50 Ultimate Collector Sports Cars: The Definitive Guide

Hey car enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of collector sports cars? Buckle up, because we're about to explore 50 of the ultimate machines that have earned their place in automotive history. This isn't just a list; it's a journey through engineering marvels, design masterpieces, and the sheer thrill of driving. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a newbie dreaming of your first classic, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of a well-crafted car, this guide is for you. We'll be looking at iconic models, the factors that make them collector's items, and why they continue to captivate car lovers around the globe. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the world of collector sports cars. Understanding what makes a car a collector's item is crucial. It’s not just about age; it's about rarity, performance, design, and historical significance. Cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, and the Jaguar E-Type are prime examples. These vehicles represent a perfect combination of aesthetics, engineering excellence, and racing heritage. Their limited production runs, innovative features, and success on the track have cemented their status as highly sought-after collector cars. The investment potential is also a major factor. The value of these cars has often increased over time, making them not only a passion but also a tangible asset. This guide will provide insights into what to look for when evaluating a collector car, including checking its history, maintenance records, and originality of parts. We'll also cover the importance of proper storage and care to preserve the car's value and ensure its longevity. We'll also discuss the impact of market trends and auctions on the collector car world. Understanding the market dynamics, including the demand for certain models and the pricing trends, can help you make informed decisions whether you are buying, selling, or simply following the market. So, whether you're a seasoned collector, an aspiring enthusiast, or just curious about the allure of these magnificent machines, join us as we explore the world of collector sports cars. Get ready to discover why these vehicles are more than just cars – they are rolling pieces of art, embodiments of passion, and symbols of automotive excellence.

Understanding Collector Car Criteria

Okay, guys, let's break down what really makes a sports car a collector's dream. It's not just about being old or expensive; there's a whole checklist involved. We're talking about things like rarity, historical significance, design, and performance. Let's dive deeper! Rarity is key, and it plays a huge role in the value of any car. Limited production numbers often make a car more valuable. Think of cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO, with only a handful ever made. It's the scarcity that fuels the collector market. These cars are incredibly difficult to find, and owning one puts you in an exclusive club. The historical significance is another huge factor. Does the car have a story? Did it win races? Was it driven by a famous person? Cars like the Ford GT40, which dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans, are prime examples. Their racing pedigree adds layers of value and prestige. The design itself is important too. A car's aesthetic can make all the difference, and it has to be timeless and beautiful. The Jaguar E-Type is one of the most stunning cars ever designed, and its iconic look is a huge part of its appeal. Performance is also critical. Collector cars need to drive well and have that performance factor that enthusiasts crave. The engine, the handling, the speed—it all needs to be up to snuff. Cars such as the Porsche 911 have continuously evolved over the years, becoming known for their incredible performance capabilities. The car's historical context is also essential; was it a game-changer when it was released? Did it introduce new technologies or set a new standard in the automotive industry? Collector cars are often pioneers. A car's story can boost its value considerably. The original owner, any races it might have competed in, and any famous drivers are all significant factors. A car's history is about the connection to the past, and it can add a deep emotional value. Originality is important too. A car that has been maintained and preserved in its original condition will typically have more value than one that has been modified or restored with non-original parts. We'll explore these aspects in more detail, sharing our insights so that you can navigate the world of collector cars with confidence. Remember, the world of collector cars is full of history, performance, and beauty.

Rarity and Limited Production

Alright, let's talk about the big one: rarity. In the collector car world, fewer is definitely better! The fewer cars of a particular model that were ever made, the more valuable they tend to become. Think about it – if there's only a handful of a car in existence, the demand goes through the roof. This scarcity drives up prices and makes these cars highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Limited production creates exclusivity. Limited production often creates a higher status among owners. When a car has a short production run or a very low total output, it automatically becomes more appealing to collectors. The rarity factor is often a significant portion of its value. Some manufacturers purposely limit production to increase exclusivity and preserve value. For example, cars that were only produced for a year or two or even in small batches are extremely rare. The fewer the cars out there, the harder they are to find, and that makes them even more desirable. Collectors are always on the hunt for these unicorns. In contrast, mass-produced cars, although they may be vintage, rarely command the same high prices as those made in very limited quantities. The value of collector cars can fluctuate. Knowing which cars are limited production models and which ones are not can help a collector make smart decisions. The value of these limited-production models will often go up. Keep an eye on market trends to identify vehicles that are likely to increase in value.

