He says he gets 23 highway. I imagine that car with its original engine would have gotten less than 20 depending on transmission and rear diff.

Other than that though, he may love simplicity which a flathead six has in spades, and serviceability.

__________________
[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.