Maybe its just where I live or maybe it's just my car maybe it's not loud enough but when I was young and I saw a muscle car go by when I was walking down the sidewalk I would have to stop and watch it drive by. It wasn't just me but almost all guys my age and some chicks. That's not to say middle age guys weren't admiring these sweet rides cuz they were. My point here is today's younger generation, our future. This has been a collective observation for me over the last couple of summers.
I'll cruise down the street and there are people on the sidewalk walking or just standing there and see my car as just traffic. Come on you know what I mean surely you look out the corner of your eye to see if someone noticed your immaculate Camaro with its gleaming chrome and fresh wax, it's rumbling pipes. What are these kids thinking are they so intent on their Ipods or maybe thinking about getting home to the X-box. Come on we stick out like a sore thumb amongst all those minivans and SUVs.
It's no big deal, I don't need attention but I just think it's sad what our youth thinks is cool or not cool.
So do you guys see this too ?

times change, tastes change.

I know what you mean. The only thumbs up I get nowadays are from folks over 40. The younger generation doesn't get it but don't be fooled, it wouldn't stop them from stealing your car in a heartbeat for a joy ride.

My two teenage boys love hot rods and muscle cars because they were raised with them. The oldest wants a 57 Bel Air and the youngest a 69 Camaro coupe. Damn they have good taste. Their friends on the other hand prefer POS asian racers. One of their young friends told me I was crazy to be rebuilding a junky old car and I should have traded it in as clunker. I promptly asked him to leave before I really got pissed and said or did something I'd regret.

Luckily there are other parents from forums like this that raise children who appreciate quality American muscle to keep the tradition alive.

I notice amoungst my own generation too. Im 22 years old and the electronics and other distractions seem to be what catches the eye of the younger crowd. I on the other hand when i see a classic i almost walk in front of it and block them just to start a conversation.

I wouldn't worry to much about it. They know what you have but like mentioned above times change and people change. Some days i get the younger gens of people hanging out there windows trying to take pictures with there cell phones of my car driving the road and other days i get the older gens that ask me if its for sale. Either way its cool some days are good and the others don't even matter because im to in to my cruising with the car and giving it my own attention.

put some flames on that white Camaro and see how much they stare!

32" rims or no 2nd looks

I'm not saying my car is the best looking car on the street but almost EVERYONE stares at it. From kids to older people. I will get thumbs up and I see people pointing at me everytime I go to town.

When people stop looking at my car going down the street then that will be the time to install the open header cut outs :hurray::hurray::hurray:.

All they're gonna see is tail lights anyway :D

. . . Their friends on the other hand prefer POS asian racers. One of their young friends told me I was crazy to be rebuilding a junky old car and I should have traded it in as clunker.



:angry: punks

I experience the same thing. Some of the kids around here are falling over themselves trying to get a quick picture of my car, while other days I will pass a group of kids and they seem like they could care less. All I know is that my 3 year old little girl already apprciates American Muscle Cars and she loves Daddy's "blue car". I will also do my best to instill in her a sense of value of the American tradition and quality workmanship.

put some flames on that white Camaro and see how much they stare!

X2.....Definetly love flames especially "ghost flames"

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff229/1969ProStreetCamaro/2-8-200810742PM.jpg


All they're gonna see is tail lights anyway :D

:yes:...........:D

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff229/1969ProStreetCamaro/MVC-002F-2.jpg

David F.

Unfortunately you need big wheels, a rediculous wing higher than the roof & a 6" exhaust tip..... the same as the cars I typically laugh at.

There are a lot fewer true car guys out there than in the past. I see many interested in the image (to make themselves look better), than the actual mechanics of a vehicle. Personally I can appreciate any car that is built nicely, or with serious performance potential.... even if I do not like the style of the vehicle.

Don't worry, there still a lot of guys that appreciate a nice Camaro. My friends almost drive off the road when they see them. I am starting to even get a lot of looks in my 3rd gen Formula, now that it is getting old & not so common anymore.

Besides owning a Camaro should be to impress yourself first, who cares if anyone else likes it.

X2.....Definetly love flames especially "ghost flames"

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff229/1969ProStreetCamaro/2-8-200810742PM.jpg




:yes:...........:D

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff229/1969ProStreetCamaro/MVC-002F-2.jpg

David F. Man David if i saw or heired that thing coming down the road, id probably piss my pants and drop them at the same time :thumbsup:.

At least half of the comments I get are from kids under 20. They aren't afraid to ask questions and sound stupid. Encourage them and make sure they don't feel like they are incompetent morons.

I agree Skip.
Davids 69 looks like it takes no prisoners.Very intimidating and hp up the wazoo to boot.One fine Pro Street 69 imo.:thumbsup:

http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff229/1969ProStreetCamaro/MVC-002F-2.jpg



Good Lord David, that is bad a$$
Makes those ricers look like little girly cars.

Man David if i saw or heired that thing coming down the road, id probably piss my pants and drop them at the same time :thumbsup:.

:thumbsup:l:).

I agree Skip.
Davids 69 looks like it takes no prisoners.Very intimidating and hp up the wazoo to boot.One fine Pro Street 69 imo.:thumbsup:

Thanks George...your '68 isn't short on power either with that big 'ol roots style aluminum lung protruding through it's hood:thumbsup:.

Good Lord David, that is bad a$$
Makes those ricers look like little girly cars.

