Pontiac was at the top of its game in 1962. Attractive styling contrasted sharply with cross-town rivals Plymouth and Dodge. Tri-Power performance had strong street cred. The Tempest featured engineering that bucked typical Detroit convention. The NASCAR Grand National point-leader was who? And, incredibly, Pontiac outsold Plymouth to achieve the number-three spot in sales.
The cars that gave Pontiac wins both in NASCAR and dragstrips were forced to be discontinued early in 1963 when General Motors reiterated its no-racing stance with the Automobile Manufacturers Association. That left cars like this 421 Super Duty-powered 1962 Pontiac Catalina a footnote in American automotive history.
Oh, but what a footprint it left! The 421 Super Duty featured a single four-barrel or dual-quads, four-bolt mains, heat-treated camshaft, factory long-branch manifolds, nifty exhaust dumps, and more. Only 179 were built, of which 155 were 421 Catalinas like Henry Hart’s (the balance was a handful of Grand Prixs and 389 SD Catalinas). But don’t think they all were identical batch-builds because Henry’s is equipped with the very stylish Ventura Custom Interior. Other distinctive features include aluminum hood and fenders, and Hurst shifter (a factory first!) paired to the Borg-Warner T10.
We told you back in August that a 392 Hemi-powered Jeep Gladiator will be coming. In the meantime, the midsize pickup has received several updates for the 2026 model year—two new colors and new hinges for easier door removal. Also new is a Willys ’41 “buzz model” that honors Jeep‘s military history, albeit from a different decade.
Kaiser Jeep M715 (Photo courtesy of Jeep)
According to Stellantis, “Inspired by the original Jeep Kaiser M715 military truck, the Gladiator Willys ‘41 … channels the Jeep brand’s military heritage with bold, utilitarian design and off-road-ready features.” Think Vietnam, not World War II. The 1-1/4-ton M715 was produced by Kaiser Jeep from 1967-69 as a replacement for the Dodge M37 series 3/4-ton vehicles used by the military since 1951. Adapted from the Gladiator civilian trucks, the M715 featured similar body parts, albeit with some modifications, as well a purpose-built cargo box. Power from the Tornado I6 reached the battlefield through a T-98 four-speed manual transmission, NP200 dual-range transfer case, Dana 60 front axle, and Dana 70 full-floating rear end.
Photo courtesy of Jeep
Like all 2026 Gladiators, the Willys ’41 is powered by a Pentastar 3.6-liter V6, which is exclusively connected to an eight-speed automatic. Special equipment is located all over and inside. Up front, there’s a Mopar triple-hoop grille guard (which brings the 2024 Wrangler Rubicon 392 not-so-Final Edition to mind). Both ends of the truck feature an upgraded steel bumper. The Mohave hood’s scoop is purely cosmetic, but the heritage-inspired decals are real. In the cabin, the seats have Willys ‘41 tan inserts and the mid-bolster is wrapped in Mantis Green cloth. Perhaps the coolest add-on is the set of slotted 17-inch wheels finished in Olive Drab; the mud-terrain tires are a nice bonus.
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Willys ’41 is now available to order. Prices start at $47,840, but that figure doesn’t include the $1,995 destination charge.
The classic cut-door British roadster introduced the U.S. to the fun of sports cars. The wind in your hair, reasonable speed, good looks, telepathic steering, and great handling for the era, all wrapped in a two-door open-car package created a new category of automobile. Cars like the MG T Series, Triumph TR2/3, and Austin-Healey 100/3000 defined what a sports car was for over a decade. If you have always wanted to own the very definition of a classic British roadster, then look no further than what, to me, is the pinnacle of classic sports car design: the Morgan 4/4 and Plus 4. The AutoHunter Spotlight for the day is this stunning 1957 Morgan 4/4 Roadster. It is being sold by a dealer in Shawnee, Oklahoma, with the auction ending on Tuesday, December 1, 2025, at 3:15 p.m. (MST).
