Hechtspeed

Electric Scale Hechtspeedsters

2010-06-07T10:28:00.003-06:00

Here's some pictures taken at Brent and Poppi's latest flying adventures. I read in the forums that Brent's eightysix was like 2nd in Scale jets behind his buddy Chris Wolfe. :)
I like the picture of Brent and Poppi standing at the runway flying. Looks like it was goodtimes!

SUBYROD

2010-04-10T22:35:00.002-06:00

Just bought SUBYROD today. I love it! Here's Kyle handing over the keys. Oh ya, Josh pee'd on it. I'm being for realz. He pee'd his pants and was standing next to it and got some wizz on the sideskirt. Thanks son! Marking his territory I guess. LOL

Hechtspeed goes down in flames in a blaze of glory

2010-03-31T20:37:00.006-06:00

Poppi and BurtRod took to the small scale sky at California Jets Fly In in Bakersfield this last weekend. Here's some pics posted on rcgroups.com forums of the boys Jets. Oh, and check that last pic, thats Poppi's big boy F-16 going down in flames after Burt screwed the pooch on the landing. Forgot to call the ball man! ha ha Just messin'. Sucks Poppi. Burt better be hookin' a Poppi up.
The new Blue Angel scheme on the Cougar looks amazing Brent.

There's a picture of Poppi's Twinboom "Falcon" thing before it went poof!

Brent's 86 lookin' smooth and scale. Man, these 2 make killer jets! You gotta see these beaut's up close to appreciate the work involved.

HondRod

2010-02-12T22:16:00.003-07:00

Feeling the Hondas lately. Check these beauts out. I dig...

Pics found on honda-tech.com forums. Thanks!

2010: Year of the Suby

2010-01-08T23:25:00.007-07:00

So, its official. I mean, for realz this time! ha ha March 2010 I'm picking up a Subaru WRX, probably a 2002-05 model (bugeye or peanut eye as they're known in the NASIOC in crowd).

Here's my first modification, a custom stainless steel/delrin shift knob I picked up from a local Suby owner. I got the black one, white was already taken.

Here's a couple WRX's that I really dig. One of each color! What color should I get?

My Rat Rod made it on MotorMavens.com!!!

2009-12-24T21:13:00.003-07:00

http://motormavens.com/2009/12/carspotting-gingerbread-hot-rod-for-christmas/comment-page-1/#comment-4432

My Gingerbread Rat Rod made it on MotorMavens! I'm so stoked! The rat was a lot of fun to build. I'm happy that Antonio at MotorMavens.com thought it was cool enough to post on his awesome site! I'm hoping someday I can get a real car of mine on MotorMavens.com. We'll see. 2010 could be the year.

p.s. Check out the "CD.Hecht" signature now gracing my photos! Thanks babe for doing that!

MPG Rod

2009-12-14T13:51:00.002-07:00

Found this on MyRideisMe.com today. It's a T bucket roadster called the "Frankn T" by the owner "Mr. Freeze" from Arizona. It's a custom built frame and will run a 3 cylinder GEO Metro engine. Now, poppi's '90 Geo could get 56 mpg on pure highway driving. Can you imagine this little bucket, which weighs probably 1000 lbs or less...and that 3 cylinder probably makes like 85 hp, which would make this hot rod a spry little fella. I need to build one of these, it looks like so much fun!

Drivetrain:
Motor: Geo metro 3cyl
Trans:
Suzuki Samuri 5 speed
Rear: RX7- 4:11 posi w/ disc brakes
front axle: Ford W 5 in drop

Chassis:1x2 box space frame

Volk Bros' Racing 1929 Street Roadster Project

2009-11-21T23:16:00.003-07:00

Here's some pics I took on Thursday at Larry Volk's garage. It's a '55 Hemi with later model hemi heads (instead of the stock Poly heads) and an Hillborn Injection system mocked up, Halibrand Quick Change and Brookville steel body. Will run on wire wheels and dirt tracks. This is just a teaser, full story coming to MyRideisMe.com next week.

Hechtspeed

Poppi on the Salt Flats

2009-11-19T08:54:00.004-07:00

Saw this pic on the Hecht family site and wanted to post it up again. Poppi at his first Salt Flats Land Speed Racing event. This was back in 2007 at World of Speed. Such a cool pic! He's watching a racecar making its way down the long track. Salt Fever! What do you say Hechtspeed boys? Let's make it the 1st Annual Hechtspeed Hot Rod Reunion! Speedweek 2010! We'll hit the Nugget Car Show, campout at the Bend in the Road for a night! It will be EPIC!!! Maybe Rickrod and Poppirod can make it into the 130 or 150 Club (on the Special course, for street cars, no roll cages needed, etc.). RSVP ASAP!

AE71

2009-11-18T11:46:00.006-07:00

I want this car...Now! It's for sale for $14k in Fontana, California. It is a totally rebuilt/restored 1983 Toyota Corolla. Here's the spec sheet from the Club4AG.com classified ad.

"Testing the waters, for Sale 1983 AE71 Corolla
Black top 20 Valve

Brand New A/C (Ice Cold) converted to R134 and Heater working

RaceToys Velocity Stacks

Brand new water pump

Brand new oil pump

Brand new alternator

TODA Cams, TODA adjustable Cam Gears

TODA Flywheel

Mishimoto Alum Radiator with twin Aux Fan

ACT Stage 3 Clutch

GTS Front/Rear Slotted Disc Brakes

T50 Tranny

GTS LSD Rear End

600 cc coil plugs

EMS Stinger

NGK Iriduim spark plugs

Megan Racing Adj Coilovers F/R

Greddy Oil Cooler

Fully restored interior (Converted to black)

Brand new JDM Chrome Bumpers

JDM Fender Mirrors

Flared Fenders

Custom Lip rear spoiler

Brand new windshield, Brand new weatherstrips all over, Brand new tail lights

Poineer CD with Satt. Radio

ATS Classic Wheels 13X8 wrapped on 185x60x13

Freshly painted by PJ Bonifacio (body color including Engine Bay, Door Jambs and Wheel well)Engine built by RaceToys of Diamond Bar CA

This engine setup is probaby running about 170-200hp is my guesstimate. The car probably weighs about 2200-2400lbs. That is a super fun power:weight ratio right there! Car is totally worth it. It's built by none other than PJ Bonifacio master of Japanese classic restomods. You can't get a brand new car with 1/2 the fun factor or style as this.

Hechtspeed

Car of the Week: J-Tin again

2009-11-16T22:42:00.005-07:00

So, what car is it this week? Well, first of all, its never just one. After dropping in on Solid Autoworks with Deano my WRX owning work buddy, I picked up a JDMLegends.com biz card. This is a new shop in North Salt Lake who can import Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars. The owner is Trey Cobb, founder of Cobb Tuning. So, I've been on a vintage Japanese car kick, you know, Skyline GT-R, Datsun 510, Toyota Corollas...Here's some cool classic 1970's - 80's Japanese "hot rods".

These pics are a mix from MotorMavens.com, JDMLegends.com and the recent HellaFlush III meet in SF.

FT86

2009-11-05T22:16:00.002-07:00

Check this photoshop out. Its the new Toyota FT86 concept. It will be rear wheel drive, 6 speed manual and a flat 4 cylinder Subaru engine making about 180-200 hp. Should sell in the mid $20k.

Ahhh, I jus keeding! Subyrod for 2010

2009-11-02T12:55:00.002-07:00

Ha ha LOL! I guess the xB didn't last until springs 2010. Sorry Rick M! :( I guess I need to stick with old faithful, the Subaru WRX, a poor man's Evo of sorts. ha ha I'm definitely gonna rock some 17x9's or 18x9.5's from Rota. Hard to pass up the price. I'm loving white wheels too. I've always wanted a set. So, I'm thinking Silver on White or White on White....or Black on White? What do you guys think?

Hechtspeed RCs in Vegas!

2009-10-28T20:49:00.005-06:00

Just wanted to show off some pics found on rcgroups.com forums highlighting some RC action in Vegas. I really dig these pics. I think BurtRod was born with a radio in one hand and an exacto in the other. :) Just call him Burt Yeager! PoppiRod is the one who taught him everything he knows. The Hechtspeeders are passionate at their hobbies, that's for sure. The craftsmanship and pilot "shill" these two have are amazing! They are 2 of the best in the business that is for sure. You got a brand new built scale plane that you're scared to death to fly, give the sticks over to BurtRod (known as Corsair Nut on rcgroups.com) and he'll get you dialed in. I'll have to make it out next year to Vegas with the camera and we'll get some proper photographs of your works of art! ;)

Utah Cobra Club Astro Burger Lunch Meet

2009-10-22T21:05:00.004-06:00

So, I get the Utah Cobra Club emails. Last Friday I drove over to the Astro Burger on State Street to take in some yummy burgers and Cobras. There were about 10 cars or so. 2 of which were Kirkham Motorsports cars. The Kirkhams are aluminum bodied, better than originals, Cobras that run real 427 Side Oilers. No paint required, just a polished finished with brushed stripes. WOW!!! Enjoy my crap cell phone pictures.

United Stance of America

2009-10-20T20:48:00.003-06:00

StanceWorks has been my favorite website/forum today! Here's some cars you can find if you do a Google image search for "stanceworks". Lots of bimmers at the moment on stanceworks, but hey, bimmers are hott, especially M3's.

StanceWorks motto: StanceWorks is, well, all about stance.
Stretch, Poke, Tuck, Low, whatever it is, we’re game. We believe stance (and wheels, of course) makes a car- that nothing more is needed if executed to perfection.

