[DeTomaso] Concours in Hilton Head this past weekend.

[Rob Dumoulin]

I just got back last night from a memorable trip to the Hilton Head, SC
Concours d'Elegance. What a nice show. BMW was the feature mark this year
and with Bimmers being my touring/sport sedan of choice for the past 20
years, it was a treat to see the vintage specimens they had on
display.....that and we were given free parking up front for driving one to
the show.  Our very own Michael Shortt and his wife Joni were gracious
enough to be hosts to Kathy and me for two days in their stunning home and
Michael's great cooking. We threatened to kidnap their Papillon, Cody, and
even did a test to see if Cody would be comfortable tucked into our carry
bag to get him to the car. What a fun puppy.

The highlight of the trip was driving #1660, Michael's car. Being a '71
like mine, I was eager to get ideas for #1488. First impressions are his
cool garage and how clean Michael's car presents. I know you have probably
seen the car on his website, but it's sweeter in person and has a few new
features like the black hood and dogbone detailing not on the website yet.
One thing you can't experience from the site is the power of his engine and
stopping power of his brakes. After the drive, I reported to my wife that
Michael is making me spend money because I now realize my car is severely
underpowered. Not that it's a competition, but d-a-m-n, #1660 is screamin'
fast and fun where #1488 just seems tired in comparison. Brakes are
unbelievable. And then there's the suspension. I didn't know what I was
missing but now I gotta get to work.  I could go on, but it would hurt my
car's feelings even worse. Great ride, Michael, and thanks for the great
weekend and motivation to keep working on my car. I'll have #1488 ready to
take the Summer Summit trip next year.
-- 
Rob DuMoulin