Is this a rich mans hobby?
 

In a recently locked thread (in the "Open Discussion" Forum?) I was accused of being too hard on someone because I questioned them asking for donations from forum members to support his hobby. A "hobby"... something you don't really NEED. Here are my responses to his rantings.

• I am not a rich man by any means. I stayed in school and got a degree like my parents, who are immigrants from Eastern Europe, told me to do.
  
• I sold my Grand Sport because I couldn't afford to pay the debt I incurred building it. Didn't want to part with it, trust me. I borrowed some money too and paid every penny back. I learned a lot and had tons of fun with the car but I didn't ask other people for money, not even a dollar, so I could keep it.
  
• I work hard in a full time job too, take side jobs, created an internet side business, etc. for extra money to support my family and hobby.
  
• I have a wife staying at home now with a 6 month old baby who is no longer bringing home an income. Yes, less money which sucks, but we believe the sacrifice is worth it.
  
• I lost my job last September (company closed) and found a new one right away because of my work ethic and skills.
  
• My 2 bedroom starter home is too small after 10 years living there. I need a bigger house now that I have a child and can't afford one in my current town so I have to move farther away, thus increasing my commute to work.
  
• I paid student loans for 10 years, never missed a payment on any debt, never bounced a check - ever! How'd I do that?? I just decided a long time ago that I would never do it.
  
• Like most people, I make less than 100K a year. I try to save money, which doesn't leave much to "throw around".
  
• I am generous when the collection plate comes around at church because I know others have needs far beyond mine. Once, when leaving a supermarket, a woman approached me asking for a few bucks for food. I brought her back inside and filled a cart, paid for it and left her in disbelief. (I only reveal that story in hopes to inspire others. Nothing feels better than helping someone truly in need. Try it.)
  
• Until the sale of my "hobby car" my wife and I both drove 1992 vehicles with over 150K miles on them. They were old but they were paid for.

We all work hard. Some of here are blessed with the ability to scrounge up enough to have some fun with a car hobby. Sometimes we also have to sell our beloved hot rods. Some of us are blessed with amazing income levels and feel no want, piling up cool cars left and right. That's just how it is.

Is this a hobby just for rich people? You tell me.

No, this hobby is as expensive as you WANT it to be. I am writing a feature on a guy that has $16k into his '68 Camaro and it's pretty nice. He did this by hunting bargins, doing his own labor and horsetrading. Look at Alcino for another example as well as many others on this board.

My '68 is an expensive car, but I am not rich. I got it by "building up" over the course of many many years. My Fairlane looks pretty good and there's only $10,500 cash into it. So, to sum it up, to play in the big leagues you need big money, but to just play it's not expensive at all.

Well said, Steve.

I couldn't afford to build the car I am without the side jobs I do. It's a challenge, but that's also why it's so rewarding.

Mecom,

Ok... Look, I have to say, I was a bit harsh coming back at you. Stress lately has been at its all time high for me and i hadnt had my morning smoke. Those two combined didnt help me reply all that well. I'm sure you and I could be good friends, I apologize for coming off too harsh.

On to your question.

Steve is right, the hobby can be as expensive as you want it to be. But lets face it, you wont find a car these days for $100 in show car condition. It just ain't happening. It is however one of the most expensive hobbies when you compare it to, say.... Tennis or bowling.

I'll explain my situation... i had planned on saving the $1,000 i need for my car in the upcoming year, however... i have a current situation that i cannot... under any circumstances let pass me by. Which means the car needs to be bolted up and ready to drive by spring. Hence my haste and anxiety about the situation. Mecom PM me if you want more details, i promise it wont be a sob story.

No its not a rich man's hobby, but it isnt for broke folks.

Apology accepted. I'm a bit edgy too, as you can imagine, after having to sell my dream car that I put my heart, soul, time and treasure into. It just bugged me to see someone asking for money after the sacrifice I just made.

Well said,Mecom racer.100% right. I do understand charity but begging for hobby car:rolleyes:

How does charity begin unless one asks for it?

I guess i dont see it as begging, more as asking for charity.

I agree with the general consensus. It is all in how you want to play the game. The problem comes when your wants far surpass your means. This happens to be the case for me. I am just lucky that my Dad wants to build a cool project and I get to be involved. I have a 69 Camaro with 20k original miles on it my dad and I restored 20 years ago. I would love to redo it, but..... One sub-100K income, 2 1/2 year old twins yada yada yada. Sound familiar? So they say patience is a virtue, I'm counting on it. I will enjoy the car the way it is until I can do more. Until then, I will enjoy helping my dad spend my inheritance!!!! LOL:lol: It is not a rich man's hobby per say, but as with most things I would definately like to try it as a rich man! Hang in there Max and breathe before you ignite the keyboard. You'll work it out.

You are right i ment asking.I truly dont think charity is begging.Sorry.

I think you were on the right track when you were asking for opinions on ways to earn extra money. Beyond the jokes about selling yourself, you did get some good advice.