This custom hot rod was built by the seller, the owner of R-Good’s Auto Works in Denver, Colorado, approximately 15 years ago using a 1929 Ford Model A Phaeton body mounted to a modified 1931 frame. Power comes from a turbocharged and intercooled 2.3-liter Quad 4 inline-four linked to a five-speed manual transmission and a Rodsville quick-change rear end. The channeled body has World War II-era warplane-style details, and the car rides on a Z’d frame with a front drop axle, rear ladder bars, Pete & Jake’s shocks, Unisteer rack-and-pinion steering, and front disc brakes. Inside, custom green and tan upholstery is joined by a Sun Super Tach, Stewart-Warner gauges, and a concealed digital media receiver, and other highlights include a Carson Top, MegaSquirt 2 engine management, a stainless-steel side exhaust, and American Racing 15” wheels. This Ford hot rod is now offered with a clean Colorado title in the seller’s name listing the car as a 1931 Ford.
The steel body was channeled, the doors were shaved and the car was sprayed with PPG 586 French Gray paint, according to the seller, and beige pinstriping accents the character line. Graphics inspired by the Northrop P-61 Black Widow known as “Midnite Madness II” were added to the cowl and fuel filler door. The black Carson Top has an aluminum frame.
The custom hood has a scoop, and vents, scoops, and aircraft-style hook latches were mounted on the side panels. The headlights are from a ’29, and the seller used ’37 taillights. Paint chips and dings around the car are shown up close in the image gallery below.
The 2.3-liter Quad 4 inline-four is equipped with a T3/T4 turbocharger, a MegaSquirt 2 engine management system, and an American Autowire wiring harness. A side-mounted intercooler and a Walker radiator cooled by a SPAL 16” electric fan were utilized along with a custom-fabricated aluminum fuel tank.
The car rides on a ’31 frame that has been Z’d at the rear, and a custom crossmember has been added. The leaf-spring suspension features Pete & Jake’s shocks all around as well as rear ladder bars and a ‘32 front drop axle with wishbone radius rods. A Unisteer rack-and-pinion assembly has been installed, and braking is handled by front discs and ’40 Ford “juice” rear drums.
American Racing 15×6” front and 15×8” rear Halibrand-style wheels are wrapped in Cooper Cobra tires.
The cabin is trimmed in dark green with tan tuck-and-roll inserts, and lap belts are provided. The dashboard fascia has been painted to complement the exterior, and a black rubber mat lines the floor. A Bluetooth-capable digital media receiver is connected to a 400w amplifier and four speakers. A heater is mounted to the firewall.
The three-spoke steering wheel is mounted to a quick-release hub and sits ahead of a column-mounted Sun Super Tach that has been converted to solid-state internals, while a central instrument bezel houses a barrel-style speedometer and Stewart-Warner auxiliary gauges. An Innovate Motorsports digital air/fuel ratio gauge is mounted below the dash. The five-digit odometer indicates 11k miles.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a T5 five-speed manual transmission and a Rodsville quick-change rear end. The fabricated stainless-steel exhaust system has a Borla muffler. An oil change was performed in January 2025, and fluid leaks are noted.
The car is titled as a 1931 FOR using the VIN 4334220, which is consistent with a Ford Model A engine produced in February 1931. The frame stamping showing the sequence A4334220 is shown above.
To a gearhead, concept cars can be emotional roller coasters. They blow you away with their styling and inspire fantasies of owning something so visually exciting and distinctive, but it doesn’t take long before reality sets in. Concepts rarely make it into production looking the way they did on a manufacturer’s car show stand. Many of them have been destroyed because they weren’t street-legal and the automakers who created them didn’t have storage space for them. The Concept Speedtop that BMW recently showcased at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2025 won’t meet that fate because BMW is going to put it into production – but not for long.
So what exactly is a Speedtop? That’s BMW-speak for a three-door interpretation of one of its Touring (aka wagon) models, essentially a shooting brake. It certainly has a concept car look to its V-shaped front end, slim headlights, and the center spines that run down the middle of the hood and the roof. Even the paint job has a show-car flare to it, transitioning on the roof from Floating Sunstone Maroon to Floating Sundown Silver.
