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Route 66 Service Station Saves the Day

Part of owning a classic car is recognizing—and accepting—the fact that you have to “expect the unexpected.” When I set out on a recent 2,700-mile road trip from Phoenix to Vermont for this year’s National Acura Legend Meet, I carried a trunk full of replacement parts. After all, I was 100% aware that, at a moment’s notice, I could need an alternator, starter, main relay, gallon of coolant, or a myriad of other things. I’ve also gotten in the habit of carrying a full-sized spare tire. A car with nearly 600,000 miles on the odometer could be a ticking time bomb.

But of all the times to experience to a critical part failure, I didn’t anticipate it would be on the first day of a five-day cross-country adventure . . . in a rural part of Arizona . . . on a holiday weekend, just a few hours from home. That’s how things played out, and it was thanks to a small mom-and-pop car repair facility that I miraculously continued my journey later that same day and made it to my destination three time zones away, on perfect schedule later in the week.

It was about 12 miles west of Holbrook, Arizona, when the battery light illuminated in my car. I had flashbacks of the previous time it had happened 16 years ago, just outside Las Vegas. That had been about 200,000 miles prior, so it was not shocking. It was, however, inconvenient. I managed to get the car to a truck stop just west of town and started the process of running through phone numbers for any and all repair facilities I could find. Unfortunately, Holbrook is a town of fewer than 5,000 people, most of whom were already enjoying Labor Day weekend. I only managed to go through several places, some of which referred me to mobile mechanics or other resources. I did manage to find one shop that would install my part, so I limped the car there using a battery jump pack (another handy lifesaver, I’ve learned).

Unfortunately, after waiting an hour and a half, I determined I’d been stood up. In a bit of desperation, I took to the phone again. This time, I even called the businesses that said “Closed” according to Google. To my surprise, a voice answered the phone at Arizona Auto Service on Route 66. I explained my predicament and they said, “Bring it down.” Somehow, I was again able to start the car and drive about three more miles just before my battery pack lost voltage and I had to coast to the side of the road about a half-block from the facility. (Incidentally, Arizona Auto was located just several blocks from the Wigwam Motel.)

The hospitality that I experienced next was unprecedented. The shop was bustling with activity—deep in preparations for an upcoming demolition derby at the Navajo County Fair. But they dropped what they were doing, helped me push the car to a service bay, and got to work with the install. Meanwhile, I got to know the family members who were there and even watched them paint some accessories for the demolition derby cars. In short order, the shop foreman, Frank, said I was good to go and asked me to fire up the car so he could test the voltage output. Everything checked out, and my sense of optimism reached new heights.

I insisted on paying more for the alternator installation than Frank wanted to charge me. I also insisted on letting him take a picture with the entire crew before I continued my journey. I drove away with a deepened appreciation and respect for the compassion of people in the automotive community who are willing to help one another. The experience solidified my conviction that the automotive community is one big family.

As a follow-up expression of gratitude, I reached out to Arizona Auto the following week to let them know that my new alternator got me to Vermont successfully, and I wished them luck on the demolition derby. Maybe next year I’ll join them!

Attucks Apex AP-0 Concept at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Collector Car Network Media got a close look at one of the most talked-about concept cars on the Pebble Beach Concept Lawn this year: the Attucks Apex AP-0, which is backed by musician and car enthusiast Wyclef Jean.

In this video, we break down what makes this electric supercar unique, from its ultra-light carbon fiber monocoque and exposed aero-focused design to its 650-horsepower rear-mounted motor and sub-2.5-second 0–60 mph time. What could this mean for the next generation of supercars? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.

This video is sponsored by our friends at Borro. For the trusted source in liquidity when you need it most, call Borro today at (720) 458-6788 or learn more at borro.com.

Subscribe to the CCN Media YouTube channel for more Monterey Car Week 2025 content.

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Custom Convertible

Sometimes, the only thing “classic” about a classic car is the model year listed on its title. Here’s one example of a car that went through a nut-and-bolt refresh and is just as youthful as the day it was new: this 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Custom Convertible featured on AutoHunter. It is being sold by a dealer in Paso Robles, California, and the auction will end Friday, September 26, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. (PDT).

