The 2022 Barrett-Jackson Houstonauction starts tomorrow morning at the NRG Center. Filled with great cars, vintage Automobilia, and exciting Thrill Rides and Hot Laps the three-day events runs from Thursday, October 20 through Saturday, October 22. If you can’t make it to Houston, you can watch the auction on FYI, and HISTORY Channel.
TV SCHEDULE
Thursday, October 20 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE on fyi,
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM CDT BarrettJackson.TV (International Viewers Only)
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE encore presentation on fyi,
Friday, October 21 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE on fyi,
12:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT BarrettJackson.TV (International Viewers Only)
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE encore presentation on fyi,
Saturday, October 22 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE on fyi,
2:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE on HISTORY
12:00 PM – 7:00 PM CDT BarrettJackson.TV (International Viewers Only)
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM CDT Barrett-Jackson LIVE encore presentation on fyi,
AUCTION SCHEDULE
Thursday, October 20
8:00 AM to Auction Close Gates, Sponsor Displays and Exhibitor Marketplace Open
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Dodge and Toyota Thrill Rides Barrett-Jackson Performance Track, adjacent to the auction arena.
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Cadillac and Chevrolet Hot Laps Barrett-Jackson Performance Track, adjacent to the auction arena.
Remember when you could go to Los Angeles and Rolls-Royces were everywhere? Though pricey, they were conventional … and then the automotive world became unconventional and tech-y. Rolls-Royce needed to change its approach so, fresh with a new owner (BMW) and an influx of cash, the company from Goodwood reimagined itself as an imposing presence on the boulevard stuffed with horsepower, tech and swagger. Today, the modern Rolls-Royce is truly a rare thing, available for the select few who demand the kind of distinction that a $200,000 Mercedes simply won’t provide.
Rolls-Royce now has stepped up to the plate to take its position up a notch with the Spectre, its first fully electric motor car. What will the status slaves say about this? Before we get into the social commentary, let’s examine the new Rolls.
Rolls-Royce Spectre
The company feels the Spectre “demonstrates how perfectly Rolls-Royce is suited for electrification.” This is indisputable considering how many high-end brands have been playing around with electrification technology, like when Ferrari introduced the SF90 Stradale. “A Ferrari Prius? Satan has won!” you may have screamed several years ago, yet the world continues to plug along, and Ferrari continues to raise the bar.
“Spectre’s all-electric powertrain will assure the marque’s sustained success and relevance while dramatically increasing the definition of each characteristic that makes a Rolls-Royce a Rolls-Royce.” If you speak American, it seems to be saying that no matter how personal transportation evolves, you can expect Rolls-Royce to seize upon new aspects of automotive evolution and make them distinctly Rolls.
Rolls-Royce Spectre
Charles Stewart Rolls, the co-founder of Rolls-Royce, recognized this way back in 1900. In fact, he recognized this with EVs: “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration. They should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged.” The Brits prob would use the word “prescient” but, to a marketing guy, he or she would say it is on-brand. The powers-that-be at Rolls-Royce today call that “a prophecy fulfilled.”
And since it’s a Rolls-Royce, the number of hoops the Spectre had to jump through during development would be worthy of a generation of slaves: a journey of more than 1,500,000 miles simulating 400 years of use. All this R&D pays off not only for the Spectre, but also for the brand itself because Rolls-Royce is dedicated to a complete EV portfolio by 2030.
Rolls-Royce Spectre
But enough of Rolls-Royce talking about itself — what’s the deal with the Spectre? The company likes to think it has created an Ultra-Luxury Electric Super Coupé. It’s a reference to the “indulgent” proportions “specified in response to a commitment that there is no greater luxury than that of space.” Alright, a false start — what’s the deal with the Spectre? It looks like the Rolls-Royce of today, yet it so happens that it’s an EV. The company claims it’s the most aerodynamic Rolls, with a coefficient of drag of 0.25.
Rolls-Royce Spectre
In profile, the Spectre resembles a yacht, and why not? It likely will cost as much as one, though its design was inspired by fastback Phantom Coupé. Those who go to the bar for Trivia Night will love the fact that the Spectre is the first production two-door coupé that rides on 23-inch wheels in almost one hundred years (no, Master P was not the first to do this).
Rolls-Royce Spectre
The famous grille is illuminated with 22 LEDs lighting the rear side of each vane. Inside, it’s what you’d expect a Rolls-Royce to be. No cow here will have to deal with the indignity of having its hide used in a Vauxhall. An interesting option is the Starlight Doors, which incorporates almost 4,800 softly illuminated lights that simulate shining stars at night. This was a feature in the headliner of the Phantom Coupé, and now the sky has been flipped on its side. There also is an over-the-top nameplate on the dashboard with similar illumination, though this one inspires door envy as it features over 5,000 stars.
