Custom Wheels for a Classic Car Show

You've just bought a new car but definitely feel that the factory-made rims and wheels have to go. After all, they are oh-so-boring and plain, not to mention every other driver with the same make and model will have the same set of wheels. So you have made the decision to change the rims to something which suits your personality. Well, you are definitely open for choice because there are many different custom wheels that you can purchase. For starters keep in mind that the price of each set of wheels will vary depending on the manufacturer and or auto shop you buy them from. A general rule of thumb is that if you pay less that is what you will ultimately get. We are not advocating buying expensive custom wheels rather you need to be careful of what you buy because you want to watch out for quality. It would be appropriate if at this point in time you start thinking of your budget for your custom wheels. How much are you willing to pay for them?

Additionally, did you know that by changing your cars' wheels and rims, you could unintentionally cause your car manufacturer's warranty to become null and void? This is the reason why you need to select an auto shop which can give you the best advice and information if you want to purchase custom wheels. You do not want to accidentally purchase wheels that look gorgeous but don't fit the specifications and end up with more troubles in the end. First off, have a look at your vehicle. Depending on how heavy it is, you need to select suitable wheels that can bear its weight. A wheel which is too big might cause problems to your car's brake system while one which is too small could very well make it difficult for you to turn. Typical custom wheels that you can choose would be made of alloy or steel. Light alloy wheels will reduce the overall weight of your vehicle and that in turn means your vehicle is now consuming less petrol.

These type of wheels will also be a good choice for you if you frequently encounter stop-go traffic while on the roads. You will not face over heating if using light alloy wheels because they allow air to flow into your brakes. On the other hand, if you plan to use your vehicle for heavy lifting or if you will frequently use back roads to transport items, you should opt for custom wheels made of steel because they are sturdy. Before actually purchasing your new set of custom wheels, there are some technical details of your car which you should be aware of. What is the maximum load rating of your car? Your new wheels should be compatible with that because if it isn't, problems will occur in the future. You might not think much of it but each part of the car plays its own role. A tiny or slight variation from that will affect the performance of your car.

As such, when buying wheels, make sure that they have the same bolt pattern as the ones you already have on the vehicle. It would be very strange if you eventually bought custom wheels that did not fit because the bolts are not in the same place. Now that you have a general idea of your budget and the technical aspect of purchasing custom wheels, you can relax a little and think about the style of wheels and rims that you want on your car. After all, that is the reason why you decided to get a new set of wheels in the first place. You want something that mirrors your personality and gives your car a little bit of that extra jazz. If you are considering showing your classic car then be sure you know the judges rules on custom rims.

Fortunately, there are many auto shops where you can browse through and make your choice. Whether you want something more personable or stylish or even stronger looking wheels with spokes is entirely up to you.

Original article

Just Because It Is Old Doesn't Make It a Classic Car in the Collector's Eyes

In many states, such as California there are rules which are different in the motor vehicle code for those folks that own old classic cars. This is because they may not always be able to meet the smog requirements since cars back in those days didn't have all the new sophisticated environmental controls and systems. Because there are these classic car laws, many folks who have older vehicles will keep them for longer as they are able to bypass some of the restrictions, regulations, and rules for operating a motor vehicle. Okay so, I'd like to talk to you about this for second if I might.

As a classic car enthusiast, I often read the classified ads to see if someone has something for sale that might be up my alley. Interestingly enough, more and more, I see the word "classic" or the phrases; classic car or classic automobile. Still, just because something is old doesn't mean it's a classic, and there are a lot of old cars that people don't collect, perhaps because there were so many build, and even in their own day, they were nothing to write home about, they were your basic point A to point B car.

Let me give you an example. After Chrysler was bailed out by the US government, they started building those "K-Cars" and really, with the engine going sideways, and a giant rubber band running the automobile they were a maintenance nightmare, so I'm actually surprised any of these cars are running. They remind me as far as auto maintenance is concerned to be very similar to those old Yugo's which were also known as the throw away car. You drive them until they break, and then you throw them away because you can't get the parts, and they aren't worth fixing anyway. You remember the old quip; Yugo - Yah, "you go" nowhere fast!"

Okay so, back to the classic car comment. In our local newspaper someone was advertising one of these old "K-Cars" it was a little station wagon model, and their ad read; "perfect classic car project, slight body damage, old classic Chrysler Classic K-Car," and I thought to myself you have to be kidding me? Someone is really trying to pass that off as a classic car, just because it's old now? I hate to break the news to the gentleman who is trying to sell that car, but it was junk the day it was made, why would anyone want to restore it?

Either that individual is completely ignorant about classic cars, or he is trying to pull a fast one over on a naïve buyer. In fact, I would submit to you that he spent more on the ad then that car is worth. By the time you pay the toll fees to the junkyard, you probably couldn't even get your money back for recycling it. Indeed I hope you will please consider all of this think on it.

Lance Winslow has launched a new series of eBooks on the Mobile Auto Services Business. Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a The Oil Change Guys, a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank; http://www.worldthinktank.net/

Original article

How Long Until Today's Latest Hybrid Cars Become Classic Cars?

It is intriguing that a classic car is considered a car which is over 20 years old. Interestingly enough, they've been selling the Toyota previous now for 13 years. That means that in seven more years it will become a classic car. That sounds fascinating doesn't it? After all, it is a hybrid car not a classic. In other words, it is a futuristic car with advanced systems with all the latest and greatest technologies. And yet it is quite old and approaching the "classic auto" age. Let's talk about this for second shall we?

Rebuilding a car which is a classic has been a hobby for many automotive enthusiasts. The question is will people rebuild these old hybrid automobiles and keep them running long-term in order to show them off at car shows in the future? Well, they might, but keeping them all original might not be such a great idea. After all, the battery technology used in the original hybrid cars is not very good compared to today's battery technology, and further, by the time they do become classics that technology will be literally obsolete.

A Toyota Prius has a battery system which needs to be replaced about every 20,000 miles or 5 to 6 years depending on how many miles it is driven and how much use it gets. Those original batteries aren't really even available anymore ($7500 to replace), and although you can get them, why would you? The new battery systems are much better, as they last longer, charge up quicker, and don't wear out so fast. Of course, when you have a classic car you need to keep it all original, but why would you in this case?

Another interesting point is that just because a car is old doesn't make it a classic. It might be legally or as per the definition a classic, but no one really wants to buy one at an antique auto auction, nor does anyone wish to restore that particular model of automobile. Do you see that point as well? It is a decent and relevant question to ask if these hybrid cars will ever become classic automobiles in the way we think of today's classic cars. My guess is that some models will such as the Tesla Roadster and other specialty hybrids will, but your typical hybrid car will not. Of course, that's just a prediction and only time can tell.

