Even off-road-focused SUVs have V8 fever, it seems. Not only is Land Rover putting one in the 2022 Defender, but the company is also making a limited run of V8-powered classic Defenders. Jeep recently joined with the Wrangler 392, while the V8’s been a Mercedes G-Wagon staple for years. But all of these four-wheel-drive SUVs …
Besides finding bargains, auctions offer opportunities to own some truly rare cars. That means everything from hypercars like the Koenigsegg Regera to a US-market Unimog. And it also includes special variants of already iconic classics. One such opportunity is coming up this March: the only remaining Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake. The Shelby Cobra 427 …
Rallying, like many other forms of automotive racing, makes automakers pursue intriguing and oftentimes kooky solutions to speed. Renault, for example, turned a front-engine, FWD hatchback into a mid-engine RWD one. The Citroen 2CV Sahara has 4WD and two engines. And the Lancia Delta Integrale’s predecessor, the Delta S4, had both a turbocharger and a …
While riding a classic motorcycle can certainly be fun, it requires some additional upkeep compared to a modern one. Classic bikes have carburetors, for one, as well as older ignition systems and brake designs. Admittedly, you can upgrade or swap out these vintage components for modern parts that require less maintenance. But what about ditching …
Vintage SUV values have been on the rise lately. And one of the classic models that helped kick off the trend was the legendarily-rugged FJ40-series Toyota Land Cruiser. Today, thanks to those market forces and the restomodding industry, FJ40s are usually fairly pricey. But that’s not the case with this week’s Bring a Trailer bargain: …
For every revived motorcycle brand like BSA, there’s an equal number of classic ones that still lay by the wayside. Here in the US, for example, we have historic brands like Henderson and Pierce-Arrow. And from Britain, we have marques like Vincent and Velocette. But there’s also Matchless. Matchless made its reputation through winning races …
As electric powertrain swaps give classic cars second lives, some companies are starting the other way around. Bugatti, for example, resurrected its Baby as a small-scale EV. Alpha’s ACE Coupe also has a few retro-ish elements. And now, a Switzerland-based electric scooter company has released its own classic-inspired car. It’s called the Microlino, and its …
Russian vehicles rarely register in the US public consciousness, especially Soviet-era classic ones. Some remember the Yugo, and Tom Hanks helped bolster the Fiat 126p’s status. And apart from the Lada Niva and Ural’s motorcycles, that’s about it. As such, you’ve probably never heard of the subject of Doug DeMuro’s latest video: the Volga GAZ-24-10. …
It’s hard to overstate the CB750’s impact on the motorcycle world. When it launched in 1969, its affordable performance and technology helped coin the term ‘superbike.’ It also launched the Universal Japanese Motorcycle segment, and inspired rivals like the BMW R90S. But the CB750’s status can overshadow some of the other contemporary Honda four-cylinder bikes—including …
While the original 1950s Super Cub was a humble motorcycle, it set the stage for Honda around the world. And in many ways, it helped change US consumers’ perspectives on motorcycles. But Honda didn’t jump straight from the Cub to bikes like the CB750 and the CBX. In addition to models like the CB360, Honda …
Vintage SUVs like the original Bronco have started shooting up in value these last few years. And classic Jeeps are no exception. That especially goes for the original Jeep Grand Wagoneer, the ancestor of the newly relaunched model. But as with any vehicle, sometimes great deals sneak through the cracks. That’s the case with this …
Usually, the phrase ‘celebrity cars’ refers to the cars celebrities own. But a few cars are stars in their own right—and not just the ones in Fast and Furious. There’s Herbie the Love Bug and James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5, just for starters. And recently, Jay Leno took a look at the real version of …
Even today, the E30 M3 holds a special place in BMW fans’ hearts and the hearts of car fans in general. But, as is the case today, not everyone could afford it, and it wasn’t always the best choice for commuting. However, as with the 330i ZHP, there was a way to get some of …
While replicas can finally be sold with powertrains, they’re not the only ways of getting brand-new classic cars. Several automakers have been dipping into their histories and reviving hallowed models with modern build standards. Bentley, for example, brought back the Blower; F1 manufacturer BRM is building new V16-powered Type 15s. And then there’s Jaguar, which …
While its future under Stellantis is uncertain, Lancia has an incredible heritage, especially when it comes to rallying. The Delta Integrale, for example, still holds the record for the most WRC wins in a row. And the 037 was the last rear-wheel-drive car to beat the AWD Audi Quattro. Then there’s the subject of Jay …
Even if they’re used and depreciated, luxury cars from marques like BMW are still luxury cars. That means maintenance and repair bills, especially for engine-related issues, can cost a pretty penny. However, not only can used BMWs be reliable overall, but so can their engines. It’s all a matter of understanding what’s under the hood. …
Whether you visit virtually or in-person, motoring museums offer an excellent opportunity to learn about and view classic cars and bikes. Especially since some historic and obscure models can only be seen in museums like the Henry Ford. Sadly, the vintage car and motorcycle world has just lost one of these repositories: the Top Mountain …