An all-aluminum spaceframe, which includes extruded aluminum sections and the integration of the battery in the structure, enables the Spectre to be 30% stiffer than any Rolls-Royce up to this point. Rolls may brag about the resultant low seating position or 1,500 pounds of sound deadening to distinguish it from the groundlings.
Rolls-Royce Spectre
Yes, you read that right. Perhaps the 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds is impressive for such a large and heavy vehicle, but wasn’t Colin Chapman British too? To achieve that speed, Rolls-Royce would have said in the past that the power output was “adequate” but preliminary data shows there will be 900Nm of torque from its 430kW powertrain, and that it will be able to travel 320 miles on a single charge, which is typical for EVs of all price classes. Egalitarian? Bite your tongue!
So, what does that leave us? A four-wheeled, 6,500-pound virtue signal that gives the finger to the oil companies (though with extended pinkie) yet is a symbol of conspicuous consumption. Get with the program, Daddy-O and hail the new King!
This past Saturday, October 15, 2022, marked the beginning of the events that make up the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival. The day began with something that, if you have not yet had your coffee in the morning, I then advise to turn back immediately and drink that first cup or three to better prepare you for what comes next. That event is the first time Hagerty’s Concours d’Lemons has darkened the streets of Chattanooga.
Being a first-time event — and a Lemons event at that — I had low expectations of what I would see, if not judge, as my friend Alan Galbraith (originator of the idea of a concours for the unloved) had volunteered me to play that role.
All kidding aside, the show field featured more than 30 cars, all of them either unexceptional, truly bad or ones with interesting custom modifications. The common denominator among them all was the enthusiastic and fun owners.
From a group of cars with custom mods, we had a pair of truly extraordinary “art cars.” For those not in-the-know, an art car is a vehicle that has been transformed into a true sculpture-on-wheels. There is an entire scene around art cars, and they vary from being truly awful to the extraordinary. The winning art car at the Chattanooga Lemons event was a 1997 Honda Civic owned by Kathryn Warren that was a tribute to the Rolling Stones. It was amazing that the car could move under its own power because, with the addition of the sculpture, it had to weigh close to 7,000 lbs. Even more amazing was the fact that the entire sculpture was created by a group of high school students. While a crazy-looking car, it was an fantastic sculpture on wheels.
Another crowd favorite was the winner of the Needlessly Complex Italian award, a 1987 Pontiac Mera (a Fiero with a Ferrari 308-inspired body) owned by Natalie Rauls. I have seen a number of these cars over the years, with this specific vehicle, finished in Fly Yellow, being the nicest example I have laid eyes on.
It may appear that there is a car that, while in poor condition, does not seem to belong: a Plymouth Road Runner Superbird. This car, though in rough shape, utilized a real, honest-to-goodness vintage NASCAR chassis around which the owner built the body. The owner had no idea as to what it originally was or who raced it, but he did mention that he paid $1500 for it about a year ago. Notice the person in one of the pictures of this vehicle — it is none other than Ray Evernham.
A different vehicle altogether was the winner of the Slightly Better Than a Go Kart class, a 1985 Honda CRX “Tie Fighter” owned by Rick Stern. Of course, in the spirit of the Concours d’Lemons, Rick and a friend showed their cosplay hand with cheap Darth Vader and Yoda costumes and staged a light saber battle in front of the Tie Fighter.
My two favorite cars of the event, aside of the Superbird, were the 1972 Dodge Colt owned by Nate Smith and the 1978 Pontiac Sunbird Safari wagon owned by Larry Leitz. The Colt was the wildest thing I have seen of 1970s Japanese vehicles. The owner had installed every factory performance option that was available when new, including a cam, twin Solex 40 side-draft carburetors, headers and much more. Horsepower increased from the stock 83 up to an amazing 116 horses. Not only did none of us judges knew that there were options like this but, also, we were stunned that this car had the whole catalog thrown at it. The Colt won the Worst of Class award in the Rust Belt American Junk Mopar Class.
The other car, a 1978 Pontiac Sunbird Sport Safari wagon, won the coveted Worst of Show award. This was a truly exceptional car and had been very well restored by owner Larry Leitz, though slightly modified using rare Vega wagon parts for the rear side windows, something Pontiac never used on the Sunbird.
If you are a car enthusiast and have never attended a Concours d’Lemons event, then you owe it to yourself to go to the next one that is near you. Better yet, go buy a Chrysler K car or something much worse and enter the show. I am not aware of another way to have more fun in the collector car hobby.
