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No Reserve: Ford Model A Coupe Hot Rod 4-Speed

This Ford Model A coupe was modified in the style of a hot rod under previous ownership and fitted with a replacement 201ci L-head inline-four following its acquisition by the seller in 2015. Additional work by the seller involved adding an FS Ignitions electronic distributor, installing a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive, and rebuilding the drum brakes and rear axle. The car is finished in black and features a louvered hood, a windshield visor, and a vinyl roof along with BLC headlights and LED turn signals and taillights. It rides on 16” steel wheels, and the suspension features a 4” drop front axle, tubular shocks, and leaf springs. Additional equipment includes an F1 steering box, a 12-volt electrical system, replacement instrumentation, and a bench seat trimmed in green upholstery. This Model A hot rod is now offered at no reserve with an aftermarket boxed frame, assorted spare parts, and an Indiana title in the name of the seller and their spouse that lists the car as a 1931 model.

The steel coupe body was repainted in black at an unknown time, and the seller states that various rear body panels were replaced in 2016. Details include a louvered hood, a tilt-out windshield, a windshield visor, a vinyl roof, a high-mount driver-side mirror, BLC headlights, and LED turn signals and taillights. Corrosion, dings, and scratches are visible around the body.

The 16” steel wheels are finished in black and wear bright trim rings and hubcaps. They are mounted with an older set of Firestone tires measuring 5.50 up front and 7.50 out back. The front suspension is a 4” drop axle with a Posies Super Slider transverse leaf spring, while the rear features an Eaton reverse-eye leaf spring. Tubular shocks are in place at the front and rear, and the seller notes that the car has an F1 steering box and several updated suspension components. Braking is handled by hydraulically actuated drums, and a dual brake master cylinder is said to be installed. The seller notes that the brakes are soft.

The bench seat was moved 4” aft and re-trimmed in green upholstery under previous ownership. Color-coordinated trim extends extends to the door and side panels. A Newport Engineering delayed wiper system with electronic controls is also said to have been installed. The seller replaced the floor panels and trunk floor as well as the wood trim on the ceiling. Corrosion is noted on the floor panels, and the left door latch sticks.

The four-spoke steering wheel sits ahead of a 1931 Ford–sourced top rail as well as a dash from a 1932 model. The latter houses replacement instrumentation including a VDO 120-mph speedometer, tachometer, and readouts for water temperature, and voltage as well as a Rex-A-Co oil pressure readout and a mechanical fuel-level gauge. The speedometer is not connected to the driveshaft, and the digital odometer indicates 30k miles. Total mileage is unknown.

The seller tells us that a replacement 201ci L-head inline-four was sourced from a 1931 Ford Victoria and installed under their ownership. A Ron Francis wiring harness and an FS Ignitions electronic distributor have been added along with a 12-volt alternator and high-spin starter. The indented firewall is finished in red, and additional components are said to include a greaseless water pump, an Aries muffler, and Float-A-Motor rear engine mounts.

Power is routed to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive that the seller states was sourced from a 1980s Ford pickup truck and installed in 2015 using a Dave Delume kit. A shortened driveshaft has been installed, and the rear axle is said to have been rebuilt in 2016 with a replacement ring and pinion, spider gears, differential carrier bearings, and axle bearings. The seller states that the left-front subrail is corroded and notes additional rust on the frame and various underside components.

Assorted spare parts will accompany the car along with the aftermarket boxed frame. Included items are listed in a seller-provided document shown in the gallery below.

The sequence ☆A2686165☆ stamped on the frame is consistent with a Ford Model A produced in 1929. The current Indiana title lists the car as a 1931 model and notes a 75k-mile odometer reading.

10 Rock-Solid Pickup Trucks You Can Count On in 2025

If you’re shopping for a truck that won’t leave you stranded, this list is for you. In 2025, pickup trucks are more advanced than ever, but not all of them are built to last. Some are flashy but fall apart fast. These ten trucks stand out for being dependable, durable, and ready to work. Whether you’re towing, hauling, or just getting through daily life, these pickups are known for their solid build and long-term reliability. Let’s take a look at the trucks that won’t let you down.

