Latest Posts Under: History
The Oldsmobile Rocket 88, from 1959 to 1962, was a tale of transformation. It started in ’59 longer, lower, and with less chrome—like a diet plan for cars. By 1960, it had a new grill and a slimmer transmission, proving even cars need to watch their waistlines. In ’61, it swapped leaf springs for coils and introduced the Starfire, the first American car with a console-mounted shifter. By ’62, it had oval tail lights and a color-changing speedometer, ensuring drivers knew when they were speeding—perfect for those with a lead foot!
The Jaguar XKE, a British marvel, underwent some quirky transformations from 1969 to 1974. The Series II ditched glass headlamp covers for a shiner look, while the Series III roared to life with a V12 engine—think of it as two XK6s in a V-shaped tango. The E Type’s evolution also meant more comfort, but alas, U.S. regulations demanded rubber bumper extensions, making it the car equivalent of a sumo suit. Fast and furious, the 1972 V12 could hit 135 mph, leaving you grinning like a Cheshire cat.
In the world of muscle cars, the Chevrolet Impala Super Sport stood out like a peacock in a parking lot. The 1966 model, with its thin-shelled bucket seats and optional gauge package, was more of a benchwarmer as buyers flocked to mid-sized stars like the Chevelle SS396. By 1969, the Impala SS was a “sleeper” in disguise—sporting a 427 cu in engine that could make your morning commute feel like a scene from a high-octane movie. Just beware of those sneaky “Tribute” cars masquerading as the real deal!
The Ford Thunderbird, named after a mythical bird, first flew onto the scene in 1955 as a two-seat luxury sports car, taking a cheeky jab at the Corvette and outselling it 23 to 1. With a design reminiscent of the era’s Ford beauties, it sported nonfunctional hood scoops and exhaust pipes that exited through the rear bumper guards. The ‘56 model brought a flashy Continental kit and a porthole hard-top roof. But while sleek in aesthetics, its hydraulic roof system was prone to comedic, unexpected leaks!
Rev up your nostalgia engines, folks! The Oldsmobile Rocket 88, the hotrod hero from 1949 to 1953, zoomed onto the scene with a new V8 engine, leaving the straight 8 in its dust. Winning NASCAR races and hearts, it became the darling of post-war car buyers. With slogans like “Make a date with a Rocket 88,” it was hard to resist. From the sleek “Futuramatic” to luxurious Super 88s, Oldsmobile kept it classy with power windows and electric seats. The ’53 model even flirted with Frigidaire A/C!
Bob’s journey with the 1969 Chevrolet Nova SS is a rollercoaster of automotive passion. Originally a drag racer with a 375-horsepower engine, the Nova saw numerous owners and transformations, including a color change to Hugger Orange. Bob traded his Harley for this beauty and embarked on a winter restoration, adding modern touches while keeping its vintage charm. Now, it’s a highway-ready stunner, complete with a new dash and a vinyl top. Bob’s love for his Nova shines through every upgrade and twist in its tale.
In 1968, Ford revved up the Mustang GT/CS, a California dream on wheels. They planned for 5,000, but 4,118 hit the road, with 251 going rogue in Colorado as “High Country Special ’68.” The GT/CS, a Mustang with a beach vibe, featured fog lamps, hood pins, and stripes in a palette of primary colors. Lee Gray, Ford’s SoCal sales guru, crafted this beauty to combat the Camaro and Cougar. And the name? Could stand for “California Special,” but some say it’s a nod to Carroll Shelby’s magic touch.
The 1967 Pontiac GTO Ram Air, affectionately called “the Goat,” roared onto the scene with more muscle than a gym full of bodybuilders. Despite Pontiac’s failed attempt to brand it with a Tiger, fans were enamored. With only 56 convertibles sporting the rare Ram Air option, these beauties are rarer than a unicorn at a petting zoo. Sporting upgrades like a Rochester Quadrajet carb and a sassy chrome mesh grille, this GTO was the ultimate highway king, making car enthusiasts swoon like it was automotive rock ‘n’ roll.
In the world of engines, the Ford FE is like that popular kid in school—everybody wanted a piece of it! From 1958 to 1976, it powered everything from NASCAR champions to your neighbor’s trusty boat. With its side oiler technology and a knack for showing up in unexpected places like industrial pumps, it’s no wonder it’s still the life of the aftermarket party. Just remember, don’t judge a Ford by its cover, especially if it’s an FT 391 masquerading as a 390—those components are not identical twins!