THIS MUSTARD Toyota Corona wagon holds precious memories for Will Dodds, recalling many childhood trips around Mount Gambier and to Adelaide.
The ex-demo was purchased in Melbourne over 40 years ago by Mr Dodds’ father and has remained in family ownership.
Mr Dodds now owns the 1975 SE model after inheriting the completely unrestored collector’s item from his parents.
Recalling its history, Mr Dodds believes the vehicle was purchased by his dad in 1977 from a Melbourne dealership after he could not source a wagon locally.
“My dad looked after it over the years which you can tell by just looking at it, it is completely original,” he said.
“In the beginning it was just his everyday car and I heard many stories about it.
“The back seats would fold down and his two sisters would sleep in the back before I was born.”
Mr Dodds said the car eventually became a Sunday cruiser, which only ever left the garage when the weather was clear.
“Some days I think to myself ‘why am I holding onto it?’ but I can not bring myself to get rid of it just yet,” he said.
“I do not really have anything left of my parents which is why I still have it.
“To see someone take it from me and then destroy it would just break my heart, just because I know what dad has done to keep it in its original condition.”
Mr Dodds said the vehicle’s original condition was its point of difference.
“You do not see many like that anymore or any car really,” he said.
“A lot of the older cars have had to be restored because they were not kept clean and rusted out to be just a shell.
“It still has its original paint, which I believe is is old acrylic.
“The colour is not the greatest, but in those days I do not think people really had much option.”
The car features its original four-speed manual transmission and 18R engine.
Last road registered over five years ago, Mr Dodds said when it was on the road it attracted attention.
“We went to Penola one morning for breakfast before my daughter was born, around five years ago, and I remember a few of the older residents stopping to have a good look over it,” he said.
“It is nice when people do take notice and have an idea of its history and value.”
