Barn Finds

[h=1]Montana Estate Car: 1967 Oldsmobile Toronado[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061016-Barn-Finds-1967-Oldsmobile-Toronado-1-630x354.jpg
This is a long, low, tough, cool car. The 1967 Oldsmobile Toronado seen here is in Great Falls, Montana where it’s been all its life. It’s listed on eBay with a current bid price of around $350 and no reserve! That seems like a ridiculously low price for such a decent, original car. But, there are a couple of issues with it, rust not being one of them since it’s from salt-less Montana.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061016-Barn-Finds-1967-Oldsmobile-Toronado-2-630x354.jpg
As much as I like the looks of the full wheel covers, these rims are super cool, in my opinion. I used to lust over these Toronados as a kid, especially when they didn’t have the full wheel covers on. This car was owned by a farmer in Montana and apparently they lived on a gravel road, which isn’t too surprising. You can see that the body, overall, looks great other than a couple of spots, mainly from gravel wearing off the paint. But, there is a small dent in the RR quarter panel and some bondo on the RF fender.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061016-Barn-Finds-1967-Oldsmobile-Toronado-5-630x354.jpg
This whole car design is great, especially the front end and grille treatment; again, in my opinion. It’s elegant, mean, chic, shark-like, honest, clean, tough, and cool all at once, sort of like Chuck Norris.. Of course, this one is like Chuck Norris with a hairpiece with that vinyl top. But, I’m not one to dislike a car because it has a vinyl top.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061016-Barn-Finds-1967-Oldsmobile-Toronado-3-630x354.jpg
The interior is also honest and clean. This car hasn’t been restored so what’chu see is what’chu get! Wait, I said Chuck Norris, not Flip Wilson. I usually prefer brocade-like fabric seats over leather and that’s what this Montana car has. The dash and especially the speedometer is a work of art, which isn’t surprising on this car. You’ll need a couple of parts, like a door pull on the driver’s side door, but you should be able to track one of those down.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061016-Barn-Finds-1967-Oldsmobile-Toronado-4-630x354.jpg
Olds made 21,790 Toronados in 1967 and they came with a 425 cubic inch Rocket V8 with 375 hp and a bone-crushing 475 ft-lb of torque! Chuck would be proud. This is a powerful beast, there is no question about it. Firestone designed a special tire for the Toronado called the “TFD (Toronado-Front-Drive) tire”, with a hefty sidewall and an elegantly-thin white wall. There are a couple of glitches with this one in that there is no title (it can’t be as hard to get one for this than, say, for a battery-powered minibike..) and also there are no keys! The trunk hasn’t been opened in who knows how long, there could be anything in there, or nothing. The seller is hoping that the other two original wheel covers are in there. I really like Toronados, they’re on my master wish list and have been for too long now. Are there any other fans of these tough, cool front-drive cars out there?

Tags: American / Oldsmobile / Projects / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1967-oldsmobile-toronado/#Rc3zCgo8RhRuGeV1.99
 
One Bad Ass Truck !
[h=1]Marmon Herrington 4×4: 1952 Ford F3[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1952-Ford-F3-4x4-e1465706044498-630x354.jpg
Now this is a truck! Talk about an impressive piece of equipment. The seller lists it as a Power Wagon, but admits they did so to draw in more potential buyers. I can see though why Power Wagon buyers might be interested in buying this thing. It features a rugged 4×4 system capable of taking this thing anywhere. It sadly isn’t all original, as it was restored in the ’90, but it was professionally done to a very high standard. You can find this beast here on eBay in Saugatuck, Michigan. I’d love to it the road in this Ford, how about you?


Tags: American / Ford / Trucks

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/marmon-herrington-4x4-1952-dodge/#D3IEpXbEhQ5FGWie.99
 
[h=1]One Ton of Fun: 1949 Diamond T 201[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1949-Diamond-T-201-1-630x354.jpg
This would be quite a fun restoration project. It’s a 1949 Diamond T 201 pickup and it’s located in Mankato, Minnesota. It’s listed on eBay as a “classified ad” with a price of $13,900 or make an offer. What a show-stopper this would be!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1949-Diamond-T-201-2-630x334.jpg
Diamond T Motor Car Company was founded in Chicago by a shoe maker, Mr. C.A. Tilt. No lie! The “T” inside of a diamond logo came from his shoe company logo to signify quality with the diamond and a T for his last name. What an odd progression, from shoes to trucks. They made their first vehicle, a car, in 1905 and their first truck came along in 1911 and that’s when the company realized that commercial sales were the way to go.
According to company literature of the day, the “Model 201 is a unique vehicle in the light-duty field. Its all-truck specifications and exceptionally rugged construction set it widely apart from most trucks in this classification because they are commonly passenger car adaptations, which include the use of many units originally designed for passenger car service.” Back then, “light-duty” must have meant something different than it does today, because the lightest-duty that these trucks came was in a one-ton configuration, other than a few “Model 80” 3/4 ton versions in the mid-late-1930s. I think that most folks would drive a 1/16-ton truck today if they made such a thing, just so they could sit up above everyone else in traffic.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1949-Diamond-T-201-3-630x354.jpg
The seller of this fine project says that it “is VERY solid as you can see in the pictures, nearly NO rust issues!” It certainly looks solid, and you probably have a media-blaster anyway so you can put it to work here. The underside looks solid and as you can see, it was originally a red truck, as most (all?) of them were.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1949-Diamond-T-201-4-630x354.jpg
I wonder when, or why, this truck was painted yellow? It must have been decades ago. It would sure be unique to have it restored back to yellow, even if that wasn’t its original color. The interior, as with everything else, will need a gut-job and restoration here. These aren’t luxury trucks by today’s standards, the top speed was probably 45-55 in real world conditions.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1949-Diamond-T-201-5-630x354.jpg
This is where you’ll have to get resourceful, and creative. As you can see, this engine will at the very least need to be taken out and fully rebuilt; I guess that goes without saying. This is a 236 cubic inch six-cylinder with around 90 hp and it would have come with a 3-speed manual, although a 4-speed was an option. 1949 was the last year for the Model 201 as it was replaced by the Model 222 in 1950. An equally cool truck, in my opinion, but the writing was on the wall as they sold even fewer of them than the previous models. I think this truck deserves to be restored back to original spec, how would you restore this rugged Diamond T?