The two-seat interior has a similar two-tone look. According to BMW, “Here, the brown ‘Sundown Maroon’ world harmonizes with the light ‘Moonstone White’ of the seats. The two-tone leather upholstery divides the dynamic and functional areas of the interior. The visually striking roof spline on the exterior is mirrored as a light beam in the two-tone leather headliner, providing atmospheric, indirect illumination.”
The open compartments behind the seats have leather straps designed to hold made-to-measure luggage for a weekend getaway. The leather-lined two-level trunk can hold a matching weekend bag. You may recognize the company that makes the luggage: Schedoni – the leather goods company that crafts the fitted bags that go inside the front and rear trunks of Ferraris. And if you’ve ever worn a pair of wingtips or longwings before, you’ll spot all of the brogue-style details on the upholstery.
BMW didn’t release any engine or performance stats for the Concept Speedtop, but the company did say that it will have “the most powerful V8 engine currently offered by BMW.” Assuming that excludes a full hybrid setup like the one in the M5 Touring, it seems as if the Concept Speedtop will be equipped with a 617-horsepower 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, such as the one in the mild-hybrid X5 M Competition.
So how many Concept Speedtops will BMW produce? Seventy lucky collectors and enthusiasts will be able to get their hands on one. Perhaps we here at the ClassicCars.com Journal will see one at a future Arizona Concours d’Elegance. If we do, we’ll be sure to share our experience with you.
“Glad you’ve found the magic.” That’s what the owner of Bob’s Station and Motel told me after I checked in for the night on a recent 2,000-mile journey from Arizona and Wyoming and back. He was right – and I never thought I would find such a unique treasure in the middle of nowhere.
After all, the town of Kanosh, Utah, is home to fewer than 500 people. It is located several miles away from a major north-south interstate; I lived in Utah for over 20 years and had driven past the exit sign a hundred times or more, but I never had a reason to check it out. I’m glad that I finally took the time to venture off the beaten path and explore it this time.
There isn’t much hustle and bustle in Millard County, although the area is home to some of Utah’s most rugged recreational areas, like Great Basin National Park and Meadow Hot Springs. My overnight stay led me to Bob’s Sinclair Station when I needed to find a place to stay that was close to my travel route and wanted to experience something a little different.
The motel has just seven rooms, and I was the only guest for the night. Parked out front was a worn and weathered 1979 Ford F-350 tow truck – its registration sticker expired in 2013. The story goes that Bob Nafus and his wife Valyrie bought the service station in 1986 and operated it as a wrecker facility and small equipment rental store. Not long afterward, the adjacent Kanosh Motel was purchased by the Nafus family as well. In Bob’s obituary (he passed in 2020), it reads, “Bob liked to think of Kanosh as a destination.” He came to the aid of many travelers over the years.
I have a particular fascination with vintage service stations, and that’s in large part because it runs in the family. Back in late 2022, I wrote a story on my late great-grandfather’s station. Then last year, I featured a unique Art Deco station in Tucson. So, the story of Bob’s station was of particular interest to me.
The current property owner told me he believes the service station and motel both date back to the 1950s. Most impressive to me was how original they both looked. The Sinclair received a new paint job a few years ago, but its floor plan (including outside-access restrooms), roll-up doors and mercantile-style shelving in the front office probably look the same today as they did 75 years ago. It felt like I was traveling back in time to admire it all.
When dusk started to set in, the clouds made for some striking photo opportunities, and I wandered out of my motel room to capture the moment. I couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing place to spend the night – aside from the occasional car driving past, the only thing I could hear was the sound of a neighbor’s sprinklers. When compared to the fast pace and stress that many of us deal with in the modern world, it was a welcome contrast.
My experience at Bob’s and the Kanosh Motel made me reflect on what it might have been like to visit a Sinclair station 50 or more years ago. The stories it could tell!
Note below the quartet of vehicles, all of which are for sale on AutoHunter or ClassicCars.com. Can you tell us what they have in common?
Besides that, we’ll give you a gold star if you can tell us the marque and the model—we won’t fuss about the model year. You can post your answers below in the Comments section.
