mod@tech

The planets may have aligned with the 1964 GTO, but Pontiac’s performance lineage began before the GTO with high-performance Catalinas, Bonnevilles, and Grand Prixs (with an occasional Star Chief). However, a GTO-themed full-sizer didn’t come out until 1965. Several of these models were on full display at the 2025 Muscle Cars and Corvette Nationals.

This car, of course, was another piece of Ferrari-inspired trolling (if we want to use a modern word) called the Pontiac 2+2. Initially a trim package for 1964 (which included bucket seats and a console), the 2+2 became a performance package (code W51) for the 1965 Catalina using the GTO’s formula of a standard big engine (in this case, a 421), floor-mounted three-speed manual, and special trim that distinguished it from run-of-the-mill Catalinas. Two Tri-Power options were available through 1966, the year the 2+2 became its own model. For the redesigned 1967 Pontiac, the 2+2 reverted to a performance package, now with a standard 428 four-barrel or optional 428 HO.

2+2s have been somewhat enigmatic because production numbers are not known by body style for 1965-66; thanks to the GM Heritage Center, we know that only 280 convertibles were built in 1967, though we don’t exactly know the engine distribution. Nevertheless, 2+2s can be either relatively easy to find or difficult to figure out.

At MCACN, the Pontiac 2+2 Invitational featured several of its namesake, plus a 421-powered Bonneville and Catalina Ventura (as seen above)—in the hands of the original owner, no less! And if you’re into Canadian 2+2s (a different breed, much like the ‘64), be sure to check out our coverage of Maple Leaf Muscle!

If you’ve paid attention to the collector car market, you’ve probably noticed that people are willing to throw money at certain low-mileage cars. Comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is one of those buyers. He previously showed up to Jay Leno’s garage with a sub-1,000-mile 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS; this time, he brought a 400-mile 1989 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z.

Named after the International Race of Champions, which pitted drivers from NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1, and sports car racing against each other, the Camaro IROC-Z debuted in 1985 as “The Ultimate Z28.” The range-topping performance model came equipped with ground effects, hood louvers, special badges, modified MacPherson strut front suspension (with more caster for better steering response), Delco/Bilstein shocks, and a larger-diameter rear stabilizer bar.

Iglesias’ IROC-Z comes from late in the variant’s production run, which ended with the 1990 model year. The story goes that it was originally sold by a dealership in Ohio, purchased from a collector last year, then bought by Iglesias. Like many well-heeled enthusiasts, he has a thing for buying the cars he wanted when he was a kid—and thanks to his successful stand-up career, he also has the money to afford his nostalgic hobby.

Even though Iglesias pined for this angular beast, he wasn’t aware it came in this attractive color known as Dark Red Metallic. Unlike many IROC-Zs, his is a “stripe-delete” car that lacks the door graphics, which somewhat tones down this racing-inspired machine’s appearance.

Another thing this Camaro doesn’t have? Its original Goodyear Eagle tires, which would be dangerously old by now. That’s okay because Iglesias intends to drive the newest addition to his collection. But before he can add more miles to it, Leno takes it out for a spin and ends up breaking it in with his right foot, each deep push forcing out a throaty roar from the 230-horsepower, fuel-injected 5.7-liter V8.

There are two ways of looking at putting miles on a time-capsule car like this. One is that it’s sacrilege to drive it and ruin its pristine condition. The other is that cars are meant to be enjoyed as transportation, not stationary artifacts. The only person whose opinion truly matters when it comes to this third-gen Camaro is Iglesias—it’s his car and he’s decided he’s going to drive it. It’s hard to argue with that.

The Dodge Dakota pickup has been beyond dead since the end of the 2011 model year. Even if a new version of the Dakota were out right now, it wouldn’t wear a Dodge badge because the company doesn’t build trucks since Ram was spun off as a standalone brand back in 2009. And there currently is no such thing as a Ram midsizer, but not for long—reports show that an all-new Ram Dakota is coming in 2027.

