Whether
you’ve just discovered you’re middle-aged, or you just hit 30 and want
to get a jump on that automotive bucket-list, there are a few “must-own”
cars for everyone. They are, each in their own way, staples of
automotive perfection.
Driving one of these is great, but owning one is better. If you’ve
never had the pleasure, it might be about time to sell that minivan or
sedan and grab yourself a used one of these on the cheap. My thinking
is, if there is a supreme being, he’s probably a gear-head like me, and
I’d like to have something fun to talk about when I finally meet my
maker. These are the seven cars you need to own before you die.
7. Early 2000s Chevy Cavalier
We all have to start somewhere. Many of us unfortunates have to start
at the bottom, and it doesn’t get much lower than the Chevrolet
Cavalier. Everyone should be subjected to the lowest common denominator
from GM’s “we just don’t care” era. This uninspired and downright boring
vehicle (in absolutely every respect) will cause the owner to develop
an instant appreciation for the finer things in life.
6. Mid '90s Honda Civic
Why the Honda Civic? Because this is the “old reliable” of Japanese
import cars. There’s a very good reason why it’s often one of the most
stolen vehicles in the United States. It’s easy to drive, dependable,
and lasts forever. If you’re into speed, the Honda Civic will make you
feel like Paul Walker circa 1999 (without actually having to go fast).
It’s also a step up from the Cavalier in terms of comfort and style.
5. Jeep CJ
How could I not put a Jeep on the list? I added the CJ for one simple
reason – its badass-ness. Everyone should experience the excitement of
bounding over obstacles in this military-inspired civilian Jeep. Whether
you dive right in and go with a vintage CJ5 (that’ll tip if you sneeze
in its direction) or opt for a longer-wheelbase CJ8 (a personal
favorite), you can’t go wrong. These vehicles are stripped down in the
most amazing way. You’ll suddenly feel hardcore about life and ready to
take on any challenge that comes your way.
4. Any Five-Speed
This is a very open category. Own a vehicle with a five-speed
transmission. If you’re a person who “likes to drive,” there’s no better
way to engage with your vehicle than shifting through its gears and
working that clutch. Automatics, once considered a luxury, are
considered, at least by me, to be boring. You won’t fall asleep in
traffic if you’re forced to downshift every 10 seconds, and this is the
best way to make an emotional connection with your vehicle.
3. A Muscle Car
You have plenty to choose from here. The only requirement is power.
That means a gas-guzzling V-8 engine and the ability to peel the rubber
off your tires when you slam on the gas. Maybe you’ll decide to own a
late ‘60s Chevy Nova or early ‘70s El Camino. Maybe that late ‘70s
Camaro with the rebuilt 350 caught your eye. Whatever your poison, own
one and drive it like you stole it. This means drag racing whenever the
opportunity presents itself and dusting off that old highschool
letterman’s jacket. You’ll only be made fun of until they hear your
car’s exhaust.
2. Vintage European Car
If you’re serious about your cars, add this to the list. Sure, that
old Jaguar may be a pain to work on and replacement parts may require a
second mortgage, but that’s part of the fun. Go pick up a cheap diesel
Mercedes and have some fun with it or perhaps an early BMW E30. They’re
fun to drive and surprisingly agile for their age. These old European
cars are badass, if not downright timeless. Splurge, and then sell it
for a fraction of what you paid. You can’t take it with you.
1. Any Convertible
Convertibles, depending on where you live, can be awful. If you’re
from the desert, they’re completely impractical during summer. If you
live in colder climates, they’re terrible in the winter, but regardless
of where you live, there’s a season where owning a convertible is the
greatest decision one can make. Driving down an open road with the top
down and music blasting is a very zen-like experience. Convertibles are
able to put you in touch with your surroundings in a way no other
vehicle can.