Thanks Jerry......those "little girly cars" with the "fart can" mufflers really hate it when I pull up beside 'em at red lights...........my Super 40 FlowMaster's seem to drown out the likes of Ludacris,Ice T & 50 cent.:hurray::cool:.

David F.

Sorry, people who love "ricers" are car people too, and we need to embrace them and make sure we stand next to them when defending our hobby. I simply don't understand the need to put down cars, groups of car enthusiasts, or anyone else involved in automotive hobbies that seems to be a theme on this board lately.

Sorry, people who love "ricers" are car people too......

Where did I say that "people who love ricers" aren't "car people"?????? I never said I hated them or their cars:noway:.

David F.

Sorry, people who love "ricers" are car people too, and we need to embrace them and make sure we stand next to them when defending our hobby. I simply don't understand the need to put down cars, groups of car enthusiasts, or anyone else involved in automotive hobbies that seems to be a theme on this board lately.

Ok fine , no need to perpetuate this.

[QUOTE=Mkelcy;1283574]Sorry, people who love "ricers" are car people too, and we need to embrace them

Feel free to give them all a big hug from me.:D

If I'm in a bad mood, I can go for a dirve and soak up a little "street love". Gets me out of my funk. I had a little kid once point at my car and yell at his mom, "That's the fastest car in the world"! When I was test driving my car, me and the guy pulled into a gas station. I went in to get a soda, when I came out there was a group of guys standing around gawking at the car. I thought the guy had staged the whole thing!

Sorry, people who love "ricers" are car people too, and we need to embrace them

Feel free to give them all a big hug from me.:D

I absolutely will, because after they're done going for the "ricers" for smog and other violations, the only thing left will be 60's era muscle cars. We have much more in common with "ricers" than we do with the Sierra Club, and the sooner we recognize that, the longer we'll be able to enjoy our hobby.

As for any pro-street car, you may get to the corner first, but then what do you do? Meet me (and the ricers) at the end of a 60 mile mountain run and we can compare notes. I respect 1/4 mile guys, I simply ask that you respect others who participate in our hobby as they can, given their skill and budgets.

It pains me to read this because it is sadly true...I stick out like a sore thumb. It seems like ever since I've been going to MVCTC I'm seeing slightly more Classics out. The cool cars that passed the bus AND I'M THE ONLY ONE WHO SAW THEM!!!!! Today I was a beautiful '59 Ford in pink and white. I can go on about the cars I've seen this week. Everyone else was brainwashed in all the technology junk. I DO NOT OWN OR KNOW HARDLY ANYTHING ABOUT:

- ipods, mp3, psp, etc.

- a myspace, facebook, or other social networking sites like these.

- video games newer then Playstation 2

Am I old school or what? Heck, I must tell you what I've seen that others have missed:

- black '57 Chevy Bel-Air 2 door
- yellow 63-67 Chevy Corvette convertible
- teal and white '56 Buick
- yellow early 70's Ford Thunderbird (could have been a Lincoln Continental or Mercury Montego, but I'm sure it was a T-Bird)
- black '66/'67 Cadilliac Convertible (I didn't have my glasses on, it was a few cars up, I thought it was a GTO at first, then I recognized the taillights)
- '77-ish Pontiac
- '68 Camaro
- '77 Pontiac Firebird
- '56/'57 Ford Thunderbird (under a tarp and abondened)

I'm sure I'll remember more. I wish people my age would do something else other than pay with their electronic junk! Look outside the window once in awhile at least.

Yesterday while waiting for a break to get out onto the main HWY I was thinking about all the gas I was burning just idling there and didn't notice this young woman on the sidewalk across the street until she started hollering a me about my Camaro. She was to say the least a beautiful blond and had this big grin while she shouted and jumped up and down. I looked to the other side to see some old folks about my age whom gave me a very cold stare. I really didn't know how to handle the situation and was relieved when I got a break in the traffic and got out of there - but once on my way, I did have a good chuckle - LOL

Jerry you are looking too hard for a pat on the back or something! Do your thing and don't worry about who's looking or if anyone is looking... The wife and I were out tonight with the top down, sitting at a light a gal in her late 20's driving a couple year old Suburban rolled down her passenger window to make conversation with me about the car. 35 minutes later in another city an 8-10 year old walking with a couple older kids yells out "Daymnnn" and almost walks out into the street checking out the car... I'm not looking for it, it just happens! Relax and don't worry about if there will be someone to carry on the hobby, there will be!

.....We have much more in common with "ricers" than we do with the Sierra Club, and the sooner we recognize that, the longer we'll be able to enjoy our hobby.

As for any pro-street car, you may get to the corner first, but then what do you do? Meet me (and the ricers) at the end of a 60 mile mountain run and we can compare notes. I respect 1/4 mile guys, I simply ask that you respect others who participate in our hobby as they can, given their skill and budgets.

Umm....that's like trying to compare apples to oranges!!!!!Each car is built differently for it's intended purpose:yes:. Even you know that!!!! As for disrespecting the "ricer crowd".....or any other "group" .....how have I done that ????????:confused: How this thread went from being "Snubbed on the Street" to "Please don't offend the "ricers"" just amazes and confuses me.

David F.

I don't really want any attention when I'm driving my cars, but it's always there. It's a little more prevalent with my hugger/white Z than it is my silver GTO. It comes with the territory, and I understand that and I'm okay with it.

I always tell them that I appreciate their compliments, which I do. Some want to go into a diatribe about every/any classic car they've ever owned. Gets a little tiresome, but then again, that's part of it. And I have several friends that are into the tuner/ricer scene, and they have appreciation for the classic muscle. Mention date codes and casting numbers and they have no idea of course, but they dig the cars.