The Plymouth Barracuda’s glory years were 1970-74, and there are some folks in the Mopar camp who feel the final one ended on a strong note thanks to the introduction of the 360 small-block. While the 360 first appeared in 1970 for full-size cars, a performance version—and a successor to the 340—did not appear until 1974 for the Road Runner and Barracuda. Not only is this 1974 Plymouth ‘Cuda listed on AutoHunter an authentic 360 car with four-speed manual, but it also features electronic fuel injection. Other features include power steering and brakes, black vinyl top, black longitudinal stripes, scooped hood with black-out, rear spoiler, and more. Painted in lime green with a black interior, this swan song Mopar pony car comes from the selling dealer with a clear title.
The hue looks just like the High Impact color from 1970, “FJ5” Limelight, making this ‘Cuda easy to see in just about any light. The flanks are complemented by the optional stripes available for ’74. Other features include vinyl top, matte black non-functional scooped hood, hood pins, rear spoiler, body-colored racing mirrors, rocker panel trim, and fender-mounted turn signal indicators. A set of 17-inch versions of Plymouth’s Road Wheels is wrapped in 255/50 Nitto radials.
The black cabin is furnished in vinyl with a pair of bucket seats up front. A center console houses a Hurst “Pistol Grip” four-speed. Both the console and dashboard feature woodgrain trim. Other options include a three-spoke Tuff steering wheel, power steering, and aftermarket Pioneer AM/FM stereo with CD player.
The instrument panel includes a 120-mph speedometer and gauges for fuel, coolant temperature, and voltage, plus a clock. An aftermarket 8,000-rpm tachometer is mounted under the dashboard. The odometer reads 67,791 miles, though the title reads mileage-exempt.
The engine code in the VIN shows “L,” signifying this ‘Cuda is one of the rare vehicles built with the new 245-horsepower 360 High Performance. The four-barrel has been co-opted by an electronic fuel-injection system that works in conjunction with an Edelbrock intake manifold and headers. Also pedigreed per the fender tag is a four-speed manual.
The undercarriage features power front disc brakes and a dual exhaust system. You’ll find a 3.55 gear in the rear differential, a nice compromise between performance and streetability.
Unlike the Dodge Challenger, there would be no Barracuda after 1974. It was a different world, full of uncertainty after an oil crisis and increasing federalized regulations that seemed to kill all the fun. Yet this 1974 ‘Cuda shows how Plymouth persevered and refined the Barracuda, and further refinement has been implemented with several modern updates including fuel injection. Looks hot and drives hot? That’s a proposition that we’re sure you can live with, so be sure to bid soon because the car in this AutoHunter Spotlight ends on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:45 a.m. (PDT).
In line with its inherent meaning, the “Royal” nameplate was first used as a high-end trim level classification for Chrysler sedans in the early 1930s.
However, as we know, automakers are famous for shaking things up in terms of rankings or hierarchy as a vehicle evolves. By the late 1940s, the Royal slotted on the other end of the lineup as an entry-level series, and it was phased out entirely after 1950 (the Windsor took its place from there onward). A total of 17,713 Royal four-door sedans were sold for the car’s final year in 1950. By comparison, there were just 5,900 two-doors sold that year.
If you are looking for a car that comes with the nobility and dignity worthy of the Royal nameplate, you’re in luck!
“The car was purchased new in Mooseman, Saskatchewan, then sold in 1970,” the listing begins. “I bought the car in 2012 and there were 73,000 miles on the speedometer.”
Finished in deep green, the car is decked out in characteristic 1950s flair, including amber auxiliary fog lamps, a hood ornament, dual side mirrors, a windshield visors, wide whitewall tires and plentiful chrome trim. The interior photos show comfortable tan cloth appointments for the upholstery, door panels and headliner. Even the trunk is carpeted, and a spare tire is housed in its recessed compartment where the factory intended it to be.
Under the hood, power comes from a rebuilt 251ci inline-six mated to a three-speed manual transmission. The seller says that he took the car to Newfoundland in 2017 towing a 13-foot trailer, and it “will have no issues doing another cross-Canada drive.” Even though the six-cylinder Royal was technically an entry-level model for its time, it still came well appointed. And this car, being from the final model year, carries unique collectibility.
