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Project Cars--You Get to Vote on "Hold 'em or Fold 'em"

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Comments

  • texasestexases Member Posts: 11,105
    I always thought those B210s were the bottom of the heap. $11,000? HAHAHAHAHA....

    What's a "NISMO VIN"?
  • steine13steine13 Member Posts: 2,825
    fintail said:

    Yeah, the Aerostar needs a preservationist, or it will be ran into the ground. I noticed the wheels too.


    A CLEAN 3-ROW VAN FOR $4900? WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE HERE?

    That one hurts a bit... I used to have a 92 extended-length van in that color. LOVED driving it. Great size, useful, simple and sturdy setup. No pass airbag meant the baby seat went in the front. Good times with the little one.

    I made it into a kind of half-a$$ed camper by putting a platform behind the 2nd-row bench seat. Alas...

    That thing cost more, mile per mile, than any of my other used cars and most of my new cars as well. Every few months, it would leak a fluid of a different color. I wised up and sold it after a couple years to buy a Toyota Sienna NEW in '03... which we still drive. The Aerostar was a good idea, poorly executed.
  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,265
    The '74 Impala Spirit of America is interesting but that's about it. A total barge with very bad driveability given it is the last year before HEI and catalytic converters made the experience somewhat more palatable. Here's a link to more info:

    http://www.impalas.com/blog/independence-day-special-the-1974-spirit-of-america-impala/

    The wheels used look like they were the ones offered on the early '70s Chevy pickup trucks, with a different paint treatment.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    ...and it has a gawd-awful Earl Scheib paintjob----that's can't be good.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    I would love a celica like that. Nothing else in that bunch interest me

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,718
    Those Aerostar vans with the body kit used to be popular in Canada. I noticed one of the pics had the mileage in KM's.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,938
    ab348 said:
    The '74 Impala Spirit of America is interesting but that's about it. A total barge with very bad driveability given it is the last year before HEI and catalytic converters made the experience somewhat more palatable. Here's a link to more info: http://www.impalas.com/blog/independence-day-special-the-1974-spirit-of-america-impala/ The wheels used look like they were the ones offered on the early '70s Chevy pickup trucks, with a different paint treatment.
    Lincoln did a very similar color scheme in 1987 with the Stars and Stripes Edition Town Car. 

    http://topclassiccarsforsale.com/lincoln/266023-1987-lincoln-town-car-stars-amp-stripes-edition-39340-original-miles.html

    My 89 LTC was a virtual twin except I had all blue interior.  

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,570
    D
    fintail said:
    Dad had a ‘ 66 Galaxie 500 4dr sedan with the same color exterior and interior as the ‘66 convertible. It was a company car w/289, PS, PB, auto. His next company car was a fairly plain medium blue ‘70 Ford Custom 500 w/302 but a big plus, it had a/c.

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    The first car I regularly drove was a 66 Galaxie 2 door HT, with a temperamental 390, I think a 4V. It was very cold blooded. The car was dark blue with the same interior as that convertible, I remember the pattern in the vinyl. My dad picked it up in maybe 1992 for something like a grand - these weren't too hard to come by in the PNW back then.

    sda said:

    D

    fintail said:



    Dad had a ‘ 66 Galaxie 500 4dr sedan with the same color exterior and interior as the ‘66 convertible. It was a company car w/289, PS, PB, auto. His next company car was a fairly plain medium blue ‘70 Ford Custom 500 w/302 but a big plus, it had a/c.

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    Out in the bright sunlight today, first drive in ~6 weeks:



    Started right up, I was very pleased. Ran as nicely as ever, I did notice a little blowby again. Most quirky quirk is the turn signals, they aren't working at all now. The last time I drove it they were intermittent, today I got maybe half a dozen blinks, then nothing. I think the assembly in the stalk/column has an issue.

    The old dear got lots of looks, and a honk and wave from a guy in a late model Tacoma TRD, of all things.
  • sdasda Member Posts: 7,570
    If fintail isn’t subject to a state or local safety inspection you can always use good old fashioned hand signals to indicate your intention. I wonder how many drivers would even recognize them.

    2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    No inspections here, we're even doing away with emissions tests soon. Funny thing, the car did have to pass an inspection to get the "Silver Star" badge on the grille, but everything was working then. Lucky.

    So far, I am just moving the stalk and blindly hoping. Might have to wait til the yearly service.
    sda said:

    If fintail isn’t subject to a state or local safety inspection you can always use good old fashioned hand signals to indicate your intention. I wonder how many drivers would even recognize them.

  • bhill2bhill2 Member Posts: 2,595
    I'd be willing to bet that there is at least one generation of drivers that have little or no knowledge of hand signals for indicating turns.

    2009 BMW 335i, 2003 Corvette cnv. (RIP 2001 Jaguar XK8 cnv and 1985 MB 380SE [the best of the lot])

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,265
    bhill2 said:

    I'd be willing to bet that there is at least one generation of drivers that have little or no knowledge of hand signals for indicating turns.