Now then, I was at the Don Laughlin Automobile Museum and Laughlin Nevada, and there were hybrid automobiles from the 1940s through 1960s, and they were considered classics and on display. Rightfully so I might add, and yet, it seems so hard to imagine a Toyota Prius as a museum piece in the future - although certainly, that car does hold a place in automotive history, but; will it be respected in the future by classic automotive enthusiasts? I bet Toyota hopes it will, and perhaps there are those who have older Toyota Prius automobiles who were holding onto them for just that reason. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it.

Lance Winslow has launched a new provocative series of eBooks on Future Auto Concepts. Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank; http://www.worldthinktank.net/

Original article

Enjoy Driving Using Classic Cars

There are many reasons why people would want to own classic cars, and the most important one is the car's beauty. Many people will readily admit that the vehicles are unique and good to look at. A classic car will turn heads every time it is driven down the street. The term classic is used to define a car from a different age or era. While the term is fluid, there are different definitions depending on regions. There are clubs that set boundaries that limit the automobiles that can get that label, but generally, the vehicles should be at least over 30 years old. An antique class categorizes those that are over 45 years old.

Classic ones can tend to be quite costly, depending on the era they were made. The more rare the model, the more expensive it will be. Some models are highly sought after around the world with collectors offering great sums to own the car. Naturally, the condition of the car will determine the cost. There are, however, those who buy the vehicles in any condition, just for the joy of fixing them up to their former glory. Refurbishing a classic car can be very costly because of the unavailability of spare parts.

While most of those who buy the classics keep them as show pieces, they are many who enjoy driving these vehicles. Competitions are often held in different regions that are more like beauty pageants for the ancient vehicles. Here classic enthusiasts get to show off their collections to fellow collectors and fans. The vehicles are judged on their beauty, and how well they are preserved and maintained, among other considerations.

Those who drive the old vehicles have to be especially careful on the roads. These vehicles lack most of the safety equipment found on modern vehicles. Basic features like air bags and safety belts were not in use decades ago. The vehicle handling capabilities are also not as efficient as those found on modern vehicles. Break performance and steering are not up to the current standards and, therefore, these vehicles should be driven with the utmost care. Some regions limit or even prohibit the driving of these vehicles. It is also recommended that those who own the vehicles get them fitted with seat belts and other safety mechanisms.

Most of the old vehicles have bodies that were not designed to have seatbelts. This makes installing them quite problematic. There are also those who feel that this spoils the overall appearance of the car and the modern fittings go against the nature of a classic. Other suggestions such as the fitting of modern tires face the same challenges, as do upgrading of the braking system. There are those who suggest fitting the old vehicles with parts from more modern versions of the same model to improve safety.

Most of the old cars have bodies which were not designed to have seatbelts. This makes installing them quite problematic. There are also those who feel that this spoils the overall appearance of the car and the modern fittings go against the nature of classic cars. Other suggestions such as the fitting of modern tires face the same challenges, as do upgrading of the braking system. There are those who suggest fitting the old cars with parts from more modern versions of the same model to improve safety. Despite all the concerns, there have been very few reports of accidents involving classic cars.

Original article

Classic Car Care or Retro Look With a Car Loan?

The other day, I was at a classic car show, and I was talking to a buddy of mine, and I had my digital camera out taking pictures of everything, and in the parking lot on the way into the car show there was one of those new T-Birds with the retro look. It had extra fender flares, and some aftermarket stuff, but it really looked cool, and it looked quite old, but being a car buff I realized that it was probably built a couple years ago. And it probably cost him a bundle, considering that it was new and all the work which had been done, and therefore it wasn't cheap.

After going through the car show, there were some actual vintage T-Birds, and they were all decked out and very beautiful, and I talked to some of the owners there that had spent a pretty penny on all the components, and keeping them all original. One of them won third place in Best of Show category, and I believe he deserved it. It was amazing the amount of work he had put in, and it was a daily driver. This is the car he drove around in, which is even more impressive considering he placed so high at the car show.

As I was going back out into the parking lot, I saw the individual get into his car with his wife in the more modern retro T-Bird, and we had a quick chat because we love cars, and he said that he had about $52,000 in the car, which is very similar to the amount of money that the classic car owner had in his T-Bird, although the classic T-Bird also had intrinsic value due to its "real classic" label and category. The owner of the new T-Bird said his insurance was quite high, and he was making loan payments.

The old classic owner probably didn't have any loan payments, as he had paid as he went as he was fixing it up, but it's obvious he had the same amount of money in it. So that brings up another good question; do you spend your time and money to rebuild a classic car, or do you just go buy one, or do you instead enjoy the retro look, and never worry about it breaking down, because the car is virtually new?

More and more people are thinking this way, especially as they get older, and they wish to live, or relive part of the past, but they don't want to be broken down on the side of the road, or constantly working on their car. Indeed, I hope you will please consider all this and think on it, as it is just an observation, but a relatively intriguing question. I'm sure as a classic car enthusiast yourself, you would agree, and perhaps you've discussed this reality as well.

Lance Winslow has launched a new series of eBooks on the Mobile Detailing Business. Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a The Detail Guys, a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank; http://www.worldthinktank.net/

Original article

Top Classic Car Museums

If you are an auto enthusiast, then you probably have a passion for everything cars. You probably love classic cars, new cars, and all the features that have come in between. There are plenty of places all across the world that share your passion. This article will take a look at the top automobile museums. Now you can make a trio and marvel at all the wonders available for viewers to see.

Sarasota Classic Car Museum. This museum is recognized as the second oldest continuously operating Antique car museums in the United States. They offer you a chance to walk among antique, exotic, European, and even one of a kind classic cars. If you are lucky you can go and view various celebrity cars such as John Lennon's 1965 Mercedes Benz.

Volvo Auto Museum. Nestled in Volvo, Illinois is the Volvo Auto Museum. This place is a must see attraction. They have a special kid's zone, movie car collection, military autos, vintage cars, and many more. If you are interested in purchasing or selling a classic care then these are the people that you want to talk to.

The Auto Collections. This attraction is the world's largest classic car museum. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, this showroom is open every day so that visitors can bask in the glory. The showroom features over 300 car models. You can gaze at cars that date all the way back to the 20s and include most classics till now.