Show Winners Worst of Show: Larry Leitz, 1978 Pontiac Sunbird Sport Safari Wagon Rust Belt American Junk – GM: James Loven, 1983 Chevrolet Chevette Rust Belt American Junk – Mopar: Nathan Smith, 1972 Dodge Colt Rust Belt American Junk – Ford: Daniel Wright, 1969 Ford Fairlane 500 Rust Belt American Junk – Other: Johnathan Clark, 1964 AMC Rambler Needlessly Complex Italian: Natalie Rauls, 1987 Pontiac Mera DerSelfSatisfiedKrautenWagen: Rick Stern, 1958 Borgward Kommunist Kars: Jeff Lane, 1947 Tatra Royal Order of MOT Failure (British): Kelly Ott, 1951 Morris Minor Swedish Meatballs: Derrick Nash, 1988 Volvo 240 Soul Sucking Japanese Appliance: George Aslinger, 1971 Datsun 510 Slightly Better Than a Go Kart: Rick Stern, 1985 Honda CRX Tie Fighter Sight for Sour Eyes: Kathryn Warren, 1997 Honda Civic Rolling Stones Art Car Driving on a Prayer: James Brodowski, 1995 Saturn SW2 Best Backseat: Kurt Lammon, 1967 Chrysler Newport
So you want to be a classic car collector? It’s not a bad life if you can afford it. But before you start spending your hard-earned cash on vintage vehicles, there are a few things you should know. This blog post will give you tips for aspiring classic car collectors. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been collecting cars for years, these tips will help you refine your process and get the most out of your collection.
This is probably the most important tip for aspiring classic car collectors. You need to know what you’re looking for before you start buying cars. Read books and magazines, talk to other collectors, and join online forums to learn as much as you can about classic cars. Once you’ve done your research, you’ll be able to spot a good deal when you see one.
Set a budget.
It’s easy to get carried away when you’re buying classic cars, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Determine how much money you’re willing to spend on your collection, and don’t go over that amount.
Buy what you like.
One of the best things about collecting classic cars is that you can buy the ones you love. So if you’re passionate about a certain make or model, don’t be afraid to splurge on it. You’ll enjoy your collection more if you have cars that you’re excited about.
Choose wisely.
Not all classic cars are created equal. Some are better investments than others, so it’s important to choose wisely when building your collection. If you’re not sure which cars are worth your money, consult a professional appraiser or car specialist. They’ll be able to help you find the best deals.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate.
Remember, the price isn’t set in stone. If you think a car is overpriced, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Many sellers are willing to come down on their asking price, so it’s always worth a shot.
Get a pre-purchase inspection.
Before you buy a classic car, make sure you get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. This will help you avoid any expensive surprises down the road.
Join a classic car club.
Joining a classic car club is a great way to meet other collectors and learn more about the hobby. There are clubs for all different makes and models of cars, so you’re sure to find one that’s right for you.
Attend classic car shows.
Classic car shows are a great way to see some of the world’s most beautiful cars up close and in person. They’re also a great place to meet other collectors and find out about upcoming events.
Store your cars properly.
If you want your classic cars to stay in good condition, you need to store them properly. Keep them in a climate-controlled garage or storage facility, and make sure they’re covered when they’re not in use.
Insure your collection.
Make sure you insure your classic car collection against theft, fire, and other damage. This will protect your investment and give you peace of mind. Work with machinery movers to get your new machines from the dealer to your business when purchasing heavy machinery.
Design your garage.
While you can store your classic cars just about anywhere, it’s best to have a designated area for them. This could be a separate garage or simply a section of your home’s garage. Keep this area clean and organized, and make sure only authorized people have access to it.
Following these tips will help you become a successful classic car collector. So if you’re thinking about starting a collection, be sure to keep these things in mind. Happy collecting!
A huge ingredient of the joy in being a collector car owner is connecting with members of the community who drive the same model. Since the late 1990s, the Acura NSX Club of America (NSXCA) has come together each year for an annual meet called “NSXPO.” This year, Arizona played host to the convention and in so doing attracted upwards of $8-10 million in cars to the region.
