Since I brought it up – perhaps a little discussion about our ’64 GTO is in order.
This car was given to us to replace our ’63 SD Catalina aluminum car that was taken away.
Basically, the deal was that the cars were provided to Dad to race (and as drivers), along with a Shell credit card for fuel and access to any factory part made. Dad held the plates and registration but Royal had a “manufacturer lien” on the title, which allowed them to provide and retrieve the cars at will.
Our ’64 had been prepped with a show car paint job (which is another story for another day). When it came time for the Michigan State Fair, Royal asked if we would be willing to display the car on their behalf. Not seeing any downside, Dad agreed.
While the car was on display a potential customer took notice. One of the salesmen, apparently not aware of Dad's arrangement with Royal and seeing that they had the title, assumed the car was available as a demonstrator and was able to close the deal. The car was sold and, after the show, immediately shipped to the new owner, back east somewhere.
Dad came down early the next week to pick his car up only to find (this is the second time now) it was gone. After a flash of deja vu, this time he was not only frantic but he was royally p.o'd. Not only did they sell the car, but sold it complete with all his hop up tricks, headers and tow bar brackets still installed and slicks (mounted on wheels) still in trunk! He was furious and scared, at the same time.
Once again he found Dick Jesse: "Dick, that was MY CAR! I need some money, or another car...or SOMETHING!"
Dick, ever the consumate car salesman, calmly replied: "Van, I want you to settle down. Your new '65 is here."
Our '64 GTO on display at the State Fair:
Here's the back side of that photo:
