Journal Classic Cars

On December 11, 1980, my life was forever altered when I watched the 2-hour pilot episode of Magnum, P.I. I was a 14-year-old kid in the 8^th grade, already interested in cars but that show just grabbed me. The whole premise of the show was simply transformative to a 14-year-old; living in Hawaii essentially for free, solving crimes, having adventures with your best friends, all that was great but getting to drive that Ferrari 308 GTS every day made it seem perfect.

That show was my introduction to Ferrari’s cars. I had heard the name but did not really know what they looked like or represented. This was not helped by me living in Tucson, Arizona where a Ferrari was not the most common thing to see.

Now this is where it gets interesting. A few months after I saw the Magnum pilot, I was at the B. Dalton bookstore in Park Mall and found a book called The Illustrated Ferrari Buyers Guide. The price on the book was about $10, and I was able to get my mom to buy it for me.

This book became my bible and I took it with me everywhere, reading and rereading about the different models. I still own the book.

A few weeks later, my friend Tim Furrier saw me with the book and asked me what I thought of the cars. I told him that I thought they were amazing. His comment was, “Come to my house after school I want you to see something.”

After school that day we got to Tim’s house and he took me to his parents garage. He opened the garage and in front of me was a Ferrari 308 GT4. It was the first Ferrari I saw in person. I was stunned.  

His dad let me sit in it, and we even got a ride in the car. It was a life changing moment.

About a week later I was walking back home from the bus stop and noticed a guy in his front drive with a car on a jack. The car was a 308 GTSi and it had a flat tire. I went over and asked if I could help out. He let me remove a few big nuts while he got the spare out of the front of the car. Together we got the tire back on the car and he asked if I wanted a ride home. It was 1981, I lived in a very safe gated neighborhood, and it was a Ferrari, so of course I said yes. We took the top off the car and drove me to my house, taking the longest route possible. It was the kind of ride you give to a 14-year-old car crazy person. I never got his name but remain forever grateful for the experience, one which changed my life even more than the ride with Tim’s dad.

Back to our Pick of the Day. It is an exact duplicate of the car I changed that tire on, and the car that was my first love in the entire world of cars, a 1981 Ferrari 308 GTSi in Rosso Corsa paint with a tan leather interior.

Now while this may start an argument, I maintain that the Ferrari 308 GTS is the single most important car in the history of the company. I know that sounds crazy, but the 308 made more people aware of the Ferrari brand for the first time than any other single model. Before debuting on Magnum alongside Tom Selleck, many average people were not even aware that Ferrari was a car company. It is the car that kickstarted the company as a desirable and iconic brand to the average American and everything that came afterwards built on that weekly TV appearance.

The 308 GTSi here is described as a two-owner from new example that has covered a total of only 11,654 original documented miles. They add that it has never been in an accident, has a complete service history and its original window sticker, tool roll, and manuals.

This car is the mirror of the car in Magnum, P.I. and looks to be as close you can get to buying a brand new 1981 Ferrari 308 GTSi located in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

I have owned a 308 GTS and still feel a bit like an idiot for selling it. At 6’4” tall, I just did not fit comfortably in the car, even after having it modified in the same way that the film crew modified the car for Tom Selleck. I should have just driven it with the top off all the time like he did and kept it. Oh well, maybe I’ll get another.

The downside of selling mine is that the prices have gone up on the 308 series cars, though not as much as Porsche 911s of the same era. At the asking price of $89,000 I honestly feel that this car is a solid and market correct opportunity. Yes, it has the wrong shift knob and the shift lever has been extended. I would just spend the $500 dollars to return it back to original and not be worried about it.

People who claim to be Ferrari experts will tell you that the original 2-valve injected 308 GTSi is slow. Seriously?!? Any car of this era is slow when compared to practically any modern car, including a V6 Toyota Camry. You buy a car like this because of what it is and not what it isn’t. What this 308 represents is the car that the rest of the brand has been built on. It is a stylish, iconic, and fun car to drive and much more exclusive and interesting than, say, a Porsche 911SC. Magnum drove one on his adventures and the opportunity to capture that era of the 1980s happens every time you drive this car. This is a truly amazing sounding example and well worth a look.

