My grandfather, Opa, as he's affectionately referred to, had a sweet spot for cars. While talking with Oma the other night, she got to reminiscing about all of the different cars in the family. And while others will likely be able to give a more accurate encyclopedia of the family vehicles - I after all was on the other side of the Pacific - I thought a car tribute would be in order.
The 1967 Chrysler Imperial was Opa's toy. From what Oma shared, Opa dreamed of a convertible, but practicalities must've reigned the day. Fortunately, the '67 Imperial didn't have a side door post between the front seat and rear seat windows which meant that with all the windows down there was maximum airflow as if it was a convertible. Chance would have it that I went with Opa when he picked up his new-used toy. Power everything, V-8 Chrysler power plant. It was a ride and one that Opa enjoyed every moment he was in it.
A 1966 Chrysler New Yorker was the family auto for a decade or more and was passed around to various aunts and uncles depending on the needs. In the late '80's my family had use of the beast of a thing. That was unfortunate for the two college students on an all-night road trip back to college in their little Mazda. The New Yorker had a dent in the bumper. The Mazda was totalled. And I had breakfast with two college-aged strangers the next morning.
This was Oma's car. It was a white, mini limousine, electric everything with plush leather and wood interior. Even as a middle school-er, it was regal to ride in that car. Oma added some perspective however, being a diesel engine, she was often stuck having to fill up at truck stops since they were the only service stations to carry diesel. She also shared about a time when Opa had Oma take him to the City Line station only to announce as he exited the car to catch his train, "Oh, you're out of gas" and only for Oma to run out as she was crossing the bridge.
