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AJ’s Car of the Day: 1969 Pontiac Firebird Convertible

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1969 Pontiac Firebird Convertible

Car: Pontiac Firebird Convertible
Year: 1969
What makes it special: Designed as a pony car to compete with the Ford Mustang, Pontiac’s Firebird was introduced February 23, 1967, the same model year as GM’s Chevrolet division platform-sharing Camaro. This also coincided with the release of the 1967 Mercury Cougar, Ford’s upscale, platform-sharing version of the Mustang. The first generation Firebird had characteristic Coke bottle styling shared with its cousin, the Chevrolet Camaro. Announcing a Pontiac styling trend, the Firebird’s bumpers were integrated into the design of the front end, giving it a more streamlined look than the Camaro. The Firebird’s rear “slit” taillights were inspired by the 1966–1967 Pontiac GTO. Both a two-door hardtop and a convertible were offered through the 1969 model year. 
 
What made it famous: The 1969 model received a major facelift with a new front end design but unlike the GTO, it did not have the Endura bumper. The instrument panel and steering wheel were revised. The ignition switch was moved from the dashboard to the steering column with the introduction of GM’s new locking ignition switch/steering wheel. Due to engineering problems that delayed the introduction of the all-new 1970 Firebird beyond the usual fall debut, Pontiac continued production of 1969 model Firebirds into the early months of the 1970 model year. while the other 1970 Pontiac models had been introduced on September 18, 1969. By late spring of 1969, Pontiac had deleted all model-year references on Firebird literature and promotional materials, anticipating the extended production run of the then-current 1969 models. There was an additional Ram Air IV option for the 400 cu in V8 engines during 1969, complementing the Ram Air III; these generated 345 hp at 5000 rpm and 430 lb⋅ft of torque at 3400 rpm, and 335 hp respectively. The 350 cu in HO engine was revised again with a different cam and cylinder heads resulting in 325 hp. During 1969 a special 303 cu in engine was designed for SCCA road racing applications that was not available in production cars.
 
Why I would want one: It’s the more “luxurious” Pony-car offering from GM. Perfect for those who wanted performance and looks, but a few more added creature comforts as well.
 
Fun fact: Originally, the Firebird was a “consolation prize” for Pontiac, which had desired to produce a two-seat sports car based on its original Banshee concept car. GM feared this would cut into Chevrolet Corvette sales, and gave Pontiac a piece of the “pony car” market through sharing the F-body platform with Chevrolet.
AJ’s Car of the Day: 1975 Mercury Grand Marquis Coupe

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1975 Mercury Grand Marquis Coupe

Car: Mercury Grand Marquis Coupe

Year: 1975

What makes it special: Marquis was a model line of entry-level luxury vehicles that was marketed by the Mercury division of Ford Motor Company from 1967 to 1986, recieving its name from a French nobility title, Marquis was sold across four generations as the divisional counterpart of the Ford LTD. Initially introduced as the flagship Mercury range, the Marquis line was expanded to include the Mercury Grand Marquis slotted above it, with the Mercury Colony Park serving as a station wagon variant. The first three generations of the Mercury Marquis were full-size vehicles.

What made it famous: For 1973, the Marquis received a minor restyling with a boxier look, giving it new protruding energy-absorbing “5-mph” bumpers and a new roofline. The 1975 models were slightly revised to look longer than the boxier 1973-1974 range. The Grand Marquis was introduced as a luxury trim line in 1975 when the Monterey series was dropped and all full-size Mercury’s took the Marquis name. The Grand Marquis was a trim level in its own right. It was also available prior to 1975 on Marquis Brougham which consisted of leather seats and trim. The 360 hp, 460 Big-Block V8 was again available on this generation and the 400 Cleveland replaced the 429 as the top engine in 1974. The 460 was standard on the Brougham and Grand Marquis through 1977. Paired with the 400 and 460 V8’s was the 3-speed C6 “Select-Shift” automatic.

Why I would want one: It’s a nice alternative to the usual Cadillac’s, etc as a luxury vehicle, plus you can’t get a Mercury anymore.

Fun fact: As Ford transitioned its product ranges to front-wheel drive, the Marquis was withdrawn after the 1986 model year, replaced by the Mercury Sable, which was the Mercury counterpart of the Ford Taurus.

