Expert: Brad Sears - 3/24/2008

Question
I have the option of retoring the original front end suspension steering and brake system or I could also change the above using conversion kits. If i kept everything original would i regret it in terms of stability and control in driving.

Answer
The answer to that is up to you and what you are expecting from the car. I have three very different old cars. One is a 1941 Ford coupe that is stock except for the smitty mufflers and duals. It as all cars in that era has no power steering or brakes. It is a great back road cruiser at moderate speeds. And a delight to drive considering auto technology of the 40's. My 1952 restored 5 ton military wrecker is a big bear to drive and lots of fun as a slow speed growling big rig. It drives entirely different than my big diesel pusher bus motor home. The wreckers top speed is 45 miles per hour but a crowd pleaser at parades. My 1979 Pontiac Grand Lemans sedan sits on GTO suspension, runs a fuel injected 400 CID Pontiac engine with a custom fuel injection set up and get power to the rear wheels via a 700R 4 speed. It is nowhere near stock and a gem to drive for handling, performance, and yes once the tranny jumps into overdrive the fuel economy is about 26 miles per gallon. So, the answer is what do you want?
Brad