Tags: American / Diamond T / Projects / Survivors / Trucks

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1949-diamond-t-201/#sC5xBqryEVvXg3aP.99
 
I test drove one of these back in 82. A Good little car.
[h=1]Incredible One-Owner Car: 1982 Honda Prelude[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1982-Honda-Prelude-1-e1465706909497-630x354.jpg
Ok, I know that the term “time capsule” is overused, especially by me, but this one is pretty close. This gorgeous 1982 Honda Prelude is in Concord, California and it’s listed on eBay for $7,950. It’s a one-owner car and if you’re even remotely a vintage Japanese vehicle fan, once you see the photos in the eBay link you’ll be wiping the drool from your keyboard.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1982-Honda-Prelude-2-e1465706941999-630x354.jpg
This car is ridiculously, dare I say it? Cute, there, I’ve said it, this car is just plain cute. This Prelude looks drop-dead perfect from most of the photos, until you see a couple of the close-up ones, then you’ll see a few dings and chips in the paint, unfortunately. But, it’s original so there isn’t a mis-matched door or some other bad paint job going on, it’s all factory paint; albeit with a few chips and dings in it. At least you won’t be afraid to park it at the big box retail store.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1982-Honda-Prelude-3-e1465706977222-630x354.jpg
This car was owned and driven by the same owners since new; mainly highway miles. They say that it “was never used for the drive train destructive stop & go driving tests of our crowded Bay Area commuting.” 1982 was the last year for the first-generation Prelude and it’s the one to have. As you would expect, the trunk looks as perfect as the day it left the factory.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1982-Honda-Prelude-4-e1465707012991-630x417.jpg
The interior is also pert’near perfect here. There is a little wear on the edge of the driver’s seat but other than that it looks fantastic; much better than the vast majority of similar cars out there. Not to mention that sweet little Honda 5-speed shifter. Admit it, you expected to see an automatic in this car. I know that I did, the really nice ones usually have automatics which kept them from being hot-rodded and overly-modified as much as the manual cars were.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061116-Barn-Finds-1982-Honda-Prelude-5-e1465707043711-630x417.jpg
This is Honda’s slick 1.8L, 1,751 cc EK four-cylinder single-overhead-cam, CVCC engine with between 75 and 80 hp. The cam drive belts were replaced at regular time intervals instead of mileage intervals, according to the seller. The seller says that all “options work as they should including very cold air conditioning. Starts right up and has no odd noises or smoke.” This really looks like a great car. I hope that I’m not the only one out there who would love to have this little Prelude?

Tags: Honda / Japanese / Survivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/incredible-one-owner-car-1982-honda-prelude/#ZgFxojWxeXRxS8LO.99
 
[h=1]383, 4-Speed, Convertible, No Reserve! 1969 Road Runner[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a1-1-630x354.jpg
This is one of those times when you have to wonder why someone would quit on a project when the hard work has been done! The seller does say they are losing their storage, which is in Winner, South Dakota. The Road Runner is for sale here on eBay where the bidding is right at $11,200 and there’s no reserve.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a2-1-630x354.jpg
If you choose to purchase this car, you are actually buying it from a former Chrysler dealership owner from the 1960’s who has recently sold his dealership. They say in the ad that this is one of only 769 four-speed Road Runner convertibles made in 1969. That’s right, I said four-speed!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a8-e1465700719628-630x292.jpg
This is apparently what it looked like when the current owner purchased the car. They ended up completely cutting off both rear quarter panels and replacing them (pictures here and here). This was done in 2009 (the seller has owned it since the early 1990’s).
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a4-2-630x354.jpg
As you can see, the floors look pretty solid. That original color is “R4 Performance Red.” It actually looks red-orange to me in some of the pictures. What’s left of the interior has been stored, but being a white interior originally more than likely you’ll end up replacing it.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a5-1-e1465701100346-630x420.jpg
The engine (non original, but the correct year and size, it’s a 383) was rebuilt in 1991 (!) and has not been installed. I hope it was stored correctly, although the deterioration of the plastic is not making me warm and fuzzy inside. That being said, since it’s out already, it wouldn’t take much to pull it down again just to check. I think that’s what I would do–what about you?
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a3-2-630x354.jpg
Here’s where that engine will go, at least if you follow through with the original restoration plan. But since the engine and transmission are not the original ones, although they are the original type, would you follow through, or would you deviate?