Historical Significance and Pedigree

Let's talk about historical significance. This is where the car’s story really matters. A car with a rich racing heritage, a groundbreaking design, or a connection to a significant historical event is bound to be more appealing to collectors. A car's history gives it a soul. If a car has a racing pedigree, that adds layers of excitement and prestige. Cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO or the Ford GT40 are icons because of their racing success. These cars didn't just win; they dominated. A car's victory is often a part of the history, and it greatly increases its value. Think about the legacy of Porsche in motorsports. Their multiple wins and innovations over the years have made Porsche a symbol of performance and engineering excellence. The design plays a part too. A car's design can make it a lasting icon. The Jaguar E-Type is a perfect example. Its sleek lines and distinctive features have made it one of the most beautiful cars ever built, and its design has cemented its place in automotive history. Knowing the historical context of a car is essential, and any connection to a famous driver or significant historical event will add to its desirability. Cars with a story often increase in value over time. They are not just cars; they are artifacts of a past. Having this background will enable you to appreciate each vehicle.

Design and Aesthetics

Now, let's get into the looks, guys! Design and aesthetics are key in the collector car world. A car's design must have a timeless appeal. A beautiful car will always catch attention. The lines, the curves, and the overall shape must be eye-catching. The Jaguar E-Type is a testament to this, as its stunning design has made it a timeless classic. A car's aesthetic must resonate with enthusiasts and potential collectors. The impact of a car's visual appeal extends beyond its beauty. A car’s design can also have a functional aspect. The design reflects the car's performance capabilities. Design and aesthetics are essential. A car's beauty contributes significantly to its desirability and value. Cars that continue to turn heads decades after their release are the ones that endure in the collector market. The car's design has a big impact on a collector's choices. A well-designed car often has a sense of timeless elegance. Cars like the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing have a distinctive design, and their unique features make them highly valued by collectors. Whether it's the sleekness of a classic Italian sports car or the boldness of an American muscle car, the design is a deciding factor. The materials and craftsmanship also play a role. Premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship enhance the car's aesthetics. High-quality interiors and attention to detail add to the overall appeal. When assessing a car's collector value, design plays a central role. The design reflects the spirit of the era. The best collector cars are those that combine stunning aesthetics with innovative design features.

Performance and Engineering

Alright, let's talk performance! It's not just about looking good; these cars need to move! Performance and engineering are super important to the collector car world. The engine is at the heart of the performance, and it's what gives a car its power and character. High-performance engines, whether they're V8s, inline-sixes, or something more exotic, are highly desirable. The engineering behind these engines showcases innovation and craftsmanship. When it comes to performance, you'll need handling and braking too. A car's ability to handle corners and stop quickly is essential. The suspension systems, brakes, and overall chassis design influence its handling characteristics. Collector cars that offer exceptional performance are always in demand. Look at the Porsche 911, famous for its excellent handling. Innovation is also a key factor. Cars that introduced new technologies or features, such as advanced suspension systems or fuel injection, are often highly valued. These innovations can revolutionize the automotive world, increasing performance and setting new standards. This combination of performance and engineering creates an exciting driving experience. The collector cars that deliver an exhilarating driving experience are the ones that enthusiasts crave. The collector market appreciates cars that excel on both the road and the track. When assessing a collector car, always consider the engineering and the car's performance capabilities.

Top 50 Collector Sports Cars

Okay, here we go, guys! Here's our list of 50 ultimate collector sports cars. Get ready for some automotive eye candy!

