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1964 Pontiac Banshee Prototype XP-833 Surfaces for Sale, Again

The one-off 1964 Pontiac Banshee coupe concept is once again for sale, this time in a listing at Hemmings. The asking price is a cool $1.2 million.

The Banshee was an early attempt by General Motors to counter the Ford Mustang. Known internally as the XP-833, it was the brainchild of John Z. DeLorean, who was head of Pontiac at the time. More sports car than pony car, it featured sleek fiberglass bodywork that resembles the later C3 Chevrolet Corvette and Opel GT.

Instead of a bespoke sports-car platform, though, the Banshee borrowed mechanical hardware from the first-generation Pontiac Tempest. It used that car’s unusual rear transaxle driven by a flexible metal driveshaft often called a “rope drive” to send power from an inline-6 engine to the rear wheels.

GM nixed the Banshee after two prototypes—this silver coupe and a white convertible—were built, allegedly because executives were concerned that the Pontiac would steal sales from the Corvette. Pontiac instead got the Firebird as its Mustang fighter, sharing the GM F-Body platform with the Chevy Camaro.

Pontiac Banshee coupe

The two Banshee prototypes were hidden away until they could be purchased by GM employees. The coupe stayed with its purchaser until 2006, when it was bought by dealer Len Napoli of Milford, Connecticut, for $210,600 at a Barrett-Jackson auction. Napoli is a noted Pontiac collector whose family ran a Pontiac dealership from 1958 until GM pulled the plug on the division.

Napoli has tried to sell the Banshee coupe multiple times. It first popped up for sale in 2010, and was last listed for sale through Napoli’s Kia dealership in 2020 with a $750,000 asking price. Napoli appears to be the seller once again, as the car is still listed as being sold by a dealer in Milford, Connecticut, with the same 1,498 miles as the last time it surfaced for sale. Will it finally find a buyer this time?

HIGH-RES GALLERY: Pontiac Banshee coupe (image via Hemmings)

This article was originally published by Motor Authority, an editorial partner of ClassicCars.com

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1975 Chevrolet Laguna Type S-3

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1975 Chevrolet Chevelle Laguna Type S-3 Coupe. This Chevelle-based two-door is powered by a 350 small-block backed by a three-speed automatic transmission. Features include swivel front bucket seats, power sunroof, AM/FM/Bluetooth digital stereo, four-spoke steering wheel, and power steering and front disc brakes. Finished in blue with black vinyl interior, this Laguna comes with a clear title.

The reportedly rust-free body has been refinished in the correct code 26 Bright Blue. Features include color-keyed sport mirrors, Power Sky Roof sunroof, louvered rear-quarter windows, side impact strips, and black Laguna accent stripes. A walk-around and test drive video can be seen below.

A set of 15-inch chrome Cragar S/S wheels is wrapped in 245/60 (front) and 275/60 (rear) Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires.

The cabin is furnished with the reportedly original Black vinyl interior including the swivel front bucket seats. Features include four-spoke steering wheel, power steering, console-mounted transmission shifter, Dual AM/FM/Bluetooth stereo, and new carpeting.

The instrument panel consists of a 100-mph speedometer and fuel level gauge plus aftermarket gauges for the voltage, oil pressure, and coolant temperature. The odometer reads 41,616 miles, though the true mileage on this vehicle is unknown.

Power is provided by a 350 four-barrel backed by a three-speed automatic transmission. Engine bay features include black cast aluminum valve covers, aluminum intake manifold, chrome Edelbrock air cleaner housing, and exhaust headers. This vehicle was originally equipped with air conditioning but currently several components are not present.

This Chevrolet was factory-equipped with an independent front suspension, solid rear-drive axle, and rear stabilizer bar. Braking is provided by power front discs and rear drums.

The auction for this 2,382-mile 1975 Chevrolet Laguna Type S-3 Coupe ends Monday, April 22, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Day Two: Fantastic Friday

The auction arena was buzzing with excitement throughout the day on Friday at the 2024 Palm Beach Auction, with the arena erupting into cheers on a number of occasions as several highly anticipated vehicles had their turn on the block.

Lot 431 1981 Chevrolet Corvette Greenwood Daytona Turbo

In a diverse offering that ranged from classic SUVs and modern muscle to pickup trucks and ’50s favorites with fabulous fins, more than 200 vehicles made their way across the Barrett-Jackson block on Day 2 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. A 1981 Chevrolet Corvette Greenwood Daytona Turbo (Lot #431) took top honors for the day – and set a new world auction record – with its $247,500 sale. It was followed by a 1968 Ford Mustang Eleanor replica (Lot #416) that crossed the block for $162,800.