Datsun got soul

2009-10-09T22:02:00.003-06:00

K, I'm going to send you over to Motor Mavens for the full report HERE and owners comments about this car. I'll summarize...the owner is 20 years old, used Acura Integra coilovers because the 240Z coilovers didn't get him low enough and the wheels/tires are 15x11 rear with 225/50/15 and 15x10 front with 205/50/15. Them's some wide wheels! Enjoy these pics by Antonio Alvendia from Speedhunters/Motor Mavens fame. Build your cars with character and soul people! Its not just transportation people, its a mode of freedom!

Biddy, biddy Box, funky, funky!

2009-10-04T20:37:00.004-06:00

So, its been 6 days since I decided to get a Scion xB for my next car. I'm proud of myself. I'mm still totally excited for March 2010. The response from my car buddies has been pretty, uh, well, sort of confused you could say. Responses, like, "What, those are the ugliest cars around, why would you want one of those?" To my pap saying, "I've failed as a parent, what are you thinking?" ha ha
But, my buddy RickBox and I are doing the background work for a cool boxy car website, so that is helping keep me focused. Here's a clean lookin' xB with 16x9 Miro wheels from bbsquad.net.

Slab Siders

2009-09-29T22:42:00.003-06:00

So, I believe (hold your breath) I have chosen my next (and hopefully last car for a long long time) car. Scion xB, the first generation model sold from 2004-2006. You know the one...my kids and I call it the "lunchbox" car. I feel like I'm cheating on all those other awesome cars out there, some that have been "car of the week" or even some who made it past the 7 day barrier, cars like the Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi EVO, Ford Mustang, BMW M3/3series, Mini Cooper S, many an old hot rod and the old faithful of sorts, the Honda Civic. Why the xB? Well, I'm a father of 4 now, yes, 4 kids. I commute 50 miles per day roundtrip, so mpg, reliability and affordability are top priorities, not boost pressure, hp/tq ratings or big meats. The other things the "B" has, besides those slab sides is character, style, and cool factor, oh and 4 doors, good head room and superb "style per gallon" rating... It turns heads, even in stock form. I've driven 2 and it puts a smile on my face, and those were stock versions. It reminds me of a 60's vw bus I road in years ago. Just RAD!!!
So, I know what you're thinking..."ya right Hecht, you can't commit to 1 car! This is just your car of the week again. Who you kiddin'?". Well, one of the other reasons is I have a good buddy in the neighborhood who is really into cars and he owns one. Having friends with cars helps you have focus and something in common. I'm looking toward you MooreRod to help a brotha stay focused on the Box. So, look out for http://www.slabsiders.com/ in the future. We just picked up that domain name today. It will be dedicated to boxy cars like the xB, Cube, Ford Flex, and others. We'll see where that goes. Hopefully it will be as rad as these quirky cool cars are.
So, D-Day is sometime in March 2010 where my situation will be such that I can pick up a sweet used 1st Gen xB of my own to modify and enjoy! Until then, it will be "wheels of the week", "modification of the week", "color of the week" and so on. Don't worry, this shouldn't cramp my car style. I'll still post cool cars I dig and car shows and events I attend. Like next week, planning another Bonneville Salt Flats day trip. World of Speed is next week!
For now, enjoy these sweet "Slab Siders" and see you on the Salt!

1959 JC Higgins Cruiser Bike gets a make over

2009-09-15T21:38:00.003-06:00

So, I tried to tear down the Higgins bike all the way down, but I couldn't get the forks off the frame. I'm sure there was a lot of rust holding those 2 together. So, I mask off the chrome and hit the patina paint with some rattle can paint stripper. It worked pretty good. No worries about the chemical burn through the rubber gloves. :) ha ha Then I took some 220 grit sand paper and got as much paint off as I could. Then, I hit the bare metal frame with some cheap spray can satin clear coat. Then I took the light tank and masked off and sprayed a white "scallop". I think she turned out pretty cool. Here's a few pics!

"Car of the Week" Hot Rod Ramblings

2009-09-13T22:54:00.010-06:00

Many of you hot rodders and car nuts are able to stick with one car for years. I don't know how you guys do it? I have what what is called "The Car of the Week" syndrome. Sometimes its as simple as seeing a cool car on the road, then I get on the laptop and start google searching. I look at the classified ads for used examples, forums to see what people are doing to them, and pictures to find inspirational examples. I thought I'd ramble a bit about a few of those cars to give you an idea of how all over the hot rod map I am. There is a goal to this madness, and that is trying to decide on what my next car will be.
This week's "car of the week" is the first gen' Scion xB. That's right. Did I not mention that my car passion has no boundaries? Did you read my Pro-Touring meets Hellaflush story? Just a glimpse into my funky car taste. So, Scion xB...check out this woody xB. I'd build a Box a few ways, old school hot rod is definitely one. It would have to have wide steelies and white walls. Probably not the wood though. But the xB has so much style and character. Plus, it gets awesome gas mileage (35+mpg). One of the requirements for my next car is a big aftermarket. The xB has tons.
The other way I'd wanna build a box is seen by this example. Check that nasty demon camber in the rear. I know, I know, its front wheel drive and yet it has wider wheels and tires in the rear than in the front. WHO CARES! IT LOOKS RAD! The tires are stretched over the wheels and its almost riding on the tires. I don't even know how to explain why I think this car is sooo cool! The closest I can come is that its the modern equivalent of the 60's VW Bus. So fun to drive, so much style and uniqueness. And its practical, roomy and affordable.

One of my other recurring cars of the week is the Ford Falcon slash Mercury Comet slash Ford Fairlane/Galaxie. K, so that's more than one car. ha ha But, they all have the same basic look. So much potential and so many ways to build those Ford products. You've got the gasser look, pro-touring, muscle car, low kustom, NASCAR inspired road racer, pro-street and many more. Parts are fairly easy to find, affordable too. If I had my choice, I'd love to do a 1964 Comet Cyclone because my dad had one. There's a couple pics in my garage of poppi's '64 Cyclone in black with chrome Cragars!
One of my favorite cars at Bonneville Speedweek 2009 was Nick Hoesing's 2 door Galaxie. I hope to bring you a full feature (hint, hint Nick! ha ha). Check out this teaser pic from the salt. This Galaxie hooked me bad and I spent a few hours searching Craigslist across the country. Nick's ride is perfect! Low, clean and cool! It has such style. Nick, if you're reading this, we need to hook that feature up man!

The other car type I drool over is 20's-30's Ford hot rods. They are basically the all-time hot rod. These models were the first ever hot rods and custom cars. They have so much character and style, its crazy! There's just something about these rods that gets me goin'. There's the new Factory Five Racing '33 Hot Rod, all the Brookville metal bodies and chassis' and so many more. These old rods are another with so many modification options: Gasser, 50's-60's dragsters, El Mirage adn Bonneville land speed racers, street rods, traditional rods and so on.
I think my favorite body style would have to be a chop top coupe, 3 or 5 window, it doesn't matter. Coupes are just so cool looking. The body lines are just...perfect. It's hard to explain.
My second favorite body style is the sedan. Being a family guy, to have a rod like that with a backseat would be a winner for sure. Plus, a chopped sedan rod just looks so clean. Check out these pics I found while searching the net. On a side note, for me, there's no better look than a traditional wire wheel or painted steelie with wide white walls.

The other car of the week is not a car but a truck. I'm a huge sucker for the 1948-59 Ford 1/2 ton short bed pickup and the early-mid 60's Chevy C10 pickup. One of the great things about these pickups is they are not uber rare. You can find good project pickups all over the place for cheap. Parts a-plenty too! The body lines of these pick ups are gorgeous too. I love the "stand up" or "straight up" cabs with the big fenders of the old Fords. Those big grilles just say "I'm automotive art on wheels!". The other thing I love about old cars is the metal dashboards. I hate how today's cars are so boring inside and out. A metal dashboard continues the beautiful designs of the 50's and 60's, designs inspired by the aerospace developments of the day.
One other detail of these old pickups is the wood slat beds. Wood has gotta be the best and most stylish material. You can beat it up and replace it. Restain it when it gets weathered.
60's Chevy pickups with their slab sided beds that run smooth with the cab when slammed down low is one of my favorite looks. Match the ride height with a sweet revving 283/327cu in small block Chevy motor and killer wheels and you have one great hot rod. I also really dig the idea of painting a "shop logo" on the door of these old pickups. Shop Truck hot rods are a great concept!

I'll finish off this rambling blog with one more car of the week. The 2002-07 Subaru Impreza WRX and 2003-06 Mitsubishi Evolution. These are modern "rod" of sorts. Their roots are in the World Rally Championship series, doing 4 wheel drifts, jumps and crazy scandinavian flicks. As a daily driver, there aren't many cars that can do it all. They are 4 door sedan's in compact car size with an all wheel drive and a turbocharged and intercooled 4 cylinder powertrain. In factory trim they come with 227-300hp/tq. They are great in the snow (good since I live in Utah), very practical for car seats in the back and have huge aftermarket support.
The "offset is everything", aggressive fitment scene has brought some style that I personally dig. One of the coolest features of the WRX and EVO are the rally spec fender flares and intercooler cooling hood scoop/vents. They get decent mileage too. My buddy just picked up a modified 2007 WRX pumping 360hp and while on a road trip going 70-75mph averaged 27+mpg. These cars are amazing grip cars, meaning they can be setup to kill it on track days on road courses and cone dodgers at autocross events. Enjoy these pics of some of my favorite hellaflush Subaru's and EVO's. Oh ya, you can even get the WRX in wagon form!
So, I've probably just made my decision process that much harder by reminding myself how much I dig the various vehicles noted here. But, I failed to mention some of my other faves like the Mustang, Nissan 240sx/Silvia, Honda Civic, the 50's lead sleds and even the classic aircooled Type 1's (Beetles) and Type 3's (Squarebacks, Fastbacks and Notchbacks). Stay tuned for those ramblings. In the meantime, post up your favorite cars that I should look at. You can tell I'm open to it all. I'm looking for other car crazy opinions and suggestions. Comment below, let's hear your hot rod ramblings!
Hechtspeed

Wheels & Wings: Hill AFB Museum Car Show

2009-08-30T21:32:00.002-06:00

Pretty cool concept for a HechtSpeed'er, right? Warbirds/Jet Fighters and Hot Rods! What else does a Hecht need? :) This Wheels & Wings is put on by The Hill Air Force Base Museum every year. Here are some of my favorite pics!