The Gilmore Car Museum. This museum is located in America's auto industry heartland. If you are traveling to Michigan then you will want to check out this museum. Started from a passion for cars, this museum grew into a bigger idea and now operates on a farm with over 8 barns to showcase the classic beauties.

Canton Classic Car Museum. Travel back in time and see more than 45 rare, unusual, classic, and special interest cars. Not only does this museum offer visitors a look at these cars but they also offer historical memorabilia so that you can see what was going on through the time periods when the cars were created.

Antique Auto Museum. Located in Hersey, Pennsylvania is the AACA museum. Visitors may be surprised that this is more than just a museum. It displays present original and restored vintage vehicles that show how the car developed throughout history. In the activity room, children can have a chance to get behind the wheel and drift back into time. This museum also holds larger events on location throughout the year so be sure to check with them for specific dates.

Whether you have a classic car or just have a love for their beauty, these are just a few places that one can check out. IF you currently own one or are thinking about purchasing one, check with your insurance provider and get cheap auto insurance quotes so that you can always have these classic beauties covered. Due to their stature and prestige, these cars will need more protection so that they can stay in the condition that they are intended for.

Original article

Should You Take Your Classic Car Through a Carwash?

Most people that have classic cars with pristine car finishes will not go through any type of carwash that has brushes. And a good many of them know better than to go through carwashes that wash the car without touching it, because generally they use a flash washing method where they use an acid type soap wash, allow 10-seconds of dwell time which eats the dirt, and then rinse it quickly within a few seconds to prevent it from damaging the paint job or the rubber on the vehicle. Okay so, let's talk about this for second shall we?

Now then, if you have a fully restored classic car chances are you have gone to great expense to buy aftermarket custom rubber built on original specs, and you have a car which does not have a clear coat, and chances are you have a ton of lacquer, and/or wax on that car. Such a washing technique from a touchless carwash strips off a good amount of wax, and whereas the lacquer finishes probably okay, it doesn't do much good for it, therefore these classic car owners are right not to take their cars through this type of carwash.

What if the carwash is not a mechanized robotic tunnel carwash, or what if the washing system is not a touchless automatic - what if the carwash is a full hand wash where is soaped by hand, rinsed with a pressure washer, and dried with very extremely soft terry cloth towels, and chamois?

In that case it is okay, providing those doing the soaping are careful and do not pick up any little pebbles or granulars of dirt as they are soaping. If they soap underneath the wheel wells and then use that same wash mitt on the car, it will put fine and minute scratches in the surface of the paint. If they understand how to wash a classic car, and they're doing it very carefully, that would be fine, but it only takes one employee, perhaps the new guy, that doesn't know what they're doing to put scratches in your car.

Sometimes it makes more sense to hire a mobile detailer to come to your house, if you don't wish to do it yourself, someone who knows what they're doing, perhaps even the owner of their own little company, and have them do a complete hand wash. If not, I advise you to wash your own car. There are very few carwashes in this country that I would feel comfortable sending you to if you have a pristine and perfect classic car that you've totally rebuilt yourself with a perfect paint job and is show quality. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it.

Lance Winslow has launched a new series of eBooks on the Mobile Detailing Business. Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a The Detail Guys, a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank; http://www.worldthinktank.net/

Original article

What Constitutes A Classic Car?

What constitutes a classic car, Who determines if a car is a classic, when does a car become a classic?

How many times are those questions asked? This classic car debate is a very subjective one and in my opinion there is no right or wrong answer.

There have been iconic cars that attained classic status upon introduction, the Jaguar E type roadster for example is a case in mind, when introduced at the Geneva motor show it stole the show. The model on the stand had been driven to the show over night and had rolled off the production line a day or two previously.

The Aston Martin DB 5 attained classic status as James Bond 's choice of car.

Preston Tucker and the Tucker Torpedo became an iconic car and gained classic status from inception due to the publicity and the court case. The interest it created in 1948 has not waned in the intervening years. I was fortunate to see one in the flesh and found it difficult to believe it was created pre 1960 never mind pre 1950.

The majority of us will never get to own any of these super cars however that does not stop us owning and enjoying our own classic cars. For most of us the cars of our childhood constitutes our definition of a classic car. Who would argue the Mini or the fiat 500 are not classics, yet these models were created as transport for the masses, produced in very large numbers, and yet fifty years after their introduction are very desirable.

The cars our parents or other relatives owned often stay in the mind as being a thing of beauty, each time we see one it evokes pleasant memories and perhaps the aspiration to own one. For me it was a Humber Hawk MK VI, my childhood memory of seeing one being driven by a factory owner, it looked so graceful as it glided along and in comparison with other cars of that era it was so silent. I spent many evenings as young boy looking in the showroom window of the local dealer and dreamed of owning and driving such a beautiful car. Forty-four later I realised my dream. To me it is a classic car to others it has no meaning.

We can have a yearning for the car we learned to drive in, again it evokes pleasant memories. When I attend classic car shows and see the cars from each of the decades I also notice the choices of the various generations represents the cars of their youth. So the debate of what constitutes a classic car is often personal to the individual as our memories are personal.

Each decade produces a car that will appeal to almost everyone however due to cost it will be out of the reach of the majority, equally each decade produces cars that are affordable to most and will reach classic status.

The Fiat X 19 a mid engined two-seater is an example of what is considered a classic today, it was not expensive and was built in large numbers and today is considered an iconic design.

My conclusion is there are no boundaries as to what constitutes a classic car. The appeal of a particular model or manufacturer is often deep-rooted in our childhood. If you are considering attaining a classic join the owners club before you purchase the car, the knowledge of current owners as to spares availability and what to look for when looking at your potential purchase is invaluable. They may know of your potential purchase.

Original article

Advice on Buying a Classic Car

If your annual mileage is very low, you may be retired or live very close to your workplace, running a classic car as your only vehicle may substantially reduce your motoring costs. You could even have free motoring.

If the car was manufactured before the 1st January 1973 there is no fee to pay for the road fund licence. It is considered to be an historical vehicle.

Note that the regulations state the manufactured date, not the registered date. So if your vehicle was registered just after January 1973, check the chassis number with the owners club or manufacturer to find out the date it was constructed. If the car was built in 1972 or earlier then get a dating certificate for the DVLA to claim historical vehicle status. However you still have to have an MOT and insurance, but you get a tax disk for no fee.

If your annual mileage is very low, you may be retired or live very close to your workplace, running a classic car as your only vehicle may substantially reduce your motoring costs. You could even have free motoring.

Insurance can be much cheaper for classic cars as insurance companies know you are not a boy racer. Ask your insurance company for a classic car policy, If they do not have such a policy then shop around. Your car owners club may have their own insurance company or broker.

