? ? Cool Cars We Miss ? ?
#1
08-29-2011, 05:10 AM
? ? Cool Cars We Miss ? ?
Hi Member's, which of the below cars do you miss ?
Which one would you want ?
What cars do you wish were still produced ?
Look 4ward to reading your post(s) ~> Thanks
Cool Cars We Miss
Gone but not forgotten—a short list of cars once loved, still missed.
<CITE sizset="128" sizcache="33">By Evan Griffey of MSN Autos</CITE>
Click to enlarge picture
Dubbed as the "Ferrari fighter" at one time, the NSX stayed on the market for 15 years with very few updates.
Some cars are so fun to drive, so pure in design, and so innovative that it makes you wonder how they could ever be discontinued. For each generation of car enthusiasts, these are the machines that make you smile even if you never owned one.
Outlined here in alphabetical order is a small slice of recent successes and upcoming cult classics that haunt the minds of enthusiasts. Destined to be the "barn finds" of future generations, the upside is that many are now within easy reach via the used-car classifieds at AutoTrader.
Acura NSX (1990 - 2005)
As the NSX sped toward production, Honda was in the midst of dominating the F1 World Championship. This, plus a healthy Japanese economy allowed engineers to make decisions that were unheard of at the time, based on performance instead of bottom-line cost or mass production efficiency. The "Ferrari fighter" featured the first use of Honda's VTEC variable valve timing system outside Japan, titanium connecting rods, individual coils, magnesium intake and valve covers, an aluminum monocoque chassis and aluminum body panels.
The NSX's mid-ship mounted DOHV V6 makes only 290 horsepower. But the car's light weight, incredible balance and reliability—coupled with low sales expectations—allowed it to stay on the market an incredible 15 years with very few updates. The NSX nameplate is slated to make a comeback in 2009.
Did you own one of these cars? Are there others that should be on the list? Tell us what you think!
Buick Grand National (1984 - 1987)
The "GN" was originally created to celebrate Buick's manufacturer championships (1981-1982) in NASCAR's Grand National (now Busch) series. The 1982 Grand National was a hopped-up version of the two-door Regal, but moved to its own production model for 1984. Grand Nationals from 1986 and 1987 are the most desirable because they were factory intercooled. In 1987, the Grand National was GM's swiftest product, hence the moniker, "We BrakeFor Corvettes."
Buick had a hit on its hands, as Grand National sales went from 5,512 for the 1986 model, to 20,194 in 1987. Unfortunately, the automotive climate conspired against the Grand National. The entire GM sedan lineup moved to front-wheel drive in 1988, dropping the red flag on the all-black speedster.
Dodge Omni GLH (1985 - 1988)
Carroll Shelby developed this car, and other turbo models, during a stint at Chrysler. The initial name of the car was "Coyote," because it was aiming at the Rabbit GTI. This name didn't fly, so in true Texas gunslinger fashion Shelby came up with GLH, which stood for "Goes Like Hell."
The GLH helped inspire the hot hatch craze with a factory turbocharged, 146-horsepower single-cam 2.2-liter four. Chrysler would make good use of this turbo engine as it saw action in the Shelby Charger, Daytona, Dodge Spirit R/T and a number of other sporty models debuting while David Hasselhoff and K.I.T.T. were fighting injustices Knight Foundation style. Sadly, the car was ahead of its time, hitting the highway before there was a real small-car aftermarket to embrace it.
Mazda RX-7 (1993 - 1996)
The third-generation of the RX-7 represented the pinnacle of Mazda's prowess in turbocharging the Wankel rotary engine. The 255-horsepower 13B-REW mill was supremely tunable, and powered a road-racing-capable chassis—evidenced by its impressive showings in factory-backed endurance competition and grassroots events like the SCCA Runoffs.
The RX-7 has grown into a cult classic, which translates into a happy existence in the hereafter via aftermarket upgrades. Market trends away from high-ticket sports cars and toward SUVs put the seductively styled coupe out to pasture.
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 (1991 - 1992)
The Galant VR-4 is another limited-edition machine with a cult following. Mitsubishi created a wicked sleeper by grafting the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive 4G63 powertrain from the first-generation Eclipse / Talon into a monochromatic four-door Galant sedan.
These cars, known as "Evo Zeros," were hand-built in Japan and readily accepted most of the aftermarket tuning parts designed for the Eclipse/Talon. That meant nearly unlimited tuning options, as the 4G63 created a hardcore following as one of the most popular and longest-running import-engine lines. The latest variant of this motor powers the Lancer Evolution IX. Production of the Galant VR-4 was limited to 4000.