    I bet a number of new-generation drivers might wave back at you if you tried to use hand signals when turning.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 265,425
    I get hand signals all the time, while driving. ;)

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  • bhill2bhill2 Member Posts: 2,595
    kyfdx said:

    I get hand signals all the time, while driving. ;)

    Now THAT is a classic hand signal while driving. Been around for a l-o-o-o-ng time. And I’ve never seen a replacement for it, like for indicating turns.

    2009 BMW 335i, 2003 Corvette cnv. (RIP 2001 Jaguar XK8 cnv and 1985 MB 380SE [the best of the lot])

  • steine13steine13 Member Posts: 2,825
    Sometimes the old ways ARE the best ways!
  • omarmanomarman Member Posts: 2,702
    Hey I just got the winning bid on a Toyota here at the RM auction at Amelia Island. With under 12K miles it looks like the only project in this car is the $173,600 hammer price. Can somebody bail me out? I promise you, we're going to straighten all this stuff out...



    A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing.
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    A man could buy hisself a whole lotta nice machinery for $173K, all of which you could actually drive around.
  • andres3andres3 Member Posts: 13,923
    fintail said:

    Out in the bright sunlight today, first drive in ~6 weeks:



    Started right up, I was very pleased. Ran as nicely as ever, I did notice a little blowby again. Most quirky quirk is the turn signals, they aren't working at all now. The last time I drove it they were intermittent, today I got maybe half a dozen blinks, then nothing. I think the assembly in the stalk/column has an issue.

    The old dear got lots of looks, and a honk and wave from a guy in a late model Tacoma TRD, of all things.

    I wonder if you could win in Court for lack of Turn Signal use due to mechanical failure.

    I doubt it, but we'll never likely find out as Turn Signal use isn't on the revenue-generation scheme agenda.
    '18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    I suspect most cops would be kind to the driver of a car of this age, and let them off with a warning. I'd also claim "it just stopped working 5 minutes ago, and I was heading back to the garage". I'm not too worried, even if I don't get it fixed til the car goes in for its yearly maintenance in July.
    andres3 said:



    I wonder if you could win in Court for lack of Turn Signal use due to mechanical failure.

    I doubt it, but we'll never likely find out as Turn Signal use isn't on the revenue-generation scheme agenda.

  • berriberri Member Posts: 10,165
    I think a lot of traffic courts will dismiss the ticket if you provide proof of repair and often in that situation the police officer will issue a warning instead of a ticket initially. .
  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,938
    Years ago when I had my 93 Taurus the speedo cable was sticky and often reported under what you were doing.

    So late at night on a notorious road for getting nabbed, I had the cruise set on "64" in a 55. That was safe. Well turns out I was doing 71.

    Officer didn't give two sh*ts... wrote the ticket at 71 in a 55. I had the speedo cable replaced, and went to court with the receipt.

    Court didn't give a care either... stating it was on the owner of the car to ensure it is operating properly....BUT the prosecutor offered a change to a "no point violation" with a fine. OK Monty Hall, deal made.

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    I really like that Civic. would be leery of surprises lurking, especially at that price (seems high, but I am often surprised) and high miles. Though it does look super clean. Would be a super fun toy.

    years ago I had a prior generation to that Civic S. I think a 1985. Last year of the carb, before it became the Si. small, but super fun to bop around in.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • andres3andres3 Member Posts: 13,923
    edited March 2019
    berri said:

    I think a lot of traffic courts will dismiss the ticket if you provide proof of repair and often in that situation the police officer will issue a warning instead of a ticket initially. .

    I witnessed a trial (while awaiting my own) where a person had proof their speedometer was inaccurate, and had been repaired. The judge used that as evidence they were speeding, and the testimony was self-convicting! They'd of been better off pleading the 5th. They were found guilty. Maybe some judges would be more reasonable, but Traffic Court is not our Justice Systems' best foot forward.

    The speeding laws for maximum speed are absolute, and arbitrary. It doesn't matter why you were speeding, only that you were. This is why I advocate all speed limits should fall under the "basic speed laws" which includes a safety or hazard issue as an element of the crime.

    I feel like every officer in a trial by mail (declaration) has perjured themselves when they check the "unsafe speed" box.
    In maximum speed cases (CHP), no need for the box or to perjure themselves and dishonor any integrity they have left in their souls.
    '18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    tjc78 said:

    Lunch time South Jersey Craigs

    Feeling Lucky? https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/cherry-hill-1994-jaguar-xjs-convertible/6839602831.html

    I do feel lucky, but not THAT lucky. Besides, needs a new top---not cheap!



    Look cool, but get smoked by a V6 Camry https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/1984-first-year-style-corvette/6828745120.html

    Not a good choice in a C4 Vette--troublesome ignition system and an F.I. system that cannot be modified or improved.

