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May 17, 2024

Review: 2024 Lexus TX 350 Luxury AWD SUV

Lexus has unveiled a game-changer with their new 2024 TX 350 Luxury AWD SUV. Introducing a spacious third row, this model fills a void in Lexus’ offerings, combining luxurious amenities with a more practical aspect. Priced starting at $61,200 for the AWD base model and $68,100 for the fully loaded luxury trim, let’s see what it’s got.

Love it or hate it, Lexus’s spindle grille has stayed the same over the years. However, I’m happy to say this year’s TX’s exterior design introduces the unified spindle grille. In my opinion, it’s a far better-looking design, especially if you opt for the Eminent White Pearl paint. Ours, sporting a Nightfall Mica blue finish, looks a little more subdued. The LED headlights with the arrowhead daytime running lights, LED fog lamps, and 20-inch machine-finished alloy wheels contribute to its sleek appearance. I appreciate the ruggedness of the matte black accents towards the rear, and I believe the decision to forgo exhaust tips makes the vehicle look more refined. It’s a well-crafted exterior that isn’t trying to imitate something it’s not. The liftgate’s lower leg sensor works as it should. Kick, wave, or tap to automatically open it up.

The TX offers three powertrain options catering to different drivers. Our TX 350 model features a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid variants, TX 500h and TX 550h Plus, provide a little more power and efficiency. The TX 550h Plus combines a 3.5L V6 engine with electric motors, offering 404 horsepower and an estimated 33 miles of pure electric range. Despite its size, the TX 350 achieves decent fuel efficiency ratings. The TX 350 model offers 20 mpg in the city, 26 on the highway, for a combined 23 mpg.

Practical, practical, practical… I can’t stress that enough. From the ample storage space and 3 rows of seating to the comfortable captain’s chairs, the TX350 is ready for any type of activity. Y’all thought third-row seats were hard to climb into? Not in this thing! The rear console is easy to lift and remove, allowing for a clear runway to the back seats. The heads-up display keeps your eyes up and on road. The semi-aniline leather seats (with their 10-way power adjustments) allow for a comfortable commute with the ability to dial in your lumbar support. Storage space is not lacking, as you can fold down the 2nd and 3rd row of seating. Whether loading this SUV full of moving supplies or going on road trips with the family, you have what I’d like to call “versatility.” The 12.3-inches for a digital gauge cluster and 14-inches for touchscreen seem to be the sweet spot in size. They’re large enough to navigate but small enough to fit in this vehicle.

The TX provides a comfortable and agile driving experience, despite its larger size. To me, it didn’t feel like anything larger than a small crossover SUV. The acceleration might even surprise you. We’re told driving a Lexus is smooth, but we don’t really know until we actually get behind the wheel of one. But dang are they right. Not only is it smooth, but the suspension is also soft and squishy. That’s exactly what I expect from a luxury SUV. If you’re worried about parking this thing, don’t be! With the number of cameras found throughout this vehicle, it’s a breeze to put away. Not everything is fine and dandy though.

The only way to change drive modes is through the infotainment screen. I would have much preferred physical buttons. I found myself just leaving it in comfort/normal mode because it took too long to change it. I’m all here for technological advancements but some things should stay physical and not digital! The attention monitor “feature” almost made me tear my hair out. I was constantly told to “sit-up” or “keep your eyes on the road” by the vehicle when I was just driving normally. Thankfully, you can disable this feature. Otherwise, the driving experience was pleasant, and my ears enjoyed the crisp sound coming from the 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

Watch our full video review on the ClassicCars TV YouTube channel

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 Luxury AWD SUV sure has impressed me. I can’t decide what I like more, being driven around in it, or driving it myself. Both are equally enjoyable. If luxury SUVs are your speed, I highly recommend you go and test drive one! If you’re after better performance and gas efficiency, check out the TX 500h Plus! It may run you some extra dough, but you best believe you’ll get your money’s worth.

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1981 Datsun 280ZX Turbo

Andy Reid

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May 17, 2024

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AutoHunter Spotlight: 1981 Datsun 280ZX Turbo

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1981 Datsun 280ZX Turbo.