Toyota Tacoma

Edmunds

The Toyota Tacoma is a favorite for a reason—it just keeps going. Known for its tough frame and long-lasting engines, the Tacoma has built a reputation for dependability in all kinds of conditions. Whether you’re driving through the mountains or across town, it’s always ready.

Toyota Tacoma

Toyota

It’s not the biggest truck, but it gets the job done without drama. Toyota didn’t mess with what works for 2025—they just made it a little smoother and smarter. If you want a mid-size truck that’ll last you for years, the Tacoma is one you can count on every single time.

Ford F-150

Ford

The Ford F-150 is the top-selling truck in the U.S. for a reason—it works. This truck has been around for decades and keeps getting better. For 2025, it comes with strong engine options, better fuel mileage, and improved tech. But most importantly, it stays reliable.

Ford F-150

Car & Driver

It doesn’t matter if you’re hauling lumber or towing a boat, the F-150 is built to handle tough jobs without breaking down. Ford has worked out many of the kinks from earlier models, so if you’re looking for something tough, versatile, and proven, the F-150 is a smart choice that delivers every time.

Ram 1500

Car & Driver

The Ram 1500 is one of the smoothest trucks to drive, but that doesn’t mean it’s soft. Under the hood, it’s built to last. Ram’s V6 and HEMI V8 engines are known for their strength and staying power, and the 2025 model is no different. Ram also stepped up their build quality, so the cabin feels sturdy and long-lasting, not just nice.

Ram 1500

Dodge

You get comfort and capability in one tough package. For folks who want a truck that’s reliable but also comfortable on long drives, the Ram 1500 is one of the best blends of both worlds.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

GM

The Silverado 1500 is one of those trucks that gets the job done without a lot of noise. Chevy has refined the Silverado’s design over the years, and the latest model is tough, capable, and simple to maintain. Engine options are strong and reliable, including the proven 5.3L V8 and the fuel-efficient turbo-four.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

GM

Owners report high mileage with minimal issues, and Chevy has improved the interior and technology without making things overly complex. If you want a full-size truck that’s straightforward, hardworking, and built to last, the Silverado 1500 is a rock-solid option that won’t leave you hanging.

Toyota Tundra

Edmunds

The Toyota Tundra doesn’t try to be flashy—it just works. For years, it’s been one of the longest-lasting full-size trucks on the road. The 2025 version keeps that reputation going strong with a powerful twin-turbo V6 and rugged underpinnings. It’s built for hauling, towing, and hard use, and it rarely lets owners down.

Toyota Tundra

Toyota

Toyota trucks are known for low repair rates, and the Tundra is no exception. If you want a truck that can hit 300,000 miles without major issues, this is one of the safest bets. It’s simple, strong, and built to last a very long time.

Honda Ridgeline

Honda

The Honda Ridgeline isn’t your typical pickup—and that’s what makes it great. Built on a unibody platform, it rides more like an SUV, but don’t let that fool you. The 2025 Ridgeline still offers real truck capability, and it’s one of the most reliable mid-size pickups out there.

Honda Ridgeline

Honda

The 3.5L V6 is smooth and dependable, and owners often get well over 200,000 miles without major repairs. It’s perfect for people who need utility without sacrificing comfort or daily drivability. If you want a dependable truck that’s different in all the right ways, the Ridgeline is worth a serious look.

Nissan Frontier

Edmunds

The Nissan Frontier was fully redesigned recently, and the 2025 model continues that new chapter. It uses a strong 3.8L V6 with a reputation for solid performance and low upkeep. While it may not have the biggest cab or the fanciest features, what you get is a simple, durable pickup that doesn’t overcomplicate things.

Nissan Frontier

Nissan

The Frontier is great for people who want a mid-size truck that can take a beating and keep going. It’s easy to maintain, affordable to own, and built to do exactly what a truck should. If you need reliability, the Frontier brings it.

GMC Sierra 1500

GM

The GMC Sierra 1500 shares a lot with the Silverado under the skin—but it brings its own flavor to the table. Known for premium looks and features, the Sierra is still every bit as tough as its Chevy sibling. You get proven engines, a strong frame, and modern safety gear without losing dependability.

