Tag: original (Page 4 of 5)

PICK OF THE DAY: Clean Mercedes-Benz E320 Touring

May 5, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Credited with being among the last tank-built Mercedes-Benz models (with a signature “thunk” when closing the doors), the W124 was also among the last to score consistently high on customer satisfaction surveys. It, and the BMW 5 Series of the time were the ones all others were chasing. It was also one of Bruno Sacco’s last designs, which some refer to as unpretentious elegance, while others find it taxi-cab humdrum (his final two, the W210 and R230 would be more revolutionary). A subtle facelift in 1994, coinciding with the company’s revised nomenclature (Class first, Engine/Model second), smoothed out much of the ‘80s-ness to where they are a clean, unassuming look 20 years later. The Touring (wagon, estate) in particular has purposeful yet graceful lines that are well proportioned to the 124s basic aesthetic. It lends itself exceptionally well to sibling-inspired tuning with shorter springs and AMG Monoblock wheels from the Coupé’s Sportline. Some go one step further with the fender flares, Recaro seats and aerodynamics to envision a touring version of the Porsche-built E500, which never existed—but should have. This E320 is an excellent basis for such tuning or looks stately in its factory setup. It has traceable ownership through friends and family and has covered a mere 77,000 miles. Both exterior and interior finishes look meticulously cared for. It is said to have been regularly maintained all its life and in “practically perfect” condition. Given how practical the W124 Touring is, it may indeed be perfect. Find it here on Craigslist in Jamestown NC for a very reasonable $6,000.

PICK OF THE DAY: Outstanding Low-Mile BMW 325is

May 2, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

If the E10 (1600, 2002) opened up markets for BMW, literally putting them on the map, its prodigy, the E30, cemented its popularity. Not that there was anything to fault the E21 that preceded it, nor any 3 Series that followed it, the E30 absolutely nailed what a German car was all about in the 80s. It was decidedly sporty, with just enough elegance and luxury to keep it from going too soft. It was priced just high enough where a buyer felt they earned it, yet within reach that earning one seemed reasonable. They were small enough to be completely manageable but had enough space for friends, kids, luggage, etc. It is little wonder that the E30 remains highly sought after. All factors considered, it indeed may have been the Ultimate Driving Machine. So good in fact that driving they did… and did… and did. Most E30s on the market these days have 200,000 miles or more (odometers routinely stop in these so there’s often no real way to tell). Furthermore, the E30 is a favorite of the, um, custom enthusiasts and are often found with roller skate wheels, painted grilles, bolt-on body kits, coffee-can exhausts, and similar goo-gaw. One really must kiss a lot of frogs. Today’s example is not only an outstanding original and low-mileage E30, it is a 325is, which is second only to the M3 in terms of performance, handling and refinement. It’s M20 6-cylinder is silky smooth and actually feels much stronger than its 168-hp on paper. Combined with the legendary crisp 5-speed transmission and the unique ‘S’ appointments that include sport suspension, 6″ BBS-style wheels, sport seats, and proper aerodynamic tuning, these changes transform the already excellent driving machine into something ultimater. With just over 60,000 actual miles and a fresh Inspection II (major scheduled service), as well as all controls, instruments and accessories said to be working (odometers typically stop near the 100K turn), this one is outstanding in every sense. Find it here on Craigslist in Youngstown OH for a very reasonable $7,500.

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: Superb 29,000-Mile Jaguar XJ12C

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

There’s a saying in the hobby, “You have to be a good sport, to own a sports car” and while not a sports car, the Jaguar XJ Coupés, produced between 1975 and 1978 can certainly be case-in-point. The build quality left much to be desired (doors patched together to create a longer coupé door, for example), the 5.3 litre V12 was anemic and inefficient, the pre-GM transmission might as well have been made from pudding. And yet… it was—and is—so alluring. With less than 2,000 cars made over its four-year run, it wasn’t a car one would see every day. It was handsomely appointed with burled walnut and Connoly leather. And that shape: one of the most well-proportioned, seductive, classic designs in automotive history. Altogether, it evoked personal luxury in a way that few cars have been able to, or at least not on middle-class wages. Thirty-some years later, the XJ12C remains exclusive as they don’t often come on the market. Furthermore, the problems that were inherent in them to begin with only exacerbate over time: engines and transmissions may have been swapped for a GM 350/Turbo Hydramatic drivetrain; rust has built up in the undercarriage, wheel arches, doors or beneath the vinyl roofs (standard on XJ12Cs); and electronics have gone haywire. This gorgeous example, with less than 29,000 miles on the clock, simply hasn’t had enough use for those issues to arise and with continued excellent care, there’s a good bet that they may not in the future. Being a Northwest car, there appears to be no rust with an excellent finish and no bubbling beneath the roof. Interior is fresh, original and meticulously clean. The motor and drivetrain will probably need careful monitoring from its sparse use, and it is after all an old Jag. But then, you have to be a good sport… Find it here on Craigslist in Sherwood OR—for about half a comparable Rolls-Royce Corniche—at $24,000.

PICK OF THE DAY: Nicely Preserved 1968 Porsche 912

April 23, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Anyone who has followed the market on the original short-wheelbase Porsche A Modelles can speak to their stratospheric appreciation, particularly since the recent Spring auctions. An SWB 911 is getting out of reach for most hobbyist collectors and becoming blue-chip. But there is a glimmer of hope. As it did when it was introduced in 1965, the 912 offers much of the same joys of owning a classic Porsche at prices that are still attainable. With their iconic looks, nimble handling and go-the-distance fuel economy, the Porsche 912 is a Cinderella story in the making. Finding a 912 that hasn’t been treated like the unworthy stepsister can be a grim task. Likewise, to bring one back to its deserved glory can be more trouble than its worth—literally. The 912 presented here has been exceptionally well preserved, with a numbers matching drivetrain, original interior and one repaint on a rust-free, accident-free body. Sepia Brown may not get a lot of love, but it is the original color and not at all out of character for a late 60s German sports car. It has some desirable options like original headrest and fog lamps as well as the expensive wood steering wheel (no mention whether that’s original but the forthcoming CoA will clarify). Pictured with the extra cost Fuchs, but correct stamped chrome steelies come with the car (which look more appropriate on a 912 anyway). It is said to be in an excellent mechanical state with recent tune up, carb cleaning and new gaskets, as well as new service distributor, belts, points and wires. It also has a reconditioned OEM gas tank, had brakes serviced and replaced all fluids, torsion bar bushings, battery, and OEM valve springs. Having been lowered two inches not only improves the already excellent handling of a 912, but makes it look more purposeful. It is being offered for sale by a noted early Porsche collector. Find it here on The Samba in Los Angeles CA for a reasonable $40,000.

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.

PICK OF THE DAY: Well Optioned, Original, 29,000-mile 1968 Corvette

April 2, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

This is a fully documented, numbers matching Chevrolet Corvette with a 327 and nicely optioned with auto, air and full power. It has original paint (3829 British Green) and still has its Protect-O-Plate, original window sticker and first California registation. AC was resealed as was power steering and transmission. This car was a one owner car until 2010. It was stored for 30 years. New red line tires and updated hoses and belts were added. It is said to drive like a new ’68 Corvette. Factory options include:

M40 – Turbo Hydramatic
G81 – Positraction (3;08)
J50 – Power Brakes
U69 – AM/FM Radio
A31 – Power Windows
C60 – Air Conditioning
A01 – Soft Ray Tinted Glass
PT6 – Red Stripe Tires with Rally Wheels
N40 – Power Steering

The car also has:

Original jack
T-Top bags
Owners book with original bag
Protect-O-Plate
All California registation papers back to 1968.

Find it here on Craigslist in Huntington Beach CA for an almost too-good-to-be-true $29,000.

PICK OF THE DAY: Original One Owner Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser

March 6, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Few cars evoke ruggedness and durability the way the legendary Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser does. During its 24-year lifespan, it remained one of the most capable off-road vehicles on the planet, but near the end, after 1979, some refinements such as power steering, air conditioning and comfy seats were introduced, setting the table for the luxurious Land Cruisers we think of today. This example is from 1980 and was purchased new by its current owner from Toyota of Orange. It’s traveled 103,000 miles and in all of those, has only been off the road once. A California car for its entire life, it still wears its original Dune Beige paint on a completely rust-free body and looks fantastic. With restored examples fetching around the $60,000 mark, this one in completely original form is a relative bargain at half that. Find it here on Craigslist in Orange County for $29,500.

PICK OF THE DAY: Exemplary 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300D Turbodiesel

February 25, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Today we have a well-preserved one-owner 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300D Turbodiesel that’s been dealer maintained for all its mere 53,000 miles (or roughly five percent of this motor’s projected lifespan). Seller states an earlier repaint that appears to have been done to a high standard. Otherwise looks to be a very original example of a nice driving Turbodiesel. Furthermore, given comparable CD (coupé) or TD (wagon) prices would approach or even eclipse the $20,000 mark, the seller’s asking price of under $7,000 seems fair. Find it here on Craigslist in Richmond VA.

PICK OF THE DAY: Single-Family 1970 Saab 95 Wagon with Under 27,000 Miles

February 24, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

1970 Saab 95 Wagon. Let’s start with the fact this car has been in the family since new, NOT to speak of the mileage on this car is what you see on the odometer. Yes, that’s right, only 26,692 miles. The car was traded in to Eldon Vories Motors at some point in time in the early to mid 80’s. Does that name ring a bell? It should, that was my family’s business of which I was a partner. This Saab 95 was then taken to be my father’s driver and was towed behind their motor coach as a driver when they arrived at their destination. It was used in this capacity for more years than I can count. When my father passed away in the mid 90’s, my mother kept it as a 2nd driver to take to her cabin in the mountains. Just this evening she informed me it was time to say goodbye to this family icon.In 2008, my mother spent almost $3000 to make sure everything was done to make it safe and road worthy. The auto repair shop’s owner was very familiar with this car because he used to work for EVM’s and worked on this car. The list is very long of all things that were done and is available at the end of the photos of this car. New tires were put on the car and it would really make a good driver for someone OR, it could be restored to be a number 1 quite easily, as everything is there. If I could find some of the old photos of the car behind the motor coach, I would, in fact I will go on a mission to find them.

The original owner’s really loved the car and it was their family car for many years. They kept is serviced by factory specs and a person would always see it running all over the Walla Walla Valley. It will even be sad for me to see the car go away. But I am sure there is a Saab Lover out there that will take good care of this classic.