AJ’s Car (Or in this case, Truck) of the Day: 1979 Dodge “Lil’ Red Express” Pick-up

AJ’s Car (Or in this case, Truck) of the Day: 1979 Dodge “Lil’ Red Express” Pick-up

Car ( Or, in this case, Truck): Dodge Lil’ Red Express Pick-up
Year: 1979
What makes it special: Dodge released the Lil’ Red Express Truck in 1978, and it was one of the most unique Dodge trucks that had ever been produced. The Lil’ Red Express was not only a real looker but these trucks were also real performers also. Because of a loophole in the emissions regulations the 1978 Dodge Lil’ Red Express Truck’s did not have catalytic converters, what the Lil’ Red Express did have was a special High Performance 360 cu in 4-barrel small block engine code EH1,  which was a modified version of the E58 360 police engine producing 225 net horsepower @ 3800 RPM. The package also included Hemi style mufflers with a crossover pipe breathing through 2 chrome stacks located behind the cab, a special 727 transmission and 3.55:1 rear gearing.
 
What made it famous: With the success of the 1978 Dodge Lil’ Red Express Truck production of the 1979 Dodge Lil’ Red Express Truck’s was increased. Most of the features remained unchanged for 1979 however there was some changes which included a catalytic converter, unleaded gas, 85 MPH speedometer. The most noticeable changes on the 1979 editions was the new flat hood and dual square headlights replacing the round versions on 1978 Dodge Lil’ Red Express Truck’s and the 1979’s rode on LR60x15 raised white letter tires on 8-inch chrome wheels on all 4 corners.
 
Why I would want one: It’s a straight-from-the-factory hot rod pickup. Totally cool.
 
Fun fact: In 1978 The Dodge Lil’ Red Express was the fastest American made vehicle from 0 to 100 MPH as tested by Car and Driver magazine.
AJ’s Car of the Day: 1935 Ford “Model B” Woody Wagon

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1935 Ford “Model B” Woody Wagon

Car: Ford Model B Woody Wagon

Year: 1935

What makes it special: “Woodies” were a type of station wagon where the rear car bodywork is constructed of wood or is styled to resemble wood elements. Originally, wood framework augmented the car’s structure. Over time manufacturers supplanted wood construction with a variety of materials and methods evoking wood construction, including infill metal panels, metal framework, or simulated wood-grain sheet vinyl bordered with three-dimensional, simulated framework. As a variant of body-on-frame construction, the woodie as a utility vehicle originated from the early practice of manufacturing the passenger compartment portion of a vehicle in hardwood. Woodies were produced as variants of sedans and convertibles as well as station wagons, from basic to luxury. They were typically manufactured as third-party conversions of regular vehicles, some by large, reputable coachbuilding firms and others by local carpenters and craftsmen for individual customers. 

What made it famous: The 1935 Ford was a refresh on the popular V8-powered Ford. The four-cylinder Model A engine was no longer offered, leaving just the 221 cu in V8 to power every Ford car and truck. The transverse leaf spring suspension remained, but the front spring was relocated ahead of the axle to allow more interior volume. The body was lowered and new “Center-Poise” seating improved comfort. Visually, the 1935 Ford was much more modern with the grille pushed forward and made more prominent by de-emphasized and more-integrated fenders. The wooden panels were manufactured at the Ford Iron Mountain Plant in the Michigan Upper Peninsula from Ford owned lumber. Two trim lines were offered, standard and DeLuxe, across a number of body styles including a base roadster, five-window coupe, three-window coupe, Tudor and Fordor sedans in flatback or “trunkback” versions, a convertible sedan, a woody station wagon, and new Model 51 truck. 

Why I would want one: Woody wagons are just fun and cool. You can’t help feeling the “surfer-vibe” when you see one.

Fun fact: An oil pressure gauge costing $4 and two windshield wipers were optional, but if you got the optional radio, it replaced the ash tray.

AJ’s “Badass Friday” Car of the Day: 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T “Scat Pack”

AJ’s “Badass Friday” Car of the Day: 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T “Scat Pack”

Car:Dodge Challenger R/T “Scat Pack”

Year: 2015

What makes it special: The Challenger name was used for three different generations of automobiles, two of those being pony cars, produced by Dodge. However, the first use of the Challenger name by Dodge was in 1959 for marketing a version of the full-sized Coronet Silver Challenger. From 1970 to 1974, the first generation Dodge Challenger pony car was built using Chrysler’s E-platform in hardtop and convertible body styles sharing major components with the Plymouth Barracuda. From 1978 to 1983, it was a badge engineered Mitsubishi compact car. The third and current generation is a pony car that was introduced in early 2008 originally as a rival to the evolved fifth generation Ford Mustang and the fifth generation Chevrolet Camaro.