Photo by Rebecca Nguyen
The flagship mid-engined NSX supercar first debuted in Japan under the Honda nameplate in 1990 and was introduced to the Acura lineup in North America the following year. Its first generation, ranging from model year 1991 through 2005, sold about 9,000 units over the 15-year span. The NSX managed to deliver a reliable ownership experience combined with both exotic styling and excellent balance. Even though its horsepower output in stock form was rated at fewer than 300 ponies, its all-aluminum chassis made it a lightweight and nimble machine suited for canyon carving.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
After a hiatus, the second generation NSX came to market in 2017 with very different type of recipe for performance driving: this time, it came as a twin-turbocharged hybrid V6 connected to three electric motors. As the brand’s halo car, it sold relatively few units but offered undisputed sportscar expertise, including setting a production car lap record at the Long Beach Grand Prix. Acura elected to discontinue the car after 2022, but in so doing, ramped up its horsepower to an even 600 with a Type S variant for the final year. Production for that model was limited to just 350 units for North America.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
NSXPO 2022 festivities kicked off with a two-day track event at the newly-constructed Podium Club facility about an hour from Phoenix where drivers put cars through their paces. A larger crowd began to assemble in Scottsdale two days later for the social component of the event. Playing host to the roughly 250 participants and 120 vehicles in attendance was the Talking Stick Resort & Casino in Scottsdale. A number of sponsors contributed to the success of the program, including Acura itself as one of the top-tier contributors.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
The schedule was action-packed with a variety of attractions for the group. The 140-acre Desert Botanical Garden at Papago Park provided a vivid dusk setting for an opening reception after attendees picked up their credentials and goodie bags. A mariachi band showed up with entertainment to spice things up.
On Friday, a 200-mile drive loop introduced NSXCA members to some of the scenery and attractions of the Mogollon Rim near Payson. The Chaparral Pines Golf Club welcomed the group for a flow-through lunch, and an excursion to Tonto Natural Bridge offered a glimpse at the world’s largest travertine arch. That night, after a group photo, dinner was hosted by Right Honda and Right Toyota at an exclusive vehicle storage and maintenance facility just a few minutes from the host hotel. A charity program held for Baller Dream Foundation, an organization benefitting young individuals who are battling cancer, raised over $6,000 thanks to generosity of club members.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
Saturday’s key events began with a vendor showcase ScienceofSpeed, a specialty facility that for 20 years has pioneered performance parts and services for the Acura NSX and Honda S2000 models. Judging was held there for awards to be distributed later that evening. Adding to the adventure was an isolated and unexpected thunderstorm that created drama for the many folks who rarely take their NSXs out in inclement weather. Luckily, the weather passed without incident and there were plenty of microfiber towels to go around afterward.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
Finally, NSXPO 2022 capped off back at the Talking Stick Resort with a cocktail hour and closing banquet dinner. On display inside the ballroom were a rare 1-of-50 1999 NSX Alex Zanardi Edition and a 2022 NSX Type S. The program consisted of sponsor recognition, a tribute to club members who passed away, an auction, and awards. NSXCA member Ken Sax from Chicago was recognized for his perfect attendance record at every NSXPO since 1997. The long-distance award went to Ole Sorenson who drove his Nord Gray Metallic NSX over 2,800 miles from Sarasota, Florida to Scottsdale. Nine other awards were handed over in a variety of categories to proud owners.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
What’s next for the NSX family? The show will go on! An announcement was made about the chosen location for next year’s event: NSXPO 2023 will head east to Atlanta, Georgia with a targeted event timeframe of October.
As the NSX model ends production with the Type S model this year, Acura considers this the car’s “victory lap.” It remains to be seen if or when Acura will bring the model back for a third generation in the future. Perhaps by that time, it will rely upon a fully electrified powertrain.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
Without a doubt, the NSX Club of America and its devout members will be there to welcome it.
Photo by Tyson Hugie
To see more about the NSXCA, visit the club’s website.
I’ve seen a lot of classic cars advertised as a “Time Capsule”, but very few can take you back in time with a simple glance. This isn’t a knock on a preserved classic with all original trimmings and the like, but more of the idea that certain vehicles absolutely reflect a specific time and culture. Vintage VW Bugs are a solid example because you can’t absolutely associate one with a certain era as they belong to numerous times. That’s also a biproduct of their high production numbers over numerous decades, but you get the point.
1974 Ford Econoline van
If I see a 1966 Mustang, I’ll associate it with its development as the first Pony Car and how it altered the American automotive industry, but it can also conjure up notions of a Shelby GT500 and motorsports. Same car but with different connotations. That said, a custom van belongs to only one era and is an absolute time capsule.
“No single vehicle better represents the good times and easy-living lifestyle of the 1970s better than does a custom van,” the listing states. “The personalized van covered all the bases. It was part muscle car, part apartment on wheels, and, of course, part art canvas, serving as a very groovy way to express oneself.”
1974 Ford Econoline van
It’s a true time capsule with 873 miles. The airbrushed mountain range and graphics, plus the porthole bubble windows on each side typify a certain time and place: mid-1970s in America. The Cragar wheels and side pipes also adds to the exceptional flavor.
