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The year 2026 is already heating up in Arizona when it comes to Japanese import performance.

Two specialty facilities in the Phoenix area hosted get-togethers for enthusiasts over the weekend of January 10-11. The first was ScienceofSpeed, a company that has been a leader in the Acura NSX performance realm since the 1990s. The “SoS” facility in Chandler, Arizona hosts a meetup each January geared toward Honda/Acura enthusiasts. On-site were a DJ and other forms of entertainment. The annual tradition brought out an array of cars, just a few of which are highlighted below.

1994 Honda Civic del Sol S

Honda’s compact two-seater, sold from 1993 through 1997, was known for innovative packaging. It had a removable targa top that was able to stow in the trunk while still leaving room for luggage. The car used Civic underpinnings throughout, and this red-wrapped “S” came from the factory with an energetic yet economical 1.5-liter SOHC inline-four. 

1996 Honda Accord Wagon

The sixth-generation Accord station wagon was practical and well built. It came with an available manual transmission – unique for a family-hauler.  This modified black wagon was even more special for a number of reasons, most notably its right-hand-drive (Japanese Domestic Market) configuration. The current owner added window visors, a rear spoiler, and bronze-finished four-spoke wheels to cap off the sleek look.  

1998 Acura NSX-T

A two-seater with a devout enthusiast following, the first-generation NSX was sold from 1991 through 2005 in the United States and saw some enhancements along the way. Among them was the introduction of a removable targa top in 1994. This 1998 model in Monte Carlo Blue was a rare example – only 66 cars were built in that color. “NA2” (post-1997) NSXs came with a 290-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 when paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

2003 Honda S2000

The S2000 was a high-revving, rear-wheel-drive roadster sold from 1999 through 2009. It was known for its track-tuned chassis, double-wishbone suspension, and slick six-speed manual transmission (the only available transmission, by the way). This Berlina Black 2003 model came from the final year of what was known as the “AP1” series; it was powered by a 240-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four with VTEC variable valve timing.

The following day, Hasport Performance (known for the slogan “Hot-Rodding Hondas since 1998”) hosted a get-together for enthusiasts at its Phoenix headquarters. Hasport has become known for its engine-swap components like motor mounts, but the company also runs a YouTube channel called VTEC Academy with over 168,000 subscribers. Host Brian Gillespie starts some episodes out with, “Welcome to VTEC Academy. You’re about to get schooled.”

1988 Honda Prelude

Model year 1988 marked the beginning of the Prelude’s third generation (which was sold through 1991). The Prelude was a tech-forward car for its time, boasting a sleek wedge-shaped silhouette with a low hoodline and pop-up headlights. A mechanical four-wheel steering system was offered (here’s a story and video on a car that had it!). For a fun, reliable driving experience, the Prelude was tough to beat. Honda brought the Prelude back for 2026, so nostalgia is strong.

1989 Honda CRX

The CRX was a fuel-sipper with a performance pedigree. It was only a two-seater, and on paper, it didn’t have a lot of power (even top-trim Si models made only 108 horsepower), but the CRX was beloved among enthusiasts for its fun-to-drive handling. This Barbados Yellow example looked relatively unmodified and lovingly kept!

1990 Honda Civic Wagon

Sometimes called the “Wagovan,” the fourth-generation Civic wagon had a roomy cabin with fold-flat rear seats. It was a versatile car for its time, and all-wheel drive versions were available, too. This vivid example in burnt orange received light restoration (and mechanical work to the 1.5-liter SOHC inline-four) under prior ownership. It looked stunning inside and out.

1998 Acura Integra Type R

The “DC2” Integra Type R was a legendary performance coupe. We talked in recent years about how popular it has become in enthusiast circles. The key to the Type R’s success was its powertrain: Under the hood was a high-revving 1.8-liter VTEC inline-four that was rated at 195 horsepower. The car also had a limited-slip differential, a track-tuned suspension, and lightweight construction compared to the mainstream Integra.

