The other car I looked at that day was a fully equipped 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible with Continental kit for $375. I chose the Chrysler. I spent the $20 extra. Being broke makes one spend money wisely. I had the cash because I sold my 1954 Ford Skyliner for $400 just weeks before.
On the trip to Texas, the most frequently song played on the radio stations was: "Sounds Of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel. Although it was looked down upon by club purists for the pink paint job and lack of originality and authenticity, it did have a public impact. The movie studio used it in the Santa Claus Lane Parade down Hollywood Blvd. in 1975 when they announced the new release of the second generation of Pink Panther movies. I chauffered the Pink Panther, and he was interviewed on TV. Shortly after, I drove Los Angeles pitcher Don Sutton [Grand Marshall] in the Anaheim Christmas Parade.
On July 4, 1976 the car was used to transport Congressman Jerry Vannaman in the Huntington Beach parade to celebrate America's 200th birthday. During those years I had American flag replicas painted on the hood and deck lid, and it has been used in several July 4 parades. A local July 4 parade on 2003 is when I ruined the engine, and have not driven the car since. Running on unleaded fuel with a 10.5 compression ratio burned three exhaust valves. Disassembled it for restoration, and have not finished it yet.