Whatever car you buy, you must join the owners club. They will have contacts for spare parts and a mine of information about your car. Your car may have an interesting history!
Many years ago (before the internet) spare parts for unusual and old vehicles were a problem to locate. Nowadays if you go on to Google, I think you can still get spare parts for Noah's Ark!

There are 4 types of classic car you can buy.

Perfect, Original or restored.
Great, of you go, but you pay top dollar.

Running but requires some TLC.
This can be ongoing restoration whilst using the car.

Barn find, complete.
If you are handy with a spanner, great.

Basket case. (car in pieces).
Big problem, you must check that you have all the bits.

Where do you buy your car? eBay is a good start but always view and check the car before you bid.

Look at classic car magazines and newspaper advertisements. Unless you really know what you are doing, the first thing you need is a tame mechanic to check over the vehicle before you buy it. Even if it costs you a few pints it is well worth it. You can kick the tyres if you want to.

Why not use a future classic as your own car. I have a 10 year old Rover 75, and I think this could be a future classic. Other suggestions for future classics are a Golf GTI or MGTF.

Your classic car could also provide you with an additional income, such as wedding car hire or film and TV work. You could have free motoring.

Michael T J Hawkins.

You could use your classic car to provide a part-time income, go to http://www.michaelscarbooks.co.uk/ for a copy of "How to Start a Wedding Car Hire Business" You can also download a free copy of "How to Save Money on Motor Fuel" as a thank you for visiting my website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_T_J_Hawkins

Original article

Aston Martin Classic Cars Past and Present Making the News

The highly esteemed luxury sports car marque Aston Martin has always had a certain 'je nais se quoi' and über cool status, thanks to being immortalised on television and big screen films like James Bond and the company's racing heritage. The Aston racing heritage stems right back to the beginning of the 20th century when the company used to compete in hill climb races; later in the century saw many of the big names race with the Aston Martin team, which together with the film exposure has made the company into a desirable brand worldwide.

New V12 Zagato

The new Aston Martin V12 Zagato, which makes its debut at the Kuwait Concours d'Elegance in the Middle East in February 2012, has been designed to mark the 50th anniversary of the legendary iconic '1961 DB4 GT Zagato'.

The 1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato in its day raised the bar and set a benchmark for the hand crafted design of luxury sports cars around the world. The new Aston Martin V12 Zagato follows in the historical footsteps and collaboration of both Aston Martin and the designers Zagato, with the aim of designing and producing a luxury sports car with exemplifies driving excellence.

Italian design house Zagato are known for their avant-garde driven style, plus the car also uses a number of weight saving approaches which utilises space age materials and improved aerodynamics, thanks to the Zagato V12's sleek design.

V12 Vantage Roadster

The company has announced they will be attending the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March and will be unveiling the new V12 Vantage Roadster.

This will be the first time the automotive press and car loving public will be able to see the new Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster and get up close and personal with the car. This is an all-new soft top shares the same chassis as some of the other cars in the Vantage range, but the new Vantage Roadster receives the awesome 5.9-liter V12, that produces 510bhp, so there is more than enough power to the wheels.

Aston Martin DB4GT

The beginning of February has seen a classic Aston, namely an ultra-rare DB4GT Coupé, sell for a staggering £839,000 (or $1.32 million) at the famous Bonham's auction in Paris. Bonham's are one of the world's largest auctioneer's houses in the world and selling a whole host of luxury items.

This auction was a sale dedicated to luxury cars and featured over 100 classic cars from around the world. The 1961 DB4GT Coupé was paid particular interest by many potential buyers, as the Aston Martin DB4GT Coupé is an extremely rare car (only 75 were ever built); it is essentially a dramatically lightened version of the hugely appealing regular DB4 car.

Gregory Greene is writing on behalf of Bramleys in Surrey, the best choice for a Porsche Specialist or when choosing a Classic Car Dealers for purchasing your next prestigious or luxury motor car.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregory_Greene

Original article

Collecting Classic Detroit Muscle

The big, ground-pounding machines of the 60's and early 70's are heavily sought-after classics. From the Coke bottle styling of the '68 Dodge Charger and its Big block Hemi's, to the low slung lines of the '63 split-window Corvette, Detroit had something for everyone, and the same still holds true for private collectors and connoisseurs today.

It doesn't take much detective work to find something you would be proud to have maturing in your driveway. And you might be surprised at just how little you would spend to get it. While many classics are going for prices that easily put your mortgage payment to shame, a lot of great examples are still out there and are still very affordable. Mustangs, Novas, and a whole host of Chryslers can still be had for less than $5,000 - you can believe it; it's true.

For the really great deals though, you need to think outside the box. Two words: Station Wagon. Yep, you read it right; the much-maligned family favorite is making a serious comeback. And you might want to get yours while you can, because prices for these babies are on the up and up. Back in the day, many of those station wagons came with the same high horsepower plants their big brothers were using to terrorize the local drag strips every Saturday night. Big blocks were common, and a few even came with a factory four-speed. The Impala, Nova and Dodge Coronet all had wagon models, and from the windshield forward, were nearly identical.

And, contrary to popular myth, there were in fact other car manufacturers besides the big three. AMC is one that turned out a few cool-looking, hot rides. The fastback Marlin, Javelin and the Rebel 'machine' are a few of the names that can still be had for a decent price nowadays. Badges like Oldsmobile, Buick, Pontiac and Mercury are still to be had without breaking the bank though.

This was an era when manufacturers were going head to head to see who could build the biggest, 'baddest' hot rod of them all. This was a time when you really could drive a car off the lot knowing that it shared the same motor and sheet metal as the guy who had just won the Daytona 500. Unfortunately, this was a time we won't see the likes of again. Dad was right; "they don't make 'em like that anymore."

Original article

Classic Car Fraud

As the value of classic cars increase the fraudsters have become more sophisticated.

My business is inspecting and valuing classic and rare vehicles on behalf of prospective buyers. Scams and fraud are an every day pain we have to put up with. Most are seen a mile off as they tend to repeat themselves, and as I see them most days they become easier to spot.

During the last year due to the increase in the value of classic cars the fraudsters have upped their game and some have become very sophisticated. The internet is helping their cause with very impressive web sites.

Below is one I encountered in December 2011. By doing the correct checks and applying common sense you will not be caught.

I was recently approached by a prospective client in Germany to look at a car on his behalf. The car in question was a left hand drive jaguar XK140 roadster in pristine condition. The asking price was 24,500 euros, very cheap was my first thought.

