Salt on the roads

in line 4 convertiable 50,000 miles and no damage or rust but its a FORD

Sounds perfect! You probably wont need to worry about snow too often where you are so RWD is presmuably a non issue... but having an alternative to exposing the Barracuda to salt is a great move.

The fact that it's a 4cyl is good news, IMO. It means that you aren't using another automotive treasure for a daily beater.

Anyone who gives you crap about your Ferd (aka Ford ;) ) needs to grow up.

I have a Mustang in the garage right next to my Dart. I love them both!