Upgrades on the Chevrolet Opala

It’s been quite some time since I started giving my beloved Opala a well-deserved overhaul. This loyal companion has been with me for no less than 25 years. The problem with being a car enthusiast (and accumulating a small fleet) is that every single one of them always has something that needs fixing. It’s like running a mechanical daycare: fix one’s issue, and another starts crying.

The Opala, for instance, had some classic issues of a car that doesn’t enjoy sitting idle: a broken hood cable and a burnt-out headlight. Fortunately, those problems have been resolved today. A point for my patience (and the nearest auto parts store).

Despite the repairs, the Opala is still in probation. I have a bold idea in mind: a road trip to the Northeast. I haven’t set dates, routes, cities, or states yet. In other words, the trip is a dream for next year, but for now, I’m content with short escapes and plenty of rides around Goiânia. And you know what? The car is still a joy to drive, the kind that puts a smile on your face just by starting the engine.

Now, one thing I haven’t done yet is calculate its fuel consumption average. After giving the engine a bit of a boost, the Opala is noticeably livelier, but that extra joy under the right foot will surely come at a price at the pump. Well, who cares? Driving with excitement is priceless... or rather, it only has a price at the gas station.

For now, I’ll keep enjoying the roar of the engine, one gear at a time. 🚗💨

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