“A swing of any door takes us back to 1974 shag-alicious heaven that covers nearly every square inch of the interior,” the listing states. “Light gray extra-long shag material is peppered throughout with some black and is as clean as the day it was installed. A rear platform bed is now installed and is covered with…shag!”
1974 Ford Econoline van
Under the hood is a 302ci V8 engine with a single two-barrel carburetor. The engine is paired with a 3-speed manual that sends power to a Ford 9-inch rear axle.
The dealer is asking $69,500 for this 1974 Ford Econoline van. It’s a true time capsule with low mileage and a distinct vibe.
After Cadillac’s long flirtation with alphabet soup, it seems like General Motors’ American luxury brand is starting to straighten up and fly right with proper names. First came the Lyriq (currently available for pre-order, though drive around Detroit and you’ll find ‘em), and now we have the Celestiq.
Don’t think of the Celestiq (pronounced “seh-leh-stick”) as a replacement for the CT6 — think of it as the heir apparent for the late, lamented Eldorado Brougham that was built from 1957-60. The new sedan will be a hand-built $300,000 electric saloon that’s the most advanced, most luxurious and most important vehicle Cadillac has ever produced.
“Celestiq is the purest expression of Cadillac, acknowledging our incredible history and driving us to a bolder and brighter future,” says Rory Harvey, who’s Cadillac’s Global Vice President. “It is a completely bespoke work of automotive art, built around the most advanced and innovative technology that we have ever engineered into an automobile.”
Cadillac Celestiq
Perhaps for the first time since the dawn of World War II, Cadillac will build a truly bespoke vehicle. Each Celestiq will be personally commissioned, so chances of seeing one at your local Cadillac dealer will be almost nil. Individual clients will collaborate with a designated concierge from selected dealers and Cadillac designers to realize every vision for the vehicle with personalization up the wazoo, “a one-of-one combination of artistry, authenticity, craftsmanship and unparalleled refinement.”
“Celestiq is like no Cadillac before it and the client experience is equally exceptional,” adds Harvey. “Each vehicle is a unique expression of its owner, leveraging leading-edge technologies that make the driving experience personal and rewarding.”
Cadillac Celestiq
The new Cadillac (“Caddy” seems so gauche right now) is based on EV architecture called the Ultium Platform. It combines a 111-kWh battery pack and a two-motor, all-wheel drive system for an estimated 600 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. That’s good and all, but for how far? Cadillac estimates driving range will be 300 miles on a full charge. Acceleration will be a segment-leading 3.8 seconds to 60.
For you techies out there, the Celestiq’s battery cells are mounted horizontally, allowing Cadillac to design a long, low and lean boulevardier. This also lowers the center of gravity for enhanced interior space and better handling and ride comfort. Contributing to the handing and ride are Adaptive Air Suspension, Active Rear Steering, Magnetic Ride Control, Active Roll Control, Active Rear Spoiler and Electric Power Steering. In other words, your inner shade-tree mechanic will have to retire.
Cadillac Celestiq
Charging is the bane of every EV’s existence. Cadillac’s take on this is that its 200 kW DC fast charging system will be able to add approximately 78 miles of battery power for only 10 minutes of charging. Celestiq owners will also have access to more than 110,000 charging points in the U.S. and Canada. Plus, the myCadillac Mobile app will assist in finding charging stations, real-time charger availability and more.
If you’re a techie but prefer gasoline to electricity, perhaps the following feature will interest you more than the above? There also are over 300 fabricated pieces throughout the structure, chassis, interior, and electrical components. Cadillac calls this “Flex Fabrication,” which is akin to metallic origami. No word on whether Cadillac will include an origami bird in the glovebox when boredom sets in.
Cadillac Celestiq
The Celestiq, as well as the Lyriq, implement a new design philosophy that takes Cadillac into the future (though admittedly the vertical headlights are missed). “Everyone poured their passions into Celestiq,” says Erin Crossley, the model’s design director. “The result is an automobile that redefines luxury through the experiences it offers its driver and passengers.” The fastback profile, though contemporary today, does have a legacy with the Sedanet from the 1940s. Cadillac likes to call the design “avant-garde,” and while we try to stay away from press release blathering, let’s observe what would make Cadillac characterize the Celestiq that way:
Fixed Smart Glass Roof with Suspended Particle Device Technology.
Carbon fiber to facilitate the creation of distinctive forms not possible with traditional metal forms.
