WHY BOTHER?
As one former racer of my acquaintance puts it: some cars, he says, are appliances. Like a toaster, or a vacuum. You use it to get something done: in most cases, getting where you need to go. When they are done, you get rid of them -- trade them in, sell them to a junkyard.Other cars, though, are works of art and craftsmanship. They get under your skin. Those ones you treat differently.
It's worth noting that this mechanic I speak of has owned 6 XR4s in the last 30 years, and raced 2 of them.
Why bother? Why bother doing anything?
Because you might love it, that's why.
TODAY
What goes into owning a car that is 30 years old?
PROS
Rarity.Only 40,000 of these cars were ever brought in. 30 years later, there are probably fewer than a thousand left. But where they were considered strange-looking and unusual during the Reagan era, now they are distinctive and intriguing.They draw attention at auto shows much like a rare Corvette, and all over, people stop to look, or ask questions.Restoration.These were powerful, versatile cars that respond well to modification and TLC. The engine is "bulletproof" according to one master mechanic I know, and some of the mistakes that Ford made in building the cars can be pretty easily corrected by someone who knows what to do. Making the car into what it was new -- or should have been, even then -- guarantees some delight when you get behind the wheel.
CONS
Maintenance.Keeping a thirty-year-old imported car running is one thing. The drivetrain and transmission are still common enough to be average priced in terms of repairs, and you can still get parts if you know where to look. But keeping it in tiptop shape is an expensive commitment.Age and Manufacture.These were not perfect cars. They have some well-known flaws, which you either learn to live with, or learn to fix. Especially after thirty years. These aren't cars you buy because they're cheap and reliable. They really don't qualify as either.
Go-Fast modifications.The bad news: a lot of these old cars are gone. The good news: everyone who's not serious has gone to a different party. What this means is that half the cars you are likely to encounter have already been kitted out, and the ones that haven't are just begging for it. If you feel like adding an intercooler and stainless exhaust system, you can get them. You can even buy them used or cheap from other enthusiasts.
THINGS TO DO
Car Shows.These cars go over well. Take it to a show and be prepared to meet a lot of friendly people asking questions.Take it for a spin.Because the car was built for the autobahn and it begs to be driven like it. Take it on some country roads with the moonroof open and windows down for a leisurely cruise. Or punch the gas, spin up that turbo, and make sure you're not pointed into the ditch ... because if you are, you'll be there much sooner than you think.
Racing.Not my thing, but I've heard enough that these cars are cheap, strong, and bulletproof, so they're good at it for little investment.