Category: Classic Sports/GT (Page 3 of 3)

PICK OF THE DAY: All Original 12,000 Mile Triumph TR6

May 22, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Despite being the most popular in Triumph’s TR series, with nearly 100,000 made, the TR6 is also the one with perhaps the best investment potential. The early TRs—the TR2 and TR3—are already seeing some nice returns, which they’ve earned as being among the first to gain worldwide popularity and thus helped to create the British Roadster as a motoring genre. That said, they, like many of their contemporaries, were based on pre-war mechanics—chiefly tractors and other farm implements. Although the TR4 saw a significant styling change with a handsome design by Michelotti (who penned several early Ferraris), the engine was more or less unchanged until 1967. With the introduction of the low-production TR250 (TR5 rest of world), the 4-cylinder was replaced with a more modern inline 6. The US retained twin Zenith-Solex carbs while everyone else got petrol injection (115 bhp vs. 150). This motor carried over into the Karmann-styled TR6, which became further hampered in the US by emissions regulations to a mere 104 hp. British Roadster motoring wasn’t really about horsepower and the TR6, even in US form, managed to live up to what it was about: fun, easy, breezy, and affordable. Having said that, the rules that apply any British Roadster are no different with a TR6: 1.) buy the best you can afford; and 2.) you can’t afford a cheap one. Rust is a common problem, notably the pans and along the links of the rear suspension. What may appear to be an easy fix can easily run into the thousands as they are more complex than one might think and not easy to put back together. Generally, the motors are quite solid, but if there is a need to get inside, it does require an engine-out service. Electrical systems are typical British finicky, but again, a TR6 that has been properly cared for will be less likely to create problems down the road. Another option is to buy one that’s practically new and care for it yourself. That, in essence, is what we have here. This is a final-year 1976 TR6 that is completely original with an astonishing 12,000 miles. It has original paint, original decals, original top, original manuals, original tools, original tonneau, you get the idea. While there are conditions under which miles can be too low, the seller states hoses and rubber have been replaced as needed to prevent leaks and decay. This was also the era when the TR6 stood out with bright colors like Topaz Yellow, Tahiti Blue and this Java Green. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is a nice change from the red, maroon and dark blue we so often see. Prices on all TR6s have been steady over the last decade with a recent upturn. No. 1 cars have risen the sharpest and this surely isn’t far from that if it’s not already there. Preserve for posterity or enjoy as nearly new. Not a bad investment either way. Find it here on Craigslist in Forest, VA for $25,000, with a link to the seller’s site here.

PICK OF THE DAY: Straight 1969 Citroën DS21 Safari

May 15, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

When it was introduced in 1955, what the Citroën DS lacked in performance, with its motor dating back to the 30s, it certainly made up for in innovation. To begin with, the teardrop shape designed for optimal aerodynamics and comfort was like nothing else on the road and it remains one of the most distinctive cars ever made. It was also the first car to use a hydropneumatic suspension, making the car literally float over road imperfections whilst allowing the car to lower and raise to as high as 10 inches. The hydraulic system was also used to operate the power front disc brakes, also an industry first as well as power steering. Furthermore, its unique mid-engine front-wheel-drive layout provided excellent traction without much compromise to balance. This was further aided by a wider track at the rear that all but eliminated typical front-drive understeer. With the launch of the DS21, its 2175 cc fuel-injected motor (one of the first European marques to feature fuel injection) provided ample power to make it a fine boulevard cruiser, if not a competent touring car. Combined with its suspension, the improved motor was the basis for some successful rallying including the Rallye Monte Carlo. Perhaps its greatest notoriety came when Charle De Gaulle’s DS21 Limousine outran Algerian gunmen… on two flat tires. In wagon (Safari) form, its cavernous cargo area was equally presidential. In fact, in its native France and other parts of the world, it was recruited for ambulance, paddy wagon and other commercial duty. Today, whether in 4-door saloon or 5-door Safari form, they turn heads not only for their uniqueness, but that to even those unfamiliar with the specifics, they just look like they were ahead of their time in so many ways. While we in the US were regulated to sealed beams and were slighted of the way-ahead-of-its-time directional headlamps, driving a DS21 in good nick feels in some ways like we still haven’t caught up. Unfortunately, like so many cars with hyropneumatic systems, it was also the DS’s achilles heel. Replacing the system, at least until recently, has been more work and expense than the cars were worth. Unlike other suspension only systems, the DS’s controlled brakes and steering as well, making it a very pricey undertaking. However, a spike in the rare Chapron-built convertibles to near six-figure prices has lifted all DS and even the downscale ID prices. In recent years, DSs have begun to get rescued, straightened out, or restored. Today’s example is a 1969 DS21 Safari that is a long-time California car and appears to be original, straight and rust-free. In addition, the spheres and accumulator, which are at the heart of the hydro-pneumatic system, are said to be in excellent shape. With only 82,000 original miles, this could be kept in a high driver condition or with some relatively minor sorting could be something more investment grade and the seller has it priced accordingly, with a No. 3 fetching low teens whereas a No. 1 car can bring just shy of $30K. This one’s in the middle here on Hemmings in Stillwater MN for $19,000.