Toyota Celica All-Trac (1988 - 1993)
Celica All-Tracs are divided into two model runs. The All-Trac ST165 was produced between 1987 and 1989 as a homologation for Toyota's competition in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The ST185 was born when Toyota redesigned the rest of the Celica lineup in 1990.
The ST185 featured a number of performance improvements, including a twin-entry turbo and an air-to-air intercooler. These tweaks allowed the car's 3S-GTE engine to produce 200 horsepower. The significance of the All-Trac can be seen in its resale value: $7,000 to $12,000 for well-kept ST185s. Carlos Sainz won the 1990 WRC driver's championship in a Celica All-Trac, and the car's run ended when Toyota stepped out of WRC competition.
Toyota Supra (1993 - 1998)
Timing was a key factor in the Toyota Supra's rise to becoming the ultimate symbol of high-tech horsepower. The new Supra arrived right when the tuner aftermarket was beginning to explode. The sleek, technically advanced coupe featured a 320-horsepower, twin-turbocharged inline six powerplant, six-speed manual transmission and a drivetrain that begged for abuse. At the time, the MKIV Supra was an expensive date with prices in the mid-$40K range. Its cost and single-minded performance-car mission were its undoing when low-cost, highly versatile SUVs became the rage in the mid-1990s.
VW Corrado VR6 (1990 - 1995)
Replacing the popular Scirocco, the Corrado did not become a Euro-spec performance icon until VW installed its innovative VR6 engine in the sporty hatch in 1992. The VR6-mill is part V-engine and part inline engine, with its cylinder bores separated by a scant 15 degrees and staggered from one side to the other. This was done to allow a six-cylinder engine to fit transversely in VWs front-wheel-drive cars. In the Corrado, the 2.8-liter VR6 pumped out 178 horsepower and a hearty 177 lbs-ft of torque.
Today the VR6 is alive and well, having been expanded to displace 3.2 liters and fitted to the Audi TT, VW Touareg, MKV Golf R32 and Passat R36 where it now generates 300 horsepower. The VW Corrado VR6 is coveted because of its seductive styling, road handling capabilities and its role as trailblazer, introducing the VR6 to the American market.
Future Barn-Find Fodder
Click to enlarge picture
Even though it's been almost 10 model years, the Supra has continued to be a hot car especially with tuners.
Click to enlarge picture
Mazda really hit it big with the third-generation RX-7. Its rotary engine isn't meant to be a high mileage car but it sure was fun to drive.
Click to enlarge picture
Originally created to celebrate Buick's championships, the Grand National was fast enough to be compared to Corvettes.
Click to enlarge picture
Appearing in the near future in the "Cool Cars We Miss" list will
Which one would you want ?
What cars do you wish were still produced ?
Look 4ward to reading your post(s) ~> Thanks
Cool Cars We Miss
Gone but not forgotten—a short list of cars once loved, still missed.
<CITE sizset="128" sizcache="33">By Evan Griffey of MSN Autos</CITE>
Click to enlarge pictureDubbed as the "Ferrari fighter" at one time, the NSX stayed on the market for 15 years with very few updates.
Some cars are so fun to drive, so pure in design, and so innovative that it makes you wonder how they could ever be discontinued. For each generation of car enthusiasts, these are the machines that make you smile even if you never owned one.
Outlined here in alphabetical order is a small slice of recent successes and upcoming cult classics that haunt the minds of enthusiasts. Destined to be the "barn finds" of future generations, the upside is that many are now within easy reach via the used-car classifieds at AutoTrader.
Acura NSX (1990 - 2005)
As the NSX sped toward production, Honda was in the midst of dominating the F1 World Championship. This, plus a healthy Japanese economy allowed engineers to make decisions that were unheard of at the time, based on performance instead of bottom-line cost or mass production efficiency. The "Ferrari fighter" featured the first use of Honda's VTEC variable valve timing system outside Japan, titanium connecting rods, individual coils, magnesium intake and valve covers, an aluminum monocoque chassis and aluminum body panels.
The NSX's mid-ship mounted DOHV V6 makes only 290 horsepower. But the car's light weight, incredible balance and reliability—coupled with low sales expectations—allowed it to stay on the market an incredible 15 years with very few updates. The NSX nameplate is slated to make a comeback in 2009.
Did you own one of these cars? Are there others that should be on the list? Tell us what you think!
Buick Grand National (1984 - 1987)
The "GN" was originally created to celebrate Buick's manufacturer championships (1981-1982) in NASCAR's Grand National (now Busch) series. The 1982 Grand National was a hopped-up version of the two-door Regal, but moved to its own production model for 1984. Grand Nationals from 1986 and 1987 are the most desirable because they were factory intercooled. In 1987, the Grand National was GM's swiftest product, hence the moniker, "We BrakeFor Corvettes."
