What do you value more????
Pro
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 545
Likes: 2
From: Peoplez Republik (communist portland) Orygun
okay then...
What I really like about these sharky-looking C3's is this:
Neighborhood kids (primarily ages 12 to 4) have never really seen a car like a C3 corvette before. When I leave my Vette outside on the driveway, kids on riding their bikes past can be heard saying: "Ohhh man, that is AWESOME! What is it!?!?!"
Or, while driving down the freeway, a father with small kids in the back will slow down and all the little kids are ooo'ing and ahhhhing and pointing at my car while the dad gives me the
Those are the priceless Vette moments for me. Kids these days have never been around when America made cars with true style, flair & verve like the C3 Vette. A Taurus, Malibu or Camry has none.
So, yeah... I honestly could care less when a "so-called" corvette purist tells me "it looks pretty good but the 1980 didn't have a 5 speed in it from the factory, ya'know." Whatever dude.
What I really like about these sharky-looking C3's is this:
Neighborhood kids (primarily ages 12 to 4) have never really seen a car like a C3 corvette before. When I leave my Vette outside on the driveway, kids on riding their bikes past can be heard saying: "Ohhh man, that is AWESOME! What is it!?!?!"
Or, while driving down the freeway, a father with small kids in the back will slow down and all the little kids are ooo'ing and ahhhhing and pointing at my car while the dad gives me the
Those are the priceless Vette moments for me. Kids these days have never been around when America made cars with true style, flair & verve like the C3 Vette. A Taurus, Malibu or Camry has none.
So, yeah... I honestly could care less when a "so-called" corvette purist tells me "it looks pretty good but the 1980 didn't have a 5 speed in it from the factory, ya'know." Whatever dude.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 14,345
Likes: 4
From: Hartselle AL
St. Jude Donor '09
Of course, a "thumbs up" from a kid in a passing car probably trumps all others!
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,173
Likes: 1
From: Liberty Missouri
Ok if we are talking about this guy I am with you all the way.
My car is so far from stock I’m not sure it came stock from the factory. Some purists feel the need to tell me how I have disfigured a national icon and some can still appreciate the work. The people who think I have done something wrong need to buy the car for several times what it’s worth and put it back how they feel it should be.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 1,165
Likes: 24
From: Boston MA
Why in the world would I do that? Do I go to HPDE events to show off to the guy in the 200K Ferrari?
Do I go exit ramp bashing at 4am to show off to the moths?
I derive pleasure in driving it has nothing to do with people seeing my drive.
I have an orchid room in my house...you know who sees those? Me.
If a person derives pleasure from impressing others that person has some self esteem issues.
You think that 13bats does those hideous custom Corvettes to impress other people? No offense intended 13...but parents of ugly babies are convinced their kid is cute.
Hobbies are meant to give you pleasure in creating something, not in showing it off.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,173
Likes: 1
From: Liberty Missouri
Why in the world would I do that? Do I go to HPDE events to show off to the guy in the 200K Ferrari?
Do I go exit ramp bashing at 4am to show off to the moths?
I derive pleasure in driving it has nothing to do with people seeing my drive.
I have an orchid room in my house...you know who sees those? Me.
If a person derives pleasure from impressing others that person has some self esteem issues.
You think that 13bats does those hideous custom Corvettes to impress other people? No offense intended 13...but parents of ugly babies are convinced their kid is cute.
Hobbies are meant to give you pleasure in creating something, not in showing it off.
Do I go exit ramp bashing at 4am to show off to the moths?
I derive pleasure in driving it has nothing to do with people seeing my drive.
I have an orchid room in my house...you know who sees those? Me.
If a person derives pleasure from impressing others that person has some self esteem issues.
You think that 13bats does those hideous custom Corvettes to impress other people? No offense intended 13...but parents of ugly babies are convinced their kid is cute.
Hobbies are meant to give you pleasure in creating something, not in showing it off.
I stand corrected, sorry if I offended you
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 14,919
Likes: 3,333
From: NYC NY
There is one in every crowd........now there's 2. 
I don't really look for praise because most of the time people will only praise what they like and that's based on their personal taste. I would rather someone acknowledge the execusion (and only a very few will). It comes down to a nice car is a nice car even if it's not something you can see yourself behind the wheel in.
Limping across the line
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 5,299
Likes: 109
From: Peoria Az
It's funny, I never gave that a lot of thought although I appreciate it. The other day I was in a little town nearby called Murphys- pretty cool place by the way. The wife and I were sitting on a bench on the sidewalk next to where the Vette was parked eating our lunch when a family approached from our left. A boy about 9-10 years old suddenly stopped talking when he saw my car and started saying "Oh my God." repeatedly as he walked around the car. The only other thing he said was the word "Corvette" as his eyes bugged. His mother said "Study hard and get good grades and maybe someday..." The whole thing put a big smile on my face- almost as big as the one on the kid's face. It was heartwarming to see his enthusiasm and it reminded me of the first Vette (about a 1962) I ever took notice of as it went by our little country house when I was about this kids age.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 4,709
Likes: 299
From: Concord VA, U.S.A.
