Best Christmas Decoration Ever!

This email was recently passed on to me from a friend and I couldn't help but wish I would have thought of that idea. This is too funny!

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Gift for Guys Who Love Classic Cars

I recently ran across a great gift idea for the guy or gal who loves classic cars, especially those cars left to rust away in fields, yards or junkyards. The gift is a 2010 Calendar with great photos of rusty cars. Inside the calendar, you can find images (such as the one shown above) of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars, Classic Trucks and potential Rat Rods that have been left to rust away. Each calendar month is represented by some of the rarest and most desirable American Cars from as early as the 1920s thru the glory years of the 50’s and 60’s to the muscle car era of the 70’s.

Not only is this a great gift idea (who couldn’t use a calendar) it is also very inexpensive at only $8.95 plus they will even ship it to you for FREE! This is sure to be a gift that classic car & truck fans will appreciated and treasure throughout the 2010 year and beyond. If you are interested in ordering one, you can visit OldRide.com, a classic car website, and get yours today.

COLOR YOUR CLASSIC™ CONTEST

Another contest for all of you classic car enthusiasts. Color your Classic™ is a contest to determine the finest, custom finished vehicle.

To celebrate the new Collector Color Series color offerings, Planet Color (Sherwin Williams) and Barrett-Jackson are encouraging restorers to paint their vehicles using the new palette and enter them in the new Color Your Classic™ competition. Any vehicle – cars, trucks, motorcycles, watercraft, etc. - finished with colors from the new Planet Color Barrett-Jackson Collector Color Series are eligible to enter.

The contest began on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009 and will expire on April 1, 2010

The winner will receive 2 all travel expense paid VIP trips to Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction in Scottsdale, AZ, January 2011 – includes VIP tickets, airfare, deluxe hotel accommodations and rental car to the auction - Approximate retail value of $3,000!

Visit Planet Color for more information on how to enter the contest.

Vote for Your Favorite Car Throughout the Decades

1910s Decade Winner for 2008 - A 1918 Dodge Roadster
photo courtesy of Texaco Car of the Decades Website

Texaco is providing online viewers with a online auto show making it easy for car enthusiasts to get the thrills and excitement of an auto show in the comfort of their own home. The virtual auto show celebrates people who love their cars in a nationwide car show contest. You can view the cars online and place your votes at TexacoCaroftheDecades.com. Votes will determine the winning cars from 11 decades from 1903-2000. Voting will take place through October 12, 2009 and once announced will go through a panel of judges to determine a Grand Prize winner.

Whether they are muscle cars, sports cars, resto-mods or hot rods, anyone can enter their vehicle for judging and will be eligible to win some great prizes including the Grand Prize - A trip for two to Skip Barber Two Day Driving School, A custom 20 x 30 color rendering of the winner's car by automotive artist Dwayne Vance, $1,000 worth of Texaco with Techron® Gift Cards, and a case of Havoline® with Deposit ShieldTM Motor Oil. Even if you don't win the grand prize, 10 first prize winners will receive a custom Dwayne Vance sketch of the winner's car, $250 worth of Texaco with Techron® Gift Cards, and a case of Havoline® with Deposit ShieldTM Motor Oil.

Some cars already posted on the website include a 1961 Pontiac Catalina, a 1949 Chevrolet 3100 Panel Delivery and a 1987 Buick GNX - Oh yeah, and I forgot to mention, you can even enter your own car. Hurry, you only have until September 14, 2009. For more details you can visit their website, or follow along on Twitter. Don't delay, start voting today!

Lynden, Washington "Razz & Shine" Car Show

The 3rd Annual Razz & Shine Classic Car Cruise-in was an awesome FREE event held in the town of Lynden, WA. The show captured a great selection of classic automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles from Corvettes to Camaro's and everything in between. Cars of all shapes and sizes lined the shaded streets.



Like I mentioned, the event was free for participants and spectators, and they even had a free raffle at the end of the show with some great prizes to give away. There were at least 160+ cars and trucks plus around 30 motorcycles.



There was a lot to do that day because the Razz & Shine takes place during Lynden’s annual Raspberry Festival. Other events throughout the day included an “all-you-can-eat” raspberry pancake breakfast, a street market & sidewalk sale, petting zoos & wagon rides at a local Berry Farm, wine tasting tours, and live jazz music. There was also a huge basketball tournament taking place on the streets. Definitely a good time for my family and I.

Find your Dream Classic Car with OldRide.com

Classic car classifieds such as those found on OldRide.com can help you find the car of your dreams. Many enthusiasts enjoy purchasing classic vehicles, either those that need restoring or that have already been restored. There are a lot of places you can go to find a classic car.

Some of the places you can begin searching is the classifieds in the local newspaper. Other local choices are classic car dealers in your area or even estate or car auctions. If you can't find that certain car that you are searching for, you can look online at websites such as Craigslist and eBay and you can expand your search nationally.

