I'll gladly admit to anyone that I have an addiction to classic automobiles. There is something about four wheels on a vast stretch of road that embodies the American spirit of freedom and discovery. It's a love affair that started over a century ago and continues to grasp the hearts and minds of many. Despite the factions of loyal manufacturer motor heads, there is a common bond among us all... our love for classic American cars.
I have always loved automobiles. Growing up with a grandfather who practically knew everything there was about them as well as having our own junkyard fueled that passion throughout the years. It can be said, however, that my father is responsible for igniting my unrelenting loyalty to Chrysler Corporation. I am an avid collector and admirer of all things Mopar. If it has a pentastar, it's good in my book. While the majority of classic car owners fall under the flags of blue ovals and bow ties, I join the minority of Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler fanatics. There is just something about Mopars that the other Detroit giants just don't have. Yes, we have the HEMI, but more importantly no one can deny the superior lines of a sharp Barracuda, an intimidating Charger, or a classy Imperial.
It was in 2007 that my father purchased his 1970 Plymouth Fury III. Equipped with one of the most dependable engines, the 318 and an interior that competed with an average living room, this car got me hooked. I loved helping with the repairs and it built upon my knowledge of auto maintenance and repair. From local drives down to the back roads to the long road trips to Carlisle, PA, the Fury became a huge part of my life. I will never forget the moments my dad let me drive the land yacht down the PA turnpike with the radio blasting some Creedence Clearwater Revival.
While driving my dad's car was a joy, something deep down inside made me want a Mopar I could call my own. As an avid race fan, Richard Petty was a hero of mine as well as one to Chrysler. The majority of his 200 wins came behind a Plymouth or a Dodge, so naturally I would follow suit and pick a car that the King drove to victory lane. Without hesitation, I chose the vehicle he took to victory lane in the 1971 Daytona 500, the Plymouth Road Runner. Something about the lines and sleek look of this model caught my attention as well as the legend behind the Road Runner. And so it began, my search for a 1971 Road Runner.
After five months of surfing the web and browsing through car magazines, I found one. Located in Export, PA was an F7 Sherwood green Road Runner that was calling out to me. I arranged a meeting with the owner and following a long trip out to inspect the vehicle, a deal was struck and I became the proud owner of the car of my dreams.
It has now been ten years since I first saw my dream car in a Hemmings ad and I have enjoyed all the moments I have had driving the green machine. While this hobby is expensive, it is extremely rewarding. There is something about driving a classic car that is unlike any experience one has in a late model vehicle. Everything is completely different driving something that was built to last.
This registry is meant for the 1971 B-Body enthusiast and those who have the unique privilege of calling themselves an owner of one of these vehicles. It is my goal to gather and share information about the cars we love and make this a place for enjoyment and research. Looking forward to having you join!