My Favorite Cars: A Journey Through Automotive Passion

Every car owner has one vehicle that stands out in their heart. This is not just about the statistics or the stats; it's about the emotion and the experience. In my case, I have been fortunate enough to own or interact closely with a few remarkable cars over the years. In this article, I will delve into why these specific cars are my favorites.

1993 Mazda RX-7

The 1993 Mazda RX-7 is a prime example of a car that demands respect and admiration. When I owned it for over 15 years, it was clear that it was not just any ordinary car. Known for its racing pedigree, the RX-7 is perfectly balanced and capable of performing flawlessly on the of its most notable attributes is that it requires a driver to earn its trust and precision. It's a car that challenges you, but it never bites you without warning. Despite its demanding nature, it remains one of my favorite cars due to its exceptional capabilities.

After owning this car for a considerable time, I decided it was time for a change. By the age of 20 years, the engine started to exhibit signs of wear due to a worn-out oil control ring. However, with a complete rebuild, modification, and tuning, the car regained its exceptional condition, making it even more impressive. Unfortunately, I sold it during the pandemic because of the health situation, feeling the need for a different automotive experience.

2009 Porsche Cayman S

Contrary to my previous love, my current favorite car is the 2009 Porsche Cayman S. This car represents a different kind of joy that goes beyond the adrenaline rush of the RX-7. Owned now, it perfectly encapsulates the essence of a modern sports car. Here are some reasons why it holds such a special place in my heart:

One of the few mid-engine cars available in a realistic budget A six-cylinder engine instead of a four-cylinder one A genuine Porsche, both in name and in quality Its renowned flat 6 engine, producing a legendary sound A reliable and easy-to-maintain modern model Available with a manual transmission, a feature cherished by many enthusiasts

However, the journey to owning this car was not without its challenges. It was difficult to find in Canada, and purchasing it involved some emotional rollercoasters. Yet, once I got it, the challenges of owning it were overshadowed by its exceptional performance and reliability. The Cayman is more versatile and usable than the RX-7, providing a better overall quality of driving experience. While the RX-7 stirs your soul, the Cayman pleases your mind, making it a unique and cherished vehicle in my collection.

The First Car I Owned: Jowett Javelin 1951 E1PC

Before I could get my hands on the sleek and powerful cars like the RX-7 and Cayman S, I had the privilege of owning a decidedly different vehicle, the Jowett Javelin 1951 E1PC. This early model, rare and unique, required a bit of work on my part to fully appreciate it. Equipped with a 1.5-liter flat four engine, a four on the column gear change, and decent 9-inch drum brakes, it was a labor of love. With its torsion bar suspension and leather seats, this car offered a comfortable ride, and its 28 mpg suggested that it was efficient beyond expectations.

After a bit of tuning, the Javelin could exceed 95 mph, allowing for thrilling drives. However, fate had other plans; a valve dropped, and the car was written off in an accident. Later, I replaced it with a Triumph TR4, which had a 4 on the floor gear shift, overdrive on top, and three ratios. Unfortunately, it still had a lousy rear suspension. Eventually, I settled on the current D-Max dual cab, which has been my favorite car for the past 12 years.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, my journey with cars has been both challenging and rewarding. Each of these cars has taught me something unique about engineering, driving, and my passion for automobiles. Whether it's the adrenaline rush of the Mazda RX-7, the reliability of the Porsche Cayman S, or the early engineering marvels of the Jowett Javelin, each car has its own charm and significance. Ultimately, the fact that I can't choose between them only emphasizes the richness of automotive experiences and the love I hold for each one.