A classic American Ford Mustang
I just attended the 2018 Classic Auto Show & Cruise-In, which took place in Dublin, Ohio (a suburb of Columbus), which featured a selection of privately-owned classic cars, ranging from a 90-year-old Ford to modern-day "classics."
I always have fun attending these types of events, because you get to see, or maybe experience, history via a very unique lens: the classic American car.
A few things popped out at while walking around and talking to the proud owners at this event:
1. The sixties was a great time for cars, music, and culture. This decade knew it's identity and proudly showcased it through its music and cars. Yes, the Vietnam War was quickly escalating, but the full effects of a nation coming to grips with this reality wouldn't really be felt until the 70s--at least as it pertained to mainstream culture.
2. Gasoline was plentiful--vehicle safety features, not so much. The Oil Embargo wouldn't take place until 1973, so many of the vehicles on display prior to this year have the gas-efficiency of a tank. These vehicles could do two things very well: move very quickly, and consume large amounts of fuel. Also, for safety features, one would rely on a very flimsy seatbelt, and a car made of solid American steel. Both of these would change in the coming decades.
3. Classic car culture is not just for the generation who lived it during the sixties. I saw many younger faces who proudly showed their vehicles. This was actually a bit of a (happy) surprise to me. For the auto industry, this is probably a good sign in general.
4. And yes it's true, the generation that makes up the largest demographic--the generation that actually experienced the peak of the American-muscle car movement in the 60s, is showing signs of aging--with hair fully grey and a few steps slower. But this generation still embraces the feel-good attitude that, for the most part, rode high in the 60s.
So yes, I enjoyed seeing all of the different types of cars at this car show, but I enjoyed most experiencing this with the generation that loved their cars the most.