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch Friday at Auction America Auburn Spring

May 9, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Lot No. 2098 – 1978 Ferrari 308 GTB
Estimate: $ 45,000 – $ 55,000

Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1975, the Ferrari 308 was a replacement for the successful 246 Dino line. It sported a Pininfarina styled body that was available in only a GTB coupe variant early on, and then in 1977, Ferrari introduced the GTS (Targa Top) model. Its iconic wedge shaped body lines were designed by Leonardo Fioravanti who had been famous for his previous work; the 365 Daytona and 246 Dino. The early carbureted cars such as the one offered here, sport the standard 2.9-liter mid-engine V-8 which produced about 240 horsepower fitted to a five-speed manual transmission. Ferrari went on to produce fuel injected 308’s making the GTSi, GTBi available starting in 1980, and the Quatrovolve, in 1983. Total production numbers for all variation were 12,149 in a span of ten years, 1975 to 1985. Although being the highest production model Ferrari in existence, the 308 is a must have for any collector or enthusiast. In particular, the early carbureted cars prove to be the most valuable among the Ferrari community with the GTB being the ‘drivers car’ as opposed the open GTS variant.

This car, chassis number F106AB25879 is an early carbureted car finished the classic Ferrari color combination of Rosso Corsa over a contrasting Tan interior. Sold new out of sunny Florida, it spent the majority of its life under the care of the first owner until being acquired by the second owner, a Pennsylvania based Ferrari collector, in 2006. Between its two owners, it gathered a mere 28,910 miles from new, always being serviced and cared for along the way. The most recent 30K service was completed just 3 years ago under the second owner’s discretion. The paint is extremely presentable as is the interior and engine bay confirming its low mileage and caring ownership. This example is also complete with tools, jack, and spare making it a complete package for the discriminating enthusiast. The Ferrari market has risen to levels unlike any other marque making the brand a centerpiece for the collector car world. 308’s have seen recent value hikes but currently remain very affordable as an investment that can be enjoyed. A low mileage GTB in the best color combination, with 2-ownership history and great accessories is surely an opportunity not to be missed.

Lot No. 2101 – 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220 SEb Cabriolet
Estimate: $ 40,000 – $ 60,000

This Mercedes-Benz was originally purchased by a young doctor in Marin County, California and given to his bride as a wedding present. She drove it for 20 years, albeit with complaints of having to use a stick-shift; eventually the good doctor replaced it for her with a 450SL. From this ownership it was bought by a gentleman in Mill Valley, California, where he spent four years performing an “over the top” restoration. Although the car was rust-free, the car was completely stripped of all paint and undercoating. He then applied new undercoating and 20 coats of Havana Brown lacquer to all visible sheetmetal. Being a true fanatic doing the work; the car also had three coats of Havana Brown applied to the undercarriage. The 2,195-cc, 120-hp six-cylinder engine was completely rebuilt and the car received a new four-speed transmission, new clutch, new brakes, new top, new wool headliner, re-chromed bumpers and more. This includes a dashboard that is burled Carpathian elm and is “as fine as you are likely to see.” The restorer/owner bought two additional Mercedes-Benz’ to obtain the leather for the seats he was redoing, and they are now presented in the rare two-tone Palomino and Tan combination. Among the equipment on the car are a Becker Mexico AM/FM radio, air conditioning; power top, windows, steering and brakes.

The current owner has owned the car for 28 years and when he heard of it being for sale, he contacted an appraiser to look the car over. The appraiser was so impressed with the quality of work; he had the restorer/owner work on his own cars. When purchased by the current owner, it arrived in Chicago with 81,023 miles on it – during the ensuing years, it now has a total of 85,110 miles. After driving it 1,000 miles over the first two years of ownership, it now spends most of its time under a car cover in the owner’s garage. It is now mainly used for early Sunday morning drives on Lake Shore Drive, but only if it is sunny weather. This lovely car has never seen snow, and it has never been parked and left unattended in the last 28 years. The Mercedes-Benz comes with a folder filled with letters and notes from the restorer/ex-owner that includes diagrams on how to oil and grease the car, as well as the locations of tiny drain holes that allow the car to go out in the rain and properly drain any falling moisture. The car is also accompanied by multiple documents, owner’s manual and tools.

Lot No. 2117 – 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302
Estimate: $ 65,000 – $ 75,000

This Mustang is reported as a rotisserie-restored California car with 55,705 actual miles per its verification by a Marti Report. It is finished in Bright Yellow (sometimes referenced as Grabber Yellow) with a black interior and runs with a 302-cid, 290-hp V-8 engine with a four-speed manual transmission and 3.91 gearing in a correct V-code Traction-Lok rear end. The drivetrain is reported as correct to the car. Other desirable features include this being a factory shaker car, rear decklid spoiler, Sports Slats, AM radio, power brakes and Magnum 500 wheels. It has been signed by racing legends Parnelli Jones and George Follmer, who as teammates in 1970, took their Bud Moore-prepared Boss 302 Mustangs to the coveted Trans-Am manufacturer’s title.

Lot No. 3037 – 1969 NSU Ro 80
Estimate: $ 10,000 – $ 14,000

The Ro 80 was considered to be a technologically advanced automobile produced by the West German firm of NSU from 1967-1977. Most notably was the drivetrain consisting of a 113 horsepower 995-cc twin-rotor Wankle engine with front-wheel drive. It also featured a fully independent suspension with rack-and-pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes. This special example is finished in bright lime green with a black vinyl interior. It also has a manual transmission, bucket seats, sunroof, AM/FM radio and alloy wheels. The appearance of this sedan is very original within the engine compartment and interior and is likely one of the best examples to be found in America.

Lot No. 3055 – 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster
Estimate: $ 40,000 – $ 45,000

Once again the Sports Roadster made an appearance at the top of the Thunderbird lineup. At $5,563 it was also the most expensive T-Bird available that year. There were minimal changes in styling as this was the final year of the third generation of Thunderbird styling introduced in 1961. Known as the bullet birds, the reference referred to the look of the rear taillights. The Thunderbird found itself to have competitors with the introduction of the Pontiac Grand Prix, Buick Riviera, Olds Starfire and the Studebaker GT Hawk. As a result, sales dropped nearly 20-percent from the year before. It is one of just 455 Sports Roadsters of a total of 63,133 Thunderbirds produced for 1963.

Painted in classic Rangoon Red over a contrasting red leather interior, this T-Bird is equipped with the 390-cid V-8, automatic transmission, power steering and brakes and AM/FM radio and chrome wire wheels.

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch RM Monaco May 10, 2014

May 2, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

LOT 131 – Aston Martin DB2/4 Coupé
Without Reserve – €150,000 – €200,000 [moto+match estimate: €200,000]

The DB2/4 was introduced in October 1953, and it provided a lot more room over its predecessor. This was accomplished in part by raising the roofline slightly over the DB2 and reducing the fuel tank capacity by two gallons to add to rear seat room. Other notable changes included a wraparound rear windscreen, larger front and rear bumpers, and the addition of a hatchback, which is believed to be the first fitted to a production car. 140 bhp, 2,922 cc DOHC six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension, live rear axle with parallel arms and coil springs, and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,510 mm

Chassis no. LML/980
Engine no. B6A/50/147
A splendid example of Aston Martin’s gentleman’s tourer
Includes Aston Martin Heritage Trust Certificate and factory build sheet
Less than 300 miles accumulated since restoration

Lot 133 – 1968 Toyota 2000GT
€545,000 – €620,000 [moto+match estimate: €650,000]

The 2000GT’s story starts not with Toyota but with Yamaha, who decided to design a sports car after years of producing motorcycles. Yamaha first marketed its design to Nissan, who ended up not taking on the project, so the car was then marketed to Toyota, who saw this tiny little sports car as an opportunity to shed its reputation of producing rather conservatively designed automobiles. Some inside the company might have considered this move to be a gamble for a company who had never sold such an automobile, but it was clear that the 2000GT could give Toyota and Yamaha’s designers and engineers a chance to compete on the world stage. The 2000GT was powered by a 150-horsepower variant of the inline-six cylinder engine that was originally used in the Toyota Crown, and Yamaha adapted it for use in a sports car by installing double overhead camshafts. Tipping the scales at just 2,400 pounds, with a 49/51 weight distribution, it was quite light on its feet, and it could reach a top speed of 135 mph. Despite being considered the underdog, the 2000GT certainly got a lot of exposure. Both Toyota and Carroll Shelby found success with the 2000GT on the race track. It won the 1967 Fuji 24 Hour endurance race in the hands of its manufacturer, and Shelby’s team took four chequered flags in the 1968 season with the 2000GT. One specially constructed example even found its way onto the silver screen in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice, with Toyota having to produce a convertible version in order to fit actor Sean Connery comfortably. Even though the car appeared onscreen for a small portion of the film, it monumentally increased the 2000GT’s exposure to the public, along with Toyota’s. Toyota initially planned to produce and sell nearly 1,000 examples annually, but by the time production ceased in 1970, just 351 examples had been built. Many potential consumers found it difficult to justify the $7,000 cost of the 2000GT, as that was $1,000 more expensive than a Jaguar E-Type or Porsche 911 and over $2,500 more expensive than a Chevrolet Corvette, especially considering that Jaguar, Porsche, and Chevrolet were much more established, especially in the United States, than Toyota was at the time. Whilst Toyota did not hit is goal of 1,000 examples annually, the 2000GT definitely received all the exposure it was due thanks to its racing endeavours with Carroll Shelby and its stint on the silver screen.

Chassis MF10-10174 was produced on 19 January 1968, finished in Pegasus White, and delivered new to its home market of Japan as a right-hand drive model. This 2000GT, being offered today from its native country, has recently completed a restoration, where it was repainted in a striking shade of burgundy and fitted with chrome Borrani wire wheels. The brilliant paint colour is beautifully accented by the chrome details on the car, and it attractively showcases the design features of this stunning sports car. Surly this would be a wonderful example to drive and enjoy, as it showcases Toyota’s brilliant European-inspired design. The 2000GT is a hugely important car in the history of the automobile. Without the 2000GT, there might not have been a Honda NSX or a Nissan 240Z, and the industry on the whole might have looked very different from what it is today. The 2000GT shattered the preconceived notions of what the world thought a Japanese car could be, and it changed the automobile industry for the better. Collectors have finally come to realise the importance of these wonderful little sports cars, and they have become quite desirable in recent years. This 2000GT oozes a sporting elegance that is wonderfully stated by its dark red paint and Borrani wire wheels, which work to accentuate its brilliant design. It would be a wonderful example to drive and enjoy. 150 bhp, 2,000 cc Yamaha DOHC hemi-head inline six-cylinder engine, triple Solex twin-choke side-draft carburettors, five-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel power-assisted Dunlop disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,329 mm

Chassis no. MF10-10174
Beautifully restored in dark red with chrome Borrani wire wheels
Japan’s iconic sport’s car

Lot 165 – 1956 Porsche 356 A Carrera 1500 GS/GT Speedster by Reutter
€780,000 – €900,000 [moto+match estimate €900,000]

In addition to retaining its original matching-numbers Type 547/1 engine, which is a highly desirable and rare distinction, this early 356 Carrera Speedster claims some unusual specifications that bridge the GS and GT variants. According to the Kardex warranty card, this 356 A was originally distributed to the United States for retail by Max Hoffman’s renowned dealership in New York in August 1956. Records of Karrosserie Reutter’s indicate that chassis number 82189 was originally finished in white paint and fitted with a black top and matching complementary interior trim. Although this car was officially designated as a Carrera GS, it possesses some features of the forthcoming performance-positioned GT variant that are believed to be original to the car. According to one Speedster expert, this Carrera was equipped by the factory with an upgraded engine, headlight grilles, and a 550 Spyder-style wing mirror, and it was appointed without a heater, making it one of a handful of GS examples with features of the forthcoming GT trim package. By some accounts, this sensational Porsche was raced at Sebring, Daytona, and Riverside in its early years. Then, in 1992, it was re-imported to Germany and acquired a year later by collector Hans Reuter, who oversaw an exacting restoration that prepared the car for enjoyable touring. In addition to rebuilding the legendary Carrera engine to Spyder performance specifications, the restoration saw to several tasteful upgrades, such as the addition of Koni Classic adjustable dampers, a 356 B Super 90-specification camber compensator for the rear suspension, a 12-volt electrical system, an upgraded ignition system, Argus steel-braided oil lines, and new Michelin XAS tyres. The 356 was also equipped with an original set of Rudge wheels, which are rare items that alone are estimated to value up to €35,000. The opportunity was additionally taken to endow the car with a couple of physical cues that were more becoming of its GT specifications, including the retro-fitting of a louvered engine lid and the addition of a stainless steel, Sebring-style, mesh-covered, single outlet exhaust. In this handsomely restored state, though painted red at the time, the car was depicted in Dr Michel Thiriar’s 1998 book, Porsche Speedster: The Evolution of the Porsche Lightweight Sportster, 1947–1994. This beautiful 356 Carrera has most recently been subjected to a bare metal repaint in its original white finish, and it has also been re-trimmed with a new red interior. During that time, the engine was fully serviced by Porsche specialist Orlando in Italy. The Speedster is currently equipped with Cibie spot lamps, and it is also accompanied by side-screens, a correct tool kit, a tonneau, and a proper spanner for the Rudge wheels. It retains its original matching-numbers Type 547/1 engine, and as such, this early Carrera Speedster would certainly draw significant favour at discerning concours d’elegance. Along with its visual appeal, the car can be equally enjoyed for its high-revving performance, with heart-racing glimpses of the special flat-four’s dual-cam torque. As the 60th anniversary of Porsche’s ground-breaking 3rd and 4th overall finish at the 1954 Carrera Mexican road race is soon approaching, there could hardly be a more opportune time to acquire an important early Carrera such as this handsome Speedster. The wonderful product of Stuttgart’s race-bred engineering abounds with authentic details, like a correct GS/GT tachometer and the original Weber fuel-pressure regulator, which is a rare and desirable mechanical component. Future ownership can look forward to the unmistakable growl of the legendary Carrera motor, which promises the singular gravitas of the Speedster’s unique, low-screened, open-top motoring experience. 110+ bhp, 1,498 cc DOHC air-cooled Type 547/1 horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine with twin Solex 40 P11-4 carburettors, a four-speed manual transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension with shock absorbers, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,100 mm

Chassis no. 82189
Engine no. 90638
Original matching-numbers Carrera engine
Rare combination of Carrera GS and GT trim levels
Copy of original Kardex warranty card
Desirable Rudge wheels
Ideal for Porsche club events and vintage rallies

Lot 166 – 1969 De Tomaso Mangusta
€160,000 – €210,000 [moto+match estimate €250,000]

The Mangusta offered here was beautifully restored for its present owner with painstaking attention to detail, and it is likely amongst the finest examples in existence. It is freshly completed and has been refinished in what is believed to be its original factory colours, a dazzling green (simply called Lime, found below a later colour change to red) over black leather upholstery, which is a combination that is oh-so-appropriate for a sports car produced at the wild end of the Swinging Sixties. Unlike many of these cars, which have been hot-rodded over the years, this example has always been preserved in very much its original specification, which is something that the owner held true to during its restoration. The early 289 V-8 and ZF1 transmission, which is the same as was used in the GT40, were fully rebuilt, and care was taken to restore all components in their original finish. The car retains the original sand-cast wheels, with their slightly rough texture, and dials lettered in Italian, suggesting that this Mangusta may have originally been a European-delivery example. Importantly, the car retains its very rare original jack and tool roll, as well as the remote-starter button under the bonnet, allowing a mechanic to turn over the engine during maintenance. This Mangusta is currently domiciled in the UK, and it will be sold with its V5C registration and recent MOT test certificate. It is interesting to note that mangusta translates to “mongoose”, which is one of the few natural enemies of the cobra. The name is indicative of the performance to which the ferocious Mangusta aspired and which this beautifully restored example can undoubtedly achieve. 271 bhp, 289 cu. in. overhead-valve Ford V-8 engine, five-speed ZF manual transmission, unequal length tubular wishbone front suspension with coil springs and anti-roll bar, wide-base unequal length wishbone rear suspension with trailing arms, coil springs, and anti-roll bar, and four-wheel power-assisted Girling disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,500 mm

Chassis No. 8MA890
A beautiful, muscular icon of the 1960s
The most desirable quad-light, early-production iteration
Equipped with the high-performance Ford 289 V-8
Freshly restored in its stunning original colour
Offered with its original jack and rare tool set

Lot 189 – 1973 Fiat 130 Coupé by Pininfarina
Without Reserve €10,000 – €15,000 [moto+match estimate €18,000]

After its debut at the 1969 Geneva Motor Show, the Fiat 130 topped the Italian automaker’s line-up. It boasted such features as standard power-assisted steering and four-wheel disc brakes, and it also ushered in Fiat’s first use of an alternator rather than a generator to produce electricity. Hidden beneath its sharp, attention-grabbing lines was a choice of new overhead-camshaft V-6 engines in either 2,866-cubic centimetre or 3,235-cubic centimetre form, with this example utilising the latter. The new V-6 line was based on the 128 Type A powerplant and was developed by a noted Ferrari engine master, engineer Aurelio Lampredi. With its own Pininfarina-penned design on the inside and out, the 130 Coupé wowed at the 1971 Geneva Salon, proving it to be even more striking than the four-door saloon. It was a large coupé that featured a host of luxury features inside, like state-of-the-art fibre optics to light its instrument panel and switches. Just a hair under 4,300 examples of the 130 Coupé were built, and amongst those was this delightful, original low-mileage example. It has since been in the long-term ownership of Francesco Stanguellini, who’s racing pioneer father Vittorio Stanguellini ran with the likes of Enzo Ferrari and the Maserati brothers in Modena. This 130 Coupé has been an integral part of the Stanguellini Museum in Modena, which is a hidden gem known only to true cognoscenti. It has been kept in impressively fine original condition and is equipped with power steering and rare air conditioning. This car appears ready to be enjoyed immediately, as it is motivated with willing V-6 power. It has elegant and timeless style, courtesy of Pininfarina, which befits its grand touring aspirations. 165 bhp, 3,235 cc overhead-camshaft V-6 engine, three-speed Borg Warner automatic transmission, torsion bar front and coil-spring rear independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,720 mm

Chassis no. 130BC 0002020
Long-term ownership by Francesco Stanguellini
Fewer than 32,000 kilometres from new
On display for many years in the Stanguellini Museum

PICK OF THE DAY: Refreshed Low-Mile Saab 99 GL

April 30, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Saab was always a company that did things differently and to anyone who’s owned one, those differences forged a relationship like few other cars can match. From its beginnings as an automaker in the late ‘40s (spawned from an aircraft company), the cars evoked a palpable personality, instantly engaging their owners. Unfortunately, when you own not just a car, but the entire company—namely you are GM (Saab was a wholly-owned subsidiary since 2000)—doing things differently doesn’t have the same level of charm. The “overthinking” that went into even the latest cars proved too costly and simply did not meet fiscal expectations. For a brief time, Saab was saved by exotic automaker, Spyker, only for Spyker to face bankruptcy themselves months later. Sale of its Saab division was blocked by former owner GM and Saab, as we knew it for over 55 years, breathed its last breath, although a non-breathing all-electric car based on the last Saab 9-3 is said to be in production, though no details have been announced on when and where the car will be available. In the meantime, we have the used Saab market to play with. Fortunately, the cars were not only innovative, but made to last and there are hundreds on the market at any given time, with continued parts availability. To clarify, by “made to last,” they are durable (rally proven), but not necessarily reliable. The quirkiness that makes them so lovable also makes them finicky and temperamental at times. They key, as with any other car, is to find one that has been well cared for. That may seem obvious—and it is—but because Saabs were well-thought out and well-made, their flaws can be covered up. As a car that has any residual value, it’s probably best to avoid any GM-era cars (2000-2012). The cars that are seeing some appreciation are the early cars, most definitely the 92, 93, 95 and 96. The Saab 99, too, is enjoying some healthy growth, due in part to being more advanced than its predecessors in the first place and that refreshed and restored examples are increasingly coming onto the market. They also have a look that’s fast becoming iconic: the arched tail (whether in coupé or Wagonback form), the curvaceous front fender line and the four headlamp nose (this was US only but expatriated in European markets) are an aesthetic that is like nothing else on the road. This example has had a high-quality restoration in 2011, comprising of new paint in its lovely Alpine White, and a new interior. The motor is said to be original with only the occasional drip or two. The Inca wheels complete the Saab look while its original steel wheels and chrome hubcaps are included in the sale. The seller discloses the odometer stopped working at just over 55,000 miles in 2012, but estimates another 10,000 miles since. In any case, that is not much for a car that can easily go half a million with proper care. Find it here on The Saab Network Classifieds in Charlotteville VA for $5,900.

PICK OF THE DAY: Exceptional Peugeot 504 Cabriolet

April 29, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

When we think of a Peugeot 504—and how many of us do—we think of the indestructible saloon cars that, while conquering the worst roads that five continents have to offer with ample comfort and high efficiency, are not the stuff an enthusiast pines for. However, the 2-door coupé and cabriolet versions are an entirely different animal. Introduced in 1969 with a Pinifarina design that looked like a cross between a Fiat 124 Spider and a Fiat 130 Coupé, these cars evoked a 70s Parisian attitude that was more dolce vita than utilitaire. Additionally, their relative light weight (1165 kg) and four-wheel independent suspension, combined with a 110-hp four-cylinder motor gave the cars excellent road manners and decent pep (0-60 in just under 10 sec.). Cabriolet production totaled about 1,000 cars a year over an 8-year run, however like many open-top cars of the time, a good number of those have succumbed to rust. The car presented here was recently imported from an evidently dry part of Sweden as there are no signs of rot and only minimal surface oxidation. Interior is free of cracks and upholstery wear indicating that the car has spent much of its life stored indoors. The top also looks to be in good condition with no rips or snags and clear plastic rear window. Paint, interior (except for radio) and top are all said to be original. The motor also looks solid with good hoses, unblemished wires and no signs of leaks or seepage; and since it used a fuel-injected version of the ubiquitous saloon car’s 2.0 litre, parts are still widely available. It’s a car that’s sure to turn heads while capturing some joie de vie. Find it here at Ragtops in West Palm Beach FL for a Hagerty No. 2 $18,500.

PICK OF THE DAY: Spectacular 1967 MGB GT

April 24, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Spanning nearly two decades relatively unchanged, the MGB was and remains one of the most popular British sports cars ever made. It is perhaps the essence of the British Sports Car: attractive, lightweight and nimble, yet surprisingly spacious and comfortable. It made the best use of a tractor motor that has its roots in 1947 while providing tossable handling characteristics that make it a favorite of vintage racers to this day. In 1965, three years after the launch of the roadster, the MGB took on a fixed roof, designed by Pininfarina, which opened up the parcel shelf for 2+2 seating as well as a relatively generous cargo area, thanks to its hatchback design that would later serve as inspiration for the Volvo P1800ES, Jensen GT and Ferrari FF, to name a few. With roadster production outnumbering GTs nearly four to one, they were somewhat more exclusive and regal. In fact, Prince William has the 6-cylinder C version which was handed down to him from his father Charles. Today, they are more sought after than the roadsters and it would be hard to find a better example than this one. Though it was completely restored 20 years ago, it appears to have held up extraordinarily well since. It evokes quality in every detail from the excellent paint, brightwork and glass to a fresh looking interior to a spotless motor and undercarriage. It is being offered by only its second owner with just over 36,000 miles on the clock. Its recent service addresses many typical MG concerns. Find it here on Craigslist in Houston TX for $18,500.

PICK OF THE DAY: Low-mile One-Owner Five-Letter Mazda RX-7

April 19, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Toward the end of the 70s, faced with increased safety requirements and waning sales, the traditional affordable sports car was facing near extinction. British sports cars were encumbered with grotesque bumpers, Italians were hanging onto whatever marketshare they could, and even the emerging Japanese entries, fueled by the Z Cars, had become bloated and further from the character that defined the segment: light, agile, peppy and fun, whether on a Saturday drive on B roads or a Sunday event at the track. Focus groups seemed to suggest the maturing baby boomer market was no longer interested in these things. Fortunately, Mazda was either too small to hire focus groups or was simply up for flying in the face of convention. In 1978, it introduced a car that not only reversed the trend but captured the Chapman-esque essence of what defined a sports car. This was the RX-7. It was an immediate success with both press and public. Not to ignore market trends however, the third series of the first-gen cars incorporated many of the comfort and luxury elements that appealed to the focus group buyers including leather upholstery, air conditioning and a premium (for the time) sound system. Meanwhile, performance and handling continued to be tweaked with fuel injection and limited slip. These were the GSL-SEs, or five-letter FBs, the ultimate statement of the first generation’s balance of traditional sports car values and modern comfort and convenience. Finding a five-letter RX-7 that hasn’t been abused, whether through mistreatment of its 1.3 litre rotary engine or abomination through bolt-on body kits, roller skate wheels, etc., can be very difficult. Today’s car not has not been abused, but is pristinely original with less than 40,000 miles covered by a single owner. It’s said to have been in climate controlled storage for 20 years, so some careful attention will need to be given to return it to the road, but it is nevertheless a rare opportunity, not only for enthusiasts of the first-gen RX-7, but for anyone who appreciates an ideal when sport was still in sports car. After a global-economy driven slump, they’re now surpassing peak levels around the $10K mark, with investment potential up and to the right. Find it here on Craigslist in Littleton CO with offers being accepted.