Ferrari 250 GTO: The holy grail of collector cars. Limited production, racing pedigree, and breathtaking design make it a top pick. This car’s value continues to soar, making it an excellent investment. The Ferrari 250 GTO is an excellent example of performance. Its racing legacy adds a ton of value. Owning a 250 GTO is a symbol of prestige. The GTO's design is classic. It has an iconic silhouette. Its racing success has made it a legend. The Ferrari 250 GTO is a must-have for any serious collector. The car is still very valuable. This car embodies the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design. The 250 GTO is a true masterpiece. This car is the ultimate collector sports car.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing: Its iconic gullwing doors and innovative design make this a timeless classic. A blend of style and engineering excellence. Its value will always stay high. The Gullwing's unique doors are its trademark. It has a beautiful aesthetic and performance. Owning a 300SL Gullwing is a symbol of prestige. This car combines luxury and performance. Its history adds to its value. The 300SL Gullwing is a symbol of automotive elegance. The 300SL Gullwing is a great investment. This car has a lasting value. The Gullwing is a symbol of innovation.
Jaguar E-Type: Known for its stunning design and performance. An icon of British engineering. Its timeless beauty makes it a collector's favorite. It is an amazing car. The E-Type’s design is a work of art. The car still looks amazing. Its performance is incredible. The Jaguar E-Type is a true icon. The E-Type's iconic status is guaranteed. It is an amazing and lasting design. The Jaguar E-Type is a must-have for any collection. It combines performance and beauty.
Porsche 911 (various models): A legendary sports car with a rich history. Exceptional handling and performance, with numerous collectible versions. Each model offers different performance. Porsche has a strong racing history. The 911 is known for handling and performance. There are many different variations. It is a true driver's car. The 911 is a symbol of performance and reliability. The 911 is a perfect car to collect. It represents Porsche's legacy.
Ford GT40: A racing legend that dominated Le Mans. Its performance and racing heritage make it a highly desirable collector car. The GT40's racing success speaks volumes. The GT40 is an icon. The GT40’s design is iconic. This car has racing history. It is a symbol of American racing excellence. It is always a good investment. The GT40 is a great collector car. The Ford GT40 is a legend.
Aston Martin DB5: Famous for its role in James Bond. Its elegance and performance are top-notch. Its association with Bond makes it special. Its timeless design has made it famous. This car is an icon. It is a symbol of British luxury. This car is a classic. It has a high value. The DB5 is a great addition to any collection.
Ferrari Testarossa: An iconic car of the 80s, known for its side strakes and powerful engine. This is an 80s icon. Its design is memorable. It represents Ferrari’s legacy. The Testarossa is a great collector car. This car has a high value. It is a symbol of performance. It's a great car to collect.
Lamborghini Miura: A groundbreaking car with a mid-engine layout and striking design. It has a unique design. The Miura is a symbol of innovation. It has a high value. This is a very cool car. It has a strong historical significance. The Lamborghini Miura is a must-have.
Shelby Cobra: A powerful car with a blend of American muscle and British engineering. It's an iconic car. The Shelby Cobra has a rich history. This is a powerful car. It is a symbol of performance. It is a highly sought-after car. It has a very high value. This is a great collector car.
Ferrari F40: A raw, exhilarating supercar known for its performance and racing pedigree. It is a powerful car. Its performance is great. The Ferrari F40 is an icon. This car is sought after. It is a symbol of speed. It is a great collector car. The F40 has a rich history.
Mercedes-Benz 190SL: A stylish roadster known for its elegance and classic design. The Mercedes-Benz 190SL has style. Its design is classic. It has high value. It is a symbol of elegance. The 190SL is a collector's dream. It's a beautiful car.
Porsche 356: The car that launched Porsche's legacy, known for its simple design and excellent handling. The 356 has a simple design. It is a great collector car. This car has amazing handling. It's a symbol of Porsche's early success. The 356 has a rich history.
AC Cobra (various models): A powerful sports car with a great blend of British and American engineering. The AC Cobra is powerful. The AC Cobra has a rich history. This car is exciting. It is a symbol of performance. It is a great collector car. The AC Cobra is a legend.
BMW 507: A rare and beautiful roadster known for its elegant design and exclusivity. The BMW 507 is rare. Its design is elegant. It is a symbol of exclusivity. The BMW 507 is a great collector car. It has a high value. The 507 is a beautiful car.
Ferrari 275 GTB: A classic Ferrari known for its elegant design and excellent performance. The 275 GTB is classic. The 275 GTB has performance. This is a beautiful car. It is a symbol of elegance. It is a great collector car. The 275 GTB is iconic.
Lamborghini Countach: A revolutionary car with a striking, futuristic design. The Countach is futuristic. The Countach has a striking design. It is a symbol of innovation. It is a great collector car. The Countach is a legend. The Countach is iconic.
Aston Martin DB4: A beautiful car known for its elegant design and performance. The Aston Martin DB4 is elegant. Its design is amazing. This car has performance. It is a great collector car. The DB4 has high value.
Ferrari Dino 246 GT: A mid-engine sports car known for its beautiful design and handling. The Dino 246 GT is beautiful. Its handling is great. This is a special car. The Dino 246 GT is iconic. It is a great collector car. The Dino has high value.
