Performance Cars Dominate Hemmings Motor News Top Ten 'Sleeper' Collectibles for the Year 2001
21 July 2000
Performance Cars Dominate Hemmings Motor News Top Ten 'Sleeper' Collectibles for the Year 2001
BENNINGTON, Vt., July 21 Hemmings Motor News, "the bible"
of the old car hobby, has announced its 13th annual "top ten" picks of
"sleeper cars" overlooked collector cars which will appear in the November
issue of Special Interest Autos, its bi-monthly collector-car magazine. The
ten "sleepers" were chosen by editor Richard Lentinello for their potential
future appreciation in the collector marketplace, which is becoming
increasingly dominated by mature Baby Boomers looking for the performance cars
of their youth.
When selecting "sleepers", two basic criteria are followed. First, the car
must be available for under $10,000. Second, except for truly exceptional
cars, at least two or three years of the same model should have been produced
to broaden the collector's chance of finding a good example. Lentinello's
analysis of price and collecting trends in the hobby has produced the
following list, presented below in alphabetical order.
1) AMC Javelin, 1971-74
Having won the Trans-Am racing series in 1971 and 1972, the Javelin became
one of AMC's top selling models during the early Seventies. Available in three
distinct trim levels, these hump-fender models range from a base model with a
straight-six, the SST to the high-performance AMX. Powered by either
150 horsepower 304 cubic inch V-8 or a 245 horsepower 360 cubic inch V-8, the
SST was the most popular of the three averaging more than 22,000 in sales per
year. The most sought after model is the Javelin AMX, with its 401-cubic inch
V-8 putting out a very respectable 330 horsepower, it was a car that gave
higher priced Chevelles and GTOs a tire smoking run for their money.
Regardless which V-8 version you choose, these distinctive muscle cars are
extremely affordable, costing about $4,000 for one in average condition.
Several fully restored AMX models have been listed for sale in Hemmings Motor
News for only $8,000, and that's just a little more than half the price of a
comparable Gran Sport, Chevelle, 4-4-2 or GTO. The Javelin is clearly an
outstanding alternative muscle car for the enthusiast on a budget.
2) Buick Riviera Gran Sport, 1965
Considered by many the epitome of clean, elegant design in a mid-size car
of the '60s, the freshly revamped '65 Buick Riveria found few detractors when
it was introduced to the public. From its concealed, stacked headlamps tucked
into tall fenders and cavernous, reverse-sloped grille, to its smooth, stylish
flanks and restyled rear with taillights integrated into the massive chrome
bumper, this was a looker that offered excellent performance, handling and
ride qualities. When optioned as a Gran Sport, the Riviera's already strong
performance was enhanced by the 425 cubic inch Super Wildcat engine with dual
four-barrel carburetors helping it make 360 horsepower. Backed by the newly
introduced Super Turbine 400 automatic transmission and a limited slip rear
end, the Gran Sport stunned automotive journalists with its performance and
luxury. Inside, true 2+2 seating, tilt-steering, walnut trim and a massive
console and dash arrangement are constant reminders that you're in one of the
earliest luxury/muscle hybrids. Whether you're out for a Sunday drive, a trip
to the grocery, or a long-distance haul, you'll get more approving smiles and
thumbs-up than any Lexus, Mercedes or other modern counterpart -- and it won't
cost you the kid's college tuition either. Well, you may have to hit the kid
for a semester's worth, as the examples listed in Hemmings Motor News range
from about $5,000 for GSs needing some TLC to $10,000 for a decently restored
example.
3) Chevrolet Corvette LS4 coupe, 1974
The most highly-prized Corvettes today are those originally equipped with
big blocks. Powered by very powerful 396-, 427- and 454 cubic inch V-8s, these
big-block monsters also carry big price tags. Nevertheless, if your heart
desires a big-block Vette but your bank account shouts small block, the 1974
Stingray is the Corvette for you. The last year Chevrolet offered a big-block
V-8 in a Corvette was 1974, which makes this model all the more appealing
since it represents the end of an era. First offered in 1970, the 454 cubic
inch V-8 produced an emission-control-strangled 270 horsepower in 1974, which
was deemed quite worthy by 3,494 buyers. Only recently have these
rubber-bumper big-blocks caught on, no doubt helped by the high asking prices
of earlier big-block Corvettes. If you're a little handy, you can still locate
a decent running example in coupe form with matching-numbers, that requires
fresh paint and some tinkering with the mechanicals, for about $5,000. A
4-speed version in excellent condition was recently offered in Hemmings Motor
News for $10,500. Best all, these cars enjoy excellent parts supply and
support from hundreds, of Corvette specialist vendors and clubs nationwide.
