THE ORIGINALS

The US turned the coupé into a true trendsetter, with sporty and chic styles to impress and even seduce. The car symbolised fun times and the American dream — if you were driving a coupé you had arrived. In 1963 the Beach Boys had a hit with Little Deuce Coupe, which celebrated the favourite of West Coast hot rod culture — the ’32 Ford Coupe. Then in 1973, the classic car was again celebrated in American Graffiti, directed by George Lucas, in which it was the star of the show.

An obvious passion for coupés can be seen at any local car show. They are often American, powered by large audible V8s, lovingly restored, and colourful and chromed — all part of the booming restomod culture.

THE ORIGINALS

Thanks to Central Otago’s dry climate it’s no surprise to find that Wanaka couple Jim and Daphne Ledgerwood are steadily developing an incredible collection of amazing coupés. ‘The Originals’ they have are as per factory new condition, and their aim is to keep them for everyone to see how it was done back in the day — pure nostalgia.

An occasional email from Jim usually reveals another gleaming addition. The collectors also have an impressive display of American pickups. It’s our gain