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.
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.
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.”
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 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”.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Italian coachbuilder Zagato constructed only 37 examples of its design for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante, which makes this car rare enough to begin with. But it’s hard to imagine that any one of those has been more pampered than this car, which has been driven less than 400 kilometers — about 230 miles — since new, and has been given two bare-metal restorations, the first one by the house shop, Aston Martin Works.
How on earth did this come to be? The seller spells it all out in the ad for this car on the Hemmings Marketplace, but here’s a condensed version: The original owner stored the car until 2011, when he sold it to a sheikh, who commenced a complete restoration of the car by Aston Martin Works. Like the first owner, he parked the car in his collection before selling it in 2021 to its current owner, who commissioned another restoration by an Aston Martin specialist. The sheikh spent the equivalent of $280,000 on cosmetic and mechanical work, including changing the color scheme from Rolls-Royce Royal Blue paint with Magnolia upholstery to Bentley Magnolia paint with blue leather. The third owner spent nearly $50,000 on the second restoration, most of which appears to have involved returning the Volante Zagato to its original appearance.
So, after a purchase price of $171,000 ($424,000 in today’s dollars), two resales for undisclosed amounts and a further investment of $330,000 in restoration work, Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante Zagato number 30032 is looking for its next owner. Its being offered for sale by a dealer in The Netherlands, with an asking price of €299,500, or about $352,000.
From what we can tell, the more recent restoration left in place some of the mechanical changes done for the sheikh. These include the replacement of the Chrysler TorqueFlite three-speed automatic with a “custom made six-speed automatic,” the installation of six-piston AP brake calipers, an upgrade of the cooling system, and a conversion from right-hand drive to left. The eight-way Recaro seats and white-faced gauges have stayed, too, though the Ronal wheels were replaced with original wheels, wearing the last set of Aston Martin centers that were still on the shelf at the factory.
First shown in 1987, the Volante Zagato was the followup to the Vantage Zagato hardtop coupe, the coachbuilder’s modern interpretation of its legendary DB4 GT Zagato of the 1960s. Zagato’s clean and angular design rode on a shortened wheelbase and, in convertible form, sported hidden headlights. The car’s lower weight and smaller frontal area were intended to maximize performance. Designer Giuseppe Mittino, the successor to Ercole Spada at Zagato, cut nearly a foot from the length of the production V8 Vantage, but kept the same wheelbase.
Beneath the hood was a 5,341cc Tadek Marek four-cam V8 rated at 305 hp. Six cars — this was not one of them — were retrofitted with the 432-hp Vantage engine, making them the fastest convertibles of their day, capable of sub 5-second 0-60 times and a top speed in excess of 180 mph. While the coupes needed a hood bulge to clear the quartet of Weber carburetors, the convertibles featured Weber-Marelli fuel injection, allowing a flatter line.
V8 Volante Zagatos rarely come up for sale — in fact, Classic.com reports that only three have been sold at public auction over the past five years.
In its day, the V8 Zagato was prized for its performance and exclusivity, though not everyone admired the lines, with some traditionalists complaining that the car didn’t look like an Aston Martin. Time has a way of changing our perceptions, and Giuseppe Mittino’s work today is considered a classic. If you were to put this one in your garage, what would be your plan — restoration number 3 followed by years of inactivity, or adding at least a fourth digit to that odometer?
The Toyota Land Cruiser has earned a reputation for rugged dependability and adventurous spirit, but it also stands out as a compelling investment in the classic car market. These iconic off-roaders are not just for exploring the backcountry; they represent a unique blend of heritage, durability, and increasing value for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
For automotive enthusiasts and collectors, a classic Toyota Land Cruiser is more than just a vintage 4×4—it’s a legendary investment. Known for their peerless durability, timeless design, and exceptional off-road capability, models like the iconic FJ40 and the practical FJ60 have seen a steady rise in value over the years.
Unlike modern vehicles that depreciate the moment they leave the lot, these robust classics are tangible assets that continue to appreciate, especially as the supply of well-maintained and original examples dwindles.
The legendary Land Cruiser lineage
The classic Land Cruiser’s reputation is built on a foundation of reliability and toughness. Generations such as the FJ40, FJ55 (“Iron Pig”), FJ60/62, and the 80 Series each offer a unique blend of heritage and practicality that appeals to a diverse group of buyers.
FJ40 (1960–1983): The quintessential classic. This iconic workhorse, often compared to the Jeep Wrangler, is the darling of the classic 4×4 market. Pristine and professionally restored examples can fetch six-figure prices at auction.
FJ60/FJ62 (1980–1990): The first of the “modern” Land Cruisers. These models introduced more interior refinement and comfort without sacrificing off-road prowess, making them popular with enthusiasts who appreciate both vintage charm and real-world usability.
80 Series (1991–1997): Blending off-road toughness with modern comforts, the 80 Series introduced a V8 engine option and independent front suspension for improved on-road manners. This series offers a great entry point for collectors seeking a reliable classic that can also be a more comfortable daily driver.
The term “bulletproof” is often used to describe the classic Land Cruiser’s mechanicals, and for good reason. These vehicles were over-engineered by Toyota to handle the world’s most brutal conditions, from the Australian Outback to the African bush. Their simple, heavy-duty components and body-on-frame construction ensure that even high-mileage examples are known to exceed 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.