Tags: American / Plymouth / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/is-the-coyote-after-you-1969-road-runner/#avKyEolTzeafpsai.99
 
[h=1]Rust Didn’t Sleep: 1969 Mustang Mach 1 With A 4-Speed[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m2-1-e1465793887388-630x395.jpg

As a huge fan of 1969 Mustang fastbacks, this car immediately caught my eye when it appeared here on eBay, where the buy it now is $13,900 but lower offers are welcomed. Fortunately, the seller has been really honest as to the condition of the car and this is too big a project for some to take on. The external panels are deceiving! It’s located in North Platte, Nebraska, and I’m guessing that wherever it’s been they use salt on the roads.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m1-1-e1465794092644-630x345.jpg

It’s amazing how good the exterior looks. Sure, the rocker panel moldings are missing, as is the driver’s side grille edge, but as a whole this looks pretty darn good from this picture. Too bad the underside doesn’t match the outside.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m3-1-e1465794187865-630x368.jpg

Surprisingly, there’s only a modicum of rust showing in the quarter panels. Apart from a wavy rear bumper, the shell looks pretty straight as well. I was really starting to get interested!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m7-e1465794270505-630x354.jpg

Then I started to look at pictures like this. Oh my! There’s a lot of rust. The seller tells us that the previous owner used screws to mount new floorboards and that they’ll need to be installed properly. Oh. Unfortunately, the rust didn’t stop there, as almost every major structural area under the car has at least some repair necessary. Check out pictures here, here and here to see the damage. I’m not saying I haven’t seen worse, and it’s certainly repairable damage; I just didn’t expect to see it look that bad given the condition of the external body.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m6-e1465794528758-630x394.jpg

The seller has thoughtfully included pictures of some of the additional components they have sourced or removed from the car. Yes, that’s a manual shifter you see; this is a rare four-speed car.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m4-1-e1465794608400-630x428.jpg

Parts of the interior don’t look bad at all, but I suspect this one will get a full restoration, especially considering how easy it is to find reproduction parts for these Mustangs. You can see the poorly attached floor pans in this shot.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/m5-1-e1465794701918-630x420.jpg

Here’s the 351 Windsor V8 engine, complete with what looks like a new water pump. Obviously, though, there’s a lot of work to be done, and as the seller says, it doesn’t run. Do you think this one is worth taking on? If so, what do you think a reasonable offer would be?


Read more at http://barnfinds.com/rust-didnt-sleep-1969-mustang-mach-1-with-a-4-speed/#4RjRmP0y76L029BG.99
 
[h=1]1970 Plymouth Superbird On Craigslist?[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1970-Plymouth-Superbird-630x354.jpg
We’ve featured a craigslist Superbird before, but this is the first one we’ve seen on the free classifieds site in a few years now. It always makes us leery to find such a high dollar car on there, but you never know. This Superbird is claimed to have been off the road since 1986 and to have only 43k miles on the odometer! It’s located in Upstate New York and is listed here on craigslist for $85k. Thanks goes to Daniel S for the tip!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/440-Super-Commando-630x354.jpg
You could get a 426 Hemi or a 440 Super Commando in your Superbird. Looks like the latter is in there, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The Hemi would make the car more valuable, but the 440 was a beast of an engine with lots of low end torque. If the mileage number is correct, this muscle car should be worth quite a bit more than the asking once it’s made road worthy.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Clean-Interior-630x354.jpg
This winged Mopar does look pretty good in the photos. The interior appears to be very clean for a car that has sat for 30 years though. I ran the photos through a search to see if the car had been listed before and nothing came up. That’s a good thing to do with a craigslist find just to make sure it’s not a scam. That’s not a guarantee though. There’s only an email listed in the ad, so don’t click on any strange links that may come back.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Winged-Mopar-630x355.jpg
Hopefully this one is legit, but with any online purchase, better safe than sorry. The listing hasn’t been up for more than 24 hours, so you’ll want to act fast, but proceed with caution. Make sure you know what you are getting and be careful sending money. A transaction this big should probably be done after meeting the seller in-person. If anyone does end up pursuing this bird, we would love to hear the outcome!

Tags: American / Muscle Cars / Plymouth / Surivivors

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1970-plymouth-superbird-on-craigslist/#xACejTjKM7LPozMA.99
 
[h=1]The Mack Daddy of Trucks: 1959 Mack B67T[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1959-Mack-B67T-1-630x354.jpg
This is the Mack daddy of trucks, or it was five decades ago. The 1959 Mack B67T seen here is in Watkinsville, Georgia and is listed on eBay for $4,500 with four days left on the auction.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1959-Mack-B67T-2-630x354.jpg
The B Model series was made by Mack from 1953 to 1966 and is what I and a good majority of other people think of when they think of “Mack Trucks”; it’s an iconic design. 127,786 of the B-Series Macks were built and a lot of them are still working to this day. These were, and still are, tough trucks.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1959-Mack-B67T-3-630x354.jpg
The seller mentions that they have a replacement panel for the dented one on the rear, so if you’re going to restore this one instead of use it for work, that’s a good thing. I can’t think of one reason why I would need this truck, but I can think of a million reasons why I want it! There are no engine photos, unfortunately, but this one has an 11.0L, 672 cubic inch, inline-six turbodiesel Thermodyne open chamber, direct-injection engine with about 205 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. and a 10-speed transmission. Whew, that sentence was a Mack load in itself!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1959-Mack-B67T-4-630x354.jpg
This is a “day cab”, obviously not meant for sleeping in, but of course we’ve all slept in a car at some point in our lives. Guys? Haven’t we? Hey, where’d everyone go?.. I love this interior, and I know that sounds weird when talking about a manly-man, rugged diesel truck. Look at how nicely and simply that dash is designed; well done, the Mack brothers would be proud of this model. This is a Class 8 truck (33,001 lbs. or more); just so you know what size car trailer to plan on buying for hauling your future Barn Finds cars home. I know that this Mack won’t appeal to everyone, but my philosophy is that any real car guy or car gal can at least appreciate every vehicle for what it was or what it represented. There is at least a little bit of goodness in every vehicle ever made. What would you do with this great truck?

