Note: Read through the entire opening post; there are several parts to the title question. First, a poll. I believe it's not possible to embed the poll in the text of the opening post, but if I could, it would go here. So, go there, if you want to participate in the public poll. Poll question: Do you think that roadsters are the best? Poll question with details: Do you think that roadsters are the quintessential (I didn't use this term in the poll because I'm not very fond of it, at this time) old car? I'm not putting my thoughts and opinions in the opening post. ---- Do you know the etymology of "roadster"? Press the first "spoiler" button to compare answers. Spoiler The term "roadster" originates in the United States, where it was used in the 19th century to describe a horse suitable for travelling. I'm thinking that another way to phrase that is: Spoiler "a horse that is good to take on the road," but I suppose that depends on if that term was commonplace, back then. I'm guessing that "-ster" is because "roader" doesn't sound right, so the "-st-" was added. But maybe that's just bias from usage of "roadster" and not "roader." There's also this from the Wikipedia page: Spoiler "Initially an American term for a two-seat car with no weather protection..." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadster_(automobile) --- Note: I might be post followup comments that are a continuation of this opening post. And/or I might decide to start another thread (I'll post a link in this thread, if I do) about roadsters that's similar (but different) and also has a poll question.
I think roadsters can look great, but I have had a couple with no top availability and found I used them less due to weather conditions. I also prefer the safety aspect of having a roof in the small possibility of a rollover…
It's hard to define the best. Consider French fries. Some people like Mickey Ds, some like Wendy's, and I'm sure there are many other that people consider the best. I'm building a roadster. But I'm also working on an ot mini. And my tastes in all things automotive range from brass era vehicles to relatively new 2 door sedans. And a lot of vehicles in between. And the only car I've ever had that if I could, I'd like to get back? A 1985 v6 4 speed Fiero. Talk about ot. But it was the most interesting, irritating, irrational and all of the other terms, car I've ever had. Go figure...
In my opinion nothing beats a 1932 1933 1934 ford 3 window or 5 window coupe. Even though I have a 28/29 ford roadster project.
When I think of early hot rods a roadster and a coupe of some sort almost always come to mind. For me, it's roadsters. Can't put the top down in a coupe!
Dang that spoiler button witchcraft is cool. Personally I think Taildraggers, lowriders and log trucks are the absolute best. Roadsters look great with the rear bumper bout to drag. you can tote a lot more people and parts in a school bus as well. Just saying
Solely on geographic location (above 42' N), I prefer a closed car that can be driven in inclement weather, stretching the season somewhat. Nothing against roadsters. I think everyone should have one...and a place in the ever rising sun. lol
I define a roadster as this because it’s the only one I’ve ever owned. Now a convertible is a totally different animal in my opinion.
I’ve got a 4x4 roadster. So does my son Removable windshield that folds down No roll up glass and a canvas top.
No! I'd give $100k for a basket case Willys coup before I'd give $1000 for a $100k immaculate roadster.
never had a roadster but rode motorcycles when I was younger, I'd say I would not enjoy a roadster out on the freeway unless I was wearing a helmet. not for safety, but the wind in my face would suck the fun out of it..
I built about 15 package steel deuce roadsters for customers for about 10 years starting in the early 2000's. Good money makers, quick to build. I had a theme and it worked. I'm looking at the pictures under the glass on my desk and I see 8 finished deuce roadsters I did for myself and I may be missing one or two? Roadsters for me have been both profitable and fun to drive and own. I rarely drive my current Henry highboy, getting old. Also I'm in the middle of one last Flathead powered deuce highboy roadster that when it's completely fit and finished to my standards and ready for paint and interior will be sold.
The term "roadster" is American slang. We all know that a roadster is a topless two seater car And A car with a non removable top is a coupe. So, is a car with two doors a coupe and a 4 door car a sedan? I've had both, roadsters and coupes. I prefer the coupe because I want to stay out of the sun and the rain. I prefer In-N-Out fries over any other because they're fresh peeled, sliced and fried on the spot.
There was a time when fenderless roadsters were the end all in the deuce game for me. The three window hiboy was "it" when talking deuce coupes, now, the full fendered five window is what really gets my attention, especially when it has the perfect stance . I don't recall what year it was but I'll never forget seeing Gary Kesslers' yellow scooter in a magazine the first time. The real memorable moment was when I actually witnessed a hiboy roadster going down the interstate (at speed), my older brother was driving but wouldn't speed up to get a closer look, it was some distance ahead but there was no mistaking what it was with the back end up high and those big rear tires, it just seemed "other worldly" to me. I think it's this shot of the Kessler roadster that sparked this kids' desire to have a deuce hiboy roadster one day.
I know the roadster pony class at the fair is flashy, fun and a little unruly. Ponies that don’t make the big time are always welcome in the roadster class.
Finally had to sell my Zipper after 24 years as it was difficult to get in and out of at 82 years old
Hardtop all the way. Too cold in the fall and spring. Too much sun in the summer. Rarely ever comfy unless you’re traveling in the early morn or late evening. Just like topless woman. You only see that in private and rarely in public. Roadsters are good to look at but I never enjoyed them on the road.
Roadsters were simpler, lighter and easier to deal with back in the early days and many race associations only allowed roadsters in competition. I love roadsters but can't see myself loading up in one to head to Texas for Lonestar and To Visit the sisterinlaws.
It's a love/hate deal........ Try a convertible first....At least that's a start........ You have to be in it for the long haul, or get back on the porch...........
Yes, no, maybe. Had one for 30 years, Got so it killed my hip joint to drive it. Sold it. Got another. Duh. https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...a-cure-yessir-see-below-update-6-aug.1284263/
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