I just enjoy driving my cars and nothing more. If someone on a sidewalk, at the gas station, etc. doesn't notice what I'm driving, I am more than okay with it. I don't need outside approval :thumbsup:

Their friends on the other hand prefer POS asian racers. One of their young friends told me I was crazy to be rebuilding a junky old car and I should have traded it in as clunker. I promptly asked him to leave before I really got pissed and said or did something I'd regret.

Luckily there are other parents from forums like this that raise children who appreciate quality American muscle to keep the tradition alive.

I heard this once at a car show. Young girls saying that the old cars were so outdated, they didn't have any screens, big wheels or systems. They were standing next to me. I told them that the people with the old car like to put money into they like or remeber from there year of being young like you and we just don't understand putting $4,000.00 wheels on a $2,000.00 crown vic with a cheesy paint job that only looks good from 30 feet away. They walked away commenting on rude I was and that I did not a thing about cars. Well I thier world I guess I don't........thank goodness!!!

I heard this once at a car show. Young girls saying that the old cars were so outdated, they didn't have any screens, big wheels or systems. They were standing next to me. I told them that the people with the old car like to put money into they like or remeber from there year of being young like you and we just don't understand putting $4,000.00 wheels on a $2,000.00 crown vic with a cheesy paint job that only looks good from 30 feet away. They walked away commenting on rude I was and that I did not a thing about cars. Well I thier world I guess I don't........thank goodness!!!

One reasion I have NO respect for ricers and never will!

Jerry you are looking too hard for a pat on the back or something! Do your thing and don't worry about who's looking or if anyone is looking...

I was hoping my point wouldn't come across like that.
I get plenty of attention at cruise ins and around my car guy buddies, it is just an observation I made about guys that are the same age I was when I was at the height of my muscle car madness pretty much 16 thru 20. ( I still am obsessed but can contain myself now ;) ) Now they just don't have it and maybe those interest are gone in most young guys. Maybe just where I live anyway. No it's not about me and my car. I built that car for me not anyone elses approval on the street.
It's good to read all the observations I'm seeing in this thread , thanks.

Jerry - not everyone is a carguy and that was true back in the day when you were 20. Back when you or I were 20 though there weren't as many makes and models produced. Think back to 1976 and look back to the early 1900's, that's 70 years worth of different cars in the pool. Today looking back that far there would be over 100 years worth in the same pool. Even back in the 70's most folks had an eye out for just a small portion of what was on the road based on their age and that is the same today. It's a rare individual that gets as worked up over a model-t or a 1940's Lincoln as they do say over a 1st gen Camaro. There are still folks out there into model-t's and 40's Lincolns though just not as many. Same with muscle and pony cars, there will always be folks interested in them but as they get older they will take a back seat to the general population...

I hope that makes sense!

Jerry - not everyone is a carguy and that was true back in the day when you were 20. Back when you or I were 20 though there weren't as many makes and models produced. Think back to 1976 and look back to the early 1900's, that's 70 years worth of different cars in the pool. Today looking back that far there would be over 100 years worth in the same pool. Even back in the 70's most folks had an eye out for just a small portion of what was on the road based on their age and that is the same today. It's a rare individual that gets as worked up over a model-t or a 1940's Lincoln as they do say over a 1st gen Camaro. There are still folks out there into model-t's and 40's Lincolns though just not as many. Same with muscle and pony cars, there will always be folks interested in them but as they get older they will take a back seat to the general population...

I hope that makes sense!

That I can kind of understand, but kind of don't understand. I think what your saying is...

As time passes, the people that were really into the hobby have passed away or have gotten too old to get out and enjoy them like they used to. In some cases, some people may have gotten bored with the hobby (hard to believe that, but it's possible I suppose) and have become like the general population and not as interested in Classic Cars because they have seen them for 40 or 50 years, maybe longer than that. Heck, some could remember when these Classics were new.

That I can kind of understand, but kind of don't understand. I think what your saying is...

As time passes, the people that were really into the hobby have passed away or have gotten too old to get out and enjoy them like they used to. In some cases, some people may have gotten bored with the hobby (hard to believe that, but it's possible I suppose) and have become like the general population and not as interested in Classic Cars because they have seen them for 40 or 50 years, maybe longer than that. Heck, some could remember when these Classics were new.

No you really are twisting it I think... The culture or hobby changes and grows, (don't take this litterally, it an example in simplified form) say in the 1950's hotrodding was done with 1920s - 1940's cars. In the 1960's then hotrodding was being done with 1930's - 1950's cars. The pattern repetes and in the 1970's then guys hotrodded 1940's - 1960's cars. It goes on and on until modern times. (Ya, that means modern tuners and imports are part of the culture, you and others personally may not like that but who are each of us in the overall scheme of thing? We are only really kings under our own crowns, what we individually think is not representative of what others think or what is going on as a whole...)

Anyway I've laid out a pattern, now people grow up during what ever time period they do and see and relate to what is around when they are growing up. (Advertising is almost always geared at the young even though they are not the ones with the money for this same reason) So the core stays with the most current but the past doesn't just go away, the most current has a bit of the past in it too. Again this isn't a hard fast rule because fads (sorry not the best word to use, I don't mean to say rock and roll is a fad) come along like rock and roll in the 50's and poodle skirts and sock hops. Same again in the 60's with the muscle car era. This creats sub cultures that extend into the future as nostalgic times gone wild so to speak. Movies influence this too and can alter the current trend...