Datsun/Nissan completely altered the sports car market in 1970 with the launch of the 240Z. Overnight, there was a new standard of excellence in the affordable sports car world. In period magazine comparison tests, the Z rated so much higher than its competitors – cars such as the Fiat 124 Coupe, Alfa Romeo GTV, MGB GT, Porsche 914, and Triumph GT6 – that testers felt it was almost unfair to compare these cars with the 240Z. The Datsun 240Z was just that good. Having owned a 240Z, as well as many of the other cars it was tested against, I agree with them as the 240Z punched way above its pay grade.

Datsun followed up the 240Z with the 260Z and 280Z, adding features such as four-wheel disc brakes, a five-speed transmission and, for the 280Z, fuel injection. These features put the Z in competition with the Porsche 924, Alfa Romeo Alfetta GT and, again, the car virtually destroyed them by offering more for less. In addition, the Z offered levels of reliability that competitors simply could not begin to approach.

In 1979, Datsun changed the game again with the launch of the S130-series Z, the 280ZX. While the new car had very similar styling to the original Z, it was an entirely new model. Instead of being a focused sports car, it became more of a luxury GT due to requests from American buyers for more luxury options. While the 280ZX did this well, in many ways the Z lost its edge in performance, and the softer more comfortable ZX was seen as more of a boulevard cruiser than a sports car.

Then, Datsun changed it up again in 1981 when it added a turbocharger to the 280ZX. Once again, the performance was back and this time the Z car was compared to such cars as the Porsche 924 Turbo, Alfa Romeo GTV 6, and Chevrolet Corvette, where it yet again trounced the competition – and at a considerably lower price point.

Our AutoHunter Spotlight is one of these legendary Datsuns, a one-owner 1981 280ZX Turbo with 84,000 miles from new. It is finished in the factory original Diamond Mist Metallic (code 663) over a Medium Blue velour (code K) interior. This 280ZX is offered with service records, promotional literature, owner’s and service manuals, original purchase documentation, spare keys, clean CARFAX report, and clear title.

This car features chrome trim, removable T-tops, factory 15-inch cast aluminum wheels, power windows, and air conditioning.

The interior of this 280ZX Turbo is completely original and in good original condition with minor wear, tinted windows, factory AM/FM/cassette stereo, digital quartz clock, carpeted floor mats, and cargo area parcel retention straps that are still intact.

The 280ZX has full instrumentation including an odometer shows 84,510 miles, which is in line with the most recent CARFAX report. It features a federally mandated 85-mph speedometer, 7,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for coolant temperature, fuel level, oil pressure, voltage, and turbo boost pressure.

Under the hood is the car’s original L28ET turbocharged 2.8-liter I6 engine that, when new, was rated at 180 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. It is equipped with an automatic transmission, like every single 1981 280ZX turbo, yet the 280ZX turbo could cover 0-60 in 7.4 seconds. If that does not seem fast in 2024, consider that the Porsche 924 Turbo took 7.7 seconds, the 1981 Corvette took 7.8 seconds, and even the much costlier and more exotic 1981 Ferrari 308 GTSi took 7.8 seconds – all with manual gearboxes.

It is getting harder and harder to find a good example of a 280ZX, let alone a turbo model, and if you have always considered adding one of these cars to your collection, this car looks like it could be a worthy candidate for your consideration. Don’t worry about the cost to ship it home either as this is a car I would fly to pick up and drive home, especially with summer around the corner.

The auction for this 1981 Datsun 280ZX Turbo ends Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 11:45 a.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

Collect ‘Em All: The 1993 Honda Prelude Si

Car Culture

Tyson Hugie

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May 17, 2024

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Collect ‘Em All: The 1993 Honda Prelude Si

Assembling a complete set, as it turns out, can apply to more than just baseball cards or souvenir shot glasses. Even automotive collectors find it satisfying to complete a series. And with my recent acquisition of a 1993 Prelude, I closed the gap on owning all five generations of that model.

It has been 45 years since the Honda Prelude sport coupe was first launched. Marketed for over two decades and five generations, the car was phased out of production after model year 2001. However, true to its name, those Preludes might have been just an indication of what was to come.

Consistent Formula

The “original” Prelude made its way to dealership showrooms in 1979 and paved the way for subsequent models. Throughout its lifespan, the Prelude leveraged a front-wheel-drive, naturally aspirated four-cylinder coupe arrangement. It was well appointed even in base model form, and all Preludes came standard with sunroofs.

