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Re: Racing a Special

To: Clark Smith <clarksmith@earthlink.net>
Subject: Re: Racing a Special
From: "John A. Rollins" <nobozos@ix.netcom.com>
Date: Thu, 27 Feb 1997 05:19:06 -0800
Clark Smith wrote:
> 
> Hi All,
> 
> ..snip..
> 
> Now for the questions:
> 
> This car is right hand drive.  How difficult is that to adapt to?  Assuming
> I drive a left hand drive car daily, is there any hope that I ever will be
> any good at racing this car?

This depends on the driver and their adaptability... I would imagine it
would take some getting used to but not be unsurmountable...

> 
> Can 1300ccs, even in an 800 pound chassis, ever give a thrill?
> 

Whoa, baby!  The light weight should yeild some incredible cornering
speeds and, depending on tune, a 1300cc engine should produce plenty of
power to propel you down the straights quickly enough.

> The car's designer has a respected history (he built 12 or so cars from
> scratch and heavily modified probably another 12 production cars) here in
> the West.  I had heard of the driver (partially because of the research I
> did on my film) but don't think he ever amounted to much. (The people I've
> spoken to about him didn't like the guy.)  And, the window of opportunity
> for this car to be successful was pretty much squandered.  Can anyone
> compare a  car with a similar history that might lead me to a value when
> completed?  Is this a once in a lifetime opportunity?  No matter what I pay
> for this wreck, can it ever make financial sense?  Or, should I be so
> emotionally wrapped up in the prospect of owning it that money shouldn't be
> a consideration?
> 
I have never been able to make a killing on a race car - regardless of
the purchase price.  This may be due to my always wanting to do the
repair/restoration the "right" way, without sacrificing safety or
quality.  As a general rule, don't plan to make a profit... but, then, I
have no knowledge of the designer or vehicle in question.

> As far as Mille Miglia eligibility, I'd say slim to none- would you agree?
> I should be welcome most anywhere in this country though, right?
> 
> Usually when I struggle with a descision like this, it means that it's not
> a good fit.  If I get a bunch of responses from you guys, it may well
> affect what I do.
> 
I think you struck the issue on the head with your comment about wanting
to dirve this kind/particular car.  If there is some kind of bond there,
go for it; if you have reservations and it is a 5-year project, your
enthusiasm may not last...  Either way, Good Luck!

> Thank you very much for your thoughts,
> 
> Clark
> 

Just my humble opinion... Have Fun and thanks again for the film!!!

*8o)

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