Feed off what I said about the most current times having a bit of the past in it's car culture. Jump back 40 years and call that the "current culture" and the same rule applies, the current contains a bit of the past... When you are talking cars the data that makes up the culture was a lot smaller 40 years ago than the data that makes up todays car culture. People then as now only have room for so much data and as we progress into the future to avoid data overload you won't find as many enamored with the same things you are.

A couple examples of this outside the car culture is the Renaissance, it's the past but not dead. There are still people that dress the part and gather and drink Ale and eat turkey legs and such at Faires all over the country. Same with Civil War enactments and if your part of the car culture is the "Mucsle Car Era" it lives on in the same way...

I agree with the point that the majority of the younger people have no interest in the classics to me i like it it only means these young people will not touch your car or even come close to it. all i know is if i see a 2009 volks wagon jetta and a 69 camaro at a light you better bet your money that i'll stare at that 69 until the light changes. i'm training my sons to love the classic muscle cars.

I don't really want any attention when I'm driving my cars, but it's always there. It's a little more prevalent with my hugger/white Z than it is my silver GTO. It comes with the territory, and I understand that and I'm okay with it.

I always tell them that I appreciate their compliments, which I do. Some want to go into a diatribe about every/any classic car they've ever owned. Gets a little tiresome, but then again, that's part of it. And I have several friends that are into the tuner/ricer scene, and they have appreciation for the classic muscle. Mention date codes and casting numbers and they have no idea of course, but they dig the cars.

I just enjoy driving my cars and nothing more. If someone on a sidewalk, at the gas station, etc. doesn't notice what I'm driving, I am more than okay with it. I don't need outside approval :thumbsup:

X2 !!!!

David F.

No you really are twisting it I think... The culture or hobby changes and grows, (don't take this litterally, it an example in simplified form) say in the 1950's hotrodding was done with 1920s - 1940's cars. In the 1960's then hotrodding was being done with 1930's - 1950's cars. The pattern repetes and in the 1970's then guys hotrodded 1940's - 1960's cars. It goes on and on until modern times. (Ya, that means modern tuners and imports are part of the culture, you and others personally may not like that but who are each of us in the overall scheme of thing? We are only really kings under our own crowns, what we individually think is not representative of what others think or what is going on as a whole...)

Anyway I've laid out a pattern, now people grow up during what ever time period they do and see and relate to what is around when they are growing up. (Advertising is almost always geared at the young even though they are not the ones with the money for this same reason) So the core stays with the most current but the past doesn't just go away, the most current has a bit of the past in it too. Again this isn't a hard fast rule because fads (sorry not the best word to use, I don't mean to say rock and roll is a fad) come along like rock and roll in the 50's and poodle skirts and sock hops. Same again in the 60's with the muscle car era. This creats sub cultures that extend into the future as nostalgic times gone wild so to speak. Movies influence this too and can alter the current trend...

Feed off what I said about the most current times having a bit of the past in it's car culture. Jump back 40 years and call that the "current culture" and the same rule applies, the current contains a bit of the past... When you are talking cars the data that makes up the culture was a lot smaller 40 years ago than the data that makes up todays car culture. People then as now only have room for so much data and as we progress into the future to avoid data overload you won't find as many enamored with the same things you are.

A couple examples of this outside the car culture is the Renaissance, it's the past but not dead. There are still people that dress the part and gather and drink Ale and eat turkey legs and such at Faires all over the country. Same with Civil War enactments and if your part of the car culture is the "Mucsle Car Era" it lives on in the same way...

Very well thought out commentary Dennis :thumbsup::thumbsup:.

David F.

a few years ago, i stopped at a Holiday gas station to get something to drink. i happened to park my big old 74 Monte next to a Prius. as i was getting out of my car, the owner of the Prius and his daughter came out of the store. this girl was maybe 5 years old, but as soon as she saw my car, she freaked out and started screaming to her dad about how that was the coolest car ever and that daddy should get one. Daddy was what i would consider a stereotypical Prius owner- 150 pounds, dorky glasses, etc- and he didn't look to impressed and even shot me a dirty look as he got her into her car seat. i watched as they pulled away, and this girl couldn't look away from my car until they got out of the lot.
hopefully, she kept on telling dad about that cool big car, and hopefully she keeps that attitude. and hopefully daddy had a good cry when he got home..

I know what you mean,I leave my car out and there is a lot of kids around here,not 1 even looks,times have changed.
Kenny

What are these kids thinking are they so intent on their Ipods or maybe thinking about getting home to the X-box. Come on we stick out like a sore thumb amongst all those minivans and SUVs.
It's no big deal, I don't need attention but I just think it's sad what our youth thinks is cool or not cool.
So do you guys see this too ?
Here's a little twist to the story FWIW. Three of the neighborhood kids here are always stopping by to see the progress on my nearly completed 69, two of which aren't even old enough to drive. They ask a lot of questions too (two boys and a girl). I always thought that was pretty cool. Anyway, I read this thread yesterday and just by coincidence, on my way home this afternoon I pulled up next to a pretty nice 67 Mustang. There was two guys and two girls inside (CA plates), couldn't have been 21 years old if that. As we pulled out I gave them the thumbs-up and blew the horn. There still out there, not all the young kids are ricers.