The press release for the introduction of the final-year Prelude (in 2001) said: “Designed to be an aggressive sports coupe with superior handling, the Prelude is intended to appeal to drivers who will appreciate its high level of performance and refinement. Specific areas of improvement include enhanced handling, greater technical sophistication, more storage and utility, and enhanced safety.”

Enthusiasts were delighted to learn that the Prelude is coming back. At least, that’s what Honda has hinted. A concept car was shown at the Japan Mobility Show last October, and it later debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

The Prelude’s attributes of handling and its captivating design were what drew me to the model from a young age; I drove a 1989 Prelude in high school in the late 1990s. A couple of years ago, the AutoHunter Cinema team produced a video showcasing my current car – which is nearly an identical copy of the one I owned back then. Even at 185,000 miles, the car’s smooth five-speed gearbox and acceleration feel are engaging. The 1980s aesthetic elements like pop-up headlights are icing on the cake.

One of my Preludes, by the way, was sold on AutoHunter two years ago. The only Prelude I hadn’t owned at that point was a fourth-generation version. Let us look more about its attributes.

Fourth Gen Basics

In model year 1992, Honda took a fresh design approach to its beloved sport coupe, both inside and out. The formerly wedge-shaped body took on a much more rounded look, and the pop-up headlights made way for fixed assemblies. Perhaps one of the most controversial elements was the car’s interior, where a two-tiered, flat-topped dashboard gave the cabin a sort of space-age vibe.

The generation lasted through 1996. There were three available powertrains offered during this era:

“S” Model: Powered by the 2.2-liter F22A1 inline-four with 135 horsepower
“Si” and “SE” Models: Powered by the 2.3-liter H23A1 inline-four with 160 horsepower
“VTEC” Model: Powered by the 2.2-liter H22A1 inline-four with 187 horsepower

Across all available engines, the two transmission offerings were a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. One of the innovations that continued for this generation was an available four-wheel-steering system.

My “New” 1993 Prelude Si

On June 2, 1993, a Prelude was sold from Tempe Honda in Arizona to its proud original owner, Julie, with 16 miles on the odometer. Julie had previously owned a Honda CRX and was already hooked on the driving dynamics, economy, and overall “friendliness” that Honda ownership entailed. Julie opted for a Milano Red “Si” (a trim level that originated in the 1980s to describe the Sport Injected, or fuel-injected, model) with a five-speed manual transmission. The car had a retail price of $20,330.

After 219,547 trouble-free miles and 31 years, Julie was finally ready to part ways with her car. Effectively, she’d owned the car for half her life, so this was a difficult decision to make. She wanted something with a few more safety features, an elevated ride height, and easier ingress and egress.

That’s where I came into the picture. As it turns out, Julie and I were mutually connected through an independent mechanic. Julie expressed that she was ready to sell the car and we were put in touch since I am integrated into the Honda/Acura community locally. The car was too cool to pass up.

The service records that came with the Prelude paint a clear picture of the love and care it received over its 30-plus years in service as Julie’s primary car. Excluding cosmetic items like new upholstery and a fresh paint job in 2018, the receipts come out to around $15,000 in expenditures. The timing belt and water pump have been changed three times – this is a big-ticket (and important) service item.

Future Plans

My Prelude has survived three decades without falling victim to any kind of crazy modifications, and I intend to keep it clean and original. In fact, my plan is to revert the car to looking even more “showroom” by removing the window tint as well as having the wheels professionally refinished. One upgrade I do plan on adding is the factory trunk-mounted spoiler.

I guess now the only thing left to do is keep tabs on when Honda plans to drop generation number six, so I can promptly put my order in. Have you ever owned every generation of a particular model? Let us know in the comment section!

Stay tuned to The Journal for news on Honda Preludes, both from the past and from the future!

Diego’s AutoHunter Picks

Diego Rosenberg

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May 17, 2024

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This week’s AutoHunter Picks feature three cars that made their mark on me as I was a growing young ‘un in suburban America. Thunderbirds were common because they often were bought by mature folks. While 1950s cars were a rare sight, Cadillacs were among the most common, perhaps for the same reason. And Corvettes? C3s had a long run so they were not uncommon at all, even chrome-bumpered ones.

So, what’s an International Harvester doing on this list? I used to see them on occasion, and it’s a cool find currently listed on AutoHunter, so why not?

