Cars and more cars

[Tucky]

Now that I'm a sports car owner:-) I've been scouting around the web a bit and came across this site- Bring a Trailer (http://bringatrailer.com/).

Site serves to haunt the web looking for interesting cars, like this sweet old Willys Jeep wagon2 miles up the road from me-
(http://bringatrailer.com/2014/12/16/195 ... ngs-daily/)

They also have an interesting auction format- cheap to list and buyer pays the premium to the site. Auction ends 3 minutes after the previous bid after a cutoff. This prevents eBay like sniping. The auctions also generate comments which are typically knowledgeable interspersed with crap (sound familiar).

Isn't this a nice car . . . . . . Auction ends this afternoon.

1966-Jaguar-XKE-940x636.jpg

[kimbottles]

Bring a Trailer is the first email I read every morning.

Some really tempting stuff shows up. Like this morning!!

http://bringatrailer.com/2014/12/16/gro ... 7-tribute/

I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car
I don't need a collector car

[SloopJonB]

1966-Jaguar-XKE-940x636.jpg

The first car I ever bought was one of those - a Series 1, 4.2 - the short-lived (18 months) primo version of the E. It had all the good stuff, the early body, the ZF all synchro box, the 4.2 engine, triple SU's, toggle switch dash......

A cruel mistress - it bankrupted me in less than two years and I would still go crawling back.

[Tucky]

I came across it because someone sold a Caterham at auction there and linked to the Caterham group on the web. Site is relatively new? It seems like a good place to sell my BMW as I'm hoping for some kind of premium for its condition. I'll be selling the BMW at the bottom of the price arc I know- I really should put it in a barn for 10 years. A fifteen year old car with 15,000 miles in showroom condition goes from $40,000 to $15,000. I suspect it has nowhere to go but up, as they say.

I tried to convince my father in 63 that an XKE was a better car than a Stingray but failed, just as I failed at getting him to let me assemble a Lotus 7 two years later. One of my Powerball purchases is the XKE tribute car Top Gear featured-

http://www.eaglegb.com/pages/eagle-spee ... JHSgyhhqgE

EagleSmall.jpg

[cap10ed]

I am also a BaT addict. Member since it started. Like Scants there are some knowledgable gear heads on BaT that expose the BS when they see it. Some truely obscure cars go rolling through that BaT page. I tallied our Scant crowd on their opinion on the Porsche Cayman. A mid-engined Porsche. The over all call was that it was long over due and is a balanced car right out of the box. It's to bad it has an older brother that doesn't like to share the lime light. That being said I sold the 74 GTV to pick up a 07 Cayman. BaT crowd were helpful in establishing a realistic price for the Alfa and some good info on what version of the Cayman would suit my style of driving. All good. Sporty cars and sailors have a great realationship. If you can fix a sports car, you can fix a sailboat.

[JoeP]

I have loved all sorts of sports cars since my dad arrived home one day with a used 1954 Corvette. I visit Bring a Trailer regularly. I own an FR-S which as far as I am concerned is the best bang for the buck sports car around. Still, there are some funky cars and trucks I would love to own, like a Jeep Forward Control:

fc2.jpg

FC.png

[cap10ed]

Nice rig Joe. I can see that as the funky ride for all the boat gear .

[Cherie320]

Tucky - the E-type is one of my favorite automotive lust targets. Trying to get adopted by a friend who has a V-12

Ed - sorry to hear the Alfa is gone, but your replacement is top drawer.

Joe - not only do I like your daily driver, that Jeep is cool. As a kid I got to ride in the Neighbor's from time to time.

Kim - a tractor and no collector car......where are your priorities.....oh, yes, you talked to Bob - I understand!

Great web site - thanks for sharing. Pat

[kimbottles]

Tucky - the E-type is one of my favorite automotive lust targets. Trying to get adopted by a friend who has a V-12

Ed - sorry to hear the Alfa is gone, but your replacement is top drawer.

Joe - not only do I like your daily driver, that Jeep is cool. As a kid I got to ride in the Neighbor's from time to time.

Kim - a tractor and no collector car......where are your priorities.....oh, yes, you talked to Bob - I understand!

