A few of my favorite things

Cars, girls' names, cocktails and songs

I started this list for the benefit of Mr Nick Laird, doyen of Dunedin design pedagogy and our admired and esteemed leader through many battles with dim university administration and far from ideal HODs. Go well, old friend, hopefully in one of these...

1952 Bentley R Type. The last one took ages to sell (if it ever did) so we must assume the local market for Standard Steel Bentleys is slow. Even so there is much to be admired in these cars that were designed for the serious owner/driver with the best of materials and technology available in post-war Blighty. You would certainly cut a dash in one today without the parvenu associations with the latest Continentals (have you watched the vids of Paris Hilton's hit and run?): For: Just the thing for taking someone to the Hunt Club Ball. Against: A bit pompous.

1958 Chevrolet Impala Coupe. Not much seen in New Zealand and good value compared to overpriced '57s, the later wide bodied Chevrolets exude a tasty menace that I find quite attractive. The Impala Coupe is particularly handsome with the squashed roof and flattened fins adding to the general effect of Las Vegas low morals. For: Not ubiquitous. Against: Not much of an investment either.

1962 Porsche 356 B. These are heading to the wrong side of 100K now so this 356 is attracting strong bids. The B models retained the purity of the early car's slipper form with smaller taillights and less glass than the later C's. Everything is available in remanufactured form for these older Porsches so the key to high values is originality. For: Your banker will probably approve. Against: Check the quality of the work.

1967 Buick Riviera GS. Unusual for being in New Zealand from new and in right hand drive form, this '60s Riviera overcomes many of the impediments associated with dodgy US imports which are no history and shoddy repairs. It all looks straight and well cared for so the price is surprisingly reasonable. Ask for the original wheels back on it and pay even less. For: Superlative looks and ideal for NZ conditions. Against: Why is it not being used?

1974 Rover P6 3500. I have often opined that a P6 Rover would make a great base for a high performing saloon with the right modifications. Here is an example retro-fitted with a five speed manual  gear box and ready to go. The dark green paint looks great and I would even keep the wheels. For: A very capable car. Against: Nothing much at that price.