1965 Ford Thunderbird
I was into Thunderbirds as much as any other car when I was a wee lad. When it came to 1964-66 T-Birds, my preference leaned strongly towards the ’66, and it still does today. However, the 1965 was the first year for sequential taillights, a gimmick that eventually was shared with the 1968-70 Shelby Mustang, 1967-73 Mercury Cougar, and 1969 Imperial. The gimmick has made a comeback on several cars today.

Like all of them, this Medium Blue metallic 1965 Ford Thunderbird convertible is powered by a 390 four-barrel and Cruise-O-Matic. Fine features include power top, windows, locks, and trunk lid, Swing-Away steering column, and skirts. If you’re pining for a great American convertible with style inside and out, with the added bonus of a convertible top mechanism that gathers crowds, this is the car for you.

1957 Cadillac Series 62
Another part of my classic car upbringing were finned Cadillacs. Nineteen fifty-seven was the first year for the blade fins mainstreamed into regular models, though I’ve never been fond of the reverse-slant ones that made the ’57 distinct. Up front, it’s as fine a face as any single-headlight Cadillac ever had – I especially like the twin parking lights.

This 1957 Cadillac Series 62 two-door hardtop shows classic Caddy style with classic 1950s colors for a primo 1950s automotive specimen. Power comes from a 365cid V8 that traces its lineage to the historic high-compression V8 of 1949. Desirable luxury items include power windows and Autronic-Eye high-beam dimmer. Of course, four-wheel drums are as good as it got in the era, but they’re power-assisted. A classic cruiser beyond reproach!

1973 International 1110
Aside of the Scout and Travelall, International trucks seem to lean towards the rarer side. The 1110 was the first step up from the base 1010 and featured either a 119- or 131-inch wheelbase with 3,500- or 3,800-pound capacity. Pickup beds could measure 6.5 or 8 feet. Standard was a 6-258 Power-Thrift, with the V-304, V-345, and V-392 V8s optional. An interesting transmission choice was the 5-speed Direct.

This 1963 International 1110 pickup features the longer 131-inch wheelbase and optional four-speed manual, but the rest of the truck appears to be standard fare with the AMC-sourced straight-six, four-wheel drums, and base bench seat interior. The camper shell is a nice addition, perfect for those weekend hiking trips when a simple tent won’t do for your pampered arse.

1968 Chevrolet Corvette 427
It’s one thing to be a Corvette, but it’s another thing to be a high-compression big-block Corvette. Even if it’s the lowest 427 on the totem pole, that’s still 390 horses and tons of torque in a little car that looks like nothing else on the road. What could go wrong? I guess if sideways is wrong to you, then let’s be wrong more often!

This 1968 Corvette coupe features a lusty L36 Turbo-Jet 427 and a rumble that may make the townfolk nervous. Curiously, the original LeMans Blue has been changed to red, but otherwise this Corvette has everything you’d want including M21 close-ratio four-speed, AM/FM radio, 15-inch Rally wheels, and a low 45,927 miles. If you want to convert any Euro snob to American V8 power, this plastic fantastic is as good as any.

Pick of the Day: 1977 Datsun 280Z

Andy Reid

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May 17, 2024

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When it was released in 1970, the Datsun 240Z literally disrupted the entire sports car world offering a world class sports car at a price lower than the cost of the already old 1980 model of the MGB GT. Instead of being powered by an agricultural inline 4 pushrod engine, it had a 2.4 liter SOHC inline 6 under the hood. That engine called the L24 is an engine design with a lot of engineering influence from the Mercedes-Benz SOHN inline 6. That engine was fitted to a modern unit body chassis with all independent suspension, disk brakes on the front and exterior styling reminiscent of the Ferrari 275 GTB. It was a project led by the now famous Yutaka Katayama, the President of Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A. (known in Datsun circles as Mr. K), and designed by a team led by Yoshihiko Matsuo. The car destroyed the competition in period car magazine group tests and in many ways nailed the coffin shut on the entire idea of affordable British and Italian sports cars. It offered so much more for so much less money and added something that most of the competition never could, reliability.

Over the years the Z got heavier and grew bigger bumpers but it never lost its feel until the launch of the 280ZX. To me, the perfect blend of classic design and driving feel all came together in the final edition of the original Z car, the 280Z.