3D printing One-hundred fifteen 3D printed parts are used in the Celestiq, with the steering wheel center being the largest printed metal part, and the seat belt adjustable guide loop is GM’s first safety-related 3D printed part.
Exterior lighting including 1,600 LEDs including Digital Micromirror Device headlamps with 1.3 million pixels, plus cascading illumination when the Celestiq senses a nearby key fob.
Power open/close doors — notice there are no door handles.
Twenty-three-inch wheels in “countless” colors, all paired with Michelins adorned with the Cadillac Precision pattern on the sidewall.
Cadillac Celestiq
Inside, Celestiq clients will be treated to immersive interior lighting and embellishments that “embody Cadillac’s vision for exclusivity and customization.” According to Tristan Murphy, the Celestiq’s interior design manager, “With Celestiq, we’ve been able to push classic American luxury into a new modern space. Executed with exceptional craftmanship, there is a staggering variety of colors, trims and genuine materials that ensure no two vehicles will ever be alike.” There are over 450 LEDs in the interior, with customization or self-curated lighting combinations available if the 18 lighting choreographies are not enough.
If you thought an infotainment center the size of an iPad was ridiculous, what will you think of the Celestiq? A 55-inch-diagonal HD screen is one of five high-def displays. Even rear passengers will have their own 12.6-inch-diagonal display on the front seatbacks.
All this is overwhelming, yet it’s possible we haven’t even scratched the surface of all the new-fangled features for Cadillac’s new flagship. If you have the kind of coin to afford such a chariot and you fancy yourself as an early-adopter, then your car has arrived.
A rare and private look at Kansas’ Nobody Else’s Auto salvage yard.
One of several complete cars at Nobody Else’s Auto is this 1950 Studebaker Champion Regal Deluxe Starlight coupe. It sports the first-year “bullet nose” styling.
Having had a father who dragged home Pontiac and Buick parts cars when he was a kid, it’s not surprising Old Cars reader Chad Ehrlich eventually made the parts business a career. Always being around cars while working with his dad eventually led Ehrlich to start a yard in Great Bend, Kan., in 2011, which goes by the unique name Nobody Else’s Auto. Until she recently left for college, Ehrlich’s daughter, Addie, was also a big part of Nobody Else’s Auto, making it a three-generation hobby.
The inventory of Nobody Else’s Auto contains nearly 2,000 vehicles, mostly vintage and mostly ranging from the 1940s to the 1980s, but there are many vehicles from the 1920s and 1930s, as well as 1990s and 2000s. Cars and trucks are neatly arranged in rows spread over 20 acres. The yard is not open to browsing, but much of the inventory can be seen on Ehrlich’s YouTube channels (Nobody’s Show) and Facebook page (Nobody Else’s Auto). If a customer sees a part they need, they must call him by phone to complete their purchase and verify their part need.
“There are so many variables with these old vehicles that a short phone call is the only way I can ensure you are looking for the right part you need,” Ehrlich says.
Customers calling with a part request must identify their car’s year, make, model and body style, and the specific name of the part they need. In addition to parts sales, Ehrlich also sells whole cars and trucks.
A desirable 1970 Dodge Challenger has been picked of some components, but retains many additional donor-quality parts.
Besides his phone sales, Ehrlich sells many parts on eBay with as many as 1,400 items listed at one time. As a result, he’s well equipped to ship parts to customers all over the world.
Ehrlich also hosts a popular weekly YouTube video program that provides further insight into his business, as well as the hobby in general.
Even the 1934 Ford truck is famous among the hot rod crowd, but this Model BB V-8-powered tanker truck is near complete and deserves a restoration to its original form.Suffering glass damage, there’s enough remaining of this 1957 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer four-door hardtop to see it made road-worthy again.The much-maligned Chevrolet Vega is represented in the yard by this near-complete 1976 two-door station wagon partially hidden by tall grass. It sports the $53 optional roof rack.Finned late-’50s and early-’60s Cadillacs of all body styles are hot, and this 1960 Cadillac Series 62 six-window sedan deserves to return to the road.At the time of our visit, yard owner Chad Ehrlich said he had three of these original Dodge Red Ram Hemi V-8s in inventory.This 1959 Ford Custom Ranchero pickup has suffered rust-through around its lower rear body panels, but retains donor-quality unique parts, such as its doors, tailgate and rear window.Another near-complete car is this 1958 Rambler Custom Cross Country station wagon that would be a fitting restoration project for a young family to undertake and then use on vacations.Another prime restoration candidate in inventory is this 1955 Buick Special Riviera two-door hardtop. It lacks only minor trim items.The Nash Metropolitan has a devoted following among car collectors, and this 1960 coupe example is complete, but needs a cosmetic overhaul.Complete down to its hubcaps is this 1959 Plymouth Belvedere four-door sedan that appears as if it could be driven out of the yard.Vintage trucks are abundant in Nobody Else’s Auto inventory, including this 1946 Chevrolet Model DP pickup that’s seen hard use.One of several old-timers in the yard is what’s left of this wood-spoke, late-1920s International truck.Representing the 50th anniversary year of Willys, this 1953 Aero Falcon Super Deluxe four-door sedan is near complete and rare. Just 3,116 were produced.Still sporting lots of donor-quality parts, including its grille, is this 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 Club Sedan four-door.
