Monuments and cultural relics serve as tangible vessels for human history and culture. In the realm of the automobile industry, classic cars play a pivotal role as carriers of automotive history.
Unlike precious cultural relics, which are shielded behind thick glass with precisely controlled temperature and humidity, classic cars share a closer connection with their enthusiasts.
Ford Mustang
In 1964, the Ford Mustang emerged at a time when the oil crisis had yet to unfold, and authentic American muscle cars thrived. However, these powerful vehicles remained a distant dream for the ordinary working class due to their hefty price tags.
The Ford Mustang, a game-changer, altered this narrative. It presented the working class with an alternative model possessing the design flair of a muscle car but at a more affordable price. It earned the moniker of the "Working Class Hero" in the automotive industry.
Over fifty years ago, Ford achieved this by streamlining the production process and reducing electrification functions, resulting in a more budget-friendly Mustang.
This cost-effective approach continues in the current sixth-generation Mustang, featuring a 2.3T EcoBoost turbocharged engine that not only delivers excellent power performance but also ensures lower fuel consumption.
The interior design pays homage to classics while maintaining affordability, upholding its identity as a Working Class Hero.
Cadillac Coupe De Ville
Those who have watched "Green Book" may recall the elegant Cadillac, a representation of classic American luxury sedans in the 1950s and 1960s.
With dimensions reaching 5 meters in length and 2 meters in width, these cars make a striking visual impact. Adorned with numerous chrome-plated aluminum parts and a plush, comfortable interior, the 1959 Coupe De Ville epitomizes classic American luxury.
However, despite the spacious design, this Cadillac model, with a wheelbase of 3302mm, only offered the seating space equivalent to a mid-size sedan.
The discrepancy raises questions about Americans' preference for ample luggage space over the rear passenger room.
Porsche 911
Porsche's 911 series is a dream for many enthusiasts. From the air-cooled engines of the G-Series and 993 to the controversial 996 ushering in a new era, the series has maintained its essence.
Retaining the "outdated" rear-mounted rear-drive layout and the iconic rounded frog shape, the 911 series incorporates modern technology and continually refines the daily driving experience.
While the 911 series may not stand out as the most technologically innovative or aesthetically striking sports car, it distinguishes itself as a practical and enjoyable daily driver.
Its power feel and chassis tuning provide a confident and composed driving experience, setting it apart from other European high-performance sports cars.
Skoda Octavia
Skoda has long been synonymous with affordability and practicality.
Even nearly 60 years ago, the Octavia series demonstrated impressive trunk storage space, with the station wagon version introducing a two-stage opening structure for enhanced usability.
While the 1.2L naturally aspirated engine may not deliver thrilling driving pleasure, it's pairing with the 4MT manual transmission ensures ease of control and commendable fuel efficiency.
Today, Skoda models maintain a reputation for interior space performance, with many sedans featuring hatchback trunk designs, significantly improving trunk convenience.
