Zephyr Mk III gets pride of place

The 1963 Ford Zephyr Mk III still rocks. Photo / Jacqui Madelin

What is it
This 1963 Ford Zephyr Mk III has been beautifully restored and painted for its regular role as a Ford ambassador on the annual Variety Club Bash to raise money to help disabled and disadvantaged children to be "the best they can be".

The Herald on Sunday was at the wheel for two legs of this year's Bash, which finished yesterday.

We appreciated its upgraded suspension for improved corner control, and a new clutch to ease gear changes with the four-speed column shift.

And we love that rorty six-cylinder engine and its after-market accessories - such as the white clothes peg used to hold the choke out during the lengthy daily warm-up.

The Bash cars are may be parked up now, but you can still help the Christchurch kids who are this year's beneficiaries: go to varietynz.org.nz to donate an hour's pay.

We like
Charity doesn't have to be boring; Bashers make folk laugh as they tour the country, helping disadvantaged kids. We also like the Zephyr, with its furry seat covers, fake-granite dash and flashing lights.

We loathe
Those who tried to put a cigarette in the Zephyr's collection bucket. Just thank your stars it's not your kids in need.