Yes the 308 GTS is still my favorite car. I definitely need another.

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

The Toyota Camry became “America’s favorite sedan” a long time ago, much to the chagrin of automotive patriots from North America. The Camry continues to play that role despite the proliferation of SUVs doing their darndest to unseat this perennial. While many Detroit companies seem to have phased out most of their competing sedans, the Camry continues to plug along.

So how well does the Camry plug along? The ClassicCars.com Journal staff tested a 2023 Camry SE Hybrid Nightshade sedan to observe the state-of-the-art of suburban transportation.

Overview

Those days of Camry DX, LE, and SE are long-gone. Today we have thirteen Camry models. They start with the $26,320 Camry LE and then continue with the following:

• $28,655 LE Hybrid
• $27,860 SE
• $28,860 SE Nightshade
• $30,190 SE Hybrid
• $31,190 SE Hybrid Nightshade
• $31,070 XLE
• $33,545 XLE Hybrid
• $36,195 XLE V6
• $31,620 XSE
• $34,095 XSE Hybrid
• $36,745 XSE V6
•  $33,385 TRD

Exterior

When the current-generation Camry debuted for 2018, it was somewhat of a revelation because Camrys of the past had been so deliberately milquetoast. Though styling is obviously in the eye of the beholder, the new Camry certainly came off appearing much sportier than it had done in the past. Within the Camry series, different trim levels may feature different styling (especially up front), with some appearing more polarizing than others. In the case of our Camry SE Hybrid Nightshade, it features a “black front grille with sport mesh insert” complemented by black side mirrors, window trim, and badging. Nineteen-inch bronze alloy wheels set it off the Reservoir Blue nicely. Other trim levels feature more of a massive “chin” that the SE, XSE, and TRD manage to avoid. Perhaps the typical Camry target market will not care, but we may have a different opinion: the schnoz can also be polarizing depending on trim level, with some invoking the look that Acura was criticized for a decade ago.

Drivetrain

Camry hybrids are powered by a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force DOHC four-cylinder with dual variable valve timing that offers 176 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. With assistance from a 650V hybrid system, combined horsepower becomes 208. Considering today’s Camry serves a purpose no different than a four-door Plymouth Valiant from several generations ago, the performance of the Camry is somewhat of a revelation: 0-60 in the low sevens and quarter-mile ETs in under 16 seconds. To contrast, a Valiant with the Slant Six would get to 60 in almost the same time as the Camry’s ET. The performance available from your average, contemporary four-door sedan (hybrid or otherwise) is quite astounding though, according to the buff books, the Camry hybrid isn’t as hot as other vehicles in its class. Nonetheless, it doesn’t suffer because of it.

Economy

Even though this isn’t a Prius, the Camry hybrid may appear to be a more impressive vehicle, all things being equal. The amount of comfort available due to its size belies the fact that it’s federally rated at 44 mpg city/47 highway/46 combined. While that’s about 10 mpg less than the Prius, the Camry is much more car without compromise. We ourselves achieved 45 mpg in mixed driving. And remember that Valiant? It could only achieve half the mpg at best. For those stats alone, we absolutely adore the Camry and the technology that has driven it to this point.

Interior

Our SE Hybrid Nightshade was furnished with Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats with fabric inserts. It’s a durable imitation leather that appears across the Toyota spectrum, but it lacks a luxurious look and feel. On the SE Hybrid Nightshade, the driver-side seat is power-operated and includes lumbar support; the passenger makes do with manual controls that is just fine with us. Otherwise, our Camry came with most of the conveniences you’d expect in a modern sedan, such as remote keyless entry system, push-button start, USB-C port, dual-zone climate control and, typical for modern cars, a busy, 4.2-inch multi-function display between the speedometer and tachometer. We do like the knobs used for volume and tuning and, of course, if you prefer buttons, you have the steering wheel to adjust volume and a whole bunch of other things. The infotainment system is straightforward and not too difficult to pair with your phone, especially for those adept at setting the clock on a VCR.