Tags: American / Mack / Survivors / Trucks

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1959-mack-b67t/#eQIsrILYepsH3eKQ.99
 
[h=1]Four Unusual Doors: 1968 Ford Thunderbird[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/t1-e1465704875995-630x398.jpg
This 1968 Thunderbird has those interesting rearward opening doors in the back. Some call them “suicide” doors! Maybe this will win over those ‘two-door only’ readers? Anyway, it’s located only about 30 miles south of me in Fayetteville, North Carolina. It’s up for sale here on eBay where the buy it now price is $8,900 but lower offers are welcomed.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/t2-1-e1465705087903-630x358.jpg
One of the most challenging items for the stylists must have been to incorporate the rear door shut line half way into the landau vinyl top! The car really looks nice with the original wheel covers and a period color. The seller says they don’t have time for it anymore as they are deployed (I thank them for their service!) and want to see it go to someone who will appreciate it.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/t3-630x473.jpg
As a child, I had a ‘68 Thunderbird Hot Wheel that was almost this color, and I remember loving the front end styling even then. I still love it!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/t4-e1465705597683-630x400.jpg
Here’s a better look at those great doors! There’s also a swing-away steering wheel, so there’s really no excuse for not being able to get into this big old car! Unfortunately, you can also see that some upholstery repair or replacement will be needed to get that interior up to snuff.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/t5-1-e1465705664972-630x403.jpg
Uh-oh! Yes, those bubbles under the vinyl are exactly what you think they are. The seller has already purchased a replacement set of top material, so it’s time to take the step of removing this top, fixing the damage and putting the new top material on. If you don’t want to take that on yourself, most local upholstery shops around here will take it on for you; I’m guessing that’s true in other locales as well.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/t6-1-e1465705788851-630x392.jpg
If we believe the air cleaner, this is a 429 Thunder Jet engine, which when new meant 360 horsepower and over 420 ft-lbs of torque! Even with a curb weight of 4541 pounds, that’s still enough power to make things interesting on the street! The seller has done a lot of mechanical refurbishment to the car, ranging from engine part replacement to suspension refurbishment. I think this one would be fun; I know I’d be willing to install that vinyl top; how about you?


Read more at http://barnfinds.com/four-unusual-doors-1968-ford-thunderbird/#emRvwH70KfDJf8xT.99
 
These cars were cool back in the day. A Friend's Father had one new back then. Was a lot more fun that my Dad's VW Bug. Had twice the power and the handling to match.
[h=1]Original California Car: 1978 Toyota Celica GT[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1978-Toyota-Celica-GT-2-630x354.jpg
This well-preserved 1978 Toyota Celica GT is in Visalia, California and it’s been in California since new. It’s listed on eBay with a Buy It Now price of $5,500 and a current bid price of just over two hundred bucks! There are over six days left on the auction and this car should get close to the Buy It Now price, I would hope; it’s a ridiculously nice one.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1978-Toyota-Celica-GT-1-630x354.jpg
1978 was the first year of the second-generation Celica. I’m just thinking out loud here, but usually for me a first-generation car is the most desirable. If a person were grasping for straws, which I usually am, a first-year second-generation car would be the next in line as far as desirability and collectibility goes. Whew, I’m exhausted after all that thinkin’ and graspin’!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1978-Toyota-Celica-GT-3-630x354.jpg
This Celica is in superb condition, especially for an all-original car. My favorite photo in the eBay ad is this one, showing this beauty among a sea of madly-modified muscle machines. There is no question as to which car I’d be looking at in that crowd, this one. Modified muscle machines don’t do much for me; if they were original, that would be a different story. Even the trunk looks like new on this Celica.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1978-Toyota-Celica-GT-4-630x354.jpg
Yes, a 5-speed! Whenever I see a super nice, original vintage Japanese car like this I automatically (no pun intended) expect to see an automatic transmission. Manual cars were usually the ones that got modified and raced and ended up bent and abused; ones with automatics were driven by accountants and librarians. The “Gold Metallic” Celica seen here doesn’t have the flashiest paint or interior color scheme but it sure is in fantastic shape. the interior looks great with no splits in the dash, but there is a small seam separation in the driver’s seat. The seller mentions that “the rear vinyl quarters are coming unglued from their panels.” An upholstery shop should be able to fix both of those issues in no time.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061216-Barn-Finds-1978-Toyota-Celica-GT-5-630x354.jpg
Guess which engine this is? (crickets).. Ok, it’s a 20R. The 20R was a 2.2L (2,189 cc) four-cylinder made between 1975 and 1980, the golden years for my coming of age, car-wise. That’s around the time that I got my driver’s license and cars from that era held the same fascination for me as a Mustang or Camaro did for folks who got their licenses in the mid-late-’60s. This being a California car, it would have had about 90 hp, down a bit from what the rest of us would have had, but not much, 5-7% maybe. I know that a lot of people aren’t fans of vintage Japanese vehicles and they probably think of them all being in junkyards by now. But, there are millions of us out there who love these things, and to find an all-original one in this great condition, with working AC, a 5-speed, no rust, etc., that’s a good day in my world. Are there any fans of these second-generation Celicas out there?

Tags: Japanese / Survivors / Toyota

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1978-toyota-celica-gt/#WwuJPRqdXiiOkLE0.99
 
An Example of What Not to Do to an 80s Trans Am :

