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Originally Posted by wasif Guys please post your driving experiences here. This was the intention of this thread as its the only reason I believe we spend so much time and money on these cars. |
Let me share with everyone my experiences in driving my 1958 Mercedes Benz 180a prior to its current restoration.
I would take it out only on Sunday mornings, but first I would get it polished by my painter on Saturday. It would be a real pleasure to fiddle with the steering, and turn the ignition key to unlock it, and then press the starter button. She would always start at a half crank but die after a few seconds. After a few pumps on the accelerator pedal, another try and then she would start to idle smoothly.
The clutch was very light, the gearshift precise and tight; just love the way the steering column mounted gear sticks on ponton and fintail Mercs work; with very little play and short throws. Ambassador shifts in comparison are so vague (sorry Amby fans, but that was the only other car I could think of to compare with since same era). And then we would be on our way.
I love the way the 180a accelerates, it's got just enough grunt to keep pace with most modern cars, thanks to its overhead camshaft engine. The steering though was somewhat vague, but light and with a positive self centering action. And as always, there would be eager eyes on the car, many asking questions and some stating with a very knowledgeable look on their faces addressing youngsters, that it's a car from the British Raj era!
My car's brakes were never very good, and with my spirited driving, I've had a couple of close shaves. Sunday morning drives were usually to the club for some beer followed by lunch. Once we reached the club I would park the car in a prime spot, and there the car would rest for a couple of hours. Post lunch and tea, she would again roll home ward bound.
When it became necessary to use the lights, a firm twist of the left fingers on the combination switch and then with a well weighted and precise "click" the side lamps would come on. Another click for the head lamps. And on wintry foggy evenings, a gentle pull for the fog lamps. Oh, and my car has the Euro style horn ring which acts both as the horn and turn signal indicator, though it doesn't self cancel.
The car would glide over most bumps and potholes, without any annoying rattles, and would happily cruise at 50 mph. I did push her once to 70 mph, but shortly after that the crack in the alloy head started causing problems.
Once the car was home, another feather duster wipe and then the cover. Most impressive of all was the wonderful "thump" on closing the doors; it really makes one feel special to own a car with the 3 pointed star!
And then she would sleep till the following Sunday. How I miss driving my car
:(
Regards
Prithvi