By the time of the launch of the 280Z, Datsun has added features such as an optional 5-speed transmission, and fuel injection. These more modern features, along with factory A/C that worked well, made the 280Z that I owned my favorite. Keep in mind that I have owned a 1971 240Z so I have a good baseline. The reason for me liking the 280Z the best is that the fuel injected engine with a 5-speed make it the easiest to own and most reliable version of the original Z car.

The Pick of the Day is one of these cars, a 1977 Datsun 280Z that is offered for sale by a dealer in Loganville Georgia.

The seller describes this 280Z as an original 1977 Datsun 280Z in excellent condition and has only 65K miles since new. The car features its original inline 6, 2.8L engine with Bosch licensed L-Jetronic fuel injection and original 5-speed manual transmission. It also has power front disc brakes, factory A/C that blows cold, and an original interior that’s like new including the seats, carpet, headliner and dash.

The seller adds that the factory gauges all work and that it still has its factory AM/FM stereo, factory power antenna, rear window defogger, and original owner’s manuals.

They go on to state that the exterior finish is excellent with only a couple minor spots and that it has had one repaint in the original color about 20 years ago. It also rides on its original wheels with Goodyear radial tires, has its original bumpers, bezels, glass and trim, and comes with an optional rear window louver cover.

Of great importance is that they state that the undercarriage of this 280Z is solid as a rock, that the car still has all of its original metal panels, and includes a3 ring binder filled with service documentation.

They close the ad by calling this Datsun 280Z a time capsule, that everything about this car is amazing, and that it is unbelievable how well it runs and drives.

If I were in the market for another 280Z this is a car I would seriously consider this one. I love the originality of the car and the condition that it has been kept in over the last 47 years. it is a car that I would happily take to events and on vintage tours. The asking price of $34,900 is in line with the current market and may even be a bit of a deal for an exile this nice. It is a example of buy it now or pay more for it later.

Click here for this ClassicCars.com Pick of the Day.

Cool Car Clocks: Drive the Bid Podcast

Diego Rosenberg

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May 16, 2024

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Time. One of the things in our existence we can’t control but, with a clock or watch, we can control how we respond to it. So, in this week’s AutoHunter Drive the Bid Podcast, watch aficionados Derek Shiekhi and Luke Lamendola have picked a set of cars that feature what they feel are the most attractive car clocks since the dawn of time, plus two that they disliked.

Also in discussion is the Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition. What’s so special about this one? Seven-hundred fifty-four horsepower and 440-mile range are impressive specs, and 0-60 in 4.5 seconds is the claimed performance. Other data includes 1,500-pound payload and up to 10,000-pound towing capacity. This thing will list for over $96,000. Get in line, Hollywood!

And, if you like memes, the duo have submitted a few more for your observation. Any of ‘em resonate with you? Let us know and we’ll send them to share in social media.

And, of course, Derek and Luke give their AutoHunter picks: 1968 Pontiac GTO convertible, 1965 Ford Thunderbird convertible, 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda that has received a Hemi transplant, and 1963 Buick Riviera.

AutoHunter Cinema has plenty of other videos and podcasts created by the experts behind ClassicCars.com, the world’s largest online collector car marketplace. AutoHunter brings forth a dedicated live customer support team, quicker auction listings and exclusive benefits for both buyers and sellers.

China Begins to Recognize Vintage Cars

Diego Rosenberg

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May 16, 2024

9

Did you know that China allowed the importation of vintage cars in 2019? Alas, it was for cars 100 years old and older. What’s the use of that? Of course, since 1949, China has been the People’s Republic, a developing nation without an auto industry and little understanding of automotive history. Today, China has the largest automotive market in the world and, interestingly, the country is starting to realize automotive history is a thing.

Until recently, China had a rule that required vehicles to be crushed once they reach 15 years. It’s now estimated China has at least a million cars are at least 15 years old and, as such, they stand the chance of spearheading China’s classic car scene. Chinese authorities recognize this, so the Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce, Sheng Qiuping, met with officials from the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) in Paris to discuss the future of classic cars in China.

Cars like this 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-class and the above Porsche were at a post-conference tour on a temporary import permit.

In return, FIVA president Tiddo Bresters was invited to April’s China International Classic Car Industry Outlook conference. China wants to address the development of its classic vehicle sector and determine what exactly is a classic in China. Other topics of consideration include the potential reform of import policies, and the importance of international cooperation.