Maserati Ghibli: A stylish grand tourer known for its Italian design and performance. The Maserati Ghibli is stylish. It has Italian design. It has performance. The Maserati Ghibli is a great car. It has high value.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA: A lightweight performance car known for its racing heritage. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA is lightweight. It has racing heritage. This car is iconic. It is a great collector car. The GTA has high value.
Lancia Stratos: A rally legend known for its innovative design and performance. The Lancia Stratos is a rally legend. The Stratos has innovative design. It has great performance. It is a great collector car. The Stratos is iconic.
Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7: A high-performance 911 known for its lightweight design and racing capabilities. The 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is high-performance. It is lightweight. This car can race. The 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is a great car. It has high value.
McLaren F1: A groundbreaking supercar known for its advanced technology and performance. The McLaren F1 is groundbreaking. It has advanced technology. This car has performance. The McLaren F1 is a great car. It has high value.
Bugatti Type 35: A historic race car known for its early success. The Bugatti Type 35 is historic. This car raced well. It has early success. The Bugatti Type 35 is a great car. It has high value.
Ferrari 288 GTO: A high-performance Ferrari known for its design and performance. The Ferrari 288 GTO has high performance. Its design is amazing. This car performs well. The Ferrari 288 GTO is a great car. It has high value.
De Tomaso Pantera: An Italian-American sports car known for its design and performance. The De Tomaso Pantera is Italian-American. Its design is great. This car performs well. The De Tomaso Pantera is a great car. It has high value.
BMW M1: A mid-engine sports car known for its racing heritage and performance. The BMW M1 is mid-engine. This car has racing heritage. It performs well. The BMW M1 is a great car. It has high value.
Lotus Esprit (various models): A stylish sports car known for its handling and design. The Lotus Esprit is stylish. Its handling is great. The Lotus Esprit's design is amazing. The Lotus Esprit is a great car. It has high value.
Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II: A high-performance sedan known for its racing success. The 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II is high-performance. It has racing success. The 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II is a great car. It has high value.
Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer: A flat-12 engine car known for its performance and design. The 512 Berlinetta Boxer has a flat-12 engine. Its performance is great. The design is great. The Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer is a great car. It has high value.
Jaguar D-Type: A Le Mans-winning race car known for its speed and design. The Jaguar D-Type won Le Mans. Its speed is amazing. The D-Type design is great. The Jaguar D-Type is a great car. It has high value.
Porsche 959: A technologically advanced supercar known for its innovation. The Porsche 959 is advanced. The Porsche 959 is innovative. The 959 is a great car. The 959 has high value.
Aston Martin DB4 GT: A lightweight, high-performance version of the DB4. The Aston Martin DB4 GT is light. It has high performance. The DB4 GT is a great car. The DB4 GT has high value.
Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona: A powerful Ferrari known for its design and performance. The 365 GTB/4 Daytona is powerful. Its design is amazing. It has high performance. The Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona is a great car. It has high value.
Lamborghini Jalpa: A mid-engine sports car. The Lamborghini Jalpa is mid-engine. This is a cool car. The Jalpa is a great car. The Jalpa has high value.
Maserati Khamsin: A grand tourer. The Maserati Khamsin is a grand tourer. The Khamsin is iconic. The Khamsin is a great car. The Khamsin has high value.
Alfa Romeo 8C 2900: A pre-war sports car known for its advanced technology. The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 is pre-war. This car has advanced technology. The 8C 2900 is a great car. The 8C 2900 has high value.
Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada: A high-performance sports car known for its design. The Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada is high-performance. Its design is great. The 5300 GT Strada is a great car. The 5300 GT Strada has high value.
Iso Grifo: A grand tourer. The Iso Grifo is a grand tourer. This is an Italian classic. The Iso Grifo is a great car. The Iso Grifo has high value.
Porsche 917: A race car. The Porsche 917 is a race car. It is a legend. The 917 is a great car. The 917 has high value.
Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione: A racing car. The Ferrari 288 GTO Evoluzione is a racer. The Evoluzione is a great car. The Evoluzione has high value.
McLaren M6GT: A race car. The McLaren M6GT is a racer. This is a legendary car. The M6GT is a great car. The M6GT has high value.
Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider: A beautiful roadster. The Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider is a roadster. It is a classic. The B24 Spider is a great car. The B24 Spider has high value.
Aston Martin DBR1: A race car. The Aston Martin DBR1 is a racer. This is a famous car. The DBR1 is a great car. The DBR1 has high value.
Jaguar XKSS: A street-legal race car. The Jaguar XKSS is street legal. This is a fast car. The XKSS is a great car. The XKSS has high value.
Ferrari 330 P4: A race car. The Ferrari 330 P4 is a racer. This is a Ferrari legend. The 330 P4 is a great car. The 330 P4 has high value.
Ford RS200: A rally car. The Ford RS200 is a rally car. This is a fast car. The RS200 is a great car. The RS200 has high value.
Bugatti EB110: A supercar. The Bugatti EB110 is a supercar. This is a legendary car. The EB110 is a great car. The EB110 has high value.
Pagani Zonda (various models): An exotic supercar. The Pagani Zonda is exotic. This is a cool car. The Zonda is a great car. The Zonda has high value.
Koenigsegg CCXR: A high-performance supercar. The Koenigsegg CCXR is high-performance. This is a cool car. The CCXR is a great car. The CCXR has high value.

