I did not like the Rat Fink character and was even repelled by it (although the cars were alright) and feel this presupposed my future as a social conservative/trad. No kidding, early preferences predict a lot.
On a parallel note, model building and painting models is where I acquired early facility with skills that formed the basis for hobby activities until this very day (will be working on a Buell custom motorcycle later today). I was a perfectionist and I can’t tell you how many times I dunked the whole plastic body in thinner to remove the enamel and start once again. Kids now are missing this stage.
I was really surprised to learn a few years ago where the hobby of model car building stands today.
Check out these videos...
“Tips and Tricks for Building Show Quality Model Cars with Donn Yost”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX-RhJiNopk
Custom model cars car show
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3UM7u2iNSk
All my model cars 2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58_btMd9n30
Lots more here...
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=model+cars
12th Annual Tabletop Nationals: Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3fceZzco_4
Model Car Show 18 ième “On The Road” 2013 Jabbeke Belgium
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYSe17Ow8A0