According to Motor Trend, after Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis announced the brand’s upcoming vehicles, he stated during a Q&A session, “We don’t have a volume trim $40,000 truck. The only way we’ll ever get back to the $40,000 price point [again is with a] midsize truck. And you all heard the announcement that Antonio [Filosa, Stellantis CEO] made. We’re investing $13 billion into the U.S. One of the things that we’re investing that is to bring a midsize truck. Will it be called the Dakota? I guess is the answer there … yeah.”

Like the midsize trucks from Toyota, Nissan, Chevrolet, GMC, and Jeep, the Ram Dakota will be a body-on-frame rig. Expect the choice of ICE and hybrid power plants—and don’t be surprised if a reconfigured Hurricane twin-turbo 3.0-liter I6, 2026 Cherokee’s 1.6-liter turbo I4 hybrid setup, or 2026 Grand Cherokee’s Hurricane 2.0-liter turbo I4 makes that list. We won’t be shocked if the Dakota is eventually offered in Rebel or RHO or TRX trim to compete with the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 high-performance off-roaders.

The all-new Dakota will be produced at Ram’s Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant starting in 2027, which means it may a 2028 model when it rolls into dealerships. It’s way too early for official pricing, but Car and Driver expects the Dakota to start at around $35,000 and reach as high as $48,000, depending on the trim level and options selected.

Happy New Year! This group of vehicles currently listed for sale on AutoHunter or ClassicCars.com have one thing in common. Can you tell us what it is? Can you also tell us the year, make, and model of each?

Write your answers in the Comments section below. If you give up, you can click on an image to find the answer.

Click on a photo to reveal each car

It may be 2026 now, but nothing’s changed at The ClassicCars.com Journal—Tuesday means puzzle fun! For even more fun, check out past games.

Right now on AutoHunter, you can find this restored 1973 GMC Sprint, which is equipped with a 383ci stroker V8 built by S&J Engines and a 200-4R four-speed automatic transmission. Highlights include air conditioning, power steering, power front disc brakes, headers, and Positraction. Finished in Dark Red with a black vinyl top over a reupholstered black vinyl interior, this distinctive car/truck is now offered by the selling dealer in Oregon with a build sheet and clear title.

As part of the restoration process, the body was painted Dark Red, which looks great with the black vinyl top. Exterior features include chrome bumpers, body-color mirror caps, bright trim, a hydraulic bed cover, and a tray-style bed liner. Underneath, the Flowmaster exhaust system ends in a pair of outlets behind the rear tires.

This Sprint races people and cargo to their destinations on a set of 15-inch Rally-style wheels wrapped in 225/60 front and 245/60 rear BFGoodrich Radial T/A raised-white-letter tires.

The cabin received new black vinyl on the split-bench seat, which matches the black door panels and carpeting. Interior features include a Grant wood-rimmed wheel connected to power steering, power brakes, R-134a air conditioning, and Bluetooth-compatible Kenwood AM/FM/CD/USB/AUX stereo.

Instrumentation consists of a 120-mph speedometer, fuel gauge, warning lights, and readouts for the water temperature, oil pressure, and voltage. The odometer shows 18,579 miles; the title indicates this GMC is mileage-exempt.

Not only does this Sprint have a 383ci stroker V8 that was built by S&J Engines and bored .030 over, but the engine is also equipped with a variety of upgrades. That long list includes an Edelbrock 600cfm four-barrel carburetor, Edelbrock RPM Air-Gap intake manifold, Promaxx Performance Products aluminum racing heads, a Comp Cams street-grind roller cam, Scat Pro Series I-beam connecting rods, a Scat steel crankshaft, and Patriot ceramic-coated headers. According to the included build sheet, the engine generates 400 horsepower and 400-plus lbs-ft of torque. A 200-4R four-speed automatic transmits the 383’s power to an Auburn Gear Positraction rear end with 3.42:1 gearing.

If you want to buy this 1973 GMC Sprint, move fast and bid now. The auction for it ends on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (MST).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

If you’re ready to feel like a celebrity, may we suggest car that makes a statement at any red-carpet entrance. The Pick of the Day is a 1969 Lincoln Continental limousine that was reportedly built for a high-ranking political figure and has spent its life transporting important people of society. It’s currently listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Winnipeg River East North, Manitoba, Canada.