Great web site - thanks for sharing. Pat

Tractor? What tractor?

(I do have quite a few Bicycles though.)

[Jamie]

It comes as no surprise that Scantlinger's have good taste in cars.

I had a tough remit here in Taiwan when it came to procuring a decent car. Car prices here are 50-100% more expensive than the US and many interesting models are not imported. Typically cars here have the smallest engine available with the most electronic options. Registering cars not imported through normal channels is frowned upon and registration is made difficult. My friends at Caterham are pulling their hair out trying to get their cars road legal. In addition, all non-stock modifications are technically illegal and engine and body number are recorded at time of import.

So what to do? What I do have is: a) access to some very skilled car tuners (t00ners), b) cheap fabrication c) access lots of OEM suppliers for the overseas t00ning market. I wanted a car that could go fast but still be comfortable, retain all OEM functionality and be able to carry all of my toys and family. Basically make the car what it should have been if the bean counters hadn't gotten a hold of it first. Or a poor man's C63 estate, if it were actually imported here. Oh, and it has to be a daily driver.

So...what to do?
1) Buy a bog standard Subaru Legacy wagon
2) Replace exhaust system with high flow cats and cans, but ensure no louder at idle than stock and still able to pass emissions
3) Upgrade the waffly suspension with improved bushing and stiffer sway bars to improve balance and a nice set of Konis.
4) Replace stock intercooler to increase cooling
5)Add oil cooler and transmission cooler.
6) Replace stock brakes with low profile big brake kit
7) Replace stock turbo with hybrid TD05-18gtx
8) Add 50/50 water methanol injection
9) Add broad band W20 sensor
10) Bigger fuel pump
11) Lighter rims
12) Better rubber in the form of RE-11S
13) Re-flash the ROM with a new t00n. We're on version 128 of the ROM as we added parts, scaled the MAF, adjusted compensation tables and gained better insight into how things like requested torque impacted line shift pressure. Now the only limitation is the 5EAT transmissions ability to handle the torque.

We have 350 ft/lb of torque from 2800rpm - almost to redline and 335hp at the wheels which means about 420hp at the crank. I think stock was 265hp at the crank and 214 ft/lb. We know this is real power as: a) the car with two people and a roof rack went from 100km/hr to 200km/hr in about 11sec and it was still accelerating at 250km/hr.



Doesn't look like much, but unless you've sent your 335CSI or equivalent to the t00ners, you're going to lose badly.


But, 20k km later we want...moar - like 450hp at the wheel. To get more I will need to:
1) put in a front mounted intercooler and ditch the top mount
2) bigger turbo like an EFR 7163
3) new fuel injectors, current pump should be OK
4) probably need to ditch the stock springs and replace some more bushings so we don't end up in a ditch each time we launch
5) Forged engine internals and head studs
6) replace the slush-box with a stronger 6MT - this will require some serious fabbing and a new console
7) Stock CPU is probably too slow, need to updgrade to a Syvecs and go speed/density fueling. The Syvecs basically can be programmed to do anything: flat-foot shifting, anti-lag, valet mode....etc...so that should be fun.

The downside is that the car will be a real science project.

[Olaf Hart]

So you are saying the Liberty Turbo Spec B with a six speed stick shift is a good deal, right?

[Jamie]

So you are saying the Liberty Turbo Spec B with a six speed stick shift is a good deal, right?

Absolutely that's a sweet ride. I didn't know they had those in Oz. Rare as rocking horse poo. That's what I wish I started with. That's a real 6MT with helical front diff,(not the weak cable shift 5spd with gears cut to 6spd) . The only thing missing is maybe the DCCD.

[kimbottles]

Joe!! Pay attention!! Look what was on Bring a Trailer this morning!

http://bringatrailer.com/listing/1963-2/

Get into the bidding!

[kimbottles]

It comes as no surprise that Scantlinger's have good taste in cars.

