Jeff Herman Picture

Cars

1969 Road Runner

Jun 6th, 1971

After the unfortunate demise of my Mustang in an accident that wasn't my fault, I yearned for a vehicle more fitting for a teenager in the '70s. Enter the colossal V8 Roadrunner—a powerhouse that promised to elevate my status while cruising Main Street on the weekends.

It's a wonder how my parents endured two car-loving teenagers, but by the time I acquired my license, Bob had lost his. And by the time I became the proud owner of this Roadrunner, he had enlisted in the Marines. This car held a special place in my heart, embodying the thrill of racing the streets, the raw power of a V8 engine, the exhilaration of a stick shift, not to mention the allure of bucket seats and Aqua paint. What's not to love about this iconic piece of automotive nostalgia?

Graduation day

Check out my red hair!

Behold the perks of a sleek muscle car—it's a magnet for attention, especially from the fairer sex! Lori Joe Fredrickson, my high school sweetheart for about a year, looked absolutely stunning cruising in my '69 Roadrunner.

I couldn't help but wonder how she would have looked in the '57 Chevy, the VW Bug, or the Yellow Nova. It's safe to say Lori Joe wouldn't have been caught dead in any of those. This car attracted one of the most beautiful girls in our school—at least, that's how I saw it. Lori was the epitome of beauty and allure, and my Roadrunner only enhanced the experience of having her by my side.