In a message dated 1/27/00 12:51:04 PM Pacific Standard Time,
stingray@foxinternet.net writes:
<< You might start by PLEASE explaining the huge resistance to Datsuns in
vintage racing >>
Jim:
Nothing personal. I also happen to think the 510 is a cool looking car , and
great performance value. Although I've never owned one, I've come very close
serveral times. They DO have some racing heritage...certainly the BRE
prepped cars and P.L. Newman's ride come to mind.
I believe the stigma comes from a number of factors. First, the cars are
relatively new. The first 510s didn't appear until 1969, I believe.
Secondly, the fact that the cars were so ubiqutous (read...cheap) that the
concern from other drivers is that these are truly the BIC lighters of race
cars...i.e. break 'em and throw 'em away. For some, this may encourage a
different vintage racing "attitude" when it comes to mixing it up with other
cars out there.
Third, there are LOTS of 510's still running in the ranks of SCCA club
racing, NASA and others. Some vintage drivers are concerned that these cars
will start turning up in vintage if the doors are opened. And clearly, many
of these cars are not prepared to the spirit and rule of vintage racing
organizations. They're still running in 1999 trim.
And finally, when its all said and done, the economics aren't there to
support them getting restored to "acceptable" vintage trim. You'd spend way
more than the car's worth preparing it for many vintage venues. Other "entry
level" cars (like Sprites and Alfas) are at least a break-even
proposition...but I'm not so sure that 510's are.
So, I think all of these factors contribute to the "bad rap" that 510's get.
I'm not trying to justify it, mind you, just point out what I think
contributes to the attitude regarding them that you inquired about.
Regards,
Myles H. Kitchen
1965 Lotus Cortina Mk1 #128
|