Latest Posts Under: History
The Ford Fairlane Ranchero, produced from 1957 to 1959, was an innovative blend of sedan and pickup, perfect for taking kids to school and pigs to market. This versatile ride looked great and handled like a car but had the storage of a pickup. It was light enough to become a muscle car and had a larger weight capacity than the F-100. Ford’s international subsidiaries also embraced the Ranchero concept, with Argentina and Australia producing their own versions. In ’59, it boasted a longer bed and bigger windshield.
In the world of engines, the Vortec 5700 L31 stands out like a rock star at a classical concert, being the final act of the Chevy small block 350 engines. This V8 truck engine, which powers everything from the Cadillac Escalade to the GMC Yukon, is the engine equivalent of a Swiss army knife—versatile and reliable. Despite its lack of reverse flow cooling, it compensates with a robust performance, delivering up to 350 hp. Meanwhile, the 400 cu in engine is the quirky uncle of the family, prone to hot spots but beloved for its torque and racing appeal.
After a two-year hiatus, the Dodge Viper returns, now equipped like a luxury sports car and ready to roar. Gone are the plastic curtains and missing door handles of the past; this Viper sports a sleek design with carbon fiber detailing and a roaring 8.4L V10 engine producing 640 hp. With a price under $100,000—if you dodge taxes—the Viper offers Bluetooth, a touch screen, and even a “stop light” timer for wannabe racers. It’s a beast on the road, but a whisper in the cabin—unless those monster tires start talking!
The Buick Riviera from 1966 to 1970 was like a fine wine, getting better with age—if wine could also gain weight and horsepower. Starting with a sleeker body and hidden headlights, it bulked up with a 430 V8 engine, then hit the gym in 1970 with a 455 V8. It added safety features, locked steering, and even fender skirts, like it was preparing for a fashion show. Despite its hefty appetite for fuel, it sold over 227,000 units, proving that sometimes bigger really is better—at least on the sales floor.
The Ferrari 250 California Special was the supercar of its time, offering a cockpit-like driver’s seat and a V12 engine that could make you feel airborne. With its handmade body and streamlined design, this car didn’t just turn heads; it spun them like a record. Sure, the heater was the only luxury, but who needs creature comforts when you’re zooming at 140 mph? Even James Coburn couldn’t resist its charm, once driving off with one that later sold for a cool $11 million!