This shot was taken on our way out. A military land vehicle with a line-up of Hot Rods and Custom cars next to the Hill AFB Museum sign. Cool!

I was hoping there'd be more 'birds out with the Hot Rods. They didn't bring any outside from the museum. They had a business jet and this DC-3. It looks awesome next to this '32 roadster. Looks like it could be a pic taken in '45 eh?

Here's another cool shot of the DC-3 with a custom coupe. Don't know much about this car? What is it? I see an Indian head there, so it must be a '30's Pontiac.

Another shot of that '32 and DC-3. It was just such a cool photo op.

OK, you guys know I've been into Model A and 32-34 Roadsters and Coupes. This Black Beauty Roadster with white walls was probably my favorite ride at the show. This thing has a traditional hot rod look that is just timeless. This car will look Boss in another 77 years. Beautiful!

The Mormon Meteor showed up and was parked in the Fighter Gallery hangar. This thing is big! Love the orange and blue paint scheme too!

Here's THE hot rod of the wild blue yonder! F-104 Star Fighter. Love it in this faded bare metal look! It was missing engine, wings and stab, but hopefully the Museum will resto this thing. Maybe a resto-mod? Slap in a "big block" motor from an F15 or something! ha ha

No Show Vintage Vdubs and Bikes

2009-08-24T23:56:00.007-06:00

My favorite car at the show and the crustiest too!

Radio Flyer trike on the roof rack

Christy teaching me the finer points of photography on this one. Nice!

Love these old 50's and 60's interiors. So classic and cool!

Slick Cal-Look bug slammed down on 5 spoke Empi's

Hechtspeed down the Long Course

2009-08-17T09:10:00.006-06:00

So, these pics are probably 2 of my favorite from Bonneville. This is me riding shotgun in Pike's 1927 Pinto powered T Roadster down the Long Course. What a blast that was! Look at the smile on Pike's face! Classic! :) Can't wait 'til next year! I need a cool rod of my own to take down the track.

Long Course and off into the White Stuff

2009-08-14T09:25:00.005-06:00

So, probably the most memorable moment for me at Bonneville's Speedweek 2009 was the pass I made with good friend Pikesan down the Long Course in his '27 T bucket. Yes, I got to go down the track, the actual racecourse in an 81 year old hot rod. :) How cool is that!? Rad, that's how cool! This year the Long Course was 8 miles long. Wow! It took longer than I thought. After the drivers meeting, the rookies and crew and press can take any car down the tracks and do what they call an "Inspection Pass" to see the surface of the track and get a feel for it.

After the pass, we pulled off the track after the 8 mile marker and pulled into fresh virgin salt. This white stuff is much stickier and wet compared to the prepped/packed down track salt. It makes for amazing pictures to say the least and a lot of salt getting tossed up in the air.

These two cars were from Nebraska. They drove out together in there hot rods. How rad is that!? These pics turned out great eh? Thanks for the pshop TRod.

Hechtspeed

See You On The Salt!!!

2009-08-13T14:31:00.002-06:00

Here's a quick pic that GregRod took of the MyRideisMe.com crew, Pikesan, Hechtspeed and GreaseGirl next to Pikesan's 1927 Ford T bucket roadster running a 2.3L pinto motor with dual webers, a C3 trans and 8" rear with 4.11's. Good times my friends.

See you on the salt

Speedweek 2009 Blog 1

2009-08-09T21:04:00.006-06:00

So, for Speedweek 2009 Blog 1, I chose a few pics that are some of my favorite. TRod photoshopped them to make 'em pop even more. These pics were taken right after Craig Pike, owner of MyRideisMe.com and good friend and I made an "inspection run" down the 8 mile Long Course race track. :O All I have to say is what a cool memory. The first Hecht to make a run down the salt even if it was an inspection pass (hey, I'm in Quality, what do you expect). The track was pretty dang smooth for a naturally occuring dry lake bed. Sure, it was dragged and prepped weeks prior to get it worthy for those 200-400mph+ speeds.

Craig's roadster that I rode down the track can't get any cooler or more Hecht-like. It is a metal body '27 T Bucket Ford roadster running a 2.3L Pinto motor with dual Weber carbs on, hot cam and lakester header. I don't know much about roadsters, but people kept commenting on its suspension setup and I think it has a lengthened chassis slightly. I can find the full specs on MyRideisMe.com in Craig's virtual "garage". Anyway, its the sort of car a Hecht might build with that odd little 4 banger. It was running rich, so it sounded nasty (in a good way). Once it cleared out, it got up and went good. It's runnign 4.11 gears on a C3 (no lockup converter, but its been rebuilt, so she's shifts good) trans.

Craig's roadster's name is Bonnie. So, getting to Bonneville is somewhat of a homecoming for Bonnie because of her namesake and Lakester build style. This was Craig's first time at the Salt and he became infected with "Salt Fever" way before he stepped bias ply on the Salt. He's hooked and he'll be back. He, with my and other's help, plans to write a book about Bonneville. It should be a fun project that we work on during this year. More info to come on that.

Anyway, there's no tach (or speedo, gas, nothing gauges) but Craig said we probably got up to about 70mph or so on the big course a few times. COOOOOL!!!! There's no experience more sweeeter in a vehicle than an open top roadster. Just like last year, experiencing Bonneville inspires me to build my own roadster to drive out to the Salt and get it Salty. For now, I've got a '32 Roadster plastic model that I will treat as my own and do it up proper. :)

One of the coolest things is driving in virgin Salt. It's pretty wet and sticky and if driving an open wheel ride, flings salt everywhere. You'll see that Craig ziptied black hose onto the Webers to protect against inhaling NaCl into the intake system. In later pics I took of the street rods that drove on the flats, the Salt gets everywhere. I really love the pics I took with the salt on coupe roofs and on valve covers and headers. Man, Bonneville is Rad! :)

That's it for Blog 1 I guess. Back to work tomorrow. I already can't wait for next year. Maybe I'll even try and go to World Finals in October (there's World of Speed in September, but baby Zrod is due in Sept, so that's a no go).

In the following Salt Blogs, I'll put up pics (I took about 500+ pics total) of race cars, the pits, the sweet car show at the Golden Nugget in Wendover and our little campsite. :)

See You On The Salt!!!

Hechtspeed

Happy 8-6 Day!!!

2009-08-06T14:14:00.002-06:00

Kind of cool that Toyota President announced this on 8-6 Day!

Pulled from RoadandTrack:
We've reported on this before, but we now have stronger evidence than ever that Toyota is getting back into the affordable sports-coupe game with an all-new model priced at around $20,000–$25,000. This front-engine/rear-drive 2-door will reincarnate the spirit of the 1983–1987 Corolla Levin/Trueno (AE86), a car that's still popular today, especially among drift enthusiasts. According to our friends at Best Car magazine, Toyota's code name for this future sports car is 086A. That it's so similar to AE86 is no coincidence.
Toyota is partnering with Subaru to bring this project to reality. In fact, most of the engineering seems to be coming from the company known for its all-wheel-drive rally cars. Powering the future coupe will be Subaru's 2.0-liter flat-4 equipped with a new direct-injection system, tuned to produce an impressive 200 bhp and 145 lb.-ft. of torque. We predict the car will weigh about 2700 lb., so expect fairly quick acceleration times, probably around 6.0 sec. to 60 mph. The suspension will consist of MacPherson struts up front and a multilink setup at the rear, with the chassis based on that of the Subaru Impreza and Legacy.
Toyota will mainly be in charge of the car's styling. Although both Toyota and Subaru versions will be offered, the two models won't look much different, apart from badging — think Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe.
The car is scheduled to appear sometime in 2011 or 2012. If this future car truly is a reincarnation of the AE86, Toyota and Subaru will have a big hit on their hands.

This from insideline.com:

TRAVERSE CITY, Michigan — Toyota Motor President Akio Toyoda, making his first public appearance in the U.S. since assuming the top job in June, confirmed that the company plans to launch an affordable sports car "in the next few years."
The so-called "Toyobaru" is a compact, rear-drive two-plus-two coupe that's being developed in partnership with Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent of Subaru and an affiliate of Toyota. Both Toyota and Subaru versions of the car are expected to be unveiled this fall at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show.
Akio Toyoda, grandson of the founder, spoke about the sports car and about his vision for the company in a speech here at the annual Management Briefing Seminars sponsored by the Center for Automotive Research.
A self-described "car nut," he said, "I am passionate about driving and I race as well.... I want to see Toyota build cars that are fun and exciting to drive." Referring to the new sports car, Toyoda said, "I am very excited about it, and I plan to fast-track it."
Inside Line says: It's usually a good sign when the boss says he likes sports cars. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent

Hechtspeed

Mazda RX-8 test drive

2009-08-04T20:49:00.003-06:00

9000 RPM redlining 1.3L Rotary with 240hp, rear wheel drive, 4 doors (sort of) and 6 speed manual. Sounds good right? Right-O! So, my buddy at work has owned his silver 2004 Mazda RX-8 for just over a year now and I finally took it for a test drive. I do have somewhat of an excuse though for waiting that long. At first, he had 4 bent wheels and I didn't want to ruin a potentially excellent drive because of that. I didn't want to walk away with a negative experience just because of bad wheels. Then, the clutch went down the "slip 'n' slide" if you know what I mean. Well, he bought some stock wheels from a local autocrosser that were nice and straight and replaced the clutch with an aftermarket "stage 1" clutch and lightweight flywheel.