It was fun to see people getting out and about in their classic Hondas to enjoy the weekend!

Are you a current or prior owner of any of these Hondas and Acuras of yesteryear? Let me know in the Comments section below.

Talk about being in the right place at the right time! At a Barrett-Jackson auction, we met Kash Singh, Director of Sales and Marketing for Shelby American. He literally walked us through the history of the Shelby GT350, which has raised the performance of the Ford Mustang for more than 60 years. The first stop on the tour was a very special 1965 GT350 (which was converted into an R model with Shelby parts) owned by the Jackson family. The next GT350 was a 1-of-10 factory-supercharged 1967 model that belongs to Barrett-Jackson president Steve Davis. Just a few steps away was a 2011 supercharged GT350 created in the second era of Shelby Mustangs. Further down the row, Kash gave us an insider’s perspective on the S550 version of the GT350, which dropped the supercharger and used a high-revving, naturally aspirated Voodoo 5.2-liter V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft that gave it an unforgettable sound. Our final stop on the tour was the 2025 GT350 equipped with a supercharger that boosts the Coyote 5.0-liter V8’s output to a staggering 810 horsepower.

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Barrett-Jackson announced today that the company will return to Las Vegas for a 2026 Fall Auction at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), Sept. 10-12. Barrett-Jackson held its first Las Vegas event in the fall of 2008 and held auctions through June 2023. Over the years in Las Vegas, Barrett-Jackson has fueled the passion for the hobby with an exciting automotive lifestyle event that draws collector car enthusiasts from around the world.

“Las Vegas is one of the most popular destinations in the world, making it the perfect backdrop for this year’s Fall Auction,” said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “From the Formula One weekend and the NASCAR race to the NHRA Nationals, IndyCar race and the SEMA Show, Las Vegas fully embraces the automotive lifestyle. In response to high customer demand, we are thrilled to return to the Las Vegas Convention Center. We have secured prime dates for the auction and are proud to announce Fontainebleau Las Vegas as our official host hotel. Located directly across from the auction site, the Fontainebleau offers unmatched luxury and convenience for all our collector car enthusiasts. We look forward to a spectacular return to the city this fall.”

The Barrett-Jackson 2026 Las Vegas Auction returns to the state-of-the-art Las Vegas Convention Center’s West Hall, which offers ample space for auction guests. The event will entertain visitors with hundreds of collectible vehicles and authentic automobilia items, an Exhibitor Marketplace and a variety of dining options. Barrett-Jackson’s host hotel is Fontainebleau Las Vegas, located adjacent to the acclaimed LVCC West Hall expansion and just a short walk away. Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a 67-story, vertically integrated luxury resort that brings a legacy of timeless elegance and unparalleled service to the Strip. It is the only resort and casino in Nevada to receive the coveted One Key designation from the 2025 Michelin Guide, recognizing its bold design and award-winning collection of luxury amenities and accommodations.

“We’re thrilled to bring our Fall Auction back to the LVCC West Hall in September,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Our deep connection with Las Vegas spans nearly two decades, beginning with our first auction there in the fall of 2008. Over the years, we’ve celebrated incredible auction moments in ‘The Entertainment Capital of the World’ and helped raise $1 million for local first responders following the 2017 Las Vegas tragedy. This year’s Fall Auction in Las Vegas will be incredible, and one you won’t want to miss.”

Barrett-Jackson’s 2026 Collector Car Auction schedule includes the Scottsdale Auction, January 17-25 at WestWorld of Scottsdale; the Palm Beach Auction, April 16-18 at the South Florida Fairgrounds; the Columbus Auction, June 25-27 at the Ohio Expo & State Fairgrounds; and the Las Vegas Auction, Sept. 10-12 in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.  For event details and ticket information, visit www.Barrett-Jackson.com.