St. Jude Donor '05 thru '26
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Racer
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 319
Likes: 0
From: Topeka Kansas
St. Jude Donor '09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14,’18
The very first time I drove my '72, before I bought it, a kid in a truck gave me a thumbs up. I didn't buy my Vette because of the thumbs up. I don't do things or not do things to my car to please others. I enjoy the way it makes me feel to look at, to drive, and to work on my '72. I also enjoy the occasional thumbs up or "Cool Car". It's like a friendly wave. I try to return that "wave" when I see another cool car be it a Vette, a street rod, a hemi, or a Mustang.
Mike
Mike
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 6,362
Likes: 30
From: Oak Harbor WA
I understand the intent behind the OP's thread and I get why some responses aren't exactly in keeping with the intent.
Yes it is nice to share comments from those which we seek approval from. I don't do mods to get approval from my wife. She says so what, what's the difference...she is the masses. But another car guy will notice when you have put extra effort into your car....because we know we then share that affinity for vehicles.
You can't love cars because you are seeking approval from the masses, you love cars because you love cars. Finding others who love cars is sometimes part of the joy of ownership.
Yes it is nice to share comments from those which we seek approval from. I don't do mods to get approval from my wife. She says so what, what's the difference...she is the masses. But another car guy will notice when you have put extra effort into your car....because we know we then share that affinity for vehicles.
You can't love cars because you are seeking approval from the masses, you love cars because you love cars. Finding others who love cars is sometimes part of the joy of ownership.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,173
Likes: 1
From: Liberty Missouri
Pro
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 545
Likes: 2
From: Peoplez Republik (communist portland) Orygun
I definitely see your point on that.
It's funny, I was just returning home and at the 4 way stop intersection saw an early Ferrari, we both waved at eachother. I'm sure he loves the hell out of his car and I the same with mine. Simply acknowledging another cool car.
Pretty cool.
oh.... last week while filling up at the gas station, there was a fellow in his 50's who was filling up his MGB next to me (I'm in my 30's). We were both blabbin about eachothers car. It went like this "Oh... you got those Stans Headers... ohhh, oooohh love the sound of American V8's, nuthin' like it in the world." And I was replying "Oh, Lucas Prince of Darkness... My old Enfield motorcycle...."
You know the deal. I guess in that case it's just the kinship of another auto enthusiast. Also, since I was never a die-hard "Ford vs Chevy" guy, I like all types of cars as long as they are unique, interesting, technologically/engineered advanced, fast etc... basically, every C3 to me
It's funny, I was just returning home and at the 4 way stop intersection saw an early Ferrari, we both waved at eachother. I'm sure he loves the hell out of his car and I the same with mine. Simply acknowledging another cool car.
Pretty cool.
oh.... last week while filling up at the gas station, there was a fellow in his 50's who was filling up his MGB next to me (I'm in my 30's). We were both blabbin about eachothers car. It went like this "Oh... you got those Stans Headers... ohhh, oooohh love the sound of American V8's, nuthin' like it in the world." And I was replying "Oh, Lucas Prince of Darkness... My old Enfield motorcycle...."
You know the deal. I guess in that case it's just the kinship of another auto enthusiast. Also, since I was never a die-hard "Ford vs Chevy" guy, I like all types of cars as long as they are unique, interesting, technologically/engineered advanced, fast etc... basically, every C3 to me
Last edited by Vette80regon; Jun 20, 2009 at 12:54 AM.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,810
Likes: 0
From: NJ
Some of the questions that have been asked recently here on the forum got me thinking. What do you value more: Praise from a few car guys in the know or praise from the masses. For me personally it’s the guys in the know. I have polished small bits and pieces on my car that 99% of people will never notice, but when the 1 out of 100 notices what I have done, I know he is a true car guy. For me that one guy is worth a thousand normal lookers. I’m just curious if I am one of the few.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,079
Likes: 314
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
I guess if you actually did the work yourself, then a well-deserved compliment from anybody is okay...but not necessary. I love talking to people about the car, whether they are car guys or not.
I used to belong to the Harley Owners Group until it became infested with RUB's (Rich Urban Bikers) that constantly try to outdo each other. As each new model is introduced, somebody has to have it, then pay the Service Dept to modify it in every way imaginable. Saturday mornings at the Harley store became very boring.
