Been along time

[sasquatch]

Dont read any further if you are offended by stories of exceeding posted speed limits. You have been warned....


Had a fitting end to the summer season here in Idaho today. My father called me this morning asking if I wanted to follow he and mom for a little romp up the canyon after meeting for lunch. I agreed. Now, what car do I take.

The 944 is much faster and handles better than my 914 (914 is stock, the 944 highly modded for auto-x), but it was one of the last good days I am sure, so the wife and I popped the roof off the 914 and fired her up.

I have not driven the 14 since May. Been too busy with the new house. Felt good to get back into such a primal little car. After lunch we headed up highway 52 between Emmett and Horse Shoe bend Idaho. Nice windy road that follows the Payette river.

My father drives a jet black Ferrari 348ts, and he quickly set the pace at between 90-100mph. Traffic was near non existant so we had the road to ourselves. My wife was in the passenger seat enjoying the warmth and the spirit with which we were driving. (I wonder what my mother was muttering to dad about the speeds, she does not share the passion).

I quickly got back in tune to the fine art of 914 driving. With only 1.8 liters (stock) powering us, the car is definatly a momentum car. Once going, dont back out of it, ever. The little car seemed to really enjoy the trip. Rocketing from one apex to the next, little 4 cylinder whailing in perfect tempo, never missing a beat.

The road south from Horse Shoe Bend back to Boise is a main 4 lane road that goes over a long steep grade. This is where it really sucked. The car simply lacked the power to keep the Black Stallion in my sights, and it quickly dissapeared.

After cresting the summit all bets were off and it was about 120-130mph playing catch up through the high speed sweepers. Car felt a little loose, but not bad for stock components that were 32 years old. (In excelent shape, though). Found out the car redlines in 5th at right about 130mph indicated.

What a great day and a nice ride. I just have to get that motor built sitting in my garage (2.0) to give baby some more get-up and go.

Cheers!