What made it famous: The name “Scat Pack” was dug up from the days of Mopar glory, used to denote the best Dodge’s in one group. To qualify as a “Scat Pack,” the model had to run a quarter-mile in 14 seconds or under. It included the Charger R/T, Dart GTS and Super Bee, which is where the angry cartoon bee logo originates from. The Scat Pack falls in-between the R/T and SRT models. It can be considered an “SRT-Light” because you get the SRT’s larger 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 485 hp and 475 pound-feet of torque, plus attractive exhaust, appearance package and Brembo brakes, but not the SRT’s adjustable suspension of the larger six-piston Brembo brakes or a few other goods. It’s backed by your choice of a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2015 Scat Pack had a 0-60 test time around 4.5 seconds and a quarter-mile test time in the low-12’s.

Why I would want one: Actually, have one. That’s mine in the photo. After wanting a Challenger since their 2008 model debut, I finally got one in 2017.

Fun fact: For the 2019 model year, Dodge released the Challenger Redeye with 797 horsepower as well as the Scat Pack 1320 with 485 horsepower 6.4L Chrysler Hemi Engine.

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1968 Pontiac GTO Convertible (w/Endura Nose)

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1968 Pontiac GTO Convertible (w/Endura Nose)

Car: Pontiac GTO Convertible
Year: 1968
What makes it special: GTO was manufactured by Pontiac for the 1964 to 1974 model years, and by GM’s subsidiary Holden in Australia from 2004 to 2006 model years. The first generation of the GTO was a muscle car produced in the 1960’s and the 1970’s. Although there were muscle cars introduced earlier than the GTO, it’s considered by some to have started the trend with all four domestic automakers offering a variety of competing models. The GTO became a separate model from 1966 to 1971.
 
What made it famous: General Motors redesigned its A-body line for 1968, with more curvaceous, semi-fastback styling. Pontiac gave up the familiar vertically stacked headlights in favor of a horizontal layout, but made hidden headlights available at extra cost. The concealed headlights were a popular option. The signature hood scoop was replaced by dual scoops on either side of a prominent hood bulge extending rearward from the protruding nose. A unique feature was the body-color Endura front bumper. It was designed to absorb impact without permanent deformation at low speeds. Pontiac touted this feature heavily in advertising, showing hammering at the bumper to no discernible effect. A GTO could be ordered with “Endura delete”, in which case the Endura bumper would be replaced by a chrome front bumper and grille from the Pontiac Le Mans. The standard GTO engine’s power rating rose to 350 hp t 5,000 rpm. At mid-year, a new Ram Air package, known as Ram Air II, became available. It included freer-breathing cylinder heads, round port exhaust, and the 041 cam. The ‘official’ power rating was not changed. A carry-over from 1967 was the four-piston caliper disc brake option, but most 1968 models had drum brakes all around as this seldom ordered option provided greater stopping power. The 1968 model year was also the last year the GTO’s offered separate crank operated front door vents.
 
Why I would want one: It’s a GTO. I think I would enjoy any GTO up to the 1974 model year.
 
Fun fact: The GTO was selected as the Motor Trend Car of the Year in 1968.
AJ’s Car of the Day: 1981 DeLorean DMC-12

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1981 DeLorean DMC-12

Car: DeLorean DMC-12

Year: 1981

What makes it special: The DMC-12, most commonly referred to simply as “The DeLorean” was the only model ever produced. It was classified as a sports car originally manufactured by John DeLorean’s DeLorean Motor Company (or DMC ) for the American market from 1981 to 1983. The car featured gull-wing doors and an innovative fiberglass body structure with a steel backbone chassis, along with external brushed stainless-steel body panels. It became widely known and iconic for its appearance, and because a modified DMC-12 was immortalized as the DeLorean Time Machine in the “Back To The Future” movie franchise.

