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Tag: unrestored

PICK OF THE DAY: Pristine One-Owner 8,600-Mile Opel GT

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Often referred to as a “Mini Vette,” at least in the US, the Opel GT in fact pre-dates the car to which it’s likened, the C3 “coke-bottle” Corvette, by some three years. It, and the Big Vette, take their styling cues from the Ferrari GTO as well as the Pontiac Banshee show car, but to label the Opel GT as a smaller version of a 300+ horsepower American icon is probably off the mark. This is especially true in that, despite the smaller exterior dimensions, they are about the same inside. Furthermore, “Mini Vette” to some extent discredits the GT for what it is: a comfortable, economical, affordable and fun people’s sports car. In that respect, it is much more Karmann Ghia or Alfa Giulietta than Corvette. They were peppy enough and handling took some getting used to, but was decent. Yet they never earned any credentials in motorsport so were missing that true sport in their sports-carness. On top of that, their relative low price opened them to neglect, not worth restoring. Looking at current values, there is some validity to that. What few Opel GTs come on the market, are typically those that have spent some considerable time in a field or the back of a barn. Most are advertised in such a state or strapped to a flatbed. In any case, their decay would take some rather ambitious restoration. For anyone truly interested in an Opel GT, finding one in original, well-preserved condition is the way to go. This is seemingly a needle in a haystack, yet two such examples have come on the market in the last week. This example is especially unique in that, with the exception of some proper maintenance items, it is completely original through the stewardship of a single loving owner. With just a tick over 8,600 miles on the clock, it is as close to a showroom fresh Opel GT as anyone is likely to find. Its Chrome Yellow is also a nice alternative to the typical red and looks especially smart against the black interior (where later models were white). When taking into account where other German cars of this vintage—and ok, the C3 Corvette too—are headed, the Opel GT may just be the sleeper in the bunch. This pristine example, priced at $9,500, may turn out to be an extraordinary bargain to boot. Find it here on Craigslist in West Orange, NJ.

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PICK OF THE DAY: Pristine 40,000 Mile BMW 320is

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As a sleeper in the making, the BMW E21 has thus far been overlooked by most collectors and enthusiasts, being viewed more as a   high schooler’s car or upscale economy car. As such, most have been driven hard, succumbed to rust, and generally not held in the same kind of esteem as the 2002 that came before it, or even the E30 that came after. It is a pity as the 320i (as we knew them on these shores) possesses all the traits that make any BMW a BMW: excellent driving characteristics, driver-oriented comfort and ergonomics, build quality and dependability. It is, for the moment, also an opportunity as the 320i is poised for deserved recognition. In particular the ‘S’ model, which BMW added in the US market in an attempt to stimulate slow sales of the 320i. Atop the its already desirable attributes, the 320is adds Recaro seats, stiffer suspension, special wheels, and a unique front air dam, among other refinements. This particular 320is is an excellent example of an E21 that has been given the love and respect that these cars warrant. It is said to be all original with no paintwork and a just over 40,000 miles covered by a single owner. Every aspect of this 320is radiates pampering, from the quality of the finish and wheels, to the spotless interior, to the meticulous records and documentation. Though priced well above current E21 values, it is still at half of what a comparable-quality, round-tailight 2002tii might bring. It may also prove to be a bargain down the road, when the E21 is given its due. Find it here on Craigslist in Seattle WA for $15,000.

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ON THE BLOCK: Original Gems Shine at Lucky Spring Classic 2014

 

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A black-plate 1967 Maserati Mistral 4000 stored in Washington since 1978,  a 1964 Facel Vega Facel III stored in Northern California since 1974, and an original Fiat Tippolino Garden Car will be sold to settle estates at no reserve at the Lucky Collector Car Auction this weekend. The sale will be held on the grounds of the LeMay Family Foundation’s Marymount Campus in Tacoma, Washington on Saturday, May 31 2014.

In addition to the anticipated Euro and American sports cars, there are dozens more collector and low-mileage driver-quality vehicles, as well as barn finds and classics offered at no reserve. Other highlights include early Corvettes, Porsches, Mercedes-Benz, muscle cars, and vintage trucks. The event is expected to include 120 cars, 30 motorcycles, mahogany boats, and memorabilia.

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