Journal Classic Cars

It’s a beautiful day to admire a “bluebird.” More specifically, a Peacock Blue Thunderbird.

The Pick of the Day is a 1956 Ford Thunderbird listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Sammamish, Washington. (Click the link to view the listing)

“If you are one of those people who loves the iconic look of the old T-birds or just want to pick up your special someone for an evening they’ll never forget, this is the car for you. Take a cruise around the town in style,” the listing states.  

The first-generation Thunderbird (sold between model years 1955 and 1957) was offered only as a two-seat convertible and took on the classification of “personal luxury car.” It was designed to be more of a grand tourer than an all-out sports car like the Corvette. In 1955, it sold 16,155 units in comparison to the Corvette’s 674, so the marketplace reception of the car was warm. There were some changes to the car’s overall design the following year including the addition of a rear-mounted continental kit, portholes in the hardtop, a 12-volt electrical system, and revised moldings.

The seller provides some background on this specific car: “This one came off the Dearborn, Michigan assembly line on January 6, 1956, destined for the Los Angeles market. She has been with the same owner since 1987, a vintage car collector for many years before that, and is now ready for the next person to love and enjoy her.”

One of the most striking things about this car is its Peacock Blue exterior shade. This vivid color was classified as code “L” on the data plate for 1956-model-year Thunderbirds. This car’s plate shows color code “E” which crosswalks to Colonial White, so at some point in the car’s lifetime it was resprayed. The seller notes that the paint has a few minor chips, but it presents well in the photos.

Under the front-hinged hood lives a four-barrel 312cid Y-block V8 paired with a floor-shifted three-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission. The powertrain was good for 225 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque, so even as “luxury” car, the Thunderbird could still move with authority.

“If you want to be the next loving caretaker of this vintage classic automobile, please contact me,” the listing concludes. The asking price is $59,900 for this blue ‘bird, which includes a jack, a service manual, and a car cover.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.

That time is rapidly approaching: Barrett-Jackson’s 2023 Las Vegas auction is a-happening this month — specifically, June 22-24th. Are ya gonna go? With a diverse selection of cars, you’re bound to find something you like.

Last week, we gave you a hand-picked preview for you to create a dream sequence of sorts but, just in case your boat wasn’t floated, why not show you a few more? We feel the number of cars on our list shouldn’t be limited, and we are sure you would feel the same.

1967 Chevrolet Camaro SS/RS
It may be a cliché to think “auction” and “Camaro”, but why should we ignore any cool car because of that? This one is painted in the very pretty Royal Plum and is complemented by a white vinyl top with matching interior. Not only does Z27 Super Sport equipment ensure you’re never late for Cars & Coffee, but also the Z22 Rally Sport package will ensure you look good when you arrive. The 295-horsepower 350 was all-new for 1967 and a Camaro (if not SS) exclusive, with this one being backed by a M20 four-speed manual. The data plate has the hallowed 4P designation for SS 350 and 3L for Rally Sport but, as this Camaro is originally Canadian, it also has paperwork from GM of Canada’s Vintage Vehicle Services.

1970 Dodge Challenger R/T
Did you miss out on the Black Ghost, the old Detroit street racer? If so, don’t fret — here’s another black Hemi Challenger for you. Not everyone gets second chances, so thank your lucky stars. Of course, it must be an R/T to be a Hemi, and it’s also black inside to boot. Stripe-delete assists in keeping things spooky, and a Pistol Grip four-speed with 4.10 gears makes this faster than your ordinary ghost. Other features include chrome side mirrors on both sides, AM radio, 15-inch Rallye wheels. With 17,805 miles, this ghost is ripe for being the centerpiece of your collection.

1957 GMC Suburban Carrier
The Chevrolet Cameo Carrier was not the only hip utility from the 1950s, Daddy-O! GMC also had its own version called the Suburban Carrier, which featured slightly different styling plus a different powerplant — no Chevy small-block here! Instead, V8-powered GMC trucks of the era featured a Pontiac engine, in this case a 347ci upgraded to Tri-Power status. Claimed to be one of 250 built, this restored Chrome Yellow and Dove White example comes complete with original parts including spotlights, chrome, trim, and wheels.

1955 Chevrolet Nomad Custom Wagon
Before the Cameo and Suburban Carriers, Chevrolet developed a utilitarian show car that featured hardtop styling. Called the Nomad, it was a two-door Corvette wagon with a roof design that eventually would be used for the full-size 1955-57 Chevrolet Nomad. While the Corvette-based wagon never made production, here we have a hot rod replica sitting on 1992 C4 running gear. That means power comes from a 300-horsepower LT1 backed by a six-speed. The interior will feel familiar to Corvette enthusiasts because you’ll find 1992 Corvette components including airbags, ABS, AM/FM/CD/cassette, digital dash, and even power locks. Imagine driving this every day and being able to get it serviced at your local Chevy dealership!

