June 1974. I was 16 and was out for a drive. As I did from time to time, I stopped by Twin Pine Auto Sales in Ephrata, PA to check out their current offering as they were known for their selection of muscle cars at the time. As I pulled onto the lot, I was stopped dead in my tracks by the sight of a 1969 Shelby GT500 convertible sitting front and center near the showroom.
I remember that car like it was yesterday . Gulfstream aqua, gold stripes, white interior, white convertible top. 428, four speed. Absolutely pristine condition and stunning as it sat in the bright sunshine. One problem . . . to the tune of $4,500. Sounds like a pittance now but at the time $4,500 was all the money in the world. I worked part time after school making $1.85 and hour. It sure made an impression on me. It was a real joy just to see it!
Thinking of that day long ago reminds me of how much enjoyment you can get just from being around great muscle cars, even if you don't own one.