The joy of driving

LEEANE MORRIS OPERATES JOHNNY WRAY’S CAFE AT WESTHAVEN WITH HER BROTHER NEIL

Tell us about your 1998 Chevrolet Silverado.

It’s a left-hand drive shortwheelbase 4.8L V8 beauty. I bought it privately from a friend of a friend who imported it with the view to keep it. However, he decided to sell it as he has another Silverado. It came from California where it was a university security patrol vehicle, so it has done low mileage and been looked after.

Why a Chevrolet Silverado? Have you always wanted an American V8?

I thought my next car was going to be a Camaro. My brother saw this at a car show and showed me a picture. I took it for a test drive that day and again the following day. It was so smooth to drive, has great visibility and is supercomfortable. I love the sound of it. I grew up with an older brother, David, always having American V8s and I appreciated them.

Is it expensive to run?

It’s cheaper than a Kenworth! I think it’s worth every dollar as I get so much joy driving it. I spend a lot of time driving to and from work so I may as well enjoy every moment of it.

Have you had to do much work to it?

Nothing and it requires no work.

How do you think this car fits your personality?

It’s reliable, fun and definitely has some “get up and go”.

How often do you drive it?

I drive it every day, everywhere.

Any other vehicles in your “garage”?

My Toyota Corolla that I’ve owned for 10 years, which is for sale.

What do you always keep in your Chevrolet, and why?

My doTERRA essential oils as they are a big part of my life.

Who else drives it?

My brother Neil, who I work with, will drive it from time to time but it’s mostly me.

If you had to describe your Silverado as a well-known person, who would you choose?

George Clooney. My Silverado is stylish, turns heads, is desired by many and gets better with age.

What was your first car?

My first car was a Chevette and I loved it. It was cool. I sold it to upgrade.

What do you plan to buy next if/when you sell this?

A Chevrolet Camaro, I’ve always loved them and I test drove one last year and was totally impressed.

What’s your dream car?

A Camaro and a Corvette. Both are so stylish and different to other cars on the road. And they sound amazing.

Do you have a favourite car scene from a movie?

I did see Once Upon a Time in Hollywood which is a Tarantino film set in 1960s. The cars used in this movie are just incredible and they are everywhere. Loved it.

Favourite driving songs?

That’s tough as I enjoy a range of music. The one thing I do need to upgrade in my Silverado is the sound system.

It’s a sunny Sunday morning: what’s a great day trip in this car?

A drive north to a beautiful beach with a fun friend with the view to relax in the sun, swim and sunbathe. We would take some great food, a couple of cold beers and be ready to talk rubbish with lots of laughter.

Best road trip so far in this vehicle?

I’ve only done one since I’ve had it and that was to visit my Mum and brother in Whangarei. They both loved it.

And how do you feel about technology and cars?

There is a place for everything although I’m not keen on driverless cars.