I'm in the category of "not wanting" attention. I sold my dream car hugger orange '69 w/white stripes Camaro because it stuck out too much. I LOVED the car though but didn't care for the attention. I don't really mind chatting about cars and such at the gas station or wherever and I'm always nice, but I'm also awkward/uncomfortable about it for whatever reason because I guess I don't want to be perceived as a show off (I know, I shouldn't care about that...). So anyhow, I'm always a bit conflicted...

Also, maybe at my age being 37, I'm still very interested in newer Japanese and Euro cars and technology. Not necessarily a stereotypical Honda Civic that's been decked out with a body kit and exhaust, but the 1990's era Supra Turbos, newer Z-cars, some BMW's, AMG Mercedes, and the like are all very cool to me. Of course I love what Detroit has been putting out lately with the latest Mustang, Camaro, and Challenger. My heart will always be strongest with older '60s muscle cars though.

I don't really want any attention when I'm driving my cars, but it's always there. It's a little more prevalent with my hugger/white Z than it is my silver GTO. It comes with the territory, and I understand that and I'm okay with it.

I always tell them that I appreciate their compliments, which I do. Some want to go into a diatribe about every/any classic car they've ever owned. Gets a little tiresome, but then again, that's part of it. And I have several friends that are into the tuner/ricer scene, and they have appreciation for the classic muscle. Mention date codes and casting numbers and they have no idea of course, but they dig the cars.

I just enjoy driving my cars and nothing more. If someone on a sidewalk, at the gas station, etc. doesn't notice what I'm driving, I am more than okay with it. I don't need outside approval :thumbsup:


I'm with you. I really don't like all the attention. I use to wait until late night to fill up my last Camaro just so I wouldn't have to deal with all the attention, questions, silly comments, etc.. I've had people follow me home, take pictures and video on the highway,etc.. It gets old. I always said I would want to be rich, but not famous.

It must be where you live. Count your blessings.

I just came home from our Cruise in. A mile or so down the road I went by a house and a 6 or 7 year old saw my car and was trying to get his Dad's attention. I just thought that was cool.

On the other hand , last week I had a guy ( about 30 ) ask me what year my Chevelle was. I really didn't want to insult him and just said '57.
He responded " N I C E ". In my little gear head world I thought everyone would recognize a TRI-5 from a Chevelle.
You can't make this stuff up.

Jerry...
I understand what you are saying. I get many looks, thumbs up and questions while driving or stopped at a light but there are those who are not into the old cars. They just do their thing and that's fine. Ricers tend to ignore or chuck "Duck Fart" revs at me as they go by. One guy stayed beside me chucking revs and spinning tires about 12 blocks. I turned shaking my head at him and told him to back off. He said F*** Y** and his car was faster. I pulled out my badge and told him I said " BACK OFF" understand. He drove off like a little old man. As Royce stated, sometimes the attention can become a pain and this one sure was. Just remember, you have a great looking car and that's all there is to it. Just ignore being ignored :yes:

Kev

Some local twenty somethings invited me to a little get together with the cars. They were going to meet up at a parking garage and then drive to a burger joint. I showed up a little late and as I came up the last level I saw about 60 people looking over the edge to see what the hell was coming. I park the car, get out and see 60 pairs of eyes staring at me. :o

consensus: 69's don't seem to be deprived of any attention!

consensus: 69's don't seem to be deprived of any attention!

You might be on to something . . . . . . . I still ain't gettin one :noway:
So be it teenage losers , watch for those 69s while I fly under the radar.

I dont know man. It seems like the younger kids dont seem to care unless your in a slow tegra. The girls though, I dont care who they think they are I always get them goin with the rumble through the ground ;)

I drove by an accident scene once, they had one lane closed so we were driving real slow. I heard a paramedic yell to a fireman "Hey, Check out the Camaro"!

I've had teenagers and 20 somethings drool all over mine. There is stilll a little hope for the next generation.

Jr68 I completely agree with your assesment. Most of the youth today are completely self absorbed and live in virtual worlds that they create because they don't know how to live in the real world or can't make it what they want it to be. Look at Twitter for instance. How in the world could anyone be so self absorbed that they feel the world is wanting to know their every move? Most of these kids need to put down the electronic toys, actually open the door, walk through it and experience real life for a change. If that sounds harsh, sorry, but they are completely disconnected from what is going on around them today because they are so tied to their text messaging and twitting. Not saying those aren't good tools, when used as a tool and not in excess as they often are. I understand it's necessary to be computer savy today, but it's also necessary to know how to function with hands on experiences too. Sadly a lot of these kids will be completely lost and require someone to hold their hand through everything that life brings to them because they'll have no skill sets other than text messaging.

Jr68 I completely agree with your assesment. Most of the youth today are completely self absorbed and live in virtual worlds that they create because they don't know how to live in the real world or can't make it what they want it to be. Look at Twitter for instance. How in the world could anyone be so self absorbed that they feel the world is wanting to know their every move? Most of these kids need to put down the electronic toys, actually open the door, walk through it and experience real life for a change. If that sounds harsh, sorry, but they are completely disconnected from what is going on around them today because they are so tied to their text messaging and twitting. Not saying those aren't good tools, when used as a tool and not in excess as they often are. I understand it's necessary to be computer savy today, but it's also necessary to know how to function with hands on experiences too. Sadly a lot of these kids will be completely lost and require someone to hold their hand through everything that life brings to them because they'll have no skill sets other than text messaging.

Amen!

