In a world of changing car tech, some high school car enthusiasts find joy in restoring old cars and keeping things hands-on.
Cars have always been seen as an art form for many. Their love for classics and modest vehicles as well as keeping them in mint condition to show off. Loud engines and big wheels are top priority. Most would tell you they would never trade theirs for something like a Lamborghini or Tesla.
For Gage McDonald (12), fixing up cars is a mental necessity. It’s not just about taking them out for a drive but about knowing their car as an extension of themselves. “I have an addiction to fixing old cars,” said McDonald, who feels that working on vehicles connects them deeply to the mechanics behind every drive. McDonald’s car, a 1987 Ford Bronco, is more than a method of transportation for him. “It’s not just a car,” he said. “It’s a part of me.”
However, some aren’t happy with the future of cars as it becomes a more prominent topic. Self-driving cars and modern “sleek” designs. McDonald being one of them “Electric cars will never replace the power and performance of diesel,” speaking to the sentiment that raw power might be fading in favor of quiet efficiency as well as him not being a fan of shift towards smart vehicles “because it gives the car a shorter lifespan.”
Chase Costa (12) has 1993 Chevy Silverado C1500. While agreeing with the idea that electricity cannot outperform gasoline, he doesn’t see the addition of electricity as a negative, more of a preference as well as automated driving just not being for him. “Self driving vehicles are cool and super futuristic but for me, it would ruin the fun since I enjoy being behind the wheel of a car.” The addition of smart technology is also a concern, with another student explaining, “I’m not a huge fan of smart vehicles. They give cars a shorter lifespan.”
Working on cars, many believe, builds independence. “When I work on my car, I learn how it works,” McDonald shared, underscoring the pride in learning skills firsthand. For these students, custom repairs and upgrades aren’t just practical, but they are essential to car culture. Costa said, “Car culture is important in shaping personal identity because it allows other people in the car culture to connect and be a part of something.”
Looking at the future, students believe car culture will persist, with McDonald confidently saying, “People will still be passionate about cars 20 years from now.”
Costa said, “The culture is pretty positive even with some people who hate on others and start problems—I still see it around in 20 years and people aren’t going to stop modding cars.”
Despite technological shifts, the bond between driver and machine remains a source of freedom and pride for them, a piece of tradition they’re eager to keep alive.
