[Unicorn123]

Esteemed writers...

I have been wrapped up in coronavirus related "holding our business together" and "protecting our Team from getting sick" crises for the last two months and have spent little time visiting the forum. As an "Engineer" but not really an "Engineer" so I am told (Materials Science and Engineering), this has been a great thread to read. Thanks, Shovelman. Can't dig a ditch without you, man!

The best gift my Dad ever gave me was the gift of not allowing me the car I wanted (and had saved to buy) when I was 16 (Camaro Vert 1969, Big Block / 4 speed), but a FIAT 850 Sport Coupe. 903cc's of rear engine fun wrapped in ~1400# of questionable structural integrity, and in my case, significant corrosion from snowy PA roads. Although painfully slow (I did hit an indicated 100mph on a downhill on I-81 in VA with a 40 mph tail wind, once), it was peppy to drive (especially with the self modified carb and header from JC Whitney) and taught me more about vehicle dynamics than any car likely could at a tender age. without killing myself. I actually enjoy driving my E36 328is as much as the M235, just in a different way, . There is a lot to be said for less power, especially for younger drivers who are not experienced. Driving an "under-powered" or "just right" car forces you to drive the car properly to get the most out of it. Although my M235 will be in my garage for many years and makes an excellent daily driver, I must admit that it is almost too easy to drive at ridiculous speeds and with the right tires, corner and brake quite capably, beyond the abilities of many. My two cents...