This is the month that Chrysler officially stops making PT Cruisers, but what a ride it has been!
The roomy and retro car debuted in the 2000 model year, looking like no other car -- or at least no other car in the last half-century. The public fell in love, and Cruisers began to sell for as much as 10,000 over list.
Then a funny thing happened. People who bought the car because of its looks began to change them. They added chrome or flames or wood paneling, or sometimes all three. Cruiser owners who would wave or toot at other owners began holding gatherings, in Modesto, Calif., Niagara Falls, Wildwood, N.J., and indeed throughout much of the country. In some, more than 500 Cruiser owners would show up to vie for prizes or just to admire other participants' cars.
But, as they say, all good things must end. Apparently most everyone who wanted the quirky car bought one, because sales began to slump. The cars took up semi-permanent residence on dealer lots, and Chrysler decided to put on the brakes.
Many owners, however, still love their Cruisers, are keeping them in good repair, and wouldn't trade them for any other vehicle. Count me among those owners.
UPDATE: Chrysler has abruptly shifted into reverse and announced that it will continue to make PT Cruisers after all. For how long is a question yet to be answered.
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Yesterday as I was taking a brisk walk, a guy I didn't even know started telling me how we "older fellas" have to keep active. Older fellas? I kept active by punching him out.
Richard, I enjoy your blog. Some people try to put to much internet glitter and it distracts from the blog. Your blog came at me like "The Platters" singing "smoke gets in your eyes". instead of Ozzie Osborne with smoke, mirrors and frogs.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks!
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