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McPherson College Garners $1.5B Endowment

There’s a little Kansas liberal arts school in a town of 14,000 that has an endowment that could make some Silicon Valley scenesters blush. Would you believe $1.5 billion? Yes, you read that right. How does McPherson College do it?

As Hagerty tells it, a benefactor who wishes to remain anonymous promised that (s)he would donate $500 million if McPherson College could raise half that amount by June 2023. The school met the goal and, then, the Patron of the Great Unknown followed up on the promise by doubling it. That one billion, combined with McPherson College’s $250 million endowment and $342 million in fundraising, brings the total to $1,592,000 for a school with around 800 students.

Why does McPherson matter to you? It’s the only place in America were one can earn a four-year degree in automotive restoration. The program emphasizes the following:

  • Historic automotive technology
  • Automotive restoration management
  • Automotive communications
  • Automotive restoration design
  • Automotive restoration technology

Currently, the 150-odd students in the program are working on a 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S Cabriolet to make the school’s first debut at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this coming August. Donated by Pennsylvanians Richard and Mary Hoperman, the unrestored Mercedes made an appearance during Pebble Beach Car Week before arriving at its new home in Kansas for restoration. “Our Mercedes-Benz 300 S will stand as a commitment to our mission to be the center of excellence for restoration education,” says McPherson on its website.

This past Friday, McPherson College’s president announced the endowment at an event last week. “Today is historic, not just for McPherson College, but for all small liberal arts colleges in America,” says Michael Schneider. “I am incredibly grateful to our anonymous donor for giving us an unprecedented opportunity — and responsibility — to build and implement our strategic vision of becoming a destination learning community.”

Barrett-Jackson has had an association with McPherson College since 1999, establishing several scholarships including the Nellie Jackson Scholarship (in honor of the matriarch of the Barrett-Jackson organization), available to female students in McPherson’s automotive restoration program. In addition to the three scholarships, Barrett-Jackson has provided internships for both students and graduates of McPherson.

“It is important to me and the industry to give young people a chance to learn these skills,” says Craig Jackson, Barrett-Jackson chairman and CEO. “I am proud we can provide opportunities for the restoration tech program to grow and add new people to the profession.”

In-N-Out Burger Needs Your Car!

McDonald’s may be king, but In-N-Out outranks it as everyone’s favorite fast-food restaurant. However, not everyone has access to the chain, being a SoCal tradition since 1948 and more recently available to those in the Southwest, Northwest, and Rockies. In celebration of 75 years of hamburgers and more, In-N-Out is holding a 75th Anniversary Festival at the (newly christened) In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip on October 22, 2023. The day will be full of cars on display, drag racing, live music, food, and more. Best of all, the restaurant chain is looking for a few good vehicles to recruit for the show — do you have a hot rod, classic, or muscle car to bring?

Image courtesy of NHRA

There are two core aspects of the celebration: the Festival will include the car show, drag races, and other activities like carnival games, several stages featuring bands playing your favorite tunes throughout the decades, special In-N-Out displays including Cookout Trucks and other concessions, and a myriad of vendors. There will also be a Rock 2 Freedom Benefit Concert (which will require a separate ticket) to benefit the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation, a non-profit created by the burger chain that helps those who are enslaved by any substance or person to gain freedom and healing from substance abuse, and to create, educate, and assist with solutions to eliminate human trafficking. Performing on the main stage will be .48 Special (In-N-Out Burger’s family band) followed by funksters 311 and that little ol’ band from Texas, ZZ Top.

Image courtesy of NHRA

But enough about music and improving the world — you wanna hear about the car stuff, right? Purchasing a car show ticket grants you entry for one vehicle, entry to the Festival, and a commemorative gift. Purchasing an Elimination Bracket Racing ticket will grant you entry for one vehicle to race in one of five classes: Ford, GM, Mopar, Miscellaneous Muscle Cars, or NSS A/FX; the driver will also receive a ticket for entry to the Festival. Purchasing a Fun Run ticket grants the less competitive to two Fun Run races, plus one entry to the Festival. As you may have guessed, all NHRA rules will apply.