The youth of today is living in the world that was put in front of them just like we did and out folks did... I don't agree with everything going on today but I don't have to participate in what I don't agree with... As for twitter and tweeting and all the electronic communications, well lets just say it's not just the youth of today that is so self absorbed, adults of all ages are getting in on it and it's not fair to single out just youth...

I've heard comment from hotrodders too, about "belly button" camaros. I do the occasional cruise in in my 1931 roadster, and very often i'll hear somebody feel the need to put down someone driving by in a camaro. I just don't get it. Camaros have been a favorite of mine since I got my first in '76, but I appreciate other nice vehicles from rock crawlers to ferraris..

The youth of today is living in the world that was put in front of them just like we did and out folks did... I don't agree with everything going on today but I don't have to participate in what I don't agree with... As for twitter and tweeting and all the electronic communications, well lets just say it's not just the youth of today that is so self absorbed, adults of all ages are getting in on it and it's not fair to single out just youth...

I agree with Dennis, kind of goes back to the generational thing Dennis was saying earlier....we bust on youth of today but I can also remember older people busting on me and my friends when I was 18, can also remember older people busting on my older sisters and brother when they were wearing hippie clothes and so on, this will never end, people will always think the youth of today is doing something wrong because it is different than what they did at that age. Today, my 20 yr old and I were going down the interstate and we saw a nice 69 Camaro broken down on the other side of the interstate, he insisted we get off at the next exit and go back and help him, which we did. The car had a flat tire and we waited with him until the wrecker got there. Kids of today are not all bad and really aren't any different than you were at that age, it just we are so damn old that we forget sometimes.

Thank you Dave SY1
well put.

Jr68 I completely agree with your assessment. Most of the youth today are completely self absorbed and live in virtual worlds that they create because they don't know how to live in the real world or can't make it what they want it to be. Look at Twitter for instance. How in the world could anyone be so self absorbed that they feel the world is wanting to know their every move? Most of these kids need to put down the electronic toys, actually open the door, walk through it and experience real life for a change. If that sounds harsh, sorry, but they are completely disconnected from what is going on around them today because they are so tied to their text messaging and twitting. Not saying those aren't good tools, when used as a tool and not in excess as they often are. I understand it's necessary to be computer savvy today, but it's also necessary to know how to function with hands on experiences too. Sadly a lot of these kids will be completely lost and require someone to hold their hand through everything that life brings to them because they'll have no skill sets other than text messaging.

X2, but at least they are not destroying our cars. It depends when and where you are. Nowadays many people are in there own stuper.
I just put in a new speedo gear so I am waiting for a thumbs up to ask "how fast are you going" even w/ a 69 lol. But at some shows I hear holly s or omg. It's just time and place. Lastly as long as you enjoy the ride it does not matter. Brian

The youth of today is living in the world that was put in front of them just like we did and out folks did... I don't agree with everything going on today but I don't have to participate in what I don't agree with... As for twitter and tweeting and all the electronic communications, well lets just say it's not just the youth of today that is so self absorbed, adults of all ages are getting in on it and it's not fair to single out just youth...

Dennis I did not mean to put down all youth and just the youth. I see people of all ages completely self absorbed, I've seen great kids that are blanced and well rounded today also. I'm not pining for how things were, I've adapted to the changes in technology, many are for the better. I remember how hard it used to be restoring cars before the internet. It's easy now thanks to advances in our technology. But like I said a lot of folks just miss out on life going on around them because they are busy texting or twitting their buddies with important details that they can't live without like "putting on my shoes now".

Yes we certainly did things that drove our parents nuts as well. I just get a kick out of watching someone spend their whole 3 hours at a ballgame texting and twitting. What a life! Might as well have stayed home. Life is what happens while they are busy twitting insignificant details about themselves and they don't even realize it because it's what they know, what we as adults have created for them and introduced them to. So shame on us, it's not just the youth and it's not all the youth. But it's what they've learned from us, so we are part of the problem if they grow up and can't do anything for themselves.

I feel your pain but some people still look and notice. These cars used to be more common - now not so much but fact is sports cars are common-very common today with spoilers on Hyundai's, Hondas, Mitsubishi's - think 30 years ago -1979 there werent many muscle cars at all - T/As Z's vettes was about it, mustang was - well I wont go there. About 5 years ago a old buddy from cruising days came by we went out and found some Illegal car activities going on so we parked to watch- most of the action was imports and a few mustangs, I noticed some young guys walking around checking out the cars and I sat in amazement that some guy was circling a honda like it was king of the street, mind you we were sitting in a 72 Trans Am - It really has me wondering. Most of the kids today - thats all they know because thats all most have or can afford to drive. My son saw and rode in most of my cars even before he remembered cars-69 Z/28, 70 429cj Torino,70 SS Camaro, 66 Nova SS, 72 455ho Trans Am, 69 455 firebird 87 Trans Am 383and others I feel I have past on some of Musclecars excitement to him- I have done my job. I think most on here have shared this with their kids, teach them how to work on them. My son is 24 now and were still working on projects together, he does brakes and minor things for his buddys so they dont have to pay rediculous bills at the repair shops. seems like fewer and fewer find the enjoyment of working on their own cars anymore?

I have to say, I'm 16, and I love to stop and look at a true classic. If I'm listening to my iPod, I'll still stop and look, regardless of what I'm doing.

I have to say, I'm 16, and I love to stop and look at a true classic. If I'm listening to my iPod, I'll still stop and look, regardless of what I'm doing. Thats awesome!!!