While staying true to its original body lines, the car has modernized and enhanced in every mechanical aspect. During a frame-off restoration that was completed in 2024, it received a custom chassis from Newman Car Creations. Take a look at the underbody photos included in the listing—it’s essentially a brand-new car despite its “official” age being 70 years old.

The 1955 Chevrolet is undisputed American icon; it paved the way for the 1956 and 1957 models that would complete the “Tri-Five” series. The American Tri-Five Association is just one of any nationwide organization dedicated to the display, restoration, preservation, and appreciation of such cars. Next year’s Tri-Five Nationals will be held August 15, 2026, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. A 1956 Chevrolet will be given away too!

Exterior features for this clean, custom machine include a Cobalt Blue and Pearl White two-tone paint job, dark blue power-retractable top, chrome brightwork, and dual side mirrors. Grip comes from a set of BFGoodrich tires wrapped around 17-inch American Racing polished aluminum wheels.

The cabin has its share of upgrades, too, starting with front bucket seats and a custom center console, courtesy of Dave Stoeckel of Fresno, California. Features include a Vintage Air A/C system, power windows, tilt steering column, and Bluetooth-compatible audio system. The odometer reads 1,630 miles, but title reads mileage-exempt.

We’ve talked in the past about how GM “LS” engines have become so popular in restomod-type restorations (here’s a story from a number of years ago that gives an overview of LS history). True to tradition, this car employs an LS2 6.0-liter V8 mated to a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission. But the build doesn’t stop there, as the Chevy also has a Magnuson supercharger and has been dyno-tested to produce 450 horsepower.

For those not familiar with Magnuson Superchargers, the Ventura, California-based company was founded about 40 years go. It produces a wide range of supercharger systems, most of which are straightforward bolt-ons that use Eaton rotors. While results vary by application, Magnuson says most applications elevate a stock vehicle’s performance by as much as 45%.

The engineering upgrades don’t stop there, as the build sheet also includes a carbon-fiber driveshaft, C4 Corvette suspension, Wilwood four-wheel power disc brakes, and Flowmaster dual exhaust system. Overhauled? I’d say so. In fact, I’d dare say this ’55 is ready to drive to Bowling Green for next year’s Tri-Five Nationals—no matter how far that drive may be.

The auction for this 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Custom Convertible ends Friday, September 26, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. (PDT). The winning bidder will receive restoration photos, an owner’s manual, and build receipts.

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

Pick of the Day: 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 Convertible

There seems to be a misconception that the Mercury Cougar was a luxury variant of the Ford Mustang, but that is not quite true. Take a look at the interior of a 1967 Cougar and it’s clearly not a luxury pony car. However, the Cougar would eventually turn into a personal luxury vehicle. Our Pick of the Day shows the evolution of this transformation while also playing another role. This 1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7 convertible is currently listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Milford, Michigan.

Some may say, “But what about the XR-7?” Yes, Mercury added leather and wooden touches to the interior, but it could be argued that the interior invoked more of a European GT flavor than anything else. Could that be considered luxury? Maybe, but it still doesn’t make the Cougar a luxurious variant of the Mustang—not compared to the luxury available in a Lincoln.

The Cougar’s first restyle for 1969 was the first step in that direction. The wheelbase continued to be a generous 111 inches, but length grew by 3.5 inches and width by more than two. A sweeping, sculpted body crease similar to that on some Buicks certainly imparted a more upscale image. Inside, even the standard Cougar received an upgrade in appointments. And the XR-7? It continued to be furnished with “supple vinyl upholstery, accented by touches of genuine leather” with the effect now being more luxurious than GT, though Mercury continued to tout the “sports car mystique” with “European style and flair.” Each Cougar model continued to offer standard bucket seats, a floor shifter, concealed headlamps, sequential taillamps, and a standard V8. New on the roster was a convertible, available on the both standard and XR-7 Cougars.

