Revive Classic Memories: A Review of 'My Dad Had That Car'
For those who cherish America’s automotive heritage, My Dad Had That Car: A Nostalgic Look at the American Automobile, 1920-1990 offers a sweeping journey through seven decades of car culture. Authored by famed historian and illustrator Ted Burness, this expansive volume captures the evolution of American automobiles in remarkable detail, making it a treasure trove for enthusiasts eager to explore the cars that once defined generations.
Key Features
At over 1,300 pages, this book provides an immersive, comprehensive look at American cars, tracing their development from the Ford Model T era through to early 1990s SUVs. The inclusion of more than 12,500 illustrations—genuine factory photographs and finely detailed drawings—brings the past vividly to life. Ted Burness’s decades-spanning archives offer readers authentic glimpses of classic collector, luxury, sporting, and everyday vehicles, complete with specifications such as engine sizes, horsepower, and original price points.
Organized by era, the book flows through distinct automotive epochs: the streamlined art deco vehicles of the 1930s, the iconic tail-finned "land yachts" of the 1950s, the muscle car dominance of the 1960s and ’70s, and the transition to early sport utility vehicles by the 1990s. Complementing this rich visual history is insightful commentary from automotive journalist Matt Stone of Motor Trend Classic, which adds context and analysis to the vast array of vehicles featured.
Discover the Charm of Classic Cars
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Detail and Scope: Readers praise the enormous breadth covered and the depth of information, making it unmatched in chronicling American automotive history.
- Ideal for Enthusiasts and Collectors: Many reviewers note it’s the perfect gift or coffee table book for classic car fans who enjoy flipping through archival photographs and comprehensive specs.
- Informative Organization: The sector-by-sector, decade-driven layout helps readers easily navigate the distinct eras of American car design and innovation.
Cons
- Black and White Imagery: A common critique is that the entire book is in black and white, which some find detracts from the visual appeal, especially given the colorful designs iconic to certain eras.
- Mixed Photo Quality: While the quantity of illustrations is impressive, a few customers mention that some images are grainy or of uneven quality, reflecting the age of original sources.
- Bulk and Size: Due to its vastness, some readers find the book hefty and less portable than smaller pictorials.
Who Is It For?
My Dad Had That Car is tailor-made for dedicated American car aficionados, classic car restorers, and automotive historians. Anyone with a genuine interest in the evolution of America’s vehicles—from vintage sedans to muscle cars—will find the breadth of content invaluable. It’s also ideal for gifting to car lovers who enjoy nostalgic journeys back to the golden age of American car culture. However, those seeking vibrant, color photography or a compact reference might find this volume less suited to their tastes.
Dive into Automotive Nostalgia
Final Thoughts
With its unparalleled scope and meticulously documented history, My Dad Had That Car: A Nostalgic Look at the American Automobile, 1920-1990 stands out as a definitive resource on American cars from the 20th century. While the monochrome presentation and varying picture quality may not cater to every aesthetic preference, the sheer volume of information and the passion infused by Ted Burness make this a compelling addition to any classic car library. For enthusiasts eager to explore the stories and specs behind the cars that shaped American roads, this book offers a captivating, richly detailed ride through automotive history.
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