Introduced in 1936 and somehow continuing in production until 2018, the 4/4 is the quintessential British sports car and, for their fans, the Morgan has no equal. Morgan 4s have won races (including Le Mans), have delivered RAF airman to their Spitfires during the Battle of Britain, have been owned by both the famous and the not-so-famous, and have always delivered a traditional British driving experience. By modern standards a Morgan, especially a 4/4, is not that fast, but it sure feels fast due to the seating position that puts you only inches above the pavement and doors cut so low you can touch the road from the driver’s seat.
The other thing I love about the Morgan is the brand’s rich history. These cars have always been entirely built by hand in the same factory, and today the company remains the last of the independent automakers. Driving a Morgan is like nothing else in the world, and owning a Morgan is an immersive way of experiencing the sports car world of the 1930s-50s.
This Morgan 4/4 is powered by a correct Ford 1172cc inline-four mated to a three-speed manual transmission. Something interesting not everyone knows is that Morgan never made their own engine. To this day, the company relies on engines from other manufacturers; the Ford side-valve inline-four was used in the 4/4 for decades.
This Morgan 4/4 Roadster is painted in the iconic combination of British Racing Green with a black soft-top over a tan leather interior. It is offered by the selling dealer with restoration and service receipts, along with a clear title.
The seller states that this Morgan underwent a full nut-and-bolt body-off restoration by The Vintage Connection in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. They add that the cost for the restoration was $150,000, which is backed up by the complete restoration receipts. That may seem like a lot of money, but a proper restoration is expensive, and this is the going rate for a true restoration on just about any car. Judging from the photos, this truly looks to be a top-tier restoration.
Also keep in mind that the Morgan is a complicated car to restore. The frame for the body panels is made of ash wood, which over time can rot if not properly preserved. In the era in which this car was built, the wood was not as well treated, so may be suspect and in need of replacement on any Morgan from the 1930-70s. Happily, Morgan Motors offers complete kits for the wood, and it is now treated to make it last for much longer than it did in the past. That being said, someone still needs to put the pieces together, as you can see in the vintage factory photos below.
The interior of this Morgan 4/4 looks to be as good as the exterior. The seats are trimmed in the proper tan leather, the steering wheel is a correct four-spoke Brooklands item, and even the correct Morgan gauges and the wood dash look to be in like-new condition. If you want a good classic Morgan, this definitely looks like one.
Under the bonnet is the correct Ford-sourced side-valve 1172cc inline-four engine. It is fed by a correct single-barrel Solex carburetor with a correct chrome air cleaner. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a correct three-speed manual transmission. Both the engine compartment and underside of look to be as nice as the rest of the car. This Morgan is not only good enough for weekend drives or weeklong driving adventures on rallies, it is also in true show-worthy condition.
No, a classic Morgan 4/4 is in no way a sensible or even a logical car. It offers only rudimentary relief from inclement weather, has a very stiff sliding pillar front suspension, and rides a bit hard on the road. What it does offer is a driving experience that is the very essence of a British roadster. Sure, there are MGs and Triumphs you could buy – but a Morgan is something special and completely in another league. Morgan owners are also among the nicest and most welcoming classic car communities out there and their events are some of the most fun you will ever attend. A Morgan is effectively a four-wheeled time machine back to the classic era of sports cars and is without equal if you have always wanted to experience a true British roadster. Do be aware, though, that you will get lots of questions from people whenever you stop for fuel, as Morgans attract a lot of attention.
If you are interested in this car, I would recommend logging on to AutoHunter and bidding soon. Examples of a Morgan 4/4 this nice are becoming harder and harder to find. If you can buy one that has been restored to this level, you are always better off than you would be buying a decent driver and trying to make it this nice (remember that $150,000 restoration cost).
If you are interested in this truly exceptional 1957 Morgan 4/4, place your bid now, as the auction for this car ends on December 1, 2025, at 3:15 p.m. (MST).
Designed and engineered by Dodge’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) performance division, the Challenger SRT8 represented a modern interpretation of a classic icon. The Pick of the Day is a 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in South Bend, Indiana.
