SP Rides: Committed
by Michael Kitchens
David Matsumiya is a special kind of a guy. This 1985 Chevrolet Camaro is a special kind of car. In a word, they’re “committed” to each other. I don’t mean in the crazy-psycho kind of way, but in the “wow, that’s unbelievable” sort of way. David and his father purchased this car over 27 years ago. Brand spanking new, off-of-the showroom floor, this is the epic story of a “boy and his car”. Move over, Michael Bay, this is the real deal.
I meet plenty of people that love their cars, but for most, owning them is a transitory state. The cars come and go like money in a bank. It’s rare to see a one-owner vehicle that’s twenty years plus. It’s even rarer to see one that is in such incredible shape. This car is like black silk. The lines are smooth, classic, and the paint is immaculate. The interior is so spotless; it instantly transports you to a time when mullets and REO Speedwagon screamed they couldn’t fight this feeling anymore. I practically giggled when I opened the door to check it out.
This car’s state of affairs can be directly attributed to David’s simple love for his car. It is quite clearly a physical representation of his life and history. “My high school classmates can’t believe I still have this car.” Fostered by his dad, who wrenched on a 1970’s Nova from time to time, David grew to appreciate the automotive form. Further encouraged by a 1979 Camaro owned by his cousin, he received this gift that keeps on giving just six months before acquiring his driving license.
And so the journey began…high school came and went and college arrived with ideas a-plenty for David and his Camaro. Modifications came and went until he settled on the current iteration. Not one for flash, he abided by his father’s advice: “Make it look natural” when it came to modifications. The car features a make-over consisting of IROC components, including the front bumper, rear spoiler, and fog lamps. Rolling stock also features polished IROC aftermarket rims.
The original engine was eventually swapped out with an ATK 350 4-bolt truck engine for some extra ponies. Although already equipped with the F41 upgraded suspension package, David added various components including Eibach lowering springs, and an Energy Suspension bushing set to improve handling. Edelbrock arms and strengthening bars and a wonder bar were also added to help stiffen the chassis.
In many ways, a car can be an introduction into a huge, new world of experiences and this Camaro is just that. David has become in-grained in the local car and industry scene, and attends many shows with his fellow Camaro owners. As a member of 808 Camaros, David enjoys the camaraderie being a part of the automotive community brings.
In this world of constant consumerism, it’s quite refreshing to see such commitment from a dedicated car owner. He’s been asked many times to sell the car by interested buyers. All have been turned away. David knows every inch of this car like the back of his hand. “It’s been hit from the front, the back, the side, everywhere.” And yet here it sits, in beautiful, stunning form. That is simply amazing.