Lot 376 1958 Buick Special Convertible

Collections were in the spotlight on Friday, with vehicles from John Staluppi’s Cars of Dreams among bidders’ favorites. Notable sales from that collection included a 1958 Buick Special Convertible (Lot #376) with its $126,500 sale (a new world auction record) and a 1959 Chrysler Imperial Crown Convertible (Lot #400) that sold for $110,000.

Lot 400 1959 Chrysler Imperial Crown Convertible

General Motors brought several special vehicles to sell in Florida. From the Chevrolet Collection, a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette C8.R Championship Edition convertible (Lot #396.2) crossed the block for $115,500, while a 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V (Lot #396) found a new home when it sold for $159,500, along with a 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Series Blackwing (Lot #396.1) that sold for $110,000, both from GM’s Cadillac Collection.

Other highlights from the day included the sale of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette 327/365 (Lot #445.1) for $126,500, a 2023 Chevrolet Camaro Zl1 Hennessey Custom Edition “Exorcist” (Lot #411) for $116,600, a 1947 Chevrolet 3100 Custom Good Humor Ice Cream Truck (Lot #426) for $115,500, followed by a 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible (Lot #427) for $113,300. A 2023 Jeep Gladiator Custom Pickup (Lot #373) and a 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Custom Convertible (Lot #391) each brought in $110,000.

A 1950s Chris-Craft Woody Speedboat kiddie ride (Lot #7283) came out on top during the morning’s Automobilia Auction with its $27,600 sale. A circa 1948 Texaco Oil Bennett Model #756 gas pump (Lot #7282), a 1946 Mobil Oil M/S 80 gas pump (Lot #7268.3) and a 1960 Gulf Oil Tokheim Model #300 gas pump in Heritage Edition GT colors (Lot #7285), along with a 1940s-50s Cadillac Authorized Service porcelain sign with neon (Lot #7298), also caught the attention of bidders.

Top Automotive Sales of Day Two

Lot Vehicle Sale Price
431 1981 CHEVROLET CORVETTE GREENWOOD DAYTONA TURBO $247,500
416 1968 FORD MUSTANG ELEANOR REPLICA $162,800
396 2023 CADILLAC ESCALADE-V $159,500
376 1958 BUICK SPECIAL CONVERTIBLE $126,500
445.1 1965 CHEVROLET CORVETTE 327/365 $126,500
411 2023 CHEVROLET CAMARO ZL1 HENNESSEY CUSTOM EDITION “EXORCIST” $116,600
396.2 2022 CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8.R CHAMPIONSHIP EDITION CONVERTIBLE $115,500
426 1947 CHEVROLET 3100 CUSTOM GOOD HUMOR ICE CREAM TRUCK $115,500
427 1967 PONTIAC GTO CONVERTIBLE $113,300
373 2023 JEEP GLADIATOR CUSTOM PICKUP $110,000
391 1970 PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE $110,000
396.1 2023 CADILLAC CT5-V SERIES BLACKWING $110,000
400 1959 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL CROWN CONVERTIBLE $110,000
422 2022 FORD F-150 SHELBY SUPER SNAKE PICKUP $110,000
430 1970 OLDSMOBILE 442 CONVERTIBLE $110,000
440 1990 PORSCHE 911 CARRERA 4 CABRIOLET GEMBELLA $110,000

Review: 2024 Toyota Tundra Limited Hybrid CrewMax 4×4

The Toyota Tundra was Japan’s first entry in America’s full-size truck market. Though initially there were teething issues, Toyota was a quick learner and created a fine competitor in no time. For 2024, the Tundra Limited CrewMax Hybrid 4×4 continues to show that Toyota is a player worthy of consideration. Let’s explore the powertrain, interior, and exterior design, brought to life by the Tundra’s rugged Smoked Mesquite paint and black 20-inch alloy wheels. Base price starts at $60,625, or $66,978 for a fully loaded one like ours.