Speaking of a national search for classic cars, you might want to try OldRide.com when shopping for old cars for sale. OldRide.com is one of the biggest collector car classified sites on the Internet. You can find almost every classic car or truck for sale imaginable offered by private sellers or classic car dealers.

While it might take some searching, classic cars and trucks for sale can be found both online and off. If you don't know a lot about classic cars, it may be helpful to research the subject or talk to someone who is knowledgeable – and take them along with you if you are going to purchase a classic car or truck. You want to make sure you are getting the best car, and deal, possible.

Dodge Challenger For Sale

The Dodge Challenger's are very collectible and it has become increasingly difficult to find a Challenger for sale at a good price. These cars aren't cheap anymore from their original price of $2700 to $4100. Here is some information about the 1970 Challenger to get you started.

The 1970 Challenger cam in 2 different body styles – a 2-door hardtop and convertible. The Dodge Challenger project was started in late 1965 as a vehicle to compete with the Ford Mustang's popularity. It wasn't until late in the year 1969 that Dodge introduced the E bodies with a choice of nine popular engines including the Hemi. Various packages could be ordered with the new Challengers including R/T, SE and T/A packages which consisted of different engine and powertrain features, interior elements and exterior elements.

The Challenger model-lineup is based on the Plymouth's Barracuda Platform but its wheelbase was extended an additional 2 inches. Both hardtop and convertibles were offered to the consumer.

The R/T was the hig performance version of the Challenger equipped with a 383-cid four-barrel V8 engine.

The T/A was a special version of the Challenger and included the 340-cid “Six Pack” V8 engine with a 4-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. Just over 1,000 Challenger T/A's were built.

Here is some help if you too are looking for a Dodge Challenger for Sale or more information about the Dodge Challenger in general.

HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY!

Do you mean a classic or collectible?

Classic and Collectible cars are often sought after and revered by many enthusiasts. What is it that classifies a vehicle as a classic and makes one vehicle more valuable than another? While variations on the definition of a classic car differs from one person to the next, a Classic is generally 20-25 years. Collectible depends on how many were made, it's options list, uniqueness, history of that model, etc. Some vehicles are instant collectibles, even when they are on the showroom floor. Classic does not always equal valuable. However, collectible almost always ads some sort of value.

According to the Classic Car Club of America, a true classic is any vehicle built between 1925 and 1948. To be considered classic, a car must be also considered “fine” or “distinctive.” What sets models from these years apart, in the minds of club members is the fact they were constructed with extreme workmanship and high engineering standards that aren’t always evidenced on today’s production lines. While other clubs recognize cars outside of the tight year span of the Classic Car Club of America as classics, the earliest models are those that make the grade with the CCCA. Examples of approved classics by this organization include Alfa Romeos, du Ponts, Cadillacs, Buicks and Rolls-Royces.

However, the Antique Automobile Club announced the inclusion of vehicles 25 years old and older into the classifications. Nevertheless, it is up to the viewer's discretion. Some states even classify a classic car as 15 years or older.

Retro Car Radio for your Classic Car

If you are in the process of restoring your classic car and aren't sure of what to install for a radio, there are a variety of options that you can choose from. However, if you want that classic look combined with modern technology you might want to consider the RestroSound Model One car radio. With an auxiliary port and USB input, it allows you to play your MP3 or WMA files by using a Flash or thumb drive. And of course there is still the standard AM/FM radio. There are many varieties to choose from and is compatible with most makes and models from the Corvette to the Falcom to the VW Beetle plus more. Cost of radio is around $300.00.

Tips for Avoiding Fraud when Purchasing on Classic Car Online

It is unfortunate that there are people out there who want to take advantage of the honest hard working folks. There are many online classic car ads for sale that scammers post in an attempt to steal a deposit from and innocent buyer. If you are in the market for a classic car and are wishing to purchase a vehicle online, here are some pointers on what to watch out for.

The too good to be true deal – If a seller is selling a vehicle for a very low price, like say a 1967 Shelby Mustang GT350 in Mint Condition for $5000.00 it is most likely a scam and the seller is trying to swindle your money from you in exchange of no vehicle.

No contact information – Mostly all scammers prefer to communicate with buyers through email only and will often provide little to no contact information. Make sure that you are able to speak with the seller over the phone or in person. Be cautious of ads with the wrong phone number or no phone number at all. If the seller won’t talk to you over the phone than you should not progress any further with a transaction.

The seller suddenly moved out of the country – Some scammers will often use the excuse that they are moving overseas and need to sell their vehicle because they cannot take it with them…that is why they are selling it so cheap.

Use of a phony escrow or eBay escrow company – Scammers can easily create websites that look legitimate but are really just a front to try and receive a deposit from you. Only use an escrow company that you know and trust. eBay does not have any type of escrow company nor do they handle any sort of payments. This is a sure sign that this person is a scammer.