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If you live in LA and have a classic car, you know how important it is to keep your beloved vehicle safe from thieves and other types of damage. But how do you do this if your car is an older model? The tips below will help you keep your classic car secure in Los Angeles.
Never leave your car idling
Idling can be expensive and harmful to the environment, so it’s best to avoid it whenever possible. Not only that, but leaving your car running when you step out for a minute gives theives plenty of opportunity to strike. So don’t leave your vehicle as an easy target!
You may also want to consider turning off all unnecessary accessories when parked or waiting—including lights and radios—to save battery power and prevent vandals from spotting an easy target for theft.
Never keep spare keys in the car or unsecured outside your house
We’ve all left our keys under the doormat or in a plant pot at one point or another. This is a major risk factor for theft, as the thief can use your spare key to make a copy and then break into the car, or simply drive off with it. Always keep your spare key somewhere else that’s not connected to your vehicle (e.g., at home in a secure lock box) and make sure not to tell others where you’ve hid them, unless it’s someone who needs access to your car.
Keep your car in a garage when you’re not using it
A garage is the best way to keep your classic car safe from the elements, and it’s also a great way to keep it safe from thieves. Thieves might break into your home if they know you have a valuable car, so keeping it in a garage or storage space is important.
If you don’t have a garage or a secure place to leave your car at home, monthly parking in LA is relatively easy to come by.
If you must park outside, consider installing motion-detecting lights around the perimeter of where you park your vehicle. If someone breaks in while your car is parked outside at night, these lights will go on and alert neighbors who can call police for help.
Invest in steering wheel locks
If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to keep your classic car secure, steering wheel locks are a great choice. They come in many different styles and can be purchased with or without keys. They’re usually very easy to install on your own, but if you need help finding the right one for your car or have trouble installing it, many auto repair shops will help you out for a small fee.
However, steering wheel locks aren’t the perfect solution—they can easily be defeated by thieves who have enough time on their hands. But, they’re better than nothing because they deter would-be thieves from trying to steal your vehicle in the first place – they might look elsewhere for an easier target. And since there’s no real installation required after purchase (you just slide them onto the steering wheel), you can have your car safe and secure in just a minute or two.
Always park your car in well-lit areas
Leaving your car unattended during the day is better than doing so at night, and parking in a well-lit area is better than in a dark area. Also, parking near other cars is better than in an isolated area; there’s safety in numbers and a single car is an easier target than one parked in a busy street in broad daylight.
Don’t leave valuables in your car
Your car itself might be the most valuable thing you own, but don’t forget about the things you have stored inside it too.
Don’t leave anything in your car that’s of obvious value—this includes loose change, jewelry, or even an expensive-looking phone case. Thieves know how valuable these things can be, even if they don’t know what they are. Even if you think nothing will happen to them, it’s always better to play it safe than sorry.
Be sure that all valuables are removed from inside before leaving your car; nothing ruins an afternoon spent wandering around town like finding out after returning home that everything was stolen while we were away!
Keep your registration up-to-date and on hand at all times
If you don’t have your registration on hand, then it will be difficult for the police or tow truck driver to prove that your vehicle belongs to you when they arrive at the scene of an accident or theft situation involving your vehicle.
Keep the vehicle off limits to anyone but the family members who need to drive it
You’ll want your classic car off limits to anyone but family members who need to drive it. If you have a garage, keep the vehicle locked in there when not in use. You can also consider having a hidden switch installed that turns power off when the car is not in use, ensuring that no one can start it up and drive away undetected.
If you don’t have a garage or just don’t feel comfortable keeping your classic car locked up all the time, then at least do yourself another favor by making sure only family members know where the keys are kept so they can get into the vehicle if necessary (and hopefully not for joyrides!).
Conclusion
Whether you simply drive your classic car to work throughout the week or plan on taking it out for an auto show, there are steps that you can take to make sure that your ride is secure when you’re not around. We hope these tips above have helped you find the perfect solution for keeping your classic car secure.
