Journal Classic Cars

Chevy Nova history runs in my family. After all, a modified 1968 Nova was the car my dad drove in the late 1970s when he was first getting to know my mom. Decades later, I’ve even gone so far as to have a friend customize a scale-model replica of my dad’s former car as a holiday gift for him.

I’ve been tempted to buy the real thing, and this example is pretty compelling:

Featured on AutoHunter is this 1972 Chevrolet Nova SS 2-Door. The car is being sold by a private party in Littlerock, California, and the auction will end Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 12 p.m. PDT.

Most notably, according to the VIN, the car is a true Super Sport. But there’s a lot more to the car than just its trim tag conveys. The body was reportedly stripped to bare metal and refinished in Pewter Grey with a holographic micro-flake. Exterior features include chrome brightwork, LED lighting and 15-inch Cragar SS wheels shod in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires.

The interior received its share of attention, too. The seats were reupholstered in black vinyl, and the carpeting, sun visors, weatherstripping and sound system were replaced. The cabin received sound-deadening insulation throughout, and the instrument cluster is particularly cool: It’s a clean, modernized all-digital setup with readouts for speed, rpm, voltage, coolant temperature and fuel level.

The Nova (or “Chevy II” in its earliest days) was a compact car that first launched in 1962. It was marketed as a “not too big, not too small” car. For model year 1972 Chevrolet acknowledged (even promoted) the fact that the car was essentially a carry-over from the prior year, minus some improvements to the emission-control system and minor trim changes. Chevrolet managed to sell about 350,000 Novas that year, and the platform lasted a couple more years before a significant rework.

Power for this silver bullet comes from a built 383ci small-block V8 mated to a rebuilt three-speed Turbo Hydra-matic 350 automatic transmission. According to the listing, the block was machined by Blair’s Speed Shop in Pasadena, California. Performance upgrades abound, and equipment includes an Edelbrock 640cfm four-barrel carburetor, Icon pistons, a Comp Cams hydraulic roller cam, AFR heads, MSD ignition and a JEGS electronic distributor. Wilwood disc brakes have been added for safe, confident stopping ability to offset all those go-fast parts.

All-in, the car is a well-thought-out machine with the exterior, interior and mechanical necessities for a proper muscle car. It’s a Super Sport that has been made even sportier. My dad would get a kick out of it, no doubt!

The auction for this 1972 Chevrolet Nova SS 2-Door ends Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 12 p.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

It’s spring, which means it’s time for the Easter Jeep Safari and a new array of custom builds by Jeep and Jeep Performance Parts. Ford is also getting in on the off-road action in Moab, Utah by showing off its two Bronco Off-Roadeo project vehicles.

The teams behind the builds, known as the Bronco Off-Roadeo: Arches Edition and Bronco Off-Roadeo: Cliffhanger Project Vehicle, drew inspiration from their surroundings, such as the Arches National Park and the Cliffhanger trail. Both one-offs are covered with a matte protective film that mimics the color of Moab’s red rock formations. According to Ford, “The combination of the metallic shade and matte finish create brilliant flares of color in sunlight.”

Moab’s stone arches led to the Code Orange accents on the wheels’ beadlock rings, trail sights, and roof rails. The interior graphics represent the petroglyphs of Newspaper Rock and Horseshoe Canyon.

Bronco Off-Roadeo: Arches Edition
Based on the four-door Bronco Badlands, the Arches Edition is Ford’s vision of an “ultimate all-around option for taking you and four friends around Moab’s grueling trails.” To help it do that, Ford equipped it with a ReadyLift SST two-inch lift kit and 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KDR2 tires wrapped around 17-inch beadlock-capable Method wheels.

The power-folding soft top allows everyone to see more of the beauty of the outdoors; a Rigid light bar illuminates the road ahead at night. If the going gets a little too tough, the Arches Edition has a Ford Performance Parts by Warn winch up front.

