Not a song about cars perhaps but the best song about truck driving with the name Alice in it ever written. And no need for a cocktail either with Lowell George's request for 'weed, whites and wine' providing the long distance hauler's pick-me-up. The Lotus Elite has nothing to do with it.
A diverse selection this week as I have become a little bored with the predictability of my choices for the list lately. So let's start with a couple of interesting projects before we get to the buy of the month...
1954 Skoda 1200 Until recent rescue by Volkswagen. the world forgot that Skoda was once a maker of prestige vehicles with a reputation for advanced design and engineering. This handsome streamlined product of cold war Czechoslovakia resembles a scaled down Hudson and I can picture it in its original pale blue and looking like a large tin toy. For: You are not likely to see another one outside Prague and the vendor has $0 as the start price. Against: Let's hope it is all there.
1956 Hudson Rambler I featured one of these in an earlier list so I guess there is more than one in New Zealand. The styling suggests that desperate measures were needed to attract the attention of American compact buyers whose tastes were becoming a little jaded by 1956. The black and white colour scheme works well with the roof wraparound but it looks too far gone for restoration. For: A mind altering four door saloon. Against: If you really want one, why not import a good one?
1965 Austin Mini The vendor describes it as a Mini Cooper (replica) but I think not. This is more in the tradition of the modified Minis produced in the 1960s by UK outfits like Wood and Pickett. The dash features every instrument that could possibly be fitted in a car and it has a proper fabric sunroof. I would be inclined to remove some of the more Baroque items but store then carefully because I am sure it is all desirable. For: Where is that Afghan coat? I feel like driving to Tangiers. Against: Shame it isn't a Cooper.
1968 Volvo 122S This South African import Volvo is a very desirable specification and would make an ideal Targa mount if that is what you were looking for. Otherwise it is a tough and comfortable sporting saloon with great mid-1950s Chrysler looks. White with red is always a strong combination and the well formed front seats look in good shape. Sensibly priced at 8K. For: Excellent pedigree but ready for the daily commute if you want to. Against: I have gone off the Swedes since Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
1983 Zimmer Golden Spirit I include this at the wish of the well known aesthete who sent me a Public Image Ltd. video and asked what the wonderful vehicle was that John Lydon was riding in. After much careful detective work I can now tell you it was one of these. This restrained and tasteful object of desire was made by the same Zimmer company that makes walking frames. Starting bid 10K. Go on, I dare you. For: They will surely see you coming in this. Against: What, too suave for you?
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