Full-sized personal luxury cars are an American tradition, and Richard Ellison's Tennessee-based '66 Sport Fury is a prime example of the breed. The full-size car was every car company's flagship in the '60s, and Plymouth was no exception. Big cars got the best of everything -- the most powerful engines (well, except for the Hemi, but that's a different story), the nicest interiors and the best-dressed exteriors. They exemplified success, power and luxury.

Richard tells us he test-drove a Sport Fury back in '66. Even though the big cars weren't considered muscle cars, he says it was hard to convince him since his test-driver was powered by the new-for-'66 440 engine, Hurst-shifted 4-speed transmission and a Sure-Grip limited slip axle. Unfortunately, his budget was more suited for Belvederes and Valiants than Sport Furys, so he wasn't able to get what he really wanted. Until 1995, that is.

Before Richard got the Plymouth, it languished out in the weather for some 15 years after its original owner passed away. The car was headed for the crusher when an Air Force pilot saved it. The pilot performed some basic mechanical repairs to get the car running, and then sold it to Richard, who says it was little more than a pile of rust and rotted fabric. After some 2 years of hard work, the Sport Fury once again takes its rightful place at the top of the automotive food chain. Congratulations, Richard, good things do come to those who wait. And by the way, we agree entirely that big cars are cool.

Since they make such good hot rods, finding a nice, original Nova can be difficult these days. But if you happen to be Andy Crehore, all you have to do is look in your garage. Andy and his father-in-law, Paul Pentecost, spent three years restoring the '71 model.

After two years of hard work and lots of understanding from his wife, Michigan's Pat Shripka has a '67 Chevelle to be proud of. Now that the red, SS396 4-speed car is finished, he's looking for another project. Do yourself a favor, Pat, let the wife pick the next one.

What's missing here? Your car, of course. Send us a couple of shots of your ride, and you might just see it in a future issue. Mail your contributions to: Restoration Review Muscle Car Show, 4820 Hammermill Rd., Tucker GA 30084. Be sure to include written permission for us to use the photographs.

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