Archive for the ‘Feature’ Category

Coulda Had A… Oh Wait – 1972 Jaguar XJ6 V8

October 23, 2014

The Jaguar XJ6 is a classic shape, but what if you’re worried about the reliability and performance of the mostly-bullet-proof XJ engine, which by 1972 had become somewhat strangled by smog regulations? Or, what if you want engine parts availability at any old auto parts store counter? Many people performed V8 conversions just because of those reasons, and while most converted cars are relatively expensive, the odd deal is out there to be found. Check out this 1972 Jaguar XJ6 V8 for sale for $2500 in Portland, OR.

1972 Jaguar XJ6 right rear

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Eighties Hot Hatch – 1986 Mitsubishi Mirage Turbo

October 22, 2014

So if you’re bought into the idea of a 1980s hatch, but you’re not a hipster looking to make a statement with a diesel Escort, nor do you want a boring mainstream GTI or Civic Si, and you’re not crazy enough to try importing an Alfasud ti. Well, how about a Mitsubishi Mirage Turbo? It’s less complex than a Mazda 323 GTX, and less tinny than a Chevy Sprint Turbo, but you still get that wacky 1980s turbo kick-in-the-pants, perfect for serious wheelspin on those wet Pacific Northwest days. Check out this 1986 Mitsubishi Mirage Turbo for sale for $3500 in Hazel Dell, WA.

1986 Mitsubishi Mirage Turbo right rear

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Powered by Mazda – 1984 Ford Escort Diesel and 1984 Mercury Lynx Diesel

October 22, 2014

American manufacturers were pretty slow to the game with diesel engines during their first wave in North America. While VW introduced a diesel engine in their compact Rabbit in 1978, it took another 3 years for a diesel to show up in the Chevette, and 6 years for it to appear in the Escort. And by the time those came out, the fuel crisis had waned somewhat, Americans had become disenchanted with the low power and smelly, smoky emissions of diesels, so sales were not particularly great. So it’s unusual to find a pair of Ford diesel compacts available. To get started, check out this 1984 Ford Escort Diesel for sale for $1700 in Clackamas, OR.

1984 Ford Escort Diesel left rear

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