    Seems cheap https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/clementon-1948-chrysler-windsor/6819662577.html

    That's a market correct price for "fair" condition.


    Didn't we just have one of these in Mystery Pix? https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/camden-buick-centurion-1972-convertible/6839443502.html

    Yes, you CAN "take it to a car show" but you certainly won't win anything with that engine bay and carpeting

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,265
    The Centurion has a few needs and not my favorite color interior in a drop top, but looks like not a bad deal overall.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    It's not a bad deal if there's no rust or some botched-up work somewhere.
  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    I think the Chrysler is a 49.
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    That actually lowers book value $500. You should have kept quiet! B)
  • texasestexases Member Posts: 11,105
    At least they swapped engines on the Jag, wonder which "V6"...
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Probably they just cut the I-6 in half and folded it and turned it sideways. A common modification.
  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,718
    I like watching this series.
    Lots of great old vehicles in Alaska, although I've seen episodes from other locations.
    https://youtu.be/ff9ixiYlvL0
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • bhill2bhill2 Member Posts: 2,595

    Probably they just cut the I-6 in half and folded it and turned it sideways. A common modification.

    But then, wouldn't the folded-over half be trying to drive the car backwards?

    2009 BMW 335i, 2003 Corvette cnv. (RIP 2001 Jaguar XK8 cnv and 1985 MB 380SE [the best of the lot])

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Yes, all Jaguars have 4 reverse gears.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    I keep finding more youtube channels for guys that either have shops or go out into junkyards and try to resurrect cars. I watch one, and next thing I know, another day is shot! Sadly, I could probably retire tomorrow and spend more time daily watching this stuff than I spend now working.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,718
    How about an 11K Bentley that lived in Russia?
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjA_DnhqCfI
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    he's nuts too.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,718
    You mean like those Crown Vic guys? I agree!
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,718
    @oldfarmer50,
    You have to consider, how did that battery replacement actually cost?
    Not just the cost of a battery.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    A tribute to stupid engineering, I must say--at least in some areas.
  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    Drove the old dear today, started right up and drove fine with no complaints. Still no turn signals though, well, two blinks and then no signals. Weird. No gratuitous pics this time.

    These early W220s are a smorgasbord of potential money pit issues - and this one is attractive anyway. Perfect spec, rare high option car, low mileage, wonderful color, eventually mint examples will be quite rare.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    pretty car. looks nice and comfy.

    and what has the world come to, when this is on BaT? At least, finally one I could afford if I wanted it. Maybe.

    https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1977-datsun-200sx/

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,733
    My FIL is talking about trading his 2008 MGM with 140k miles. Says he’d be happy to get $1k for it. I’m pondering taking it off his hands, fixing some issues it has, and kicking it down the road. 

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,408
    Guilty pleasure, I like those Datsuns. I have a couple diecast models of that style. Looks better than 99% of survivors, but good luck finding a dash pad. I remember when I was a in grade school, I knew a kid who's mom had one like that. Even in the 80s, it was a weird car.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    the auto trans though just kills it.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,938
    qbrozen said:

    My FIL is talking about trading his 2008 MGM with 140k miles. Says he’d be happy to get $1k for it. I’m pondering taking it off his hands, fixing some issues it has, and kicking it down the road. 

    Do it!! With your skills you could easily throw dual exhaust on and grab a higher ratio rear from Vic police car which will really wake it up. Unless it was an HPP (super rare by 08), it's 2.73 rear. Is it a fleet or retail version? If it has the heated seats and wood steering wheel, it most likely was a retail sale. No power passenger seat and no rear air suspension would mean fleet.

    In all honesty they are kinda fun to beat the snot out of. You really can't kill them.

    As an FYI my 04 sold 2.5 years ago I got $3200 for with 100K. It was probably a solid 8 out of 10 condition wise

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 33,733
    tjc78 said:


    Do it!! With your skills you could easily throw dual exhaust on and grab a higher ratio rear from Vic police car which will really wake it up. Unless it was an HPP (super rare by 08), it's 2.73 rear. Is it a fleet or retail version? If it has the heated seats and wood steering wheel, it most likely was a retail sale. No power passenger seat and no rear air suspension would mean fleet.

    In all honesty they are kinda fun to beat the snot out of. You really can't kill them.

    As an FYI my 04 sold 2.5 years ago I got $3200 for with 100K. It was probably a solid 8 out of 10 condition wise

    He bought it new from the dealer. Other than cloth bench, not sure what other options it may or may not have. It does have what we deemed "the Florida package" with gold emblems, wheel spats, and carriage roof.

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,938
    If it's cloth inside it may be a GS. At some point they stopped making the lower trim, maybe it was 09. Even better no electronic HVAC, or rear air suspension.

    Mine had the carriage roof and chrome wheel moldings. I removed the moldings and somehow there was not rust under them.

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

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