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Looking through the accident/SaabSavesLives section, some of the wrecks brought tears to my eyes.
Just to imagine
Standing outside, gazing in soundless shock at my beloved 900S as it lies crippled and bleeding onto the road. Lovingly polished panels crumpled and torn, the headlights blinded and shattered, its very form twisted and broken.
Though hope that never happens to something I love so much, I cannot imagine a more selfless way for a Saab to pass away. Especially if I were to be at fault for the accident, the ultimate self-sacrifice.
Yet I can still remember the pride that swells in me when I imagine the upgrades that will come to it in time, or when the octane booster makes the 16valve purr like a content kitten. Or seeing the sky reflected in 15 year old panels after an afternoon of toil with wax and a set of rags.
I know it's not the SPG i covet. I know it doesn't have the turbocharged engine, snazzy body kit, or tri spoke wheels. i don't have halogen bulbs in the airdam.
I inherited the ultramarine 3 door from my father. It sat the first winter uninsured. That summer, on top of the exorbitant inusrance, i had to replace a vandalized windshield, repair the wiring to my taillights, and install a new fuel pump. There's rust on the front fender panels which were replacements for an serious accident long ago. My tailpipe rattles when i corner left hard. My mag wheels have paint chips on them, the rear shelf is constantly covered in fabric runs, and there is some minor interior wear.
It's a long road ahead of me, and this winter it sits once again under the cover.
I'm pouring money, time, and tears into this car to restore it to its former glory. It has been graced with clockwork maintainance throughout its life. It has recieved new speakers and a CD deck. This summer i'll be replacing the clutch plates, and doing some body work with the rusting wheelwheels and peeling strip on the tip of the hood. More if I have the money. Maybe build a new black shelf with a black laminate instead of carpet.
I know it's likely i'll obtain an SPG in the next few years, and it would be my dream car and recieve all the attention, but I cannot imagine ever ridding myself of the current one.
I know it seems i'm fighting a losing battle. The only thing that keeps me going is how much i love this car, and the fact that most of the issues are minor cosmetics, and thus, can be overcome.
I know the only thing that can make me smile through all the setbacks and inability to drive it during the semesters is to imagine how wonderful it will be when it's finished.
And even better, it's the smile that you'd expect from someone who has just finished the long process of restoring a car to it's original pristine condition.
I'm not there yet, but I can feel it. And I know only a Saab would inspire such loyalty and devotion in me.
Goodnight.
posted by 205.206.19...
, Thu, 8 Jan 2004 05:28:44
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