I have been following the discussions on Larry Lobel's Ampico-Yamaha
project with some interest.  Perhaps I could provide a similar example
from my other interest, steam locomotives.

I, along with a couple of hundred other enthusiasts, belong to the
6024 Preservation Society.  We own and maintain to mainline standard
a 1927 "King" class engine that operates across all major network
regions in the UK.

At the last overhaul, it was clear that operating routes for our
engine were becoming more and more restricted due to tighter bridge
clearances, fewer watering points, and electrification of the network,
quite apart from fitting in with an ever-increasing flow of regular
traffic.

To overcome some of the more serious operating problems it was
therefore decided to modify the loco by  making certain alterations
to the height.  The chimney was lowered.  The safety valve was reduced
in size.  The footplate canopy was remodelled.  Additional mechanical
changes proved necessary.

What a furore!  Sacrilege!  Desecration!  It won't look like a real
"King" any more!

The cries were endless, and were mostly from people outside the society
who had no financial or other commitment to our cause.  But our loco
is still working today, and giving endless pleasure to thousands of
people.

It seems to me that there are two types in this world: those who
pontificate in the name of art and aesthetics, and the pragmatists
who get stuck and try something in the genuine hope (and realistic
expectation) of worthwhile improvement.

Am I being unfair?

Roger Waring
Solihull
England