Whenever you engage in any transaction, make sure that you use a payment method that can be easily traced and will be able to be refunded if you never receive the item. Be safe and cautious and happy shopping.

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Price Compare before you buy a Classic Car

Image via WikipediaIf you are a classic car enthusiast and are interested in purchasing a classic car, then some online price guides might become your best friend. Before you hit the market, you should arm yourself with the knowledge of what car prices are. It can be the difference between getting the car of your dreams or be taken for a ride (and I’m not talking about a joy ride either).

While the Kelly Blue Book has become a household name, few might not know that there are other resources that you can use for a reference in determining the value of a classic car or truck. Nada Guides, Manheim Gold and Collector Car Market all offer value guides of classic cars with suggested retail value for vehicles in varying conditions from poor to excellent.

But as we all know, one man’s perception of a cherry can be another’s sour grape. It can be difficult to determine what a fair price is for a particular make and model of a classic car. If you are truly concerned, it might be wise to hire an appraiser or inspection service to evaluate the vehicle before you make your purchase. Just make sure before you buy, you have all of your ducks in a row and you are getting a fair an accurate price.

HOW TO JOIN A CLASSIC CAR CLUB

Image via WikipediaAre you a classic car enthusiast? Do you love a particular type of car so much that you can’t wait to show it off and be a part of a group with similar interests? Well perhaps joining a car club is the option for you. Car clubs have been around for years and are very popular among classic car enthusiasts. By joining a club, not only will you be up-to-date on all the latest news, you can enter your car in car shows, join in on discussions, or just hang out with a lot of knowledgeable people. Even if you don’t have your dream car yet, it’s okay. Most clubs do not require ownership of a vehicle in order to join.

Whether you have a Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger, Rat Rod or work in progress there is a club out there waiting for you. You can find anything from classic, muscle and hot rod clubs to more generalized clubs that it doesn’t matter what type of vehicle you own. Each classic car club carries its own set of guidelines and requirements for joining, so join one that you feel comfortable with – you will be sure to find on that is perfect for you. A great way to start searching for the right club for you is at OldRide.com. They have a wide variety of classic car clubs listed throughout the 50 states and Canada too.

Oppose Federal “Cash for Clunkers” Program

Image via WikipediaOppose Federal “Cash for Clunkers” Program

Washington lawmakers are drafting a large economic stimulus package to help create jobs and rebuild infrastructure. They want to include a nationwide scrappage program which would give U.S. tax dollars to consumers who turn-in older cars to have them crushed, as a misguided attempt to spur new car sales. The lawmakers need to scrap this idea.

The stimulus package is being drafted right now. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) wants to introduce the bill on January 6 and have it approved by Congress by January 20, so that President Obama can sign it into law after he is inaugurated.

Contact House Speaker Nancy Pelosi IMMEDIATELY To Oppose Cash for Clunkers!
Call: 202/225-0100
Click here to send an electronic message: http://speaker.house.gov/contact/
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Talking Points
Oppose the Use of U.S. Taxpayer Dollars for Cash for Clunkers

• I am [calling/writing] to urge lawmakers not to include a “Cash for Clunkers” provision in the economic stimulus bill. Owners who turn in vehicles for crushing would receive a "minimal" payment to purchase a new car. This is a misguided attempt to spur car sales and claim that the country’s air quality or fleet fuel mileage is being improved.

• I work for [company name] located in [city and state]. My company is part of the specialty automotive industry, an industry which enables consumers to enhance their vehicle’s appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and safety. “Cash for Clunkers” programs deny our small businesses the availability of older cars necessary to develop and market their products and services. The programs will hurt my company and our customers.

• “Cash for Clunkers” programs threaten enthusiasts nationwide with the loss of valuable parts and parts-cars for repair, restoration, and customization projects. The programs also risk destroying classic, historic and special-interest vehicles, our American heritage.

• Cars turned in for scrappage often barely run, or are rarely-driven second or third vehicles that have a minimal impact on overall fuel economy or emissions.

• “Cash for Clunkers” programs will reduce the availability of affordable transportation and repair parts used by low-income drivers. It will also compete with the Salvation Army, the Purple Heart and other charities that rely on vehicle donations to raise money.

• “Cash for Clunkers” ignores better policy options. If Congress wants to act, support for repair and upgrade is a better choice and a win-win for consumers, dealers, manufacturers and repair shops. Significant emissions and fuel economy improvements can be achieved in older vehicles through relatively simple and inexpensive means: repaired/replaced exhaust systems, tune-ups, etc.

• We hope we can count on you to reject “Cash for Clunkers.” Thank you for your consideration on this very important matter.

Please send a quick note and/or a copy of your message to Speaker Pelosi to:
E-mail: briand@sema.org
Fax: 202/783-6024

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