Join Barrett-Jackson’s online conversation with #BarrettJackson and #BJAC on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

A fledgling muscle car fan will soon discover a convertible powered by the 426 Hemi is about as good as it gets—at least, that was my script in the 1980s. I was into GTOs and 4-4-2s, but I soon learned that there was something to which all others were compared. Perhaps the E-body ‘Cuda and Challenger R/T ragtops were/are considered the ultimate, but I leaned into mid-size cars more (and still do). At the 2025 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, these cars had an opportunity to crawl out of the shadows and give us a chance to drool over many Hemi Plymouth and Dodge convertibles.

The “Street Hemi” debuted for 1966, but it did not have a place in an “image” model aside from the Charger. That was rectified for 1967 with the Plymouth GTX and Dodge Coronet R/T. For 1968, that was expanded to the Road Runner and Super Bee, plus the redesigned Charger. Plymouth expanded the availability of the Road Runner for 1969, while Dodge introduced two NASCAR homologation specials. For 1970, the E-bodies were introduced, plus the Road Runner scored its own version for NASCAR. In the Hemi’s swan song for 1971, there were no B-body convertibles produced.

All Hemi convertibles are rare—sometimes rarer than the hallowed E-bodies. Which one of these that appeared at MCACN is your favorite?

Please note that, due to a certain quirk with surviving production records, most Mopar production numbers count for U.S. production and not total production (including Canadian and Export shipments). Whenever possible, we will add what is known beyond the U.S.

The Coronet was redesigned for 1968. Nine were built, plus two more for Canada. Yes, that black car has red “Bumblebee” stripes, while the blue one has a pinstripe.

Four blue 1968 Hemi GTXs were present, all with black, white, or blue stripes. Note the extra-cost hood black-out on the middle car.

We’re in an age in which automakers have made off-road versions of their iconic sports cars. Remember the lifted Porsche 911 Dakar? Have you passed a Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato covered in dirt? Dodge didn’t do that with its Viper RT/10 back in the ’90s, but automotive engineer Matt Brown (aka SuperfastMatt on YouTube) gave his V10-powered roadster a very 21st-century overhaul and took it through the California desert.

Turning a powerful rear-wheel-drive car that was meant to go fast only on pavement into an off-roader took some . . . adjustments. For starters, Brown tilted the 8.0-liter V10 and six-speed manual gearbox down to better line up with the driveshaft. To ensure he didn’t get stranded on the trail from Jawbone Canyon to the southern end of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Brown installed a spare tire carrier at the rear.

As you can imagine, those fundamental changes have caused several issues, including leaks and rattles. The Viper’s massive hood made plenty of its own unpleasant noises over the rough terrain. (And the addition of a cup holder and speakers for a Walmart-sourced head unit after Brown’s adventure led to the interior being gutted.)

Brown’s journey wasn’t all bad, though. The fact that his radically modified Viper got him to his destination at all is one hell of an accomplishment. To see a first-gen Viper go against against its own nature and Mother Nature, watch the video below.

Right now on AutoHunter, you can find this 1973 Ford Mustang Convertible, which reportedly has its numbers-matching 302ci V8 and original SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. Finished in Ivy Glow and white stripes, and equipped with a white power convertible top over an Avocado knitted vinyl interior, this drop-top pony car is now offered by the selling dealer in Oregon with a Marti Report and a clear title, which is currently in transit.

The body wears a combination of Ivy Glow green paint and dual white stripes that shoot down the middle of the hood and trunk lid. Exterior features include a body-color urethane front bumper, bright side trim, dual mirrors, chrome rear bumper, and single exhaust outlet. A power-operated white convertible top covers the passenger compartment.

Instead of shoes, this horse wears a set of 15-inch Magnum 500 wheels wrapped in 235/60 Goodyear Eagle GTII raised-white-letter radial tires.

If this car’s green paint caught your eye, we have great news: the knitted vinyl upholstery is green, too—Avacado green, to be exact. Cabin features include manual steering, front bucket seats, factory air conditioning and AM radio, and automatic shifter with consolette.

Instrumentation consists of a 120-mph speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights for the oil pressure, temperature, alternator, and brakes. The odometer shows 78,806 miles, which is this car’s true mileage, according to the selling dealer.

