Sunday, December 8, 2013

1961 Alfa Romeo Sprint 2000

1961 Alfa Romeo 2000 Sprint fr
This is one of only 704 102 Series Alfa Romeo 2000 Sprints made and only 4 are known to be roadworthy today.  With timeless body styling by Guigiaro, the rev-happy 2000cc engine with twin Del'Ortos, a 5-speed gearbox, fully independent suspension, seating for 4, a factory sun-roof, and electric windows this car was at the top of Alfa's range in 1961.  Later versions of this body were fitted with Alfa's incredible 2600cc inline 6 and with many available are not nearly as expensive.
This particular car has been carefully maintained and tastefully enhanced with engine improvements giving it 143hp over the standard 115hp.  Still wearing its original leather interior, radio, and all brightwork, this car is one-of-a-kind.  Priced at $65k it is a bargain no matter how you look at it and ought to be bought.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

2000 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL R WIDEBODY



At nearly 6200 pounds, 17.5 feet long, and nearly five feet in height the Bentley Continental R Widebody is a serious piece of automotive art.  Until you have stood next to one, its hard to grasp its shear size and presence. This particular example is #3 of the 10 Mulliner Widebody Millenium editions produced in 2000.  This special edition gets the a sportier suspension, Le Mans style side vents, widebody wheel well extensions, special wheels, green starter button, matrix grill, and lower sill skirts.  The interior of the R model is not as racey as the T with its engine turned dash, but looks the part of a car originally priced at over $300,000 with a forest of veneer and perfect, unblemished leather hides.  Moving this behemoth to 60mph in just under 6 seconds is a turbocharged V8 producing 385hp and a whopping 553ft pounds of torque at just 2000rpm.  While not as reliable as your Camry, for a Bentley these cars have few known issues to worry with.  These cars are just beginning to reach full depreciation and will be highly collectible given their rarity, beauty, and performance.  This car is currently on offer at $69k, and while not as desirable as the Le Mans or R420 editions offered through 2002, it ought to be bought.  Actually, it ought be be in my garage.

Sunday, August 11, 2013

2001-2002 BMW M COUPE



The BMW M Coupe was first introduced in 1999 fitted with the S52 engine.  Only 2,180 of these coupes were built for the North American market between 1999 and 2000.  In 2001, the S54 engine, with 315hp - 75hp boost over the S52 - was added.  This increase in power transformed the 3,100lb. car from a quirky shooting brake to true "M" status.  With near perfect weight distribution, extremely rigid chassis (especially if ordered without the sunroof), and the ability to propel itself from 0-60 in 4.3 seconds to a top speed in excess of 180mph - faster than a Shelby Cobra - the 2001-2002 M Coupe is an incredible performer.  Things to watch for are the rear strut braces and rod bearing failure/wear.
Only 690 North American market cars were built over two years making them extremely rare beasts.  Market prices have risen in the past two years from an average of $27k in 2010 to $35k today.  Further, the number of these cars trading hands has decreased sharply in the last year which is another possible indicator of model appreciation.  With those who lusted after these cars when 18 now in their 30s, these cars will soon rise further in price.  The 2001-2002 M Coupe is definitely a car that ought to be bought.

Thursday, August 8, 2013

1966 Mercedes 230SL Pagoda Euro 4-speed



The value of these little Mercs have soared over the past two years.  With 190SL prices nearing $200k, 300SL prices near $1M, these seem quite the bargain.   Market values are anywhere between $50-100k according to several price guides. With perfect proportions, rock solid mechanicals, and that huge Mercedes trident on the front, these cars will do nothing but appreciate.
The fact that this car is a European version without the US DOT add-on sidemarker lights and bumpers increases its value.  The four speed transmission is rare, although not as much so as the ZF 5-speed also offered.  While red isn't the best color for this model and as the interior appears a bit tired and faded, even if the seller's statements are 50% accurate, priced today at $37k it 'ought to be bought.'