Bronco Off-Roadeo: Cliffhanger Project Vehicle
The idea behind the Cliffhanger was more specific: create a two-door Bronco for slow, technical off-roading. That requires ground clearance and grip, which explains the 18-inch beadlock-capable Method wheels with 40-inch BFGoodrich Baja T/A Evo 3.0S tires. Fox Live Valve shocks help control the footwork all that rubber does. Ford Performance Parts tube doors and a Bucking Bronco bimini top let people wheeling in the Cliffhanger see even more of the trails they’re on.

If you’re in Moab already or plan on going out there very soon, you can see the Bronco Off-Roadeo: Arches Edition and Cliffhanger Project Vehicle at the Bronco Stampede all this week. In the meantime, let us know what you think of these customs in the Comments section below.

Currently open for bids on AutoHunter is this 1969 Ford Cobra Hardtop. Based on the Fairlane, the Cobra was created to battle with the Plymouth Road Runner, so it had few standard frills. However, Ford’s trump card was a 428 Cobra Jet, an engine that simply outclassed the 383 Mopar—the strategy being that, for a few dollars more, you’d have a faster car of at least equal value. Plus, the Cobra was available as both a Hardtop and SportsRoof fastback, the latter something that no other manufacturer offered in its class. This Black Jade 1969 Cobra Hardtop features a black vinyl and cloth interior and comes with a Deluxe Marti Report and Canadian registration.

Ford only built 3,786 Cobra Hardtops in 1969, and many were painted in Black Jade. Can you blame ‘em? It’s a gorgeous green that shifts its shade depending on the light. Other features include hood pins, a chrome driver-side remote mirror, and several badges proclaiming the model and engine size. A set of 14-inch steel wheels with Ford “poverty caps” are wrapped in 225/70 BFGoodrich Radial T/As, though if you look at the Marti Report, this car is one of the very few to be equipped with radials when new.

The vinyl and cloth split front bench seat features head restraints, which were mandated into law on January 1, 1969. A rare feature is air conditioning, which was somewhat incongruent with the modus operandi of the Cobra, but it was available as an option. Other features include power steering, a column-mounted automatic shifter, and a factory AM radio with a glovebox-installed Jensen stereo update featuring FM, CD, auxiliary, and SiriusXM capabilities.

The instrument panel consists of a 120-mph speedometer and gauges for the temperature and fuel, plus a clock. The odometer shows 29,567 miles, though the title reads mileage-exempt.

The Cobra was only available with two versions of the 428 Cobra Jet: standard Q-code without ram air and R-code with the air induction system. This one is a Q-code, adding to its Q-ship (pun intended) status. Only 667 Q-code/automatic Cobra Hardtops were built for 1969.

A Ford nine-inch rear axle houses 3.00 gears. Power front disc brakes help put a stop to this Cobra. A dual exhaust system carries spent fuel to the rear.

While Plymouth produced over 80K Road Runners, Ford produced only 14,885 Cobras between two body styles and two Cobra Jet engines. Its relative rarity and superior powertrain make this 1969 Ford Cobra Hardtop a fine choice for your garage. Plus, your tired body would really appreciate the air conditioning, no? Be quick, as bidding for this Blue Oval muscle car ends on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 11:15 a.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

To you Boomers out there: Yeah, I know, you and no one else ever called high-performance cars “muscle cars.” You called ‘em “super cars” or some other thing, and you know because by golly, you were alive back in the day!

Except that perception has not aged very well over time.

Aside from the age-old argument over which model was the first muscle car, the public started to call high-performance cars “muscle cars” as early as 1965. Is there an earlier example? Perhaps, but I haven’t found it.

What I have found are articles and ads from several newspapers from around the country that use the term “muscle car.” Glance at the Santa Cruz Sentinel dated 1965 (June 27^th and August 1^st) in which the writer references “muscle cars” out of Detroit.