“Spectacular condition throughout, from a private collection,” the listing begins. “Only 53,635 actual miles. Special ordered for Canadian Senator Douglas Everett, one of very few built and very few still in existence.”

The limo was originally assembled by a company called Lehmann-Peterson, currently based out of Arlington Heights, Illinois. Let’s learn a little more about L-P. The coachbuilder was founded when a race car builder and a racing enthusiast got together and decided to build a stretch limousine in the early 1960s. That creation was unveiled in 1962 at the New York Auto Show, and the partners’ first publicly sold conversion (a 36-inch stretch) sold 15 units in its first year. The momentum continued from there, and this stately black Lincoln was one of the cars born as a result of the Lehmann-Peterson business.

Exterior features include amber auxiliary lights, chrome brightwork, an antenna, body side moldings, a vinyl roof, and wide whitewall tires. Luxury features abound on the interior, of course. The upholstery is a gray patterned material, and features include wooden cabinetry, an audio system, a partition window, a perforated headliner, dome lighting, and power windows. The seating in the rear is arranged with a single face-forward bench seat and dual rear-facing jump seats. It’s a clever setup, allowing for engaging conversation among passengers about whatever important topics there were to discuss.

While not authenticated, a list has been provided that contains the names of the dignitaries and elite who have ridden in the car. Among them are Prince Charles, Mother Teresa, and Bill Cosby. It makes me wonder who was keeping track of all this – maybe there was a logbook kept by whomever was driving the Canadian senator around?

Power comes from a 462ci V8 mated to an automatic transmission. “Drives and performs very well,” the listing says. The torquey big-block was known for its smooth, luxurious power. It was rated at 340 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque – offering plenty of muscle to move a car of this Continental’s heft.

The seller says, “Offered to the most demanding collector, investor, or enthusiast who understands and appreciates the history and investment potential of this iconic American classic!”

The asking price is $59,900 or best offer.

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

America’s romance with high-performance cars may have begun with “Rocket 88” but that was a prototype to the inspiration the Beach Boys had with Chevrolet’s 409. Based on the “W-block” introduced for 1958, the 409 was a mid-year 1961 introduction that Chevrolet truly needed to compete with bigger engines from Ford, Pontiac, and Plymouth and Dodge. With only 360 horsepower, it still paled in comparison to the top Ford (a 390 with 401 horses), but which engine found itself in song? Which one developed the strong reputation on the street?

The 409 was replaced mid-year by the Mark IV 396ci big-block, so 1965 409s are quite uncommon—or in the case of the above 409/400 Biscayne, quite rare. You would think their obsolescence has created a gap in enthusiasm, but that’s simply not true because early 1960s Chevrolets continue to be one of the most popular collectibles no matter what engine.

For the 2025 Muscle Cars and Corvette Nationals, early Chevy performance fans were given a treat with a lineup that featured 409s from 1961-65. It’s easy to think that the inaugural introduction of the engine was only available on the Impala SS but, with the Biscayne two-door sedan pictured above, this clearly was not true.

If you like this, click here to view more from MCACN!

Car transport is used every day by people who need to relocate, buying vehicles online, or ship cars that should not be driven long distances. While the process looks simple from the outside, car transport pricing and logistics depend on several moving parts. Understanding how car transport works and what affects cost helps set realistic expectations before booking your car transport needs. Click to get a free quote from We Will Transport It.

What Is Car Transport?

Car transport is the process of moving a vehicle on a carrier rather than driving it. Most vehicles are shipped using open carriers, the same type of trailers used to deliver new cars to dealerships. When needing to transport your car, there are several main ways to do it. 

Common car transportation options can be:

• Open Car Transport: When the car is exposed to weather conditions and road elements during movement. It’s the most widely used and affordable option.
• Enclosed Cart Transport: When cars are shipped protected from elements and exposure. Used for classic or luxury cars, so this option is mostly on the costly side. 
• Door-to-Door: Reduces the need for extra driving
• Terminal-to-Terminal: Can be cheaper, but requires drop-off and pickup at designated locations

Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping: What’s the Difference?

Open car transport and enclosed car transport are the two most common ways to move a car. But, what’s the difference? 

