming about the ultimate fun experience with old cars

Like any hobby, being involved with old cars should be fun. If it isn't, don't do it. It's that simple. What's fun?

Let's do a moment's fantasizing about what would really be fun with vintage vehicles. About the ultimate in fun would be to have a 1932 Ford highboy roadster. That means it has no top or fenders and running boards. They say the Deuce roadster is the ultimate goal for a street rodder or hot rodder, and I'd have to agree. Buying one or building one would cost the equivalent of a modern luxury car. It's worth it if you could swing it. It's out of reach for many people.

I'm purely daydreaming here so anything's possible, right? Instead of a Corvette or Mustang, I'll hold out for that open-air tourer, with its tuck-and-roll upholstery, powerful V-8 engine, big and little tire combination and some eye-catching color. Yellow or orange comes to mind, but the color is optional.

Assuming the old hot rod either were mine or I could drive it conscience-free for at least an afternoon and early-evening, the fun quotient goes off the charts. Now's the time of year when the weather is just about ideal, not too cold or too hot. What fun it would be to drive this 1932 Ford all over town, stopping a time or two for a burger and soda! Better wear a hat and some sunscreen or the afterglow will last longer than you'd like. Maybe take a spin up to Catheys Valley and marvel at the gorgeous, scenic countryside while savoring just about the most beautiful ride imaginable. A radio isn't necessary. The engine would put out enough "music" to keep a smile on just about every gearhead's face. You don't want to stop, but the sun will go down and it will get cold.

If the old Ford were yours, it goes back in the garage when you get home. If not, you get an inkling what Cinderella felt like when the clock struck midnight. But it was fun to dream anyway.