Rot ist schneller – 1987 BMW 535is

April 4, 2014

For anyone who grew up in the 1980s, particularly in the coastal states where European cars are more popular, it’s hard to believe that the once-ubiquitous E28 BMW is slowly disappearing from our roads. The occasional beater 528e is still around, and if you’re lucky, you can spot the odd 535is that’s clearly owned by a devoted BMW nut, but finding a 533i or 524td is like finding a needle in a haystack. Futhermore, in a testament to these cars’ durability and lasting appeal, most have well over 200,000 miles on them. So finding one with low miles in decent driver condition is a pleasant surprise. You can find this 1987 BMW 535is for sale for $4000 in Austin, TX.

1987 BMW 535is right front

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Quintessential 50s – 1959 Ford Fairlane 500

April 4, 2014

In 1957, Ford’s Fairlane sprouted wings for its second generation. By 1959, the car had evolved to share many styling details with its Thunderbird sibling, with a similar grill and front end, and low fins and rocket tail lights at the back (the only styling detail it shares with a BMW 2002!). Nonetheless, this car could be considered restrained when parked next to its Chevrolet competitor, and it sold in comparable numbers. You can find this 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 for sale for $4000 in Spring Branch, TX.

1959 Ford Fairline 500 left front

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Karmann TR – 1976 Triumph TR6

April 3, 2014

With the recent booms and busts of our up-and-down economy, different classic cars have been affected in different ways in the market. Everybody knows vintage Porsches are up, but it behooves every car nut to also understand what cars are down in order to get a good deal on a car that might have cost more a few years back. A good example of that is the Triumph TR6 – values seem to be down slightly, and this means that cars needing a little effort are easier to snap up. One such car is this 1976 Triumph TR6, for sale for $3950 near Dripping Springs, TX (itself near Austin).

1976 Triumph TR6 right rear

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