When i was your age my older sister had a boy friend with a 69 Camaro (Dark Plumb) color and man that thing was sick. That all i thought about was that car and if i would ever have the chance to own one just as cool as that one. There is one around here that reminds me of it and its a Pro Street (prostreet69camaro Mike).

I guess I don't get it. I don't build my cars for other people to look at and admire. I build them because I enjoy it and it's an expression of who I am. Not everyone is going to drool and get excited about old cars. The majority of the population use cars for transportation and nothing more. If everyone drove around in a hot rod, that would suck and I would find something else to enjoy. My parents thought I was crazy because all I thought about was cars and motorcycles. I spent all my money on tools, parts, etc.. To them it was a waste of money, if the car ran it should be left alone and driven.

I bet 40 years ago many of our elders were saying the same type of thing about Camaros, Novas, Mustangs, GTO's etc.. Why are these kids looking at these silly "muscle cars" and not waving to me and giving me the thumbs up in my Edsel.

Times change, fads change. I know we all remember mini trucks and how big they were in the 80's and 90's.

True gear heads will always love and respect classic iron. The cars we grew up dreaming about are no longer built. There are kids today that have never seen a classic car in person, let alone been for a ride in one.

I hear people saying how self centered the kids are today (which in many cases is true), but look what started this thread. I'm not knocking the original poster, but the post was started because he and his car were not getting the attention he felt they deserve (or noticed). I know that's not what he was trying to say, but in a nutshell that's what it comes down to.

It's also important cause some of you guys are my elders, and don't you guys deserve respect?

It's also important cause some of you guys are my elders, and don't you guys deserve respect?

Smedley , I like the way you think :yes:
You are alright :thumbsup:

There is hope for the younger generation. I'm 24 now, and I've had my first gen since I was 13. It was a basket case when I got it but after years and years of hard work, I've got a sweet Camaro. When younger people show interest in the car I am glad to talk to them, and inform them about older muscle cars. My first cousin was wanting a RX8 for her first car, but after talking to her a few times, and telling her about the new Camaro, she decided on that and she couldn't be happier with her new ride. Its awesome. When I carry my car to shows, my dad usually goes with me and people come up and 95% of the time ask him if it is his car. He just points to me and says its his. :D 40-50 year old car guys have a hard time believing that a person my age has a first gen. I get the thumbs up when I'm driving and from time to time, I get the occasional idiot wanting to race me in his moms taurus or minivan and I just shrug my shoulders and go about my business.

Andy that is what I like to hear.
It's good to know there are young guys like you out there keeping it alive.
Long live Vintage American Iron !

My car gets plenty of attention from all ages. Having three teenage boys I am going through the "Thats the car I want" thing with all of them. My oldest likes Japanese cars mostly, and I am OK with that. I am thinking we will do a WRX or some other overly turbo-ed 4 banger that puts out way to many ponies. Should be fun. My two younger boys still want a muscle cars and I am OK with that too :) BTW they all listen to Ipods and we have three Xbox 360's in the house (I play when I can) and I don't see it as an issue :)

That's funny because if people are noticing me and waving,I don't know it because I'm generally too busy concentrating on driving my car so I wouldn't know.

I build these cars for me to enjoy and no one else,they'll never generally be shown so it's either a quick peek while I blast by you uncorked or come to my house to see them,that'll be your only chance.:yes:

Don't mean to sound rude but I have no interest in teaching the youth of today about these cars and what they mean to us...let someone else do it,I've given up on the youth of today.

I could care less if anyone notices my car ( 1 out of 3 of my kids has shown an interest in cars ) , but it brings a smile to my face every time these two ten year old youngsters stop by just to look at my 68 . The one knew it was a 68 Camaro the first time he came by , and it didn't have any emblems on it then ,he just knew what he was looking at . His dad has stopped over to see if they were bothering me , and I told him they can stop by anytime .

I have just the opposite problem. My problem is when I am driving down the highway I have people ride along side and stare at the car. I always get thumbs up and nice car when I pull up to a light. The issue I have is all the swerving and tailgating. I have had to take evasive action with some guys getting too close. Of all the people at cruise night it is usually the 60 year olds and the 15 to 20 year olds who stop by my car. The 60 year olds because they were 19 when they were new, and the younger group truly like the look of my car.
It is also funny when you get someone driving by on the highway and they suddenly pop out of their highway stupor and do a big head turn. I guess we are not supposed to drive them. LOL

My wife was checking out at a local supermarket and the checkout boy was telling her about a fall event at the high school where they were raffling off a car he said it was a "Chevy something it started with a C."
She said Cobalt he said no, Well it couldn't be Cavelier was it Camaro.
"Ya ! that's it Camaro he said. "
( probably the first time he heard of a Camaro )

Maybe its just where I live or maybe it's just my car maybe it's not loud enough but when I was young and I saw a muscle car go by when I was walking down the sidewalk I would have to stop and watch it drive by. It wasn't just me but almost all guys my age and some chicks. That's not to say middle age guys weren't admiring these sweet rides cuz they were. My point here is today's younger generation, our future. This has been a collective observation for me over the last couple of summers.
I'll cruise down the street and there are people on the sidewalk walking or just standing there and see my car as just traffic. Come on you know what I mean surely you look out the corner of your eye to see if someone noticed your immaculate Camaro with its gleaming chrome and fresh wax, it's rumbling pipes. What are these kids thinking are they so intent on their Ipods or maybe thinking about getting home to the X-box. Come on we stick out like a sore thumb amongst all those minivans and SUVs.
It's no big deal, I don't need attention but I just think it's sad what our youth thinks is cool or not cool.
So do you guys see this too ?

