Journal Classic Cars

Movie fans and car fans found a lot of common ground at a recent Barrett-Jackson collector-car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. Specifically, the Stewart A. Berkowitz collection brought in a high volume of noteworthy vehicles from on-screen – like the Flintstones car, a DeLorean, a “Herbie” Volkswagen Beetle, and even a Batmobile. Imagine being able to drive down the street feeling like a superhero… or being able to drive around a park full of dinosaurs.

The Ford Explorer and the movie “Jurassic Park” were both memorable home runs in pop culture in the 1990s. “Jurassic Park” hit the theaters on June 11, 1993 and went on to gross $914 million during its initial theatrical run alone. In fact, until “Titanic” came along four years later in 1997, it was the highest-grossing film of all time. Similarly, the first-generation Explorer (produced from 1991 through 1994) it played a huge influence on the boom of sport-utility vehicles. Ford sold over 300,000 units per year, and the Explorer was (and still is, today) an undisputed success.

It was my pleasure to kick the Goodyear Wrangler white-letter tires of a unique re-creation of one of the iconic tour vehicles from the original “Jurassic Park” movie. Themed in appropriate red, green and yellow via a custom wrap, it started life as a stock 1993 Explorer XLT four-wheel drive four-door. Based on what we know about the build, the vehicle was originally white before receiving its custom treatment. The Explorer also received yellow-finished 15-inch wheels, a front brush guard, prop fog lamps, and yellow bumpers.

One thing that did not get modified was the engine: power still came from the factory-installed Cologne 4.0-liter V6 that was rated at 160 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission and a manual-shifting dual-range transfer case sent power to all four wheels. The interior was appointed with blue cloth upholstery, power windows, a center console, and – in proper 1990s fashion – an AM/FM radio with a cassette player.

This eye-catching Ford Explorer blurred the lines behind movie magic and driveway reality. We are excited to see what other kinds of “themed” vehicles pop up next at the upcoming Barrett-Jackson auction which will take place October 15-18 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Join us for the fun, because the variety of vehicles on display (and up for grabs) will surprise you.

Just watch out for any T. rex sightings!

Stay tuned to the ClassicCars TV YouTube Channel for more feature stories from Barrett-Jackson.

It’s no secret that American culture is one of our country’s great exports. People in faraway lands enjoy our music, fashion, and TV shows. As shown by our Pick of the Day, a 1949 Buick Super Estate Wagon, American cars are also popular in other parts of the world, which explains why this woodie is listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Jörlanda, Sweden.

If you think of California when you read the term “woodie,” that’s completely natural. A wagon like this fits that scene, even if it never carries a surfboard. But in 2008, someone in Sweden just had to have this big piece of rolling Americana, purchased it, and had it flown overseas. The original maple and northern elm wood trim around the windows and on the rear end was in bad shape, so an expert in restoring wood boats (NOT Ikea furniture) was called in to replace it. The glossy finish contrasts nicely with the satin clearcoat over the light blue paint that was laid down in 2015. According to the selling dealer, most of the chrome trim is new or has been professionally polished.

There’s more blue inside the cabin. Two shades of it, actually: light blue on the dash and door panels, and dark blue upholstery.

Between the ventiports on the front fenders is the original 248ci “Fireball” straight-eight, which is connected to a Carter two-barrel carburetor and Dynaflow automatic. The entire electrical system was upgraded to a 12-volt setup.

This 1949 Buick Super Estate Wagon is a long way from home. You can bring it back for $49,500 (OBO)—perhaps after spending a summer vacation (and maybe some meatballs) in Sweden.

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

With subtle fanfare and a stiff upper lip, Bentley has unveiled a redesign of its Bentley Wings emblem. The new emblem—the fifth iteration of the “Winged B”—is being introduced along with a concept car to be revealed on July 8, 2025, coinciding with the opening of a new Design Studio in Crewe.

Logo redesigns can be a risky proposition, especially when it comes to their familiarity with the public. The current redesign has been created in-house by Bentley’s own design team, following a grand tradition that began in 1919 by Sir F. Gordon Crosby (alright, he was never knighted, what?). Subsequent redesigns have been implemented in 1931, the 1990s, and 2002, all maintaining the same charm. Says Bentley, “Crafted with confidence, care and creativity, the new emblem is symbolic of an exciting future” for the automaker. Note the sleeker design with the wings’ feathers dramatically refined with diamond patterns. The B in the center of the logo has been subtly redesigned in a manner so that it can stand alone on its own. It gives the impression that it could stand alone as the center jewel of a watch.