Jun 12, 2016 / By Jeff / 26 Comments
[h=1]Ferrari Fighter? 1987 Pontiac Tojan Firebird[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00K0K_iWmEuu2YS7p_600x450-e1465708758270.jpg
At first, I thought this unusual Pontiac Tojan Firebird here on craigslist was yet another example of silly 80’s excess, its creation driven by people who desired a Miami Vice lifestyle on a Dukes of Hazzard budget. Consider me shocked, then, when I learned that the Tojan is a step above your basic Fiero-based bodykit and is actually only one of about 150 cars ever made. Thanks to Barn Finds reader CJS for the find!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/01414_cpna71fw0DY_600x450-e1465708797145.jpg
The Tojan was apparently GM’s answer to providing an affordable alternative to the Ferrari 308 and other supercars of the era. Although you could argue that was the point of the Corvette, I suppose having a built-to-order sports car upped the exclusivity factor quite a bit. Contracted out to an aftermarket company called Knudsen Automotive in Nebraska, GM provided the manufacturer with GTA frames, 305 engines and 700R4 transmissions. Knudsen designed the bodies, which were a mixture of Firebird influences in the front and Italian exotica out back. The Lamborghini-style wing seen here was optional.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00i0i_ktsuMSz4IQH_600x450-e1465708814144.jpg
Inside, the custom touches continued. The Tojan received digital read-outs in the gauges, along with a custom wood-panel dashboard. Recaro seats were also installed, though the condition of this example’s buckets is suspect given the seat covers tossed over them. GM made it easy for customers to own a Tojan, as you simply walked into your local dealer and placed an order. Knudsen then got to work building your car, which also came with deep-dish Compomotive wheels and fat tires. If customers wanted to up the ante, Knudsen would install superchargers and a limited-slip rear end.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/thirdgenorg-e1465708835467.jpg
Image courtesy of ThirdGen.org The seller claims this example runs and drives but will need some deferred maintenance addressed, including a new water pump and tires. His vehicle has been off the road for a while and it sounds like there are other issues that will need fixing, but like many owners of oddballs, I suspect he believe the exclusivity factor should overcome any mechanical issues. Still, these were basically Firebirds slid under a custom body, so there shouldn’t be anything too surprising beneath that wild exterior. The seller is looking for $5,000 – is this Tojan’s exclusivity worth the price of admission?

Tags: American / Oddballs / Pontiac / Projects





Read more at http://barnfinds.com/ferrari-fighter-1987-pontiac-tojan/#9wjQpUm0P3XaLqct.99
 
When I was in late Teens , a Friend of mine had a 74 like this with a 400 American , 4 barell , 4 speed. Would spin in first through 3rd gear. Hee Haw !
[h=1]1 Of 1,377: 1977 Pontiac Can Am[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1977-Pontiac-Can-Am-630x355.jpg
The Pontiac Can Am was an option package for the LeMans which featured a Trans Am Shaker Hood, multi-colored striping, and a couple of high performance engine options. Of the 1,377 built, most received the 200 horsepower W72 version of the 400 V8. So, this was a relatively potent muscle car for the time. A ton of orders were received, but supposedly the rear spoiler mold broke and production ended. This particular example is a complete wreck. The body is full of rust, the engine is seized, and ironically they are asking extra for the only part of value to Can Am owners – the fiberglass spoiler. Find it here on craigslist where the seller is asking $1,500 for the car and $550 for the spoiler and taillights. Thanks goes to Olaf E for the tip!


Tags: American / Muscle Cars / Pontiac / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1-of-1377-1977-pontiac-canam/#dFmmeOc7XiCejHXB.99
 
More Rust.
[h=1]ROI Potential: 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l500-6-e1465826892385.jpg
The seller of this rusty, rough 1971 VW Karmann Ghia here on eBay claims that the value for such vehicles has shot up 50% over the last few months. I don’t follow the air-cooled market that closely, but I don’t think prices or demand have jumped that much. However, with a starting bid of $0.99 and an engine that turns freely, perhaps this Karmann Ghia represents a potentially cheap buy as a good source for parts or long-term project.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l500-7-e1465826921104.jpg
The car is located in Sanford, Maine and there is currently no bidding activity. Sanford isn’t too far from Kennbunkport, which is a popular seaside community for summer-time travelers. I wouldn’t be surprised if you find a few expired beach pass parking stickers on this Karmann Ghia, and if it’s been parked for extended periods of time with its nose facing the ocean, that might explain the heavy corrosion up front. The permeation of rust continues to the floors, frame rails and heater channels, according to the seller.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l500-8-e1465826957229.jpg
The rust challenges are why I think this convertible VW has a future as a parts car. There appear to be some good components left, from the top to the interior to the drivetrain. The windshield glass appears solid, and trim bits like the door handles, mirrors and tail lights could all be useful to someone. The doors and engine lid also could be harvested for another project car, but these aren’t necessarily hard parts to find. Nice parts to have, sure – but the Buy-It-Now asking price of $3,200 seems steep to me for a car of this condition grade.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l500-9-e1465826937269.jpg
It would appear this convertible received a likely-cheap respray in red, which is a shame considering its original color may have been yellow (a more desirable paint code, in my opinion). If motor turns out to be savable, that’s a bonus – but it’s anyone’s guess if the numbers match. Although I personally hope this car returns to the road, I don’t believe the seller’s claim about the uptick in value. Even if some pricing guide made such a declaration, Karmann Ghias still have a long ways to go before they begin to appreciate like an air-cooled Porsche.

Tags: German / Projects / Volkswagen

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/50-roi-1971-volkswagen-karmann-ghia/#Sp7idCH8L9IGQ8i0.99
 
[h=1]Esprit De Pontiac: 1977 Pontiac Firebird Esprit[/h]
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00202_2RcvK19K5i8_1200x900-630x354.jpg

Some of you may remember the great James Garner as the star of the television show, The Rockford Files. Garner was a renowned car guy, and the car his character drove was an important part of the show. If you’re a gearhead, it’s possible you may also remember that the car Rockford drove Pontiac Esprits throughout the run of the show (1974-1980). For quite a few Firebird fans, the Esprit was a very desirable trim line, far more understated than the flashy and more powerful Formula and Trans Am trims. It was a fitting car for the anti-hero Rockford character that James Garner made so popular in the late seventies.



image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00b0b_1XcPieSkk01_1200x900-630x354.jpg