“My reason for selling the vehicle at this point is I am 82 years old and no longer drive it,” the listing concludes. “I feel it is time for someone else to be able to enjoy this classic car.”
Ready to drive like a king? Your Royal sedan awaits. The asking price won’t break the treasury either – the car will set you back just $11,500 USD.
The 1990s were a defining era for sports utility vehicles, a time when they evolved from rugged off-roaders to mainstream favorites.
Fast forward to today, and these once-overlooked models are experiencing a remarkable resurgence in the collector market.
Their distinctive designs and nostalgic charm have caught the attention of automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike.
As modern cars become more homogenized, the unique character of ’90s SUVs is proving irresistible.
From their boxy shapes to robust engineering, these vehicles are not just relics of the past; they are treasured icons of a bygone era,
poised for a triumphant comeback.
In the world of automobiles, certain models transcend their initial designs to become timeless classics.
These iconic cars not only reflect the technological advancements of their era
but also embody the cultural and societal shifts of their time.
From the drawing board to the open road, each vehicle tells a unique story of innovation and passion.
This article delves into the fascinating journey of these cars, tracing their evolution
from ambitious concepts to beloved classics cherished by enthusiasts worldwide.
Buckle up as we explore how these legendary models have left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.
In today’s automotive landscape, hybrid vehicles are revolutionizing how we think about mobility.
As concerns about environmental impact and fuel consumption intensify, these innovative vehicles are gaining traction.
Merging traditional combustion engines with electric propulsion systems, hybrids offer enhanced fuel efficiency and
dynamic performance. Recent technological advancements have propelled the development of cutting-edge hybrid models,
setting new benchmarks in the industry.
With a focus on sustainability and innovation, manufacturers are pushing boundaries to deliver vehicles
that are not only eco-friendly but also thrilling to drive. In this article, we explore 12 hybrid models
that are redefining what’s possible in terms of fuel efficiency and performance.
1. Toyota Prius
“An eco-conscious Toyota Prius, expertly designed for superior fuel efficiency, stands as a testament to hybrid vehicle innovation.” | Image source: google
The Toyota Prius remains a pioneering force in the hybrid vehicle segment. Renowned for its
exceptional fuel efficiency, the Prius has consistently set the standard for what hybrids can achieve.
With its aerodynamic design and advanced hybrid synergy drive, it continues to lead the market in sustainability
and innovation.
While competitors like the Honda Insight and Hyundai Ioniq offer compelling alternatives, the Prius’s
reliability and fuel economy keep it at the forefront of consumer choice. Its enduring popularity
is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to refining hybrid technology, making it a benchmark for others to follow.
2. Honda Accord Hybrid
“An exemplary blend of performance and fuel economy, the stunning Honda Accord Hybrid glides effortlessly down the highway.” | Image source: google
The Honda Accord Hybrid expertly merges performance with impressive fuel economy,
offering a remarkable balance that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Building on the strengths of the
standard Accord, this hybrid version incorporates a two-motor hybrid powertrain that enhances both
efficiency and driving dynamics.
While the standard Accord is celebrated for its robust performance and spacious interior, the hybrid
variant elevates fuel efficiency without sacrificing these attributes. Drivers appreciate the seamless
transition between electric and gasoline power, making the Accord Hybrid a strong contender against
other hybrids in its class, such as the Toyota Camry Hybrid.
3. Ford Fusion Hybrid
“Dominating the market with its unparalleled style, the sleek Ford Fusion Hybrid beckons the eco-conscious driver.” | Image source: google
The Ford Fusion Hybrid carves out a distinctive niche in the hybrid market by offering a
blend of style and efficiency. Its sleek design and refined interior make it an appealing choice
for those who desire aesthetic appeal without compromising on fuel economy.
The Fusion Hybrid shines with its smooth driving experience and advanced technology, such as the
intuitive SYNC 3 infotainment system. Compared to other hybrids like the Kia Niro,
it holds its ground with a well-rounded package that includes a comfortable ride and commendable efficiency.