Factors Influencing Collector Car Value

Okay, guys, let's look at the important factors that make these cars valuable and that drive collector car values. Understanding these elements can help you evaluate a car's potential. Rarity is king! Limited production and a vehicle’s production numbers are one of the most important factors. Fewer cars mean more demand, and demand drives prices up. Rarity boosts value. Some models, such as special editions or limited-run cars, are particularly coveted. The fewer cars out there, the more appealing it is to collectors. A low production run will always result in a high value. Rarity is a key ingredient in the recipe for collector car value. Originality is important too. A car's condition significantly affects its value. Cars that are in original condition, with all their original parts, generally command a premium. The market values cars in their original factory specifications. Collectors often prefer cars that have been well-maintained and preserved in their original condition. Modifications will be avoided. Any modifications or alterations, especially if they are not period-correct, may reduce the car's value. Preserving originality is key to maximizing a car's value. Historical significance boosts value. A car's history can add considerably to its value. Cars with interesting stories, such as those that were raced or owned by a famous person, are generally more valuable. Cars with racing pedigree often have higher values. Cars connected to key events in automotive history are also of great value. Cars that have unique stories can become highly sought after. Market trends fluctuate. The collector car market is dynamic, and demand changes over time. Understanding market trends, including which models are currently popular and which are rising in value, can help you make informed decisions. Collector car values can vary. The popularity of certain models can increase, and values follow suit. Tracking auction results and market reports provides information. Understanding market trends gives you an edge. Staying up to date helps with making the best investment.

Rarity and Production Numbers

Rarity is a crucial element. This can significantly influence the value of a vehicle. A car's production run determines its scarcity. The fewer models produced, the more valuable the car usually becomes. Rarity creates a sense of exclusivity and enhances a car's desirability. Think of models, such as the Ferrari 250 GTO. The value of these cars increases over time. Limited production runs generate high demand. Collectors are always seeking out rare and unique models. These models often command high prices at auctions. Special editions and limited-run cars are also highly sought. These models are designed to meet the growing demands. These vehicles are considered investments. Scarcity boosts values.