4) Dodge/Shelby OMNI GLH-S, 1986
Dodge's "American Revolution" campaign brought America the four-door
economy car that was "No More Mr. Nice Guy." From '84 to '86, the
turbo-optioned GLHs made life miserable for the owners of performance imports
as, well as Camaro, Mustang and Corvette owners of the day. They were
inexpensive, quick, and handled on a par with or better than many more
expensive rivals. When the 175 horsepower GLH-S debuted in '86, one still got
Dodge's rather crudely built economy platform, but it could pummel the
competition into submission and give its owner ear-to-ear grins from
tire-smoking torque-steer. Only 500 of these Shelby-badged black and silver
brutes were built, and today finding one in mint condition is a difficult task
as they were, and still are, driven and raced hard and put away wet. Replacing
mechanical parts is a simple matter as the Turbo II engine and driveline was
used in a variety of Dodge products. The cosmetic pieces (hoods, graphics,
interior, etc.) are a little harder to come by because of the limited
production run. That this is an up-and-coming collectible is evidenced by the
appearance of restored cars and the few pristine original examples cropping up
at Shelby Dodge Auto Club events and Mopar shows throughout the country and
the fact that it's a Shelby-modified performance auto. However, great bargains
are still to be had, with recent Hemmings Motor News ads listing several
GLH-S's needing work in the $5,000 range. Expect to pay close to $10,000 for a
restored car or a low-mileage original in excellent condition.
5) Hudson Super Jet, 1953-54
Cars of the Fifties are among the most extraordinary looking automobiles
ever produced. Among them one of the most sought after is the Hudson Hornet,
but at prices that parallel its rarity. The downsized Hudson Jet makes a
charming and affordable alternative. Smaller than its big brother Hornet, it
features that trademark Hudson look with its wide, mouth-like, grille opening
it was produced for only two years, but more than 21,000 Jets and Super Jets
were built in 1953 alone, making parts not too difficult to find. Because of
their entry-level status in the hobby, most available jets are in need of
restoration, which makes membership in the Hudson-Essex-Terraplane club an
absolute must. Like the Hornet, the Super Jet features a 104 horsepower L-head
inline-six with a very durable chrome alloy block displacing 202 cubic inches.
The most collectible Super Jets are those equipped with the optional "Twin-H"
dual carburetor setup. Other desirable options include the continental kit and
rear skirts (included on a Super Jet for sale in Hemmings Motor News with a
$6,500 asking price). Compared to other Fifties cars, the Hudson Super Jet is
one of the most unique, affordable special-interest cars you can buy.
6) Jensen-Healey, 1972-75
The Jensen-Healey is one of the most forgotten British sports cars ever
built. Produced for only four years, it sports a fairly conservatively-styled
steel body built for two with a semi-exotic powertrain in the form of a
Lotus-built engine. This 1,973cc four-cylinder is a jewel of an engine that
features an aluminum cylinder head with twin overhead camshafts, 16 valves,
and dual carburetors that help it develop 140 horsepower. Weighing a svelte
2,116 pounds, its excellent power-to-weight ratio makes for a very
exhilarating ride. Although only 10,402 examples were built, they are fairly
easy to find judging by the 1/2-dozen or more examples that show up for sale
in Hemmings Motor News each month. All mechanical and electrical parts are
readily available, but the body panels will take some searching to locate. If
you prefer to stand apart from the MG and Triumph crowd, getting yourself
seated behind the wheel of this very-special-interest sports car will be just
as inexpensive. Complete but rundown examples going for $2,000 or less, and a
Jensen-Healey in excellent condition can be purchased for about $6,500 to
$9,000.
7) Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, station wagon 1970-72
Need lots of room, but hate the thought of being a follower of fashion in
a dump truck-sized SUV? Think station wagons! Having been forgotten during the
last decade due to the popularity of mini-vans and SUVs, older station wagons
are fast gaining in popularity thanks to their unique combination of 5- to
9-passenger seating, huge cargo area and V-8 power. One of the most popular
wagons ever built was Oldsmobile's sleek Vista Cruiser with its distinctive
glass roof panels that kids adored. Riding on a stout frame and heavy-duty
suspension, the Vista Cruiser, seating either 5 or 7, makes an ideal family
hauler that's safe and very comfortable for long trips. Although base models
were powered by a healthy 350 cubic inch V-8, if you have a race-car or a boat
on a trailer the optional 455 cubic inch engine makes this a very capable tow
vehicle. Engines and transmissions are extremely durable, and all mechanical
parts are easily available. Those hard-to-find trim parts can easily be
located through various national Oldsmobile clubs. Several 455-powered Vista
Cruisers have been listed in Hemmings Motor News recently at asking prices
around $7,000 for those in excellent condition. Prices for good running wagons
needing work average about $4,000, which is about 1/10th the cost of an SUV.
