Thank you so much, Jeff, Almass, Pierre and Willem--your kind comments and feedback are deeply appreciated! :)
@ Willem--I think the conversion and crop have conspired to create a sense of increased blur on the left that really isn't there nor was any added in post. The paint finish is matte which didn't help either. Here is a link to the uncropped, colour version. All I have done is resize and added a bit of sharpening--no other processing.
http://barbararead.pixu.com/photo/133820/133818

@ Barbara

Maybe it has to do with the selection of the colorfilter in the BW Conversion, The original is almost monochrome with little definition in the hood, but much more than is left in the BW conversion. I think the original is a really great picture and it can be converted to BW much stronger. (I've tried it)

Did you (accidentally) set a white vignette?

Nope, no white vignette. You're right about the conversion. I didn't spend as much time as I might have normally. The conversion was done solely based on how it was affecting the hood ornament with some consideration given to the pin striping, too.
I usually do my conversions as layers to get each element the way I want since global conversions rarely render all the elements the way I envision them. Hasty work on my part this time, but I'm still not overly displeased with the 'look' of this version. I can see and appreciate your points on how the left side is rendered and would love to see your version if you wish to share. :)

Hi Barbara

I've sent you a mail via 1x.

Maybe the vignette like effect also has to do with the fact that the framing right now is where the difference between hood and sky is least.(both on the left and bottom right)

And love the original too!

Many thanks, Anna, Kolbein and Suresh! :)

Thank you, Clyde, Dennis and Ana! :)

Ah Finally. Congrats.

:-) Congrats Barbara

A well deserved feature. Congrats!

Congrats barbara:)

Congrats! Wonderful that it featured!

Thanks!! :)