Knowing Their Quirks

Our Pontiacs are 74 and 95 years old, respectively. While they’re impressive machines and in impeccable condition, each has a driving personality all its own. With time, you learn their quirks — which gears respond best to a double clutch, that 6-volt systems can be a bit fussy to start, and that sometimes patience is as important as horsepower.

After several years of chauffeuring weddings, we’ve come to know these cars like old friends. That knowledge came in handy one afternoon while driving Monica and her father to Felt Chapel for her wedding to Austin. As we waited at the mansion for the cue to proceed, the Pontiac suddenly stalled. A few turns of the key led to nothing but silence — just one of those vintage moments.

Rather than stress, we trusted experience. I eased the car down the hill, let off the clutch, and she came roaring back to life. Monica and her father arrived at the chapel right on time, the car purring proudly once more.

Vintage cars have vintage personalities. Knowing their quirks — and working with them rather than against them — is part of the joy. After all, in chauffeuring as in life, a little improvisation and understanding can turn a setback into a smooth ride.