So, I see if RonRod has any lunch plans since I didn't bring the usual pb n j. We decided to go out and I'd be the driver. Cool! He hands me the keys. I sit in the drivers seat, adjust the seat down and back a little and bring the steering wheel up. I find reverse (by luck) and pull out. I get in first and we're heading out of the parking lot. We pull onto the street and up through first gear to a 90 right. Hmm...that rotary exhaust note sounds yummy. I get into second a tiny bit after the right turn and think "huh, that's pretty quick and responsive". I think again, "man, that exhaust note, even though its stock, sounds good." The tranny shifts quick and easy and pretty solid. The car in general feels spry and light. We make our way to Rancherito's for some carne asada burritos. On the way there, I was driving fairly normal, with the occasional juice to the go-pedal.

On the way back, I take that same 90 degree turn, this time is a left and the slight S-turn before it at a decent speed and it handled great. It almost feels like its not rear wheel drive. It's very neutral feeling. I think it has 50/50 weight distribution front to rear.

Daddy likey! It felt interesting and different, very fun and entertaining. I do love an engine that revs and this rotary certainly does that eagerly. I much prefer an engaging drivetrain like this compared to a turbo 4 cylinder actually. I like how its responsive and connected to your right foot. Sure, its lacking torque, but it doesn't need it to be fun. It actually gets up and goes, I mean, come on, it does have 240hp stock. This one probably had 245-250hp because of the light flywheel. Taking 5 lbs or so off the engine on a small fella like this 1.3L mill is going to get you extra ponies.

So, those are the Good. The Bad? Well, if the Mazda 8 had any negatives, I guess it'd be the lack luster MPG. But, let's be honest here. It's a high strung rotary that makes 240hp and revs to 9000 R's. It weighs 3000lbs on the nose (maybe a few less). It doesn't get any worse than a 230 hp turbo Suby or 300hp EVO, STi and Mustang. I think the 8-ball is rated at about 17-24 mpg.

Slap some 18x9.5 inch Rota wheels and 245/40/18's on some lowering springs, an exhaust and intake to really bring out that rotary music and find yourself some mountain roads and get your Zoom-Zoom on. :)

Now what do I do? :) ha ha RX-8, STi or EVO? Tonight, I feelin' the Mazda Zoom-Zoom. I like the lightweight, balanced chassis and that sweet spinning rotary engine. :) We'll see how I feel tomorrow.

What else should I test drive?

Hechtspeed

Part II: So, Benrod asked about creature comforts, interior, and how it compared interior size wise to the Genesis Coupe. The car I drove had sunroof, leather interior, power seats. That's all I really remember. I was focused on the handling and driving aspects. The interior size though, good question. Comparing in my head the two cars, Genesis Coupe and RX8...I'd say the room was very equal. They both had more leg room available. I wasn't pushed all the way back. The backseat is easier to get to obviously with the 8-ball's suicide doors. The 8 has a higher roof line in the rear compared to the Genny. The 8-ball had a more traditional armrest/center console compared to the Genny, which made my arm sit level if that makes sense. Head room seemed a smidge better in the 8 too. The seating position felt good in the 8.

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Test Drive

2009-08-02T21:09:00.002-06:00

So, Friday afternoon, after making a hobby shop run with Burt, we headed over to Murdock Hyundai. The salesman called me last week and said they received a turbo 4 cylinder coupe with the manual trans (when I was there, they had 3 auto tranny cars, LAME!!). So, we drop in and after waiting for a minute for the Kjarsten, they had a different kid go with me, Tyler. Brent rides shotgun and T-dawg sits in the back. The bummer is that it was like 3pm on a Friday afternoon, so we had traffic when we got on the freeway (and a cop behind me).

The good:

This car is a sweet looker for sure. Especially that Nordsleife Grey color.

The shifter is sweet and solid. That's the trans the WRX and EVO should come with. I also liked the how my arm sat on the armrest while gripping the shifter cruising around.

It had nice brakes. When I got back in my Civic, I really had to push on the pedal.

The seating position was pretty decent, the seats were sweet. Brent kept commenting on how cool they were and how they keep you planted nicely.

The bad:

It's slow, slower than I imagined. It felt like a naturally aspirated 4 cylinder, or maybe that 2.8L inline 6 from a 328i I drove months ago. The first area to address with this car is the power department. It needs an exhaust, manual boost controller and tune. Give me 50hp more and then we'll talk. The aftermarket covers that, but this would be a brand new car and I'd have no money to play with for 2-3 years I'm sure.

It's expensive. Ok, so for new cars, comparatively, its a great value and "cheap" compared to other cars out there. But, I'm on a budget. I need a car in the $10k-$15k range. I'd need a used one and those won't exist for 1-2 years for sure.

Head room is not good. I turned to look behind me and the top of my hat hit the headliner. That bugged. The seat was lowered as low as it would go. It did have a sunroof, which I would not want, so maybe that'd be enough clearance sans sunroof, who knows.

It's rear wheel drive. That's really a good (in the summer) and a bad (in the winter).

The back seat is small and only seats 2. As much as I'd really want an S2000 or 350/370Z, those are 2 seaters. As much as the Genesis Coupe and Mustang GT have a "backseat", its still not very practical when I wanna take the boys cruising, to car shows and baseball/soccer practice.

280+HP Turbo Acura RSX Type-S Test Drive

2009-08-02T20:57:00.002-06:00

Ok guys, I test drove a 2004 Acura RSX Type-S with a Greddy Turbo kit. According to the owner and his emails back and forth, the car is making around 280-300hp at about 8-9 psi. He's asking $9,800, which isn't bad, except the car does have a rebuilt/restored title. It didn't appear that the car had bad damage, but the front end panels had some fitment issues. So, on with the show. How does the thing run? Well, its quick. As soon as the R's hit about 4000 the car starts to pull good and the front tires start to spin. The tires/wheels are stock, so that is one place where a few bucks could go to really improving both the looks and handling. On the few corners Brent and I took it had a hard time managing both the steering duties and go duties. When you stay below around 6k, this would be a pretty cool daily driver. But all that power up top is useless unless you're going like 60mph and over. Brent asked for me to do a little launch, so I gave it a go from a stop sign. I was rolling but less than 5mph. It spun for a quick sec' and then started to wheel hop really bad. Ouch! It didn't sound or feel good. Forget that stuff. I'll have to say this is a big PASS! FWD really does SUCK! I should have listened to my 2 year old and his fwd trike. ha ha

2.5WRX

2009-07-27T23:51:00.003-06:00

So, this 2000 2.5RS WRX swapped Impreza is back on top of my list. The owner/seller emailed me back and said that he has fixed the head/valve tick issue. So, hopefully I can find a time to swing down to Alpine and see it. I love the silver on white wheels look. Those are 17x9 Rota wheels on 235/40/17 Falken tires with a WRX swap and Sparco seat on Function Form adjustable coilovers. Enjoy these pics. Hopefully I can update this post with a test drive review.
Hechtspeed

2 Suby Test Drive

2009-07-24T21:39:00.005-06:00

So, today at lunch, I found time to check out 2 Suby's. The first one was a 2002 WRX wagon with Cobb Stage 2 mods (full turboback exhaust w/ cat, Cobb accessport stage 2), factory boost guage and short shifter (w/ STi knob) and stock suspension. It didn't have the pop that poppirod's Rex has, but I'm sure its because poppi runs the manual boost controller. It was pretty hot too and when I got there and popped the hood, I could feel heat, so he must have been driving it. It's super clean, has 115k miles and he's asking $8000. I could probably get it for $7700 or so if I offer $7500.

The second test drive was a 1995 Subaru Impreza L with a JDM (japanese domestic market) WRX engine and tranny swap, WRX sway bars, Eibach lowering springs, front mounted intercooler, no a/c and a Sparco race steering wheel (fails Christy's 2 requirements). It has all kinds of tuning crap running an STi turbo and full catless turboback exhaust. I wasn't impressed. It's claimed to be running around 300hp, but it felt no faster than the Stage 2 wagon. I noticed on the boost controller that it was only peaking at .75MPa (about 11 psi). It has a super stiff clutch with springs that chattered really bad when off throttle/load and a clanking rear upper strut bar (really annnoying and sort of unnerving). So, I told him thanks but no thanks.

So, the wagon is a possibility. It has a good working a/c, good starting mods (just needs some sweet white 17x9 wheels and lowering springs) and just passed a multipoint inspection at the Subaru dealership for a prospective buyer who bailed out. We'll see...

Benrod's Honda CB-1

2009-07-20T22:19:00.003-06:00

Benrod picked up this nice 400cc inline 4 cylinder Honda CB-1 motorcycle the other week and it's rockin'. Only 13,000 miles and its a 1989 model, wow! Enjoy the pics. I'm hoping Benrod and get his girl to take pic of him riding it, or maybe popping a wheelie. ha ha Not yet cuz, take 'er easy eh you hoser!

You can see like a true Hechtrod, he "modded" it before he even rode it "officially". He stripped the black frame paint the previous owner laid down and did it up in silver. Looks smooth cuz! Also note the dark red Honda Wing decal he added to the tank...Ride On!