This 2024 Toyota Tundra bids farewell to the V8 engine, embracing a new era of performance with its 3.4L i-Force MAX Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid powertrain. Generating an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 foot-pounds of torque, this hybrid engine delivers exhilarating performance while also offering respectable fuel efficiency. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Tundra delivers seamless power delivery and a smooth driving experience across various terrains.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra offers an array of trim options, ensuring that there’s something for every driver’s preference and requirement, from the rugged TRD Pro to the luxurious Limited trim. The exterior design offers a perfect blend of ruggedness and sophistication. From the striking Smoked Mesquite paint option to the bold character lines that accentuate its muscular profile, every detail exudes confidence and style. The inclusion of 20-inch black Alloy Wheels and blacked-out accents further enhances its aggressive look.

Stepping inside the Tundra, you are greeted by a fully equipped and spacious interior consisting of several notable features. The centerpiece is a massive 14-inch infotainment system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. Additionally, the 12.3-inch Digital Gauge Cluster provides essential vehicle information at a glance, while the 12-speaker JBL sound system delivers immersive audio performance.

From Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, the Tundra offers peace of mind on every journey. Additional safety features like Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also great to have, especially if you’re towing.

Despite its size, maneuvering this truck among traffic is surprisingly effortless, thanks in part to the intuitive 360-degree camera system. The suspension provides a smooth ride on various road surfaces. Moreover, the hybrid powertrain delivers impressive acceleration and responsiveness, what you’d expect in a truck.

Watch our full video review on the ClassicCars TV YouTube channel

The 2024 Toyota Tundra Limited Hybrid CrewMax 4×4 represents a bold step forward in the evolution what we know as a truck. With its powerful i-Force MAX Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid engine, luxurious interior features, and advanced safety technologies, the Tundra offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and convenience. While the hybrid variant may come at a premium, the standard model remains a solid choice for those seeking robust towing capabilities and everyday drivability.

No Reserve: 1952 Henry J Corsair–Bodied 1987 Ford Mustang

This Corsair-style two-door sedan was built by the seller as part of a multi-year project from 2012 to 2014 using the drivetrain, suspension, and interior components of a 1987 Ford Mustang donor chassis with body panels from a 1952 Henry J. The car is finished in black and silver over black cloth and vinyl upholstery and is powered by a fuel-injected 302ci High-Output V8 paired with a four-speed AOD automatic transmission. Further equipment includes a dual exhaust system, rack-and-pinion steering, front disc brakes, and 17″ SN95 Mustang GT wheels along with air conditioning, cruise control, an aftermarket stereo, and power windows. Previously listed on BaT in February 2024, this Henry J–style custom is now offered at no reserve with an information plaque, modification photos, and a clean Arizona title in the seller’s name.

The body of the Henry J was stripped and the floor and firewall were cut out during the build. The unibody chassis of the 1987 Ford Mustang was modified to accommodate the Corsair body. Custom valances were added and sheetmetal was welded in to merge the body and chassis before a repaint in black with silver lower bodywork. The Henry J badging and door handles have been shaved, and Cobra badges have been added to the fenders. Further details include a split windshield, body-color side mirror housings, and integrated tail fins. The seller notes that clear paint-protection film has been applied to the forward-facing surfaces of the body.

Silver-finished 17″ SN95 Mustang GT wheels with Mustang center caps are mounted with 215/55 Pirelli P Zero Nero tires. A five-lug conversion has been performed, and the car is equipped with power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Stopping power is provided by front disc and rear drum brakes.

The interior from the Mustang has been retained and is accompanied by front bucket seats and a split rear bench trimmed in black cloth with color-matched vinyl bolsters. Air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows are fitted, and a Sony stereo with Bluetooth connectivity is linked with a Rockford Fosgate amplifier, subwoofer, and speakers mounted within a custom box in the rear cargo area.

The two-spoke steering wheel incorporates controls for the cruise control system and wears a Ford horn button. Instrumentation consists of a tachometer with a 6k-rpm redline along with a 140-mph speedometer, and auxiliary gauges. The five-digit odometer shows 32k chassis miles, approximately 10k of which have been added under current ownership. Total mileage is unknown.

The 302ci High-Output V8 is equipped with sequential electronic fuel injection and is fitted with a Spectre intake pipe along with shorty headers.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed AOD automatic transmission and an 8.8″ rear axle housing a limited-slip differential with 2.73:1 gears. The dual exhaust system features a crossover pipe along with Flowmaster mufflers.

Photos taken at various stages of the work are presented at the end of the gallery.

The car is titled as a 1952 Henry using the Arizona-assigned identification number AZ299198 shown above.