What made it famous: The DMC-12 features a number of unusual construction details, including gull-wing doors, unpainted stainless-steel body panels, and a rear-mounted engine. The body design of the DMC-12 is brushed SS304 stainless steel. Except for three cars plated in 24-karat gold, all DMC-12’s left the factory uncovered by paint or clearcoat. The DMC-12 features heavy doors supported by cryogenically preset torsion bars and gas-charged struts developed by Grumman Aerospace to withstand the stresses of supporting the doors. DMC-12 doors featured small cutout windows, because full-sized windows would not be fully retractable within the short door panels. The engine is a Peugeot–Renault–Volvo or PRV, 2.85 L V6, rated at 130 hp @ 2750 rpm of torque, that was designed and built under special contract with the DeLorean Motor Company. The 5-speed manual transmission, also designed by PRV, was built at the Renault facility. 

Why I would want one: Although not the fastest, or considered supercar, these are a piece of automotive history, and the story about the rise and fall of the DeLorean Motor Company could easily be the subject of it’s own movie.

Fun fact: On January 27, 2016, DMC in Texas announced that it planned to build about 300–325 replica 1982 DMC-12 cars, each projected to cost just under $100,000.

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1965 Chevrolet “Chevyvan” G10 Van

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1965 Chevrolet “Chevyvan” G10 Van

Car: ( Or, in this case, Van ) Chevrolet G10 Van
Year: 1965
What makes it special: The first Chevrolet Chevyvan G-10 half-ton production years was from 1964 through 1966, GM saw a market for a compact van based on a modified passenger car platform to compete with the already successful Ford Econoline and Dodge A100. The Chevyvan had a cab forward design with its engine placed in a “doghouse” between and behind the front seats. The implementation of situating the driver on top of the front axle with the engine near the front wheels is called internationally a “cab over” vehicle. Engines and brakes were sourced from the Chevy II. A first gen is quickly identified by its single piece flat windshield glass. Windows were available as an option, but were simply cut into the sides from the factory. Air conditioning, power steering and power brakes were not available in the 1st generation vans.
 
What made it famous: For 1965, the van remained largely unchanged. The grille openings were widened, and received one additional slot just above the bumper to increase cooling. Seat belts were added. The exciting news for the 1965 model year was the introduction of the Chevy Sportvan. Sportvan was a passenger friendly van with windows molded into the van body. A retractable rear courtesy step for the passenger side doors was used on the Sportvan. The 194 6-cylinder engine was now standard equipment, with an available ‘Hi-Torque’ 140 hp, 230 cu in inline six-cylinder.
 
Why I would want one: These are just plain cool, and can be used for utility or delivery purposes, but I prefer to see them as customs or street-rod variations.
 
Fun fact: In 1966, General Motors developed the concept vehicle Electrovan, based on the GMC Handi-Van. The vehicle used a Union Carbide cryogenic fuel cell to power a 115-horsepower electric motor. It never went into production due to cost issues and safety concerns.
AJ’s Car of the Day: 1963 Ford Falcon Futura Convertible

AJ’s Car of the Day: 1963 Ford Falcon Futura Convertible

Car: Ford Falcon Futura Convertible

Year: 1963

What makes it special: Ford’s Falcon was produced from 1960 to 1970 across three generations. It was a sales success for Ford initially, outselling rival compacts from Chrysler and General Motors introduced at the same time. Falcon was offered in two-door and four-door sedan, two-door and four-door station wagon, two-door hardtop, convertible, sedan delivery and Ranchero pickup body configurations. For several years, the Falcon name was also used on passenger versions of the Econoline van.

What made it famous: In 1963, even more models were available. There was now a four-door Futura and a Deluxe wagon. Futura Convertible and Futura Sports Convertible models were also included in the 1963 range. Later, hardtops, and the new “Sprint” model were introduced. Halfway through the model year, the Fairlane’s 164 hp “Challenger” 260 cu in V8 engine was offered for the first time. The Falcon was climbing in trim level from its budget beginnings to get more profit from the line. The only time a V8 option was available in a first-generation Falcon was the 1963½ model, and they were produced in very limited numbers, like the Sprint two-door hardtop and Sprint convertible. These first-generation Falcon Sprint cars were the basis for the 1964½ Mustangs released by Ford one year later. Many of the interior, chassis, suspension, and drivetrain components were derived from those used on the 1963½ Ford Falcon Sprint and/or Fairlane models. Basically, the 1963½ Falcon Sprint is nearly mechanically identical to the 1964½ Mustang while being cosmetically different.

Why I would want one: I’ve always wanted a Ford Falcon, at this point any model between the years 1960 and 1968.

Fun fact: The Ford Falcon brochure featured Charlie Brown and Lucy from the Peanuts comic strip who remained until 1965

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