Of course, since your hot rod, classic, or muscle car is the greatest ever, you just may win an award. Space is limited, so help fill the slots with some spectacular vehicles, will ya?

The Biggest SUVS of 2023: Land Yachts That Rule The Road

Cruising down the highway like majestic land yachts, the largest SUVs on the road make a bold statement with their imposing presence. These automotive behemoths have carved a unique niche in the ever-evolving auto world. From their sheer size and commanding road manners to their luxurious amenities and cutting-edge technology, these mammoth SUVs stand apart from other automotive segments. They undoubtedly capture the attention of both drivers and onlookers. SUVs grew in popularity during the ’90s when it became fashionable to drive a large SUV like the Chevy Suburban or Ford Excursion.

In this article, we’ll delve into the realm of the largest SUVs, exploring what makes them stand out in a sea of automobiles. We’ll take a closer look at the reasons behind their immense popularity, the unique features that set them apart, and how they cater to the demands of drivers seeking both style and practicality. So fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a journey through the realm of land yachts and discover why these impressive SUVs have become the embodiment of automotive luxury and grandeur right here.

Photo Credit: Rivian

Rivian R1S: 200.8 inches

Rivian has been making waves in the auto industry for a few years now. The electric car startup has cultivated a path that’s much different than Tesla in terms of product design and focus. The Rivian pickup truck was already a trendsetting design but the R1S SUV continued the evolution. At a staggering 200.8 inches, this is one of the largest SUVs on the market, with more than enough room to move an entire family (via Rivian).

Photo Credit: Rivian

Even though the R1S has a high price tag of $70,000 to start, its 300-mile driving range is a huge plus. In addition to its high ground clearance and off-road capability, the R1S has done a great job of offering a competitive family-friendly SUV. When it comes to a big modern family hauler, the R1S is the next generation of SUVs. There aren’t a lot of fully electric models on the road yet and this one is a trendsetter.

The post The Biggest SUVS of 2023: Land Yachts That Rule The Road appeared first on Motor Junkie.

Uncharted Territory: Performance Cars Never Sold In America

America is the home of automotive culture on a global scale. That comes as no surprise as it is the country that launched the car industry. The United States also created hot rods, drive-ins, and endless stretches of highways that connect every state. Since cars are so important here, you might think that global manufacturers are eager to sell their products in the U.S.

Indeed, it’s easy to assume that American consumers have access to most of the car models produced throughout the world. But that’s not always the case. Even though consumers in the US have a great choice of performance cars, some are missing. American car customers are sometimes without the most exciting models. So we found the most interesting performance cars never released in the US. There were numerous reasons why the manufacturer decided to do so. Let’s get started here.

Photo Credit: VW

Volkswagen Scirocco R

The Scirocco is the Golf’s sportier, better-looking brother. It was built on the same platform and with the same engines but with a much sleeker, more aggressive design. The original Scirocco was introduced along with the first Golf Mk1 back in the mid-’70s and stayed in production until 1992. However, Volkswagen decided to revive the name in 2008 and presented the current generation (via Auto Express).

Photo Credit: VW

European customers can get Scirocco in a wide range of flavors, but the best one is the mighty Scirocco R. The model features all-wheel drive and 300 hp from a Golf R-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. With performance-tuned suspension and lots of power, the Scirocco R is highly fun to drive. Unfortunately, Volkswagen thought that launching Scirocco R in the USA would cannibalize the sales of the Golf GTI and Golf R so they decided to leave it in Europe.

The post Uncharted Territory: Performance Cars Never Sold In America appeared first on Motor Junkie.