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Condition and Originality

Condition and originality are very important factors. The condition is essential to consider when valuing a collector car. Cars in excellent condition, whether it is original or restored, always have high value. A car's condition directly impacts its appeal and value. Collectors highly value cars that retain their original parts and features. Originality is a significant factor. Cars that remain in their original factory specification are very valuable. The cars in original condition typically command higher prices. Preserving a car’s original form is important. Originality ensures a car's value. Maintenance history and detailed records are important. Well-maintained cars often demonstrate their value. Careful preservation ensures that the car remains valuable.

Historical Significance and Provenance

Historical significance is one of the important factors in collector car value. A car's history can have a significant impact on its value. Cars with a rich racing pedigree, such as those that won races, are generally very valuable. If a car was once owned by a famous person, the value goes up. This connection creates a special appeal to collectors. The provenance provides a narrative. It is crucial to the car’s story. The more fascinating the car's story, the more valuable it becomes. The racing history of a car adds to the value. These cars are a piece of history. These vehicles are often displayed in museums and private collections. Cars that played a significant role in automotive history are highly sought. Historical significance boosts value.

Market Trends and Auction Results

Market trends and auction results are significant factors. The collector car market is always changing. The demand for specific models fluctuates. This can impact the value of a car. Staying up to date on market trends is crucial. Keeping an eye on auction results is a great strategy. Auction results show the demand for cars. Analyzing recent sales can give you information about market values. The value of collector cars can vary over time. The car's popularity and current market conditions can change. The popularity of a car can drive up prices. Monitoring these trends can give you insights into the market. This will help you make informed decisions when buying or selling collector cars. Always stay updated to make sound investment decisions. Stay informed about changing trends.

Tips for Buying and Collecting

Alright, you made it this far, so let's get you set up with some awesome tips for buying and collecting those beautiful collector sports cars. Here's some advice to get you started on the right foot!

Research and Due Diligence

Do your research! Before you start buying, understand the market. Check out auction results, read reviews, and talk to experts. Knowing your stuff will prevent you from making a mistake. Understand the market trends. The market is dynamic. You need to know what to look for. Research specific models you're interested in. Learn about their history and common problems. This knowledge will guide you. Do a detailed vehicle inspection before you make any purchase. Check for any previous damage. The car's history should be checked. This information will help you with your decisions. Review service records. This confirms a car's condition. Thorough research protects you.

Budgeting and Investment

Set a budget. Buying a collector car can be expensive. Establishing a budget can guide you. Consider insurance costs. Classic car insurance is different. Always consider maintenance costs. Collector cars require maintenance. Consider storage costs. Storing these cars will protect them. Remember that collector cars can appreciate. Collector cars can increase in value. They also can be great investments. Seek expert advice before making significant purchases. This will protect your investment. A good budget is essential.

Storage and Maintenance

Storage and maintenance are important! Protect your investment with proper storage. A climate-controlled environment is ideal. This is important for preserving the car. Regular maintenance is essential. Schedule routine servicing. Properly store the car to maintain its value. Keep the car maintained and protected. Following these tips keeps your car in top condition. Take the necessary steps to ensure your car is always in its top form. Good storage keeps a car safe. Proper maintenance preserves a car's value.

Networking and Community

Join the community. Connect with other collectors. Attend car shows. Network with experts and enthusiasts. Join car clubs. This is great for sharing information. Get to know local mechanics. Seek advice. The collector car community is supportive. You can share your passion with others. Build relationships with fellow enthusiasts. Build a network of contacts. This is important for buying, selling, and learning more. Enjoy the passion with others.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! We've covered a lot of ground today. From the iconic models to the factors that make them so valuable, you're now armed with the knowledge to start your own collector car journey. Remember, collecting cars is a passion. Enjoy the process, and make sure to do your research. And, most importantly, have fun with it! Keep an eye on market trends. Always invest in proper storage. Build a good network. Enjoy your passion, and enjoy the journey!