“If a luxury brand is the product of the stories it has created, then its emblem is its signature. In more than a century of history, this is only the fourth evolution of Bentley’s iconic Winged B, and redesigning it was a formidable task for which we’ve taken great care,” says Director of Design Robin Page. “In an era of ever-increasing complexity and fidelity from digitalisation, an exercise of simplification and refinement is a modern necessity—and so the new emblem is cleaner, sharper and more impactful than its predecessor. The new Winged B—and the concept car that introduces it—both symbolise a powerful, exciting future for this company and its exceptional, handcrafted products.”

The car that it’s attached to is expected to herald the beginning of a new era of Bentley design language. Though strictly a concept car, with no plans for production, the vehicle is expected to hint what Page and his team plan for future products while using inspiration from the past. The queue to view the new vehicle on July 8^th forms at www.bentleymedia.com.

The Petersen Automotive Museum and the new ownership group for Willow Springs International Raceway recently announced an exciting partnership that will integrate one of the world’s preeminent automotive museums with the historic Southern California track.

The Petersen Automotive Museum will play a key role in elevating Willow Springs as a cultural and historical landmark through the addition of the Petersen Pavilion, an outpost of the Los Angeles institution.

“As one of the most iconic racetracks in America, Willow Springs is an ideal place to celebrate the passion, heritage and innovation that define the automotive world,” said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “We look forward to bringing our expertise in storytelling and curation to create an environment where enthusiasts can engage with automotive culture in a dynamic and meaningful way.”

Willow Springs was purchased in April by an affiliate of CrossHarbor Capital Partners in collaboration with Singer Vehicle Design. The new ownership group is focused on preserving the facility’s rich history while making significant investments to establish it as the premier venue for automotive and motorsport enthusiasts.

“The Petersen has helped set the bar for automotive museums around the world, and it is the perfect partner to help us engage with the vibrant history and future of automotive culture,” said Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners. “Stunning exhibitions and immersive storytelling are at the heart of what the Petersen does, and the showcase will be a tremendous asset as we reimagine Willow Springs Raceway.”

Maintaining public access is a key element of Willow Springs’ success, and the raceway will continue to host both public and private events. The Petersen Automotive Museum joins a growing list of industry experts who will help upgrade and improve the track experience. Former Formula 1 driver, Le Mans winner, and track designer Alex Wurz, head of Wurz Design, will enhance existing track design and safety, while Speedway Motorsports’ subsidiary Sonoma Raceway brings years of expertise in delivering premier on-track experiences to oversee track operations.

These days, most people think of the word “hybrid” as a reference to vehicles that combine gasoline power with electric power. But since that word is defined as a combination or mixture of any two different things, you could technically call a Ford Ranchero a hybrid of a car and a truck.

Now, if only it had the fuel economy of a Prius.

Featured on AutoHunter is this 1965 Ford Falcon Ranchero. The coupe-utility is being sold by a dealer in Anderson, California, and the auction will end Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 12:15 p.m. PDT.

When compared to the first Ranchero (which came out in 1957), the 1960-through-1965 models were significantly downsized. Ford based the model on its two-door Falcon sedan delivery. In the interest of economy, the base engine at the time was a miserly 144ci inline-six (maybe it wasn’t so far away from Prius fuel-efficiency after all?). Ford advertising materials said, “Just one small thing keeps this pickup out of the luxury class: Low price!”

This Ranchero comes from the last year of its generation and, according to the AutoHunter listing, it went through a complete mechanical restoration under current ownership. The repainted turquoise exterior is eye-catching, and the 15-inch Cragar S/S chrome wheels are an era-correct upgrade for the mini-truck. Inspired by the space race at the time, the Ranchero’s taillight design was inspired by jet afterburners.

The interior is where the vehicle sets itself apart even more: Black vinyl bucket seats offer comfy seating for two, and upgrades include a custom center console, air conditioning, power steering, a tilt steering column, a Grant steering wheel and a Bluetooth-compatible retro-look sound system.

Power is generated by a 302ci V8 mated to a floor-shifted C4 three-speed automatic transmission. The listing says that the engine and transmission have both been rebuilt, and performance features include an Edelbrock 650cfm four-barrel carburetor, an Edelbrock intake manifold, an aluminum radiator, a Pertronix ignition and a Borgeson steering box. Lastly, Wilwood disc brakes and a dual exhaust system were added.