355-Powered 1951 Chevrolet Styleline Special Business Coupe

This 1951 Chevrolet Styleline Special is a business coupe that was modified under previous ownership by Samson Design of Marshall, Missouri. Work included installing a 355ci V8, a TH350 three-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.55:1 limited-slip differential as well as a custom saddle vinyl interior. The body was shaved, nosed, and decked, and custom lighting was installed prior to repainting the car in brown and silver. Additional features include a four-link rear suspension, Fatman Fabrications front drop spindles, QA1 rear coilovers, four-wheel disc brakes, 18 and 20″ Billet Specialties wheels, polished copper fuel and brake lines, an Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor and intake manifold, a twin air-intake system, and a Classic Instruments multi-function gauge. The car was a Great 8 Ridler award finalist in 2011 at the Detroit, Michigan, Autorama show, and was later acquired by the selling dealer in 2023. Subsequent work consisted of replacing the battery and steering box. This modified Styleline business coupe is now offered on dealer consignment with a clean Missouri title.

The body was repainted in metallic brown with silver bumpers under prior ownership, and body modifications included lengthening the hood, decklid, and rocker panels, shaving exterior trim, windshield wipers, and door handles, and smoothing the grille and drip rails. Additional details include custom headlamps and taillamps as well as tinted windows. The paint is chipped on the right corner of the front bumper and both doors.

The 18 and 20″ Billet Specialties wheels wear custom “Business Edition” script center caps and are mounted with Toyo Proxes 4 tires measuring 225/45 up front and 245/50 out back. The car has been fitted with a Fatman Fabrications four-link rear suspension setup and front drop spindles as well as QA1 rear coilovers. Braking is handled by unassisted discs at all four corners. The frame and suspension components were smoothed and painted to match the body color. The steering box was reportedly replaced in 2023, and the selling dealer notes that there is play in the steering. The rear air springs are not functional.

The cabin features a front bench seat trimmed in saddle vinyl upholstery with custom patterned inserts joined by a matching headliner, door panels, rear cargo area, and custom-fabricated center console. Additional features include a Lokar shifter, a push-button starter, billet pedals, leather luggage straps, concealed toggle switches, power door locks, and a smoothed dashboard.

The two-spoke steering wheel has a custom horn ring and frames a Classic Instruments multi-function gauge that displays a 140-mph speedometer and readouts for fuel level, coolant temperature, battery voltage, and oil pressure. The custom gauge pod was built by Samson Designs. The odometer shows 45 miles, approximately 38 of which have been added under current ownership. True chassis mileage is unknown.

The 355ci V8 was installed under prior ownership and is said to have been built by Rick Darling Performance of Marshall, Missouri. Features include an Edelbrock EnduraShine four-barrel carburetor and intake manifold as well as an HEI-style distributor, a custom-fabricated twin air-intake system, tubular exhaust headers, and General Motors-script valve covers. Smoothed fender, radiator, and firewall panels have been installed and painted to match the body. An oil change was performed in 2023.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a TH350 three-speed automatic transmission and a 3.73:1 limited-slip differential. A fabricated stainless steel dual exhaust system has been installed.

Flathead-Powered Ford Roadster Special

This steel-bodied hot rod roadster was the subject of a custom build under current ownership by H.A.T. Racing of San Rafael, California, between 2002 and 2004. Featuring custom bodywork finished in black over gray upholstery, the car is powered by a flathead V8 that was bored and stroked to 305ci and equipped with a Navarro intake manifold, an Isky camshaft, Baron Racing Equipment cylinder heads, and triple Stromberg 97 carburetors. The custom-fabricated chassis utilizes boxed frame rails, a drilled front drop axle, front hairpin radius rods, a triangulated four-link rear suspension setup with adjustable coilovers, and a Winters Quick Change rear axle housing a 4.10:1 differential. Additional equipment includes a louvered hood, a split windshield, engine-turned interior trim, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, Stewart-Warner gauges, Wilwood front disc brakes, and Rocket Racing 16″ knock-off wheels. This Roadster Special is now offered by the seller on behalf of the current owner with records and images from the assembly process along with a California title describing the car as a 1946 Ford.

The custom-fabricated box-section frame and black-finished steel bodywork were fabricated by the late Garwood “Woody” Gilmore as part of the build completed in 2004. Equipment includes a split windshield, side mirrors, hood louvers, a polished grille insert, and a dual exhaust system quieted by Hushpower mufflers and exiting through the rear valance.

Dished 16″ Rocket Racing wheels wear knock-off covers and Excelsior Radial tires with a 6″ section width up front and 7.5″ out back. Braking is handled by Wilwood front discs and rear drums, and the fronts are hidden behind Buick-style finned drum covers. The car rides on a drilled and polished front drop axle with a transverse leaf spring and hairpin radius rods along with a rear triangulated four-link setup. QA1 double-adjustable shocks are installed up front along with adjustable coilovers out back.

Low-back bucket seats are upholstered in stone gray and complimented by a painted dashboard along with color-coordinated door panels and gray carpets. Other equipment includes a floor-mounted shifter and parking brake handle, an Ernst Benz aircraft chronometer, door panel map pockets, a high-mount rearview mirror, and a rubber floor mat in the driver’s footwell. A polished fuel tank is mounted in the trunk compartment.

The steering wheel features four engine-turned spokes and a wood-rim. An engine-turned bezel houses Stewart-Warner gauges including a 160-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary gauges. The five-digit odometer shows 4,600 miles have been added since the build was completed.

The flathead V8 reportedly utilizes a French-made block and was modified with a 3.375″ bore and 4.250″ stroke to displace 305ci before being rebuilt using the following components by Lorry Azevedo:

  • Ross pistons
  • Crower connecting rods
  • Isky camshaft
  • Triple Stromberg 97mm carburetors with chrome intake stacks
  • Barney Navarro intake manifold
  • Baron Racing Equipment cylinder heads
  • Custom-fabricated equal-length exhaust headers
  • Custom-fabricated 12-quart oil pan
  • Stainless steel coolant lines
  • Fabricated hard fuel lines

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Tremec five-speed manual transmission and a Winters Quick Change rear axle with 4.10:1 gearing. Additional underside images are provided in the gallery.

A plaque affixed to the trunk lid shows the car was built by H.A.T. Racing of San Rafael, California, with the help of Lorry Azevedo and Woody Gilmore.

Additional images showing the car during the assembly process are provided in the gallery.

The California title is marked with a “Title Only” notation.

1933 Ford Cabriolet Hot Rod

This 1933 Ford Cabriolet was modified in the late 1950s by the seller’s uncle and subsequently exhibited in the hot rod show circuit. The frame has been “Z-ed”, and the body has been channeled, modified, and refinished in red over a patterned and button-tufted red and white upholstery. Dubbed the “Lil’ Dough”roadster, the car is powered by a Chrysler 331ci FirePower Hemi V8 mated to a later-model Ford three-speed manual transmission, and additional equipment includes a white soft top, 15” steel wheels with Pontiac Chieftain covers, a drilled front drop axle, front hairpin radius rods, a four-wheel coil spring suspension, an Isky camshaft, four Stromberg 97 carburetors, and a custom-fabricated exhaust system with cutouts as well as a 1932 Ford radiator grille shell, quad headlights, bobbed front fenders, molded Model A-style rear fenders, and later-model instrumentation. The seller inherited the car from his uncle in October 2021, and the fuel pump and battery are said to have been replaced in 2022. This ’33 Ford Roadster is offered with historical images, NHRA car show awards, magazines featuring the car, related literature, and a clean Wisconsin title in the seller’s name.

The steel body has been channeled 6″ over the “Z-ed”frame and is finished in red. Additional exterior details include a white soft top, a chrome 1932 Ford radiator grille shell adorned with bright dresser-drawer knobs, quad headlights, bobbed front cycle fenders, molded Model A-style rear fenders, Buick-sourced porthole-style upper taillights, and a custom-made lower taillight panel with dresser-drawer knobs. Corrosion is present on chrome trim, and the seller notes paint flaws. Additional images showing the soft top in the raised and lowered position are provided in the gallery below.