GMC Sierra 1500

GM

The 2025 version is smarter and smoother, but it keeps the same hard-working DNA. It’s a great choice for someone who wants long-term performance with a bit more style and comfort. If you want reliability with a touch of class, the Sierra delivers on both.

Ford Maverick

Ford

The Ford Maverick surprised everyone when it launched, and now it’s proven it wasn’t just a gimmick. This compact pickup is incredibly useful, great on gas, and surprisingly durable. The hybrid engine in particular has been rock-solid since day one, and the 2025 model continues that trend.

Ford Maverick

Ford

It’s a great choice for drivers who need a small, smart truck for daily use. It’s also affordable, which means it’s easy to keep on the road. If you want truck utility without the size or high costs, the Maverick is one of the best and most reliable options out there.

Chevrolet Colorado

GM

Chevy gave the Colorado a full redesign recently, and the 2025 model is better than ever. It’s a tough mid-size pickup that feels bigger than it is, thanks to strong turbocharged engines and smart design. The updated interior feels refined, but the truck itself is still built for work.

Chevrolet Colorado

GM

Whether you’re hitting trails or just running errands, the Colorado handles it well. It’s easy to live with, simple to service, and holds up under pressure. If you want a truck that’s not too big but still delivers real performance and reliability, the Colorado fits the bill perfectly.

Source

Nissan GT-R Will Not Die

You may have heard recently that Nissan has stopped taking orders for the GT-R, the two-ton supercar that was spun off from the Skyline. After over 17 years, Nissan is calling it a day for this two-ton coupe, but Nissan faithful don’t need to worry—another GT-R will be coming.

Just not yet.

The current GT-R was introduced at the end of 2007 as a 2009 model, with Americans getting its first taste of the GT-R in the summer of 2008. At the beginning, the GT-R started out with 473 horsepower and is capping its tenure at 592 horses, though there were two special-editions with more horsepower targeted to millionaires (GT-R50) or track days (NISMO Track Package). Despite being long in the tooth, the GT-R is still a spectacular supercar, somewhat how the Subaru was to Lamborghini in The Cannonball Run—clever tech over exotic.

Certainly, the world of performance cars is different today than in 2009, and GT-R sales are no longer robust. After a high of 3,158 for the initial North America debut, production settled to around 1,500 per model year until 2018, when the number cratered to 458 and has been under 300 units for the past several years.

You would think Nissan would already have a successor in place, but that’s simply not what has happened. Admittedly, Nissan isn’t in the best shape at the moment, which is a circumstance that American enthusiasts know all too well (note the shelf life of the C3 Corvette, for example).

2024 Nissan GT-R Special Editions

According to Car and Driver, the next GT-R is still three to five years into the future and, like most future-leaning cars, it is expected to use a hybrid powertrain. Will it be a conventional hybrid or of the plug-in (PHEV) variety? That has yet to be determined, but a conventional hybrid would give the next-gen GT-R the faculty to handle Nürburgring—another reason Nissan abandoned the GT-R EV after several prototypes. The ICE part of the equation should include an improved-yet-familiar turbo-six.

Despite the failure of the Nissan/Honda merger, there’s also word that the new GT-R will be part of a joint effort between the two companies, which means that a next-gen NSX may be on the horizon. Honda tends to march to the beat of its own drummer so, if true, variations between the two may be chin-scratcher.

Review: 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy AWD

This is a carryover model year for the Hyundai Santa Fe, so aside from Atlantis Blue joining the palette of available colors, it hasn’t changed significantly since 2024. You may look at the Santa Fe in this review and think it’s the exact same one we reviewed last year. After all, it’s a top-of-the-line Calligraphy model with Earthy Brass Matte paint, a Gray Nappa leather interior, and HTRAC all-wheel drive. There’s one major difference, though: what’s under the hood, which completely changes the character of the Santa Fe.

Prices for the 2025 Santa Fe Hybrid start at $37,800 for the base SEL model with front-wheel drive. With its $1,000 matte paint, $210 carpeted floor mats, and $1,415 inland freight and handling charge, our all-wheel-drive Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy review vehicle had an as-tested price of $51,675.

