Reviving Memories: A Journey Through My Dad Had That Car

For anyone fascinated by the rich and colorful history of American automobiles, My Dad Had That Car: A Nostalgic Look at the American Automobile, 1920-1990 offers an extraordinary deep dive. This extensive volume by Ted Burness stands as a comprehensive tribute to seven decades of automotive innovation, cultural shifts, and personal memories tied to classic cars. Whether you are an avid car collector, history buff, or simply someone who cherishes the nostalgia of “the good old days,” this book aims to reconnect you with the cars that once roared down American streets.

Key Features

Massive Collection of Illustrations and Content
Spanning more than 1,300 pages and showcasing over 12,500 illustrations, the book is a monumental effort packed with photographs, factory-fresh images, and detailed drawings. These visuals cover more than 250 manufacturers and hundreds of models, capturing everything from the iconic Ford Model T of the early 1900s to the muscle cars and early SUVs of later decades.

Decades of Authentic Documentation
Ted Burness, a famed auto historian, compiled this work with years of research, including his popular newspaper column Auto Album and his American Car Spotter’s Bible. The book carefully notes original specifications such as prices, horsepower, and engine details, making it a treasure trove for those who crave in-depth knowledge beyond surface-level nostalgia.

Discover the Nostalgia of American Cars

Chronological Organization by Era
The content is organized chronologically, taking readers through distinct automotive eras—from the art deco streamliners of the ‘30s to the tail-finned “land yachts” of the ‘50s, muscle cars of the ‘60s and ‘70s, and the emergence of early SUVs in the ‘90s. This approach provides not only historical context but also allows one to trace the evolution of design and technology in American automobiles.

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Insightful Commentary
The book includes an introduction and commentary by Matt Stone, an automotive journalist from Motor Trend Classic, lending modern perspective and enhancing its appeal to both serious collectors and casual readers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Extremely Comprehensive: With over a thousand pages, it delves deeper than most automotive histories.
• Rich Detail: Specifications and historical data are meticulously documented.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Readers consistently mention the joy of reminiscing about cars their parents owned, making it a sentimental keepsake.
• Ideal Gift for Car Lovers: Many customers have noted it as a perfect gift for vintage car enthusiasts or those interested in American heritage.

Cons

• Black and White Images: Some reviewers found the predominantly black and white pictures reminiscent of newspaper prints, which can feel dated and less visually striking.
• Mixed Color Content: While some appreciate any color content included, others wished for more vibrant or fully colored pages to enhance the overall viewing experience.
• Physical Size: The sheer volume and weight of the book may be cumbersome for casual readers looking for quick browsing.

Who Is It For?

My Dad Had That Car is ideally suited for classic car enthusiasts, automotive historians, and anyone with a fondness for American culture during the 20th century. It also makes a thoughtful gift for fathers, grandfathers, and family members who appreciate the nostalgia associated with past decades of American automotive design. Additionally, students and researchers studying industrial or cultural history will find the detailed documentation highly valuable.

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Final Thoughts

In My Dad Had That Car: A Nostalgic Look at the American Automobile, 1920-1990, Ted Burness accomplishes a monumental task—capturing over seventy years of automotive history in one exhaustive, lovingly detailed volume. While the black and white visual style and the sheer size of the book might not appeal to everyone, the breadth of information and nostalgic value are undeniable strengths. With its thorough specifications, era-by-era organization, and heartfelt commentary, this book offers both education and reminiscence for anyone captivated by the story of the American car. For collectors and nostalgia seekers alike, it’s a compelling journey worth taking down memory lane.

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