[Zmagnette] Preservation

[Ed Sass]

Hi Steve,

There are two (or more sides to this coin).  And it will be an individual choice.  I lean toward original cars.  If I wanted a fast car, I would have bought a 'Vet.  I don't see the point in making something dramatically different than what it was intended.  The more it looks original, the better.

I love your car.  It is only original once.  Future generations can restore it...................

Ed Sass

Edward Sass
Technical Training Specialist

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-----Original Message-----
From: zmagnette-bounces at autox.team.net [mailto:zmagnette-bounces at autox.team.net] On Behalf Of Steven Trovato
Sent: Sunday, January 26, 2014 7:28 PM
To: List for the Z Magnette Group - North America
Subject: [Zmagnette] Preservation

I would like to open a discussion on the subject of preservation.  There is an increasing interest in unrestored cars.  There is now a preservation class at Pebble Beach.  Here's an interesting
summary:
www.hagerty.com/articles-videos/Articles/2013/08/14/Old-is-New.
There are some cars out there that have been lovingly cared for and sheltered for their entire lives.  The paint might not be perfect and the chrome might show some scratches.  The seats may look like someone sat in them a few times.  It is easy to make the argument for preserving gems like this.  These cars don't look perfect and they don't look freshly restored, but they still look pretty awesome.  There are also cars out there with shredded convertible tops and stuffing sticking out of the seats that are being preserved.  And of course, a whole spectrum in between.

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I have a ZA Magnette that is very original, as they go.  Some of you know this and have seen it at the GT events in Wisconsin, Ohio and North Carolina.  There are some people who bow before it and love it for its originality.  There are others who think the only thing it would be good for is a restoration starting point.  I appreciate originality, but I have no problem with making incremental improvements that make the car more like it once was.  I think I would replace that shredded convertible top, but I would prefer to repair those seats rather than redoing the whole interior.

So, as I said, I would like to hear what you guys think about this subject.  I also would  like to learn more about techniques for improving, yet preserving cars.  I must see 100 books, articles and videos about restoring cars for every one that addresses repairs with a light touch.  There is also a NAMGAR preservation class, but its official description is "this car class recognizes those cars that the owners feel are original.  Cars in this class are not eligible for NAMGAR class awards, Premier or Premier Emeritus; it is not a voted class."  I guess I don't really see the point of this.  I don't show up at these events for trophies, but if there are no awards and it's not a voted class, I'd rather show my car with you guys in the Magnette section!

-Steve T.


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