The Santa Fe has instant identity in any parking lot, although some passers-by may confuse the upright, two-box design for a Land Rover Defender 110. Given that those are upscale hardcore off-roaders priced from $60,800, it’s hard to imagine Santa Fe owners being angered by the mix-up. However, if they’re not used to a vehicle with matte paint, they may be unpleasantly surprised by its maintenance requirements, which prohibit automated car washes, conventional polishes and other paint care products, and wiping too hard, all of which can ruin the finish. Earthy Brass Matte is a handsome color, but it makes a sensible SUV that’s “built for your grandest adventures” a little less practical and rugged.

Most modern vehicle seats hit a certain baseline of comfort. However, there are some that are truly outstanding when it comes to making the driving experience significantly more pleasant. The Zero Gravity seats in the Nissan Altima, which can make a long road trip seem much shorter, come to mind. The heated and ventilated front seats of the Santa Fe Calligraphy are also on that level. They were absolutely pillowy. Along with the Santa Fe’s gentle suspension tuning, they made every drive better. The heated steering wheel, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual wireless phone charging pads, and heated captain’s chairs and manual sunshades in the second row only added to the serenity of the Santa Fe’s cabin.

The 2024 Santa Fe Calligraphy was a lovable vehicle for the reasons above and many more, but its engine had a major drawback. Although the turbocharged 2.5-liter I4 was powerful, its turbo lag meant always playing a game of “Hurry Up and Wait” for its 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid model combines a 1.6-liter turbo four with an electric motor and a 1.49-kW lithium-ion battery; total output is 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft. Under ideal conditions, the Hybrid Calligraphy with HTRAC is capable of returning 35 mpg in the city, 34 on the highway, and 34 combined. In our test vehicle, we averaged a significantly lower 30.5 mpg across 390.8 miles. True, the hybrid setup wasn’t as economical as it could’ve been nor as powerful as the gas-only option, but its power delivery was superior. The delay between requesting acceleration and getting it was minimal. Not only was the hybrid system much more responsive and enjoyable, but it also fit the positioning of the Calligraphy trim better. Soothing leather seats, a suede-like headliner, and a 12-inch head-up display are luxuries, but one of the greatest luxuries is not having to wait.

To learn even more about the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy AWD, watch our full video review below.

Click above to watch our full video review on YouTube!

Top 10 Thursday Sales at the Barrett-Jackson 2025 Palm Beach Auction

The Barrett-Jackson 2025 Palm Beach Auction has commenced! So many classics and collectibles on the block in the Sunshine State is a fine spring follow-up from the winter success of Scottsdale just three months ago. With Thursday, April 24, 2025, being the first of three exciting days, you’re probably interested in seeing some of the excitement from Day 1, right?

Glad you asked!    

After over 100 examples of automotive memorabilia crossing the block in the morning, it was time for the collector cars—175 of ‘em, including six charity car auctions! In fact, the top car, a 1994 Dodge Viper RT/10, raised proceeds benefiting the Florida Highway Patrol Council, which provides support to the families of troopers who lose their life or sustain life-threatening injuries in the line of duty. Note the day’s highlights below.

Lot Description Price
3000 1994 Dodge Viper RT/10 Convertible $87,000
109.2 1972 Chevrolet K20 Custom Pickup $68,200
116 1956 Chevrolet Corvette 265/245 $56,100
119 2019 Karma Revero $55,000
118 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 $55,000
111.1 1999 Ferrari 456 GTA $55,000
127 1971 Chevrolet Camaro Custom Coupe $52,800
112 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Coupe $51,700
72 1972 Chevrolet El Camino Custom Pickup $51,700
95.1 1967 Chevrolet Impala SS Convertible $50,600
110 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 Cabriolet $49,500

The Barrett-Jackson 2025 Palm Beach Auction runs through Saturday, April 26, 2025 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Want to bid on a car or just attend and watch the fireworks? Go to Barrett-Jackson.com. Can’t make it to the auction? Thanks to technology, you can watch it online at Barrett-Jackson.com! Gates open at 8 a.m. each day.

