Total distance: 739.89 km (459.7 mi)
Total time: 9:19:00
Average speed: 79.41 km/h (49.3 mi/h)
Max speed: 122.40 km/h (76.1 mi/h)
Max elevation: 754 m (2474 ft)
After yesterdays longer then expected drive I spent some time changing my destinations and hotel reservations. Rather then the 9 hour (that became 12) drives I’m now shooting for 7 hours per day (that become 9).
It was nice to awake to warmish temps in Roanoke. Interstate 81 heading southwest was the first leg of todays trip. This is a particularly scenic area that includes the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Shenandoah Valley. I’ve driven in this area in both my GTV and Abarth and know how much fun the small roads around here are. This time I was stuck on the interstate but the views were still great.
In Tennessee I turned true west on I40. This road was a long slog with both traffic and hidden police speed traps seeking “donations” on every downhill where I’m finally able to get close to the speed limit.
Signs that I was finally inching towards the “west” were apparent in the form of the road kill – Coyotes crumpled along the shoulders of the interstate. It’s not something I’m used to seeing in the North East. Also, local fashion is quite different. Hunting camouflage pajamas are all the rage at the rest stops and gas stations!
The Giulia super on the trailer behind me gets plenty of attention – cell phone photos from passers in the fast lane and questions at the filling stations. Today I was asked several times “what kind of car is that?” I repeated over and over “Alfa” to a confused look – then understanding “Oh austin healey?”
“Austin Healey”? Well, still better than being confused with a Volkswagen like that guy in Wyoming did on our Three Men and a Giulia trip 😉