Porsche on Thursday revealed a revised design for its iconic crest logo that will start appearing on the automaker’s vehicles from late 2023.

The basic design hasn’t changed but elements have been simplified to make 2D versions of the logo, like those used in digital mediums, more closely match 3D versions, like physical badges.

The gold of the logo has also taken on a darker tone, while the “Stuttgart” script in the center has been made black for the first time.

There’s still the familiar layout with a prancing horse borrowed from the seal of Stuttgart, Porsche’s home, as well as red and black bars and antlers, which come from the coat of arms of the former German state Württemberg-Hohenzollern, which is now part of the state Baden-Württemberg, whose capital is Stuttgart.

Perhaps the most dramatic change is the honeycomb-like pattern added to the red sections of the logo. The pattern is meant to signify the technical aspect of Porsche cars and has a real-world link with weight-saving technology used by the automaker.

“We have reinterpreted historical characteristics and combined them with innovative design elements such as a honeycomb structure and brushed metal,” Michael Mauer, Porsche’s design chief, said in a statement. “The result is an aesthetically ambitious arc that bridges the history and the future of the brand.”

The logo dates back to 1952. Porsche’s first sports car, the 356, was already in production for a few years at that time and management wanted a proper logo to help build brand awareness, at the urging of U.S. importer Max Hoffman. A competition among art schools was run to seek a winning design but with none of the submissions pleasing management, in-house designer Franz Xaver Reimspiess, who designed the original Volkswagen logo in 1936, came up with a logo that emphasized civic pride.

Since the first logo, revisions have been made in 1954, 1963, 1973, 1994, 2008, and now in 2023. Anyone restoring an older Porsche can always find badges with the earlier designs via the Porsche Classic department.

HIGH-RES GALLERY: Revised Porsche crest logo – June 2023

This article was originally published by Motor Authority, an editorial partner of ClassicCars.com

This 1995 Ford F-250 XLT SuperCab is available for sale at no reserve, on AutoHunter.com the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, so the highest bid as of the closing date and time on June 5 will take the truck. Under its hood resides Ford’s strong 7.5-liter big-block V8 capable of producing 245 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. An automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case manage the distribution of power to all four wheels which are shod in Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner tires. This F-250 is being offered with a clean CARFAX report and a clear title.

Coated in an Oxford White paint finish, this workhorse comes from the F-Series’ ninth generation, which had a lifespan from model years 1992 through 1997. Even though its bodywork was modernized and the front and rear fascias were streamlined, the chassis was essentially a carry-over of the F-Series pickups dating as far back as 1980. Exterior design was crafted by Jack Telnack, who served as the global Vice President of Design at Ford between 1980 and 1997.

Ford sold the ninth-generation F-Series in many different configurations, including regular-cab, extended-cab (or SuperCab, as seen here), and crew cabs along with a variety of bed options and payloads. This example offers the grunt of a 460cid (7.5-liter) V8 engine that was known for its torque and reliability. The transmission is a C6 three-speed automatic.

The interior of the cab has a simple design with gray cloth upholstery for the split-bench front, full-width bench in the rear, and matching soft materials throughout. Amenities include tinted windows, a dash mat, an AM/FM/CD stereo, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, and a trailer brake controller.

This F-250 has accrued just a touch fewer than 200,000 miles on the odometer, and it is ready to go to its new home and continue putting in work. Towing equipment is already in place for your camp trailer, boat, or toy hauler. Best of all, the auction has no reserve, so the highest bidder will be taking this truck home for some summer fun and adventures.

The auction for this 1995 Ford F-250 ends on Monday, June 5, 2023, at 1:45 p.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

Chevrolet was granted liberties that other brands within General Motors usually didn’t receive. Take this 1967 Chevelle SS 396 as an example: it was available with a solid-lifter 396 (option code L78) rated at 375 horsepower. The same engine was rated in the 1965 Corvette as 425 horsepower. Even at 375, it broke GM’s rule of no more than 10 pounds per horsepower, something no other GM brand happened to do.

As a result, the engine (which was available 1966-70) was rarely advertised. In fact, it wasn’t even mentioned in the brochure, yet Chevrolet sold thousands of them — in 1966, 3,099 Chevelle SS 396s and El Caminos were built with the L78 and, in 1968, another 4,751. Not bad for word-of-mouth!