Drive

Driving the Camry SE Hybrid Nightshade is a benign experience. It does everything you demand and does it while serving up stellar fuel economy. If the Camry was a rental car, there would be no doubt it would be the best rental car in the world. You can depend on its competency like no other — something we wish we could say about most things in life. You need to make a fast turn? The Camry will do it with aplomb. The experience won’t be like a Supra’s but, as a testament to modern transportation devices, the Camry will handle what you put it up against. It’s an out of sight/out of mind experience, like an extension of your being combined with reliability that has been a Camry trademark since it unseated the Ford Taurus as America’s favorite sedan (though there’s been that pesky Honda Accord on occasion). In some ways, the Camry is the anti-SUV because it offers all the spaciousness and utility most need while offering enough interior and ride comfort so you can enjoy your podcast with a minimum of fuss. Like many modern cars, there are several gimmicky driving modes: Normal, Sport, Eco, and EV. Each setting offers a selection of shift points and electric motor cut-offs that will affect acceleration and economy. Considering the more economy-minded settings can be lazy in hilly country, we can appreciate this feature in opportune moments. However, it would not surprise us that thx x e average Camry drive keeps it on one setting and has forgotten about it.

Conclusion

The 2023 Toyota Camry SE Hybrid Nightshade reminds me of how one magazine characterized the Camaro in 1968: it tries to be all things to all people. The Camaro was criticized because, while it aimed to please a large segment of the population, it seemed to excel at nothing because it wasn’t focused. In comparison, the Camry doesn’t suffer from trying too hard. On the contrary, it seems more adept at checking all the boxes and being competent at everything — not quite the teacher’s pet, but one that will always be in the teacher’s good graces if given the occasional apple. For this, we have great respect for the Camry SE Hybrid Nightshade, as we have no bones to pick with its efficiency. However, as folks who aren’t quite the Camry’s target market, we are left wanting more: we would love better styling, sharper handling, a more upscale interior (which can be faked quite easily, as Mazda has proven) and, perhaps, better acceleration to be more competitive with other hybrids in the market (though the seat of our collective pants has no issues). None of these things truly matter at this point considering Toyota is preparing the next-generation Camry for 2024. If the latest offerings from Toyota are any hint, such as the GR Corolla, GR86 coupe, or even the I-hate-to-say-it-but-the-new-Prius-is-almost-stunning Prius, we may even be excited with what Mr. and Mrs. America will be able to drive next.

One of the most coveted of all fifth-generation Corvettes was the high-performance Z06 model. Here’s a chance at owning one in a stealthy black finish with only 75,000 miles on the odometer.

The Pick of the Day is a 2003 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Spokane, Washington. (Click the link to view the listing)

“You are viewing a very nice Z06 that is an excellent driver,” the listing begins. “The car has 75k well cared-for miles and [I have] owned for the last three years. Runs and drives like new.”

The fifth-generation Corvette sport car initially came to market for the 1997 model year using all-new exterior styling on the General Motors Y-body platform. In the interest of optimizing strength while minimizing weight, most of the body was assembled from a type of fiberglass called sheet molded composite (SMC).

A high-performance C5 Corvette was introduced in 2001 and named the Z06. The heart this beast was its LS6 motor, which was essentially a tuned 5.7-liter LS1. Output was initially rated at 385 horsepower and was soon ramped up to 405 horsepower starting in 2002. The only available transmission for the Z06 was a six-speed manual throughout the production run.

There are a few visual things that make the Z06 stand out from other Corvettes. One is the fixed-roof coupe (FRC) body style which is a contrast to the traditional glass hatchback. Another noteworthy design cue is the brake ducts which are just forward of the rear wheel on either side.

The interior cockpit of this ‘vette has an eye-catching two-tone red and black leather motif. The seller states that a short shifter has been added but the rest appears factory-original. The digital odometer shows just 75,343 miles on this 20-year-old car, and the listing doesn’t discuss much about maintenance history other than the fact that the Bridgestone Potenza tires are newer.

