I do like that, and I like honest dings and such, though there are limits. I do believe in maintenance, both mechanical and cosmetic, continuing on in the normal way a car should be maintained. Change the oil, set the valves, wash the dam thing from time to time, and put some new tyres on it when they time out.

On the other hand, if it sat in a garage or a barn for years and mice have holed the seats, that ain't normal wear. That's damage and should be fixed.

I also believe some level of modification of a sports car is legit. My Spit and Midget have had their drive-trains breathed on a bit, suspensions uprated, the Spit has rally timing gear in it, the Midget has extra gages, but its all stuff I used to do when I was a young man to these very cars and is merely my contribution to their life's story.

And I drive 'em! No male costume jewellery here, no trophies, no trailers.