These days, it seems that the aforementioned Formulas and Trans Ams get all the love, but the clean look of the Esprit model is still a very attractive trim option on the European inspired second generation Firebird body. Wide, low and long, the 1977 Firebird design holds up well almost forty years since it was introduced.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00v0v_joJyB2Uq7R1_1200x900-630x354.jpg

Since these cars were for the most part driven into the ground by successive owners, and here in the northeast, suffered from their exposure to highly salted winter roads, it’s pretty certain that not too many of these cars survive now in original condition. So this low-mileage, example for sale here on craigslist near Southbury, Connecticut really stands out, and not just because it is such a bright shade of yellow.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00202_2RcvK19K5i8_1200x900-630x354.jpg

There is alot of like about this car. While I am not usually a fan of vinyl roofs on pony cars, this half roof style is appealing. The yellow paint looks great, though the front fascia and bumper and the rear bumper have the fading that is typical of GM cars from this era.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00u0u_z1cBAMUjPT_1200x900-630x354.jpg

According to the seller, this is not a restored car, but is a 100% authentic, all original, 1977 Pontiac Firebird Esprit. The interior looks pretty darn pristine for an almost forty year old car. My guess is that almost all Esprits were ordered with automatics, as the demographic of their buyers was older, and the whole approach of the car to appeal to the sophisticated, older buyer.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00z0z_7RQGMBQoQae_1200x900-630x354.jpg

This car is said to have been in the same family since it was new. The seller says this car “is completely stock and unmolested,” and the photos certainly support that claim.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00K0K_bGA0cQ2M0Mw_1200x900-630x354.jpg

This Pontiac’s condition is stated as being in between “very good” and “excellent” and this also seems a reasonably correct assessment of the car’s condition.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00i0i_gd2KXanIPDs_1200x900-630x354.jpg

The Pontiac’s mileage is stated as 30,100 and the seller says that mileage can be verified, presumably with registration and repair records.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00p0p_ldLsKKmOlJ0_1200x900-630x354.jpg

The seller claims this Esprit might be one of the best that is for sale in the entire country, and that does not seem far fetched to me at all.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00w0w_658pnd5nL21_1200x900-630x354.jpg

While a high horsepower Trans Am is what many Firebird fans lust for, this Esprit is incredibly attractive, handles nicely and given its highly original condition and known history, has alot going for it, though its yellow hue may not appeal to all buyers. Pontiac made 34,548 Esprits out of a total of 155,736 Firebirds in 1977.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00v0v_3jjxyFbGrt7_1200x900-630x354.jpg

One important factor is knowing which engine this car has. By 1977, horsepower was far reduced from the glory years of even the early seventies. Unfortunately, the seller here does not specify which engine his car features, though at least it is not the base 231 V-6. I am pretty certain the Esprit could be had with any of three V-8 engines, a 305 (Chevy?) cubic inch V-8, a 350 cube V-8 producing 160 horsepower, or the more muscular 400 cube V-8 with 180 hp output. Any prospective buyer will need to find out which engine is under the hood (no photos of the engine bay are provided in the ad).

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/00J0J_hbgXXCkc3Sv_1200x900-630x354.jpg

I also suspect that any potential buyer will want to negotiate a bit on the $13,900 asking price for the Esprit. It is definitely a rare car in unusually good original condition, but Esprits are just not as valuable as their more performance oriented siblings, and I think this asking price is above market value. On the other hand, if you are in love with this model Firebird, you may not find a better one for sale for a long time. I’d love to hear what some of our readers think of this car. This seems like a fun collector car you could drive and enjoy without needing to do anything except continue to maintain its original, clean condition.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a1270510584_16-630x630.jpg

And how many of you remember the Rockford Files?



Read more at http://barnfinds.com/esprit-de-pontiac-1977-pontiac-firebird-esprit/#cG6fgYqrBtpiLqTJ.99
 
[h=1]Ultimate Journey: 1987 Lotus Esprit HCI[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1987-Lotus-Esprit-HCI-630x354.jpg
I have to give this seller a hand of applause! You see they live in Eagle River, Alaska and once made the 300 mile trip from Anchorage to Valdez and got caught in a snow storm in this turbo charged Lotus. Rather than waiting out the storm, they put this British sports car to the test and pushed their way through the ice and snow. They’ve had this Lotus for a while and have already gone through everything to make it a good driver. With 113k miles, it’s likely the highest mileage Esprit still on the road. You can find this Lotus here on eBay and if you win it, you could fly to Alaska and take it on the journey of a life time down the ALCAN highway!


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1987-Lotus-Esprit-HCI-Engine-630x420.jpg
The seller claims the engine, transmission and turbo have all been rebuilt, so hopefully this car has lots of life left in it! With 100k miles, someone definitely got a lot of use out of it.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1987-Lotus-Esprit-HCI-Interior-630x420.jpg
Amazingly, the interior looks to be in good shape still. Of course it’s a late ’80s Lotus, so don’t expect the kind of fit and finish of a new car. That’s alright with me though, it’s just part of the experience!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1987-Lotus-Esprit-Turbo-630x354.jpg
I can’t imagine how incredible it would be to drive this thing down from Alaska. I’ve driven turbo charged cars on the ice and know it can get a bit hairy, so I would want to make the drive while the weather is still good. So would you want to make the drive yourself or would you rather have it shipped home?


Read more at http://barnfinds.com/ultimate-journey-1987-lotus-esprit-hci/#Prl0Udx9raae6xio.99
 
[h=1]Location, Location, Location: $2k 1968 Porsche 912[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/p1-1-e1465793130770-630x395.jpg
So, tell me the truth — even though you may not be a Porsche fan, if you were offered this solid-appearing 1968 Porsche 912 for $2,000, you wouldn’t pause for a moment, would you? I know I wouldn’t, except for one thing–it’s in Bubulan, Kp. Melayu, Indonesia! It’s currently listed here on eBay US for a buy it now of $2,000 or even lower offers are being considered!