But in 1967, only 612 L78s were installed in the Chevelle SS 396 and El Camino. Why such a difference from other years? I can’t explain, but 1967 was a strange year at Chevrolet: L72 427 availability for the big cars disappeared, and only six Chevy IIs were built with the L79 327/350 after several thousand being built in 1966. I have heard the L79 was cancelled for the Chevy II so as not to cannibalize Camaro sales but later reappeared — could the latter have been the same for the Chevelle SS 396? Noted Chevelle expert Dale McIntosh thinks this scenario may be possible with the L78. “From what I’ve gathered from conversations with knowledgeable Chevelle owners, the L78 engine was dropped for 1967 for whatever reason, then reinstated around April/May but with no fanfare or advertisement. As such, only a few dealers and potential buyers even knew it was back on. Hence, only 612 were sold.”

One of those rare 1967 L78s is presented here by Muscle Car Campy. Owned by Frank Oddo, he bought this Chevelle in 1971 after graduating from high school, and he’s kept it ever since. Besides the rare L78, this SS 396 also was built with a red bench seat (code 747), one of 10,074 Chevelles built with this interior and, of those, you can imagine just a handful were SS 396s as buckets seem to be the rule.

If you enjoy this video, you can check out other fine automotive videos from Muscle Car Campy.

Editor’s Note: this article was originally published March 22, 2022, however we are republishing in honor of Chevelle Day.

Chevrolet produced the Chevelle from 1964-1977 in almost every kind of body type and performance option a consumer could want. With so many choices available, what is your favorite Chevelle?

Let us know in the comments section below what is your favorite Chevelle. Like my high school history always told me, “There are no wrong answers.”

My choice? The 1970 coupe.

There’s a hot example of American muscle for sale just north of the border: In line with our Chevelle Day, I felt it appropriate to highlight a big-block with one of the most powerful motors in Chevelle heritage.

The Pick of the Day is a 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle convertible SS tribute listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Sudbury, Ontario. (Click the link to view the listing)

“Full rotisserie restoration with all components rebuilt or replaced,” the listing states. This second-generation Chevelle ragtop has been remodeled as a tribute to a Super Sport, complete with a big-block 454cid V8 installed under the hood. The seller adds some context to the build and its significance:

“Has 454 big-block from a ’73 Chevelle, engine suffix code TOI24CWB, motor rebuilt .030 over, Turbo 400 transmission,” the listing states. “This is a documented Canadian vehicle; only 298 were imported for sale. Comes with GM documentation.”

Specifically, that documentation includes a certificate from General Motors of Canada that outlines some of the vehicle vitals: The car was produced on September 16, 1971, in Baltimore, Maryland in Orange Flame over White. It was originally sold through Belisle Automobiles Limited in Ottawa, Ontario, and the installed equipment list included a tinted windshield, front disc brakes, a push-button radio, hydraulic steering, power brakes, and more.

For 1972, the final year of the second-gen Chevelle received subtle design changes, including revisions to the marker lights along with concealed windshield wipers. Otherwise, the car was largely a carry-over from 1971. The 1973 model year would later bring a significant rework, and convertible models were discontinued beginning that year. (Making this 1972 model essentially the last of its kind).

Speaking of convertibles, the seller says that the black cloth top on this SS tribute has been replaced. The interior and carpeting are also new. And best of all, the listing adds that this Chevelle has been driven only 250 miles since restoration, and it is mechanically sound enough to drive anywhere.

“Very hard to try and restore a Chevelle these days for this price,” the paragraph concludes. A five-minute walkaround video is provided in the listing, along with a gallery of over 60 photos.

The asking price is $54,900 or best offer, and the amount is in U.S. dollars.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.

 Midland Radio, the leader in two-way radio communication technology, announced its collaboration with the Jeep® brand the authentic global SUV brand that brings capability, versatility and off-road adventure to owners and enthusiasts around the world. Midland Radio is kicking off the relationship with the introduction of the T77VP5J Jeep X-Talker Extreme Dual Pack, the first of many Jeep-branded Midland products to come.

Midland Radio and the Jeep brand have long been at the forefront of the off-roading community, providing rugged and reliable products that enthusiasts love. The dedication and affinity toward this community over the years is why both brands continue to create unrivaled experiences for this audience through innovative products and events. Midland’s continued sponsorship of Jeep Jamboree and this newly announced relationship further solidifies Midland Radio’s position as the market leader in off-road communications and the trusted manufacturer for Jeep enthusiasts.

The T77VP5J Jeep X-Talker Extreme Dual Pack is a by-product of Midland’s long-time customer favorite T71 license-free handheld. With features that include up to 38 miles in range, 36 channels, crisp communication and Weather Alert Radio with Weather Scan technology, users can venture far and wide without worrying about losing contact or getting caught in severe weather. A micro-USB charging port also allows for easy, accessible in-vehicle recharging. Now, Jeep enthusiasts can show off their love for the brand on a practical piece of equipment that they can take with them on the trails or out while camping.