The Fusion Hybrid remains a popular choice for eco-conscious drivers seeking both elegance and practicality.
4. Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
“Showcasing modern technology and exceptional fuel efficiency, the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid glimmers as a pioneer of sustainable transport.” | Image source: google
The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid stands out with its impressive technological innovations
and class-leading fuel efficiency. Designed with sustainability in mind, the Ioniq employs
an advanced hybrid system that maximizes energy conservation and minimizes emissions.
Its lightweight architecture and regenerative braking system contribute to its remarkable efficiency,
often surpassing competitors like the Toyota Prius in fuel economy ratings.
The Ioniq Hybrid also offers modern conveniences such as a high-resolution touchscreen and
Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car services, enhancing the driving experience while setting
new standards for eco-friendly technology in the hybrid market.
5. Kia Niro
The sleek Kia Niro glides through city streets, showcasing its versatility as a modern, stylish crossover. | Image source: Photo by Hyundai Motor Group on Pexels
The Kia Niro offers a unique blend of versatility and efficiency,
characterized by its distinctive crossover design. This hybrid stands out by
combining the practicality of an SUV with the fuel-saving benefits of a hybrid.
With a spacious interior and flexible cargo space, the Niro caters to families
and adventurers alike. Its efficient hybrid powertrain ensures an eco-friendly
journey without sacrificing performance. Compared to other hybrids, such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the Niro
delivers a balanced driving experience that appeals to those seeking both
functionality and sustainability in a compact crossover vehicle.
6. Chevrolet Volt
“A sleek Chevrolet Volt, the epitome of an extended-range plug-in hybrid, catching reflections under the city lights.” | Image source: google
The Chevrolet Volt has been a trailblazer in the realm of plug-in hybrid technology.
Known for its extended electric range, the Volt allows drivers to travel significant distances
on electric power alone before seamlessly switching to its gasoline engine. This feature provides
the flexibility of a hybrid with the added benefit of reduced fuel consumption.
The Volt’s innovative dual powertrain system has set the stage for future advancements in hybrid
technology, influencing competitors like the Toyota Prius Prime.
Its role in pioneering plug-in hybrids continues to be celebrated, making it a significant player
in the quest for greener, more efficient transportation.
7. BMW i8
“Behold the luxurious BMW i8, a striking epitome of cutting-edge performance and sporty elegance.” | Image source: google
The BMW i8 redefines the concept of a luxury hybrid sports car with its futuristic design and impressive performance metrics. This revolutionary vehicle
combines the excitement of a sports car with the efficiency of a hybrid, featuring a
striking aerodynamic body and advanced hybrid powertrain.
With its powerful electric motor and turbocharged engine, the i8 delivers exhilarating acceleration
and dynamic handling. It competes with high-end models like the Porsche Taycan,
demonstrating that sustainability and luxury can coexist. The i8’s innovative design
and performance continue to captivate enthusiasts and set new standards in the hybrid sports car segment.
8. Tesla Model 3
“A sleek Tesla Model 3 stands majestically under the setting sun, showcasing its refined curves and futuristic design.” | Image source: google
The Tesla Model 3 has made a significant impact on the hybrid market with its
electric-hybrid capabilities. While primarily known as a fully electric vehicle,
the Model 3 incorporates hybrid-like technology through its regenerative braking system,
extending its range and efficiency.
Tesla’s innovative approach to electric vehicles has challenged traditional hybrids,
pushing the boundaries of what electric power can achieve. Competing with models like the Model Y, the Model 3 showcases the potential of
sustainable transport, offering a blend of performance and eco-friendliness that has
resonated with consumers worldwide, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
9. Audi A3 e-tron
The Audi A3 e-tron glistens under city lights, showcasing its premium features and unmatched luxury. | Image source: Photo by Michał Robak on Pexels
The Audi A3 e-tron seamlessly integrates hybrid technology with Audi’s hallmark of luxury and sophistication. This plug-in hybrid boasts premium features, such as a plush
interior and cutting-edge infotainment system, delivering a refined driving experience.