The seller contacted my client informing him the shipping was inclusive in the asking price. The car was in Co Durham on the shipping companies premises. He was given the shipping companies details including their website, which was very impressive. They offered many services including the storage and shipping of classic and rare vehicles. The most interesting service they offered was as a broker for the buyer, the buyer paid the money to the shipping company who held it for seven days after the vehicle delivered to the buyer. If within the seven days the buyer was not satisfied the vehicle was not as advertised all money refunded and the car shipped back to at the sellers expense. Once the buyer expressed their satisfaction the money is paid to the seller. Sounds very re-assuring.

The shipping companies corporate headquarters main telephone number was a mobile. When I checked companies house there was no record of their existence. I contacted both the seller and the shipping company via email. The shipping company never replied to request to see the car, however the seller informed me the shipping company had in house appraisal facilities and it was not possible to view the car. My client in the meantime was being urged by the seller to conclude the deal as there was another interested party. I had the shipping companies website hosting checked, it originated in Latvia, the sellers email source also originated in an Eastern European time zone, despite telling my client he was in Scotland.

We think we would never fall for such a scam, but I have no doubt some have. Bear in mind the car was advertised in Germany, both the car, the seller and the shipping company are in the UK, immediately there is a language barrier, and the price it is offered at looks such a bargain. The shipping company offering the brokerage service would appeal to an unsuspecting honest person.

This scam has not gone away, it will appear again, who is to say they will not advertise in a UK publication a car in Spain, or any other European country at a very attractive price with a similar brokerage facility, I believe they will catch unsuspecting people.Their set up costs are low and the rewards are very high. Five people caught equals one hundred thousand pounds. The difficulty the police have with this type of crime is which country was the crime committed and how are these people tracked down?

How many times do we allow our hearts to rule our head when our dream car comes on the market at a price we can afford? The desire to own such a vehicle often dictates all common sense is ignored. It is advisable to get a second opinion from a professional who has no emotional or financial interest in your purchase.

DO NOT ALLOW YOUR DREAM TO BE BECOME A NIGHTMARE.

Original article

Rolls Royce Corniche for Sale - Finding a Unique Classic Car

If you are a true admirer of the brand, then it makes sense for you to look for a Rolls Royce Corniche for sale. All automobiles from this line boast with excellent performance, considerable power and the interior and exterior luxury design typical for this carmaker. There are various options to select from so you need to have a precise idea of what you are looking for.

Most buyers focus their attention on the first four generations of Rolls Royce Corniche automobiles for sale. Despite the common misconception, not all of the models are convertibles. There are first and second generation coupes. They may not have the versatility of their convertible counterparts, but they certainly have high collector value.

If you are a passionate collector or if you want a truly classic car that none of the people around you has, you may want to look for a Rolls Royce Corniche for sale from the first generation. The cars produced between 1971 and 1977 boast with 6.75-liter V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, a solid and strong exterior and super luxury interior with leather and all kinds of other spoils.

The classic Corniche II models made from 1977 to 1989 are more massive than their counterparts. You can expect even more comfy seats and interior. The models made after 1987 have the L401I Bosch KE/K-Jetronic fuel injection engine allowing them to develop the amazing for the time speed of 118 mph. These have other modern features such as antilock brakes. Basically, if you want a more powerful and safer car with a classic design, a second-generation Corniche is a good choice.

Rolls Royce Corniche for sale from the third generation may be harder to find given that the cars were produced only from 1989 to 1993. Still, they have refined classic exterior which makes them particularly glam. These do not boast with any engine and transmission improvements, however.

If you are looking for a more powerful Corniche, you may want to check out the fourth generation models with L401IT Turbo V8 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission. The curved lines of these convertibles and their lavish interior and exterior make them the ideal choice for impressing the crowd at the country club. If you want a car high with high collector value from this generation, you should start looking for one of the 25 built during 1992 to commemorate the 21st anniversary of the model.

Finding classic cars for sale such as a Rolls Royce Corniche for sale will require extensive research, but for fastest results, you may want to perform it online. Check the manufacturer's website and contact a local dealership. Do not miss to go over the directories with car sale ads. Once you find what you are looking for, you must arrange for thorough inspection of the automobile and a test drive as soon as possible.

When you're next in the market for a used Rolls Royce, you will not find a better deal. Also in stock is the range of new Rolls Royce cars such as this new Rolls Royce Ghost for sale.

Original article

Classic Cars - Buick's History

The Buick muscle cars known as the GS 400, and the mighty GSX were known as "Gentleman's Cars". Buicks proved high performing in the sixties, and early part of the seventies. Any classic Buick fan will tell you that Buick's marketing strategy was below the Cadillac. Buicks were a noble breed, and often referred to as cars a doctor would be driving. Buicks birth into the muscle car industry happened in 1965.

Buick offered Gran Sport options for the Wildcat, and the Riviera. These vehicles were splendid manly-type cars, but not your classic muscle machine. This version changed drastically with the birth of the Buick Skylark that shared its design with the Tempest that Pontiac used for the foundation of the popular GTO. The company came out with a mid-sized sedan with mid-sized performance in the middle eighties with the GNX, and the Grand National that contained V-6 engines.

Before the Electra 225, the Limited, and the Roadmaster was the "Big Boys" of Buick's legendary lineup. In 1959, these cars were renamed the Electra. The car earned its name "deuce and a quarter" due to the overall length of the nameplate which stemmed 225 inches. These models shared six window hardtops with the Cadillac Fleetwood.

A standard two-door convertible and a standard four-door hardtop shared a stripped chassis. 144 of these cars were produced between the years 1959, and 1960. In 1962, the Wildcat evolved after mating the Invicta long full-size two-door hardtop body with the high performance 435 hp version of the 401 cu in Nailhead V-8 which was known as the Wildcat 445 for producing 445 ft. * 1bf of torque. It contained the Dynaflow transmission, and distinctive side trimming, distinctive emblems and a vinyl roof.

Buick has used the name "Wildcat" for five vehicles that stem from the fifties, eighties, and nineties. The 1953-54-55 versions were designed under the watchful eye of Harley Earl. The 1985 version contains a mid-sized engine, and is an all-wheel-drive sports car with sporting a V-6 engine. The 1997 version contains carbon fiber instead of the viscous wood grain trim, and the engine was modified.

In 1982, The Regal Grand National was introduced to the market. The name derived from the NASCAR Grand National racing series. Buick won the Manufacturers Cup in 1981-82, and they wanted to flaunt their success. The company had only intended to produce one hundred of these cars, but they ran with the plan to retrofit 215 Regals with the GN and GNX package.

