Bike Ride 13
3/18/22
David: This is the last spring break bike ride. Since I went through Warwick in Bike Ride 12, I decided to go to Providence for this one. The haul wasn't as big as 12, but I promise you some good cars. Most of the cars were found on the way back from Providence, as I only found a few on my way down to the city.
1963 Chevy Impala Project
We start off in Providence with a classic icon. Whether this really is an Impala or not, the '63 Chevy remains one of the most iconic early '60s muscle cars ever. This '63 Chevy is clearly a work in progress, but looks to be pretty much there. I don't know exactly what needs to be done to it, but it seems like it could be roadworthy now or in the near future. I hope to see it completed soon.
Mercedes Benz 300 Series (W108)
Continuing through the streets of Providence, we arrive at a classic Mercedes Benz. These are instantly recognizable and regarded as some of the most iconic classic car designs ever. They were produced from 1965 to '72, being phased out in '73 by the more modern looking W116 S-Class. This is a survivor car with some aging. Despite the rusty fender and missing wheel caps, this car still draws attention and awe. Because this is such an iconic car, I don't think it matters what condition this could be in, because people would still be drawn to it, and that really says something.
1969 Ford F-250 Ranger Owned by Providence Painted Signs
I didn't really see any cool cars while I rode around the city, but as I was heading out, I came across this classic Ford truck. This truck is owned by Providence Painted Signs, a local sign painting company. They're known for designing and painting local businesses' wall signs and murals throughout Rhode Island. Despite the old truck, PPS was established in 2012, and remains the largest sign painting company in the state. So for that, I'm glad PPS is reusing old trucks for their original intent. This is one of at least two trucks we know of, and Sam found another, which can be seen in the Late Summer (Part 1) 2022 section.
1985 Oldsmobile Toranado
Continuing back to home, we stop off at an '80s Toranado. This is a daily driver, which is a pretty cool thing to see. It's surprisingly in good shape for a car that was known for rotting out. I have to say I'm impressed.
This Olds can be seen again in Bike Ride 19.
Mazda MX-5 (NA) Miata Mazdaspeed
This is a nice stock Miata. I believe this is a Mazdaspeed, but correct me if I'm wrong. I really like the burgundy paint and tan top, it's a great color combo.
Blacked Out Iroc Camaro with T-Top: We've Reached Peak '90s
I thought I had teleported back to the '90s for a minute, but I was wrong. This is most certainly a driving time capsule. Only in the '90s would you see something like this.
An Uncommon Ford Mustang II Cobra
A Mustang II is one of the most unpopular cars Ford ever produced, and for good reason. These were underpowered and looked strange compared to the previous Mustangs that came before it. However, seeing one of these today is a strange feeling. As someone who didn't live through the '70s but knows the history these hold, it isn't as cool as seeing a '67 Shelby GT-500, but because these are so hated and no one owns them, it is cool to see one being saved and still on the road.
Mercedes Benz 560 SEL (W126)
Coming full circle with another classic Mercedes Benz, we have a W126 S class. This is the descendant of the W108 Mercedes 300 Series from earlier. Succeeding the W116, which succeeded the W108, the W126 cars were produced from 1980 to '91. These are still seen on the road today, like this one. Like its cousin, the 300D (W123), these are some of the most reliable Mercedes Benz cars you can buy today. There's a reason why '80s Mercedes cars are still driving today.
Everyone's Favorite: Volvo 240 DL
Last but not least, we have to include a Volvo 240, because why not right? This one has been sitting in this used car lot for years now, and I really hope they list it, because this is a pretty decent 240.