No Reserve: 355-Powered Ford T-Bucket Hot Rod

This T-bucket hot rod is said to have been built circa 1969 using a fiberglass body mounted to a custom-fabricated steel frame. The car was acquired by the seller in 2022 after several decades in storage, and a subsequent refurbishment involved rebuilding the 355ci Chevrolet V8, refinishing the body in satin black, and reupholstering the interior in gray vinyl. The engine is backed by a TH400 three-speed automatic transmission and an Oldsmobile rear end with a Mickey Thompson magnesium carrier, and it features an Isky camshaft, an Offenhauser aluminum intake manifold, triple Stromberg 97 carburetors, a Joe Hunt magneto, and Bassett headers. Highlights of the build includes a brass fuel tank, magnesium 15” front wheels, rear drum brakes, and Stewart-Warner instrumentation. This custom hot rod is now offered at no reserve with a clean California title in the seller’s name listing the car as a 1929 Ford.

The fiberglass bodywork was removed from the frame during the aforementioned refurbishment before it was repainted in satin black with multicolor flourishes. The brass fuel tank is complemented by the coordinated grille surround and mirrors, and other details include a dog-bone radiator cap, a Speedway Motors folding windshield, and lantern-style cowl lights and taillights. Pitting on the brightwork can be viewed in the gallery below.

The 355ci Chevrolet V8 was rebuilt prior to installation and features a four-bolt-main block, double-hump cylinder heads with 1.94” intake valves, an Offenhauser aluminum intake manifold, triple Stromberg 97 carburetors, and Bassett headers. The Isky RPM-300 camshaft and Joe Hunt magneto were refurbished, and a 100-amp alternator powers the 12-volt electrical system. The car also has an electric fuel pump.

Twelve-spoke magnesium 15” spindle-mount front wheels are wrapped in 145-series Firestone F-560s, while the American Racing 15” out back are mounted with 275/60 Cooper Cobra Radial G/T rubber. The car rides on a custom-fabricated steel frame, a “suicide” front setup with a 4”-drop front axle and a transverse leaf spring, a live rear axle supported by coil springs, and polished radius rods. Braking is handled by hydraulic rear drums, and the master cylinder was replaced under current ownership.

The interior is trimmed in gray vinyl with black piping, and the wood steering wheel rim was refinished. A fanny pack is mounted to the firewall below a klaxon-style horn, and a cupholder console has been added. Controls are located on the front of the seat base, and a blade-style fuse panel is concealed under the cushion along with the battery. The seller notes that the turn signal switch needs to be repaired.

A wood dashboard houses Stewart-Warner instrumentation consisting of a 160-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary gauges. The five-digit odometer shows 11k miles, approximately 1,500 of which have been added under current ownership. Total mileage is unknown.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a TH400 three-speed automatic transmission and a third member with a Mickey Thompson magnesium carrier and an Oldsmobile 3.08:1 differential. The driveshaft was replaced under current ownership.

The car is titled as a 1929 Ford using the VIN 2335421, which is stamped on the frame as well as an overlaid brass plate.

Photos taken at various stages of the refurbishment are presented in the gallery.

No Reserve: 22-Years-Owned, 383-Powered ’32 Ford Roadster Highboy

This ’32 Ford highboy was built between 2002–2003 using a steel body from Rod Bods and a boxed chassis. The car rides on a drop front end with a transverse leaf spring and radius rods, a four-link rear end, and staggered American Racing Salt Flat wheels. Power comes from a 383ci V8 equipped with AFR heads and three two-barrel carburetors, and it is linked to a 700R4 automatic and a Ford 9″ rear with a limited-slip differential and 3.70 gears. A hidden stereo is mounted under the bench seat with red upholstery, and the driver is provided a tilt column and a Lokar shifter. Owned by the builder since new, this custom-built Highboy is now offered on dealer consignment at no reserve with records and a clean Wisconsin title.

The steel body was sourced from Rod Bods and features a 2″ stretch and a stainless grille insert. The car was specified with a So-Cal windshield frame, headlights with chrome rings, and polished headlight mounts. Chrome spreader bars are fitted at both ends.