“Over 700 horsepower on tap, courtesy of a Kenne Bell mammoth 2.8-liter supercharger,” the listing says. “Reliable power and very drivable car on the streets!”
The Challenger name has been used off and on in the Chrysler world since 1959, but the original Challenger that many enthusiasts recall first made waves in the marketplace in the fall of 1969 for the 1970 model year. That car took a calculated swing at the popular Ford Mustang, but it was touted for its unique engineering: “It borrowed from no one – completely new from the wide stance up. This pony has a mean streak,” ads said.
A second iteration of the Challenger was sold from 1978 through 1983 as a rebadged version (or “captive import”) of the Mitsubishi Galant. And finally, in late 2005, Dodge unveiled spy photos of what would later become the newest Challenger – launching in production form for 2008. The newest Challenger carried the spirit (and the styling) of the old, and the SRT8 variant ranked at the high end of the model lineup. It was known for its HEMI 6.1-liter V8 that was rated from the factory at 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. For some enthusiasts, though, 425 horsepower just wouldn’t cut it.
This HEMI Orange Pearl SRT8 gives us a glimpse of what can happen when the right modifications are added to an already capable platform. Aside from the supercharger, the car has also been modified with a BC Racing coilover suspension, an upgraded Bluetooth-enabled sound system, a front strut tower brace, and a traction control kill switch.
Worth calling out is that while model year 2009 marked the first availability for a TREMEC six-speed manual transmission, this car is equipped with the five-speed automatic. It is described by the seller as being fully loaded, although it does not have a sunroof. Finally, despite being 16 years old, the car has only 44,500 miles on the odometer.
“Fantastic driving SRT8 that can rip up the streets, handles very well, and puts down the power predictably,” the listing concludes. This SRT8 is an eye-catching, modern muscle car that is bound to deliver plenty of grins per mile to whoever gets behind the wheel.
More power! The late 1960s marked a heyday for the muscle car era as domestic automakers continually one-upped each other by amplifying performance of their sports cars. High-displacement V8 motors and limited-slip rear ends were giving rise to a growing drag-racing scene.
Yet, in April 1968, Motor Trend magazine ran a photo on its cover of a quicky two-door electric car and surmised about 1969 becoming the “Year of the Electrics.” As it turns out, not many people paid attention to electric cars in 1969… or 1979… or 1989. In fact, even as of 2025, electric vehicle sales only account for about 10 percent of new cars sales according to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers. But that doesn’t mean the EV market share isn’t growing, because it is. Sales in Q3 2025 grew by about a third year-over-year, so the momentum is there.
In the story about the “future” electric cars of 1969, Bob Fendell wrote, “The breakthrough to a quiet, smogless car is nearing. When it comes, your life on wheels will change.” He went on to say, “Service stations would merely add plug-in or quick recharge facilities impractical at home and would learn new repair skills.” As it turns out, Fendell was right about charging stations.
Quotable Lines
Thumbing further through the issue of Motor Trend, there were a few more interesting takeaways. Following were some quotes that stood out to me from the Inside Detroit section.
“Anti-smog regulations proposed for 1970 by the federal government may be harder to meet than the industry expected.”
“The California Planning and Conservation League, a lobbying group for conservationists, has recommended and will probably ask the 1968 California legislature to ban the sale of smog producing motor vehicles, with a deadline set for 1980.”
“Chrysler made a running change in its 1968 intermediates to make the ash trays usable. Previously, the ash trays on the middle size Dodge and Plymouth cars were virtually useless, even for those 100mm cigarettes.”
“The auto companies may wind up in trouble with the government again because of the way they are pushing high-performance cars for street racing.”
“Officials of the New Jersey and Ohio highway departments say surveys have shown that red, yellow, or green colored pavement at intersections and freeway ramps can help daytime drivers make crucial decisions faster.”
“First it was disappearing headlights, then concealed windshield wipers. The next to go out of sight may be your car’s antenna.”
Marketing Materials
The advertisements in old magazines are just as entertaining as the articles themselves. These were a few that caught my eye.