I had a tough remit here in Taiwan when it came to procuring a decent car. Car prices here are 50-100% more expensive than the US and many interesting models are not imported. Typically cars here have the smallest engine available with the most electronic options. Registering cars not imported through normal channels is frowned upon and registration is made difficult. My friends at Caterham are pulling their hair out trying to get their cars road legal. In addition, all non-stock modifications are technically illegal and engine and body number are recorded at time of import.

So what to do? What I do have is: a) access to some very skilled car tuners (t00ners), b) cheap fabrication c) access lots of OEM suppliers for the overseas t00ning market. I wanted a car that could go fast but still be comfortable, retain all OEM functionality and be able to carry all of my toys and family. Basically make the car what it should have been if the bean counters hadn't gotten a hold of it first. Or a poor man's C63 estate, if it were actually imported here. Oh, and it has to be a daily driver.

So...what to do?
1) Buy a bog standard Subaru Legacy wagon
2) Replace exhaust system with high flow cats and cans, but ensure no louder at idle than stock and still able to pass emissions
3) Upgrade the waffly suspension with improved bushing and stiffer sway bars to improve balance and a nice set of Konis.
4) Replace stock intercooler to increase cooling
5)Add oil cooler and transmission cooler.
6) Replace stock brakes with low profile big brake kit
7) Replace stock turbo with hybrid TD05-18gtx
8) Add 50/50 water methanol injection
9) Add broad band W20 sensor
10) Bigger fuel pump
11) Lighter rims
12) Better rubber in the form of RE-11S
13) Re-flash the ROM with a new t00n. We're on version 128 of the ROM as we added parts, scaled the MAF, adjusted compensation tables and gained better insight into how things like requested torque impacted line shift pressure. Now the only limitation is the 5EAT transmissions ability to handle the torque.

We have 350 ft/lb of torque from 2800rpm - almost to redline and 335hp at the wheels which means about 420hp at the crank. I think stock was 265hp at the crank and 214 ft/lb. We know this is real power as: a) the car with two people and a roof rack went from 100km/hr to 200km/hr in about 11sec and it was still accelerating at 250km/hr.



Doesn't look like much, but unless you've sent your 335CSI or equivalent to the t00ners, you're going to lose badly.


But, 20k km later we want...moar - like 450hp at the wheel. To get more I will need to:
1) put in a front mounted intercooler and ditch the top mount
2) bigger turbo like an EFR 7163
3) new fuel injectors, current pump should be OK
4) probably need to ditch the stock springs and replace some more bushings so we don't end up in a ditch each time we launch
5) Forged engine internals and head studs
6) replace the slush-box with a stronger 6MT - this will require some serious fabbing and a new console
7) Stock CPU is probably too slow, need to updgrade to a Syvecs and go speed/density fueling. The Syvecs basically can be programmed to do anything: flat-foot shifting, anti-lag, valet mode....etc...so that should be fun.

The downside is that the car will be a real science project.

Thank God I don't live near Jamie, he would be a VERY BAD influence on me.

(But of course I would want to do it all with a diesel, Audi R10 TDI anyone.)

[Jamie]

ABT does some neat stuff with VW and Audi turbo diesels....just sayin...

[Soñadora]

I love cars.

This is Ruby. She currently is suffering from an incontinence problem but I hope to have that resolved before summer.

and BAT is a very dangerous site

[JoeP]

Joe!! Pay attention!! Look what was on Bring a Trailer this morning!

http://bringatrailer.com/listing/1963-2/

Get into the bidding!

Yikes! Speak of the devil! I need to build a bigger garage if I want to start collecting. No room dammit.

[JoeP]

Ruby nice.

[BeauV]

I got a ride in an Audi A8 with some massive diesel turbo in it - terrifying!!!! The torque was insane and I'm amazed the auto-trans could deal with it. All four wheels, blue smoke until you let off the noise peddle. Heaps of fun and used entirely to terrorize hopped up sedans on the Autobahn. Completely silent at 180 kph and able to break all four tires looks when it downshifted to take off. NNOOOOOO idea how fast it got to 250 kph, but it wasn't long. The car was CLEARLY faster than my 996 Turbo with the X51 motor option. A LOT faster.

Diesels are just fine these days. I've been pondering selecting the V6 TDI for the next Cayenne.

