Hans is charmed by classic cars. He owns some beautiful and special examples that you can look at with wonder and admiration, such as the Ford Taunus Transit that he is currently restoring. It is pure nostalgia; these are the memories of his father's company car. And we, as classic car enthusiasts, know: some memories you cherish forever. You are allowed to fall back on your memories!
Reliving
Hans says: “My father used to work as a mechanic for the Amstel Breweries and drove a Ford Taunus Transit. Now it is an enchanting classic car that I am restoring. It is coming back completely in its original form and is thus becoming a work of art on wheels. It is my passion; for me it is enthusiasm that gives me energy. I enjoy my car hobby and am excited about the possibilities that I have. This car is an extension of myself. It is emotion, and that is why I chose to restore this workhorse.”
Also inspired by the Rover
Recently Hans had the opportunity to view a Rover 2000 TC from 1971. This car had only 113.000 kilometers on the counter, is originally Dutch, has a history of two owners and matching numbers. The history was partly known: the Rover had stood still for more than ten years in a warm and dry warehouse in Emmen. Connoisseurs know that this version is rarer than the 2200 TC and the 3500 TC. It is a stylistically and technically advanced car from the top segment, often driven by notaries and doctors. As proof, there is still a doctor's bag on the back seat.
Careful with classics
Driving heritage is everything that gives life colour. This Rover 2000 TC also has a special colour, “Mexican Brown”. After purchasing it, Hans only had a thorough health check carried out. All fluids were replaced, the tank and carburettors cleaned, spark plugs replaced and the valves adjusted. The brakes were checked and then the test followed: the Rover started smoothly and drove perfectly during the test drive. Once again it turns out that the things that really make you rich are not always to be found in your wallet or bank account. You can love your car hobby so much that you almost become a different person. It is giving your full attention to something that gives you pleasure.
A long story?
Behind every hobby car there is usually a long story, but the Rover 2000 TC is an exception: it was the purchase of a perfect car. A lot of time still needs to be invested in the Ford Taunus Transit. With a healthy dose of skill, a lot of patience (and coffee) this car will also one day appear in the columns of Auto Motor Klassiek to show up.
(The article continues below with the photos.)
Beautiful stylish car (even that Transit).
I would never park him (or her) on the grass (or any other unsolid surface), as that would guarantee complete rot in a short time due to rising damp.
Beautiful that Taunus. Rover too by the way.
Clean.