Just got back from test-driving a '57 444 with what may be the original drive train - a B14A & a 3 spd tranny. I'm leaning towards buying it but, as can be expected, it has some quirks. Body appears in good shape - typical rust areas have been treated (how well only time will tell), interior VG, chrome excellent. Odo shows 98K.

Here are the quirks:
- Should the B14A come w/only 1 carb or the twin SUs? This has the twins.

- Oil filter leaks; has inverted cannister. Easy fix?

- Carb problems, but realize could be from sitting long time or need of major overhaul; anyway to tell which?

- Here's the big one, never heard of this before. When starting from full stop the rear end will "hop" up & down with an accompanying "bang" coming from the rear. More intense the harder or faster you start off. Rear wheels stay on the ground throughout this. Really weird. Looked under car & couldn't see anything added or unusual. Std suspension, not raised or lowered. Anybody heard of such a thing?

Any comments appreciated. Thanks.

Cal