Hidden Horses: The Rarest Mustangs Lost in Automotive History

The Ford Mustang is no longer just a car; it’s a cultural icon recognizable worldwide and a symbol of the US car industry. It’s also a symbol of resilience and the only pony car still standing on the market. Millions of Mustang fans worldwide can be proud since their favorite car’s future is secure. Ford’s executives say there will always be a Mustang.

However, while the history of its popular models is well-known, what about forgotten cars? There are many obscure Mustangs that few remember. So let’s look back at some hidden Mustangs that are a lesser-known yet integral part of the legend.

Photo Credit: Motor 1

Mustang I

The Mustang I concept was a big deal when it was introduced in 1962 as a fully functional concept vehicle. This was the first time the name Mustang was officially used. From the start, it was clear that the public loved the name. The connection with the Wild West mythology was a great marketing gimmick (via Henry Ford).

Ford Mustang Roadster Concept Car
Photo Credit: Ford

The Mustang I was a roadster with a rear-mounted V4 engine and a wedge-shaped body made of aluminum. The original idea behind the concept was to develop a small sports car that could compete with European imports like the Triumph TR3. Still, despite the favorable reaction from the enthusiasts, Ford decided to go another way.

Source

383 Stroker-Powered ’41 Willys Coupe Replica Street Rod

This ’41 Willys coupe street rod was commissioned by the seller and assembled by Custom Motors of Jerseyville, Illinois, in 2005 utilizing a fiberglass reproduction body mounted to a custom-fabricated frame. Finished in red with flame graphics, the car is powered by a 383ci stroker V8 mated to a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission and a Ford 9” rear end with a limited-slip differential. The chassis features four-wheel disc brakes, an independent front suspension with power-assisted steering, and a four-link rear setup with Ridetech adjustable coilovers. Tan Procar seats have been fitted to the custom interior, which offers air conditioning, power windows, a B&M gear selector, Dolphin instrumentation, and a JVC head unit and CD changer. Other equipment includes a Holley 650-cfm carburetor, an Edelbrock Performer intake manifold, a PerTronix electronic ignition system, ceramic-coated exhaust headers, and staggered-width WELD Prostar 15” wheels. This Willys street rod is now offered with a clean Michigan title in the seller’s name.

The fiberglass body was sourced from Heritage Hot Rods of Macungie, Pennsylvania, and an Outlaw Performance hood was added and the rear fenders were widened by 2” before the car was finished in Viper Red, according to the seller. Flame graphics and black pinstriping were added, and the rear-hinged doors are equipped with electric poppers and emergency releases behind the rocker panels. The recessed license plate box houses a chrome frame that serves as a lift handle for the trunk lid. The headlights feature integrated turn signals and parking lights, and they were sourced from Outlaw Performance along with the chrome grille.

The car rides on a custom-fabricated frame that incorporates independent front suspension components sourced from a Chevrolet S-10. Additional features include:

  • 2”-drop front spindles with Ridetech adjustable shocks
  • Triangulated four-link rear setup with Ridetech adjustable coilovers
  • Power-assisted recirculating-ball steering
  • Four-wheel disc brakes with emergency brake
  • WELD Prostar 15×8” front and 15×12” rear wheels with faux spinners
  • 195/65 Mastercraft MC440 front tires
  • 29×12.5” Hoosier radial rear tires

The cabin features Procar bucket seats trimmed in tan with a color-coordinated headliner and door panels. Red carpets complement the body-color dashboard, and the power windows and electric windshield wipers were sourced from Specialty Power Windows. Additional appointments include a Southern Air climate control system, a B&M gear selector, polished trim, and a JVC AM/FM/cassette stereo connected to a trunk-mounted CD changer.

The split-spoke steering wheel is wrapped in tan leather and is mounted to a chrome Ididit tilting column. Dolphin instrumentation consists of a 140-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and alternator output. The six-digit odometer shows 19k miles.

The 383ci stroker V8 engine is equipped with roller rockers, finned valve covers, a PerTronix electronic ignition system, an aluminum radiator, ceramic-coated exhaust headers, and chrome accessories. Induction is through a polished Edelbrock Performer aluminum intake manifold topped with a Holley 650-cfm carburetor and a Hillborn-style air scoop.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 700R6 four-speed automatic transmission and a Ford 9” rear end with a limited-slip differential, 3.50:1 gearing, and Moser axle shafts. The air conditioning condenser is mounted behind the rear axle and is cooled by an electric puller fan.