The car rides on a drop front end with a transverse leaf spring and a Panhard bar, chrome Alden shocks, and radius rods, while the triangulated four-link rear end has a stabilizer bar and adjustable coilovers. Buick drum-look finned covers are mounted over the discs up front, and a Vega steering gear was utilized.

American Racing Salt Flat wheels measure 15×6″ up front and 17×8″ out back, and they are mounted with 195/60 and 275/60 Goodyears.

A Pioneer stereo with a remote control is mounted under the bench, which is trimmed in channeled red upholstery with black piping.

A Flaming River tilt column was installed along with an engine-turned panel for the Stewart Warner gauges. The ~5k miles on the cluster represents the mileage driven over the past 22 years.

Motor Masters in Hartford, Wisconsin built the 383ci V8 in 2003. It uses a four-bolt block, a Callies crankshaft, SLP pistons, Manley connecting rods, a Crane camshaft, AFR aluminum heads, a Cloyes timing set, a Melling oil pump, a Moroso windage tray, and ARP hardware. Hedman headers were also fitted.

The engine is topped by an Edelbrock intake manifold with three Rochester carburetors and a Vertex magneto-look electronic distributor.

The four-speed automatic transmission is linked through an aluminum driveshaft to a 9″ rear end with an Auburn Gear limited-slip differential and 3.70 gears. The 3″ stainless-steel exhaust system is polished.

Build records outlining specifications are detailed in the gallery and included.

The car is titled as a 1932 Ford using VIN 1834927.

Check out the new hot rod gear at the BaT Store!

LT-1-Powered, Gasser-Style 1941 Willys Coupe 4-Speed

This 1941 Willys coupe was acquired by the currently owning family more than two decades ago, and it has been built into a gasser-style rod. It powered by a 350ci LT-1 V8 with an Offenhauser intake manifold, a Holley carburetor, finned Edelbrock valve covers, MSD ignition components, and long-tube exhaust headers, and the engine is linked to a four-speed manual transmission. The car rides on parallel leaf springs with a lifted front end, a live rear axle with ladder bars, and American Racing 15” wheels, and inside is black upholstery, red carpeting, a pistol-grip shifter, and Stewart-Warner gauges. This custom Willys is now offered on dealer consignment with extra wheels and a clean California title.

Fiberglass rear fenders were added to the steel bodywork before the car was refinished in red. The hood trim and rear bumper are debossed with red Americar logotype, and other details include a split rear window, front push bars, and a left-side mirror.

American Racing 15” wheels are wrapped in 5.60” Coker Pro-Trac fronts and 28×12.50” Mickey Thomson ET Street rear rubber. The suspension features lifted front springs and a live rear axle with ladder bars and longitudinal leaf springs. Braking is handled by four-wheel drums.

The fixed-back bucket seats are trimmed in black upholstery, and matching upholstery covers the firewall, bulkhead, and door panels. Additional appointments include a pistol-grip shifter, lap belts, and red carpets. Pitting on the interior brightwork can be viewed in the gallery.

The three-spoke steering wheel is mounted on a column dropped with support arms attached under the dashboard. A cluster is also mounted under the dashboard, with a Stewart-Warner ammeter and gauges for coolant temperature, oil pressure, and fuel level. An 8k-rpm tachometer has been mounted atop the dashboard, and the car does not have a speedometer or an odometer.

The 350ci LT-1 V8 is equipped with an Offenhauser aluminum intake manifold, a Holley carburetor, an Edelbrock air cleaner lid and valve covers, a finned oil pan, and an MSD distributor, coil, and ignition module. Long-tube headers flow into a dual exhaust system with a crossover pipe, capped cutouts, and MagnaFlow mufflers.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission.

A pair of extra wheels and tires will accompany the car.

Mercedes Goes Retro with Stronger Than the 1980s Edition G-Wagen

Did you love the looks of the 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 280 GE that we selected as our Pick of the Day back in February yet wished it had more modern technology? Well, we have great news: the Mercedes-Benz Stronger Than the 1980s Edition G-Wagen combines that cool retro style with the power and conveniences of today’s G 550 model.

