Antique Cars Take My Breath Away

Driving one Sunday morning, I came over a hill and repeated the same reaction I have with seeing any antique vehicle. An instant peace falls over me, regardless of my stress or distractions. This is immediately accompanied by a deep inhale and exhale and a sigh of contentment that's made me wonder if I belong in another time.

Sure, some modern cars are rather amazing in design. In this picture, my driving a vehicle with a push button starter and a touch screen navigation is something not common place a decade ago. I doubt such would've even been science fiction when the pictured 1939 Plymouth was in production.

And maybe that alone is the allure. All many of us have to explore these simpler, more elegant times are photos and movies. Some of us have access to family or friends still living. But to encounter a vehicle from yesteryears is rather special. It's also a perspective case with the car in this picture: this vehicle was produced before World War II. America wouldn't know of this war until December 7, 1941, when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor.

There's also something to say for craftsmanship that can last 77 years. A contented sigh of thanks to each person who love these beauties enough to keep them on the roads.