Combining a turbocharged engine with an electric motor, the A3 e-tron offers both efficiency and
performance, appealing to drivers who seek a blend of eco-friendliness and luxury. Competing with
similar models like the BMW 3 Series Plug-in Hybrid,
the A3 e-tron exemplifies how hybrid technology can enhance the premium automotive market,
providing a sophisticated yet sustainable choice for discerning consumers.
10. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
“Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV majestically poised on a quiet road, reflecting power, efficiency, and modern elegance.” | Image source: google
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a standout in the hybrid market as a family-friendly SUV with impressive off-road capabilities. It combines the practicality
of a spacious interior with the benefits of plug-in hybrid technology, making it ideal for
families seeking versatility and efficiency.
Equipped with dual electric motors and a 4WD system, the Outlander PHEV offers a smooth ride
on diverse terrains. This makes it a formidable competitor to other hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 Prime, appealing to those who
desire both adventure and eco-conscious driving. Its unique blend of capabilities sets it
apart as a leader in the hybrid SUV segment.
11. Lexus RX 450h
“Immersed in dynamic illumination, the Lexus RX 450h elegantly melds power, luxury, and sleek design into one breathtaking vehicle.” | Image source: google
The Lexus RX 450h offers a luxurious hybrid experience, combining advanced technology
with unparalleled comfort. As part of Lexus’s renowned lineup, this hybrid SUV features a sophisticated
interior, complete with premium materials and state-of-the-art infotainment systems.
The RX 450h’s hybrid powertrain delivers a smooth and efficient ride, catering to drivers who value
both performance and eco-friendliness. Competing with other luxury hybrids like the BMW X5 xDrive45e, the RX 450h stands
out for its seamless integration of technology and comfort, offering a refined driving experience
that appeals to those seeking sustainable luxury.
12. Volvo XC90 T8
Volvo
The Volvo XC90 T8 epitomizes the fusion of hybrid efficiency with elegant Scandinavian design. Known for its luxurious interior and minimalist aesthetics, this plug-in hybrid SUV offers an impressive balance of power and economy. The XC90 T8’s hybrid system delivers robust performance while maintaining fuel efficiency, making it a standout in its class.
Safety remains paramount, with Volvo’s renowned safety features like Pilot Assist and City Safety, ensuring peace of mind for every journey. As we conclude our exploration of hybrid innovations, the XC90 T8 exemplifies how modern hybrids can deliver sustainability and style. Explore these models to find your perfect balance of performance, efficiency, and design.
This 1947 Plymouth P15 Special Deluxe business coupe was modified at some point before 2020 with a chopped roofline and repainted Tuxedo Black, and the interior was redone with two-tone cloth upholstery. Its 217.8 L-head inline-six was fitted with a dual-carburetor Offenhauser intake manifold and headers, and it is linked to a four-speed 700R4 automatic transmission. The car rides on a lowered suspension with 15″ wheels wearing smoothie covers, and it retains drum brakes and a two-piece windshield. This P15 Special Deluxe was purchased by the selling dealer in 2025 and is now offered at no reserve with a clean Florida title.
The roofline was chopped and the body was smoothed by a previous owner, it prior advertisements for the car note it was painted Tuxedo Black. Chrome trim accents the doors and rear quarters, and the car retains a chrome grille and bumpers. The selling dealer notes that the trunk requires a latch, and photos of paint imperfections are presented in the gallery below.
Steel 15″ wheels wearing chrome covers are mounted with 215/60 Ironman GR906 tires that have 2018 date codes. The car rides on a lowered suspension, and braking is handled by hydraulic drums at all four corners.
The cabin has been retrimmed with two-tone cloth, a light headliner, and black carpeting.
The three-spoke steering wheel has a chrome horn ring and a Plymouth-branded center cap. A 100-mph speedometer is flanked by gauges displaying coolant temperature, oil pressure, and fuel level. There is no odometer, and total mileage is unknown.
The 217.8ci inline-six has been fitted with a dual-carburetor Offenhauser intake manifold and headers, and a Lokar throttle cable was utilized. The oil-filter housing has custom paintwork, and the oil was changed in preparation for the sale.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a replacement four-speed 700R4 automatic transmission.