Hechtspeed

Japanese Led Sled

2009-07-12T23:09:00.004-06:00

So, all 2 of you who read this know one thing. I'm car crazy! What kind of car? Duh! Any car. Even a '91 Lexus LS400 that's for sale down the street. This thing is sweet! It's got a 4.0L Toyota 32 Valve V8 making 250hp/260tq, rear wheel drive, IRS, leather, etc. It's dark grey, clean as an 18 month old car, not 18 years. It only has 84k miles. What? 18 years divided into 84,000 miles is only 4,666 miles/year. Wow! Low Miles ftw! So, the VIP style is right up this car's alley. VIP? Isn't that for Hollywood and CEO's? Well, yes, and no. VIP style is taking a luxury type car and lowering it down and adding great looking wheels. Here's some examples I drummed up while googling for pictures. Enjoy! So, should I take this thing for a test drive? If you know me, I already emailed my poor unsuspecting neighbor who owns the car and asked some questions and if I could test drive it. :) I am nuts! Japanese Led Sled would be cool and different!

Chris

4th of July, Patriotism, Independence, P-51's, Mustangs and Jack Roush

2009-07-02T09:26:00.004-06:00

First of all, Happy 4th of July, Happy Independence Day! What gets my blood flowin' for the red, white and blue better than Mustangs. Not just Ford's type, but the V12 supercharged winged version, the P-51. When I went searching for some pics of Mustangs with Mustangs, I came across this website about Jack Roush and his P-51's, Old Crow, Gentleman Jim and his newest addition, a B version of Old Crow. Check this web link for more info and pictures: http://www.cebudanderson.com/jroush.htm

"Jimbo" here is livin' the dream. Roush Racing, Roush Mustangs, and now Roush P-51 Mustangs. Geez! Enjoy!

Couple more pics I found

Frank Bullitt Would Be Proud

2009-06-24T23:08:00.003-06:00

Sneak preview! Ok, so not so sneaky, but the installation details coming to MyRideisMe.com soon...

Bountiful Main Street Car Show

2009-06-17T08:00:00.004-06:00

So, we took the fam' to the Bountiful Main Street Car Show and Parade and had a fun time. Lots of people and lots of cars. What a great atmosphere to enjoy "small town USA" with your family and some hot rods. Here's a few of my favorite rods.

S197 Mustang + Rotas = FlushStang

2009-06-12T15:43:00.005-06:00

So, my bro BurtRod and I have been benchracing an idea...adding 18x10's (or 18x9.5's) low-ish offset Rota wheels to an S197 chassis Mustang (2005-2010 for the chassis code clueless). Lots of parts, lots of used examples (especially V6 cars) and not many (read: any) are running this setup. What do you think? Leave a comment! Seen any stangs setup like this in your area?

Hechtspeed

1964 Comet Caliente for sale in Grantsville, Utah

2009-06-08T10:04:00.002-06:00

So, I emailed this guy and he says it runs! He's asking $2000. I think I'm going to call him and go see it. ha ha I think the '64 Comet is the car I'd really like to do because it was poppi's hot rod and I just dig the thing.

He's says: "1964 Mercury Comet Caliente 2 door Hard top, automatic, a/c, power steering. The car has been sitting for years, little rust on the rear quarters. I bought the car for $2500 a year ago with plans to restore it but don't have the time with all my other projects."

Cool Dart 440 rendering and japanese wheels!

2009-06-05T22:12:00.003-06:00

This is a very cool rendering done on pro-touring.com forums in this link here: http://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?p=534546#post534546

It is a good inspiration for how I'd like to build a 60's muscle car with these types of rims from wheeldude.com

Blog Post #200: The Hecht Boys sit in the Volk Bros' '29 Roadster

2009-05-18T22:44:00.004-06:00

So, my buddy Dallas Volk told me that they were going to push the racecar across the street to participate in the car show at the church. I took the fam' and snapped some pics of some nice rides. Here's the boys sitting in the Volk Bros' 1929 roadster Salt Flats racecar. Cool eh?! Check out my feature story on MyRideisMe.com: http://www.myrideisme.com/Blog/volk-bros-1929-salt-flats-record-roadster/

What a cool family, car and history. Thanks Dallas!

Custom Nissan Cube by PCK Studio

2009-05-08T10:54:00.003-06:00

Check this Cube out! This cube is not square! This rendering was done by PCK Studio, a hot rod art site. PCK stands for Probleme Child Kustoms. Cool eh?! This rendering makes me want to get a Cube yesterday. Hope someone builds this thing. It has that surfer rod and some Ed Roth style too. Check out PCK's story on MyRideisMe.com.

MyRideisMe.com and Burger Stop Car Show

2009-04-26T23:07:00.005-06:00

So, I'm stoked! I was asked to be a blogger/contributor to a sweet hot rod and custom car enthusiast website called MyRideisMe.com. Here is my latest blog entry on last week's Layton, Utah Burger Stop Car Show and Cruise-In. Here are some teaser pics.

PoppiRod's dream machines

2009-04-19T21:51:00.004-06:00

So, I asked PoppiRod what he consider his dream hot rods.

"63 galxie 406 tri power 4 speed and 3:90 gears ///or GTO ,63 tempest with a 455sd in it."

So, here's some pics of 63 Galaxie, 63 Tempest and 67 GTO. PoppiRod digs the 67 Goat because of the honeycomb grille action and tri power 389.

A&M Deluxe Customs visit #2

2009-04-15T22:40:00.006-06:00

So, it's been a year and a half since I visited Oregon. I got the opportunity to visit A&M Deluxe Customs in Cornelius. Here are some of my pictures (with my cell phone mind you) that I took of the shop. They had probably twice the number of cars and more employees wrenching and bending metal. They're progressing on the '57 Nomad as you saw on my previous post as well as the coupe (dang, can't remember what year right now). Again, if you didn't see my Visit #1 blog entry in '07, Aaron and Mark (hence A&M) are metal working artists, craftsmen, metallic geniuses, I could go on and on. Seriously, this is top stuff here. I am in awe just walking around this place. You'll see even the machine tools have been pinstriped, powder coated and one even given the tigershark treatment. Awesome! It definitely adds to the professionalism of the shop and the company. Oh, for all you gearheads out there, check out the toilet flush handle...yep, that's a 5 speed shifter swingin' from the porcelain rod. :) ha ha I mostly talked with Mark, as he showed me through the various projects. He would talk me through the various details of what has been changed from the original body lines and design. Even his custom '46 Pickup was getting a new set of wheels and tires. Of course, as a customizer, he is going to smooth out the "American Racing" emblem engraved into the spoke and fill the cap mounting holes. Nice! It will look sweet! Don't worry old schoolers, the black wire wheels and tall rubbers will stick around and be swapped over as needed. ;) I didn't want to leave. But, I'm sure Mark and Aaron and the A&M boys had to get some work done and I had to catch my plane.
Again, I can't thank Mark and Aaron enough for letting me take a couple hours of their busy day to simply talk cars with an obsessed gear head.
Chris "Hechtspeed" Hecht

A&M Deluxe Customs=I Love Oregon

2009-04-15T18:06:00.003-06:00

So, I'm in the Portland Airport getting ready to head home after a good business trip. A trip to Oregon wouldn't be complete without visiting the boys at A&M Deluxe Customs. I wish I was good with the Digital SLR my wife has, cause there is so much metal to shoot. Here's a teaser of their '57 Custom Nomad that is running an LS7. This thing is going to be/is amazing. I'll post up pics once I get them off my camera phone. Dang point and shoot wouldn't work. :(
Thanks Mark and Aaron!!!

http://www.aandmdeluxecustoms.com/

More cool Mini's

2009-04-12T23:25:00.004-06:00

Mini owners love it

2009-04-12T00:28:00.002-06:00

So, here were a few comments I found on a mini forum. These people love these cars. I have heard the same from my coworker/friend/car nut buddy who owned an '04 MCS (Mini speak for Mini Cooper S) for 4 years. He said it put a grin on his face everytime he drove it. Sounds like a cool car!

I agree! I have an older '02 MCS dinan S2 and it never fails to put a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. There may be faster cars out there but not more fun to drive cars than the MINI...

Yep. We traded in my MINI on 3/3 and regretted it so much that we're buying another, less than 2 weeks later. Can you say obsessed? I never thought I'd feel this way about a car otherwise I'd have never sold it.

We won't be able to dine out often like we usually do, but I'll be a MINI driver again!

Yep, coming up on three years of MINI ownership and I'm still a crazed MINIac. Still doing mods, too... completed another minor just yesterday and have a major scheduled for MOTD.

Still hoping MINI does a style change before I'm ready for my next new MINI but even if they don't, my next car will be another MINI.

I still L O V E these little cars.

5 years in May... and I still go out to the garage just to stare at him! I can't believe it

I've owned 2 and possibly on to my 3rd soon. I've driven MANY other cars as well but no car ever makes me feel the same way this one does. Something about them just makes you feel special

2 years old next month and loving it more with every mile. By far the most attached I have ever been to a car. There isn't anything else like it ...it oozes character inside and out ....it even sounds cool.

Pic is from miniutah forum.

MasterD78's Mini

2009-04-12T00:15:00.003-06:00

So, just joined utahmini.com forums. Found a cool guy with a nice Mini. I really like the black on white look. I'm a sucker for white wheels for sure. He apparantly just sold them and is getting a new set, but not sure what color/style. Here's some pics from his blog when he was headed down to a big Mini event in Begaaaaas! He didn't make it. Overheated cause snow was blocking the radiator and warped the head. Doh! But Mini is covering it under warranty. Nice! Enjoy!

Mini Blues

2009-04-11T21:53:00.002-06:00

So, found these on northamerican forums. Likin' these.

Mini...me?

2009-04-10T15:37:00.004-06:00

So, the Mini Cooper S has been a favorite of mine. This is a great car to drive, great mpg, great handling and good quality. Plus lots of airbags for safety. Here are some nice examples.
Check out miniutah.com forums too, I just joined. ha ha

...or a little Scion Tc flushness

2009-04-10T11:56:00.003-06:00

Found these pics on honda-tech of all places for a Scion to be. Love this look. 18x9.5 with 225/40/18 tires. Yes sir!

RSX Type-S could be...