The 405-horsepower version of the Z06 achieved zero-to-60 acceleration in 3.9 seconds and it was recorded as completing a quarter-mile drag race in 11.9 seconds. Those are significant numbers for any performance car – and that is precisely why so many Z5 Z06 models were heavily tracked and abused over the years. This black beauty remains unmodified and was clearly enthusiast-owned.

“A very nice car to drive and enjoy. Lots of performance at an affordable price,” the listing concludes.

The asking price is $28,500 for this special C5.

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

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1955 Chevrolet Nomad.  

When General Motors reworked its Chevrolet lineup in favor of a “shoebox” style layout by flattening the exterior body panels after model year 1954, it set a precedent in automotive design that remains even today.

The 1955 Nomad up for auction shows the distinct direction that was taken. Best of all, it comes with a drivetrain that was retrofitted from C4 Corvette such as a small-block 350cid V8, a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel disc brakes. This Ruby Red Nomad has a Pearl White roof, a tan vinyl interior, and a clear Missouri title.

The Nomad nameplate was used for a couple of decades and referred to a station wagon variant of the Bel Air and the Impala models. All 1955 through 1957 Chevrolets have gone on to become very collectible in the marketplace, and the Nomad is no exception. It was produced as a two-door station wagon on the General Motors A-body platform alongside the Pontiac Safari, and it stickered at $2,571 for the inaugural 1955 model year.

This first-year Nomad went through a frame-off restoration by a Chevrolet Camaro specialty facility in California wherein it received a respray in Ruby Red with a Pearl White roof. The exterior look was completed via a set of 18-inch Tyfun wheels wrapped in staggered Nexen tires sized 245/40 up front and 255/35 in the rear.

True to its station wagon body style, the Nomad delivered on utility. Aside from the two rows of bench seats upholstered in two-tone tan and ivory vinyl, the rear cargo area offers plenty of space for belongings and the carpet has been embossed with a Chevrolet bowtie logo.

The magic of this wagon happens underneath its hood: In place of the Nomad’s original 265cid V8 lives a C4 Corvette-sourced 350cid V8. The motor came from a 1987 Corvette and has been upgraded with a Mattson’s radiator, a stainless-steel exhaust system, and a stainless-steel 20-gallon fuel tank. The seller says that maintenance has been kept up over the years.

Similar restomod treatment happens underneath the body where underpinnings both front and rear come from a Corvette along with four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, Bilstein front shock absorbers, and power steering.

The already-popular Nomad has been made even better in this custom hot rod, thanks to Corvette running gear, disc brakes, and a reupholstered interior. Now is your chance to make a move and place a bid!

The auction for this 1955 Chevrolet Nomad ends on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

The Jeep brand, celebrating more than eight decades of freedom, adventure, passion and authenticity, has again been named as America’s most patriotic brand. For the 22nd year in a row, the Jeep brand is America’s most patriotic*, according to Brand Keys Most Patriotic Brands survey. Consumers who were surveyed assessed brands that best embody the value of patriotism in 2023.

The Jeep brand and the USO also announced as part of its Fourth of July celebrations that their enduring partnership, marking 15 years, has been renewed.

“Over the years, through many campaigns, sponsorships, events and in-kind donations of vehicles and other support, our partnership with the USO mission has helped make it possible to keep service members connected to family, home and country,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president, Jeep brand North America. “And to celebrate July 4th, we wanted to do something extra for our military members by increasing the brand’s military discount for 10 days, from July 1 through July 10, to $2,000.

“The Jeep brand’s origins date back to 1941 with the birth of an iconic 4×4-capable vehicle that was requested specifically by the U.S. Army. Since that time, the Jeep brand has become synonymous around the world for outdoor adventure and freedom. Being recognized as America’s most patriotic brand for the past 22 years is a testament to our passionate Jeep community and to all those who protect America’s independence,” Morrison said.

Through the Jeep brand’s Military Incentive Program, select military personnel are eligible for military bonus cash to use toward select 2023 vehicles. Active, active reserve, retired military, retired military reserve, 100% disabled veteran and honorably discharged veterans, within 12 months of discharge date, are eligible under the program. The offer applies to purchases and leases on a range of 2023 Jeep brand vehicles. 
  