Engines were a mixture of old and new. New was the 351 Windsor; one with 250 horsepower and a two-barrel carburetor was the standard engine for all Cougars. Opt for the four-barrel and horsepower jumped to 290. The importance of this engine cannot be understated because the competition offered several mid-300ci engines, which Ford’s engine portfolio failed to meet toe-to-toe until 1969.

Making a return for the last time was the 390, now rated at 320 horsepower. The top option for the Cougar was the 428 Cobra Jet, which was available with or without ram air induction; when the former was ordered, you received a hood scoop and stripes on the hood. Add the Drag Pak and you’d receive upgraded engine components, an external oil cooler, and 3.91 or 4.30 gears.

By 1972, the second year of the Cougar’s third generation, the XR-7 began to outsell the base model, completing the Cougar’s evolution from upscale pony car to personal luxury coupe and convertible. This Red 1969 Cougar XR-7 convertible plays double duty in another manner: Yes, it has the upscale appointments, but it also has upscale power thanks to an “R-code” 428 Cobra Jet with ram air. Only 96 R-codes were built with an automatic transmission—check out the list of options on the Marti Report: Traction-Lok differential with 3.25 gears, a collapsible spare tire, whitewall F70 x 14 Wide Ovals, power windows, a console, power front disc brakes, power steering with tilt-away feature, hood pins, power ventilation, an AM/FM stereo, Styled Steel wheels, a white power convertible top, and Deluxe seat belts. Retail price was almost $5,100 new. The original buyer worked for Ford so (s)he took advantage of company perks to spec out this vehicle.

LED headlamps and taillights are one update. Air conditioning is another. A third is the white interior with red components, as the original seating material was Dark Red vinyl and leather. None detract from the essence of this vehicle, which is perhaps the most luxurious muscle car out there. Rather than shop for both a classic Lincoln and a Mustang, you can get everything both cars offer in one vehicle for $115,000.

Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com

30-Years-Owned, 350-Powered ’34 Ford Coupe Street Rod

This ’34 Ford is a fiberglass-bodied coupe that was built around 1990 and acquired by its current owner in 1995. The full-fendered, three-window body is painted metallic champagne, and it is mounted on a custom frame with a Mustang II-style front end and a coil-spring rear suspension. The 350ci has a Holley carburetor and headers, and it is linked to a three-speed automatic transmission. The interior has been customized with bucket seats, a Jensen stereo, and a Lokar shifter. This ’34 street rod is now offered by the seller on behalf of its former owner’s estate with transferable New York registration listing the car as a 1934 Ford.

The full-fendered fiberglass body is mounted on a custom frame and painted metallic champagne. It has a chopped top and chrome bumpers. The antenna is missing.

The car rides on 14″ and 15″ wire wheels with staggered tires, and it has a Mustang II-style front end and a coil-spring rear suspension.

Bucket seats and a Lokar shifter were installed along with a Jensen cassette stereo linked to Pioneer speakers mounted in the door cards and behind the seats.

The three-spoke wheel is mounted on a GM column. The five-digit odometer shows under 2,700 miles, approximately 1,500 of which were added under current ownership.

The 350ci V8 is topped by a Holley carburetor, and a Holley fuel pump was also used along with headers and a dual-circuit master cylinder. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission.

The vehicle is located in a state that does not issue titles to vehicles of its age. It is being offered on its expired transferable New York registration, which serves as an ownership document, and lists the body number shown on the reproduction tag above as the VIN.

Fuel-Injected, 5.0L-Powered Factory Five Racing ’33 Hot Rod Coupe

This Factory Five Racing ’33 Hot Rod was built by the current owner between 2010 and 2013, and it is powered by a fuel-injected 5.0-liter Ford V8 linked to an AOD four-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. The composite body is mounted to a powder-coated tubular steel chassis equipped with an independent front suspension, a triangulated four-link rear setup, Koni coilovers, four-wheel disc brakes, and 15” wire wheels with staggered tires. The black cabin features a center console, air conditioning, a Lokar shifter, a Dual CD head unit, Simpson lap harnesses, and AutoMeter gauges. A single windshield wiper, louvered hood side panels, and side exhaust outlets are among the other highlights. This ’33 Hot Rod is now offered by the seller on behalf of the owner with an Arizona title listing the car as a 1933 RCON.