[Tucky]

Did someone say Porsche and Tractor in the same sentence . . . . .

http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/4808213358.html

And in Seattle no less. Just the thing for you Kim, just the thing for moving those anchors around.

Porsche.jpg

[Soñadora]

I LOVE THOSE!

[Cherie320]

Rick - Ruby is very nice. A bit of care and feeding will put her back on track in no time. Always liked the water cooled P-cars. Enjoy! Pat

[Olaf Hart]

So you are saying the Liberty Turbo Spec B with a six speed stick shift is a good deal, right?

Absolutely that's a sweet ride. I didn't know they had those in Oz. Rare as rocking horse poo. That's what I wish I started with. That's a real 6MT with helical front diff,(not the weak cable shift 5spd with gears cut to 6spd) . The only thing missing is maybe the DCCD.

There are a few around in Oz.
My son has one in Denver.
Good car for a run up Pikes Peak.

[John B]

I only sold my 2 plus 2 series 1 E type about 3 months ago after 7 years, I had a good run from it but it was unrestored and I wasn't prepared to go through the whole thing. A fun drive though , I enjoyed it. My everyday car is a dead ringer for Jamie's, Legacy GT B spec premium is what they call it here, but its not heated up.

and the boat truck I just sold..



.

.

[Soñadora]

Rick - Ruby is very nice. A bit of care and feeding will put her back on track in no time. Always liked the water cooled P-cars. Enjoy! Pat

Thanks Pat. She turned 100k 2 years ago. The car is a testement to the durability of German Engineering. It runs like a top, even considering my unintentional neglect. And I would have to say Porsche has done better than most makers at making their cars timeless. The 951 (944 Turbo) still looks fresh today. And all 911s harken back to the first 901 Porsche built (changed to 911 thanks to the whiney French). Their heritage is unmistakable.

[SloopJonB]

Re: the timelessness of Porsche's - back in the 70's when the 928 was new a friend was complaining about its looks etc. I told him to remember what I was going to tell him - at the turn of the century it would not look old.

I was right - even another 15 years on it still doesn't look old.

[LarryHoward]

Every time Jaime runs through his specs, I think about car shopping.

I'd live to find a clean, unmodified Spec B for less than an arm and a leg. My son says I'm too old for an STI and much as I'd like another Porsche, with a long gravel drive and no garage at present, it would be a bad thing to do. Dr. Ferry wouldn't forgive me. Spec B would look nice and innocent and I'm sure Jaime would consult on any update.

I did tell Chris that I'd put down a pre sale deposit on a Civic Type R if Honda decide to make one to US Spec. Not sure how to put 300 HP on the ground in a FWD car nor how to cure the understeer but it would be a fun ride.

Words you don't want to see in a text after your son gets invited to drive the Naval Academy's Formula SAE for the first time.

"I forgot to tell you about catching the car on fire"

Turns out an oil plug came out and leaked onto the exhaust manifold.

[Jamie]

Larry & John B: Are those cars slushies or manual?

If manual, I might want to track down the ROM. If slushie, maybe someone over there has figured out how to it to handle more power. The US never got an automatic transmission, so no one has developed a valve-kit or cracked the TCU. Maybe someone has an answer in OZ/NZ.

Cheers,
Jamie

[LarryHoward]

Larry & John B: Are those cars slushies or manual?

If manual, I might want to track down the ROM. If slushie, maybe someone over there has figured out how to it to handle more power. The US never got an automatic transmission, so no one has developed a valve-kit or cracked the TCU. Maybe someone has an answer in OZ/NZ.

Cheers,
Jamie

US Spec B's are all 6 speeds with a dial a fun adjustable engine map switch and torsen LSD. All sedans with a low wing spoiler.

[JoeP]

With all the new electronic traction and stability control systems these days putting 300+ hp to the front wheels shouldn't be too hard imo, assuming the drivetrain can take it. A friend drove one of the new Fiesta STs recently and said there was no torque steer on hard acceleration and minimal understeer in the corners. Although not anywhere near 300hp the technology is there.

Now if my wife would only let me upgrade the suspension on her Forester...