Under the hood is the reportedly numbers-matching 302ci V8, which is paired with a two-barrel carburetor. The reportedly original SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission sends the engine’s power to a 3.00:1 rear end. New shocks and manual drum brakes keep this pony car from running wild.

This 1973 Ford Mustang Convertible is great in green, but green with envy is a bad look, so don’t let somebody else win it. Place your bids before the auction ends on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (MST).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

The word “strato” means layer. Perhaps you’ve heard of stratus clouds or a newfangled drink at Starbucks? Then you may be more familiar with the word than you think. If you’re Canadian, you probably had a head start thanks to a particular Pontiac model that is our Pick of the Day. This 1964 Pontiac Strato-Chief two-door sedan is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Elkhorn, Nebraska.

Truth be told, the Strato-Chief name likely had nothing to do with layers, so what did it stand for? Considering it has a root in the word “stratosphere,” perhaps it was related to aviation and jet-age language? Speed and futuristic design? Certainly, that’s true for Pontiac’s all-new V8 that appeared for 1955. Called the Strato-Streak, the 287ci V8 was claimed to be “ready to take you wherever you may wish in a quick, sure flow of seemingly effortless power. In turn, Canadian Pontiac engines were called the Strato-Six and Strato-Flash V8, but they both were Chevrolet designs, as was the Canadian practice at the time.

In case you need to revisit the story of Canadian Pontiacs and why they exist, it all comes down to population, median income, and tariffs. In the 1960s, Canada was much more sparsely populated, and the buying power of Canadian citizens was weaker than it is today. Canada’s automobile industry and dealer network reflected this. Dealerships often combined several brands to serve a particular region, such as Pontiacs being sold alongside Buicks and GMCs. For economies of scale in Canadian plants, Canadian Pontiacs used Chevrolet running gear and, hence, were not the “Wide-Track” Pontiacs many grew to love. Tariffs were a way to protect the interests of the Canadian market, but thanks to the 1965 Auto Pact trade agreement, that need was no longer as strong.

The Strato-Chief was introduced in 1958 as the replacement for the Pathfinder Deluxe (the cheapie Pathfinder continued). It looked like a Chieftain from the outside but with a 122-inch wheelbase, while the Strato-Chief utilized Chevrolet’s 117.5-inch wheelbase and was more akin to the Biscayne. Power came from a “Strato” Six, a “Strato-Flash” V8 (283), “Super Strato-Flash” V8 (283 four-barrel), “Power Chief” V8 (fuel-injected 283), “Astro-Flame” V8 (348), or “Super Astro-Flame” V8 (348 with triple two-barrels). For 1959, the Pathfinder was dropped, and the Parisienne pushed both the Laurentian and the Strato-Chief down a notch. This structure continued through 1970.

This Biscayne-with-Pontiac-styling was an unusual hybrid that makes Canadians giddy and sometimes receives accusations from Stateside enthusiasts that it’s not a “real Pontiac,” but let’s agree to disagree as we dig in on this 1964 Pontiac Strato-Chief two-door sedan powered by a 425-horsepower 409 with dual quads. Finished in blue over blue vinyl upholstery, this is a Canadian Q-ship if there ever was one. Inside, you’ll find a four-speed shifter, heater, factory tachometer, Stewart Warner auxiliary gauges, and no radio. Inside the engine compartment, you’ll find a dual-snorkel air cleaner, chrome valve covers, and tubular exhaust headers that feed into a dual exhaust system. Body-color steel wheels wear chrome hubcaps and are mounted with 14-inch BFGoodrich Silvertown tires.

Tariffs are currently in the news, but for a different reason. If you’re American and you dig unusual machinery, then you won’t need to worry about tariffs since this 1964 Pontiac Strato-Chief currently resides in the Midwest. If you’re Canadian, please review the latest tariff news because we’d hate for you to spend more than the $47,900 (OBO) asking price.

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