[Zmagnette] preservation

[Steven Trovato]

Everyone says they don't care what people think, but I think they do, 
at least a bit.  That's the only reason there is judging at car 
shows.  As for this group, I think for the most part we do accept the 
"do what ever pleases you" philosophy.  But it still pleases us to 
have other people appreciate what we have.

I do think we need to clarify some definitions.  Preservation means 
keeping what is original.  Restoration can be done with an emphasis 
on originality, or it can be done while making substantial 
modifications to suit your preferences.  I would argue that one can 
fix some paint chips and still call it preservation.  But if you 
paint it the original color, that's not preservation.  It's 
restoration to original.  If you paint it bright blue or add an 
automatic transmission and air conditioning, that's restoration to 
suit your taste.  There's the concept of a "restomod" where they may 
take an American 1950's sedan and change the whole drivetrain to late 
model Corvette, add air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering 
wheel, etc.  It looks like the 50's but drives like a modern car.

As for preservation, it has been noted that with things like fine art 
and antiques, it is originality that is valued over all 
else.  Refinishing a fine antique will destroy its value.  A skilled 
craftsman might make fine repairs but  change as little as 
possible.  Sometimes, even cleaning is a big mistake.

-Steve T.

At 01:35 PM 1/27/2014, webuck1 at cox.net wrote:
>Hi all,
>My Magnette isn't even a chick magnet but, it drives, stops and 
>turns some heads. When I attend the frequent free car shows most of 
>the people look at my car and keep on going. Only the curious stop 
>to look and chat. Doesn't matter to me. All I am trying to do is let 
>the people see that 4 door MG's were produced.
>As for preservation, I will go back to original color (what ever 
>that will turn out to be) new carpet, new headliner and two rebuilt 
>front seats and an engine rebuild. I drive my car all the time, 
>everywhere, well almost everywhere. Steve, Do what you like with 
>Millicent Rose. She is a beautiful car with some touch up to several 
>items. Please the wife, please yourself. Does it matter what 
>everyone else thinks? If it were a 100 point car I would never drive 
>it. My thinking is cars were designed to drive and not sit in a barn 
>for long periods of time. Drive it the way YOU like it.
>Enjoy the Magnette(s) in your case. My MGB on the other hand will be 
>mechanically almost original. The paint with it's two sunburns is 
>not original at all. I love the color. It will sport a removable hard top too.
>Buckey