Buick had a hit on its hands, as Grand National sales went from 5,512 for the 1986 model, to 20,194 in 1987. Unfortunately, the automotive climate conspired against the Grand National. The entire GM sedan lineup moved to front-wheel drive in 1988, dropping the red flag on the all-black speedster.
Dodge Omni GLH (1985 - 1988)
Carroll Shelby developed this car, and other turbo models, during a stint at Chrysler. The initial name of the car was "Coyote," because it was aiming at the Rabbit GTI. This name didn't fly, so in true Texas gunslinger fashion Shelby came up with GLH, which stood for "Goes Like Hell."
The GLH helped inspire the hot hatch craze with a factory turbocharged, 146-horsepower single-cam 2.2-liter four. Chrysler would make good use of this turbo engine as it saw action in the Shelby Charger, Daytona, Dodge Spirit R/T and a number of other sporty models debuting while David Hasselhoff and K.I.T.T. were fighting injustices Knight Foundation style. Sadly, the car was ahead of its time, hitting the highway before there was a real small-car aftermarket to embrace it.
Mazda RX-7 (1993 - 1996)
The third-generation of the RX-7 represented the pinnacle of Mazda's prowess in turbocharging the Wankel rotary engine. The 255-horsepower 13B-REW mill was supremely tunable, and powered a road-racing-capable chassis—evidenced by its impressive showings in factory-backed endurance competition and grassroots events like the SCCA Runoffs.
The RX-7 has grown into a cult classic, which translates into a happy existence in the hereafter via aftermarket upgrades. Market trends away from high-ticket sports cars and toward SUVs put the seductively styled coupe out to pasture.
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 (1991 - 1992)
The Galant VR-4 is another limited-edition machine with a cult following. Mitsubishi created a wicked sleeper by grafting the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive 4G63 powertrain from the first-generation Eclipse / Talon into a monochromatic four-door Galant sedan.
These cars, known as "Evo Zeros," were hand-built in Japan and readily accepted most of the aftermarket tuning parts designed for the Eclipse/Talon. That meant nearly unlimited tuning options, as the 4G63 created a hardcore following as one of the most popular and longest-running import-engine lines. The latest variant of this motor powers the Lancer Evolution IX. Production of the Galant VR-4 was limited to 4000.
Toyota Celica All-Trac (1988 - 1993)
Celica All-Tracs are divided into two model runs. The All-Trac ST165 was produced between 1987 and 1989 as a homologation for Toyota's competition in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The ST185 was born when Toyota redesigned the rest of the Celica lineup in 1990.
The ST185 featured a number of performance improvements, including a twin-entry turbo and an air-to-air intercooler. These tweaks allowed the car's 3S-GTE engine to produce 200 horsepower. The significance of the All-Trac can be seen in its resale value: $7,000 to $12,000 for well-kept ST185s. Carlos Sainz won the 1990 WRC driver's championship in a Celica All-Trac, and the car's run ended when Toyota stepped out of WRC competition.
Toyota Supra (1993 - 1998)
Timing was a key factor in the Toyota Supra's rise to becoming the ultimate symbol of high-tech horsepower. The new Supra arrived right when the tuner aftermarket was beginning to explode. The sleek, technically advanced coupe featured a 320-horsepower, twin-turbocharged inline six powerplant, six-speed manual transmission and a drivetrain that begged for abuse. At the time, the MKIV Supra was an expensive date with prices in the mid-$40K range. Its cost and single-minded performance-car mission were its undoing when low-cost, highly versatile SUVs became the rage in the mid-1990s.
VW Corrado VR6 (1990 - 1995)
Replacing the popular Scirocco, the Corrado did not become a Euro-spec performance icon until VW installed its innovative VR6 engine in the sporty hatch in 1992. The VR6-mill is part V-engine and part inline engine, with its cylinder bores separated by a scant 15 degrees and staggered from one side to the other. This was done to allow a six-cylinder engine to fit transversely in VWs front-wheel-drive cars. In the Corrado, the 2.8-liter VR6 pumped out 178 horsepower and a hearty 177 lbs-ft of torque.
Today the VR6 is alive and well, having been expanded to displace 3.2 liters and fitted to the Audi TT, VW Touareg, MKV Golf R32 and Passat R36 where it now generates 300 horsepower. The VW Corrado VR6 is coveted because of its seductive styling, road handling capabilities and its role as trailblazer, introducing the VR6 to the American market.
Future Barn-Find Fodder
Click to enlarge picture
Even though it's been almost 10 model years, the Supra has continued to be a hot car especially with tuners.
Click to enlarge picture
Mazda really hit it big with the third-generation RX-7. Its rotary engine isn't meant to be a high mileage car but it sure was fun to drive.