As a tribute to U.S. military members, the Jeep brand also offers a military-themed, special limited-edition Freedom package for the 2023 Gladiator and Wrangler, featuring military-themed exterior and interior design cues. The 2023 Jeep Freedom Edition (limited quantities) pays tribute to those who serve in the U.S. military. With unique military-themed decals and badges and impressive features for the road and trail, it honors the perseverance of brave service members. The Jeep brand will make a $250 donation to military charities with every Freedom edition sold. “Since 1941” is a badge of honor proudly displayed on all Jeep brand vehicles, recognizing the Jeep brand’s long-standing military heritage and legendary 4×4 capability leadership for more than 80 years.
  
Another reward for being a Jeep 4×4 owner is the Jeep Wave, a premium owner loyalty and customer care program that is available to the entire Jeep 4×4 lineup, which is filled with benefits and exclusive benefits to deliver Jeep vehicle owners the utmost care and dedicated 24/7 support. 
  
The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a broad portfolio of vehicles, including Jeep Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, three-row Grand Cherokee L, Grand Cherokee 4xe, Renegade, Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe, as well as the premium extension of the Jeep brand with the all-new Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. 
  
Fans can visit the Jeep Store by Amazon for Jeep merchandise. 

*Based on Brand Keys 2003-2024 Most Patriotic Brands Survey 

When Lotus and General Motors put their engineering teams together in the late 1980s, monster muscle machines were born.

The Pick of the Day is a low-mileage 1991 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by Precious Metal Classic Cars in Elkhart, Indiana. (Click the link to view the listing)

“Fully documented, collector-grade ZR-1 survivor that’s logged just 8,979 miles,” the listing states.

When it launched in 1984, the C4 Corvette was the first to receive engineering advancements like a “uniframe” chassis, molded plastic bumpers, a glass hatchback, and a liquid crystal instrument cluster. Big news soon arrived in 1986 when General Motors acquired Group Lotus and got to work building a hopped-up version of the Corvette. Lotus was a revered name in motorsports known for its lightweight, high-performance sports cars.

Tasked with building the ultimate performance-tuned C4, Lotus cooked up the “LT5” 5.7-liter engine using an aluminum black, quad camshafts, 32 valves, and a unique air management system. This 375-horsepower V8 was the key ingredient in the ZR-1 Corvette’s magic, but the package didn’t stop there: Additional treatment included a standard Bosch anti-lock braking system, a Bilstein “FX3” suspension, and wider tires compared to the standard Corvette. Torque was fed rearward through a ZF six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip rear end.

This exceptionally low-mileage black ZR-1 looks showroom fresh both inside and out. The engine received a tune-up and new injectors, so the seller states that it is ready for the road. “This great example of the 1991 ZR-1 comes completely serviced. With its all-original appearance and even wearing its original rubber, you’ll be ready for the field at Bloomington earning a reward with the National Corvette Restorers Society.”

Included in the listing’s photo gallery are over 80 detailed photos such as a shot of the center console placard that denotes the engine’s horsepower and torque ratings. The window sticker shows an original retail price of $65,338 and delivery to DuTeau Chevrolet in Lincoln, Nebraska. Roughly half of that price ($31,583) was for the ZR-1 package alone. Hard to believe you could nearly buy two base Corvettes for the price of one ZR-1.

Incidentally, General Motors sold off its stake in Group Lotus in 1993 so this car was part of a short-lived partnership. There certainly can’t be very many unmodified ZR-1s left in existence, let alone with fewer than 10,000 miles on the odometer.

“If you’re in the market for one of the finest examples of a very desirable C4 Corvette in a stunning color, your car has arrived,” the seller states. The asking price is $46,500 for this ZR-1, which includes collector-grade swag like a VHS tape, a tire gauge, books, and other memorabilia.

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

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1973 Ford Mustang.