AMC AMX: Limited to 10,000 units per year
Pontiac GTO: Including pictures of GTO models from the four prior years
Chevy II: Touting the 295hp 350ci V8
Oldsmobile 4-4-2: With a 400ci “Rocket” V8
“Awhile-a-Wipe” (interval windshield wipers) and Sequential Turn Signals from Tibbets Electronics. These innovations (priced at $12.95 and $19.95 respectively) were products designed to help buyers add features to their cars.
Win a Car!
Lastly, car giveaways were apparently a big thing in the 1960s. You might recall a story I wrote earlier this year about a “Super Sport Sweepstakes” promotion that took place at Chevrolet dealers around the nation. As it turns out, the Mohawk Rubber Company promoted its “GT500 Sweepstakes,” wherein a grand-prize winner could drive away in a Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500.
Another example was a small advertisement previewing the giveaway of a 1968 Pontiac GTO. It would be great if we could track down the locations of those “prize cars” today. Also, I wish free cars were more of a thing in 2025. I guess there’s always Vegas, or The Price Is Right.
As Bob Fendel concluded in his story about electric cars, “Stick around… cars are becoming more exciting than ever.” Do you think that statement still holds true in modern day?
In Monterey, we came across something historic: a 1968 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/2 “Daytona,” chassis 015 – one of the most important prototype race cars ever to wear the Alfa badge. In this video, we walk around it, listen to its high-revving 2.5-liter V8, and break down what makes the 2.5-liter cars so rare. We follow its story from Daytona, the Targa Florio, and the Nürburgring to an extended racing stint in Angola, years hidden away during a civil war, a restoration by a former Autodelta mechanic, and appearances at the Le Mans Classic and Monterey Historics (now known as the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion). You will hear about the big-money engine rebuilds, why this specific T33 matters so much to Alfa Romeo fans and prototype nerds, and what it is like to see it up-close.
This video is sponsored by our friends at Borro. For the trusted source in liquidity when you need it most, call Borro today at (720) 458-6788 or learn more at borro.com.
Currently listed on AutoHunter is this restored 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Gran Coupe. The Gran Coupe was the upscale Barracuda and featured a higher level of appointments and trim from the base Barracuda and the performance-oriented ‘Cuda. This one is powered by a 360 small-block with a four-speed manual. Other features include strobe stripe, rear spoiler, road lights, blacked-out scooped hood, and more. Painted white with black vinyl interior, this Mopar pony car is offered by the selling dealer with a clear title.
The white exterior is complemented by black strobe stripes, a mid-year Barracuda option that’s not often seen. Other exterior features include a blacked-out, non-functional scooped hood, ‘Cuda rocker panels, AAR rear spoiler, driving lights, rear valence with twin pipes, and dual chrome side mirrors. A set of 15-inch Rallye wheels are wrapped in staggered-width Mickey Thompson Sportsman S/T radial tires—235/60 up front, 255/60 out back.
The black vinyl interior features front bucket seats, special Gran Coupe door panels, center console housing a Hurst Pistol Grip shifter, power steering with two-spoke steering wheel, faux woodgrain dashboard trim, overhead console, and aftermarket Kenwood AM/FM stereo that is Bluetooth-compatible.
This Barracuda features the standard instrument cluster, which includes 120-mph speedometer and gauges for temperature, alternator, and fuel, plus a clock. The odometer shows 93,691 miles, though the true mileage is unknown.
The original 318 has been replaced by a 360 crate engine, which features an Edelbrock intake and four-barrel carburetor, Mopar Performance valve covers and air cleaner, headers, and aluminum radiator. The engine is shifted by a four-speed manual transmission.
The undercarriage features a limited-slip differential, power front disc brakes, and dual exhaust system with MagnaFlow mufflers.
Barracudas are Barracudas, but a Gran Coupe is a different breed. This one isn’t quite stock, but it’s set up for speed and style. Wherever you go with the car that’s the subject of this AutoHunter Spotlight, people will gravitate to it because E-bodies improved the breed—at least Mopar folks like to think so. Not a Mopar person but curious? This 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Gran Coupe is a splendid way to find out. Auction ends on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. (MST).