The same was repeated in the January 30, 1966, edition. In a November 19, 1967, article evaluating a GS 400, the headline reads, “Buick Civilizes its ‘Muscle Car’.”

Two days later, the Portsmouth Herald contained an ad from a dealership advertising “muscle cars.” This was followed on June 14, 1967, by a similar yet different ad. This paper also happened to feature a dealer ad in the June 5, 1965, issue that makes the earliest “muscle cars” reference I’ve found.

In a March 4, 1966, article in the Big Spring Daily Herald, it was said that “if these kids with their muscle-cars had a place they could legally engine contests against a clock (not against other cars), so that the fastest time recorded in a quarter mile wins the brass ring, they would tend to hold down the speeding on public streets.”

Same state, different paper: The July 26, 1967, issue of the San Antonio Express featured a Dodge ad touting “The Muscle Car” and showing a Coronet R/T with a 440 Magnum.

After seeing these articles and ads, it should be more than clear that “muscle car” was part of our vernacular in their heyday.

Which color do you envision when you hear the name “Ferrari“? It’s extremely likely you picture red because a red Ferrari has been a go-to status symbol for decades. Our Pick of the Day, a 1995 Ferrari 456 GT posted on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in New York, shows that Prancing Horses can look great in other colors, too.

After Ferrari stopped production of the angular 412 2+2 in 1989, three years would pass until the storied brand introduced another front-engine 2+2. Instead of evolving the 412’s wedge shape, Ferrari went further back in its history and drew inspiration from a much more iconic model: the 365 GTB/4, aka “Daytona.” As Ferrari puts it, the influence on the 456’s largely aluminum bodywork is visible in “the long bonnet, featuring retractable headlight pods, running into a set back cabin. Also inspired by the ‘Daytona’ was the design treatment of the rear of the cabin envelope and tail.” The end result is a tasteful, subtle (as subtle as a V12 Ferrari can be, at least) GT that pays tribute to one of its ancestors without aping its design.

For the 456’s engine, Ferrari started fresh, leaving behind the old flat-12 used in the Berlinetta Boxer, Testarossa, and their descendants. The F116 B 5.5-liter V12‘s two banks of cylinders were set at a 65-degree angle and equipped with track-friendly dry-sump lubrication. Ferrari rated the new V12 at 442 horsepower (although many outlets show 436) and 406 lb-ft of torque. The 456 GT’s gearbox was new as well, making the 456 the first Ferrari road car with an all-synchromesh six-speed transaxle. Together, the engine and transmission were able to bring the 456 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and a top speed north of 186 mph.

In the 1990s, there were much flashier Ferraris, such as the F355 and F50. By comparison, the 456 is understated, which adds to its appeal. It’s a different kind of Ferrari, for those whose style is “stealth wealth”—especially in this particular 456’s Canna Di Fucile finish.

With its rich tan leather, the four-seat cabin is the perfect complement to the low-key paint. Power front seats, adjustable dampers, a self-leveling rear suspension, and air conditioning will enable the future driver of this modern classic to rack up hundreds of miles at a clip in total comfort. He or she will also have peace of mind knowing this 56K-mile 456 underwent a $14,000 service at Ferrari of Seattle in 2023 that included new suspension bushings. In addition to service records, it also comes with its original manuals and some tools. You can be that future driver of this 1995 Ferrari 456 GT for $94,500.

Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Ryan Brutt being a member of the Moparts.com forum and shoot up into automotive fame. He has a penchant for hunting down decrepit muscle cars, showing us pics and videos, and eliciting oohs and aahs. Now, Ryan has hit the big time as Chicago’s very own WGN-TV has done a profile on the barn find sleuth who profiles old cars.

Truth be told, Ryan has already hit the big time as a contributor to Hot Rod, author of two books, and the most popular display at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals. Thanks to the “network effect,” car owners have gone from being suspicious of this would-be interloper to welcoming him with open arms because Ryan is honest, keeps his word, and doesn’t disclose private information. In fact, Ryan was recruited to document what may be the ultimate barn find because . . . well, because he’s the Auto Archaeologist!