• Open car shipping: Affordable and common, your car is exposed to elements but secured on an open trailer. Best shipment method for standard cars and the go-to for cheap car shipping.
• Enclosed car shipping: Provides full protection from weather, debris, and road hazards. Recommended for high-value, classic, luxury, or exotic vehicles. Costs more because the enclosed trailer has limited trailer space. 

How Vessel Transport Pricing Is Calculated

No boat transport price is ever the same. Pricing starts with the basics of distance, size and weight. 

• Smaller cars take up less space and are easier to load, while SUVs, trucks, and vans increase cost because they’re bigger in size and weight. 
• Operable vs inoperable: Operable vehicles can be driven onto the carrier, while inoperable vehicles require winches or special loading equipment. Additional equipment raises the price.
• Timing/Season: Car transport peak season usually runs through spring and early fall. During the busy season, car movement demand increases, availability tightens, meaning transport gets more expensive.  Flexible pickup dates and early booking often help customers find better rates.
• Fuel prices

Key Takeaways

Before it’s time to transport your car in, out or around the state. There are a few takeaways to keep in mind. These tips can save you money and ensure the safety of your car. Small steps, like cleaning your car or confirming details ahead of time, can make a big difference in the outcome of your vessel transport experience.  

1. Plan Ahead: Booking your car transport early can help you take advantage of more flexible pickup and delivery windows.  

2. Check Quotes: If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Compare quotes from multiple trusted  car transport carriers. Look for consistency, and prioritize companies with a strong reputation for reliability and customer service.

3. Pickup and Delivery Locations: Accessible pickup and delivery are generally easier and cheaper to service.  

4. Car Preparation: Clean your car inside and out so that before pickup,  existing scratches or dents are visible. Remove personal and loose items from inside the car and check tires and fluids. Properly preparing your car helps avoid delays.
5. Confirm details with your transportation company before pickup. Double-check about insurance coverage, delivery timing, and any special requirements because clear communication prevents surprises and guarantees a smoother experience.

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) brought to life some of Ford’s most popular performance vehicles. It was founded in 1991 and was merged into Ford Racing in 2015. One of the group’s prized creations was the Mustang SVT Cobra, and there just so happens to be one featured on AutoHunter. It is this 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Coupe listed by a dealer in Paducah, Kentucky. The auction will end on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 11:45 a.m. (MST).

Finished in Laser Red, the car is a low-miler, with only 30,818 showing on the odometer. The AutoCheck report provides good news all around. The car is free of title brands, accidents, damage, recalls, or odometer inconsistencies. According to the history, the car spent a little over the first two decades of its life in the Flagstaff, Arizona, area. It was relocated to Colorado in 2021 and Georgia the following year. Hopefully its next home is inside your garage.

The Mustang Cobra, Camaro Z28 SS, and Firebird Formula WS6 were arch rivals in the mid-1990s (as well as for a couple decades before that). Granted, the Chevy and the Pontiac were badge-engineered siblings of one another, but they were each uniquely tuned and styled. When Car and Driver’s editors got their hands on all three cars at the same time in December 1995, it made for a lively (combined-915-horsepower, in fact) comparison test.

In the end, the Mustang received high marks. The article said, “The Cobra was straight-line fast as well as smooth in corners, topping out at about 120 mph in fourth gear and generating the same quality of race-car-like engine and exhaust noise as the faster Camaro.” The car was also deemed the best daily-driver muscle car in the test. “It was the one car we would most want to drive home at the end of a long day,” the editors said.

Power for this pony car comes from a Modular 4.6-liter V8 mated to a BorgWarner T45 five-speed manual transmission and an 8.8-inch limited-slip differential. Ratings for the SVT Cobra were 305 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. According to the AutoCheck report, the car received service within the last 2,000 miles including work to the cooling system, fuel system, battery, brakes, and fluids. Modification-wise, a MagnaFlow dual exhaust system has been added, as well as a set of staggered SVE wheels and cross-drilled brake rotors. Overall, it’s a largely original muscle car with plenty of collector appeal.

Get your hands on it when the auction ends tomorrow!

The auction for this 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Coupe ends Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 11:45 a.m. (MST).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery