Back in the Fall David and I took a weekend trip to the National Corvette Museum and Assembly Plant in Bowling Green, KY. I've wanted to post pictures from that visit, but my old scanner was all f*cked up and I'm just now getting the pictures done with the new scanner.
Corvette has always been my dream car. It is a true American Classic, and you would be amazed at the quality of these vehicles. Watching them being assembled gave me an even greater appreciation for their beauty, power, and strength. While they might look small and delicate they are built on bigger and tougher frames than most pick-up trucks. And most cars these days don't even have true frames but are built on "unibody" frames. I can personally attest to the incredible strength of the Corvette frame. Mine withstood the force of an at least 50 mph impact from a car running a red light. While the damage was over $9000 it didn't 'total' my car and the damage was limited to the wheel breaking off and cosmetic fiberglass (used to keep the vehicle weight down) damage.
At the Museum there is a row of Corvette Only Parking. That does lend itself to making you feel special. :-)
Corvette Parking Only (my most favorite machine)
Corvettes are beautiful cars. Their bodies are curvaceous and sensuous and unmistakable. But I'm always interested in the insides of things. That gorgeous and fragile-looking exterior hides true hardiness and real muscle. 
Here you can see the big frame and the center driveline tunnel which leads to the transmission in the rear. This configuration more evenly distributes weight and enhances the vehicle's stability and handling. For size reference the tires are about 11 inches wide.
Speaking of transmissions, here is one that was on display at the Museum. I can't remember which year, but I'm pretty sure it is one from the very early (50s or 60s) models. I was particularly struck by the beauty of this transmission. It's as exquisite as any piece of sculpture, and I'd love to have one just like it to look at and play with. (David thinks I'm really weird for that.)
When people order a new Corvette they can choose the "Corvette Museum Delivery" option. Here are the new ones that were being delivered the day we were there (I love that blue one). If I ever get to order a brand new Corvette I will do this. David bought my 1998 model from a dentist for about half of what a brand new one costs, but it was so well-maintained everyone thought it was brand new.
Guys always want to see under your hood. So here you go. My oldest is oogling it right after I first brought it home. Brings to mind some AC/DC lyrics... "She was a fast machine, She kept her motor clean..."
Here is mine on the day I got it, Jan. 25, 2005. Its body style is called "C5" and 1997 was the first model year for C5s. 1998 was the 45th anniversary year for Corvette. The C6 body style debuted with the 2005 model year. As you can see (fifth pic down) the new style doesn't have the hidden pop-up headlights. I like mine better, but the new style is growing on me.
5 comments:
I remember a road trip to SF where the brakes on my buddy's 1985 Corvette saved our life. Now granted, if we'd been in my Toyota we'd have been going a lot slower and would've had more time to stop, but damn, that was fun time and a great car!
I've developed a real appreciation for rounded curves on bodies, automobile and otherwise. The corvette's a real beaut.
You have a gorgeous car. It looks like you had fun at the museum.
I haven't forgotten about your interview, I'll try to get it this week.
I remember you taking that trip and so glad you had the opportunity to get away. Wishing I could say I liked vettes as much as you...but unfortunately they remind me of a few guys I dated briefly that had them...So when I see one...I think of...(not so positive) Sorry. Yours looks great though!! (smiling) I am more of a Beemer woman...w/my 500 series.
mr g, it's a good thing I did't get mine until I'd grown up a bit. LOL
dh, thanks! But some curves are better than others. lol
kat, thanks! You don't have to do that interview. I was thinking about how hard it would be to think of questions for people. I hope you're feeling better soon!
suzie, that's kind of funny. I feel the same way about certain cars too. Your car sounds real nice too!
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