Whether there’s a need for parts for a project car or just enjoyment from car spotting, there’s something from everyone in a new YouTube video from Jerry “Metal Man” Battaglia. His latest automotive adventure explores a Long Island, New York, junkyard teaming with vehicles mostly from the 1980s and 1990s. While technically many of these fall under the classic car banner, it’s up to the beholder if these now-sad hulks are worthy of the designation.
For whatever reason, this location is heavy with General Motors trucks and vans. Still, the eagle-eyed observer fond of Mopar or Blue Oval rides will find something to appreciate. Oddly enough, the most restorable car in the video is a British vehicle from almost a century ago.
It’s Not All About American Pickup Trucks
One of the first vehicles that Battaglia points out is a once-noble Oldsmobile Cutlass resting on top of a Chevrolet pickup. The protruding back end and pale yellow exterior hint this is a fourth-generation Cutlass, but other specifics are lacking. Interestingly, it’s one of the few passenger cars in the video; most everything else is SUVs and vans.
The sight of these stacked vehicles reminds Battaglia of his childhood days spent in a family-owned junkyard. His reminiscing gets quickly replaced by enthusiasm for what’s ahead.
A Throwback To American Pickup Trucks
About a third of the way through the video, Battaglia walks past a mound of trucks that serves as a monument to working vehicles from Detroit. Resting on top of the heap is either a Chevrolet or GMC square body pickup, accompanied by a newer GM truck in the foreground.
Meanwhile, the remnants of a Ford Econoline chassis cab truck give the Blue Oval a presence. However, the most striking image comes from the front end of a 1990s Dodge Ram. It’s missing a fender and headlight but reminds viewers that this big-hauler design helped re-establish a Mopar presence in the pickup market.
An Out-Of-Place Morris Ten Four
One of the more interesting finds from Battaglia’s latest junkyard adventure is a 1930s-era Morris Ten Four, a classic British import complete with a right-hand-drive configuration. The “Ten” refers to the ten-horsepower engine, while the “Four” signals a four-speed transmission.
Its curved exterior, wire wheels, and tall greenhouse starkly contrast with the nearby rusting hulks from a half-a-century later. Despite a bit of body corrosion, this Morris appears to be waiting for a chance to hit the streets again. According to the owner, the car still runs but needs brake work. One of the more unusual features is a hood ornament with a built-in temperature gauge.
It just shows that even a junkyard filled with American pickup trucks might have a surprise or two