The Ranchero’s six-foot bed was rated at a payload of 800 pounds, giving it a slight advantage (to the tune of 100 pounds) over its closest competitor, the Chevrolet El Camino. Ford also touted the Ranchero’s low loading height, “instant-lock” tailgate, 31 cubic feet of load space, bolted-on fenders and “Diamond Lustre” finish. At $1,938 for the base model, it was America’s lowest-priced pickup in 1965.

Just be careful about calling it a hybrid, especially if you’re trying to get access to the carpool lanes.

The auction for this 1965 Ford Falcon Ranchero ends Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 12:15 p.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

There’s a saying that amuses me: “There’s nothing more expensive than a cheap Mercedes.” That kind of math applies to Jay Leno‘s 1974 Triumph TR6. The previous owner gave it to him, but Leno ended up paying a price for it anyway because he had it cosmetically and mechanically restored.

As Leno’s master mechanic George Swift explains, the 2.5-liter straight-six engine had burnt valves as well as a burnt piston. Luckily, Moss Motors, which sells parts for a variety of classic British cars, had the hardware Swift needed to rebuild the I6. He ultimately replaced the front disc and rear drum brakes, and the engine and transmission mounts too. Unfortunately, Swift and Leno realized in hindsight that they should have opted for a four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive instead of the regular four-speed.

According to Leno, the exterior was refinished in Tahiti Blue, a bright shade that gives the little English roadster a larger presence on the road. During the restoration process, Leno made the wise decision to have the original bumper (which had bulky black rubber bumper guards on it) swapped out for a simpler all-chrome unit.

The new upholstery is all-black, which makes the wood dash fascia all the more noticeable.

Of course, as a seasoned expert, Leno is aware he probably put more money into this Triumph than it is worth. He’s okay with that as he enjoys how vintage the TR6 feels, the “lusty” performance of its big six, and the way 40 mph in it seems like 100. For those reasons and more, Leno is never going to sell his TR6. How could he? He never bought it in the first place.

Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better way to soak in the sunshine than behind the wheel of a cool 1970s convertible.

This was a decade of bold contrasts and automotive flair. In the early ’70s, American streets thundered with the power of convertible muscle cars that turned every stoplight into a starting line. As the decade wore on, style began to shift and in came smooth cruising. Luxury convertibles redefined cool with their expansive hoods and plush interiors, turning every drive into a slow- motion red-carpet moment.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Europe brought its own flavor to the open-air scene. Compact, spirited and undeniably stylish, European convertibles offered a zesty take on summer freedom. Whether you prefer Detroit steel or a European drop-top, the ’70s had a convertible for every kind of vibe, and they’re still perfect for catching rays and turning heads today. Check out this gallery featuring some of the highest-ranking convertibles that have crossed the Barrett-Jackson block over the last year.

MAIN PHOTO: 1971 PLYMOUTH ’CUDA CONVERTIBLE
SOLD! $214,500
2025 SCOTTSDALE AUCTION
One of 87 produced. Restored by Dave Dudek. Powered by its original engine and date-code-correct transmission. Includes Build Sheet and certified by Wise Validation Report.

1970 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE CUSTOM CONVERTIBLE
SOLD! $291,500
2025 SCOTTSDALE AUCTION
Fresh, professional build with 300 test miles. Powered by a Chevrolet LT4 supercharged V8 engine and a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission. Equipped with a Roadster Shop chassis, 3-inch stainless-steel exhaust, Penske double-adjustable shocks and a custom leather interior.

1970 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS L34 CONVERTIBLE
SOLD! $198,000
2025 PALM BEACH AUCTION
Certified by Chevelle expert Chris White. Comes with the original Build Sheet. Powered by the original
matching-numbers 396/350hp V8 engine and 4-speed manual transmission. From the MS CLASSIC CARS Collection.

1970 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS 396 CONVERTIBLE
SOLD! $126,500
2024 SCOTTSDALE FALL AUCTION
Powered by an L78 396/375 engine mated to a Muncie M21 close-ratio 4-speed transmission, with a 3.55 12-bolt posi-traction rear axle.

1970 BUICK GS 455 STAGE 1 CONVERTIBLE
SOLD! $110,000
2025 PALM BEACH AUCTION
One of 232 for the model year. Equipped with a matching-numbers 455ci V8 engine and automatic
transmission, factory air conditioning and bucket seats, as well as power steering, brakes, windows and top. From the Cars of Dreams Collection.

1970 OLDSMOBILE 442 CONVERTIBLE
SOLD! $110,000
2025 PALM BEACH AUCTION
Powered by its matching-numbers 455/365hp engine and original Turbo 400 automatic transmission with a 3.23 ratio posi-traction rear. Features factory air, power accessories, W25 option and more. Documented with two original Build Sheets.