2. Increasing demand and limited supply
The market for classic SUVs, particularly vintage 4x4s, is experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by both nostalgia and a growing interest in overlanding culture. Demand consistently outpaces the supply of high-quality, unmolested examples. Unlike new vehicles, which are mass-produced, the number of classic Land Cruisers is finite, making them an increasingly rare commodity.
3. High resale value
Classic Land Cruisers have a reputation for retaining their value exceptionally well. This is particularly true for older models like the FJ40 and well-maintained 60 and 80 Series Cruisers. For many enthusiasts, a classic Land Cruiser isn’t just a car purchase; it’s a tangible asset that can appreciate over time, making it a passion project with a solid financial return.
4. The rise of restomods
For buyers who love the vintage look but desire modern performance, the “restomod” market for Land Cruisers is booming. High-end restoration shops offer comprehensive, frame-off restorations that combine the classic body with updated engines (like LS swaps), drivetrains, and modern amenities like air conditioning and upgraded interiors. These custom builds command a premium price and further fuel interest in the classic models.
While a classic Land Cruiser can be a great investment, it’s not a decision to be made lightly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Rust: The biggest enemy of any classic car is rust. Thoroughly inspect the frame and body, especially on older models, as repairs can be expensive and time-consuming.
Maintenance costs: While parts are generally available, classic cars require specialized knowledge and maintenance. A proper pre-purchase inspection from a Toyota specialist is essential to identify any potential issues.
Market volatility: The classic car market is subject to trends. While Land Cruisers have proven resilient, market values can fluctuate. It is not a guaranteed get-rich-quick scheme, but rather a long-term investment for those who appreciate the vehicle itself.
Learn more by clicking this link to our 1991-1997 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ80/FZJ80 buyers guide.
Final thoughts
A classic Toyota Land Cruiser offers a compelling blend of rugged capability, nostalgic appeal, and strong investment potential. For the discerning collector, it is a vehicle that not only promises adventure on the trail but also potential appreciation in the garage. By focusing on models like the FJ40 and 60/80 series, buyers can tap into a market with proven demand and limited supply. If you’re ready to invest in a vehicle that is built to last a lifetime, a vintage Land Cruiser is a classic choice that stands the test of time.
In this episode, the third of four in our 70th Anniversary Chevrolet Small Block series presented by Summit Racing, it’s the final day of assembly. In the below video, we take on the small block Chevy induction system as well as the finite details necessary to hit the Westech dyno. But it’s not just any intake and carb, it’s the Holley Terminator X Stealth 4150 2×4 EFI system aboard a classic Edelbrock Street Tunnel Ram intake.
The Holley Terminator X Stealth 4150 2×4 EFI system powered by a self-tuning ECU and a full complement of accessories can support up to 1,500 horsepower naturally aspirated. Too much is never enough.
The 70th Anniversary Chevrolet Small Block build presented by Summit Racing provides an abundance of displacement; 435 cubic-inches is a bit more than the original 265 cubic-inch OHV Chevrolet small block. Performance derivatives through seven decades included iconic hardware – camel-back heads, tunnel rams, dual point ignition. But this time around, all the outlandish appearance of a dual-quad tunnel ram just might prove reliable when weaved with 70 years of small-block Chevy aftermarket technology.
All apologies to Rush, but will we miss the analog kid of 1955 or will the new world mouse motor of 2025 deliver uncompromised streetability from idle to WOT? It may not be AI, but it is machine learning. Will you accept it regardless of its heritage, its appearance, its cost, and naturally-aspirated torque and horsepower potential?
In episode 3 of our Summit Racing 70th Anniversary of the small block Chevrolet, it’s time to install the induction system and EFI. However, this isn’t any EFI. To complete our fake out, we used Holley Terminator X units that keep our nostalgic look but offer modern tunability.
If I was a betting man, I’d say that you are not a One Percenter, so you could be forgiven for being astounded by the price tag for Bentley’s new Ombré by Mulliner paint finish. The first sedan to receive this treatment, a Flying Spur, debuted this past weekend at the Southampton International Boat Show in the UK.
I don’t know if it’s a girl thing (I’ll take a poll when I visit HR), but ombré (shaded in French) is the blending of one color to another. If you have seen some women’s hair (natural or, for Gen Z, unnatural colors), or that lady with the crazy nails at the Kroger register, then you’ll definitely know you’re not just some dumb guy like me. Bentley is embracing this theme and making it a special-order finish available in three different color combinations.
The ”extraordinary” new finish combines two complementary hues that transition along the sides and, if you’re taller than average, the roof too. As you can imagine, two skilled paint artisans spend nearly 60 hours to achieve the perfect color blend and finish at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England.
This special Flying Spur starts with Topaz Blue up front and ends in Windsor Blue out back, with a fade at the mid-section. It shares the same color combination with Bentley’s Continental GT Speed that was showcased at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering during Monterey Car Week. If there’s no hullabaloo with blue for you, you can always select Sunburst Gold to Orange Flame, or Tungsten to Onyx.
Let’s hope no Ombré by Mulliner Bentleys get in an accident because I imagine the vehicle will have to be flown to Crewe for repairs. But then, for the One Percent, that may not be such a big deal anyway.