The hand-laid composite body is styled after a 1933 Ford three-window coupe, and it has been finished in black with green pinstriping along the character line. A single windshield wiper was mounted above the windshield, and louvered hood side panels were added after the initial build to aid cooling. Other highlights include a polished grille and headlight buckets, round side mirrors, rear-hinged doors, and side exhaust outlets. The seller notes bubbling paint on the roof.

The tubular steel chassis was powder-coated in green prior to final assembly and features a cantilever front suspension, a triangulated four-link rear setup, and Koni adjustable coilovers all around.

Painted 15” wire wheels wear polished hubcaps and trim rings and are wrapped in 195/60 General Altimax HP front tires and 28×12.00” Mickey Thompson Sportsman rear units. Braking is handled by four-wheel discs.

The cabin features bucket seats trimmed in black upholstery, which extends to the headliner and door panels. A center console with built-in cupholders has been added, and additional appointments include air conditioning, a Lokar shifter, Simpson lap harnesses, and a Dual XDMA6510 CD head unit.

The leather-wrapped billet steering wheel is mounted on a tilt column and sits ahead of AutoMeter instrumentation consisting of a 120-mph speedometer, a 7k-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary gauges. The digital odometer indicates 6,400 miles.

The battery is located in the trunk, and an Optima Red Top unit was installed in 2022. An external fuel filler leads to a 13-gallon fuel tank.

The seller states that the 5.0-liter HO V8 and AOD four-speed automatic transmission were sourced from a 1995 Ford Mustang. The engine is equipped with electronic fuel injection, and the aluminum radiator is cooled by an electric puller fan.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through an 8.8” rear end with a limited-slip differential, 3.27:1 gearing, and a finned aluminum cover. An oil change was performed in June 2025.

The car is titled as a 1933 RCON using the VIN F5R1000199HR. The California Bureau of Automotive Repair sticker identifies it as a 2011 SPCN powered by a 1995 Ford 5L engine and lists an SB-100 status.

Willow Springs Raceway Reimagined: All the 2025 Updates for the “Fastest Road in the West”

Change is coming to the legendary Willow Springs International Raceway. Following its acquisition in April 2025 by a partnership between CrossHarbor Capital Partners and Singer Vehicle Design, America’s oldest permanent road course is undergoing a major revitalization. While preserving its historic charm, the new ownership has already rolled out significant upgrades to two key circuits: the Streets of Willow and the kart track.

This is the beginning of a multi-phase effort to enhance safety and the overall experience for racers and enthusiasts alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest updates.

Streets of Willow gets a serious refresh

The beloved 1.8-mile road course, Streets of Willow, has received the most notable changes. The updates were designed to improve track safety and create a more challenging layout.

  • Fresh asphalt and curbs: The entire circuit has been repaved with new asphalt, replacing the old, cracked surfaces. This is complemented by new internal and external curbs for a cleaner and more consistent driving line.
  • Revised layout: For safety and variety, several layout changes have been implemented.
    • New chicanes: Three new chicanes have been added to the layout to manage speeds and add technical complexity. Two optional chicanes are now located between turns 8 and 9.
    • Modified pit entry: The old s-curve leading to the skidpad has been replaced by a longer, single, decreasing-radius turn.
    • Removed features: To accommodate these changes, the optional chicane between turns 11 and 12 and the crossovers connecting to turns 4 and 6 have been removed.
  • Enhanced run-off areas: The perimeter of the course now features more runoff and added gravel, which will help slow down off-track excursions.

The kart track is fully rebuilt

The 0.625-mile kart track was not simply resurfaced—it was completely rebuilt from the ground up. A brand new layer of asphalt has been laid down, ensuring a perfectly smooth surface for go-karts and other small vehicles. Like the Streets of Willow, the track also features new curbing and an updated aesthetic with the raceway’s new green and off-white color scheme.

Upcoming safety and facility improvements

The upgrades announced so far are just the first phase of the raceway’s new era. More improvements are planned for the fall and beyond.

  • Increased safety barriers: Additional safety measures are being added, including new tire barriers, Armco guardrail, and air fences.
  • Refreshed branding: A new, stylized checkered-flag logo has been introduced, marking the beginning of a full rebranding effort.
  • Future amenities: The new ownership group has ambitious long-term plans to transform the facility into a comprehensive motorsports destination. Future developments will include:
    • Renovations to all tracks, pits, and paddocks.
    • Enhanced food and beverage options.
    • A private members’ club hosted by Singer.
    • A technology hub for race teams.
    • Retail, storage, and restoration facilities for enthusiasts.

Get a first look at “Willow Springs Reimagined”

To celebrate the first round of renovations, Willow Springs is hosting a special public event titled “Willow Springs Reimagined,” on October 11, 2025. The event will feature an exclusive car show, on-track action, and vehicles from the Petersen Automotive Museum and Singer.

“We are excited to preserve the history of Willow Springs while continuing to make improvements that establish it as the premier venue for motorsport enthusiasts of all kinds,” said Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners and representative of the Willow Springs ownership group.

“This is just the first phase of our plans for this iconic facility, and we’re excited to show off the work we’ve completed so far at the Willow Springs Reimagined event on October 11,” Byrne said.

What the updates mean for enthusiasts

For decades, Willow Springs has been a beloved institution, revered for its challenging layout and rustic desert atmosphere. While some may feel nostalgic for the old track, the new ownership group, guided by a team of motorsports experts, is committed to preserving its character while ensuring its longevity.

For track day regulars, racers, and fans, the Willow Springs updates are a significant victory. The new ownership has demonstrated a clear commitment to improving safety and preserving the facility’s legacy, all while investing in a world-class experience for the entire motorsports community. The future looks fast, safe, and brighter than ever for “The Fastest Road in the West.”

The post Willow Springs Raceway Reimagined: All the 2025 Updates for the “Fastest Road in the West” appeared first on The Online Automotive Marketplace.

Getting Ready for the Hemmings Motor Club Two-Day, Paso Robles Rally

Every good road trip has two possible outcomes. The first: you’re blasting down some forgotten stretch of two-lane tarmac, the tach needle dancing in the red, sun shining, windows down, with a soundtrack that’s provided by that angry mill that sits under the bonnet. The second: you’re on the side of that same road, hood popped, sweat pouring, watching the one guy in the group with in a classic Toyota Supra disappear into the horizon because he had the good sense to bring spare parts.

The HMC Rally? It’s going to give you both opportunities—depending on how much prep work you do before rolling out of Los Angeles or San Francisco. The roads are twisty, the scenery is stunning, the desert is merciless, and at the end of Day 1, Paso Robles is waiting with great food, killer accommodations and comradery, and a bed whose sole goal is prep you for the following days drive.

But none of that matters if your car doesn’t make it past mile 50.

Prep Like You Mean It

Cooling System
This is the one that bites people every single time. You think your car runs fine because it never overheats on the freeway. That’s cute. Try creeping uphill in 95-degree heat, behind a line of cars, with the A/C on kill, when suddenly that 20-year-old radiator hose explodes like a steam bubble in a hot red sauce. I’ve been there, and it SUCKs – so do yourself a favor: flush the coolant, swap the hoses, and bring a spare belt.

Brakes
These roads aren’t gentle. They go up, they go down, and they throw hairpins at you like you’re driving through an Italian hillclimb. If your pads are thin or your fluid is ancient, you’ll know it—usually about halfway down a mountain when your pedal turns to mashed potatoes. Change it now.

Suspension & Steering
If your car wanders on the freeway, guess what? On a backroad, it’s going to feel like you’re trying to wrangle a shopping cart full of bowling balls. Tighten it up—shocks, bushings, tie rods. If it feels sketchy in your driveway, it’s going to feel terrifying on a canyon road.

Tires
I cannot stress this enough: stop showing up with tires older than your dog. I don’t care if they have “plenty of tread.” Rubber ages, and when it blows, it’s not dramatic—it’s dangerous. Get fresh tires, check your spare, and for once in your life, carry an actual tire gauge.