If you’re thinking the vehicle you see here looks an awful lot like the G 280 SE that we highlighted, there’s a reason for that: Mercedes based the looks of the Stronger Than the 1980s Edition on the 280 SE. In fact, the Agave Green on our Pick of the Day is one of the throwback colors Mercedes offers on its heritage-inspired rig, albeit it’s now a shade from the Manufaktur line; the other colors are Cream (a color popular with people in the ’80s who drove their G-Classes in the city) and Manufaktur Colorado Beige. Keeping with the retro theme, Mercedes used Manufaktur Night Black Magno to black out the front fascia, grille, brush guard, bumpers, side sills, wheel arch flares, and mirror caps. The Manufaktur Logo Package adds black door handles with an embossed “G” logo. A set of silver 18-inch alloy wheels break up the two-tone look.

Other visual references to the era of Reagan and Thatcher include the old-school Mercedes badge on the hood and the “Mercedes-Benz” lettering on the rear door, which carries a spare tire with an edition-specific cover. Functional upgrades include mud flaps and all-terrain tires; models finished in Manufaktur Agave Green paint also come equipped with a roof rack.

Inside, the Stronger Than the 1980s Edition has black leather seats with checkerboard fabric inserts, as well as explicit branding on the passenger-side grab handle. The Schöckl mountain near Graz, Austria, where G-Classes have been tested and validated off-road since 1979, earns recognition in the form of the topography displayed on the front door sill panels and a “Schöckl Proved” badge at the base of the B-pillar.

The “1 of 460” badge on the center console not only pays homage to the first G-Class model series, W460, but it also indicates how many Stronger Than the 1980s Editions Mercedes will be built for the world market. Units from the U.S. allotment are scheduled to arrive in dealerships sometime later this year. There’s no official word on pricing yet, but we have a hunch the MSRP won’t be from the 1980s.

Do You Lose Your Privacy While Driving?

In the United States, we have a reasonable expectation of privacy. That means you can’t escape an influencer’s camera lens while in public, but you can live in your residence and let it all hang out to your heart’s content.

So, what about when you’re driving in public? A court case in Georgia may clarify what your expectations should be.

(Image courtesy of General Motors)

Currently, you can drive a modern General Motors vehicle and, while you accumulate miles, the vehicle’s computer is accumulating driving data that can be sold to another company. GM’s position is that “driving a vehicle—which necessarily involves conduct that takes place on public roads—cannot form the basis for any privacy-based claim” because “a public place is not an intrusion upon one’s privacy.”

However, the plaintiffs in the lawsuit claim they had a “reasonable expectation of privacy” regarding their driving behavior, and that GM violated the Federal Wiretap Act, the Stored Communications Act, and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Nonetheless, GM counters that “roadways are public, and these behaviors are observed by all.”

That’s definitely true and, as a result, we have had to rely on law enforcement to bear witness to infractions, with the opportunity to face our accuser. That’s been one argument against red-light or speed cameras, though laws will depend on the state—some have banned automated cameras, while others limit where the cameras can be used (for example, in Scottsdale, Arizona, cameras are allowed on municipal roads but not on state highways).

General Motors claims, “Driving data includes vehicle location, driving routes, braking events, and speed, all of which occur on ‘public thoroughfares,’” and then cites a 2015 case where, according to Motor1.com, the courts ruled that a person being surveilled by a drone did not have his/her privacy violated because the person was in public.

LexisNexis and Verisk are co-defendants in this case because GM sold them the data. Of course, they too are requesting the case be dismissed. “Plaintiffs allege that Driving Data was collected from their vehicles as they drove on public roadways,” the pair said in their filing. “Courts consistently hold there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in driving activity on public roads.”

Considering your car logs everything between Point A and Point B, and the manufacturer may give data to an organization that you may or may not deem nefarious (read: your insurance company), can you expect your rates to increase based on charges that you don’t know about and cannot fight?

Like the Luddites discovered over 200 years ago, the nature of technology will challenge our belief systems, but everything should settle appropriately.