Click to enlarge picture
Originally created to celebrate Buick's championships, the Grand National was fast enough to be compared to Corvettes.
Click to enlarge picture
Appearing in the near future in the "Cool Cars We Miss" list will
- <LI sizset="155" sizcache="33">Alfa Romeo Spider <LI sizset="156" sizcache="33">Ford GT
- Ford Mustang SVO<LI sizset="157" sizcache="33">Ford Taurus SHO <LI sizset="158" sizcache="33">Isuzu Impulse <LI sizset="159" sizcache="33">Jaguar XJ-SV12
- Lotus Elan<LI sizset="160" sizcache="33">Lotus Esprit Turbo <LI sizset="161" sizcache="33">Mazda 323 GTX <LI sizset="162" sizcache="33">Merkur XR4Ti <LI sizset="163" sizcache="33">Nissan Sentra SE-R (Classic 1991-1993) <LI sizset="164" sizcache="33">Pontiac Fiero <LI sizset="165" sizcache="33">Porsche 928 <LI sizset="166" sizcache="33">Saab 9000 Turbo <LI sizset="167" sizcache="33">Suzuki Swift GT
- Toyota MR2
Last edited by Space; 08-29-2011 at 05:14 AM.
#2
08-29-2011, 05:21 AM
A few we won't Miss ? 
or will we ? ~>
<TABLE style="WIDTH: 98%" align=center><TBODY><TR><TD class=style10>Last Yugo</TD><TD style="WIDTH: 15%"></TD></TR><TR><TD>The last Yugo rolls off the assembly line November 11, 2008
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD class=style11>Although the Yugo was not imported into the US after 1991, these East-European 4-wheeled tin cans were quietly in production up until November 2008.
In the U.S. the Yugo is best remembered as being the Euro-equivalent to the Edsel or Aztek, as it was most often on the receiving end of jokes, some of which are:
Why does a Yugo have a defroster on the rear window? To keep your hands warm while you push it.
What do you call a Yugo's shock absorbers? Passengers.
The Yugo came out with an air bag. Before an accident you had to start pumping real fast though.
How do you double the value of a Yugo? Fill the gas tank!
What do you call a Yugo at the top of a hill? A miracle.
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD class=style3><HR></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD class=style3>Some other automobiles that are not missed.</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>Peel Trident 1965-1966</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD style="HEIGHT: 78px">The Peel Trident was a “shopping car” built on the Isle of Man. Along with the bubblelicious BMW Isetta and the fiberglass Reliant Robin, the Trident was ridiculed for its small size and three wheels. The Trident featured a clear bubble top and either two seats or one seat with a detachable shopping basket.
</TD><TD style="HEIGHT: 78px"></TD></TR><TR><TD><HR></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>Renault Dauphine 1956 - 1967
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>Underpowered, prone to rust and imported from France. With an anemic rear-engine driving the rear wheels, the bug-eyed Dauphine was capable of a 0-60 sprint in a leisurely 37 seconds. It topped out at 70, but we wouldn’t recommend any speeds over 35 on a road that presents such challenges as curves or wind. Despite its drawbacks, its low price made it a million-seller in Europe faster than any car that came before it.
In 2002, the auto enthusiasts' radio show Car Talk named the Dauphine the 9th Worst Car Of The Millennium, calling it "truly unencumbered by the engineering process". In 2007, Time named it one of the 50 worst cars of all time, calling it "the most ineffective bit of French engineering since the Maginot Line" and noting that it could actually be heard rusting.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
or will we ? ~><TABLE style="WIDTH: 98%" align=center><TBODY><TR><TD class=style10>Last Yugo</TD><TD style="WIDTH: 15%"></TD></TR><TR><TD>The last Yugo rolls off the assembly line November 11, 2008
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD class=style11>Although the Yugo was not imported into the US after 1991, these East-European 4-wheeled tin cans were quietly in production up until November 2008.
In the U.S. the Yugo is best remembered as being the Euro-equivalent to the Edsel or Aztek, as it was most often on the receiving end of jokes, some of which are:
Why does a Yugo have a defroster on the rear window? To keep your hands warm while you push it.
What do you call a Yugo's shock absorbers? Passengers.
The Yugo came out with an air bag. Before an accident you had to start pumping real fast though.
How do you double the value of a Yugo? Fill the gas tank!
What do you call a Yugo at the top of a hill? A miracle.
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD class=style3><HR></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD class=style3>Some other automobiles that are not missed.</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>Peel Trident 1965-1966</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD style="HEIGHT: 78px">The Peel Trident was a “shopping car” built on the Isle of Man. Along with the bubblelicious BMW Isetta and the fiberglass Reliant Robin, the Trident was ridiculed for its small size and three wheels. The Trident featured a clear bubble top and either two seats or one seat with a detachable shopping basket.</TD><TD style="HEIGHT: 78px"></TD></TR><TR><TD><HR></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD></TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>Renault Dauphine 1956 - 1967
</TD><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD>Underpowered, prone to rust and imported from France. With an anemic rear-engine driving the rear wheels, the bug-eyed Dauphine was capable of a 0-60 sprint in a leisurely 37 seconds. It topped out at 70, but we wouldn’t recommend any speeds over 35 on a road that presents such challenges as curves or wind. Despite its drawbacks, its low price made it a million-seller in Europe faster than any car that came before it.
In 2002, the auto enthusiasts' radio show Car Talk named the Dauphine the 9th Worst Car Of The Millennium, calling it "truly unencumbered by the engineering process". In 2007, Time named it one of the 50 worst cars of all time, calling it "the most ineffective bit of French engineering since the Maginot Line" and noting that it could actually be heard rusting.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
#3
08-29-2011, 06:48 AM
Love the Yugo jokes, Space!
I actually kind of miss the Supra. Toyota's one great car, and they quit producing it!!!
I actually kind of miss the Supra. Toyota's one great car, and they quit producing it!!!
#4
08-29-2011, 08:09 AM
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Staten Island, New York
Posts: 1,035
Everyone knows what I want, was never a big fan of the original but I'd love to see it return:
A Chevelle would be nice to see...and not a G8 Rebadge but a retro version.
Joe
A Chevelle would be nice to see...and not a G8 Rebadge but a retro version.
Joe
#5
08-30-2011, 07:28 AM
The Best 10 Vintage Cars – Ever Classics
By Julie-Ann Amos
Introduction
There’s just something about old cars… the power, the beauty, the sheer majesty of a machine that’s recognized and respected the world over. The definitions of “vintage” and “classic” cars may vary slightly depending upon where you live and who you ask, but some cars just seem to stand out a bit from the rest; even when compared to modern cars that are loaded with features and which can top speeds that were once thought impossible, these cars are quick to be noticed and fawned over by their fans. Fast cars are great, and groundbreaking new features can definitely get the crowd to “ooh” and “ahh”… but even the most high tech example of modern automotive engineering pales in comparison to the breathtaking beauty and style of some of these true classics.
Of course, the cars that make the list of the best vintage cars ever will differ slightly depending on who’s making the list; different individuals may pick out different model years, or other cars which aren’t included on this specific listing. It’s not easy picking out just 10 cars from all of the amazing machines that have graced the roads and raceways over the years, so feel free to disagree with some of these choices if your favorite vintage ride didn’t make the top 10.
1927 Ford Model T
See all 11 photos
Picture of non-black 1927 Model T at Greenfield Village, photo by rmhermen
When looking at vintage cars, it’s hard to surpass the enduring style and legacy of the Model T. This car is generally viewed as being the first affordable production automobile, and set the standard for what a classic car should look like way back in 1908. A variety of changes were made to the design of the Model T during the 19 years that it was in production, culminating in the 1927 model that is still sought after by collectors and makers of classic reproductions today.
The Model T (or the Tin Lizzie, as it was often called) is a great example of how a car doesn’t have to be the fastest available to still be revered by those who appreciate great vehicles; even though it only had two gears, the Model T was still voted “Car of the Century” in 1999, beating out other classics such as the Volkswagen Beetle, the Mini, and the Porche 911 with a considerable lead.
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1969 Corvette Sting Ray (no, it's NOT Stingray it's Sting Ray)
Next we have a car that needs no introduction… from its instantly recognizable body shape to the iconic crossed-flags emblem, it’s hard to imagine any listing of the greatest vintage cars of all time that doesn’t include some version of the Corvette. One of the cars that defined American muscle in the 60’s, Chevrolet’s Corvette Sting Ray coupe is quite possibly one of the most famous cars ever produced. Corvettes have appeared as centerpieces for countless movies, and ever since production started on this classic line they’ve been seen as a definition of simplicity and style.
The 1969 Corvette Sting Ray saw the peak of Corvette cool, before automotive styles began to change and the Corvette shifted to the changes it would feature in the 70’s and 80’s. The ’69 Stingray featured a split rear suspension, disc brakes, a “big block” engine, side exhaust pipes, the classic split rear window of the Sting Ray, and a variety of other features that make it remain a highly desired car even to this day.
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1967 Ford Mustang
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When looking at American muscle cars like the ’69 Sting Ray, you can’t overlook the Mustang from the Ford Motor Company. Even today, filmmakers and producers look to the Mustangs of the 60’s when they want a vehicle that conveys pure power and indomitable force… and nothing does this better than the 1967 Mustang. It was in ’67 that the Mustang received its first real increases in length and height, and it was given a wider body frame which allowed for the inclusion on a “big block” engine to give this beast plenty of horsepower. This was combined with a variety of extra vintage car parts giving features such as power disc brakes, a tilt steering wheel, and the innovative FMX transmission which allowed for fully automatic shifting in addition to manual shifting.
1969 Camaro SS
It seems that 1969 was a very good year for Chevrolet. In addition to producing a classic powerhouse like the ’69 Corvette Sting Ray, Chevy also released the last model in the first generation of Camaros. The ’69 Camaro SS featured a sporty look that still was obviously aggressive (thanks to a new sheet metal body, deep-set headlights, a redesigned grill, and a variety of other design changes.) Chevrolet allowed for some changes in their ordering process for this model year as well, which let dealers order Camaros with engines over the usual limit of 400 cc (6.6 L)… this resulted in Camaros featuring 427 engines, and helped to establish the Camaro’s reputation as a powerful machine that refused to back down.
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1948 Tucker
Photo by Sean O'Flaherty
The Tucker was truly an innovation in the world of automotive design, and though the 1948 model was the only model ever produced its effect on the world of automobiles can still be felt to this day. Preston Tucker and Alex Tremulis designed the Tucker as an attempt to break into the automotive industry, and though only a handful of cars were produced the features that were present in those cars were extremely innovative for the time.
1948 Tucker plans
Though the Tucker was doomed to failure due to SEC lawsuits and behind-the-scenes activities by major automotive companies who didn’t want an independent automotive manufacturer to succeed, a significant number of the 51 Tuckers produced are still road-worthy and are considered to be one of the ultimate automotive collectibles for those lucky enough to be able to get their hands on one.
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1967 Volkswagen Beetle
photo taken by Morio
Though it’s not a powerhouse like some of the other cars on this list, the 1967 Volkswagen Beetle is instantly recognizable and could quite possibly be one of the more famous vehicles ever produced. Originally known simply as the Volkswagen Type 1, by 1967 the German motor company decided to embrace the nicknames such as the “Beetle” and “Bug” that their car had received by an adoring public. The ’67 Beetle featured a variety of improvements over its predecessors in addition to formally adopting it’s new name; a new drivetrain was included, the engine was made larger, and the electrical generator doubled its output as it was converted to a 12V system. Additional changes were also made to the braking system, clutch disc, and various other features, making the ’67 Beetle a functionally different car than anything that had come before, and it's one on this list that won't sting you TOO badly for vintage car insurance!.
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1964 Porsche 911
Any list of classic cars wouldn’t be complete without an entry featuring the Porsche 911, which was originally developed as a replacement for the smaller and less comfortable Porsche 356 (and also as somewhat of a more sporting evolution of the Volkswagen Beetle, as many of the early Porsche cars used parts from Volkswagen vehicles.) When introduced in 1964, the 911 featured an air-cooled rear mounted engine and a five speed manual transmission. Though it contained four seats, the rear seats were very small and many considered it to be a “2 + 2” vehicle as opposed to a true four-seater. Though the Porsche 911 has remained in production since its original introduction, many still prefer the older models for their classical styling and air-cooled engines (as the company changed to water-cooled engines in 1998.)
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1962 Maserati 3500
The Maserati 3500 was created in an attempt to allow the Maserati company to tap into the growing Grand Turismo market, resulting in a classic car that not only had competitive power but was also able to keep up with many of the innovations of the time. When the car was first introduced in 1957, it featured a variety of changes to the design of the initial prototype; by 1962, a number of additional options had been added as standard features. The ’62 Maserati 3500 featured front and rear disc brakes, a limited slip differential, power windows, leather interior seating, and all of the power that one might expect from its six-cylinder engine and four-speed transmission. The 3500 would also serve as the basis for other Maserati products, such as the 3500 GTi (which was introduced as the first Italian production car featuring fuel injection.)
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1967 Ford GT40
Another powerhouse from Ford in the 1960’s, the Ford GT40 was designed primarily as a racing car (though according to race rules, at least a limited number of the cars had to be made available for sale to private owners.) The GT40 had been intended as a primary competitor against the cars being made by Ferrari, after an attempt to buy the Ferrari company by Ford Motors fell through in 1963. Different versions of the car were produced, labeled Mark I, Mark II, and Mark III, with the differences being largely the engine size and (in the case of the Mark III) the purpose for which the car was designed and built. As these cars were designed primarily for limited use in Grand Turismo races, any collector who owns an original ’67 GT40 considers himself quite lucky indeed.
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1953 Aston Martin DB2
Image (c) Peter Madle the internet guide to STUTZ cars history and models
The Aston Martin DB2 was developed in 1950 as a replacement for the previous Aston Martin 2-Litre Sports car. It featured a larger, dual overhead cam straight 6 engine, and was originally designed as a closed coupe racing car. By 1953, a convertible version of this classic car had also been introduced as well as engine options which provided for additional horsepower. Though the DB2 was only in production for 3 years, it served as a basis for many other Aston Martin vehicles which proved to be very popular both on the racetrack and as a road car.
Member's, Which one do you like/want ?
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By Julie-Ann Amos
Introduction
There’s just something about old cars… the power, the beauty, the sheer majesty of a machine that’s recognized and respected the world over. The definitions of “vintage” and “classic” cars may vary slightly depending upon where you live and who you ask, but some cars just seem to stand out a bit from the rest; even when compared to modern cars that are loaded with features and which can top speeds that were once thought impossible, these cars are quick to be noticed and fawned over by their fans. Fast cars are great, and groundbreaking new features can definitely get the crowd to “ooh” and “ahh”… but even the most high tech example of modern automotive engineering pales in comparison to the breathtaking beauty and style of some of these true classics.
Of course, the cars that make the list of the best vintage cars ever will differ slightly depending on who’s making the list; different individuals may pick out different model years, or other cars which aren’t included on this specific listing. It’s not easy picking out just 10 cars from all of the amazing machines that have graced the roads and raceways over the years, so feel free to disagree with some of these choices if your favorite vintage ride didn’t make the top 10.
1927 Ford Model T
See all 11 photos Picture of non-black 1927 Model T at Greenfield Village, photo by rmhermen
When looking at vintage cars, it’s hard to surpass the enduring style and legacy of the Model T. This car is generally viewed as being the first affordable production automobile, and set the standard for what a classic car should look like way back in 1908. A variety of changes were made to the design of the Model T during the 19 years that it was in production, culminating in the 1927 model that is still sought after by collectors and makers of classic reproductions today.
The Model T (or the Tin Lizzie, as it was often called) is a great example of how a car doesn’t have to be the fastest available to still be revered by those who appreciate great vehicles; even though it only had two gears, the Model T was still voted “Car of the Century” in 1999, beating out other classics such as the Volkswagen Beetle, the Mini, and the Porche 911 with a considerable lead.
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1969 Corvette Sting Ray (no, it's NOT Stingray it's Sting Ray)
Next we have a car that needs no introduction… from its instantly recognizable body shape to the iconic crossed-flags emblem, it’s hard to imagine any listing of the greatest vintage cars of all time that doesn’t include some version of the Corvette. One of the cars that defined American muscle in the 60’s, Chevrolet’s Corvette Sting Ray coupe is quite possibly one of the most famous cars ever produced. Corvettes have appeared as centerpieces for countless movies, and ever since production started on this classic line they’ve been seen as a definition of simplicity and style.
The 1969 Corvette Sting Ray saw the peak of Corvette cool, before automotive styles began to change and the Corvette shifted to the changes it would feature in the 70’s and 80’s. The ’69 Stingray featured a split rear suspension, disc brakes, a “big block” engine, side exhaust pipes, the classic split rear window of the Sting Ray, and a variety of other features that make it remain a highly desired car even to this day.
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1967 Ford Mustang
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When looking at American muscle cars like the ’69 Sting Ray, you can’t overlook the Mustang from the Ford Motor Company. Even today, filmmakers and producers look to the Mustangs of the 60’s when they want a vehicle that conveys pure power and indomitable force… and nothing does this better than the 1967 Mustang. It was in ’67 that the Mustang received its first real increases in length and height, and it was given a wider body frame which allowed for the inclusion on a “big block” engine to give this beast plenty of horsepower. This was combined with a variety of extra vintage car parts giving features such as power disc brakes, a tilt steering wheel, and the innovative FMX transmission which allowed for fully automatic shifting in addition to manual shifting.
1969 Camaro SS
It seems that 1969 was a very good year for Chevrolet. In addition to producing a classic powerhouse like the ’69 Corvette Sting Ray, Chevy also released the last model in the first generation of Camaros. The ’69 Camaro SS featured a sporty look that still was obviously aggressive (thanks to a new sheet metal body, deep-set headlights, a redesigned grill, and a variety of other design changes.) Chevrolet allowed for some changes in their ordering process for this model year as well, which let dealers order Camaros with engines over the usual limit of 400 cc (6.6 L)… this resulted in Camaros featuring 427 engines, and helped to establish the Camaro’s reputation as a powerful machine that refused to back down.
