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In this Discussion
- Jon B February 2011
- KnightInExile January 2011
- Lee ODell February 2011
- Oldcar_Mechanic February 2011
- twelch February 2011
Building a replica of the 1961 Cadillac
-
I am interested in buying a 1961 Cadillac. But after watching a video about a crash test between a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs a 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air, the footage left me disturbed and now I'm having second thoughts.
You can see the video here:
It appears that cars with crumble zones are indeed safer than the classic cars. I know that it is virtually impossible to retrofit a 61 Caddy with crumble zones because the frame was not designed that way.
Then I was thinking what if a replica was built using more or less the same raw materials for the hull but with a redesigned frame with crumble zones, air bags, ABS, and side beams in mind, would that make the car safer than it's original counterpart? -
First of all it's a 1959 Chevrolet in the crash.
Secondly, it would be extremely expensive to buil the car you are talking about just to have a classic look.
Ron -
Oldcar_Mechanic wrote:First of all it's a 1959 Chevrolet in the crash.
Yes, I understand that, but all pre 1990 cars without the modern safety equipments would have resulted in the same scenario.
Oldcar_Mechanic wrote:Secondly, it would be extremely expensive to buil the car you are talking about just to have a classic look.
Ron
True, but since I can afford it, I'm just wondering if it is even worth it or perhaps I should just forget about it and get a modern car instead. -
It sounds like you would feel safer in a modern car, so you should probably steer clear of an older one.
Those of us driving the older cars know there is a somewhat greater danger of death or injury, should we be involved in a crash. So, we take precautions (like driving defensively, anticipating the actions of others, installing seat belts, and making sure our cars are in a good state of repair) and we undertake the risk. Statistically, we are still unlikely to become involved in an accident but, life is full of risks. If you climb mountains, go sailboating, do sports, or generally go out the front door, you are running a risk. We'd all be safer if we sat in our easy chairs all day watching TV. Life would, however, be more than a little drab.
Modern cars are indeed safer than cars of the 1960's or earlier. However, most of the people killed in car accidents nowadays, are in modern cars. Very few of them are in 1961 Cadillacs. -
It's really very simple......don't wreck!!!!
A hint....the Caddy in video was altered for the test and a rust bucket to boot. Don't believe everything you see.
I had girl run into the back of my 54 Chevy. I needed a new bumper, she needed a new car.....her's was totaled.
Hard to beat real iron!!!Ted J. Welch
Managing Editor
ClassicTruckShop.com -
The Cady is a tough old bird. I witnessed a Crumple Safety type Volve skid for over 300 feet before it collided with a 4 dr Cad's passenger side. It hit the Cady squire in the middle. The Volvo's front end crumpled back to the firewall like it was designed to do. Air bags deployed. The occupants of the Volvo were transported by ambulance to hospital. The side of the Cady was pushed in 3-4 inches and the occupants drove home.
I feel pretty secure in a 5000 lbs + Cady. However, if it had been another Cady hit the Cady that would......
Warning!!! Small cars, don't mess with the big boys.
Take Teds advice. Avoid accidents.
Lee O'Dell -
I am sure that you could find a reputable high line builder (most of which are in Californis I think) they would be able to put a 61 Caddy body on a hand made frame from someone like Art Morrison (I think that's his name).
I just watched a builder put a Checker Taxi on a frame made for it by Art. They don't say what it will cost but it was a nice car when they finished it. It was done for a Casino/Hotel in New York.
So I am sure seeing you can afford it, it can be had if that is what makes you happy. After all, that's what this hobby is about, no?
Maybe check into that avenue and you can have what you want.
Keep us informed though as I would love to hear what happens.
Ron