Here is the solution. Offer such kids a ride in the camaro. Make sure to jump on the loud pedal and they will be avid musclecar fans for life!

Time marches on guys.I hate to say it,but I can relate to these young guns.I am 37,and got into the hobby back in the late 80's when it was cool to have a primered and jacked up 2nd gen with glasspacks,and really cool if that car were actually fast,or shiny.Back at that time car shows were filled with 57 Chevys,pre war iron and lead sleds,and I wouldnt give them a second look.To me all those cars werent really fast,a bigblock Camaro on nitrous was really fast.Today's kids dont see our cars as fast or cool.A brand new Toyota Camry runs the 1/4 as fast as an LS6 Chevelle,and almost everything that is sold today as high performance{even cheap little 4 bangers} are as fast or faster in the 1/4 then any of the published times for bigblock muscle cars.We say the muscle cars were faster on slicks and with the pipes opened up,and they say that a litle 4 banger runs 10's with a handheld tuner and a muffler swap.We ae now relegated to the lawn chair cruise night crowd status.You want young girls to jump in your ride,buy an EVO or WRX.Sorry for the let down guys.

Maybe its just where I live or maybe it's just my car maybe it's not loud enough but when I was young and I saw a muscle car go by when I was walking down the sidewalk I would have to stop and watch it drive by. It wasn't just me but almost all guys my age and some chicks. That's not to say middle age guys weren't admiring these sweet rides cuz they were. My point here is today's younger generation, our future. This has been a collective observation for me over the last couple of summers.
I'll cruise down the street and there are people on the sidewalk walking or just standing there and see my car as just traffic. Come on you know what I mean surely you look out the corner of your eye to see if someone noticed your immaculate Camaro with its gleaming chrome and fresh wax, it's rumbling pipes. What are these kids thinking are they so intent on their Ipods or maybe thinking about getting home to the X-box. Come on we stick out like a sore thumb amongst all those minivans and SUVs.
It's no big deal, I don't need attention but I just think it's sad what our youth thinks is cool or not cool.
So do you guys see this too ?
now if it was a HONDA with a fart tail pipe and huge whale tail and ground effects kit they would cheer ya on!
and dont forget the stickers to make ya go faster!

I am 37,and got into the hobby back in the late 80's when it was cool to have a primered and jacked up 2nd gen with glasspacks,and really cool if that car were actually fast,or shiny.
Rich , sorry but that was never cool :D but yes it was common. Musclecar John -dont give up on them, theyre just ignorant , my son is 24 now and I have younger nephews that are asking me car questions, you cant ignore them -we have to be patient with them. I know as I'm maturing(almost 50) I am appreciating the 30-40's cars that I didnt before. When I was young I paid attention as much as I could -even more now!! to the old timers-they know their stuff! I know some that probably now have forgotten as much as I know now, Ignorance can be cured. Take the time to educate them,I think in this hobby you literally learn something new every day. Make some kids day take him for a ride in a real car! :yes:

Sorry Z man,but I have to disagree.The subject here is what young people consider cool.As I stated,when I started in the hobby,you could offer any kid I went to high school with the choice of a tubbed 57 chevy with a blower as high as the roof,or a primered 75 camaro with N-50's and air shocks,and the Camaro would win every time.Of course I am talking about 16 thru 18 year olds whose definition of cool is to have the exact same car as their head banging buddies,but only louder and faster.Times have changed,but what defines cool to the young generation is pretty much the same.

Zman, he IS talking about Jersey. They have that special Jersey flair and love the 2nd and 3rd gen Camaros there. Isn't Jersey where like 90% of all the IROC Z28s went to? :)

you know let me just say, I'm 22 yrs old, and currently own 3 older cars, a 36 pontiac, 67 barracuda, and my baby my 68 camaro.


Back when we went to go get it from Nebraska we drove around instead of staying the night in the hotel we got, of course we went to go gas up and found a local gas station. We idled up into the pump area and got to see around 60 tuner cars parked at almost every pump, hondas, acuras, hyundais, two or three 90's 00's camaros (one 8 cyl at that) and the owners and passengers of all those cars were looking directly at my car, it may have been the cherry bombs or just the car itself but over 100 people around my own age were awe-struck at vintage muscle.

Of course a few years down the line, I still get random thumbs up and comments and just last week a crowd at the gas station.

Well, lets step back a little...

Back in 1988 during my high school years mine was just a clunker, POS that required 2 quarts of oil, brake fluid, and water daily just to get us out on weekends. We used to make bets on how many times we would break down in any given weekend. Once, sitting in a parking lot trying to get it started I had a local sherriff pull up to check on us and his exact words were "put a bullet in it" before driving off in amusement. I get a chuckle out of that to this day. Sure we thought it was cool and all, but it wasn't no 1988 IROC Z! :) I guess my point is I certainly didn't get a "thumbs up" twenty years ago from the younger generation... Wow that makes me feel old now. :(

I cant drive through town without kids yelling at me to lite it up. I had great conversation with my friends son about the car, last summer, and a good chuckle when I had to explain what a carb was to him.

Hey whats with the IROC jokes?Just cause "I Reek Of Cologne" doesn't mean that "I Run On Coke"and not all of us are "Itailian Rejects Out Cruisin".

Here in Jersey IROC isnt a car,its a way of life.