Steel 15″ wheels wear Pontiac Chieftain-sourced covers with simulated knock-offs and are mounted with 640-15 front and 820-15 rear US Royal wide-whitewall tires. Braking is handled by drums on all four corners, and the suspension has been modified with a drilled front drop axle, front hairpin radius rods, and four-wheel coil springs.

The interior has been trimmed in two-tone red and white diamond-patterned and button-tufted Naugahyde upholstery. Interior features include a power-adjustable split bench seat, red carpets, an aftermarket shift knob, hand-crank side windows, and a bright-finished dash panel.

The power-operated trunk lid opens to expose matching upholstery and an aftermarket fuel tank.

A red-finished steering wheel features a chrome horn ring and fronts an aftermarket column-mounted tachometer and later-model instrumentation that includes a 100-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges. The five-digit odometer shows 941 miles, approximately 250 of which have been added by the seller. True mileage is unknown.

The Chrysler 331ci FirePower Hemi V8 is said to have been rebuilt and modified. Features include an Isky camshaft, four Stromberg 97 carburetors, and a custom-built exhaust system with zoomie-style cutouts. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual transmission reportedly sourced from a 1939 Ford truck. The fuel pump and battery were replaced in 2022 according to the seller.

Additional images showing the condition of the underside are included in the gallery below.

National Hot Rod Association car show awards accompany the car, as well as period images, magazines featuring the car, and other related literature.

A plate riveted to the chassis is stamped with number 512630, which is listed as the VIN on the Wisconsin title. An additional note on the title reads, “Titled in WI as: Street Modified.”

No Reserve: LT1-Powered 1940 Chevrolet Special Deluxe Convertible

This 1940 Chevrolet Special Deluxe convertible was refurbished and modified under previous ownership and acquired by the current owner in 2016. The car is finished in black over tan vinyl upholstery and powered by a 5.7-liter LT1 V8 paired with a four-speed 700R4 automatic transmission. Additional equipment includes a power-operated black soft top, custom tube bumpers, shaved door handles, 15″ chrome wheels, front disc brakes, power steering, air conditioning, power-adjustable front seats, power windows, air conditioning, and a Kenwood head unit. An MSD Optispark distributor was installed in December 2020, and service in September 2021 consisted of replacing the rear axle seals and bearings along with flushing the rear differential fluid. This modified Special Deluxe is now offered at no reserve on dealer consignment in Oregon with service records since 2014 and a clean Washington title.

The body was modified under previous ownership with molded headlights in the lower front fenders along with a shaved trunk lid and doors. It was refinished in black with purple accents, and additional equipment includes custom bumpers with integrated lights, a power-operated black soft top, a split windshield, dual side mirrors, and polished dual exhaust outlets. Paint chips are noted on the lower front panels.

Aftermarket 15″ chrome wheels are wrapped in 185/65 Steel Belted Radial front tires and 235/70 Cooper Cobra Radial G/T rear tires. The car is equipped with power steering along with aftermarket air shocks. Braking is handled by front discs and rear drums. In September 2021, the rear axle seals and bearings were replaced.

The front seats and rear bench are reupholstered in tan vinyl and are joined by matching custom door panels with debossed bowtie logos. Additional equipment includes power-adjustable front seats, lap belts, black carpeting with matching floor mats, air conditioning, power windows, and a Kenwood head unit with aftermarket speakers. Blemishes are noted on the upholstery.

A four-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel frames an aftermarket VDO 120-mph speedometer and gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage, and fuel level. The digit odometer shows 9,300 miles, and the total mileage is unknown.

The 5.7-liter LT1 V8 is equipped with chrome polished accessories and a custom air intake system. In December 2020, the Optispark distributor, ignition coil, wiring harness, mass air flow sensor, engine control module, fuel pump, and alternator were replaced along with fuel injectors, spark plugs, and wires.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission. A custom dual exhaust system has also been added, and additional photos of the underside are provided in the image gallery. The rear differential fluid was changed in September 2021.

The replacement identification tag displays X12CPC, which is listed as the VIN on the Washington title.

