[Tigers] unrestored classics - New York Times

[Steven silverstein]

The New York Times story was a very good article.   Over the years I  
have been involved with the VSCCA, a racing organization that really  
focuses on the preservation of sports cars as they are.    In fact,  
there are a number of really great un-restored cars I race with  
including Sandy Lieth's Bugatti and Sandi McNiel's 250GTO.   Of  
course all these cars have been "refurbished" mechanically but still  
very true to their originality... and they race them.

In fact, it was many of the VSCCA members who convinced me to leave  
the Sports Car Forum Alpine alone and try and keep it as original as  
possible.   Sure, it looks crusty when compared to many of the  
restored cars but I think it draws just as much attention.

I would like to see more cars left alone.  In fact, it makes me think  
I should leave the MkII we recently bought as it is - taking care of  
mechanical issues - but leaving as much alone as possible.

Steve Silverstein

BTW< the black Series II Alpine which is "as is, 1968..." took a 3rd  
in class at the Lime Rock Concours.  I thought it was generous that  
the judges award the place to the Alpine but I also think they really  
appreciated the preserved look.   (I was surprised how much the Black  
paint DID buff out!  Almost too shinny.  If you could see the garage  
pictures when it was found you'd understand.  I think the dirt  
preserved the paint)

http://www.saoca.org/gallery/IMG_1607.jpg

http://www.saoca.org/gallery/P1030322_2.jpg

http://www.saoca.org/gallery/IMG_1604_2.jpg