Of all the ’70s and ’80s BMWs, the 6 Series cars have been my absolute favorite since I first saw one in the pages of Road & Track in the early 1980s. It actually goes beyond that, though. To me, the E24 6 Series – especially the ones with the revised suspension introduced in 1983 – are among the finest GT cars of the era. Sure, there are faster cars out there from that time, but the classic 6 Series was the most competent and usable GT car of them all, offering comfort, very high build quality using good materials, and performance (0-60 time in the 7-8 seconds range and a top speed of more than 130 mph).
All that combines to make the BMW 6 Series the No. 1 choice I would make for a GT coupe of the era. In essence it is the very definition of a 1970s to ’80s European GT. In my opinion, this Pick of the Day would be the perfect entry point into the world of the 6 Series: a 1985 BMW 635csi offered on ClassicCars.com by a private seller located in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada.
The seller describes this 635csi as still wearing its original factory black paint, factory alloy wheels, and original black leather interior. It is equipped with its original 3.5-liter SOHC BMW M30 inline-six engine backed by a 5-speed manual transmission. It also features four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a sunroof. Amenities include air conditioning, power-adjustable seats, dual-side rearview mirrors, cruise control power windows, BMWs onboard computer/system check panel, and a Pioneer radio.
The interior of this car looks to be in excellent condition, with no tears in the leather, no broken stitching, no dash cracks. In other words, it is a car that has not suffered the way many 6 Series cars have.
This truly seems to be an excellent original example of a BMW 635csi. There are no photos of the engine compartment, but the photos of the underside of the car show a 6 Series BMW that is astonishing clean and free of any corrosion.
The few photos provided (come on, people – help us help you by taking many more high-quality photos of your cars!) show a car that honestly looks to be in excellent condition. Based on those and the low mileage of 71,000, this is a car I would seriously consider packing in my garage. As an added bonus, the asking price for this 1989 BMW 635csi is only $26,900. Finally, don’t let the fact that it is located in Canada part put you off: The owner states they would be happy to have the car delivered to Champlain, New York, free of any taxes or tariffs.
Barrett-Jackson announced today its 2026 Scottsdale Select Preview is live and highlights the diverse mix of custom, Resto-Mod, supercars, trucks and SUVs in the starting lineup for the Jan. 17-25 event at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Among the most anticipated collectible vehicles is a 2017 Ford GT (preview) with 937 actual miles that was formerly owned by actor and comedian Tim Allen. Customs set to take center stage include a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette convertible (preview) and a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window Coupe (preview), both recently completed by Jeff Hayes Customs.
“Our Select Preview is a peek into the outstanding collectible vehicles we’re getting ready for our biggest auction of the year in Scottsdale this January,” said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “We’ll have over 2,000 highly coveted collector cars and trucks that appeal to the world’s most seasoned collectors, as well as attract the attention of first-time bidders. The diversity of our docket, which includes No Reserve and select Reserve consignments, is what sets Barrett-Jackson apart and has defined our growing success over the years. We have some very special vehicles and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone in Scottsdale to kick off the 2026 collector car auction season with us.”
2023 Brabus 900 Rocket R
Supercars will be among the superstars of the Barrett-Jackson 2026 Scottsdale Auction. A highly anticipated offering is a 2023 Brabus 900 Rocket R (preview), the first of 25 produced worldwide and one of two legal for use in the U.S. Finished in Mexico Blue, it is powered by a Brabus-tuned twin-turbocharged flat-6 capable of 0 to 60 mph in under 2.5 seconds, 0 to 120 mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed exceeding 211 mph. The 2017 Ford GT (preview) formerly owned by Tim Allen is powered by a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with a 7-speed dual-clutch transaxle and features the Dark Energy interior. One of 541 produced in the limited-edition color, Tungsten Gray, a 2006 Ford GT (preview) features silver painted racing stripes, forged BBS lightweight wheels and red brake calipers. One of one by Genaddi Design Group and finished in Ebony Black with gold stripes, a 2005 Ford GTX1 (preview), No. 24 of 30 produced, is autographed by Carroll Shelby, Roger Penske, Henry Ford III, Edsel Ford, Dan Gurney, Mario Andretti, Michael Andretti and Tony Kanaan.