The Reatta was the first advertised two-seater of Buick. It was deemed a luxury sports coupe that was crafted in Lansing Michigan and sold by GM from 1988 to 1991. The design was based on a shorter version of the GM E platform used in Cadillac Eldorado's and the Oldsmobile Toronado's. It was a compact sports car, but sadly, it was only offered with automatic transmission.

The Buick Division at GM built the Roadmaster and was produced between the years of 1936 and 1958. These models shared their design structure with the Oldsmobile's. Between the years of 1946 and 1957, this car was considered a top-of-line model. Buick decided to place the Roadmaster name on a new full-sized-wheel drive model between 1991 and 1996. Here, is an amusing fact about this car; the Right Honorable Jean Chretien, Canada's Prime Minister was driven around in armored Roadmasters during his entire term of office (1993 - 2003).

Classic Buick fans exist because they not only seek high-performance but luxury. This company is well-known for their luxury cars and the fact they were able to build muscle cars on top of luxury cars, reinforces the fact that this car company's products are more collectible than ever.

Original article

Where to Find Old Classic Cars

If you're in the market for an old classic car you have a number of options for locating high quality vintage automobiles. Newspapers, auto trade magazines and the internet are all good choices for searching for an antique Ford Model T's, Buick Road Masters or classic Chevy Nova muscle cars. However, to get the best selection of old cars for sale you should probably focus on using the web to find sites that specialize in classic cars so you can focus your search and be in the company of car enthusiasts who know the ins and outs of buying and selling vintage automobiles.

When you're shopping for a new car it's not hard to find information and reviews about specific models. The car buying business is a huge industry and buyers and sellers will have no shortage of available data when making an informed decision about a certain make and model. But, with classic and old cars it's not always as easy to find important information that can influence the offer you're willing to make for a classic DeSoto Firedome, Ford Thunderbird or Dodge Coronet Coupe. These types of vehicles haven't been manufactured since the 1940's and 1950's so it's much harder to determine how reliable an original engine is, what constitutes high mileage and if certain specifications are no longer legal in the state you drive in.

Finding old cars for sale isn't difficult but knowing the vehicle you are interested in is worth buying is the tricky part. From auto shows and newspaper classifieds to cars parked in front lawns and used car lots there are plenty of places to find vintage 1960's Chevy Impalas, 1950's Plymouth Concords and 1970's Pontiac GTO's. But unless you are a car enthusiast who knows the unique history of auto manufacturing and the pros and cons of specific models you may have trouble knowing for sure the car you are considering is worth buying. The advantage to using the web and sites that specialize in classic cars is the community of experts that navigate to these sites and offer information about many types of vintage cars.

When you search for a 1939 Ford Coupe, 1955 Buick Condor or 1975 Cadillac El Dorado in a newspaper or used car lot you may find the vehicle you want but might not be entirely sure it is worth making an offer on. With an online community dedicated to classic cars you can use web resource pages and chat rooms to ask specific questions that will be answered by former owners of the vehicle and mechanics who have worked on it. This way you know in advance of certain parts were known to be defective or if the car was known to guzzle gas or didn't handle well in foul weather. Classic cars have a history all their own and the more you know about it the better chance you have of making an informed decision when it comes time to buying a vintage car.

For a great selection of old cars, vintage cars and classic muscle cars for sale visit Antiquecar.com.

Original article

The Objects of Affection for Classic Ford Fans

I have always been a classic Ford fan. I have beautiful memories of my father driving around in his Crown Vic, and I remember the joy and love he bestowed upon the car. The children were never allowed to eat, drink or chew gum in his beloved "Victoria". My father has since passed on, and I am the proud owner of his true love. I never realized the relationship that one can have with a car until I became the proud owner of a classic car, thanks to my father.

The following classic cars have had many admirers:

Ranchero

Who does not love the line-up this car originated from back in the fifties? This car was a small truck. This car was the first ancestor of trucks we see today. These cars were titled coupes or standard roadsters that contained a small cargo box instead of a trunk. Unbelievably, the Ranchero proved easier than other cars to obtain financing on because it was easier to secure a loan on a truck instead of a car.

Shelby Cobra

In order to learn about this sports car, you must first get to know a Texan by the name of Carroll Shelby whose name is linked to one of the highest-performance cars of all time. Mr. Shelby was a race car driver, and when his medical condition (heart) cut his season short on the race track, he became an automotive entrepreneur. Originally, the sports car was to be sold only in the United States, but this idea did not last long. The British market completed the first right-hand drive version of this car in 1963 and was eventually sold throughout Europe. Production of the Cobra ended in December 1968.

Galaxie

This car was a direct competitor with the Impala. Both cars were enormous with beautiful, luxurious interiors and contained trunks so vast you could build a home in them. The Galaxie was born in 1959 and was produced through 1974. Erich Merkle an industry analyst for Ford Motor Company once stated "It was a vehicle that met pretty much everybody's needs in the middle somewhere."

Model T

This classic car was born in 1908 with the first one being sold for $950. At one point in history, the Model T sold for $280. This vehicle evolved from an affordable means of transportation to a luxury item for those who could afford it.

The Hi-Boy

This term is used when referring to Ford F-250s and proves to be a nickname instead of an authorized Ford name of the truck. You either love these trucks, or you hate them, there is never an in-between with this Ford product.

In order, for a Ford truck to be considered a Hi-Boy, it should meet the following standards:

-1967 - 1977 Ford-250 4X4
-The front spring pack will contain an arch
-3 driveshaft's
-The front choices for this vehicle were the low pinion Dana 60 or the 8-lug Dana 44
-360 2 bbl. V-8 engines or the 6-cyclinder
-Power ram assisted or manual steering

Cabriolet

Ford vehicles with 4-cylinder engines were ended back in 1933. V-8 models such as this car received all the attention from consumers. Henry Ford's only son, Edsel Ford, made the decision to place a V-8 engine into this stylish machine. Who could not help, but fall in love with the slanted grille and windshield and rounded tapered, corners of the hood and trunk? This car was and still is a beauty to behold for any Ford classic car enthusiast.

Model A

This car was produced from 1927 - 1931 and proved to be the second most successful model for Ford Motor Company. This model followed the creation of the Model T and was available in only four standard colors but not black.

5 Window Coupe

This Ford Coupe contains two door windows, a rear window and two quarter panel windows. This car is the most popular in conversions to street rods. Everyone can agree that the original versions of these cars are popular. Most people think of these cars, and they reminisce about times in our nation ranging from the forties through the sixties. This is one of the expensive collectibles of Ford classic cars.

The GT40

This classic car was originally known as a 4-time Le Mans winning race car. It is rumored that this classic was the world's first supercar. The vehicle was created for racing with the hopes of competing with the Italian Ferrari. If you want one of these cars in mint condition, get ready to hand over 6 figures easily to acquire this stunning racing classic.

"I saved the best for last"

The Crown Victoria

This is a straightforward sedan that provides tons of space and storage capacity. A fact that many people do not know about this classic car is that along with the 1909 Model T, both are built on frames that are separate from their bodies. The transmission is bolted behind the front-mounted engines, and they both have solid rear axles in the back of the vehicle. This car is retired from production, but if you enjoy the comfort and size of the car, if you can find a used Mercury Grand Marquis (they are no longer offered new) you will enjoy similar amenities to the Grand Victoria.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many reasons to love Ford classic cars. Numerous Ford classic fans worldwide love and devotes their life to these cars, the same as my father did. Ford Motor Company did all of us a favor in producing these classic cars. No matter your favorite classic, I am sure you will agree that Ford knew what they were doing when they created these beautiful cars for all of us to love and cherish.

Original article

Classic Mustang Fans Unite In Their Love for the First Pony Car

The Ford Mustang is a car that was produced by Ford Motor Company. In the beginning, it was created to demonstrate some of the traits of the Ford Falcon which was a compact car. Anyone who claims to be a classic Mustang fan understands that the car has undergone several transformations.

The Mustang is responsible for creating the "pony car" series. Pony cars were sports cars that contained short-rear decks and long hoods and inspired competitors to build cars such as the Camaro, Barracuda and others.

The productions of these magnificent cars began in 1964 with being introduced on April 17, 1964 at the New York World's Fair. The name derived from John Najjar who profoundly admired the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane. He is the person who suggested "Mustang" to be attached to the sports car.

As production increased on the car, they began appearing heavier and larger as each year progressed, at least until 1971 - 1973 which are the years that Ford returned the car to their original sizes. Some of the "pony cars" have since experienced a revival from competitors; the Mustang is the only true auto in the "pony" class that is still being produced without interruption over the last 4 decades.

1964 - 1973

During this time, Ford desired to reduce development costs while achieving a reasonable retail price. They relied on utilizing components derived from those used in the Fairlane (fastback) and the Falcon. This aided Ford to shorten the learning curve for repair, and assembly workers. This allowed auto dealers to pick up the 67 Mustang without spending tons of money on spare parts inventories in order to maintain a brand-new car series. What was the result of these efforts? The Boss 302 Mustang which proved popular through the early seventies, even though some consumers considered the car overweight. In 1969, the Ford Mustang Mach 1, which was a higher-end version of a Ford Mustang debuted in class as well as the GT 350 series.

1974 - 1978

Mr. Iaccoca, a leading force behind the original Mustang, achieved the position of President of Ford Motor Company in 1970, and he demanded a more fuel-efficient Mustang for the year 1974. Originally, they wanted the fuel-efficient car to be based on the Maverick but settled for the Pinto subcompact.

The new Mustang was called the "Mustang II" and was strategically introduced to the public two months after the 1973 oil crisis. The smaller size allowed the car to compete against imported cars such as the Capri and Cellica. The Mustang was available in hatchback and coupe versions. The changes were introduced in 1975 that included the reinstatement of the 302 CID V-8 options. There were other changes in appearance which came with the "Cobra II" version in 1976-77 and the "King Cobra" in 1978.

1979 - 1993

The 1979 Mustang was originally based on the Fox platform that was originally developed for the 1978 Mercury Zephyr and the Ford Fairmont. The inside of the car was re-created for four people. The body styles included a hatchback, convertible and coupe. The car was offered in trim levels of GL, GLX, L, LX, Turbo GT; 500 series (83-84), SVO (84-86), Cobra R (93), and the Cobra (79-81; 93).

During the eighties, Ford experienced decreasing sales on the Mustang due to the ever-rising costs of fuel. Ford decided to develop a new version of the "pony car" based on the Japanese-designed Mazda MX-6. Class Ford fans opposed this approach because it would mean that the car would be produced without a V-8 option. The result was creating a makeover on the existing 87 Mustang with the Probe being based on the variants from the MX-6.

1994 - 2004

The Mustang in 1994 experienced a first; redesign. The original design was based on an updated version of the rear-wheel drive Fox platform which was newly titled "Fox-4". Since 1974, Ford no longer offered a coupe model during this year. In 1999, sharper contours and the New Edge theme styles with creases in the bodywork and larger wheel arches. The basics were still there with the chassis and the interior as being the same as the previous model.

2005 - Now

Ford again in 2005 redesigned the Mustang and the changes were based on the new D2C platform. The company announced in 2007 that all 08 Mustangs will include seats that were made of soybeans. The 2009 Mustangs would come with the new option of a glass roof for somewhat of a hefty price. The 2010 models contained a new exterior and a reduced drag co-efficient of 4 percent, while the GT models 4.6 L V-8 was revised that offered 315 hp at 6,000 (rpm) and 325 lb.ft of torque at 4255 rpm. Other new features included the dampers, traction, stability control and spring rates which came standard on all models and the car offered new wheel sizes, as well.

Conclusion

Classic Ford Fans prove the most faithful to the Mustang. The car is ever-evolving and does not have any chance of going away any time soon. The love for this car has proved evident throughout the years and fans worldwide agree that the first "pony car" is the most admired car of all time.

Original article

Buying Classic Cars Online

Whether you're a classic car enthusiast, collector or investor it pays to search for vintage vehicles online. Finding old cars for sale can be a great opportunity to fix up a vintage Ford Model T or Pontiac GTO and add it to your collection or sell it for a profit. However, finding the right vehicles can be tricky since dealers can distort photos and details of an old car to cover up dents, high mileage and faulty parts. By starting your search online you can avoid wasting time by getting a great look at a classic car through multiple color photographs and reading up on a detailed description of the vehicle.

Anytime you are looking to buy a vehicle, be it a vintage car or modern truck, you have to be prepared for some salesmanship. Car dealers are well known for making every car sound like a bargain and as a buyer you need to be aware of these tactics and how to negotiate so you get the best deal possible. Rather than drive to a used car lot or sift through dated newspapers and auto trader magazines the best way to start a search for an old or classic car is to start online.