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/p3-1-e1465793319659-630x414.jpg
The seller does tell us that the car is rusty inside and out, and the few pictures that are shown prove that. However, this does look like mainly surface rust and certainly wouldn’t scare me off just based on the external appearance.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/p2-1-e1465793389455-630x419.jpg
The rust on the front fenders looks very similar to the roof. The seller tells us the car was originally tangerine orange. I’m guessing that someone stripped and primed it with intentions of restoring the body and never got around to finishing.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/p4-1-e1465793489671-630x421.jpg
The interior actually looks pretty decent, although I’m wondering what the deal with the headrest/s are? I’m sure there will need to be some more work but at least the interior looks largely complete. There’s a 1600 cc engine from a 1969 912 in the car now; no details are given to its condition nor why it needed to be installed in the first place. But you are talking a P-car, albeit a 912, for $2,000–plus shipping! Anyone want to be brave with a zero-feedback seller and give it a go?

Tags: German / Porsche / Project

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/2000-1968-porsche-912/#d1JA8cajDALXdtzt.99
 
[h=1]Special Order: Ford Gran Torino Sport Fastback[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l1600-15-e1465824632218-630x298.jpg
Special order cars typically go one of two ways: loaded to the hilt with the good stuff or wierdly-equipped with features that add little value. Fortunately, this 1973 Ford Gran Torino Sport fastback here on eBay seems to fall into the former category, as it packs a nice blend of performance and convenience options. The seller has tackled a fair amount of work already, but has put the car up for sale to finance a business project. It’s available in New Hampshire with a starting bid of $6,500.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l500-5-e1465824662844.jpg
From the factory, this Torino was ordered with the following equipment: the Q Code 351 Cobrajet 4v, a C6 automatic transmission, HD suspension, floor shift, high back bucket seats, console and tachometer gauge pack and a 3.25 rear end. From a mechanical standpoint, the original owner certainly knew what he wanted in a car with both performance capabilities and sensible equipment. It’s also a factory A/C car that was originally black on black. The seller will include both the Marti Report and Ford 99 Report verifying these specifications. The seller notes that the Fastbacks were one of the smaller production groups, made even more so with the presence of the gauge package, factory buckets and console and HD suspension.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l1600-9-1-e1465824679113-630x366.jpg
While the car may look rough, the seller has performed a fair amount of the hard work needed to set this car up for a proper restoration. The floors have been cleaned up with new metal welded in where any rust had formed; a new interior, including dashboard, goes with the car to the next owner. He’s upgraded the suspension to provide the best blend of increased handling capabilities without making the ride too firm and also retained the original HD suspension. New wheels and tires, a rebuilt transmission, custom dual exhaust and additional parts still in boxes round out the list. The original Cobrajet chrome air cleaner will also be included.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/s-l1600-10-1-e1465824702909-630x395.jpg
While the seller claims he has invested significant money and time into this rare Torino (and there’s no reason to doubt that he has), there’s still more work to do. The interior will need to be finished and he notes the engine bay is decent but could be better. The motor was rebuilt by the previous owner, so here’s hoping it remains sound. The body will likely need some metal work in a few trouble spots and the paint definitely needs a make-over if you want to see it shine. Overall, this is an interesting car that would be more appealing with a finished interior, but the seller is calling it quits now and moving it along. Do you think this is a find worth scooping up or is too labor-intensive?

Tags: American / Ford / Muscle Cars / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/special-order-1973-ford-torino-sport-fastback/#AsW0jzQEf8F41ETU.99
 
[h=1]Fin’tastic Fleetwood: 1960 Cadillac Fleetwood[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061316-Barn-Finds-1960-Cadillac-Fleetwood-1-630x473.jpg
Here’s a beauty, it’s a 1960 Cadillac Fleetwood and it’s in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It looks pretty nice, no? It’s listed on eBay with a price of $6,900 and nine full days left to get your shipper, and your spouse, on board.


image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061316-Barn-Finds-1960-Cadillac-Fleetwood-2-630x473.jpg
We all know the 1959 models with the famous/infamous tailfins. The 1960 is a more refined, tamer, toned-down, and I would say, sleeker and more tailored-looking design. The ’59s were without question one of the most iconic cars of all time in any genre from any country by any maker. But, for me, I prefer the crisper 1960 model, which is the exact opposite of what most of you would think about my vehicle tastes, which usually run 180 degrees in the other direction from most normal folks. I was almost positive that the 1960 Fleetwoods all came with a body-colored vinyl top but this car doesn’t have one, maybe one of you will know why. Could a buyer opt out of that standard feature? Or, maybe it was taken off later?
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061316-Barn-Finds-1960-Cadillac-Fleetwood-3-630x473.jpg
The 1960 tailfins were only one-inch lower than they were on the 1959 models, believe it or not, but, without the bullet tail lamps on them they are just less out there, literally. The seller says that this is “A True Barn Find” and they have a “clean North Carolina title in hand.” Power steering and brakes were standard on the 1960 models, but none of the standard items that we’ve come to expect in even our economy cars, let alone our top-of-the-line luxury cars today were standard in that era. Are we lazier now? Or maybe we’ve just become accustomed to not having the horribly laborious task of having to roll up our own windows.. A few of the 9 metal vertical louvers are missing on the rear on both sides, hopefully those are somewhere, but it looks pretty complete otherwise. It may be a missing badge or two, as well.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061316-Barn-Finds-1960-Cadillac-Fleetwood-4-630x473.jpg
This car appears to be loaded, which for 1960 usually included a body, wheels, and an engine. I’m kidding, of course, but today’s “loaded” cars can steer, brake, and park for you, not to mention give you the temperature, sports scores, and your destination right in front of you. 1960 was a different era, it was rare to have power windows or AC on even luxury cars like Lincolns, Chryslers, or Cadillacs. This one has it all, well, as far as 1960 luxury and technology goes. The floors look a little scary here, but the body looks fantastic on this car so hopefully there’s just a bit of surface rust and maybe rodent damage on the interior. The back seat is loaded with perfect wheel covers and.. something else in that box. It looks like the owner picked out some fabric to redo the seats, although it’s not an exact match and I would want to look a little further before redoing the seats in an incorrect pattern, but that’s just me.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/061316-Barn-Finds-1960-Cadillac-Fleetwood-5-630x473.jpg
Two four-barrel carburetors were available on this car and that would be a real find, this one has just one four-barrel. Not that over 300 hp is anything to sneeze at, even on a 5,000 pound car. Since there is no mention of the engine particulars, I’m assuming it has the base engine, which is a rubber-burning 6.4L 390 V8 with 304 hp. The horsepower went up to 325 and 345 depending on how a person optioned it. This car looks really solid and would make a great starting point for a restoration. Or, just get the interior cleaned up or redone, and clean up that dirty engine compartment and get the rest of the mechanicals working like new, and drive it as it looks here. How would you restore this car?


Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1960-cadillac-fleetwood/#OO62SUmt5RLwpB05.99
 
[h=1]Only 142 Left? 1966 Ford 7 Litre 4-Speed Garage Find[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/f2-1-e1465866208492-630x387.jpg
Over the two years from 1966 to 1967, Ford produced a little over 12,000 “7-Litres.” Based on the full-size Galaxie but featuring special badging, either a 427 or 428 V8 and many special features, the 7-Litre was billed as the “Quietest Quick Car” or “Quickest Quiet Car.” This particular car is located in Sellersburg, Indiana, and is up for sale here on eBay, where bidding is just over $4,000 but the reserve hasn’t been met yet.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/f3-1-e1465867415716-630x421.jpg

Somehow it looks even more sinister than usual in black primer and with the headlights out! The seller evidently intended this rare car as a long-term project, but has decided to sell for some reason. How rare? According to the very informative site 7liter.org, there were exactly 1,717 four speed 7 Litre hardtops produced in 1966. According to the auction listing, there are 142 that still exist (I’m not sure where that information came from). However you look at that, there aren’t many around!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/f4-1-e1465867870246-630x421.jpg
Ah, that’s better! here are some of the new and used parts included withe the car. I’m not sure of the significance of the two different grilles? According to the seller, the car has been sitting in a garage since 1978 and is a numbers-matching car with little rust. The ad tells us that there is some rust in the driver’s side floor pan but that the car comes with a replacement. Also, there is some rust in the trunk, which happens to contain the original transmission, presumably pulled as it has a “bad gear.”
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/f6-e1465868134331-630x421.jpg
There’s a sandblasted and painted frame as well. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with the car being auctioned, although it is available from the seller for “a little more money.” I’m not sure why it’s not included, or even why it would be necessary given that the seller says the frame is solid on the car. Go figure!
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/f5-1-e1465868369638-630x421.jpg
As you can see from this picture, the upholstery actually doesn’t look too bad, but that center console is going to need some work, and that’s one of the special pieces for the 7 Litre.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/f7-e1465868882376-630x421.jpg
Here’s the heart of the 7 Litre! The 428 engine will undoubtedly need attention, and we have no idea how many miles were covered before the car was taken off the road. I know this is one “quick and quiet” car I’d love to drive! Would you?

Tags: American / Ford / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/only-142-left-1966-ford-7-litre-4-speed-garage-find/#HA862rkkBzyT6Osi.99
 
[h=1]1959 MGA Twin Cam Barn Find[/h] image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a2-2-630x420.jpg
This is another one of those unicorns in the British car world. With dual overhead camshafts, four wheel disc brakes and Dunlop knock off disc wheels, this certainly wasn’t a normal MGA. Unfortunately due to teething problems that have all been solved now, only 2,111 were produced, and a lot of those are no longer with us. This particular car was found after having been stored for 30 years and is now in the hands of a restoration shop in LaJolla, California. They are auctioning the car off here on eBay, and if you want them to restore the car it will be turn key at $85,000 total including whatever you pay for the car in the auction.

image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a5-2-630x420.jpg
While the car looks relatively complete, the seller tells us that the seats are not correct for a twin cam. Apparently the shop must specialize in MGA’s; there are several in the pictures and they certainly seem familiar with the twin cam model–they say they have handled 50 of these cars (!) The rust is said to not be structural, but the frame is said to need “normal replacement of floorboard support angles.”
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a3-3-630x420.jpg
It still looks like it has attitude, doesn’t it, even if it hasn’t been on a road in 30 years! It will be interesting to see (although I don’t know how to find out unless one of you buys the car) if the purchaser ends up going with this shop to restore the car or not. The shop has made it clear that you don’t have to, but I wonder what a professional restoration of one of these cars typically goes for? I know you can get $40,000 deep into a TR6 (no, I do my own work, but I’ve watched it happen) so there’s no telling what something as specialized as a twin cam engine would cost to have it rebuilt properly.
image: http://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/a4-3-630x420.jpg
Here is that engine, by the way. It certainly looks intact, but the seller doesn’t even know if the engine is free (Why? It shouldn’t take much to check) but they know it won’t start. I like MGA’s a lot, but I’m not sure I’d want to take on the technicalities of the twin cam engine. What about you? Or would you contract with the shop?


Tags: British / MG / Projects

Read more at http://barnfinds.com/1959-mga-twin-cam-barn-find/#W6hLdrK5l1ZbRtUQ.99
 
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