What does 'Survivor Car' Mean?

My 73 satellite had 54000 miles when I bought it. I'm now at 60K.

It had one repaint with single stage that most people can't spot unless I tell them.

It still has the original hose clamps, and a few of the original hoses.

The PO added aftermarket sway bars and converted the A/C to 134.

I removed the green bench seat, upper door panels, and rear seat (all in VGC), stored them, and installed recovered white factory buckets and matching rear seat and panels.
I added a tuff wheel, factory sport mirrors and rallye wheels.

I still consider this car a survivor, as it has been on the road and in serviceable condition since new and has never been "restored" or rebuilt in any way other than what I've described.

"Survivor" is one of those terms that's easier to describe what it isn't, than what it is.

I love seeing ads for "survivors" that need both quarters replaced, have shredded interiors, and don't run because the motor is locked up and missing parts.

Those cars didn't survive!