garymilgrom

I don't want to debate whether our Corvettes are exotic cars. I think they are, and the ideas outlined below apply to us as owners. Reprinted from a post on NSX Prime. Joe has owned many different exotic marques. The last paragraph is especially appropriate and in my mind the reason I wave at all other Corvettes.

My personal code of conduct as an exotic owner
(© Copyright 1998, Joe Martz)

My cars will always be clean and well-presented. I will ensure that my cars are in the highest state of mechanical condition and maintenance. Exotics as indeed rare, and to see one is a special experience. I have an obligation to present these cars to others at a high standard.

I will always be polite, courteous, and friendly. I will not talk down to or ignore anyone, and I will cheerfully answer all questions. Exotic owners wrongly suffer from a "snob" label. By actively and always countering this, I will strive to change this perception among all whom I met.

Where feasible, I will encourage inspection and observation of my cars. If someone is clean and courteous, I will encourage them to sit in my cars. I will actively encourage photographs. In-particular, I will encourage this among younger children. On occasion, I will offer rides to admirers under the appropriate circumstances.

With one exception (see 5, below), I will obey all traffic laws or local traffic customs. Especially, I will pass other cars only in marked, safe passing zones, and I will always respect traffic speeds and noise ordinances within city limits. I will always drive in a defensive manner to protect myself and my vehicle. I will not initiate nor will I respond to challenges to race my cars on open public roads. When asked to race, I will positively comment on the challengers car and invite them to inspect mine at an appropriate stopping point, while asking if I might see their vehicle.

Operating my cars as Zora Arkus-Duntov and Dave Hill intended will occur only on open, rural routes free of heavy traffic or on appropriately designated race courses. On public highways, I will use my highest powers of observation and diligence to ensure that I place myself, my vehicles, and the public in no additional danger. I will be aware of the environment and road conditions, and I will not drive at excessive speeds on unknown or suspect roads. When approaching blind corners or hills, I will assume that an obstacle exists and will take appropriate defensive measures.

I will share my passion and excitement for exotic cars with others through community service and charitable events. I will actively seek out community organizations such as local police departments and schools and offer my cars for use in events such as DARE programs, homecoming parades, pep rallies, etc. Many communities have "Make a Wish" foundations for sick children. If given the opportunity, I will offer a day with myself and my cars to such organizations in an effort to brighten an otherwise trying life for someone less fortunate than I.

I will be honest and open with other enthusiasts, and I will accurately represent my cars to prospective owners and buyers. I will keep complete records, and I will always follow-up with purchasers of my cars to ensure that they continue to gain maximum satisfaction and appreciation for cars that I have owned and serviced.

I will always have a smile on my face when inspecting, driving, or showing my cars to others. I will never forget how fortunate I've been to own such automobiles and I will constantly remind myself that the future is uncertain, and that today may be as good as it gets.

ExRedRacer

Good post.

Bounty Hunter 6

Words to live by. Great post!

VetterGetIt

The part about not speeding around corners or hills is especially conducive to being an excellent driver and this is the same advice I always give the young teen and twenty-somethings I run across.

The rest of the rules are excellent as well, and I believe Vette owners should hold themselves to a higher standard, or we'll just be domestic ricers (with a LOT OF POWA )

JoshVette

DavesC5

Vetteman Jack

Nice list of do's and don'ts.

dunbindun(tov)

I'd like to think we all operate this way. Compared to the care I gave my then new Datsun (not Nissan) Z, age has taken its toll on me (no more daily washes).

DBD

Z06-JIM

Great set of rules, very cool!...

rcingram

ShooterMcgavin

teagueO

would like to copy with your permission to share with others.
Thanks!

garymilgrom

I think it's OK to duplicate just make sure you credit Joe. If you copy his copyright line you are fine.

c5chines

You left out: I will not put my expensive exotic car parts in the dumpster for a photo op. Chuck.

MyVetteDream

That's a great list....

I already subscribe to it

chocoholic

And what does any of that have to do with owning an exotic or even a Corvette?

It seem to me that you are saying that if one owns some other car than there is no need to drive with courtesy and due attention or have pride in the presentation of your vehicle. Sorry, but that's the kind of thinking that brings on the snob comments in the first place.

garymilgrom

Chocoholic:
I write "I like vanilla" and you read "I hate chocolate."

It was not my intent to say others don't need to be courteous etc. - just that exotic car owners are more visible than others by virtue of their vehicle, and should act accordingly.

LoftyC5

Just remove the word "Exotic" (some think snob). These are rules every car owner should live by.

sailohio

Driving a status symbol, we appear to be a little more well to do, successful and possess intelligence. We should exhibit that intelligence. But, does that mean I should slow down?

VetterGetIt

Any car not made outta sheet metal with a rear-mounted tranny for weight distribution plus the aerodynamics of a car that rivals the Euro exotics earns the title. People don't want to say exotic because it's not 150 thousand bucks.

The vette is a road-racer, world-class handling sports car, and I am a supporter for life.