Although we, Unaffiliated, are very proud to claim that we are a part of the new-school generation of automotive enthusiasts, we have nothing but absolute respect for our elders. Last month I decided to stop by a local car show/fundraiser hosted by the Viejitos Car Club, sponsored by Wienerschnitzel. I can easily say that I learned a lot more about the culture than I did the actual cars themselves.
Car culture nowadays is heavily driven by media and organized events, which we are proud to say we contribute to. Although back in the day the love for automobiles was a love that was usually passed down through generations. Many families and car clubs were able to host gatherings and social events to unite everyone who had a passion for building and driving these beautifully crafted machines. As the cars grow older, the love grows stronger.
The feeling I get when I see a built up, candy painted, chrome finished bomber with original plates is almost indescribable. I get chills simply by the knowledge that these actual vehicles sitting before me started the automotive culture which lead to many makes and models in the future in which we all have fallen in love with countless times.
There is definitely a certain respect to these cars, because we all know that they don't make them how they used to. Everything from full metal, leather, chrome, love benches, and V6's & up. You really have to take a moment to take in the fact that some of these vehicles have been around through World Wars, the passing of Women's Rights, Martin Luther King Jr.'s African-American Civil Rights movement, and all sorts of historical events.
To sum it all up, we understand that there is a love beyond just cars. These automobiles shaped the way we live in ways we wouldn't have ever imagined before. A true automotive enthusiast can respect any others' build as long as the owner is satisfied with it. It is not about the vehicle you own or even what you do to the vehicle, but more about what it means to you.
So next time you see a half painted 92 Honda Accord with Lambo doors, Altezza tail lights and a bodykit out of 2 Fast 2 Furious, remember that he wouldn't be driving that car if he didn't want to. Respect one another and remember that at the end of the day, it's all for the love of the build.