2009-04-09T15:19:00.001-06:00

So, post #188, could be a sign...ha ha

2002-2006 RSX Type-S 6 speed could be the ultimate Chris car. Great mpg (low 30's), good handling, great shifter (Honda wins this), 200hp naturally aspirated, fwd (safe and efficient), good looks and used for $10k-$15k, tons of aftermarket ability.
Here's some nice examples.

Rocky Bunny S13

2009-04-06T13:36:00.001-06:00

This car is so cool! It doesn't even look like a 240sx. It's running a 3.0L inline 6 with big turbo making 500+hp.

Trans Am RC Mustang

2009-04-05T20:44:00.002-06:00

Here's BurtRod's Vintage Trans Am rc car. Lookin' good.

EVO X, likin' blue

2009-04-02T22:02:00.002-06:00

Was searching evom forums and really liked the blue color.

2008 Suby

2009-04-02T21:50:00.004-06:00

So, I'm still not a fan of the latest WRX sedan. I do like the wagon better. Here's some nice ones that show some promise. The STi wagon was the only one to get fender flares. The worst thing you can do to a WRX is remove its fender flares.

Z request

2009-04-02T14:13:00.003-06:00

Here you go Ben and your Nissan nut friend. Check these Z's out.

Cancer patient get's his Cobra finished by friends!

2009-04-02T09:03:00.002-06:00

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=6034840

Here's the KSL feature and quick video. This guy from Provo was diagnosed with Cancer 2 years ago right after buying his FFR Cobra kit. He obviously hasn't worked on it much since then. But, when the Cobra club and friends got together with Kirkham Motorsports, they got 'er done. How cool was that!

Challenge this!

2009-04-01T13:19:00.003-06:00

Found these very nice new Challengers. Really like the Le Mans concept pics. Mean! Let the pony wars begin! Sam Hubinette will be campaining a Challenger in the US drift series this year. Should be interesting.

Subies and Airplanes

2009-03-31T21:05:00.002-06:00

Found these on a suby forum. Off topic, but how about that turbo LS1 cf plane. Wish I had more pics but that's all they posted. Recognize those mountains behind that silver STi and red Mig? Mojave airport.

Further discussion on Cobra n M3 test drives

2009-03-30T15:38:00.002-06:00

Some comments on my review of the Cobra and M3

Hi Dad,

That was a very informative read. That clunking in the rear when letting out the clutch (engaging) was exactly what my 1998 Mustang Cobra SVT did, at only 9k miles. Under warranty I had the transmission replaced and it was much better albeit not perfect. Then at 15k miles I had a striped lug nut in the front-end replaced. Not long after that a recall for the parking brake assembly which fixed the "hard to pull" issue with the parking brake. I believe not long after that some actuator in the engine went and it was $1,200 to repair. That was it, I sold it. When it sold it was in desperate need of a new clutch. The previous owner of this Cobra must have beat the crap out of it and didn't know how to drive a manual transmission. Getting back to the performance. I tend to agree with Chris' assessment. The Cobra was a little "tankish" but despite that feeling, it still cornered and handled well (I matched the speeds of corners as in my 01 GT), and the raw power of the thing kept me, a die-hard Mustang owner/driver, hooked. I've always wanted to test drive an M3, have only heard great things.

Son

None of you guys know Chris, the author of this little article below. He and I work together. He knows cars like Phil knows planes. I defy you to ask him a question he can't answer. Thought you'd enjoy this. He and I spend a little time every day or two discussing pros and cons of various cars. Trying to find the perfect car (like that exists). So far, the EVO is the winner. If the insurance was affordable, I'd still have one. Although, for pure giggles, the MINI is the winner (but not enough room).

RickRod's rebuttal

2009-03-30T15:32:00.001-06:00

It isn’t Hot Rod it’s Tuner or is it Tooner as in Cartoon. Mustangs, Camaros and Monte Carlos are running mid to low 8’s every weekend on street tires and they don’t need 29 freakin’ pounds of boost to do it. What does that dude run for a head gasket, criptonite or unobtainium ? Funding for the 442 got diverted to BYU just like your pappy, who could be running eights in sally by now. Some cars are better to dream about. The reality of the 442 is a mid 14 second wheel hopping, drum brake tank (as in Sherman not M-1 like the Cobra). You wait you whipper snapper some day it will run ! If I die before then Ben gets it. Maybe you guys can put two of them EVO motors in it new generation Hurst Hairy Olds redux. Still no comment on the 32 tube frame kit rod you were thinkin’ about, that’s a HOT ROD !

Words of Wisdom from BenRod!!!

2009-03-30T15:25:00.002-06:00

Haha, Motorweak, that was clever!

But you guys are comparing apples to oranges here. Nobody ever doubted the V8s place in drag racing, nor even challenged it. Going straight and fast has its place, but for the ultimate driving experience, lateral Gs are there to please. Even you have admitted that one of the most fun cars to drive was the Turbo Coupe. 2.3L turbo RWD, good weight distribution, handled well, but it didn’t make 5000 HP, like your “Chrysler” Hemis in NHRA. All Chris is saying is that there is more to the driving experience than raw HP, and I agree. If you had to choose a car to drive EVERYDAY, would you choose the ‘55 Chevy with straight axle front end and the hillborn injected 427, or a ‘64 Ferrari G.T.O.??? Each has its place, but one will provide more general entertainment.

I’m pretty sure you have a 400 horse Camaro at your dispense to drive every day, but do you? You guys are stuck in the 60s man. Dude we have radial tires now, ditch the 70 series Polyglass already!

Gran Turismo baby! Ultimate driving experience. How many times have you been down the 1/4 mile in the last year??? How many times have you taken the mountain road between Lake Elsinore and San Juan Capistrano in the last year?

So we all know the cheapest way to go fast is a V8.
Used Vega = $250
roll cage + tube front end = $2000
700 HP Blown 502 = $15,000
9 inch ford rear end + 30 inch slicks = $1500
9 seconds for under $20K

You will never get an EVO in the 9s for $20K.

But you can get an EVO in the 12s for $20K, plus have a daily driver, plus have a road racer, plus have a rally racer, plus airbags, 4-doors, A/C, passes smog, legal to drive, cool date car, drive across the country, drive up mountains, drive it to the beach, drive it on the beach (AWD what?? - OK maybe not).

Now I think both Chris and I agree, nothing would be cooler than a tube frame 32 coupe in rat rod style for those sweet nights of cruising or the occasional In N Out run. But which of us can afford to have a 32 Hemi coupe sitting in the garage waiting for a cool sunny day. Now if you can have a 12 second car, without slicks, that you can drive in the Utah snow, that you can drive on the miller road racing course, down the 1/4, or up the Big Cottonwood canyon EVERYDAY of the year would you really turn it down so you could drive a hemi coupe 3 times a year?

Why can’t we all just get along???

-Ben

Evolicious

2009-03-28T23:09:00.002-06:00

some nice evo's

Subilicous

2009-03-28T23:03:00.002-06:00

Some nice subies

Cobra < M3

2009-03-27T23:10:00.002-06:00

So, I test drove an '04 Cobra and an '02 M3. Here's my report:
Ok, here's the Hechtspeed Review of the '03 Cobra 6 speed in white (that's right Rick, the best car color) with 78k miles for $15k.
Open the door, put the seat back all the way, hey, doesn't this thing go back further. Oh well, its a Cobra, who cares. Start it up, huh, that's quiet, must have stock exhaust. Let clutch out to back out. I feel a little thud. Hmm, its a Cobra who cares. First gear, pull to the lot exit of this little Used Car dealer of highend cars (also selling a black Z06, a red Porsche with aftermarket wheels, an M5 and an M3 (more on this beaut' later), etc. I pull out and feel another clunk when the rear gears begin forward motion. Lame, this thing must have been beatin' on. Dang.... :( Ok, just putting around because its about 43 degrees outside and this thing hasn't warmed up yet. Come to a stop after getting to 2nd gear. Brakes feel pretty good. On the walk around I saw it has drilled rotors and the 275's on the front and 245's on the rear (huh?). Next street, I get up to 2 and ease into 'er. Yeah, there's the Cobra! The boost guage is a dial from 0-10psi. It saw about 3 psi on that little ease job. Stoplight, turn right and get into 'er again just a little. Nice blower whine, that was cool. I gave it a little mini slalom just to get an idea for its steering feel. At this point the car is feeling really heavy. Everything is heavy and stiff. The clutch is pretty stiff. The shifter is super solid. I don't think anyone makes shifter feel better than Honda and Mustang V8's. Anyway, back to the Terminator. ;) Even the ebrake was tough to pull up on. Geez! So, I sit at a light a few cars back. Green and just a block up ahead is a quick onramp offramp setup. So, green at the onramp (about 4pm, so the meter light is on). Small clutch slip as I'm on the throttle and lay into 'er. First went by pretty quick, second gear and I take her up to 6k (she still had another 1k rpm or so in her I think) and the blower is whinin' good and she's putting me in the seat nice, got up to 70 in no time and I up shift to 4, 5, and 6 to make sure all gears are good, right? :) Then its quick rev matching and downshifting because I'm on the offramp already. ;) (Ben, you remember this little jaunt in Bountiful when you took me for a right in the Camaro? :) The offramp has a bend and I jabbed the thrrotle again and stopped at the light. A few more streets back and I'm back to home base. Man this car is a tank. It's a pig until you nail the throttle. At this point I'm not feeling the car. Sorry bro and pap. But this thing is not my style. It's a straight line monster no doubt, but its no fun to "drive". Everything is stiff, heavy, hard. The seating position was worse than in my Mustang GT I guess because the seat has more bolstering/padding? and doesn't feel comfy and tight like the EVO, Suby or SRT seats feel. The steering wheel is slow, no feeling, and no telescoping adjustment at all. The shifter feels like its a mile away. That clunk in the rear end doesn't feel positive either. Probably wornout IRS bushings or gear slop after all those launches. So, a big thumbs down. For taking a test drive, pretty fun and beasty, but not me. Bro and Dad you guys would dig, but Ben I've got another test drive for you. See below:

So, I ask for a test drive in the M3, a 2002 with 47k miles, silver (second best car color eh), 6 speed manual. Looks stock. I start it up and I here this swanky 3.2L dohc in line 6 cylinder. I idle it for a minute. While waiting for this beauty of german engineering to warm up, I dial in the perfect go kart seating position. Legs slightly bent, wheel closer to my chest since it has telescoping wheel. Put her in reverse to back out. Turn the wheel and say "man, this wheel keeps turning" unlike the cobra which seems to stop after one turn. Give a little throttle and the response seems slow and a little like my civic below 2000. Pull up to the lot exit and stay in first to the stopsign half a block away because it seems to like life at 3500-4000. Come to the lstop and begin breaking and geez, the brakes are right now. Much more feel with less pedal movement. The car already feels lighter. The clutch is like 3 times as light as the cobra (notice its a lower case "c"). The shifter is much easier to move, although not as solid as even my civic, but better than a wrx. So, I'm in 2nd and give it a little push on the go pedal. That swanky (this is the word that best describes this beauty) 6 is a revver. It's sort of like a honda how it doesn't have much below like 3-4k. I get to the right hander and then do the same mini slalom to feel the steering. I'll tell you what, the M3 was better than the cobra, but still not EVO steering. So, I get to the drag launch light at the onramp. I go for it pretty decent. I took it up to about 7k (redlines at 8000). When I was in second that swanky exhaust note and intake note are music to my ears and that pull at about 4500 to 7000 was awesome. It felt almost as fast as the cobra. It is ranked at 333hp/260tq vs Cobras 400/400hp/tq. Overall the difference for me was the light feel and the willingness to be driven. Can't explain it any better. This car just made me want to keep driving it. I wanted to take a longer test drive, try out more roads. So, I got up to about 70mph on the onramp/offramp thing and came to that bending offramp and was rev matching and it was just so fun. That thing is cool! Too bad they're asking $24k. ;( (good deal I guess, but you can get a nice used evo or sti for that). The M3 when putting around in low revs is a doll. Feels like the 328i I drove in late '08. Real pedestrian and quiet, easy to drive. When you open up that swanky 6, that's pure sauciness. Love it!

Verdict? M3 kills it. As I gave the M3 key back to the guy, he asked how it was and I said, well that ruled out the cobra! ;) So that's it my friends. M3 wins. Cobra out of my mind. Ultimate Driving Machine? Yes. So, where does this leave me? I will say that the new '05-09 Mustang GT and Bullit I drove felt more fun to drive than the Cobra. Plus at 300 hp on 87 octane, that's a much better driver than the Cobra when you consider gas and insurance. The Cobra is for hard core Mustang guys for sure. That car needs an intake, exhaust, pulley and tune to really wake it up and make it worth the tankiness it has. It needs to be on the 1/4 mile. It's no good anywhere else. So, I think my choice of my next car will be an EVO/M3 as first choice and an STi/05-09 Mustang GT as second and a WRX and Civic Si third.

EVO's, Suby's and Mustangs, Oh My!!!

2009-03-27T13:49:00.004-06:00

So, did a little Google Image searching and found these nice examples. My next car will likely be one of these. Practical, mod friendly, fun to drive. What else do you need?! ;)

$310,000 M3

2009-03-25T10:17:00.003-06:00

So, I had to post pics of this thing after seeing it again on insideline.com the other day. This is a limited edition (50 cars) built with the goal of taking the "modified stock" Nurburgring lap record, held currently by the Dodge Viper ACR. This M3 probably has a shot with 500hp from its 4.4L (bumped up from 4.0) V8, weight saving diet, widebody kit with extra wide 315's. Pretty shweet eh? ;)

S197 Mustangs

2009-03-23T21:50:00.003-06:00

Sweet Gen Coupe from Korea

2009-03-23T10:44:00.001-06:00

Love the exhaust on this thing. The wheels are aight. I dig red but wouldn't buy it, I don't think. ;)

VW Mk II's are cool, but old

2009-03-22T23:44:00.005-06:00

So, in my ksl and craigslist classifieds searching this week, I came upon a cool $1500 '88 MK II Golf GTi with a 16v swap, with cams, int and exh and springs/shocks. It got me checking out the vw vortex forum. Found these cool pics. I guess its that combo of boxy body with fender flares. Love it!

Big Dog Chopper sighting

2009-03-20T21:15:00.001-06:00

So, when checking out the G35, this Chopper pulled in. It had a super wide fuel tank and of course the obligatory fatty tire and fender. Cool!

Infiniti G35 Coupe test drive

2009-03-20T21:08:00.002-06:00

So, here's a "stock pic" of a black 2006 Infinity G35 Coupe with a 6 speed manual trans. My buddy at work is looking into these cars because he really wants a rear wheel drive car with a back seat. This was at a Nissan dealership. It had a Jim Wolf intake, an ailing throw-out bearing and front tires that were gone (they made tons of noise at certain lower speeds. The car felt substantial, very solid. The v6 just made you want to get on it in lower gears and speeds. It had one of the best engine notes I've ever heard. For me personally, the car was a little too big and heavy. It handled things well, it took corners well. It's a little too high end for me though. I wish Nissan made the Z car with a back seat. Oh well, then it wouldn't be a Z. ;)

Civic Si test drive

2009-03-20T21:01:00.003-06:00

So, I checked out a 2007 silver Civic Si sedan at an Acura dealership. I really liked the car. I liked how the seating/driving position was very adjustable for my tall frame. The steering wheel was a little smaller, height adjustable and telescoping. I was able to have my legs stretched out more while still having the wheel closer to my chest. The car felt nice around town. The 2 times I revved it up to about 7000 rpms or so, when it hit 6000 rpms vtec, it was very noticable kick. The car felt very strong. I think it would be a great daily driver with good handling. Here's a quick pic. It had about 27k miles and they were asking about $18k. They also had a dark grey one with lame-o pinstriping.

Fresno Autorama hot rods

2009-03-17T21:31:00.004-06:00

So, Speedhunters killed it again, this time with its coverage of the Fresno Autorama, which is in its 50'something year with about 250 cars that arrive by invitation only. These were some of my faves'.

2009-03-12T21:07:00.002-06:00

So, my car buddy at work test drove an SRT-4. I have eyed these cars since they came out new in 2003. They won Sport Compact Car Magazine Car of the Year. Here's some basic info snagged from modernracer.com:

"The 2003 original's horsepower and torque figures were grossly underrated. While rated at 215 hp, the actual figure is closer to 250 hp. For 2004, the engine has been rerated at 230 hp, which is probably still conservative. The original did not have an LSD to take advantage of all this front-wheel power, but it is now offered as a Mopar aftermarket accessory by Dodge themselves. The 2004 SRT-4 features a new torque-sensing limited-slip differential as standard equipment. Developed in conjunction with performance specialists Quaife, this feature provides more traction when accelerating out of the corners or anytime the throttle is floored. The torque curve peaks at only 2200 rpm and remains flat well into the rev range, while maximum boost, variable between 11 psi and 14 psi depending on weather condtions, comes on fairly quickly.
Dodge's own Mopar Performance has been offering several "stages" of performance upgrades for those who want to push their cars to the brink. The $399 Stage 1 turbo upgrade kit pushes the SRT-4's 2.4-liter turbocharged engine to an underrated 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Next in the catalog is the Mopar Performance turbo blow-off valve, designed to prevent both premature boost leakage and compressor surge. The $1500 Stage 2 turbo kit boosts the engine up to 280 hp and 300 lb-ft in "high-octane" mode, while the Stage 3 raises the bar up to 355 hp and 365 lb-ft, costing you between $2700 to $3700 depending on what upgrades you've already installed. Other catalog parts include a short shifter and gauges, among other things.
New BF Goodrich KDW2 three-season tires also are standard equipment on the SRT-4. Other new features include a sunroof and side airbags as options. Blue paint replaces yellow for the 2004 color palette, which includes red, black and silver. Orange paint has been added for 2005."
The car I drove was an '04 red Stage 2 car with 45k miles on it. It appeared to only have a set of lowering springs (yellow in color), otherwise stock. I really liked the seats. Hunkered down and swallow you up. The bov was loud. I guess it was stock. The yummy burble when down shifting. Great torque. I didn't get on it, but once to get on the freeway (about 70% on it). They are asking $9985 or something like that. It is a Theft recovery with a rebuilt title. I'd totally dig this car. Not bad on the price and miles and power. Great combo! Just needs a better set of wheels. 205/50/17's on 17x6 wheels don't cover it. Doh!

Look at new Hyundai Genesis Coupe in person

2009-03-12T21:01:00.002-06:00

More cell phone pics. This time of the new Hyundai Genesis Coupe. These were identical models, one silver and one grey. They were both V6 auto trans Grand Touring cars, so no Brembos or 19's. They (Murdock Hyundai and Ken Garff Hyundai) were both asking $29,875. The car looks great, I love the lines. The interior had good shoulder and leg room, but was a little low on head room. Manageable I'm sure. ha ha Can't wait for the turbo 4 model in R-Spec mode.

Mustang Test Drive

2009-03-12T20:56:00.002-06:00

So, my car buddy at work was interested in getting a new gen Mustang GT. He found this one at a nearby Chevy dealership of all places. It was a 2007 with like 150 miles on it for $23k or so. It had wheels/tires, carbon fiber interior stuff, bright orange paint. So, he was driving and merging on the 15 freeway from the 215 and was haulin'. I glanced a police car right in front us and he hit the brakes and cruised just behind and to the right. Luckily he didn't see us. Phew! They wouldn't give him what he needed for trade in so he ditched that idea. Here's the pic after the beating.

Kaysville Car Show summer 2008

2009-03-12T20:51:00.003-06:00

So, these pics I took with my cell phone last August. Jake and Matt and I picked up my cruiser bike and then stopped by the Car Show. We took these pics. I talked to a guy with the '64 Comet. Nice cars! The boys had fun too.

AMS 1984 Porsche Wide Body 17x14" and 465whp on 93oct

2009-03-11T20:41:00.005-06:00

So, this build by AMS is insane! Here's the quick spec sheet I found (as well as the pics) on nasioc.com of all places.

465whp @ 6300 and 413wtq @ 4000-5500
1984 Porsche 911 3.2 Carrera

* 3.3 Twin Plug Race Motor
* Race heads with gt2 evo cams, springs and retainers, 4 angle valve job
* ARP hardware throughout
* DTA Fast Stand Alone
* RSR 935 Rebel Racing Coilovers
* RSR Rebel Racing Swaybars
* RSR 935 Rear Spring Plates
* RSR Wide Body
* Custom AMS 5252E Turbo Kit
* Custom AMS Intercooler
* Custom AMS Fuel system
* Custom AMS Ignition system
* Custom AMS Hydraulic Clutch Conversion
* Fuel Safe Bladder Racing Cell
* 4 Speed Short Bell Housing 917 Trans
* Hargett Precision Race Shifter
* Autopower Roll Bar
* Buddy Club Seats
* Takata Harness
* 17x14 rear 17x11 front ZE Forged Wheels

The car is not quite done on the exterior. It still has the rest of the wide body kit (sides I guess) and apparently a killer rear decklid (probably a big scoop in store for that Large and in Charge Top Mount Intercooler). I personally think the tires are a little too meaty. It makes the car sit up a little high. They're 335 wide. Maybe a 295 would fit it better, or look better. But with about 550hp and 2300 lbs, its going to need all the meat it can get under there.

Sweet tuned BMW

2009-03-11T20:30:00.003-06:00

So, I've had these pics on my wifes laptop for like a month. I'll finally post them up. I really like the stance of this 3 series. The wheels are perfect. I love the fender flares. Simple but very different and it really sets this bimmer apart for sure.

Irwindale (OG) Dragstrip

2009-03-11T09:48:00.001-06:00

So, this is a shout out to Rickrod and Poppirod. This is a pic I found on the net of an AMC pullin' the fronts off with the Irwindale Dragstrip signage behind it. I'm sure Rick and Rodg' grabbed a few hot dogs from that Snack Bar in the background. Rick and dad, any cool stories to share with the second gens about the 'Dale from back in the day? Maybe you saw this car run or you were there that day? ;)

Dreaming in Scale

2009-03-10T11:31:00.003-06:00

So, Benrod finally posted up some pics of his Vintage Trans-Am Camaro rc car. Looks great cuz!

Ford Capri RS, another Ford we don't get in the US

2009-03-09T23:50:00.004-06:00

A combo between the Mustang, Mustang II, Pinto and somehow, it turns out better than all of them. I don't know much specs on them, but it appears to have had a 2.0L 4 cydliner and rear wheel drive and built in the early 70's. I threw in a pic of a concept Capri for today's market. Looks awesome!

Volvo 1800e, yep a Volvo

2009-03-09T23:27:00.003-06:00

This Volvo 1800e is part Jaguar, part Studebaker...It's got some great lines don't you think? Found this brownish/copper colored one for sale here in Utah. What a cool project this would be. This was Volvo's attempt at a sports car. Too bad it didn't catch on.

Beautiful 1st gen Corolla

2009-03-09T23:14:00.002-06:00

So, I'm posting a lot tonight. I've had these pics sitting on my computer. This orange crush corolla is perfect. It even sports the Trueno Sprinter 2T-G dohc 1.6L engine that made about 120hp stock (give or take, can't remember the specs). It was the basis for TRD's race engine. This orange example has teh stance down right, the great wheels, perfect resto all around. This thing must be a blast to drive.
Enjoy!

Alfa Romeo GTV

2009-03-09T23:08:00.004-06:00

So, the Alfa was the big competition from the Italians that battle the likes of the BMW 2002, Datsun 510, and the likes. It's got a great look. They're really expensive these days, but I wanted to post it up anyway.

The Honey Bee

2009-03-09T23:01:00.004-06:00

So, I learned that the B210 has been nicknamed the Honey Bee. Could be the honey comb grill. Here's some pics of some nice 210's. See, they have potential. At least for a nostalgic j-tin lover.

Datsun B-210

2009-03-09T22:40:00.002-06:00

What, another old school jap car. So, while searching the ksl classifieds, I spotted this '76 B210 sedan for sale in Cedar City for $335. Looking past the wacky paint scheme, this thing has potential.

New Ford Focus RS

2009-03-06T09:27:00.003-07:00

So, I need to first mention that this car is not coming to the USA. This is a Team RS developed car from England. Rats! But, its awesome in its own right. This is the perfect Focus. OK, it doesn't have awd still, but engineers say they reach their goal with this car with "only" fwd. It keeps down the weight, cost, complexity. The car weighs 3,236lbs, so its not exactly "lightweight" anymore. It's only 200-300 lbs lighter than the STi and EVO X, but it has more power, try 301hp at 6,500 rpm using 20 psi from its Borg Warner K16 turbocharger. The sweet deal is its makign 325tq from 2,300-4,500 rpm's! What?! That's as much as the latest Mustang GT with its 4.6L 3 valve V8. Huh!?! Come on Ford, put this engine in the Mustang base model! It's an inline 5 cylinder Volvo based engine tweaked by Team RS. It does 0-60 in 5.9 seconds. Not bad considering its fwd. But its top speed is 163 mph! Whoa! It wears 235/35/19 Continentals, that's big. It's key to "minimizing" torque steer is a new patented "RevoKnuckle" front suspension. Not sure what that means, but it doesn't rid itself of torque steer. ;)
I love the interior and green paint. But, I'd take one in silver or white before this green. But I do dig the body kit, fender flares, rear wing and front end. It will sell for $36k, not cheap for a Focus, but this Focus is an RS. Nuff said! My question to the editor who wrote the story here on insideline.com is, "How much does it beat the Cobalt SS by on the Nurburgring track?"

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FirstDrives/articleId=142949?tid=edmunds.il.home.photopanel..3.*#2

Coverts Corvettes Part 2

2009-03-05T22:10:00.002-07:00

So, my buddy rented this nice Hertz Vette in Az. So cool!!! He loved it, as vettes are his all time dream car. It was only $7 more than a Chevy Cobalt. That's a no brainer.

Trans-Am Racing goodness

2009-03-04T21:40:00.005-07:00

So, continuing the 70's racing theme I guess, I found some killer pics of Trans Am Mustangs, Cougars and Falcon. I think it would be so cool to cruise a killer street 65-70 Mustang Coupe (fastbacks are too expensive)done up in a trans am style but with a late model 302 fuel injected engine with a T5 5 speed tranny.

Poor man's Porsche

2009-03-03T22:28:00.003-07:00

So, when I got my license in 1994, my dad had a 1975 Porsche 914. I wish we had more pics of that thing. It was so fun to drive. A dual tip dual exhaust, copper paint, riveria wheels, super stiff suspension, a/c, a tranny that needed a rebuild as it was always a pain to find second and third gears. I helped my dad repaint it, rebuild the engine with rebuilt heads (Mark Stephens High Performance), a cam, and the original fuel injection. So, in memory of that car, here are some nice 914's. Enjoy!

BMW 2002

2009-03-03T12:33:00.003-07:00

So, found 2 nice BMW 2002's (early 70's) for sale on ksl.com. These are nice examples, perfect platforms for a fun car with character. Decent gas mileage too eh. From what I remember, the beige one was $1500 and the blue one $3900. I'd take the beige one. Cheaper and in better shape.

70's Japanese Vintage Racing

2009-02-27T23:59:00.005-07:00

So, found these killer pics on japanesenostalgiccar forum. Really lovin' the Celica's with fat rear wheel/tire combos. If I had a 70's Celica, I'd want it to look like that man!
Check that orange Mazda RX pulling the inside front wheel off the ground on corner exit. That's some serious traction and chassis stiffness (I guess right?...). I love me some vintage J-tin with fender flares and big meats.
They don't make cars like they used to. Chrome bumpers, metal, fender mirrors, 14x9 wheels, carbed dohc 4 cylinders screamin'. I was born 20 years too late. ;)

Potential of a mid '70's Toyota Corona

2009-02-26T21:34:00.003-07:00

So, these are some nice modded Corona's I found on the net. japanesenostalgiccar.com forums. Gotta love the small diameter, wide japanese vintage wheels, simple exterior mods, fender side mirrors and fender flares. Man I love this old japanese classic cars. Gotta get me a project car once the basement is finished this spring/summer. ;)

1974 Toyota Corona 2 door coupe for sale in Ute

2009-02-26T21:28:00.002-07:00

So, this '74 Corona is going for $1000 up in Ogden. It's been in one family since new. It looks to be in great shape. The bummer is its an auto trans (3speed). It has an 18RC (2.0L 4 cylinder) which is pretty trusty. I did some searching on google images for corona's and almost all i saw were 4 doors or a 2 door hard top without the door post and a more "fastback" shape rear area. I confirmed that by the looks of the front end, its definitely a '74. Anyway, a cool find for someone looking for a vintage Toyota.

Crazy headers on this 4age

2009-02-26T21:25:00.002-07:00

Dude, check these headers. This is on an 86 I found on 7tune.com. I don't know how they made these headers. It's like a piece of art. Probably flows nicely too.