The G-Wagon, aka the G-Class, tends to be the model people first think of when you ask about an off-road Mercedes-Benz. However, as capable as it is, in terms of overlanding ability, it plays second-fiddle to another Mercedes-Benz: the Unimog. Still, while Mercedes Unimogs make for excellent campers, trying to find one isn’t easy. But …
While the return of the rotary to Mazda’s US lineup is great news for the engine’s fans, it’s worth pointing out that it’s not the only automaker to use it. And cars aren’t the only motor vehicles to feature the ‘spinning Dorito.’ A small handful of motorcycles used rotary engines in the past. And recently, …
The original Shelby Cobra still holds a special place in American automotive fandom and history. Little wonder, then, that another American automaker, Dodge, would want to recreate it. That was the original design brief for the first-gen Dodge Viper RT/10. And while some later Vipers are more ‘luxurious,’ in his latest video, Doug DeMuro shows …
Although Vespa scooters are designed around urban commuting, they’re more capable than some may realize. Classic models even compete in off-road rallies from time to time. However, given that they’re scooters, Vespas aren’t necessarily the most practical choice when it comes to hauling cargo. At least, most Vespas aren’t; the Piaggio Ape, aka the Vespa …
As endearing as the latest Suzuki Jimny is, it’s not coming to the US anytime soon. But early models are old enough to import. And although the Consumer Reports scandal curtailed sales, Suzuki did sell a version of the Jimny, the Samurai, in the US. But, if you’re looking for a compact JDM off-road SUV, …
As luxurious as its modern models are, for some Bentley’s classic models are among its most impressive. The Blower Bentley, for example, is such an icon that the British automaker is making some brand-new continuation versions. But it’s not the subject of Jay Leno’s recent video. Instead, Leno presents what he claims many consider to …
Chip Foose is an automotive legend. He is arguably a peer to George Barris, of Batmobile fame, because Chip can conceptualize ideas and turn the wrench and bend the metal to make them real. In short, his automotive work is considered art. But, even the best of us have a bad day. Sadly, Mr. Foose …
For those looking to start riding a classic motorcycle, know that it comes with some unique, and more frequent, maintenance needs. These bikes have manually-adjusting carburetors, for example, and shorter overall service intervals. Plus, those used to modern computerized ignition systems might be overwhelmed when it comes time to fixing a classic motorcycle’s system. But …
Thanks to the rise of #vanlife, SUVs and trucks aren’t the only vehicles capable of wandering off the paved path. And when it comes to overlanding minivans, the Mitsubishi Delica Japanese van has a particularly strong following. But given that Mitsubishi didn’t sell the best versions in the US, importing one can be an exercise …
People trying to break into rallying often pick modern machines; rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive Subarus are common picks. But when it comes to slick slides, classic cars can be just as good and just as fun. Ken Block has driven that point home with his modified vintage Mustang and tweaked Escort Cosworth. And now, there’s another …
As many JDM fans know, sometimes famed performance nameplates take a while to make it onto US shores. And even after they arrive here, the early models age into classics, leaving American enthusiasts waiting on that 25-year-import mark. In 2021, the wait is over for one beloved British sports car that, initially, couldn’t be sold …
US-market fast station wagons have been relatively thin on the ground these past few years. But that’s only partially why there’s been so much hype surrounding the Audi RS6 Avant’s availability here. The other part of it comes from a performance car the brand never offered in the US: the Audi RS2 Avant. And recently, …
Modern technology means that armored cars can be more discrete than their forebears. Discretion, though, goes out the window when you’re talking about ex-military vehicles, especially vintage ones. The subject of Jay Leno’s latest video, a 1959 Daimler Ferret armored scout car, is just such an example. But the armor plating is just the tip …
At this point, the trend of modifying Porsche 911s for off-roading purposes is practically a phenomenon. Various companies, including the famed tuner RUF, have displayed their own take on the Safari 911 idea. Even Porsche itself may be dabbling in it. And now Singer, a company practically synonymous with restomodded Porsche 911s, is joining in …
Regardless of the incarnation, James Bond is inexorably linked to Aston Martin. While in the books the fictional spy started off with a Blower Bentley, on the silver screen he’s been behind the wheel of multiple Astons. And few are as iconic as the Aston Martin DB5 seen first in Goldfinger. Which, incredibly, has been …
As the owners of air-cooled 911s can attest, classic cars sometimes loom large against their modern descendants. Sometimes the looming is more about a car’s ethos, as seen with the E30 BMW M3. Other times, though, the vintage model can eclipse its newer counterpart in market value. Such is the case with the Fiat 500—specifically, …
Scooters may not be as fast or as powerful as motorcycles, but they’re typically a more-approachable option for new two-wheel riders. And in the scooter world, few names are as recognized as Vespa. The Italian brand has been in the business for some time, and as a result, has a wide repertoire of classic models. …
