Chrome Hearts: A Valentine’s Tribute to the Cars That Stole the Show
Valentine’s Day in Portland usually involves a nice dinner on Division Street or maybe a rainy stroll through Washington Park. But here at Heavy Metal Motors, we’re thinking about a different kind of love: the kind of protective love you feel when a classic car gets put through the crusher or dies in an explosion in an action movie, or the rush of lustful adrenaline when a legendary engine roars through the streets in a racing or spy film.
This year, we’re looking back at the "Sweethearts of the Streets"—those iconic cars from pop culture that we fell in love with over the decades.
1. The Soulful Classic: "Herbie" (1963 Volkswagen Beetle)
We may not be into European cars here at Heavy Metal Motors, but you can’t talk about car love without the original Love Bug. Herbie proved that you didn't need a massive V8 to have a massive heart. He was the underdog—a little rough around the edges (we can relate), prone to squirting oil on people he didn't like, but fiercely loyal.
Our Perspective: There’s a reason people still smile when they see a classic Bug puttering down Sandy Blvd. It’s pure personality on wheels. “Slug-bug!”
2. The Heart-Stopper: "Eleanor" (1967 Shelby GT500)
If Herbie is the cute high school crush, Eleanor from Gone in 60 Seconds is the one that got away. That Pepper Gray paint, the signature hood scoop, and the roar of that 428 engine... it’s enough to give any gearhead butterflies. She was temperamental, hard to handle, and absolutely breathtaking.
The Gearhead Note: Eleanor reminded us that some cars aren't just a way to get around; they’re an experience that requires respect and a steady hand.
3. The Hero: The 1969 Dodge Charger
Whether it was the General Lee flying over dirt mounds in The Dukes of Hazzard or a 1970 model being rebuilt by Dominic Toretto in a garage in The Fast and the Furious, the Dodge Charger is the ultimate symbol of American Muscle. It represents the "Blood, Sweat, and Gears" philosophy we live by. It’s loud, it’s heavy, and it’s impossible not to love.
4. The Dream Machine: Marty McFly's 1985 Toyota SR5 Xtra Cab Pickup
Forget the DeLorean for a moment. For many of us who grew up in the '80s, Marty McFly's black Toyota pickup was the real dream car. Lifted, shiny, and ready for adventure, it represented freedom and the ultimate cool factor. It was attainable, rugged, and perfectly set the scene for cruising down a sun-drenched road.
It’s less doted upon counterpart, the ‘78 Chevy Stepside in the opening scenes of Red Dawn is our favorite movie truck here at Heavy Metal Motors! That truck means business! And it’s just a trim package away from Heavy Metal Motors founder, Derek Rice’s daily driver!
Our Take: These trucks are still sought after! We've seen a few lovingly restored ones rolling through our shop. And for every fully restored square body we see, we see at least 5 or 6 with a nice patina finish that lets everyone know there’s love and history behind the faded paint.
5. The Dangerous Obsession: "Christine" (1958 Plymouth Fury)
If you believe in "love at first sight," look no further than Arnie Cunningham and Christine. This blood-red '58 Fury is the ultimate example of a car with a mind of its own. She was beautiful, jealous, and had the supernatural ability to repair her own dents. While we wouldn't recommend a car that tries to take out your rivals, you have to admire those iconic tailfins.
The Gearhead Note: Interestingly, the real 1958 Fury only came in "Buckskin Beige." The red and white look was purely for the movie—and it clearly worked, because it turned this "forgotten" model into a horror icon.
6. The King of the Circuit: Milner’s Deuce Coupe (1932 Ford)
In American Graffiti, Paul Le Mat’s yellow deuce coupe wasn't just a car; it was the king of the streets. It was loud, chopped, and built for one thing: being the fastest car in the valley. It represents that era of DIY spirit where you spent every Saturday under the hood making it your own.
Our Take: That yellow '32 is the reason many of us got into wrenching in the first place. It’s a reminder that with enough grit and grease, you can turn a used Ford into a legend!
A Love That Lasts (Through the seasons)
Here in Portland, loving a classic car takes commitment. Between the moisture and the hills, keeping these legends on the road is a labor of love.
At Heavy Metal Motors, we don't just see a "job" when a classic pulls into the bay. We see a piece of history and a member of someone's family. We’re here to make sure your "automotive sweetheart" stays reliable, safe, and ready for your next weekend drive out to the coast—without the dealership price tag. We believe in honest work, transparent pricing, and treating our customers like neighbors!
What car did you first fall in love with? Leave a comment below or stop by the shop and tell us the story—we’d love to hear it!
