Great weather and a strong (15 car) turnout for the Tallassee trip, with Miatas, a Lexus, a Honda, a Sunbeam, Jaguars, Triumphs, new and old MINIs and MGs in train, and Malcom with a 5-speed Jag XJ-6 Series III. Yep, three pedals in a Jag sedan. Wow!. Blitz kept us in line and on time, and we arrived at the airport and hangar, both leased by Mr. Harwick. The collection was as Adams described, eclectic, wide ranging, and interesting every one, including the two YAK aircraft in excellent condition. Have you ever seen how small a Messerschmitt mini car is? Alex’s MINI looked like a MAXI in comparison.
Mr. Harwick has a binder with a story and a nickname behind every vehicle he has ever owned. He was a gracious host, and joined us for lunch, and offered a follow on drive for those interested – Dave and I think Blitz and Amanda took him up on the offer. He offered the hangar for visits in the future, and mentioned hoping to join up with Club events as well, God willing.
Many thanks for setting this trip up, Russell, it was very cool! Equal thanks to Dave, who was a great point man. Mary took many pics, so luckily my failure to bring a phone or camera will hopefully be forgotten.
Blitz & Amanda, Steve and Joan, and David took Mr Harwick up on his invitation for a ride out to Horseshoe bend. Three of them made a spirited run after Steve & Joan peeled off for Alex City. At the park, Alex shared stories of how he accumulated many of his cars. Back in the day no one wanted used Ferraris. He did and started buying. Many were bought in the $1,000 range. He has owned 6 or 7 as I recall. Most of those would be worth in the millions now. He also owned a few Dinos.
The Volvo 1800s were great to see along with the Fly Yellow Ferrari 308 GT4. Interestingly, Mr. Harwick developed a love for Miatas along his long collection road and said in his opinion they are the most fun car available today for the money. As a prior owner of four Miatas, I’ve gotta agree.
Tom Miro