Six years ago I was at the Mecum Auction in Kissimmee, during the NCRS Regional Meet. Spoke to a guy from the midwest who was selling his beautiful 1970 LT1, which he had worked on himself. Told me it was time for it to go, that none of us really "own" these old vettes, but are merely "caretakers." Kinda nice to know that even when we are gone, something that we touched will more than likely remain long after.
I used to belong to the Harley Owners Group until it became infested with RUB's (Rich Urban Bikers) that constantly try to outdo each other. As each new model is introduced, somebody has to have it, then pay the Service Dept to modify it in every way imaginable. Saturday mornings at the Harley store became very boring.
Six years ago I was at the Mecum Auction in Kissimmee, during the NCRS Regional Meet. Spoke to a guy from the midwest who was selling his beautiful 1970 LT1, which he had worked on himself. Told me it was time for it to go, that none of us really "own" these old vettes, but are merely "caretakers." Kinda nice to know that even when we are gone, something that we touched will more than likely remain long after.
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,336
Likes: 169
From: Westampton New Jersey
I love my car, I do what I want to it, regardless of who thinks what, I would have done the same things to it if I had bought it new off the showroom floor. I drive it cause I love it and love cars.
That being said, it doesnt suck to have a kid come runnin over with a big grin on his face sayin cool car, or for that matter anyone really. Its a hobby, hobbies are meant to be shared too. Aknowledgement in your hobby is a nice thing...dont ya think?
That being said, it doesnt suck to have a kid come runnin over with a big grin on his face sayin cool car, or for that matter anyone really. Its a hobby, hobbies are meant to be shared too. Aknowledgement in your hobby is a nice thing...dont ya think?
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 1,165
Likes: 24
From: Boston MA
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,116
From: Crossville TN
Personally, I don't need external praises for my work...my satisfaction comes from knowing that I did the best I could do. I do enjoy it when some knowledgeable folks appreciate the level of effort that was required and when some young folks/newbies get genuinely excited by what they are seeing.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 3,438
Likes: 30
From: Fairfax Virginia
All my life I've enjoyed cars -- in particular I enjoy Corvettes. I like to talk to other cars and I like to give them compliments when I see something I like. Over the years I've gone to a lot of shows and a lot of cruises because that is where a lot of people who also share my hobby go and it is a great opportunity to interact with them. When I do receive compliments/praise I appreciate that the other person was kind enough to share their appreciation.
Some people are so critical and picky they see flaws with everything. Are the flaws there - yes. How far are you going to go to try to achieve perfection? If you achieve it will it last? What means more to me is that an average guy on the street who sees my car at a stoplight, in a gas station or when I'm getting in or out in a parking lot, takes the simple effort and kindness to compliment my car. I accept the praise, thankfully from the masses when they are kind enough to give it.
To the OP, I understand and appreciate your original point despite the detour taken by some in this thread.
Some people are so critical and picky they see flaws with everything. Are the flaws there - yes. How far are you going to go to try to achieve perfection? If you achieve it will it last? What means more to me is that an average guy on the street who sees my car at a stoplight, in a gas station or when I'm getting in or out in a parking lot, takes the simple effort and kindness to compliment my car. I accept the praise, thankfully from the masses when they are kind enough to give it.
To the OP, I understand and appreciate your original point despite the detour taken by some in this thread.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,187
Likes: 7
From: Chetwynd B.C.
All my life I've enjoyed cars -- in particular I enjoy Corvettes. I like to talk to other cars and I like to give them compliments when I see something I like. Over the years I've gone to a lot of shows and a lot of cruises because that is where a lot of people who also share my hobby go and it is a great opportunity to interact with them. When I do receive compliments/praise I appreciate that the other person was kind enough to share their appreciation.
Some people are so critical and picky they see flaws with everything. Are the flaws there - yes. How far are you going to go to try to achieve perfection? If you achieve it will it last? What means more to me is that an average guy on the street who sees my car at a stoplight, in a gas station or when I'm getting in or out in a parking lot, takes the simple effort and kindness to compliment my car. I accept the praise, thankfully from the masses when they are kind enough to give it.
To the OP, I understand and appreciate your original point despite the detour taken by some in this thread.
Some people are so critical and picky they see flaws with everything. Are the flaws there - yes. How far are you going to go to try to achieve perfection? If you achieve it will it last? What means more to me is that an average guy on the street who sees my car at a stoplight, in a gas station or when I'm getting in or out in a parking lot, takes the simple effort and kindness to compliment my car. I accept the praise, thankfully from the masses when they are kind enough to give it.
To the OP, I understand and appreciate your original point despite the detour taken by some in this thread.
Very well said. Couldn't have said it better myself. shmoky