Now I know that some of you know me and the cars I like, so you may be surprised that I picked a 1973 Mustang. Well I honestly like the luxury Mustang and have ever since seeing Diamonds are Forever. Sure, that was a Mach 1 but these are nice driving cars and offer plenty of power, and I honestly think that the styling has really aged well. In addition these are the most comfortable to drive classic Mustangs.

The seller offering this car up for auction describes it as a Mustang that has only covered 19,321 original miles and has been with the current owner for 24 years. It is equipped with its reportedly original 302cid V8 and three-speed automatic transmission.

Features include power steering, power front disc brakes, bucket seats, a center console, and air conditioning. Finished in Bright Red and equipped with a white vinyl top over a white vinyl interior, this Mustang comes on consignment from the selling dealer with a clear title.

The seller describes the paint as having been refinished in the original color of Bright Red (code 2B) in the late 1990s. Features on this Mustang include a color-keyed urethane front bumper, a black grille insert, side impact moldings, wheel well and rocker moldings, color-keyed sport mirror housings with a manual driver-side remote, a white vinyl top, a chrome rear bumper, and a black taillight panel insert.

The contrast that the interior offers agains the red paint is simply awesome. The front bucket seats and the rear seat are upholstered in white vinyl.

Features include power steering, manual windows, the great looking chrome center console-mounted automatic transmission shifter, air conditioning, white door panels and trim, and a black dashboard. The selling dealer states that the Kenwood AM/FM/cassette stereo was purchased new in 2010 and installing it did not require modifications to the dashboard.

These cars still trail the 1964 1/2-1970 Mustangs, and as a result offer the last great value in a classic Mustang. Having personally driven many Mustangs, from a 1965 GT350 to a 1973 Mach 1 and everything in between, these are enjoyable and comfortable cars that are fast enough to be fun. I mean james Bond drove a mach 1 so why not give this car a try.

The online auction for this 1973 Ford Mustang ends on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at 1:15 p.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

The 911 Classic Club Coupe, sold during the Broad Arrow auction celebrating 75 years of Porsche sports cars at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta, has been delivered to its new owner. Comedian and collector Jerry Seinfeld personally took possession of the one-off creation based on a 911 Carrera (996 generation) during the annual Porsche Parade being held by the club in Palm Springs, California.

The 911 Classic Club Coupe is a one-of-one Sonderwunsch (special wishes) project completed by Porsche Classic in collaboration with the Porsche Club of America (PCA). That this is a unique car will not surprise anyone who sees it, but a “No. 001/001” badge on the dashboard underscores its scarcity. A ducktail spoiler reminiscent of the 1972 911 Carrera RS 2.7, a double-bubble roof, 18-inch forged aluminum Fuchs wheels and unique paint combine to create a striking resemblance to the Type 997 911 Sport Classic. Those looks are only part of the story.

Based on a 1998 911 Carrera, the chassis, brakes and engine in this sports car are taken from the 996.2 911 GT3, the first such model homologated for sale in the U.S. Accordingly, the naturally aspirated 3.6-liter flat-six generates 381 horsepower. The donor car, which PCA Executive Director Vu Nguyen found in a state of neglect in Colombia, Virginia, traveled to the Porsche Classic workshop near the main plant in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen where it was originally built. There, it went through a complete restoration including total disassembly, and strengthening of the body-in-white using both original and newly developed parts.

In January 1989 the world of luxury cars was forever changed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit when Lexus launched the LS400. For the very first time a Japanese company aimed a head on assault not at American luxury brands but on the Mercedes and BMW cars from Germany, which many people considered the best in the world. The car was not just as good as the German competition, however in many ways was better than the Mercedes S class and BMW 7 series. To sweeten the deal for customers the LS400, even when fully optioned, was less expensive and more reliable than its German competition. 

How Toyota did this with their new car brand was to literally start from scratch and develop a car with no budget and not based on any car they had ever built. The company employed a staggeringly large team of 60 designers, 1,400 engineers in 24 teams, 2,300 technicians and over 200 support workers to develop the LS400. The cost for the project was an estimated $1 billion.

