They just don’t make them like they used to. While the automobiles of today are more technologically advanced and environmentally sound than the classic cars of yesteryear, they lack the unique design and style that the classic cars had. While buying a classic car and restoring it may not be possible for a classic car purist, that doesn’t mean you can’t accessorize your current vehicle with items that allude to the glory days of automobile manufacture. Multiple accessories exist to help stylize a vehicle in a classic way.
Fuzzy Dice
Fuzzy dice first became popular in the 1950s when cars like the 1955 DeSoto Fireflite Coronado and 1956 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz were in their heyday. The dice hung casually from the rearview mirror and came in a variety of colors so they could match your car’s interior. The dice remained popular up through the 1980s before falling out of public consciousness but they are still relatively simple to find. Check the local laws before hanging the furry decorations however. States like Minnesota banned them entirely because they can obstruct the view of the road. While fuzzy dice may be cool, they’re not worth a ticket.
Fuzzy Dice
Hood Ornaments
Classic cars from the 30s to the 50s often featured distinctive hood ornaments that were an important part of the car’s overall style. The hood ornament was the centerpiece of the vehicle and one of the first things noticeable about the car, especially when viewed from the front. Some ornaments are now considered collector pieces for this reason. The hood ornament doesn’t have to go on the front of the car if it doesn’t fit or you’re worried about theft. The ornaments are usually made of zinc, bronze or brass and are plated in chrome, silver or nickel, which makes them attractive to metal thieves. The ornament can be attached to the dash inside the car or placed anywhere the car owner prefers, giving you a taste of history from a different era in automobile manufacturing.
Custom Horn
If you actually own a classic car, a specialized horn can make it stand out during parades, auto shows or when someone cuts you off on the freeway. Most horns require a 12-volt electrical system so your vehicle needs to be able to handle that for the horn to function effectively. Some horns play tunes when the horn is pushed while others have a single, distinctive tone. If your car has an alarm that uses the horn, the unique sound helps you differentiate your alarm from someone else’s in the event of activation.
Radio
Car customization shops offer specialized radios that allow you to listen to CDs or MP3 players without losing the look of a classic car interior. These systems are designed to match the look of the traditional car radios of the 50s or 60s while containing the technology of today. This helps you upgrade your classic car or decorate a more recent car with a classic car look. The stereos typically cost more than regular car radios and you should verify your car’s electrical system can accommodate it before installing but the system offers years of enjoyment for any classic car enthusiast.
Does a mechanic (not a dealership) typically add 10% or so to the price of a part (timing belts, water pumps, etc.) or do they just charge what they paid for it? I was just wondering if it’s cheaper to stop at O’Reilly Auto Parts, or the like, and pick up the part and give it to the mechanic to install it.