1971 MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL ROADSTER
SOLD! $176,000
2025 SCOTTSDALE AUCTION
Extensive rotisserie restoration. Powered by a M130 2.8-liter inline-6 engine paired with an upgraded ZF 6-speed manual transmission. Finished in a black exterior over a red leather interior.

This article was originally published on Barrett-Jackson.com.

Featured on AutoHunter is this restored and lifted 1977 Ford F-150 4X4, which is powered by an upgraded 400ci V8 mated to a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Finished in Candyapple Red over a new red cloth and vinyl interior, this “Dentside” Ford pickup is now offered by the selling dealer in Oregon with a Deluxe Marti Report and clear title.

The body was recently repainted in this truck’s original color of Candyapple Red, which is accented with pinstriping on the bedsides and tailgate. Exterior features include a chrome front bumper, chrome mirror housings, bedliner, diamond-plate rear bumper, and new exhaust system with dual outlets.

This F-150 Regular Cab rides down the road or trail on a set of a 15-inch steel wheels equipped with manual locking front hubs and new 31- x 10.5-inch Dextero All Terrain radial tires.

The cabin is furnished with a new interior that includes a red cloth and vinyl bench seat, and black and red door panels. Other features include power steering, column-mounted automatic shifter, floor-mounted transfer case shifter, air conditioning, and Pioneer AM/FM/Bluetooth head unit.

Instrumentation consists of an 85-mph speedometer and gauges for the oil pressure, fuel level, alternator, and temperature. The odometer shows 28,408 miles, but the title for this truck shows it’s mileage-exempt.

Under the hood, the original 351ci V8 has been replaced with a 400, which is equipped with a four-barrel carburetor and aluminum radiator. The original four-speed manual gearbox has also been replaced with a three-speed automatic transmission. A dual-range transfer case sends power to all four wheels.

A lift kit makes this four-wheel-drive pickup more capable off-road; Monroe shocks soak up the bumps along the way. Power front disc brakes keep this truck from bumping into things.

If you want to take this handsome, modified 1977 Ford F-150 4X4 on a summer road trip or to your favorite off-highway vehicle park, bid on it now. The auction ends on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. (PDT).

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery

When we think of the popular cars that we enjoy as classic car enthusiasts, there usually is a corporate twin to choose from—witness the Mercury Cougar and Pontiac Firebird. However, in the 1960s, Dodge did not have an equal to the Plymouth Barracuda. Instead, Dodge had several sporty Darts to play the role. Our Pick of the Day is one of those cars: a 1969 Dodge Dart GTS hardtop. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Volo, Illinois.

When the Barracuda was first introduced in 1964, most of its Valiant-based equipment list was shared with the Dodge Dart. The Dart was never offered as a fastback, but every other typical body style was available, from sedans to bucket-seat hardtops, with engines up to the 273. When the Barracuda was redesigned for 1967, the Dart followed suit, but it still lacked the availability of a fastback, and the two-door hardtop lacked the specialty-car look of its Plymouth brethren.

However, 1967 marked an uptick in pony car power: the Mustang gained a 390, and a 396 was added to the Camaro’s option list several months into production. Over at Highland Park, the Dodge Dart and Plymouth Barracuda featured a new 383 big-block. The Dart with the 383 was only available on the Dart GT hardtop and convertible, and the addition of the big-block changed it to the Dart GTS (GT Sport).

The GTS was carried over into 1968 as a full-fledged performance model, perfect for introducing Chrysler’s new small-block performance V8 measuring 340ci. Though rated at 275 horsepower, this little engine developed a giant-killer reputation. Other manufacturers building compacts with engines of comparable size could not compete with the 340 Mopars out of the showroom.

The GTS featured a unique grille applique, hood with simulated intake ports, dual exhaust tips, unique full-length side trim (or choose a Bumblebee stripe or no stripe), GTS badges on all four sides, wide-tread 14-inch tires, heavy-duty suspension, and more. Optional was the 383, which had gained 20 horsepower for an even 300.

For 1969, the GTS was refined with the typical model year changes. The grille was redesigned, now a black stamped aluminum piece divided horizontally by argent paint, plus new rectangular parking lights. The longitudinal stripe that was standard on the ’68 was replaced, making the redesigned Bumblebee stripe standard (and, of course, it could be deleted). The simulated intakes on the hood were also restyled. The 340 remained unchanged (aside from the camshaft for the four-speed, which now was shared with automatics), while the 383 gained another 30 horsepower. Additionally, a 440 Magnum debuted midyear. Overall, while the Dart GTS lacked the specialty-car styling of the Barracuda and was not considered a member of the pony car fraternity, the Dart’s bones were identical.