Lesson learned: follow your passions, be kind, and the universe will open up for you.

Ryan’s adventures could be random sightings from the roads, inquiries about possible cars in barns, or an invite from a hoarder or owner of a specialized salvage yard—it runs the gamut. Looking at Ryan’s output, you’ll notice with amazement that there are a lot of very rare cars that people have sitting on dirt.

In other words, they’re still out there!

If you’re interested in following Ryan on social media, click here for his Facebook feed, here for his Instagram feed, and here for Auto Archaeology on YouTube.

Here’s to Ryan for a job well done!

Currently listed on AutoHunter is this 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible. It’s powered by its rebuilt original Turbo-Fire 350ci V8, which is paired with a Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic. Finished in LeMans Blue and equipped with a white convertible top over a Bright Blue vinyl interior, this C3 is now offered by the Texas-based seller with a body-color hardtop, service records that go back to 1980, and clear title.

The curvy exterior is covered in LeMans Blue paint and equipped with chrome bumpers, pop-up headlights, front fender gills, chrome mirror housings, rear antenna, and dual exhaust outlets. The white manual soft top fits underneath a body-color tonneau cover.

This Stingray glides on a set of 15-inch Rally wheels and new 255/60 Hankook Kinergy ST radial tires.

Inside, this third-generation Vette has Bright Blue bucket seats and components. Features include manual windows, air conditioning, updated Kenwood AM/FM/cassette radio, and center console.

Instrumentation consists of a 160-mph speedometer, 7,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for the fuel level, water temperature, oil pressure, and battery. The analog odometer shows 50,989 miles, but the title indicates this vehicle is mileage-exempt.

Under the hood is the original L48 Turbo-Fire 350ci V8, which was factory-rated at 300 horsepower. The small-block was rebuilt in 2017 and comes equipped with a new Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor, intake manifold, distributor, and battery. The refreshed engine delivers its output to the 3.08:1 rear end through a Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel power disc brakes keep that power in check.

You have the power to make this Corvette yours, but only if you bid in time. Do that now – the auction for this 1969 Chevrolet Corvette convertible ends on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 11:15 a.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

Every spring, Jeep owners and off-road enthusiasts head to Moab, Utah for the Easter Jeep Safari. This year marks the 59th running of the event, which takes place April 12-20, 2025. Consider it one long Jeep love fest filled with wheeling, lessons, repairs, and memories. Jeep always makes sure to return the love by arriving with a variety of concepts that show new parts and different spins on past and current vehicles. This year’s batch of Easter Jeep Safari builds made in collaboration with the specialists at Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) consists of the following.

Convoy
This military-inspired rig pays homage to the J-Series trucks with its distinctive nose and features a 12,000-pound Warn winch, brown canvas half doors, matching top and bed canopy, and high-clearance fender flares over a set of 17-inch Warn wheels surrounded by 40-inch BFGoodrich Krawler tires.

Bug Out 4xe
Overlanding can be heavy if you bring too much stuff. The Bug Out 4xe is all about lightening the load, which explains its half doors and lack of rear windows. To make getting away from it all easier, the Bug Out 4xe has integrated auxiliary battery packs, 12-inch body extension with a flat rear floor to provide shelter from the elements, and attachment points for a sleeping hammock.

Rewind
Many Jeep builds are inspired by Jeeps from WWII. That’s not the case here. The Rewind is a throwback to the 1980s and ’90s. That’s why it’s covered in Grimace purple and colorful graphics, with the interior featuring custom retro print inserts. There’s even a vintage car cell phone (perhaps next year’s EJS will have a rig inspired by Cher Horowitz’s YJ in “Clueless”).