Factory Five Racing ’35 Hot Rod Truck

This Factory Five Racing ’35 Hot Rod Truck was built by the seller in 2022 and is powered by a 6.0-liter Chevrolet LS V8 mated to a 4L65E four-speed automatic transmission. The truck is finished in Casa Blanca white over black leather upholstery, and features include power-assisted steering, Wilwood disc brakes, four-wheel adjustable coilovers, air conditioning, electric windows, a RetroSound stereo with Bluetooth capability, LED lighting, an integrated roll cage, and staggered Factory Five Bonneville wheels. This ’35 Hot Rod Truck is now offered with a copy of the Factory Five certificate of origin, a binder of records from the build, and a Massachusetts title in the seller’s name listing the vehicle as a 2022 Replica Ford.

The Casa Blanca white-finished composite bodywork is styled after a 1935 Ford and mounted to a gray-powder-coated chassis. Features include LED headlights and taillights, a Ford-branded fixed tailgate, and a wood bed floor with faux carbon-fiber runners.

The Factory Five Racing Bonneville wheels measure 18” up front and 20” out back, and are mounted with Mickey Thompson Street Comp tires sized 245/40 and 305/35, respectively. Braking is via Wilwood four-wheel discs with remotely-adjustable bias. The truck rides on adjustable coilovers at all four corners with three-link suspension out back.

The cabin houses a split bench seat trimmed in black leather upholstery that extends to the door panels. Black carpets with Factory Five-branded mats line the floors, and amenities include air conditioning, electric windows, a RetroSound stereo with Bluetooth connectivity, power steering, an integrated roll cage, a central arm rest, and shoulder belts for both occupants.

A three-spoke steering wheel with bright accents is mounted to tilting steering column and sits ahead of a body-color dashboard. The Factory Five Racing-branded instrument cluster houses a GPS-enabled 120-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary displays. The digital odometer indicates approximately 400 miles.

The 6.0-liter LS V8 is equipped with a Holley Sniper intake manifold, and additional equipment includes an aluminum radiator with an electric fan, a PSI wiring harness, a CVF Racing serpentine belt system, Hooker exhaust manifolds, a stainless-steel exhaust system, and bright valve covers.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 4L65e four-speed automatic transmission with a Lokar shifter and a 3.55:1 differential. Additional underbody images are provided in the gallery below.

The truck is titled using the Massachusetts-assigned VIN MA34163. The title lists “Replica Vehicle” under the brands section.

Burning Rubber: Dodge Charger Hemis That Tore Up The Tracks

The Dodge Charger is one of the most well-known muscle car nameplates in the world. The current generation of the Charger has carried Dodge and Chrysler through some rough periods including the 2008 recession. One major aspect that made this nameplate so iconic is the Hemi engine under the hood. The Hemi was one of the most historic Chrysler engines in existence, rivaling anything that GM or Ford was pushing at the time. Much like GM and its LS series engines, the Hemi has been a staple of quality and performance for decades.

The Charger is more than just an average car. It’s one that consumers have resonated with for decades. With its bold-looking exterior and groundbreaking performance, the Charger was and is a muscle car legend. The original Charger model was designed to compete with the best that GM and Ford had to offer, and it also had success on the racing circuits. So we decided to showcase the Hemi-based models that tore up the race track from past to present. Buckle up.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

1966 Dodge Charger

The first generation of the Charger brought Dodge into the muscle car segment with a bang. Boasting a Hemi V8 engine, the original Charger was a unique piece of sheet metal to say the least. Its bold styling was the first thing that attracted people’s attention, and its massive amount of horsepower only added to it. The first generation had a 425 hp V8 at 5,000 rpm and 490 lb.-ft of torque (via Hemmings).

Photo Credit: Mecum

From the aggressive belt line to the exhilarating performance, the Charger was exactly what the doctor ordered. The car rivaled the best that Chrysler and GM were peddling at the time. The Street Hemi was one of the best engines that MOPAR ever designed and put into a muscle car. The Charger set the stage for the nameplate for years to come and also helped usher in the muscle car era.

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