Electrical
You know who never finishes rallies? The guy whose alternator dies in the desert. Bring extra fuses. Check your grounds. Maybe even pack a spare ignition module. Electrical gremlins don’t fix themselves on the side of the road.

The Small Stuff
Water. Sunscreen. First-aid kit. Fire extinguisher. A snack bag. It’s not glamorous, but neither is explaining to your buddies how you got second-degree burns trying to push-start your old Alfa in the middle of the desert.

What Cars Do Well Out Here?

The best part about this rally is the mix. You’ll see everything from carbureted bruisers to modern performance cars, and every one of them has its moment.

The ’60s and ’70s Heavy Hitters: They’ve got presence, they’ve got torque, and they’ve got style. But they’re also heavy, hot, and built at a time when “reliability” meant “it started twice this week.” If you bring one, make sure it’s sorted. A big-block Charger looks great at the start line, but it looks even better when it actually makes it to Paso Robles under its own power.

The ’80s and ’90s GT Cars: These are the sweet spot. BMWs, classic JDM, Porsches, Corvette’s, Aston’s and Ferrari’s — these are built to cover ground quickly, with enough comfort to keep you sane and enough chassis to keep it fun. Plus, most of them still have things power windows and working HVAC.

The 2000–2010 Modern Classics: The easy button. 996 and 997 Porsches, C5 and C6 Corvettes, BMW M3s, a plethora of Audi’s and killer JDM variants and even newer Mustangs and Camaros. Reliable, quick, and comfortable. Sure, they don’t have the same romance as a carbureted V8, but when you’re cruising with the A/C blowing cold, you’ll realize there’s something to be said for modern convenience.

The Newer Stuff—2010-beyond: If you love it and it gets your tingly bits move, then we love it to. But just because it’s newer, that doesn’t mean that the above rally prep doesn’t apply. Give it a once over. Check your tires, fluids, brakes and HVAC, and then get it ready to roll.

The Point of the Whole Damn Thing

At the end of the day, nobody cares how much horsepower you’ve got or whether your paint is concours-ready. What matters is that your car is prepped, it runs, and it makes you laugh every time you hammer the throttle.

The HMC Rally isn’t about polishing or primping—it’s about the drive. It’s about that moment when you downshift into a corner, your exhaust barks, your tires bite, and you can’t help but grin like an idiot. It’s about finishing the day dirty, tired, maybe a little sunburned, but with a story you’ll tell for years.

The road’s waiting.

SIGN UP HERE!

The post Getting Ready for the Hemmings Motor Club Two-Day, Paso Robles Rally appeared first on The Online Automotive Marketplace.

Remembering Tom Matano, the Visionary Designer Who Captured Joy

The automotive world is remembering Tsutomu “Tom” Matano, the legendary designer who captured the spirit of pure driving pleasure and infused it into some of Mazda’s most iconic sports cars. His passing on September 20, 2025, at the age of 77, after a long battle with cancer, marks the end of a career defined by artistry, empathy, and an unwavering passion for design. Most famously known as the “Father of the Miata” and a key figure behind the stunning FD RX-7, Matano left an indelible mark on car enthusiasts and students of design alike.

An early life inspired by technology

Born in Nagasaki, Japan, on October 7, 1947, Matano’s passion for cars was ignited at a young age, starting with the simple, yet profound, experience of inhaling the fumes from his grandfather’s gas station. He was further fascinated by the technological details of his uncle’s Cadillac, which drove his desire to one day come to America. After briefly pursuing an engineering degree in Japan, Matano realized his true calling was design and made the journey to the United States on a freighter owned by his family.

He enrolled in the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, and soon after graduating, embarked on an international career that would take him from General Motors in Detroit and Australia to BMW in Germany. It was his move to Mazda’s North American design studio in Irvine, California, in 1983, however, that led to his most celebrated work.