First, by browsing vintage cars online you are relaxed and can spend as much time as you want looking over a vehicle while opening another browse to research the specific vehicle and what previous owners have to say about it. When you go in person to check out a car there is always pressure from the seller to get you to buy it ASAP. Avoid pushy salesmen by taking your time on a classic car classified site where you can look through multiple photographs of a specific vehicle, read the detailed description of the car from the seller and compare the price against other models available.

Another reason to shop for classic cars online is that information about a vintage or antique vehicle may be hard to come by. It's easy to find facts about current cars but try asking about vintage Studebakers and Buick Road Masters and you're likely to get blank stares. When you shop online you have the capability of using search engines and auto trader sites to get valuable information about older cars such as original engines, standard features and any known defects. Being able to research this information in the comfort of your own home will allow you to learn more about the vintage car you are interested in buying without having to listen to the seller's spiel.

Lastly, browsing for classic cars on the web let's you compare similar vehicles at the same time. If you simply go to a used car lot or the home of a car seller you can't thoroughly assess the vehicle because you're only seeing one model. With the web you can pull up several exact makes and models to see if the one you're interested in measures up. Having time to be patient and make informed decisions will make buying classic cars online much easier and less stressful.

For a great selection of rare cars visit Antiquecar.com where you'll find a terrific selection of vintage Ford Model T's, classic Chevy Nova muscle cars and many other old cars for sale.

Original article

Find Classic Muscle Cars For Restoration

We all know that it can be a hard thing to find just the right classic muscle car for restoration. Obviously you need to be very picky if your going to get just the right car to start with. It's just not an easy process to locate a good car for a restoration project.

In this article I will try to demystify the process of locating just the right car for you. If you have done one of these projects in the past, you can obviously handle a little tougher of a project car. But for this article like most of my other articles I will stick to the beginner theme.

A restoration project is supposed to be a fun thing. You should not get a complete junker to start with, the idea is to find a car that you can complete the restoration on. A car that won't be pushed to the back yard to rot in the elements.

With that in mind let's talk about the price you should plan to spend on a good car for restoration. There is no such a thing as a $2,500 dollar classic car that is anything more then junk. Remember what I said at the first. Unless you have already done a restoration you should stay away from junk to start with.

You should put aside about $10,000 for a good starter restoration project car. In my eyes a good starter car is one that has very little to no rust in the body and no burned electrical wiring. Get a sound car mechanically, you can find this for about $10,000.

You should evaluate your skills to restore the car, and get a car that fits in to your skill set. If you're a good mechanic you should look toward a car that may need more mechanical work then body repair, or electrical work. Keep in mind that you will enjoy the project a lot more if the car leans more toward your skill set.

I'm by no means saying that you can't learn all of the processes that you need to know to perform a car restoration. What I am saying is this, if you are able to get a lot of the work done by yourself it will build your confidence and you will have more fun.

When looking for cars for restoration, you should consider how hard the parts my be to find. If the parts are readily available for the car that you choose to restore the project will flow a lot smoother. If you think of all of the things that may slow you down during the project, and look for the ways around those problems you should be all good with the work.

It's a good day when you realize that you have found the perfect car for restoration, and you know that you can afford to buy that car and start the project. You buy the car and load it on the trailer, or if your the lucky type of person you drive it home.

Now you can begin the project, you can inspect the car and start to develop your parts list. Yes the time has come to do your first car restoration project. Good luck enjoy the process and learn all you can about the car "KUDOS" to you for having the balls to do it.

I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is.

car Restoration

Muscle Car Restoration

Original article

Classic Plymouth Fans: History of Plymouth and Their Muscle Cars

Classic Plymouth fans know that muscle cars from their favorite auto production company were known from the beginning for their fancy-looking cars and their sportiness. In the sixties and seventies, Plymouth prided themselves on large engines and inspiring consumers.

Somewhere in between all this madness, they branded themselves with the Big Boys of Muscle Cars. Plymouth has proved competitive when it comes to horsepower. One exception was the 413 Wedge, but out of the ashes, came the success of the Mopar's 410 bhp 413 V-8.

The Roadking P9 was priced higher than the other Plymouth cars of their generation in 1939. These cars were offered in four-door and two-door and two-passenger coupe models. The four-door models proved most popular with consumers.

This company was known for their hot engines and winning races on the track. In 1967, the first muscle-imaged collection was placed in the GTX. This Satellite-based car stood tall with a 375 bhp 440 cid V-8 engine and only offered the Hemi as the engine option. This car was the first of its kind in midsized cars to display sport-up hood scoops, bucket seats, exciting emblems, large wheels and redline tires. This car was the epitome of Muscle Cars.

Plymouth proved their innovation with the Valiant-based Barracuda in 1964. The first cars of this type were strong performers. The 1965 Barracuda contained balanced handling with a 235 bhp 273 cid lifter V-8 engine. In 1967, the company went all out with offering a 383 cid big-block to the options. In 1969, the "Cuda" had a 440 cid V-8 engine.

In the early seventies, the Hemi Cuda proved arduous, and remains a highly-desired choice among Muscle Car enthusiasts. The most sought after version of the car is the seventy-version with the spoilered, and striped exterior. The Cuda and Duster were laid to rest in 1975 and was nothing but a memory when the division that produced the cars closed for good in 2001.

The Satellite was introduced in 1965 as part of the Belvedere production line. This car proved strong in sales until 1967. With the decline in sales, it was converted to a middle of the line priced model with the GTX. The Fury name was then transferred to Plymouth's middle-sized models in 1975. Plymouth then allowed the Satellite name to quietly disappear.

Plymouth at one point decided to gussy up the Valiant Scamp calling it a Brougham and consumers went totally nuts over the car with purchasing over 127,000 of them. The company admits that this car was never a high-performing car, but they delight in the memories of its popularity at one time in history.

In 1997, the Prowler was born (later becoming Chrysler Prowler). This car was also built in 1999 and 2002. The first version could reach 62 miles an hour in 7.2 seconds. The top-speed of this model was 118 miles per hour. The 1999 and 2002 model could reach 62 miles per hour in 5.9 seconds with a top-speed of 126 miles per hour. The 2001 and 2002 models were sold as Chrysler Prowler's, but DaimlerChrysler strategically marketed the car as a Plymouth in Canada for the 2000 models with this car being the last Plymouth ever sold in Canada.

Classic Plymouth car fans enjoy finding these muscle cars for restoration, or if they have the money, and luck, in mint condition. Plymouth Muscle Cars is still an obsession with the sport car enthusiasts. No matter how innovative or fast the current "muscle" cars seem to be, one thing is for sure, they will never have the clout of the Plymouth Muscle Cars.

Original article