“While the Chinese authorities are taking a suitably cautious approach to legislative changes – not least because of environmental concerns – there is definitely a sea-change in attitudes towards historic vehicles,” says the FIVA president.

Apparently, these two men are the impetus for regulating the classic car scene in China. Are takeovers in the horizon? (Cao Lei)

FIVA was founded in 1966 as a “worldwide organization dedicated to the protection, preservation and promotion of historic vehicles and related culture, as well as their safe use” when several automotive associations and clubs from different countries felt a need for a worldwide organization to promote the interests of old-car hobbyists internationally. Since 2017, FIVA has even been a non-governmental partner of UNESCO.

“We have spent much time discussing matters with governments and officials across China and we have reason to believe that the spring of China’s classic car industry is approaching,” says Gui’an Zong, President of the Classic Vehicle Union of China. “Working with FIVA, we hope to promote the rapid development of China’s classic car industry.”

Adds Bresters, “Attracting younger people to the historic vehicle movement is a mainstay of FIVA’s aims, so to see this in a country with a potentially a vast contribution to make to the preservation of our automotive heritage is very encouraging.”

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1965 Ford Thunderbird

Tyson Hugie

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May 16, 2024

2

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1965 Ford Thunderbird

Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1965 Ford Thunderbird convertible.

Ford marketed its 1960s Thunderbirds as if they were aircraft. “Flight plan cleared – proceed to Thunderbird,” an ad said. “Move the Swing-Away steering wheel over, slide into the cockpit, and you’re ready to soar.” Are you ready to take flight? Look no further than Gladstone, Oregon, where a beautiful blue ‘bird is ready to take you to new heights. The car is being offered by by a dealer, and the auction will end on Monday.

By the time the Thunderbird was 10 years old, it was already in its fourth generation. The 1964 redesign brought a more “formal” look when compared to prior versions, bringing the car more in line with its positioning as a personal luxury car. The two available body styles were convertibles and hardtop coupes (some of which came with special “Landau” padded vinyl roofs).

The following year for 1965, some engineering changes took place; among them, front disc brakes became more widely used and sequential turn signals were integrated into the rear taillights. Despite the fact that the T-bird had some compelling equipment offerings, its year-over-year sales dipped by about 18,000 units compared to 1964. Some of that decline was attributed to Ford’s own new Mustang (which came at a lower price point, therefore capturing the spotlight and drawing away buyer interest).

Today’s featured ‘65 is a striking convertible in a Medium Blue Metallic exterior finish complemented by a white power-retractable soft top. The rear wheel skirts add to the sleek side profile, and 15-inch steel wheels with whitewall tires keep things looking original.

In the interest of catering to that luxury-oriented buyer, this T-bird is all about comfort. Its signature swing-away steering wheel allows for easier entry and exit of the cockpit. Additional features include a center console, full gauges, wrap-around rear seats, power windows, power steering, a new “Silent-Flo” ventilation system, an AM radio, and power brakes.

Power under the hood comes from a 300-horsepower 390cid “FE” V8 mated to a Cruise-O-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. Ford said this powertrain provided the “incomparable smoothness to an in-flight ride.”

“Other cars you drive,” they said. “This one you Thunderbird.”

Time to place your bid, and then go pack your luggage for an upcoming flight!

The auction for this 1965 Ford Thunderbird ends Monday, May 20, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. (PDT)

Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery

Pick of the Day: 1982 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible

Diego Rosenberg

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May 16, 2024

4

Pick of the Day: 1982 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible

With all the love we’ve been giving full-size Chrysler Corporation C-bodies, especially the last of the convertibles, it only makes sense to have our Pick of the Day be the car that brought the convertible back to America: the 1982 Chrysler LeBaron Mark Cross Edition convertible. It is listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Orlando. (Click the link to view the listing)

Nineteen eighty-one was a pivotal year for the Chrysler Corporation, likely the most pivotal year since the Chrysler brand was introduced in 1925. After Lee Iacocca joined the company and negotiated a government loan to save the company from the brink of financial collapse, his main task was ushering the K-car platform for 1981. For Plymouth, that meant the Reliant, while Dodge offered the Aires. Though badge-engineered, the Chrysler LeBaron that was introduced for 1982 appeared more distinct and, thanks to Chrysler’s place in the hierarchy, luxurious. Initially available as a two-door and four-door sedan, the LeBaron was eventually joined by a station wagon and convertible then joined the stable.