“When the leading automotive manufacturer brand of off-road vehicles chooses and trusts you as their go-to off-road communication equipment, you are doing something right,” said Dan Schwartz, CEO of Midland Radio. “We are excited to partner with the Jeep brand and to announce the T77VP5J. We aim to enhance all Jeep enthusiasts’ experiences by providing the best possible communication while hitting the trails in their Jeep 4×4 vehicles.”

The T77VP5J is the first Midland Radio product to bear the Jeep brand logo, with additional models to come in the popular MicroMobile line.

The T77VP5J Jeep X-Talker Extreme Dual Pack is offered at $134.99 and is currently available for purchase from Midland and approved retailers.

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1955 Chevrolet 210 restomod. It is powered by a fuel-injected LS 5.3-liter V8 backed by a four-speed automatic transmission. Features include four-wheel disc brakes, Lexus power front bucket seats, center console, tilt steering column, Vintage Air climate controls, and power windows. Finished in Sunset Pearl and Root Beer Brown and complemented by a saddle interior featuring leather seats with synthetic suede inserts, this 210 comes with restoration receipts, parts manuals, color-matched diecast replica and a clear title.

During the restoration, which was completed in January 2017, the exterior was finished in Sunset Pearl and Root Beer Brown. Features include chrome bumpers, custom mesh grille, sport mirrors with integrated turn signals, C5 Corvette door handles, Bel Air side trim, shaved fuel door, and custom taillights with hidden fuel filler on the driver’s side.

A set of 18-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) Boze Alloys aluminum wheels is wrapped in Nitto radial tires.

The Lexus power front bucket and rear bucket seats are upholstered in saddle leather with suede-like microfiber inserts. Features include power steering, tinted power windows, tilt steering column, full-length center console with automatic shifter, Pioneer AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM touchscreen stereo, Vintage Air climate controls, and Holley EFI Terminator X touchscreen controller.

The instrument panel consists of a 160-mph speedometer, 8,000-rpm tachometer and gauges for the fuel level, voltage, oil pressure and coolant temperature. The digital odometer reads 3,191 miles, which the seller states reflects the miles logged since the installation of the LS small-block; the true mileage is unknown.

Power is provided by a new, fuel-injected LS 5.3-liter V8 backed by a four-speed automatic transmission. Engine bay features include a body-color firewall, Wilwood hydroboost power brake system, polished air conditioning compressor, custom air intake tube, aluminum radiator, and billet hood hinges.

This 210 is equipped with an independent front suspension and 12-bolt rear end with 3.73 gears. Braking is provided by power four-wheel discs. A dual exhaust system exits at the rear.

The auction for this 1955 Chevrolet 210 restomod ends on Friday, May 19, 2023, at 12:30 p.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

A prototype of one of Ferrari’s most significant sports cars is headed to auction.

This 1967 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona—chassis 10287—is billed as the first prototype of the iconic Daytona coupe. Set to be auctioned off by RM Sotheby’s from May 22-26, it features a somewhat different design than the eventual production model.

The 365 GTB/4 Daytona was intended as a successor to the Ferrari 275 GTB/4, and that’s reflected in the design of this prototype. Its tubular steel chassis carries over from the 275, and the round headlights are more reminiscent of that model than the visor-like design used on the eventual production 365 GTB/4.

One of six Daytona prototypes constructed, chassis 10287 also has a unique iteration of Ferrari’s Colombo V-12, which powered many of Ferrari’s sports cars in this period. The block is based on that of a 330 GT but bored out to just under 4.4 liters and outfitted with three-valve heads, dual ignition (with two spark plugs per cylinder), dry sump oiling, and six Weber DCN18 carburetors.

Chassis 10287 was completed in early 1967, tested by the Ferrari factory for about a year, and registered for road use on May 8, 1968 through the automaker’s Rome dealership. Back then it was possible for automakers to sell prototypes to customers; chassis 10287 made it into private hands about five months before the production 365 GTB/4 was unveiled at the 1968 Paris Auto Salon, according to the auction listing.

The car was initially loaned to Count Vincenzo Balestrieri, a Roman industrialist, while he waited for a Daytona Spider he had ordered. The prototype coupe was traded back to Ferrari when the Spider arrived, and changed hands several times over the years before being acquired by the father of the current owner in September 2003. It was restored by Ferrari specialists, has won numerous awards at car shows, and is Ferrari Classiche certified.

Produced through 1973, the Daytona became one of Ferrari’s best-known models, and remains one of the most collectible today. It all started with this prototype, which will find a new home in the hands of a lucky enthusiast. RM Sotheby’s offers no price estimate, but expect this car to go for millions.

HIGH-RES GALLERY: 1967 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona prototype (photo via RM Sotheby’s)

This article was originally published by Motor Authority, an editorial partner of ClassicCars.com