Do we need another Cobra Kit Mfg?

[Hal Copple]

a year ago, talked with someone with more wisdom than i, and her opinion was that before long, the Replica market would begin its decline, and the market would contract. As formidable, handsome cars, they will always be admired, for their heritage and unique looks. But given the substantial cost for any one of them, fewer buyers will pass up on the very high performance cars available with the modern features, often costing a lot less, and without all the insurance issues we face.

About 20+ years ago, the sages in automotive forcasting were saying that the Ford T's and A's, in mint condition, were going to skyrocket in price. But what happened was that the older gents who had them or admired them in their youth passed thru their driving years, and that market went away. Sorta like us.

I often go to a local "Hot Rod" night at a bar. Great cars, but the guys are usually about 50-60+ years old, very very few younger owners are interested in these cars. I see the "Muscle Cars" as the hot things now, but in 10-20 years, they too will drop, as their owners pass on.

These are the Golden Years for us Replica drivers, so many fine cars to chose from, so many suppliers of parts. Walked thru a display of about 40 cars from the '20's and 30's last week, but i was the only person there. No one cares about them anymore.

I really do think that most guys who long for a car of their youth want just that, and before too many years, those of us who saw the "real ones" on the road will be in nursing homes.

So put your waxing rags down, and go out and drive this weekend.