8) Pontiac Grand Prix, 1969-72
Do you want big? Do you want muscle? Do you want luxury? Do you want it in
a trend-setting car of the late '60s? If you answered "yes" to any or all of
these questions, don't look any further than Pontiac's Grand Prix line of the
'69-72 era. In a flat-out design war with Ford/Lincoln, Pontiac's John
Delorean ensured that the Grand Prix would have the biggest hood ever bolted
to an intermediate. The thing is, it fit the style of the new 118-inch
wheelbase G-body like it had been designed with it right from the get-go. The
semi-fastback Grand Prix of '69-72 featured the trademark Pontiac split-grille
hung ahead of that huge hood. Uncluttered lines and a vinyl top lent a
distinguished appearance, while inside the GP ushered in the modern age with a
jet fighter-inspired console and a dashboard that made the driver feel he
wasn't so much driving a car as flying an F-4 Phantom. The standard engine was
the venerable Pontiac 400, with the J and SJ options offering hotter versions
of the 400, 428 and later the 455, while gear changes could be done either
through the TH-400 automatic or a four-speed manual. Pontiac's G-body set the
standard for luxury intermediates, and sister divisions like Chevrolet and
Oldsmobile soon began pumping out Monte Carlos and Cutlasses because of
Pontiac's innovative GP. Today, as offered in Hemmings Motor News, one can get
behind the wheel of one of these ground-bound cruise missiles for a relatively
light $2,500 to $8,500, depending upon condition, powertrain and options.
9) Porsche 912, 1966-69
Perhaps the greatest sports car ever built was Porsche's 911. The ultimate
driver's car, it offered exceptional handling, fantastic brakes and a high-
revving flat-six air-cooled engine that was as powerful as it was reliable,
all in a cozy fastback body. With the 911's price tag too steep for what some
enthusiasts can afford, Porsche's entry level 912 makes a perfect alternative
sports car for those willing to accept a reduction in power. With either a
90 or a 102 horsepower flat-four instead of Porsche's distinctive six, the
912 rewarded its drivers with slightly better handling than the faster 911 due
to the 912's lower weight and better balance. The 912's maintenance costs are
notably less than the 911 too, since parts for the four-cylinder engine are
cheaper and fewer. Everything else on the 912 is nearly identical to its more
powerful sibling which means just about every body panel, trim piece and
mechanical component is available, along with a huge aftermarket offering of
performance parts. Weak and rusted floor pans can be problem on northern
climate rust belt cars so watch out. Judging by the ads in Hemmings Motor
News, about $6,000 will get you a 912 in really good condition.
10) Studebaker Lark V-8 convertible, 1960-63
With European style and flair, Studebaker's distinguished Lark convertible
is a real standout verses the more common early-sixties convertibles from the
Big Three. Well appointed with fine details, the Lark convertible is a
pleasant little collectible that the whole family can enjoy. There were two
Lark convertible models produced: the 6-passenger Regal and the sportier
5-passenger Daytona. Although most had straight-sixes, the V-8 versions are
the most entertaining to drive. Four V-8s were optional: a 259 with 180 or 195
horsepower, and a 289 with 210 or 225 horsepower. Although handling isn't one
of the Lark's strong points, a decent set of radial tires will make it far
more reassuring to drive on twisty roads. The softly sprung suspension,
however, provides a very comfortable ride. Most parts can be sourced through
Hemmings Motor News and the Studebaker Drivers Club. Ads in recent issues of
Hemmings Motor News ranged from a Regal Lark convertible needing restoration
for $1,000 up to $11,000 for a well restored 4-speed Daytona version. On
average expect to pay between $4,500 to $6,500 for either model in
presentable, good running shape. Cheap, fast fun for five is what the Lark V-8
convertible is all about.
"When you decide to purchase an old car," states editor Lentinello,
"select the best example that is in solid, original condition. Beware of cars
for sale that have just been painted, since in many cases fresh paint is
hiding rust or recent accident damage. Also, give the underside a thorough
examination. Weak and rusted out floors will cost thousands to replace.
Condition of the mechanical components should always play a secondary role to
the condition of the body structure since it's easier and less expensive to
replace the brakes or shocks or even an engine than it is to replace a floor
or a fender."
Lentinello also points out that you should choose a car strictly because
you like it. Don't buy an old car with the intention of selling it at a huge
profit as, chances are great that you won't make any profit in the short term.
Now in its thirtieth year of publication, Special Interest Autos magazine
serves 34,000-plus subscribers every other month with in-depth driving reports
and car comparisons of yesterday's more popular and unusual automobiles, along
with features on collectors, personality profiles, and much more.
Since 1954, Hemmings Motor News has served the collector-car hobby as its
primary trading place and currently carries over 800 pages of hobby
advertising each month to a paid circulation of nearly 260,000 and readership
over 500,000. Loaded with tens of thousands of classified and display ads for
collector cars, trucks and motorcycles, parts and services, clubs and events,
and other hard-to-find resources for the hobbyist, Hemmings has become
indispensable to the collector car enthusiast.
Along with the monthly Hemmings Motor News and bi-monthly Special Interest
Autos, the company also publishes the Hemmings' Vintage Auto Almanac, the
world's most complete directory for the collector-car hobby and industry, as
well as the new bi-monthly Hemmings Rods & Performance for the street rod,
performance and motorsports audiences.
Hemmings also offers a complete line of ancillary products, which includes
an extensive line of die-cast models, calendars, books and clothing, all
available by phone or online.