This 1969 Dodge Dart GTS hardtop is documented with the original fender tag, build sheet and window sticker, and features the spunky 340 backed by TorqueFlite automatic. What stands out with this one is the “F6” Bright Green metallic paint, a color that was announced in December 1968. “Believed to be original paint!” says the seller. “Overall, it shows great. It [also] has original glass including windshield, which is a good indicator of low miles,” in this case, 44,820. “The interior is said to be all-original and in outstanding condition,” adds the seller. Features include power steering, front disc brakes, sport steering wheel, bucket seats with center console, remote mirror, vintage 8-track tape player, black vinyl top, and even a vintage Sun Super tachometer mounted on the column. Rear gears are 3.23 Sure-Grip.

Two-hundred seventy-five horsepower doesn’t sound like much, even for a lightweight vehicle like a Dart, but the 340 has an eager disposition. The originality of this car and its spectacular hue and you have what could be characterized as a desirable “Unpony car” (with apologies to Geoffrey Holder and 7-Up). For $67,998, it can be yours.

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

It’s Independence Day weekend, and there’s no better way to celebrate with The ClassicCars.com Journal than to read about cars painted red, white, and blue! And what brand is more American than American Motors?

The company from Kenosha was formed by the merger of Hudson and Nash. Though they both disappeared in 1957, the Rambler brand continued on, even out-flanking Plymouth and achieving number three in sales. Rambler began rebranding itself as American Motors Corporation for 1966, with the Rambler name continuing for the American compact through 1969. The brand colors were, naturally, red, white, and blue, and these colors were used on several cars to gain visibility in the youth market. Here are three.

1968 Craig Breedlove’s Bonneville Speed Spectacular Javelin
Somewhat of a ringer on this list, as these vehicles were not quite production cars. The Javelin was a new 1968 model created to compete in the pony car market. Land speed racer Craig Breedlove drove one decked out in red/white/blue livery to a new C-Production class record of 161.733 mph at Bonneville Salt Flats.

It was one of three cars/teams entered in a competition sponsored by Car Craft and AMC—a publicity/marketing stunt of sorts to bring attention to the fact that yes, Virginia, that Rambler company was building fast cars for the youth market. Honorable mention goes to the 1969 SS/AMX, which were built in Frost White but many were raced in red/white/blue.

1969 Rambler SC/Rambler
Created with help from Hurst Performance, the idea was to cram a 390 V8 under the hood of the Rambler Rogue two-door hardtop (the 290 was the biggest engine available from the factory). Bold, pop-art graphics on the hood—inspired by a rejected Hurst/Olds proposal—pointed air to the intake of the scoop. Hood pins were a touch from the street that was just starting to appear as a factory option in the industry.

The 315-horse 390 was hooked to a Borg-Warner close-ratio four-speed backed by 3.54 gears with Twin-Grip differential. Two paint schemes were available, one less boisterous than the other, but both featuring brilliant red and blue on a white body.

1970 Rebel “The Machine”
After leaving Pontiac’s ad agency, Jim Wangers worked for Hurst as a consultant. He helped AMC evolve a stillborn Rebel concept from several years before into the red/white/blue Rebel Machine. Though available in any color after the first thousand were built, it’s the signature, patriotic-colored examples that most folks salute.

A 340-horsepower 390 featured modified intake and exhaust manifolds for a 15-horsepower bump over the 390 available for the Javelin and AMX. Other standard features included four-speed, bucket seats, Handling Package, rear sway bar, HD cooling, power disc brakes, 15 x 7-inch “Machine” slotted wheels with E60 x 15 white-letter tires, and 3.54 gears.

1970 Trans-Am Javelin
This was somewhat of a strange vehicle because it was not AMC’s Trans-Am homologation special—the Mark Donohue Javelin was. According to the Trans-Am Javelin Registry website, this special version of the Javelin SST was created to create a buzz about AMC’s SCCA Trans-Am program. Wouldn’t the Mark Donohue have done that already?

So now we have this ceremonial 1-of-100 image car that was completely unrelated to the car that needed homologating, but it also had a nifty three-tiered paint scheme and a unique spoiler that was not legal for Trans-Am racing. All were equipped with the 325-horse 390, ram air, and four-speed manual.