A legacy of timeless sports cars

At Mazda, Matano rose to become Chief Designer and challenged his teams with an ambitious design philosophy he called “Romantic Engineering and Inspired Sensation”. This vision culminated in two of the most beloved Japanese sports cars ever produced:

The MX-5 Mazda Miata (NA)

In the mid-1980s, Matano led the team that developed a back-to-basics, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster, inspired by classic British sports cars. Tom Matano designed the first-generation (NA) and second-generation (NB) Mazda MX-5 Miatas during his time as Chief Designer at Mazda North America. He was a central figure in the design process for these iconic roadsters, which were first introduced in 1989 and continued with the second-generation model in 1998.

1990 Mazda Miata MX-5 on Hemmings Marketplace.

The resulting first-generation Miata debuted in 1989 to instant acclaim and went on to become the world’s best-selling two-seater convertible. Matano’s commitment to empathetic design—where the driver and car become one—is what made the Miata so beloved by millions.

“It was a labor of love, that’s for sure,” said Matano about the Miata during an interview in 2015. “It still is.”

“The feeling of creating a concept that I believed in so much and then sharing the same passion with Miata owners – that’s been an indescribable life experience.”

The Mazda RX-7 FD

Matano also oversaw the design of the third-generation RX-7, a car whose beautiful, timeless lines are still admired today. Drawing inspiration from a Ferrari 275 GTB kept in his studio, Matano’s team created a car with a distinct, flowing form that perfectly encapsulated Mazda’s design ethos.

1993 Mazda RX-7 on Hemmings Marketplace.

His influence extended beyond these two icons. As he moved up the ranks to head of global design for Mazda, Matano helped shape the design strategy for a wide range of vehicles, including the Mazda6 and MX-6, always pushing for simple, truthful, and beautiful design.

“Empathetic design”: A philosophy for connection

Matano’s work was guided by his unique philosophy of “empathetic design,” which emphasized creating an emotional connection between the car and its driver. He believed in designing from the “inside out,” a process that considered every detail and how it would communicate with the consumer. This approach was evident in his designs, which felt carefully crafted and intentional.

A mentor and source of inspiration

After retiring from Mazda in 2002, Matano’s passion for design never waned. He immediately became the executive director of the Academy of Art University’s School of Industrial Design in San Francisco. For over two decades, he dedicated himself to shaping the next generation of designers, teaching his “Empathetic Design Method” and urging students to think far into the future.

His influence extended beyond the classroom, and he remained deeply involved in the Miata community, earning the affectionate nickname “Miata Papa” on social media. He was a frequent sight at automotive events, where he would happily talk to fans and sign their cars. His kindness, humor, and willingness to connect with enthusiasts made him a rare and cherished personality.

A lasting impact on the car community

Tom Matano’s work went beyond sketching beautiful cars; he designed vehicles that inspired genuine affection and brought joy to their owners. The outpouring of condolences from the automotive world reflects Matano’s wide-reaching impact. Beyond his brilliant designs, he is remembered for his kindness, humor, and willingness to connect with fans and fellow enthusiasts. He leaves behind a legacy defined not only by timeless and beautiful machines, but by the enduring emotional connection they forge with drivers.

His legacy is not just the cars he helped create, but the passion he ignited in every person who ever took a Miata or an RX-7 for a drive. For enthusiasts everywhere, his mantra will continue to ring true: “Always Inspired”.

The post Remembering Tom Matano, the Visionary Designer Who Captured Joy appeared first on The Online Automotive Marketplace.

Dodge Viper: The American Supercar That Sells For Average New Car Prices

Dodge Viper Values and Sales: A Collector’s Guide to the American Icon

The Dodge Viper, a visceral American-made supercar, ceased production eight years ago, but its legacy and market appeal continue to grow among collectors. Since production ended in 2017, the Viper has transitioned from a new car with inconsistent sales to a highly sought-after collectible. Even so, some examples can still be bought for around the average price of a new car.

For reference, the average new car price is $48,841 in the United States as of July 2025. It’s important to note that the value and sales performance of the Dodge Viper are not uniform across all generations, with several factors influencing their price in the current market. Let’s dig in.

1994 Dodge Viper RT/10 for sale on Hemmings Marketplace.

What impacts the value of a Dodge Viper?

The value of a Dodge Viper is dependent on several key variables, making it crucial for potential buyers and sellers to research a specific car’s history. First, different generations and specific model years carry varying levels of desirability and price. Early first-generation Vipers (1992-1995) have a distinct, raw appeal, while the later fifth-generation models (2013-2017) offer a more refined and modern driving experience, which often commands a higher price.

Rarity and production numbers also play a factor. Limited edition models, like the ACR, ACR-X, and special championship editions, are highly prized due to their scarcity. For example, the 1998 GTS GT2 Championship Edition is exceptionally rare and can fetch high prices. The overall low production numbers for the Viper (approximately 32,000 units over 26 years) contribute to its exclusivity.

As with any collectible, low mileage and outstanding condition are major factors that drive up a Viper’s price. An exceptionally well-preserved example with low miles will command a significant premium over a higher-mileage, driver-quality car. The color of a Viper can also affect its value, with some color combinations proving rarer and more desirable than others. The addition of racing stripes, a signature Viper aesthetic, can also increase its worth. Maintaining the car’s originality is key, as extensive modifications can sometimes detract from its collector appeal.

2000 Dodge Viper Coupe for sale on Hemmings Marketplace.

Dodge Viper Average Values

When the first-generation Dodge Viper debuted, it had a starting price of roughly $52,000, which would translate to around $123,000 today when inflation is considered. The current average price for a first-generation (1992-1995) Dodge Viper in excellent condition ranges between $37,700 and nearly $74,000, depending on the model year. That’s right: one could add a Dodge Viper to their garage for around the price of today’s average new car.

Meanwhile, the second-generation (1996-2002) Dodge Viper, available in several different configurations, holds an average value of $73,000, with $51,200 being the lowest (RT/10),  the double-bubble GTS coupe averaging between $77,300 and $100,000, plus potential values of $150,000 being reserved for Special Edition models like the GT2 Commemorative Edition.

The third-generation (2003-2006) model holds steady between $53,500 (SRT-10 Roadster) and $73,000 (2006 SRT-10 Coupe). The 8.4-liter V10 powered fourth-gen (2008-2010) Viper models range from $70,000 to over $140,000 in value depending on the trim, and the fifth-gen Viper values still hold steady between $100,000 and $127,000 for the SRT/GTS and $250,000-plus for the ACR track car.

Sales and market trends for the Dodge Viper

For years, the Viper market remained relatively stagnant, with values staying in typical used-car territory. However, a significant turning point occurred around 2020, where prices began to climb sharply, especially for low-mileage, well-preserved examples. Special editions and final-generation models, such as the ACR, have seen values more than double since 2020, with some exceptional examples fetching over a quarter-million dollars at auction. This appreciation is driven by its status as a raw, analog American supercar that is no longer in production, appealing to collectors who favor its unfiltered driving experience. Even after manufacturing ceased, Dodge continued to sell new, unsold Vipers from dealer stock, with several sales occurring as recently as 2023 and 2024, highlighting the car’s enduring appeal

Average Dodge Viper prices vary widely. The average value of a Viper is not a single figure but a wide range determined by the factors above. For instance, a quick search on automotive marketplaces will reveal a vast spectrum of pricing, from more affordable early convertibles to six-figure, low-mileage final-generation models or special editions.

Many enthusiasts and collectors view the Dodge Viper as a solid investment, particularly since it is no longer in production. With a limited number of surviving Vipers and the growing appreciation for its “raw” driving experience, the car’s rarity suggests its value may continue to appreciate over time. Auction results show strong performance for specific, desirable models. Examples of low-mileage, early-build cars and later-generation ACRs have commanded impressive prices, demonstrating the collector demand for the most significant versions of the car.

1999 Dodge Viper Convertible for sale on Hemmings Marketplace.

Navigating the Viper market

For enthusiasts considering buying or selling, it is essential to perform thorough research and understand the nuances of the market. Consulting market data from valuation tools, tracking recent auction sales, and using specialized platforms for high-end vehicles can provide the most accurate pricing information. Whether for investment or for the pure driving pleasure of its V10 engine, the Dodge Viper continues to be a compelling and valuable piece of automotive history.

Learn what to look for when buying a 1992-2002 Dodge Viper.

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