A 1964 Mercury Comet That Defied Time
For Rachel Veitch, age is just a number—both for herself and for her beloved car, a 1964 Mercury Comet Caliente affectionately named Chariot. At 89 years old, Rachel has clocked over 540,000 miles on her car, an extraordinary feat made even more remarkable by the original engine still powering her pride and joy. Their story is one of determination, clever frugality, and an enduring bond.
The Beginning of an Unbreakable Bond
Rachel purchased Chariot brand new in 1964 for $3,289, outfitted with top-of-the-line features for its time, including power steering, automatic transmission, and air conditioning. Little did she know this car would outlast her three marriages and become her most steadfast companion.
“She’s never lied to me, never cheated on me, and I can always depend on her,” Rachel says with a smile, emphasizing the car’s unwavering reliability.
The Secret to Longevity: Lifetime Warranties
From the start, Rachel saw Chariot as a lifelong investment. She wisely opted for parts with lifetime warranties, a decision that has saved her thousands of dollars over the decades.
- Mufflers: Rachel has used the warranty for seven replacements.
- Shocks: Three sets have been replaced through Sears’ lifetime guarantee.
- Batteries: With sixteen free replacements from J.C. Penney and installation by Firestone, Rachel’s savvy planning has paid off in spades.
Her dedication to regular maintenance and smart purchasing decisions have ensured that Chariot remains as roadworthy as ever.
Rachel’s Solo Adventures
Rachel is the epitome of independence. She recently drove solo to her 70th high school reunion in Pennsylvania, a round trip of 3,225 miles. For many, driving alone in a nearly 60-year-old car might seem risky, but Rachel finds freedom in the journey.
“I don’t want anybody to wait on me or wait for me. I go when I please and do as I please. If I see a road, I’ll take off—I don’t even know where it goes, and I don’t care. I just want to find out.”
Rachel also comes prepared for any situation, proudly showcasing her concealed weapons permit as a symbol of her readiness.
A Hands-On Passion for Mechanics
Rachel doesn’t just love her car; she knows it inside and out. From identifying the generator to explaining the cruise control, she has a deep understanding of Chariot’s mechanics. When her car goes in for service, she stays by its side or provides mechanics with a detailed diagram showing exactly where lubrication is needed.
“You have to educate them,” Rachel says, a testament to her hands-on approach to vehicle care.
What If Chariot Stops Running?
Rachel’s daughter once joked, “We’d soon be burying my mother,” if Chariot ever gave out. But neither Rachel nor Chariot seems ready to quit. Together, they’ve traveled a distance equivalent to going to the moon and back—and they’re still going strong.
Watch the Full Story on Growing Bolder
Rachel’s incredible journey with Chariot has been beautifully captured by Growing Bolder here. Click below
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