Restoring an SSP in Different Agency than Original?

[28HopUp]

Originally Posted by NoDrama43

Tribute cars are commonly referred to as clone cars which are commonly referred to as clown cars. Regardless of what others may say (in an effort to be politically correct) clown cars are generally looked down upon by enthusiasts that have made the effort to restore an SSP back to correct Agency/conditions etc.

The car isn't an Alabama car. If you want an Alabama car you should find one to restore. FHP cars are a dime a dozen, so I understand why you want something different. But clowning the car is a huge mistake in my opinion.

Jim, I realize that enthusiasts have a different definition for various terms in the car hobby. For the benefit of Ron/90Coupe and others, let me put out the terms for consideration/discussion.

I consider a clone to be an authentic re-creation of an existing vehicle. This can be done tastefully, IMO, but not everyone will appreciate a vehicle like this. Twenty years ago, people would not identify a classic muscle car as a clone - they would call it a fake. Since then, the concept has become more acceptable by calling them clones.

A tribute car, to me, is creating something unique that never existed. For example, I have a friend who built a 2005 GT350 tribute car. Ford/Shelby never built a GT350 on that platform, but the car honors the heritage of those original vehicles. I know another member at that forum who made himself a beautiful 2005 Mach I (again, another model that does not exist on the S197 platform). The concept of a tribute vehicle can work extrememly well on certain cars.

In terms of SSP's, a tribute car can quickly become what is called by many as a clown car. There is a thread on copcar.com (I would link it, but you have to be a member there to see it) where the police equipment in a 1962 Belvedere includes a computer keyboard and radar gun. I will attach those pictures to this post. Another example of clowning around would be to add additional lighting/LED's to a restoration on a car that never used them. That's why I suggested that the OP be as accurate as possible in the restoration if he builds it as a Alabama clone.

Putting on my Moderator hat for a moment, I would like to add that I appreciate the civil discussion on the subject matter. We may not all share the same opinion on certain subjects, but we do share a common passion for these cars and tend to treat others with respect when discussing things. I like that!