Three Unicorns I See On My Commute

How do you make an hour long commute less boring? Music only goes so far in breaking up the monotony, and in late July the only sports talk on the radio is about Deflategate. What works best for me is keeping my eyes open for these three unicorns that started popping up during my commute over the past few years. I don’t always see them, but spotting these unique cars during my drive is something I look forward to.

The Parked DeLorean DMC-12

The DeLorean is widely considered to be a not-so-great car, but I just can’t help to smile when I see one. Their fans are so devoted, and it brings back all the good memories of the “Back to the Future” films. The owner of the parked DeLorean, about ten minutes away from my place, puts the car outside on nice days for the world to see. I’ve never actually seen it on the road, but perhaps it’s because the flux capacitor needs to be recalibrated.

The owner, who I’ve never actually met, is obviously proud of the well-maintained DeLorean. Less than 10,000 of these things were produced, so I don’t blame him for showing it off.

An added benefit of this person’s DeLorean is that it’s a good way to tell what the weather will be like. If it’s likely going to rain later in the day, the car stays in the garage. It also stays indoors during the winter. When the weather begins to warm, the first sign of spring is seeing the car parked outside.

The Red 1967 Ford Mustang

When the Mustang came out back in 1964, competitors weren’t ready for it. The car was an enormous success with no real competition out there. The 1967 model was the first redesign and was bigger than the originals. I see an older gentleman driving his convertible 1967 Ford Mustang in the early morning during the warmer months. With his baseball cap and sunglasses on, he looks like a very happy driver. I don’t blame him.

I absolutely love the first generation Mustangs, and this car is no exception. It may not be a true “unicorn” but it sure is one you don’t see every day. Riding in a car like that daily is a great way to spend retirement. That guy is living the dream.

The Elusive Tesla Roadster

I know these things are more popular in well-to-do places like Los Angeles. Over here in Pennsylvania, however, they’re a whole lot rarer. I sometimes see this car on the way back home, although less often than the other cars (and only when it’s nice out). Even though the Roadster is already obsolete, this car turns more heads than any other I’ve seen on my drive. I’m not going to lie — I still stare when I see it. It’s just so unlike anything else I see on the road.

I have to hand it to the driver. Picking up Tesla’s first model is a bold move, even though I consider myself something of an early adopter. To go all-electric way back in 2009, especially considering the enormous six-figure price tag, isn’t something most people would do even if they could afford it.

So what about you? Do you see any unicorns on your daily drive? Let me know in the comments.