In addition, another Toyota masterstroke was to sell the new LS400 at Lexus-only dealerships. These were set up to offer their customers the best possible experience both in buying their cars and in the service department as well. What best illustrates this is when in December 1989, shortly after the car’s launch, Lexus ordered a voluntary recall of the 8,000 LS models they had sold. This was based solely upon two customer complaints concerning defective wiring and an overheated brake light assembly. All vehicles were serviced within 20 days, and the incident set the stage for what customers should expect from a top tier automotive brand.

The result was that the car did indeed capture quite a few customers from the German luxury segment, and almost overnight the Lexus LS became the new measuring stick for quality and luxury. In fact, by 1990 the LS400 had outsold the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes S class, and the Jaguar XJ series.

The Pick of the Day is one of these amazing cars for sale on ClassicCars.com, a 1993 Lexus LS400 located in Elkhart, Indiana.

The seller describes this as an excellent two owner LS400 with only 64,000 miles from new. Painted in its original Diamond White tri-coat paint that is said to be in great condition.

They add that the original Tan leather interior is in excellent condition and comes with two sets of factory floormats. This is because when the first owner purchased this Lexus new, they bought a second set of factory floor mats to keep the originals in like-new condition.

The car is powered by its legendary and original Lexus UZ-FE 4.0 liter V8 and backed by its original 4-speed automatic transmission. They state that the engine and transmission perform just as they should and deliver a very effortless driving experience that you would expect from a well-maintained luxury car.

This LS400 is nicely equipped with power steering, power 4-wheel disc brakes, automatic climate control, the gold logo package, power tilt/telescopic steering, factory car phone, dual power mirrors, power windows, power seats, heated seats, rear defrost, cruise control, power sunroof, keyless entry, power door locks, Nakamichi AM/FM stereo w/ cd changer, heater/defrost, and variable speed wipers. 

Finally, this LS400 still retains its original owners guide, inspection certificate, original trunk mounted tool kit, and its original first aid kit.

The LS400 is a car that has been slowly creeping up in value as more collectors rediscover what a landmark car the original LS series was. They literally sent their competition back to the drawing boards to catch up with the LS.

The asking price for this time capsule 1993 Lexus LS400 is only $16,500 and I would expect in to increase in value over the next few years.

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

The unmistakable “blue oval” Ford emblem has graced the nose of hundreds of thousands of Ford pickups over the years. Ford first introduced its scripted logo in 1903, and the design went through eight different subsequent changes. Ford trucks, however, didn’t feature the grille logo until model year 1980, many decades into the company’s existence.

The Pick of the Day is a low-mileage 1981 Ford F-150 pickup listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Closter, New Jersey. (Click the link to view the listing)

“New interior, new paint, wheels, tires, many other new parts,” the listing states. “Runs and drives great.”

Model year 1981 was the second year for the seventh generation for the F-Series. Aside from a more squared body, advancements were made to powertrains and equipment: A diesel engine was introduced for the first time, and the dashboard was revised to incorporate more complete instrumentation. This generation was also the first to wear the blue oval logo on its grille. In today’s case, it’s also spelled out across the hood in bold lettering. Ford made sure that there was no mistaking this truck for a competing brand!

The Powder Blue and White two-tone exterior has a stepside body configuration, and the rally-style wheels with polished trim rings and Goodyear tires provide nice curb appeal. Based on the photos in the listing, the interior of the cargo bed appears just as clean as the rest of the body, so this truck hasn’t been put through very much hauling duty post-restoration. The interior of the cab is trimmed in all-blue with a vinyl bench seat, and audio comes from a modern Sony AM/FM/CD head unit.

Under the hood, this half-ton, two-wheel drive has a 300cid inline-six mated to a three-speed manual transmission. The seller states, “Original miles on drivetrain 60,595. Motor all original, not touched during restoration, but has been serviced with all new belts, hoses, filters, etc.”

Worth noting: Some newer Ford trucks have reverted to not having a blue oval grille emblem. For example, the Raptor (first introduced in 2010) simply has “FORD” spelled out across its front end.

The seller is asking $17,995 or best offer for this clean, low-mileage F-Series.

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