Though Chrysler dealers continued to offer the New Yorker (ironically, known as the LeBaron only a few years before) and Cordoba, plus the Cadillac-fighting Imperial, it was the LeBaron that set the future for the Chrysler brand. Some of the features that distinguished it from other Chrysler models included front-wheel drive, and standard 2.2-liter “Trans-4” inline-four with four-speed manual transaxle. Later in the model year, an OHC Mitsubishi 2.6-liter Hemi became available, only with TorqueFlite. Chrysler claimed that the LeBaron was “… like no other cars from America, Europe, and Japan.”

The major distinguishing feature of the LeBaron from its Plymouth and Dodge cousins was its quad headlights, which surrounded a fine waterfall grille. Out back, horizontal taillights with fine horizontal moldings created a semi-hidden effect, while a chrome molding on top of the taillights stopped short to expose back-up lamps. The effect gave the LeBaron a fancy look that further distinguished it from Plymouth and Dodge’s K-cars.

Interior appointments is where Chrysler distinguished the LeBaron from its lesser cousins. “Few cars offer LeBaron’s high mileage, luxury, and room for six,” Chrysler claimed. While it was once said that there would never be a small Chrysler, times change, and this was the sacrifice Chrysler was making for its own survival . . . and apparently the public was on board. A special Mark Cross Edition package for the convertible gave the LeBaron the kind of interior furnishings that you’d expect from a Chrysler plus a whole lot more: 2.6-liter four, TorqueFlite, air conditioning, power steering and brakes, leather and vinyl bucket seats with console and arm rest, dual seat-back recliners and matching carpet, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows and door locks, remote deck release, white power convertible top, tinted, tilt steering column, cruise control, intermittent windshield Color choices were either Mahogany Metallic or Pearl White.

This Pearl White 1982 Chrysler LeBaron convertible with the Mark Cross Edition package has only 2,100 miles on the odometer. As you’d expect from a car with this mileage, the paint, top, and interior are in original condition. If you’re a child of the 1980s and are looking for something special that captures the zeitgeist of the time, this $21,900 LeBaron is a nice find.

Click here for this ClassicCars.com Pick of the Day.

Meet the Original Porsche 911 Turbo Concept from the 1973 Frankfurt Auto Show

Car Culture

Motor Authority

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May 15, 2024

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Meet the Original Porsche 911 Turbo Concept from the 1973 Frankfurt Auto Show

It was at the 1973 Frankfurt auto show where Porsche first made it publicly known that it was working on a new high-powered 911. The car would be equipped with a turbocharged flat-6. It would eventually become the 930-generation 911 Turbo.

The announcement was made with the reveal of a concept, shown here following a restoration by its current owner to bring it back to its condition at its Frankfurt debut.

The car Porsche presented all those years ago didn’t actually have a working turbocharged engine. Due to delays in development, the automaker installed a naturally aspirated engine with a mock turbocharging system made from wood and painted to look like metal. The car was the first 911 to wear a “Turbo” script, though, in this case as a hand-painted graphic on its flanks.

It was based on a 1973 911 S, chassis number 9113300157, but given the wider body of the later production 911 Turbo, a huge rear wing, and larger-diameter Fuchs-style wheels.

Original Porsche 911 Turbo concept at the 1973 Frankfurt auto show

The concept would later be presented at a few additional shows and eventually used as a development mule for race car parts after production of the 911 Turbo got underway in 1974. It then entered private hands in 1975 when Alan Hamilton, a racing driver and Porsche’s importer for Australia, spotted the car during a Porsche factory visit and negotiated buying it.

The car has since traded hands several times and currently resides in Europe. It’s scheduled to make a public appearance at an event at Hampton Court Palace in the U.K. starting Aug. 30.

It isn’t considered to be the first 911 Turbo. That honor goes to a separate narrow-body car devoid of any “Turbo” markings but equipped with the 2.7-liter turbocharged flat-6, which was delivered to Louise Piëch, a daughter of Porsche founder Ferdinand Porsche, on her 70th birthday. That was also in 1973, albeit prior to that year’s Frankfurt auto show. That car is now in the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart.

HIGH-RES GALLERY: Original Porsche 911 Turbo concept

This article was originally published by Motor Authority, an editorial partner of ClassicCars.com