Posted by Clint Dixon on Monday, June 18, 2007 at 13:09:19 :
In Reply to: Universal Scale.... posted by Marty on Sunday, June 17, 2007 at 19:01:19 :
I feel that this scale is biased towards restored vehicles. #1 and #2 reflect levels of restoration. #3 mentions "may have been partially restored". #4 and #5 reflect vehicles that are restorable or need restoration.
Not all vintage vehicle enthusiasts are interested in "restoring" their vehicles. There are a substantial number who collect only nice original vehicles. They tend to gravitate to vehicles that would loose value by being restored. Their scale may go something like this:
1. Mint original condition, having very low mileage, likely discovered in climate controlled storage for most of its live. No cosmetic issues, appears new or restored to the untrained eye. Never driven and only trailered to car shows. If a #1 car was driven 50 miles it would likely suffer mechanical failure and would require repairs that would no longer qualify it to be a #1 condition.
2. Very nice original condition having very low mileage and original paint. Some parts have been replaced over the years as routine maintenance. Rarely driven, appears nearly new. Most people can’t distinguish between #1 and #2 condition.
3. Nice survivor with no rust issues. Some loss or degrading of finish and minor scratching and/or denting to sheet metal may be present. Maintained in good in driving condition, but only used during good weather.
4. User condition. Vehicle remains basically original in appearance. Paint may be weathered. May have very minor rust issues. Some trim pieces or other minor items may be missing. Driven regularly, but well maintained. Appears as it may have when it was 5 years old and being used every day.
5. Nostalgia condition. Vehicle is nicer than most of its age. May be a daily driver and may have moderate rust and other cosmetic issues. Vehicle probably is in worse condition than it was 5 years ago and will probably deteriorate with age.
Then there are the enthusiasts who want to modify, customize, or just use their vehicles at some other level. They may also have their own scale.
In all fairness, you mentioned in your last paragraph that there may be others, but does the "universal scale" actually benefit the most people?
Junior
Follow Ups: