Wednesday, October 31, 2012

BMW Dixi 3/15 DA-1 & DA-2

1927
BMW Dixi 3/15 DA-1

Manufacturer Fahrzeugfabrik Eisenach
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Also called Dixi 3/15 PS DA-1
Production 1927–1929
Successor BMW 3/15 DA-2
Layout FR layout
Engine 747 cc side valve straight-4, 15 hp (11 kW)
Transmission 3-speed manual
Wheelbase 75 in (1,905 mm)
Kerb weight approx. 400 kg (882 lb)
Related Austin 7

1929
BMW 3/15 DA2


BMW 3/15 DA2 (1929)
AThe 3/15 DA-2 replaced the DA-1 in April 1929. The main change from the DA-1 was the operation of the brakes on all four wheels by the foot pedal, which had operated only the rear brakes on the DA-1. Other changes included larger tyres and a lower final drive ratio. Available body styles included a steel-bodied two-door saloon, a two-seat convertible, and a delivery van.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3/15

Monday, October 29, 2012

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 (1960-1984)

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40
(1960-1984)



Like the Jeep Wrangler, the FJ Land Cruiser has its roots in military vehicles. Tough-looking and even tougher over rocks and mud, the gasoline FJ40 and diesel BJ40 Land Cruiser SUVs have conquered the world’s most-difficult trails. Toyota’s modern FJ Cruiser is the reinterpretation of the classic Land Cruiser models of old, even as the latter has grown today into a luxury behemoth of an SUV. Toyota honors the classic Land Cruiser faithful by still offering OEM replacement parts through its dealer network.

http://pricinginsider.carsdirect.com

Sunday, October 28, 2012

1976 FJ40 Restoration

1976
FJ40 Restoration & Build Up 






www.deckersonline.com

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Fiat 520

FIAT 520
Manufacturer : Fiat
Production      :1927–1930
Predecessor    : Fiat 507
Successor       : Fiat 521
Body style      : 4-door sedan
                          4-door landaulette
                          4-door cabriolet
Layout             : FR layout
Engine             : 2,244 cc straight-6
Transmission  : 4-speed manual
Wheelbase      : 2,900 mm (114.2 in)
Length              : 4,150 mm (163.4 in)
Width               : 1,660 mm (65.4 in)
Curb weight    : 1,250 kg (2,800 lb)



Fiat's upper middle class car in the later 1920s was also designated as the Fiat 520, but was smaller and more modestly powered than its earlier namesake.

During the early decades of the 20th century European automakers, once steering wheels had replaced centrally positioned steering tillers, tended to place the driver and his steering wheel on the right side of the car regardless of any local regulations or conventions concerning which side of the road cars should be driven. By the 1920s, as the number of wheeled vehicles on the roads increased, clearer consensus had become necessary in the more populous parts of Italy about the need for everyone to drive along the right side of the road. The 1927 Fiat 520 was one of the first cars, presumably in recognition of this trend, to place the steering wheel on the left side of the car.

The 520 was replaced by the Fiat 521 in 1928, although the 520 appears to have continued in production until 1929, by when more than 20,000 six-cylinder Fiat 520s had been produced.

EnginesModel Years Engine Displacement Power Fuel system
520 1927–29 straight-6 sidevalve 2244 cc 46 hp single carburetor
520 T 1928–30 straight-6 sidevalve 1866 cc 35 hp single carburetor

From Wikipedia


GMC 1/2 Ton Pickup

1957
GMC 1/2 Ton Pickup
Frame Off Built 1/2 Ton
Pickup 5.7L EFI LS1 V8 4L60E






Description:
Specifications5.7 liter LS1 V8 that was purchased from Street & Performance
Double A-arm front and four link rear suspension that’s complete with tubular control arms and QA1 coil over shocks
16 inch painted steel wheels that are mounted to Hankook wide white wall tires
Air conditioning 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission
Power rack and pinion steering
Planet Color Tobacco Copper Metallic exterior paint Ford nine inch rear end
Power four wheel disc brake system that’s complete with GM front calipers, Wilwood rear calipers and drilled and slotted rotors
Custom leather interior

Engine : LS1 5.7 Liter V8
Body Style: Pickup Truck
Miles : 1132
Interior Color: Brown & Tan
Exterior Color : Tobacco Copper Metallic
Certified Price:  $99,900

As General Motor’s stalwart and devoutly focused truck brand, GMC has produced years of tough and innovative workhorses that are often completely overlooked by classic car collectors. But, when it comes to rare customs, dedicated fans of the ‘Professional Grade’ division have a rich legacy of creating unique and exceptionally well-done offerings which cause a big stir anytime they roll onto a show field. The owner of this immaculate 1957 half-ton wanted to capitalize on both General Motor’s timeless design and GMC’s innate exclusivity by building a world class show stopper which mixes the best elements of a pro-touring pony car with the all-American class of a vintage pickup. If you’re a diehard GMC fan, an old school truck lover, or just a curious buyer who’s looking for something a bit different, this killer custom is EXACTLY what you’ve been waiting for!

As the beneficiary of a recent high quality frame-off restoration, this sweet GMC Half Ton is a meticulously planned crowd gatherer which wraps classic 50s design around the comfort and reliability of a modern street machine. During its rejuvenation, the truck’s expressive body panels were stripped, massaged into a laser-straight canvas, and bathed in a rich coat of Planet Color Tobacco Copper Metallic basecoat. When that killer black and brown ‘flop’ dried, a protective clearcoat shell was sprayed, sanded and buffed to an impressive wet-look shine. And today, the truck sits as a slick utilitarian showpiece which trades blue collar Main Street overalls for white collar Wall Street fashion!

Introduced as the successor to GM’s venerable ‘Advanced Design’ models, GMC’s stylish ‘Blue Chip’ series wraps excellent proportions in timeless sheetmetal which showcases lead designer Harley Earl’s talent for both form and composition. At the front of the truck a 1957-exclusive stainless grille, which seamlessly swaps its traditional model designation for a fresh “LS1” emblem, hangs between modern, chrome trimmed headlights and traditional, clear parking lights. Below that grille, a conservative chrome bumper bends around the corners of curvaceous front fenders; and above that grille, a Bel Air inspired hood wears a prominent gold “GMC” inset. At the top of the truck a curved and tinted windshield, which is cleared by two bright wipers, rides behind a show-worthy combination of fresh weatherstripping and pristine trim. At the edges of that windshield, professionally polished stainless emphasizes the truck’s swept side glass; and behind that windshield, fresh bed planks anchor mirror-like hardware beneath a full-size spare tire. At the sides of the truck ‘flow through’ body lines, which are perfectly highlighted by bold Tobacco Copper metallic paint, glisten beneath correct chrome door handles and correct chrome mirrors. Below those lines, awesome chrome steps provide both form and function; and behind those lines, sculpted stepside fenders remind us of the time when design trumped utility. At the back of the truck an embossed GMC tailgate, which features metallic gold lettering, extends on stainless, plastic covered chains. At the sides of that tailgate, polished tail lights look good and function great; and at the bottom of that tailgate a conservative chrome bumper hangs over a modern, frame-mounted hitch.

Take a look under this GMC’s stylish, domed hood and you’ll find a fully detailed 5.7 liter LS1 V8 which produces enough rock solid power and stump pulling twist to put that hidden hitch to good use! Straight from the factory, GM’s award winning Generation III small block combines a sturdy aluminum casting with lightweight aluminum heads, coil-near-plug ignition and flat top aluminum pistons to create razor sharp throttle response and a torque band that’s as flat as Kansas. At the front of the engine a modern serpentine system, which is complete with a full set of billet pulleys and polished brackets, spins a chrome alternator and a chrome AC compressor at the sides of a chrome air cleaner that’s equipped with a fresh re-usable filter element. Once air enters that filter, it flows through a factory LS1 throttle body into a chrome Street and Performance Magnum 3 intake which is bolted down over completely stock internals. High octane fossils are provided by a GM electronic fuel injection system. Sparks are sequenced through high performance Taylor plug wires. Spent gases are whisked away by a slick pair of ceramic coated Stainless Headers shorty headers. And cooling comes courtesy of a gloss black radiator that’s complete with chrome corrugated hoses, a polished overflow tank and a large electric puller fan. Aesthetically, this GMC’s glossy Tobacco Copper Metallic engine compartment combines with the small block’s clean silver casting to provide a natural contrast which simply oozes modern appeal. And niceties such as body-matched fuel rail covers, polished fluid reservoirs, high quality braided hoses and small “LS1” emblems add just the right amount of flash to complement the truck’s simple, vintage charm.

Step right under this solid half-ton and you’ll find a clean undercarriage that’s free from run-ins with other cars, shows no signs of Mother Nature’s wrath and, based on looks alone, hasn’t seen a wet road or been anywhere near a puddle of mud since its thorough, frame-off restoration. The hot LS1’s power flows from a rebuilt 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission to a solid driveshaft which turns a sturdy Ford nine inch rear end. That gloss black axle pushes the truck on a familiar four link suspension via a pair of high quality QA1 coil over shocks. Tracking is provided by a modern double A-arm set-up which features tubular control arms, two more quality QA1 coil over shocks and power rack and pinion steering. And quick stops are a cinch thanks to power four wheel disc brakes which utilize GM front calipers and Wilwood rear calipers to clamp large drilled and slotted rotors. At the center of the floors, an aluminized true dual exhaust system breathes through mandatory catalytic converters and brash Flowmaster dual chamber mufflers. At the corners of the floor, 16 inch painted steel wheels spin mirror-like center caps inside fresh stainless trim rings and 235/70 Hankook DynaPro AS wide whitewall tires. And the detailing on the underside of this truck is simple and purposeful with a new stainless fuel tank, new stainless lines and new stainless hardware accenting a gloss black frame a gloss black suspension and mildly undercoated floors.

Twist this awesome GMC’s classy chrome door handles and you’ll find a spectacular Chocolate and Tan interior that’s one of the many highlights of a first-rate custom build. The leather topped dash, which is accented by a smooth coat of body-matched paint, hangs a full set of Auto Meter Carbon Fiber Ultra-Lite gauges between an engine turned instrument panel, controls for the truck’s heat and air conditioning system and a modern Pioneer CD player that’s Bluetooth equipped, MP3 compatible and satellite capable. In front of the dash, a firm split-back seat wears attractive two-tone leather trim which is mimicked by both the headliner and cab panels to add a bit of luxury to an otherwise utilitarian design. At the sides of the dash, custom leather door panels hang great sounding speakers below small armrests, billet door handles and well-integrated power window switches. Under the dash, like-new carpet props color-matched floor mats next to custom kick panels and traditional rubber foot pedals. And in front of the driver, an aftermarket tilt steering column spins a traditional, painted wheel around a billet shift lever and a modern accessory stalk which activates the LS1’s cruise control.

Included with the sale of this first-rate custom is a stack of restoration receipts.
Whether it’s simple nostalgia or their long list of extremely useful design virtues, one thing is certain: trucks NEVER go out of style. And it’s becoming an increasingly rare occurrence to see one of these 50s show stoppers in our RK Motors Charlotte showroom because they sell almost as fast as we post them! If you’re in the market for something that’s every bit as fun as it is cool, this awesome GMC is exactly what you’ve been looking for. Don’t miss the chance to own this unbeatable combination of performance and style!

Specifications:
Basic
Year
1957
Make
GMC
Secondary Make
n/a
Model Name
1/2 Ton Pickup
Secondary Model
n/a
Vehicle Type
Pickup Or Truck
Hobby Segment
Truck
Mileage
1132
Engine / Transmission
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Size
LS1 5.7 Liter V8
Engine Number
n/a
Fuel Specification
n/a
Fuel Delivery System Type
Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission Type
4 Speed Automatic
Transmission Spec
4L60E
Transmission Number
n/a
Misc
Entertainment System Type
AM/FM Single CD
Battery Location
Under passenger side floor board
Battery Shut Off
None
Battery Charger
Charging posts under passenger running board
Interior
Interior Color
Brown & Tan
Seating Type
Bench
Seat Material
Leather
Shifter Type
Column
Center Console
No
Body
Body Style
Pickup Truck
Doors
2
Body Color
Tobacco Copper Metallic
Paint Type
Basecoat/Clearcoat
Stripes
No
Chassis
Front Suspension Type
Double A-arm
Rear Suspension Type
4-Link
Axle Specification
Ford 9"
Front Wheel Specification
16X7
Rear Wheel Specification
16X7
Front Tire Specification
n/a
Rear Tire Specification
n/a
Front Brakes Specification
Power Disc
Rear Brakes Specification
Power Disc
Spare
n/a
Exhaust Type
Dual Exhaust
Muffler Type
FlowMaster
History
Restoration Status
Restored
Mileage Since Restoration
1132
Awards Summary
n/a
Historical Documents Summary
Restoration receipts

www.rkmotorscharlotte.com


Related Post:




List of BMW vehicles

    BMW CS concept car at the 2007 Australian International Motor Show.

The following is a List of BMW vehicles indexed by year of introduction.

Cars
1920s
3/15 saloon 1927-1931

1930s
3/15 DA-3 Wartburg roadster 1930-1931 (based on the 3/15, BMW's first roadster)
3/20 PS 1932-1934
303 saloon 1933-1934 (first use of the "kidney" grille and straight-6 engine)
309 saloon 1934-1936 (a four-cylinder version of the 303)
315 saloon 1934-1937
315/1 roadster 1934-1937 (roadster based on the 315)
319 saloon 1935-1937 (larger-engined version of the 315)
319/1 roadster 1935-1937 (larger-engined version of the 315/1)
329 convertible 1937 (convertible based on the 319)
326 saloon and cabriolet 1936-1941
327 coupé and cabriolet 1937-1941
320 saloon and cabriolet 1937-1938 (based on the 326 with 329 suspension)
321 saloon and cabriolet 1938-1941
BMW 335 sedan 1939 –1941
328 Roadster 1936-1940

1940s
326 sedan and cabriolet 1945-1946 (limited production following World War 2)
321 saloon and cabriolet 1945-1950 (resumed production after World War 2)
327 coupé and cabriolet 1945-1955 (resumed production after World War 2)
340 sedan 1949-1953 (later cars badged as EMW 340)

1950s
501 saloon 1952–1958
BMW 502 1954–1964 (V8-engined version of 501)
Isetta 250 micro car 1955–1956
Isetta 300 micro car 1956–1962
600 micro car 1957–1959 (4 set car based on Isetta 300)
503 coupe and cabriolet 1956–1959
roadster 1956–1959
700 saloon and coupe 1959–1965

1960s
3200 CS coupe 1962–1965 (based on the 503)
1500 saloon 1962–1966 (first of the "New Class" saloons)
1800 saloon 1963–1971
1600 saloon 1964–1968
1602 saloon 1966–1975 (2 door version of 1600)
2000C/CS coupe 1965–1969
E9 coupe 1968–1975
2000 saloon 1966–1972
BMW 2002 saloon 1968–1976 (2 door version of 2000)
E3 saloon 1968–1977

1970s
E12 mid-sized sedan 1972–1981 (first of the "5 series" mid-size sedans)
E24 mid-sized coupe 1976–1989
E21 compact sedan and convertible 1975–1983 (first of the "3 series" compact sedans)
1502 saloon 1975–1977 (1.5L engine version of 2002)
BMW 1802 1975–1977 (1.8L engine version of 2002)
E23 large sedan 1977–1986 (first of the "7 series" large sedans)
BMW M1 supercar 1978–1981 (chassis code E26)

1980s
E28 5 series compact mid-sized sedan 1981–1988
E30 3 series sedan, convertible and estate 1982–1994
Z1 roadster 1989-1991
E32 7 series large sedan 1986–1994
E34 5 series mid-sized sedan 1988–1996
E31 8 series 2+2 coupe 1989–1999

1990s
E36 3 series sedan, coupe, convertible and touring 1990–2000
E36 Compact hatchback 1993–2000 (first generation Compact)
Z3 coupe and roadster 1996–2002
M coupe 1998-2002 (first generation M Coupe)
E39 5 series mid-sized sedan 1995–2003
E53 X5 mid-sized SUV 1999-2006 (BMW's first SUV)
E38 7 series large sedan 1995–2001
E46 3 series sedan, coupe, convertible and touring 1998–2006
E52 Z8 roadster 1999-2003

2000s
E46 Compact hatchback 2000-2004 (second generation Compact)
E65/66/67/68 large sedan 2002–2008
E85/E86 Z4 roadster/coupe 2002–2008 (first generation Z4)
E83 X3 crossover SUV 2003-2010
E60 5 series mid-sized sedan 2003–2010
E63/E64 mid-sized coupe/convertible 2003-2011
E61 estate 2004-2011
E70 X5 mid-sized SUV 2006-present (second generation X5)
E71 X6 mid-sized crossover 2008-present (2 door version of X5)
E81/E87 1 series hatchback 2004-2011 (first generation 1 Series)
E82/E88 1 series small coupe/convertible 2007-2011
X1 compact crossover SUV 2009-present
X3 crossover 2004–present
E90/E91/E92/E93 3 series sedan/touring/coupe/convertible 2005-2011
F01/F02/F03/F04 7 series large sedan 2008-
E89 roadster 2009–present (second generation Z4)
F10 5 series mid-sized sedan 2009–present
F11 5 series mid-sized estate 2009-present
F07 5 series GT 4 door coupe 2009-present

2010s
F12/F13 mid sized coupe/convertible 2011-present
F25 X3 crossover SUV 2011–present
F20 1 series hatchback 2011–present
F30 3 series compact sedan 2012–present

Prototypes

BMW CS Concept
1972 Turbo[1]
1990 M8: A high-performance version of the 8 Series coupe designed to compete with the likes of Ferrari.
1991 E1 Electric car.[2]
1993 Z13[3]
1995 Just 4/2 A two-seater open sports car with a BMW K series motorbike engine positioned behind the driver and passenger.[4][5]
1995 Z18[4]
1999 Z9 Designed by Adrian van Hooydonk that marked a departure from BMW's traditional conservative style, causing some controversy among BMW enthusiasts.[citation needed] This later on became the 6-series.
750hL At Expo 2000. A 7 Series sedan powered by a hydrogen fuel cell engine. As of March 2007, there are as many as 100 750hL vehicles worldwide for testing and publicity purposes.[citation needed]
2000 Z7[6]
2001 X-Coupe
2007 CS Concept
2008 Concept 1 series tii: A high-performance tuned version of the 1 Series. "tii" references the 2002tii model.
2008 GINA Based on the structure of a Z8 with a light fabric skin and hydro-electric technology to allow the shape to change.[7]
2008 Concept X1: BMW's first compact Sports Activity Vehicle.
2008 Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo First of the BMW Progressive Activity Series.
2009 Vision Efficient Dynamics Presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
2009 C1-E An electric version of the C1 scooter.
2010 Gran Coupe First sketches of the new 6 series with 4 doors.

M models
Main article: BMW M#Lineup

Production series codes
BMW 501 - (1952–1958) Sechszylinder Limousine
BMW 502 - (1954–1964) Achtzylinder Limousine
BMW 503 - (1956–1959) Achtzylinder CoupĂ© und Cabrio 1956-59
BMW 507 - (1955–1959) Achtzylinder Roadster
BMW 3200 CS- (1956–1959) Achtzylinder CoupĂ© und 1 Cabrio 1961-65
BMW Typ100 - (1955–1962) BMW Isetta
BMW Typ106 - (1957–1959) BMW 600
BMW Typ107 - (1959–1965) BMW 700
BMW Typ110 - (1961–1964) BMW 700 Cabriolet
BMW Typ114 - (1966–1976) BMW 1600-2, 1602-2002TI, 1502
BMW Typ115 - (1963–1964) BMW 1500
BMW Typ116 - (1964–1966) BMW 1600
BMW Typ118 - (1963–1971) BMW 1800-1800TI/SA
BMW Typ120 - (1966–1970) New Class CoupĂ© 2000C/CS
BMW Typ121 - (1966–1972) BMW 2000-2000tii
BMW E3 — (1968–1977) 2.5, 2.8, 3.0, 3.3 "New Six" sedans
BMW E9 — (1969–1975) 2800CS, 3.0CS, 3.0CSL "New Six" CoupĂ©s
BMW E12 — (1974–1981) 5 Series
BMW E21 — (1976–1983) 3 Series
BMW E23 — (1977–1986) 7 Series
BMW E24 — (1976–1989) 6 Series
BMW E26 — (1978–1981) M1
BMW E28 — (1981–1987) 5 Series
BMW E30 — (1984–1991) 3 Series (1982-1983 E30 sold in Europe)
BMW E31 — (1989–1997) 8 Series
BMW E32 — (1986–1994) 7 Series
BMW E34 — (1988–1995) 5 Series
BMW E36 — (1992–1999) 3 Series
BMW E36/5 — (1995–1998) 3 Series Compact (US market known as "318ti")
BMW E36/7 — (1996–2002) Z3 Series Roadster
BMW E36/8 — (1998–2002) Z3 Series CoupĂ©
BMW E38 — (1994–2001) 7 Series
BMW E38/2 — (1994–2001) 7 Series long wheelbase
BMW E38/3 — (1998–2001) 7 Series Protection
BMW E39 — (1995–2003) 5 Series
BMW E46/5 — (2000–2004) 3 Series Compact
BMW E46/4 — (1998–2005) 3 Series Sedan
BMW E46/3 — (1999–2005) 3 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
BMW E46/2 — (1999–2006) 3 Series CoupĂ©
BMW E46/C — (1999–2006) 3 Series Convertible
BMW E52 — (2000–2003) Z8
BMW E53 — (2000–2006) X5
BMW E60 — (2004–present) 5 Series
BMW E61 — (2004–2007) 5 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
BMW E62 — (2004–2007) 5 Series Protection
BMW E63 — (2004–present) 6 Series CoupĂ©
BMW E64 — (2004–present) 6 Series convertible
BMW E65 — (2001–2007) 7 Series short wheelbase
BMW E66 — (2001–2007) 7 Series long wheelbase
BMW E67 — (2001–2007) 7 Series Protection
BMW E68 — (2005–2007) Hydrogen 7
BMW E70 — (2007–present) X5
BMW E71 — (2008) X6
BMW E72 — (2009) X6 Hybrid
BMW E81 — (2007–present) 1 Series (3-door)
BMW E82 — (2007–present) 1 Series CoupĂ©
BMW E83 — (2004–present) X3
BMW E84 — (2009–present) X1
BMW E85 — (2003–present) Z4
BMW E86 — (2006–present) Z4 CoupĂ©
BMW E87 — (2004–present) 1 Series (5-door)
BMW E88 — (2008) 1 Series Convertible
BMW E89 — (2009) Z4
BMW E90 — (2005–present) 3 Series
BMW E91 — (2005–present) 3 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
BMW E92 — (2006–present) 3 Series CoupĂ©
BMW E93 — (2007–present) 3 Series Convertible
BMW F01 — (2008) 7 Series
BMW F02 — (2009) 7 Series long wheelbase
BMW F03 — (2008) 7 Series Protection
BMW F04 — (2011) 7 Series ActiveHybrid
BMW F07 — (2009) 5 GranTurismo
BMW F10 — (2010) 5 Series
BMW F11 — (2011) 5 Series Touring/Sports Wagon
BMW F12 - (2011) 6 Series
BMW F13 - (2011) 6 Series Convertible
BMW F20 - (2011) 1 Series
BMW F25 - (2012) X3
BMW F30 - (2012) 3 Series

Model nomenclature
Since 1972, BMW model names have generally been a 3 digit number is followed by 1 or 2 letters
the first digit represents the chassis type (e.g. 3 series, 5 series)
the last two digits represent the engine displacement in litres times 10.[8]
the letters provide additional information on the model variant (see below).

Commonly used letters at the end of the model name are:
C = coupé, last used on the BMW E46 and the BMW E63 (dropped after 2005 model year)
c = cabriolet
d = diesel
e = eta, an engine tuned for fuel efficiency rather than power (from the Greek letter 'η')
h = hydrogen
i = injected (fuel injection)
L = long wheelbase
s = sport, this can represent either upgraded interior/cosmetic options or increased engine power depending on the model. For the E36 range, all models with "s" in the name were coupes/convertibles)
sDrive = rear wheel drive
T = touring (wagon/estate)
ti = hatchback for the BMW 3 Series hatchback
td = "Turbo Diesel" ( 524td, 525td/s, 324td, 325td/s, 318tds), or hatchback diesel ( E46 Compact 318td, 320td; E36 Compact 318tds)
x / xDrive = BMW xDrive all wheel drive

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

History, Collecting, Investment, Rarity and Condition Categories

History
The vintage era in the automotive world was a time of transition. The car started off in 1919 as still something of a rarity, and ended up, in 1930, well on the way towards ubiquity. In fact, automobile production at the end of this period was not matched again until the 1950s. In the intervening years, most industrialized states built nationwide road systems with the result that, towards the end of the period, the ability to negotiate unpaved roads was no longer a prime consideration of automotive design.

Cars became much more practical, convenient and comfortable during this period. Car heating was introduced, as was the in-car radio. Four-wheel braking from a common foot pedal was introduced, as was the use of hydraulically actuated brakes.[1] Power steering was also an innovation of this era. Towards the end of the vintage era, the system of octane rating of fuel was introduced, allowing comparison between fuels. In 1923 the gasoline additive Ethyl made its debut at the Indy 500 that resulted in a boost in octane from the 50's to the 80's[2] In the United States drive-in restaurants were introduced as well as suburban shopping centers and motels.

Alfred P. Sloan and Harley Earl of General Motors, and Walter P. Chrysler capitalized on advertising the automobile’s role in the life of the consumer for more than just the utilitarian value compared with the horse. The stock market crash of 1929 started the layoff of automotive workers and many new companies went bankrupt but over two million cars were still produced in 1929 and 1930.[3] Horatio Earle, known as the "Father of good roads" had proposed the government create an Interstate highway system in 1902 and in 1909 built the World's first mile of concrete road on Woodward Avenue in Detroit.

Collecting
For the average person car collecting is a hobby. A person usually has a fascination with a certain vehicle or a history with one so seeks a certain make or model. Finding an antique car at an affordable price is not hard but can be relatively expensive depending on the condition or the desired end result. The less work required on a vehicle equates to a higher price. The more work required means a cheaper initial cost, but more in the long run, and a person's level of restoration experience plays an important part.[8]

Investment
Comedian and avid car collector Jay Leno stated, "Any car can be a collector car, if you collect it."[9] Antique car collecting as an investment can be rewarding but most serious investment collectors seek rare or exotic cars and original unmodified cars hold a more stable price. Collecting as an investment requires expertise beyond enthusiast collecting and the standard of quality is far higher as well as a need for investment protection such as storage and maintenance. A short-term investment collector must be able to find a vehicle that has market value that is expected to rise in the foreseeable near future. A long-term investment collector would be less interested in any short-term value seeking to capitalize on an expected value rise over a period of years and a vehicle must have certain intrinsic values that are common to other investors or collectors of both short and long term.

Rarity
Antique vehicles have a higher value according to the rarity that usually (but not always) resulted in some reason for a lack of numbers at production. Certain year and model cars became popular to turn into hot rods thus destroying the original condition. Other models were produced in such quantities that the price is still not inflated. Market trend is an important part in the price of a vintage car. An "almost" original and in perfect shape model A that was abundantly produced can be purchased for $20,000.00.[10] A collector as an investor would have to know the potential market and have a belief that the future market will bring a return on an investment. Many collectors also tend to have a direction or like for certain vehicles that reflects their expertise.

Condition categories
To collectors and investors, a vehicle's condition rating[11] is important, and there are two systems, the category and the points system. The category system has six categories used to rate the condition of a vehicle. The points system assigns points from 40 to 100 that corresponds with the category system and below 40 there are three for other conditions. Both systems are listed together for ease of comparison:
Category I, Perfect; 90 to 100 points. A vehicle is considered as good or better than the day produced.
Category II, Excellent; 80 to 89 points. A vehicle in excellent original or superior restored, near-flawless condition.
Category III, Fine; 70 to 79 points. A vehicle with an older restoration or an original car with minimal wear. These are considered "show quality".
Category IV, Very good; 60 to 69 points. A vehicle that is in complete original condition, or possibly an older restoration, that is usually a well-cared-for daily driver.
Category V, Good; 50 to 59 points. A vehicle that shows wear, needs attention or work, and needs only minor restoration, with no major flaws. Points from 40 to 59 fall into this category.
category V, Driver; 40 to 49 points.

Other categories
Restorable; 30 to 39 points . This vehicle would be in need of restoration of the motor, body, interior and/or chassis. A car in this class should be more or less complete, needing some parts but requiring a tremendous amount of work to get to show quality.
PARTIAL; 20 to 29 points. This vehicle would require extensive restoration with a significant amount of parts and labor—a very time-consuming and costly prospect.
PARTS CAR; 10 to 19 points. This would generally be an inoperative vehicle in poor condition, kept as a source or 'donor' of spare parts. With the exception of very rare vehicles, complete restoration of this category is usually not feasible.

source: wikipedia.org

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Mercury Monterey

1950
Mercury Monterey
Award Winning Chopped Monterey
Custom 350 V8 Dual Quad






Description:

Engine : 350 V8
Body Style: Hardtop
Miles : 12053
Interior Color: Tan
Exterior Color : Burgundy
Certified Price:  $79,900

Known as ‘The Million Dollar Mercury’ this drop dead gorgeous 1950 Monterey ‘lead sled’ is one of the finest customs in the country.

The build began with a clean ’50 Monterey coupe body which was nosed, decked, shaved, chopped, frenched, customized, and covered in a spectacular Cherry Wine Metallic paint job. Under the hood, a dual quad 350 cubic inch GM crate motor, which rumbles through a deep glasspack exhaust system, was bolted into a fully detailed, completely custom stainless engine bay. At the bottom of the car, a Turbo-Hydramatic 350 was hooked up to a GM 10 bolt rear end which drives an air adjustable Camaro suspension. And inside the car, a custom leather interior was completed in a timeless mixture of classic design and modern amenities.
During its time on the show circuit, this impressive Merc has garnered top honors at over 100 events around the country and received the ISCA Award of Excellence, the K&N Performance Pick at GoodGuys, and the Grand National Award at the Adirondack Nationals.

Specifications:
Basic
Year
1950
Make
Mercury
Secondary Make
n/a
Model Name
Monterey
Secondary Model
n/a
Vehicle Type
Passenger Car
Hobby Segment
Street Rod
Mileage
12053
Engine / Transmission
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Size
350 V8
Engine Number
n/a
Fuel Specification
n/a
Fuel Delivery System Type
Dual 4 Barrel
Transmission Type
3 Speed Automatic
Transmission Spec
Turbohydramatic 350
Transmission Number
n/a
Misc
Entertainment System Type
AM/FM CD Changer
Battery Location
Trunk
Battery Shut Off
Right side of trunk
Battery Charger
None
Interior
Interior Color
Tan
Seating Type
Bucket
Seat Material
Vinyl
Shifter Type
Column
Center Console
Yes
Body
Body Style
Hardtop
Doors
2
Body Color
n/a
Paint Type
n/a
Stripes
No
Chassis
Front Suspension Type
Double A-arm
Rear Suspension Type
Leaf Spring
Axle Specification
10 Bolt
Front Wheel Specification
15X7.5
Rear Wheel Specification
15X6.5
Front Tire Specification
215/70R15
Rear Tire Specification
215/70R15
Front Brakes Specification
Power Disc
Rear Brakes Specification
Power Drum
Spare
215/70R15
Exhaust Type
Dual Exhaust
Muffler Type
Glasspack Style
History
Restoration Status
Restored
Mileage Since Restoration
n/a
Awards Summary
None
Historical Documents Summary
ISCA Award of Excellence; K & N Performance Pick at GoodGuys; Grand National Award at Lake George.
www.rkmotorscharlotte.com




Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Nissan 300ZX

1991
Nissan 300ZX
1 of 1 Nissan 300ZX Hardtop Convertible 3.0L V6







Description:
Engine : 3.0 V6
Body Style: Spyder
Miles : 7505
Interior Color: White
Exterior Color : Green
Certified Price: 49,900

Have you ever seen a concept car at the auto show and wondered if you’d ever be able to buy one? This one-of-a-kind 1991 Nissan 300ZX hardtop convertible was custom built for the 1992 Geneva Auto Show by ASC as a possible production-ready version of a 300ZX convertible. Of course, you know that Nissan never built a hardtop convertible, instead preferring to go with a traditional folding cloth top, but the story doesn’t end there. Read on to find out more.

Nissan redesigned its rear-drive sports car for introduction in spring 1989, adding a turbocharged model that fall. Two curvaceous body styles were offered: a 2-passenger coupe, and a 2+2 coupe with a small back seat. A 222-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 was standard in all models except the 300ZX Turbo, which came only in 2-seater form. Equipped with twin turbochargers and twin intercoolers (one set for each cylinder bank), the four-cam, 24-valve 3.0-liter engine developed 300 horsepower with the 5-speed manual, or 280 horsepower when fitted with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The automatic also was available with the 222 horsepower engine. The Turbo cars had intercooler inlets in the front air dam, a rear spoiler, Z-rated tires, and super HICAS (High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering) 4-wheel steering. That meant the rear wheels first turned slightly in the opposite direction from the front wheels, then in the same direction, to improve stability in fast lane-changes. Antilock braking was standard. Door-mounted front seatbelts could be left buckled, to deploy automatically. A T-top roof was standard on the Turbo model. Other 2-passenger coupes could have a fixed roof or the removable roof panels.

The American Sunroof Corporation, or ASC, has been building convertibles for OEM applications for years, and when the new 300ZX came out, they knew it would only be a matter of time before Nissan would want to market a drop-top version. Introduced at the Geneva Auto Show on March 3, 1992, this Nissan 300ZX convertible with a retractable hardtop was built to highlight the ASC articulating hardtop technology in a fully functional sports vehicle. The challenge in building this vehicle came in retaining the full-width rear seat, which they managed to do, giving this car room for 4. The car features an all-metal folding hardtop that retracts and folds into the rear storage area with the touch of a single button.

The key words with this important car are “all-steel” and “OEM”. ASC built this car as a proposal to Nissan for a convertible 300ZX, and as such, it is built to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards. This is not a one-off custom by some chop shop; this is a 100% production-ready prototype built by the company that builds convertibles for some of the world’s largest automakers. Because of this, every single part has been designed and built with OEM tolerances and finishes, with reliability and functionality on par with anything you would buy at a new car dealer. There are no cobbled-together bits from other convertibles on this Z; this is a fully-engineered hardtop convertible (the first since the Ford Retractable in 1959!) with full weather seals, finished upholstery, and no compromises. The rear window defroster works, the rear quarter windows are power actuated, and the rear seats are completely usable.

It’s also important to note that this car is all steel. No fiberglass was used in the construction. On a project like this, fiberglass would be the obvious choice for its ease of fabrication and the ability to make complex shapes. However, as an OEM supplier, ASC knew they needed to design and build a system that would not only look great, but that would meet OEM standards for fit, finish and production feasibility. That meant steel. As a result, this car is incredibly solid and the workmanship is first-rate. Kudos to the craftsmen at ASC for making it not only functional, but attractive too. Given all the research and development that went into designing this car, not to mention the labor to actually build it, the cost on the project was more than three-quarters of a million dollars! Yes, you read that correctly – this car cost nearly $800,000 to build in 1992. And now you can own it.

The car itself is a stock 4-seater 1991 300ZX with a naturally aspirated 3.0 liter V6 making 222 horsepower and tied to a 5-speed manual transmission. It maintains all the original car’s features and amenities including power windows, power locks, power seats, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, A/C and a powerful AM/FM/CD stereo system with a touch screen interface. It rolls on a set of one-off 17-inch polished aluminum wheels with brand-new 245/40/17 ultra-high-performance tires.

For the show, the car was painted in a custom color called Mayorka Green Pearl, which is sophisticated and very light-dependent. Under some conditions, it looks almost blue, but in bright sunlight, it’s a lovely turquoise. The 100% custom interior is ivory-colored leather with black accents. All the car’s original safety features have been retained, and the seats are incredibly comfortable. It loses none of its daily-driver functionality with the conversion to a convertible, and everything works perfectly. With just 7505 miles on the odometer, the car is in excellent condition throughout and has been used only sparingly as a show car by an ASC employee. Documentation includes the original ASC press kit for the 1992 Geneva Auto Show, slides, and other documentation relating to the program. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a genuine prototype show car.

So whatever happened to the ASC retractable hardtop program? I know I promised you the rest of the story, and it doesn’t end with this car. Although Nissan passed on this project and ultimately went on to produce a cloth-topped 2-seat 300ZX convertible, the idea of a retractable hardtop was immensely appealing to another high-tech Japanese automaker who was bringing an equally potent performance car to the market. That company is Mitsubishi, and the car became the 3000GT Spyder. So the investment and prototype work that went into making this 300ZX an OEM-grade convertible was not for nothing, as Mitsubishi put the ASC system into production in 1995.
If you’re a Nissan fan, this is a unique opportunity to own a very important piece of history. The day is fast approaching when the Nissan Z-cars will take their rightful place in history alongside some important performance machinery, and the cars built in the early 90s rightfully deserve a spot on that list. They ushered in an era of high-performance, technology-laden, rear-wheel-drive Japanese sports coupes that delivered absolutely astounding performance. This car plays an important role in the development of two separate vehicles, is in outstanding condition and is documented. In terms of investments, this is as blue-chip as it gets, and you’ll enjoy your investment every time you push that single button and watch all that steel smoothly vanish beneath the deck lid. This car won’t last.

Specifications:
Basic
Year
1991
Make
Nissan
Secondary Make
n/a
Model Name
300ZX
Secondary Model
n/a
Vehicle Type
Passenger Car
Hobby Segment
Sports Car
Mileage
7505
Engine / Transmission
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Size
3.0 V6
Engine Number
n/a
Fuel Specification
n/a
Fuel Delivery System Type
Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission Type
5 Speed Manual
Transmission Spec
n/a
Transmission Number
n/a
Misc
Entertainment System Type
n/a
Battery Location
n/a
Battery Shut Off
n/a
Battery Charger
n/a
Interior
Interior Color
White
Seating Type
Bucket
Seat Material
Leather
Shifter Type
Floor
Center Console
Yes

www.rkmotorscharlotte.com






Sunday, October 21, 2012

DB4GT & DB4GT Zagato



Two of the most valuable and collectable cars in Aston Martin's history - the DB4GT and DB4GT Zagato remain popular with Aston Martin owners and enthusiasts alike. With a combined volume of just 100 examples in total, these cars have fetched over £1m at auction. As pre-cursors to perhaps the most famous Aston Martin, the DB5, the DB4GT and DB4GT Zagato played a crucial role in defining some of the iconic design cues still used in by Aston Martin today




DB4GT

In October 1959, at the London Motor Show, an exciting new development of the DB4 was unveiled. With a shorter chassis, faired in headlamps and an uprated engine with 3 Weber carburettors, the DB4GT was designed to be equally at home on road and track.

The DB4GT was 85Kg lighter than the DB4 and was raced extensively with success by many famous drivers of the day. 75 ‘Touring’ bodied cars were built including several lightweight versions produced specifically for racing to demonstrate the car’s superb capabilities.

Specifications :
Price New: £ 4,534
Engine: DOHC Straight six, 3670 cc, 302 bhp @ 6000 rpm
240 lbs-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed manual DB
Suspension: Front: Telescopic shock absorbers and anti roll bar
Rear: double action lever arm shock absorbers
Brakes: Girling Servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
Dimensions (LxWxH): 4353 x 1676 x 1321 mm
Weight: 1269 kg
Top Speed: 153 mph  


DB4GT Zagato
In late 1960 the DB4GT Zagato was unveiled at the London Motor Show, clothed in a stunningly beautiful and lightweight body from the famous Italian coachbuilder. Only 19 examples were produced and this rarity is reflected in their high value today.

Four chassis numbers of the original proposed series remained unused and in 1991, four “Sanction 2” Zagatos, bodied in Italy and built by R.S.Williams Ltd in Cobham were produced with authorisation from the factory
.

Specifications
Price New: £ 5,470
Engine: DOHC Straight six, 3670 cc, 314 bhp @ 6600 rpm
240 lbs-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed manual DB
Suspension: Front: Telescopic shock absorbers and anti roll bar
Rear: double action lever arm shock absorbers
Brakes: Girling Servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
Dimensions (LxWxH): 4353 x 1676 x 1321 mm
Weight: 1225kg
Top Speed: 153 mph
0 – 60 mph: 6.1 sec

http://www.astonmartin.com/heritage-cars/db4gt#DB4GT

DB5 & DB5 CONVERTIBLE


DB5
Often billed as the “most famous car in the world”, James Bond’s gadget laden Silver Birch DB5 in Goldfinger became many a schoolboy’s dream. Regarded by many as the most beautiful Aston Martin produced, the DB5 shares many similar traits to the DB4. However, DB5’s most substantial change occurred under the bonnet.

The engine capacity was enlarged to 4 litres by increasing the bore to 96mm. The car had three SU carburettors, as fitted to the outgoing DB4 Vantage, and also shared the latter’s fared in headlamps. Significant too was the introduction of a full synchromesh ZF 5 speed gearbox.
Enhancements




DB5 CONVERTIBLE


Compared to the DB4, chassis changes included the adoption of the Girling disc brakes that had only been used on the DB4GT, along with 15” wheels. Many other improvements were incorporated including electric windows and twin hydraulic brake servos.

A DB5 Vantage was offered with 3 Weber carburettors and different camshafts to offer a higher level of performance.

A Convertible was also offered which was available with an optional steel hard top. A small number of DB5s were built as ‘shooting brakes’, a sportsman’s interpretation of a modern ‘estate’ car, by coachbuilder Harold Radford.



Specifications:
Price New: £ 4,175 (Saloon), £ 4,490 (Convertible)
Engine: DOHC Straight six, 3995 cc, 382 bhp @ 5500 rpm
280 lbs-ft @ 4500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed ZF box or optional Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
Suspension: Front: Telescopic shock absorbers
Rear: Double acting lever arm shock absorbers
Brakes: Girling Twin servo assisted brakes with front and rear solid discs
Dimensions (LxWxH): 4570 x 1676 x 1320 mm (Saloon), 4480 x 1676 x 1322 mm (Convertible)
Weight:  1468kg
Top Speed: 142 mph
0 – 60 mph: 7.1 sec
www.astonmartin.com

Willys

1941
Willys Coupe
Willys Coupe "Champagne Dreams" 540 V8 625 HP







Description:
Engine : 540 V8
Body Style: Coupe
Miles :2372
Stock # 132444
Interior Color: Bone
Exterior Color : Root Beer
Certified Price: $109,900

Cars, like fashion, are cyclical. Who would have thought that in 2011, we’d be looking at a root beer brown and gold 1941 Willys coupe called Champagne Dream and thinking that it’s about the coolest rod we’ve ever seen. Full of modern technology and all the power options you’d want, as well as 625 thundering horsepower, this is a do-anything rod built by pros, and it’s poised to start taking home some very big trophies. It’s also completely sorted, scary fast, and amazingly comfortable. So forget what you remember about the ‘70s, because brown is back in fashion.

OK, so it’s not really brown, it’s a glittering metallic hue from PPG that seems to twinkle in the sunlight. J&R Streetrods built the steel-reinforced fiberglass body and finished it to show-winning standards. Every panel is as flat as Kansas, with a finish that you only find on rods with five-figure paint jobs. The trick flames lick between the two colors separating the upper and lower halves of the car, leaving you wondering if it’s champagne over root beer or vice-versa. And while the shape is ultra-traditional, some new tweaks were added to give this rod a unique personality, including shaved door handles, suicide doors, and rear wheel tubs to handle those massive rear tires. There’s no mistaking a Willys coupe, but this one has an identity all its own thanks to careful workmanship and attention to detail.

Other custom elements include the three-LED tail lights that are flush-mounted to the rear valence panel, a brightly plated Willys grille, and those teardrop-shaped headlights. Standard hot-rodding tricks include a hidden license plate the drops down when the engine fires, and the complete removal of any sign of bumpers or chrome other than the aforementioned grille and head lights. All the glass is new and was hand-fitted to the fiberglass shell before paint, then meticulously installed with all-new weather stripping after the paint had cured.

One thing you won’t have to worry about in this Willys is horsepower. Thanks to a 540 cubic inch GM crate motor that belts out 625 horsepower, this sleek coupe is more than just a parking lot poseur. Inside there’s a 4340 chromoly steel crank, H-beam connecting rods, and a full roller valve train. The fuel and air are mixed by an 850 CFM Holley atop a Holley single-plane intake, and fed to a set of aluminum cylinder heads, and that air filter is a work of art all by itself. Billet Specialties supplied the eye candy such as the valve covers, breathers, and air filter, while just about everything else was either chrome-plated or polished. A March serpentine drive spins the accessories, and this sucker’s loaded: A/C, power steering, power brakes, and a massive PowerMaster alternator all make this Willys more 2011 than 1941. And talk about attention to detail! Note how the flame pattern continues across the smoothed firewall, the perfectly fitted aluminum radiator in the nose, and the well-hidden wiring and plumbing throughout. The result is an extremely impressive engine bay that shows as well as the rest of the car.

The 2×6 tube chassis was also custom fabricated by the guys at J&R, and then powdercoated black for lasting durability. The transmission is a Phoenix heavy-duty 4L80E with a TCI control unit and a street-friendly 2500-RPM stall converter. Currie Enterprises built the custom narrowed Ford 9-inch out back, then stuffed it full of 4.10 gears and a Trac-Lok differential. A set of tubular upper and lower control arms support the front end, and use Air Ride Technologies Shockwave air spring and shock units to control both ride and ride height. Out back, a triangulated 4-link setup hooks the car to the pavement, again with a set of Air Ride Technologies shocks and a set of tubular control arms. GM 11-inch power disc brakes are an effective, reliable setup, and you’ll note that all the plumbing and lines have been skillfully hidden inside the frame rails for a super-sanitary look underneath. That massive 4-inch stainless exhaust system runs along the outside of the frame rails to dump just ahead of the rear wheels, making a sound that’s more top-fuel dragster than Sunday afternoon cruiser. It rides on a set of Billet Specialties GTX01 aluminum wheels wearing 26×7.50R-15 front tires and gigantic 29×18.5R-15LT rear Hoosier Pro-Street radials.

The front-opening doors reveal one of the most beautifully finished cabins this side of a Rolls-Royce Phantom. With acres of bone-colored leather, custom bucket seats, and high-end mocha colored carpets, you aren’t going to want to get out of this car because it’s nicer than your living room. Dolphin supplied the retro-looking gauges that are arrayed across the dash, while a custom console was fabricated to hold power window switches and the controls for the Vintage Air A/C system. Look a little closer and you’ll see those beautifully sculpted door panels match the headliner and trunk, and there are speakers nestled throughout the passenger compartment driven by an overhead Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo system. And save your phone calls, those stylized “W” logos on the door panels were machined just for this car and are not available anywhere at any price. The primary controls are a matching Billet Specialties steering wheel and a Lokar shifter for the transmission, not to mention a Flaming River tilt steering column that makes it easy to get comfortable.

This car comes with a stack of receipts and manuals, and has already won a garage full of awards:

Hottest Hot Rod, 2008 Goodguys Rod and Custom Association Blue Suede Cruise, Norwalk Ohio
Federated Auto Parts Sponsor’s Pick, 2008 Cleveland Autorama
1st place Full Custom Rod Coupe, 2009 Cleveland Autorama
Top 10, 2008 Steel Valley Super Nationals, Salem Ohio
Top Paint Pick, 2008 NSRA Louisville Nationals
Top 12, 2009 Canton Hot Rod Show

The Willys coupe is an icon, no doubt about that. But this one puts a highly unique spin on a familiar face, and the workmanship is flat-out astounding. I can’t imagine what it cost to build this rod, but it undoubtedly took a pile of cash as big as the car itself and more than a year-and-a-half to complete. With 2372 miles on it, everything is fully sorted and it runs down the road like a production car, not a one-off custom. It’s also blindingly fast, if you have the guts to actually put your foot on the floor and let that gigantic big block off the leash. Impossible to duplicate and finished to award-winning standards, this Willys is a new twist on an old idea. Give us a call today!

Specifications
Basic
Year
1941
Make
Willys
Secondary Make
n/a
Model Name
Coupe
Secondary Model
n/a
Vehicle Type
Passenger Car
Hobby Segment
Pro-Street
Mileage
2372
Engine / Transmission
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Size
540 V8
Engine Number
n/a
Fuel Specification
n/a
Fuel Delivery System Type
n/a
Transmission Type
4 Speed Automatic
Transmission Spec
Phoenix 4L80E TCI
Transmission Number
n/a
Misc
Entertainment System Type
n/a
Battery Location
n/a
Battery Shut Off
n/a
Battery Charger
n/a
Interior
Interior Color
Bone
Seating Type
Bucket
Seat Material
Leather
Shifter Type
Floor
Center Console
No
Body
Body Style
Coupe
Doors
2
Body Color
Root Beer
Paint Type
n/a
Stripes
No
Chassis
Front Suspension Type
n/a
Rear Suspension Type
n/a
Axle Specification
Ford 9" 4.11 Richmond
Front Wheel Specification
n/a
Rear Wheel Specification
n/a
Front Tire Specification
n/a
Rear Tire Specification
n/a
Front Brakes Specification
n/a
Rear Brakes Specification
n/a
Spare
n/a
Exhaust Type
n/a
Muffler Type
n/a
History
Restoration Status
n/a
Mileage Since Restoration
n/a
Awards Summary
n/a
Historical Documents Summary
http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com







Aston Martin

1998
Aston Martin DB7
1998 Aston Martin DB7 Volante







Description:

Engine : n/a
 Body Style: Convertible
 Miles : 57683
 Stock #CN10184
 Interior Color: Silver
 Exterior Color : Silver
Certified Price: 34,900


The most beautiful car in the world, and possibly the most beautiful car ever built. That’s a weighty title but the Aston Martin DB7 is well up to the task. Flowing lines form an achingly gorgeous silhouette which is tightly wrapped around its mechanical components—a car like this simply could not be built today, a mere fifteen years after its introduction. Produced in both coupe and convertible form these cars will be standard bearers for generations to come. Expensive new and still highly exclusive this 1998 DB7 Volante is an instant front-of-the-line pass for social events worldwide.

With this car you simply must start outside—it turns heads for the right reasons. Unlike brasher supercars or more showy sports cars, the DB7 oozes class, its unmistakable style marking you out as someone with exquisite taste. Cumberland Gray covers the exterior surfaces and matches the stately persona of the car. Free from defects and in excellent condition the paintwork looks considerably younger than the 10 years old it is. New Bridgestone Potenza Pole Position S02 tires wrap around the original wheels. Lights and lenses are in excellent shape as are the badges and chrome trim. The top is neither torn nor discolored and the mechanism functions as new. The glass is original and in excellent condition. This is an exclusive car amongst exclusive cars: Only 240 were imported in 1998, coupe or Volante. Aston typically produces its cars in low volume and the price tag north of $150,000 certainly shortens the buyer list considerably.

The DB series was named after Sir David Brown (the head of Aston Martin from 1947–1972). He was a natural adventurer who owned race horses, played polo, raced cars and motorcycles, and was a qualified pilot. In 1947, Brown saw a classified advertisement in The Times, offering for sale a High Class Motor Business. Brown acquired Aston Martin for £20,500 and the rest is history.

The powerful supercharged inline six and smooth five-speed manual transmission make the DB7 a relaxed cruiser with the potential to turn into a very fast cross country machine should you chance upon a clear country road. You’ll find the original engine under the bonnet, hand built and serialized on a plaque on the cam cover. Wiring, plumbing and other distractions are hidden under side covers or tucked out of the way. The powerplant gives this car superb speed, with a top speed of 171 mph. It also gives the DB7 great acceleration and power, going from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. There’s an air of presentation when the bonnet is lifted forward and the engine revealed—this is an Aston, after all.

Freshly serviced this Volante is ready to tour. Within the last year Bobby Rahal Aston Martin in PA replaced the tires, all coolant hoses, the A/C compressor and more. There are more than $7,000 worth of receipts—if you’re buying a car like this it’s important to know it’s been to a specialist!

The interior sports a pair of the most comfortable seats you’re likely to find anywhere. They look fantastic, are in like new shape and they retain the scent you’ll only get from Connolly leather. The plush carpets are in excellent condition, as are all of the hand stitched leather surfaces. Everything functions as new, and the only addition to the car is a new JVC CD player with an integrated HD tuner. You feel special simply sitting in the car…and that’s before you twist the key and take it out where you’ll be seen.
It’s rare to meet anyone who isn’t impressed by the DB7’s lithe yet discrete styling, and even with the top down the Volante makes many other cars look clumsy. Rivals like the Jaguar XKR convertible may offer similar performance but Aston Martin has far more cachet than its rival marque from Coventry, and even Ferrari struggles to match the prestige and exclusivity associated with Aston. The company remains a quintessentially English marque and is proud of its heritage. So if you crave exclusivity, style and class this DB7 is what you’re after.

Specifications:
Basic
Year
1998
Make
Aston Martin
Secondary Make
n/a
Model Name
DB7
Secondary Model
n/a
Vehicle Type
Passenger Car
Hobby Segment
Luxury
Mileage
57683
Engine / Transmission
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Size
n/a
Engine Number
n/a
Fuel Specification
n/a
Fuel Delivery System Type
n/a
Transmission Type
5 Speed Manual
Transmission Spec
n/a
Transmission Number
n/a
Misc
Entertainment System Type
n/a
Battery Location
n/a
Battery Shut Off
n/a
Battery Charger
n/a
Interior
Interior Color
Silver
Seating Type
Bucket
Seat Material
Leather
Shifter Type
Floor
Center Console
Yes
www.rkmotorscharlotte.com
http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com








Thursday, October 18, 2012

Porsche

1961
Porsche 356 B Super
Frame Off Restored Porsche 356B Super 1.6L 4 Speed







Description
Engine : 1.6 Liter
Body Style:Coupe
Miles :76747
Stock #132901
Interior Color:Black
Exterior Color:Red
Certified Price: $79,900

Is there any sports car manufacturer that’s remained truer to its heritage than Porsche? The brand has single-handedly built an 81 year legacy out of performance minded engineering while designing some of the most endearing cars ever produced. And today, as one of the most well respected car companies on the planet, they enjoy a tremendous following that has spawned a positively gigantic support system. Not surprisingly the value of their early models, like this rare 1961 356B, is starting to go through the roof! And if you’re a serious sports car collector who is looking for the perfect investment opportunity or someone who just wants something that’s classy, different and fun, the time to buy is RIGHT NOW. As one of only 1,047 1961 356B notchbacks to roll down Porsches Zuffenhausen assembly line this two owner 1600 Super is the beneficiary of a recent frame-off, nut and bolt restoration which utilized largely NOS parts to complement its original drive-train and all original sheet-metal. Are you a savvy gearhead who’s looking for a cool car that will bring years of enjoyment and excellent long-term appreciation? This classic Porsche is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for!

Sporting a smooth coat of classic red urethane, this fully sorted and completely road ready 356B began life in the hands of a passionate sports car owner who trusted one factory trained service technician for all of his yearly maintenance needs. When it came time to sell the car, that technician was the first person to produce a check; and in 2009, he performed a ground up restoration which utilized 30 years of accumulated NOS parts to supplement what was already a solid and highly original car. The mild body work began with a completely stripped steel shell that was fine tuned to perfection and fully prepped for modern paint. Once the doors and bonnets were aligned to better than factory standards, the car was disassembled, evenly coated in two-stage basecoat/clearcoat paint and sanded and buffed to a clean, wet-look shine. The result is a spectacular classic sports car which has timeless appeal, looks outstanding on the show field and feels right at home motoring down the street.

As the rarest model of the 1961 Porsche 356B line, the Notchback is essentially a 356B Cabriolet which wears a factory welded hardtop and a few unique trim pieces. And this showroom fresh car, with its all original sheet metal and NOS replacement parts, could be the nicest ’61 Notchback in existence! At the front of the car, a familiar stretched nose holds a chrome trimmed hood over a stylish, showroom fresh chrome bumper. At the sides of that hood, classic Porsche headlights, which are sealed in pristine chrome surrounds, prop small parking lights above stylish turn signals that are integrated into small chrome grilles. At the top of the car, pristine late generation 356 curved glass is bordered by spotless aluminum trim, metallic silver wipers and correct chrome mirrors; and at the sides of the car, straight aluminum rocker moldings run parallel to factory fresh chrome door handles. At the back of the car, a vertical chrome grille pipes air into the engine compartment above a traditional gold “Porsche 1600 Super” script; and classy, cat eye tail lights function perfectly between bright square reflectors, a second showroom fresh chrome bumper, a small chrome trimmed reverse light and fully integrated exhaust tips.

Powering this sharp ’61 Porsche is the cars original 1600 cc air cooled, flat four cylinder engine, which wears a correct 616/2 type number and a P*085653* serial number. Completely rebuilt during the cars restoration, it creates strong 8 to 1 compression, produces that famous and distinctive boxer sound that early German cars are known for, and will likely speed along forever with a minimum of fussing and tuning. At the sides of the engine, dual Zenith 2-barrel carburetors mix air from gloss black, correctly decaled single snorkel air cleaners with fuel from fresh stainless fuel lines. And at the front of the engine, a new V-belt snakes around correct steel pulleys just below a Fram branded oil filter case. Fire is supplied by a Bosch ignition module which sends spark to a correct Bosch coil, a correct generator and a correct points distributor; and cooling is provided by a correctly shrouded, correctly painted and correctly decaled factory fan. Spent gases are handled by a factory fresh Porsche replacement exhaust system; and like the rest of the car, the entire engine bay has been restored to show quality standards. With its fresh paint, new chrome and spotless components, this is definitely the kind of classic you’ll want to show off every chance you get!

As one of the cars that pioneered nimble rear engine, rear wheel drive powertrains, the 356 was generally praised for its exceptional handling, especially in 1961 when Koni shocks and lower spring rates became standard equipment. Take one look underneath this B Notchback and you’ll see just how much work went into its complete, nut and bolt restoration. Both the front and rear suspensions have obviously been completely rebuilt all the way from the cars 23mm torsion bars to its ‘camber compensator’ spring, and now feature fresh bushings, fresh shocks and a correct anti-sway bar. At the back of the car, power flows from the 1600 cc motor into a 4-speed manual transmission which displays a July (7) of 1961 (1) build date, a correct 741 casting number and a correct 741/2 type stamp that translates to a BBBD gear ratio. And at the corners of the car, large, original aluminum brake drums, which have been media beaded and completely rebuilt with new hardware, new pads, and fresh hoses, sit behind correct 15 inch silver wheels that spin new 165-15 Michelin XZX tires around pristine stainless center caps. The bottom of this spotless Porsche looks spectacular with all-new stainless hardware and semi-gloss black suspension pieces contrasting well against the cars straight and solid unitized floor. And you can drive or show the car with the confidence of knowing that there aren’t any hidden surprises waiting for you down the road!

Pop open this Porsches solid feeling doors and you’ll find a completely restored black vinyl interior which is the perfect spot to spend the afternoon cruising. Both the front and rear passengers enjoy firm, rebuilt bucket seats that are anchored by mirror-like chrome hardware and pristine gray carpet. And at the sides of the car, brand new kick panels combine with fresh door panels, fresh map pockets and fresh chrome handles to add a little form to well-designed function. At the top of the car, a tight white headliner stretches from door to door between cool, ambient dome lights. And at the front of the car, a freshly painted dash props a straight-out-of-the-box pad above clear, minimalist gauges, a standard issue Porsche radio delete and a snazzy passenger’s side pull handle. In front of the driver, an awesome looking Porsche steering wheel makes good use of the cars fresh suspension. And in front of the cockpit, you’ll find a spacious, by sports car standards, front hatch which has been fully restored and houses a correct spare tire.

Included with the sale of this rare 1961 Porsche is an original owner’s manual, an era correct service manual, a stack of notes, restoration receipts and restoration photos, and some general information about the production and serial numbers associated with the car.
This Porsche is, without a doubt, one of the best and most unique collector cars your money can buy. And for the savvy gearhead who wants to enjoy his car while gaining a little equity, it’s an unbeatable value. If you’re looking for a virtually perfect classic that will provide good times and great returns, this 356B is your car!

Specifications
Basic
Year
1961
Make
Porsche
Secondary Make
n/a
Model Name
356
Secondary Model
B Super
Vehicle Type
Passenger Car
Hobby Segment
Sports Car
Mileage
76747
Engine / Transmission
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Size
1.6 Liter
Engine Number
n/a
Fuel Specification
n/a
Fuel Delivery System Type
Dual 1 Barrels
Transmission Type
4 Speed Manual
Transmission Spec
n/a
Transmission Number
n/a
Misc
Entertainment System Type
n/a
Battery Location
n/a
Battery Shut Off
n/a
Battery Charger
n/a
Interior
Interior Color
Black
Seating Type
Bucket
Seat Material
Vinyl
Shifter Type
Floor
Center Console
No
Body
Body Style
Coupe
Doors
2
Body Color
n/a
Paint Type
n/a
Stripes
No
Chassis
Front Suspension Type
n/a
Rear Suspension Type
n/a
Axle Specification
n/a
Front Wheel Specification
n/a
Rear Wheel Specification
n/a
Front Tire Specification
n/a
Rear Tire Specification
n/a
Front Brakes Specification
n/a
Rear Brakes Specification
n/a
Spare
n/a
Exhaust Type
n/a
Muffler Type
n/a
History
Restoration Status
Restored
Mileage Since Restoration
100
Awards Summary
n/a
Historical Documents Summary
Original manuals, service manual, restoration/parts receipts & photos.
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