Wrangler 4xe Blueprint
According to Stellantis, the Blueprint concept is “a rolling catalog of factory-tested and factory-backed items from Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts. Carrying more than 35 accessories finished in contrasting Mopar Blue and labeled with QR codes, each provides a live link to the Mopar eStore consumer website for specific part numbers, specifications, and options to purchase.” Those parts include a two-inch lift kit, rock rails, Rubicon steel bumpers, snorkel, and tailgate table.

Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Sunchaser
Sometimes an outdoor adventure can take all day and night. The Sunchaser is ready for those long hours with a two-inch lift, roof rack, and concept parts such as the vented high-top steel fender flares, side storage boxes, and Mopar ILLUMINAT3 off-road pivoting light bar.

Gladiator Rubicon High Top Honcho
Jeep gave its modern pickup 1970s-style graphics along with white steel wheels, 40-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 rubber, Dana 60 axles, an AccuAir adjustable air suspension, and bed roll bar.

J6 Honcho
To make this 1970s Jeep Honcho tribute, the build team converted a Gladiator into a two-door pickup with a six-foot bed “box” area. Additional modifications include several custom parts: a triple-hoop front bumper with TYRI lights, flat steel fender flares, rock rails, roll bar with forward- and rear-facing TYRI lights, and rear spare tire carrier.

If you happen to be in Moab, you can see all of these concepts at the Walker Drug store April 14-18. To learn more about these one-offs and the 59th annual Easter Jeep Safari, visit the Stellantis media site by clicking here.

Below are four badges used by various manufacturers to show what engine was powering a particular car. They each belong to a vehicle that is currently listed for sale on AutoHunter or ClassicCars.com. Can you tell us to which car they belong?

In the Comments section below, list the model year, make, and model. If you need a hint, you can click on any image.

Click on a photo to reveal each car

Every Tuesday, you can find a car puzzle at The ClassicCars.com Journal. Once you’re done with this one, you can test your knowledge with previous games.

“If you could own any car in the world, what color would you choose?” said a magazine advertisement from Porsche in 2001. “Not another car in the world could feel like this. Explosive, yet smooth to the redline.”

The Pick of the Day is a low-mileage 2001 Porsche 911 Carrera cabriolet listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Fort Myers, Florida. (Click here to view the listing)

“One of the finest examples of this model anywhere,” the listing begins. “Immaculate original paint. Not a single stone chip.”

The “996” was the fifth iteration of Porsche’s iconic 911 sports car. It was produced from 1997 through 2006, so it is now approaching classic status. Much like we’ve seen via the widespread “RADwood” movement for 1980s and 1990s cars, there is rising collector interest in vehicles from the early 2000s. In particular, well-maintained examples with lower miles are hot-ticket items. Luckily for you, this car checks both of those boxes.

As one would expect from a high-end brand like Porsche, the car is well appointed via heated and power-adjustable seats, a Harman Kardon audio system and automatic climate control. The instrumentation in the 911 was built around an emphasis on performance, which explains why the 8,000-rpm tachometer was front and center in the display.

Power comes from a naturally aspirated, rear-mounted, 3.4-liter flat-six mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Porsche rated the powertrain at 296 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque when new, and one of the key engineering features of the engine was its “VarioCam” variable valve timing. This technology adjusts the timing of the intake camshaft to vary the opening and closing of the valves. As a result, performance was enhanced and fuel efficiency was improved. Modern Porsches still use a version of the same feature.

The car’s odometer shows 27,488 miles, and the seller calls out some specific maintenance notes: In particular, the IMS (or intermediate shaft) bearing has been replaced. The bearing is a known failure point in certain water-cooled Porsche models from the millennial era, so having the work already completed adds to peace of mind.

When it was new, the 2001 Carrera coupe carried an original retail price of about $67,000. The asking price for this low-mileage classic version is $35,500. So, if you’re in the market for a silver bullet, look no further. Better yet, make it Meridian Metallic.

Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com