FYI: Muscle car aficionado Coyote Johnson built an impressive collection of nearly 100 classic cars using a clever tactic, now obsolete, over almost five decades in Iowa.
A muscle car enthusiast from Red Oak, Iowa, has turned a hobby into what many would consider a dream collection of classic cars. Coyote Johnson meticulously spent nearly 50 years amassing nearly 100 prized muscle cars, a collection featuring iconic models like Dodge Chargers, Plymouth Barracudas, Chevrolet Impalas, and Corvettes.
### Crafting an Exceptional Collection
With patience and determination, Johnson gradually shaped his extraordinary collection over the years. Unlike today, where online marketplaces dominate the car trading landscape, Johnson employed a now-dated but effective tactic—scouring classified ads in newspapers. He keenly searched these pages for rare finds and hidden gems, a method reserved for the dedicated few, now fondly remembered from ‘back in the day.’
### A Clever Approach in a Bygone Era
Discussing his journey with the Des Moines Register, Johnson elaborated on how this approach helped him secure many valuable cars. In a time where finding a classic muscle car wasn’t as straightforward and widespread as an online search, this tactic offered unique opportunities to veteran car collectors.
“Back then, you really got your money’s worth by restoring and cherishing old classics,” shared Johnson, reflecting on a different period in auto enthusiast history. He also noted how dramatically the marketplace has shifted to a predominantly digital format, yet still holds potential bargains for those in-the-know and ready to act swiftly.
### Closing a Chapter, but Holding onto Memories
In 2019, Johnson decided to part ways with a significant portion of his collection, acknowledging how they had become more of a burden than a passion project. Although he chose to sell most of his cars, he held onto an emotional cornerstone of his collection—a 1969 Road Runner, the vehicle that ignited his lifelong love for muscle cars.
Johnson’s journey not only highlights a nostalgic approach to car collecting but also serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of muscle cars. While methods and marketplaces have changed, the thrill of finding and restoring a classic car is a tradition that continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
