As I look back over the past year in car culture, I would like to share some highlights from previous entries.
Jaguar E-Type
This spring marked the 50th anniversary of the Jaguar E-Type’s introduction. The British manufacturer produced over 70,000 E-Types from 1961 to 1975. Some of the more famous owners were Steve McQueen, Brigitte Bardot, and Tony Curtis. So what is the draw of this dream car? In convertible or fast-back coupe form, the XK-E sported flowing and athletic lines. Sensuous looks and high performance mark it as a motoring icon. Link to Jaguar E-Type.
Cord Model 810
Seventy-five years ago the first Cord 810 rolled off the assembly line in Connersville on February 15, 1936. Innovations on the Cord 810 included disappearing headlights, concealed door hinges, rheostat-controlled instrument lights, variable speed windshield wipers, Bendix Electric Hand (steering column mounted-electric gear pre-selection unit), and factory installed radio. The model was the first automobile in the United States to adopt unit body construction in its full sense. In their day, these Cords stirred the imagination of the motoring public. Their clean simplicity of line, exciting innovations, and luxurious appointments won much admiration and many awards. Link to Cord Model 810.
My reflections on the Chevrolet Centennial
My connection to Chevrolet goes back to my childhood because all the cars that my dad owned were Chevys. The first one I remember well was a 1953 Two-Ten 2-door sedan with a Blue Flame Six engine. This car was replaced by a coral pink with white top, 1957 Bel Air 4-door sedan with a 283 V-eight engine. I remember washing this car many times and cleaning the vinyl interior with saddle soap. This probably launched my desire to own a 1957 Chevy of my own. Yes, my first car was a 1957 Bel Air sport coupe, that I covered in an earlier blog.
My nomination for the Best Car Show in 2011
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway kicked off its 100th anniversary activities with the Celebration of Automobiles. The gathering of over 250 automobiles reflected the history of automotive development during the Indianapolis 500’s first 50 years. Entries ranged from a 1908 Alco 7-Passenger Touring Car to a 1961 Studebaker Lark VI sedan. The 100th Anniversary Celebration of Automobiles at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was great kick-off event for 2011 activities at the track. I encourage you to attend the Celebration of Automobiles in May 12-13, 2012. Perhaps I’ll see you there. Link to Celebration of Automobiles 2011.
Car Culture Web Resources
Over the past year, I have shared my thoughts on Car Culture Web Resources. I peruse these gems to find out what’s new in car culture. My previous “Car Culture Web Resource” offerings were Top Five Car Culture Web Resources, Another Car Culture Web Resource, and Additional Car Culture Web Resources. I invite you to peruse these resources regularly to get your fix on all things automobilia.
Thank you for stopping by Celebrating Car Culture to see what is happening. I value your interest and look forward to sharing additional car culture thoughts in 2012.