Without Packard the automotive world would not be what it is today. Packard had a history of innovation.
In 1948, fancy top-priced Packard Custom Eight convertibles were the cars of choice for popular band leader Spike Jones and singer Dorothy Shay
What if there had never been a Packard Motor Car Co.?
Let’s say that, if Packard had never existed to innovate certain features and improvements in its new cars year after year for more than half a century, perhaps no other car company may have offered the same advancements. Granted, this is a real stretch, and, logically, most of the advancements pioneered by Packard were likely to have eventually been introduced by other car companies. But simply for the sake of fun on what might not have been, let’s take a jaunt through the list of Packard improvements for the industry.
No Packard? No steering wheel. The advancement was popularized and added to production Packards for 1901. Imagine if no other company had come up with the idea. What would have been the substitute? Levers? Individual hand grips? Imagine driving a car today using levers!
Automatic spark advance was another introduction. Today, with the rise of electric cars, and even in the steam-car era before World War II, spark advancement seemed beside the point, unless you had an internal combustion engine. No Packard, no spark advance? Perhaps.
Packard was a master builder of straight-eight motors and pioneered the first successful production Twelve. The year was 1915 for the latter. When that massive engine block bowed, it was a “zippity-doo-dah day” for the industry. In some respects, it marked the advent of a horsepower craze that continued to recent years. Imagine, no Packard, then perhaps no horsepower race as we knew it.
Air conditioning. Yes, another Packard first. The company was first to introduce air-conditioned comfort to production cars in 1940, and motoring has been a cooler experience since. The innovation caught on and by the end of the 1960s, half of all new automobiles sold were equipped with air conditioning.
The H-shift pattern was a choice Packard promoted. It took some time before it became widely used. A simple invention? Yes, but logical and handy, and it caught on.
Hydraulic shocks. Yes, if there was no Packard, who knows what cars would have used to cushion road shock.
Torsion-Level ride graced many fine Packards in 1955 and 1956. No one seems to have stepped forward to say Packard was not the perfecter and promoter, even though the idea arose from a Hudson man who offered the idea to that company before sliding it to Packard. Still, it was Packard and select Clipper models that “wowed” the public with the slick-ride principles of smoothness. Chrysler went with partial torsion bars, General Motors liked its air suspension motif. But it remained to be realized if any other car company in the New World ever greased the track with this Torsion-Level invention.
Firsts are not readily proven, and some are substantiated over time. Someone may have invented a feature or technical advantage, but kept back from realizing it in production. So Packard’s firsts can be seen in this light. In simple words, the Torsion-Level invention existed some years prior to Packard’s redesign and application, but the fact of the matter is that Packard was the first domestic car maker to make it happen in production.
This leads to more inventiveness, such as the revisions to Rolls-Royce motors for military use, thus avoiding slowdowns in hand-finishing parts and assembly. Tens of thousands of those power plants were mass produced, thanks to Packard advances. Imagine being in the South Pacific or the European Theater of War in the early 1940s and one of those necessary motors conked out. Who could fix it beyond a handful of artisans and master technicians in England? No time to fly them overseas just to fix one unit. Multiply that notion time and again, and the necessity for mass production and exchange of parts for speedy repair and you get the point.
Also, Packard’s involvement in marine motor production scooted numerous Patrol-Torpedo (PT) boats around coastal waters as the Axis Powers were on the defensive. So, was World War II won thanks to Packard? Not totally, but Packard did provide a crucial element toward victory. Think of the lives that were likely spared as a result!
Beyond firsts, Packard made its mark on society. Significant numbers of specialty cars were offered in conjunction with the Henney company of northern Illinois. Generally, Packard produced the majority of parts, and Henney completed lucrative numbers of funeral cars and ambulances. More than 1,900 were made in the late 1940s, which was a truly high mark. Rushing people for medical attention and honoring the dearly departed were services provided by Packard vehicles. Even presidents and other heads of state liked the Packard brand in open and limousine forms. Imagine if these aspects had not been available. For a good number of car hobbyists, watching historical news clips or old movies and seeing a Packard seems to make the whole story seem special and more enjoyable.
Packard also brought a feeling of good self-worth to its employees. Some plant employees felt they had made it to the top of their mechanical or assembly-line jobs by being hired by Packard. The same for designers and technicians. A high number stayed many years with Packard. Much more can be said of the sales force across the land. Selling other good brands of cars was proud work, but selling Packards was a step even higher, according to what dozens of workers told this writer.
Ultimately, Packard more than pulled its weight in the business. And even as some of its firsts were launched, there were feelings that those advancements were steps on the path toward greater success for the entire industry.
Packard played its part well.
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