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1948 Tucker
Photo by Sean O'Flaherty
The Tucker was truly an innovation in the world of automotive design, and though the 1948 model was the only model ever produced its effect on the world of automobiles can still be felt to this day. Preston Tucker and Alex Tremulis designed the Tucker as an attempt to break into the automotive industry, and though only a handful of cars were produced the features that were present in those cars were extremely innovative for the time.
1948 Tucker plans
Though the Tucker was doomed to failure due to SEC lawsuits and behind-the-scenes activities by major automotive companies who didn’t want an independent automotive manufacturer to succeed, a significant number of the 51 Tuckers produced are still road-worthy and are considered to be one of the ultimate automotive collectibles for those lucky enough to be able to get their hands on one.
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1967 Volkswagen Beetle
photo taken by Morio
Though it’s not a powerhouse like some of the other cars on this list, the 1967 Volkswagen Beetle is instantly recognizable and could quite possibly be one of the more famous vehicles ever produced. Originally known simply as the Volkswagen Type 1, by 1967 the German motor company decided to embrace the nicknames such as the “Beetle” and “Bug” that their car had received by an adoring public. The ’67 Beetle featured a variety of improvements over its predecessors in addition to formally adopting it’s new name; a new drivetrain was included, the engine was made larger, and the electrical generator doubled its output as it was converted to a 12V system. Additional changes were also made to the braking system, clutch disc, and various other features, making the ’67 Beetle a functionally different car than anything that had come before, and it's one on this list that won't sting you TOO badly for vintage car insurance!.
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1964 Porsche 911
Any list of classic cars wouldn’t be complete without an entry featuring the Porsche 911, which was originally developed as a replacement for the smaller and less comfortable Porsche 356 (and also as somewhat of a more sporting evolution of the Volkswagen Beetle, as many of the early Porsche cars used parts from Volkswagen vehicles.) When introduced in 1964, the 911 featured an air-cooled rear mounted engine and a five speed manual transmission. Though it contained four seats, the rear seats were very small and many considered it to be a “2 + 2” vehicle as opposed to a true four-seater. Though the Porsche 911 has remained in production since its original introduction, many still prefer the older models for their classical styling and air-cooled engines (as the company changed to water-cooled engines in 1998.)
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1962 Maserati 3500
The Maserati 3500 was created in an attempt to allow the Maserati company to tap into the growing Grand Turismo market, resulting in a classic car that not only had competitive power but was also able to keep up with many of the innovations of the time. When the car was first introduced in 1957, it featured a variety of changes to the design of the initial prototype; by 1962, a number of additional options had been added as standard features. The ’62 Maserati 3500 featured front and rear disc brakes, a limited slip differential, power windows, leather interior seating, and all of the power that one might expect from its six-cylinder engine and four-speed transmission. The 3500 would also serve as the basis for other Maserati products, such as the 3500 GTi (which was introduced as the first Italian production car featuring fuel injection.)
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1967 Ford GT40
Another powerhouse from Ford in the 1960’s, the Ford GT40 was designed primarily as a racing car (though according to race rules, at least a limited number of the cars had to be made available for sale to private owners.) The GT40 had been intended as a primary competitor against the cars being made by Ferrari, after an attempt to buy the Ferrari company by Ford Motors fell through in 1963. Different versions of the car were produced, labeled Mark I, Mark II, and Mark III, with the differences being largely the engine size and (in the case of the Mark III) the purpose for which the car was designed and built. As these cars were designed primarily for limited use in Grand Turismo races, any collector who owns an original ’67 GT40 considers himself quite lucky indeed.
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1953 Aston Martin DB2
Image (c) Peter Madle the internet guide to STUTZ cars history and models
The Aston Martin DB2 was developed in 1950 as a replacement for the previous Aston Martin 2-Litre Sports car. It featured a larger, dual overhead cam straight 6 engine, and was originally designed as a closed coupe racing car. By 1953, a convertible version of this classic car had also been introduced as well as engine options which provided for additional horsepower. Though the DB2 was only in production for 3 years, it served as a basis for many other Aston Martin vehicles which proved to be very popular both on the racetrack and as a road car.
Member's, Which one do you like/want ?
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#8
08-30-2011, 11:37 AM
Montess2K is right on the mark for me. Elco or Rancho.
I also miss SUVs with removable tops - Blazers, 4Runners and my personal choice is a white Bronco from the OJ era.
I also miss SUVs with removable tops - Blazers, 4Runners and my personal choice is a white Bronco from the OJ era.
#10
08-30-2011, 09:52 PM
Amy I just seen one of those at the bank yesterday. It was super clean and well taken care of and I told me daughter what a sweet car it was. I would have gotten A pic but there were about 3 women around it and i didn't want them to think i was a creep.
Personally I don't know what car i miss the most yet i'm still thinking about it
Personally I don't know what car i miss the most yet i'm still thinking about it