If you’ve been eyeing a classic car or motorcycle, know that their maintenance schedules are typically shorter than their modern counterparts. Oil changes are more frequent, for example. Plus, even the best-kept vintage vehicles are, well, vintage—and time decays all eventually. And one of the biggest changes is learning to live with and adjust a …
The Hellcat Redeye model isn’t the only special Dodge Charger available right now. In honor of the original Charger Daytona’s 50th anniversary, Dodge launched a limited-edition modern homage. But just because the name’s the same—or at least similar—doesn’t mean the new model drives like the classic one. So, how does the 2020 Dodge Charger Daytona …
At least in the US, luxury cars tend to be what people think of when the name ‘Mercedes-Benz’ pops up. But the German automaker has an extensive history of more utilitarian offerings, too. It’s made minibuses like the Omnibus, for example. Plus, the G-Wagon was originally a rugged off-roader fit for civilians and military personnel. …
In-period exclusivity often turns to modern obscurity when it comes to classic luxury cars. While the Citroen DS is fairly well-known, for example, not many remember Facel Vega’s well-appointed wheels. It’s a similar story for premium British marques. Jaguar, Aston Martin, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce are all prominent names. But the lesser-known subject of Jay Leno’s …
Even though the later R33 model offers several improvements, the Nissan R32 Skyline GT-R has firmly established itself as a JDM icon. However, the R32 isn’t the first car to bear the ‘Skyline GT-R’ name. That would be the ‘Hakosuka’ model of the early 70s. But in-between that car and the R32 came another Skyline, …
Given that the 707-hp Dodge Charger Hellcat is now the 2nd most-powerful model in its lineup, it’s easy to forget that sedans have rarely been performance cars. That especially applies to classic luxury sedans, which were typically more about refinement than outright speed. But back in the ‘80s, one car helped change that perception: the …
Even though Gordan Murray already designed its spiritual successor, the McLaren F1 still looms large in the automotive consciousness. From its Toyota-Sera-inspired doors to its gold-lined engine bay, it’s a supercar that still feels, well, super. But according to Road & Track, it’s not the best sports car. Instead, that title belongs to the Shelby …
Although Alfa Romeo’s current lineup is shrinking, the Italian brand’s classic models are still worth second or third looks. The 155 Q4 and the 75, for instance, could square off with contemporary M3s. And the Montreal has Lamborghini Miura looks at a significant discount. But this week’s special-edition Bring a Trailer bargain car is a …
The simple designs of classic cars are part of their appeal. But all too often these cars are priced out of reach for people who don’t have the resources of someone like, well, Jay Leno. However, there are still bargains out there, and enthusiasts always find a way. The star of Jay Leno’s latest video, …
The Jaguar E-Type still looms large in the classic car world, especially for fans of British convertible sports cars. True, there are noticeably more affordable options, such as the MG MGB. But they don’t quite have the E-Type’s performance or style. However, there’s at least one car that comes close: the Austin-Healey 3000. The 1959-1967 …
Motorcycles are what usually come to mind when the name ‘Triumph’ is mentioned. But along with bicycles, the British brand also made cars, many of which competed with MG’s sporty roadsters. And if you’re looking for a classic convertible sports car, many of its products are still fairly affordable. This week’s Bring a Trailer bargain …
Given that you can now get a 797-hp sedan, today is arguably a second heyday for muscle cars. And thanks to modern engineering, the four-cylinder models can blitz past their classic predecessors. But not every model survived the march of time. One of the most prominent examples is the Bandit’s and the Hoff’s chariot of …
The Chevrolet Corvair was a mid-engine entry into the coupe, sedan, wagon, and van categories back in the 1960s. It is a classic. So, many classic car buyers go around looking for one to restore or one in great condition to add to their collection. But, what do you do if you have one that …
Trying to bring car owners into the motorcycle world has led to some interesting products. For example, the Polaris Slingshot, the 3-wheeler from Indian’s owner. And there’s the Morgan 3-Wheeler, which has an actual S&S bike engine. But some brands attempted to tackle the task from a different angle. Rather than build a bike-like car, …
Turbos aren’t limited to high-end performance cars like Porsche 911s anymore. You can find turbocharged engines in pickup trucks, luxury cars, hot hatches, and entry-level sedans like the Mazda3. But as with any technology, automotive or otherwise, someone had to help bring it on a mass-market level. And in the late 70s, that car was …
With the sheer variety of motorcycle types available today, it’s often easy to forget that some are fairly-recent creations. The adventure bike category, for example, didn’t exist until BMW launched the 1981 R80 G/S. Others, though, evolved from older designs, such as how UJMs fostered standards. And BMW has some familiarity with this as well. …
Fancy features aren’t always enough to keep buyers interested in some luxury cars. For every Jaguar and Rolls-Royce, there’s a Duesenberg and a Packard. As a result, there are a number of fascinating brands that time and fortune simply left by the wayside. One of those made high-end French ‘hybrids’ bought by some very famous …