Tim Allen’s 2017 Ford GT
“Our dockets are assembled with great care and attention to detail,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “We go to great lengths to ensure we have something for every type of bidder. From the ultra-rare 2023 Brabus 900 Rocket R built to dominate the racetracks, to an off-road-capable 1957 Chevrolet 3100 pickup (preview), the chance to find the collectible vehicle of your dreams is within reach at our January auction in Scottsdale.”
Known as “The Rebel,” a 1950 Mercury (preview) is among the custom collectibles consigned for the January event. Professionally chopped by Joe Bailon, this custom Mercury retains an all-steel body and is powered by a mid-1980s Lincoln fuel-injected V8 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission. Other anticipated customs include a pair of custom Chevrolet Corvettes built by Jeff Hayes: a 1967 convertible (preview) and 1963 Split-Window coupe (preview), each powered by a LS3 Hot Cam engine producing 540 horsepower and paired with a 4L70E automatic overdrive transmission on an Art Morrison sport chassis.
Barrett-Jackson is also hauling in the adventure with collectible trucks and SUVs, including a custom 1976 Ford Bronco (preview) that is Legacy Speed & Body’s Widebody Edition Serial No. 001. The first in a limited series and a feature vehicle at the 2025 SEMA Show, it is finished in Highlander Green with a custom Bronze accent package stripe and is powered by a Coyote V8 paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. A multi-award-winning custom, the 1957 Chevrolet 3100 pickup (preview) is built on a Roadster Shop RS4 chassis and features a LS3 engine producing 525 horsepower. Interior features include Dakota Digital RTX gauges, a Restomod Air climate-control system with lighted billet controls and vents, and a custom audio system with Bluetooth capability.
A 1970 Plymouth ’Cuda convertible (preview) is among the restored classic American muscle cars set to find a new owner in Scottsdale this January. This rotisserie-restored factory V-code convertible represents one of the most desirable combinations in the Mopar performance lineup and is one of only 17 4-speed 440 Six-Barrel convertibles built in 1970. The recipient of a fully documented, nut-and-bolt concours restoration a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 (preview) retains its original matching-numbers LS6 V8 paired with a Chevrolet dealer-installed warranty replacement Muncie 4-speed manual transmission from 1972.
Click here to view the 2026 Scottsdale Auction Select Preview and browse hundreds of featured collectible vehicles.
Barrett-Jackson is now accepting consignments for the 2026 Scottsdale Auction. Those interested in being part of the auction may consign their collector vehicle here. Those interested in registering to bid may do so here. VIP Experiences hospitality packages are available here. Throughout the nine-day Scottsdale Auction, children age 12 and under enjoy complimentary admission with a paying adult. General admission tickets for students age 13 through college age are $10 and adult ticket prices start at $27 at the AXS online box office.
On Friday, Jan. 16, country music superstar Cole Swindell will perform live for the 3rd annual “Rock The Block” concert in the Auction Arena at WestWorld of Scottsdale. In addition, the opening act will feature multi-platinum singer-songwriter Chase Rice.
Join Barrett-Jackson’s online conversation with #BarrettJackson and #BJAC on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
In the 1970s, Chrysler Corporation began to apply striping with a strobe theme to several vehicles among its brands. Not only do they look neat, but they also are a reflection of the advent of a new decade that stepped away from the psychedelia that was pervasive in the marketing at the end of the 1960s.
Below are four cars currently listed for sale on AutoHunter or ClassicCars.com. All feature strobe striping. Can you identify the cars in the images? Be sure to indicate model year, make, and model. Those without shame can click on an image for a cheat if necessary.
