Dodge is bringing back the Dart? Why?!

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That was my first reaction when I saw the announcement declaring the return of the Dodge Dart. Researching further I was relieved and a little intrigued to learn that it is in name only.

Depending on your memories the Dart could be anything from dodgy old family cruiser to muscle car. It really was capable of being those two extremes and anything in between. The Dart was sold on US shores from 1970-1976 and the name continued in Mexican produced Chryslers until 1989.

After a 24 year hiatus the new Dodge Dart will be born in a completely new world for Chrysler. For starters Fiat now owns 53.3% of Chrysler and the Dart will be the first Chrysler with Fiat underpinnings. The new Dart will be based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, though a little larger in every dimension to make it palatable to Americans who like their cargo space. The Giulietta is a handsome car and is doing well in Europe. More than looks it gives me hope that Chrysler is ready to venture into the world of European allure instead of weird and out there – the PT cruiser and the Dodge Intrepid are dancing in my head with flashing lights as I type this.

 This is Chrysler’s first attempt at the sub-compact market in a very long time. Some might remember the Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizons of the mid to late 80’s. There are some like me, whose families actually owned one, who choose to forget them. Then there was the Neon, and finally the Caliber.

The Dart will replace the Caliber which never quite caught the spark Chrysler had hoped for.  I never disliked it actually. I just could never figure out what Chrysler was trying to do with the car. Was it a compact? Kinda. Was it a baby SUV? Well, maybe, it was a little tall. Did it attract younger buyers? If loud counts for attracting the young then yes, it was youthful.

There is no denying that Fiat’s first foray back onto US roads with the 500 has been a success so far. It’s a terrific car and a wonderful nod to the original. So I am actually very excited to see what this Alfa based, Fiat underpinned, and Chrysler final touched little compact this car will be. With the promise of 40mpg on the highway it will be competing in a niche where most of the major players have already entered with an existing compact or the introduction of a diesel alternative.

Chrysler has a loyal ownership base and I think existing buyers will be happy to have this as a fuel sipping versus slurping alternative to a Chrysler product they may have purchased in the past. Chrysler hopes that it will attract first time new car buyers and turn them into a returning customer base in the future.

If I had learned that Chrysler was resurrecting the Omni/Horizon or freshening the Caliber I probably would not even have bothered to write this. Given the details we have so far I think the new Dart may turn a few heads and certainly deserves a spot on the consideration list for someone looking in that segment.  I will write more as Chrysler gets closer to production.

Do we have a quintesential TV car the way the 80′s shows did?

What will be the quintesential 2000′s car? Well – something representative of the first 11 years at least….

I was watching an episode of the A-Team randomly while finishing some work this evening and thought to myself, “What car is going to stand out as an early 2000′s icon? In the 80′s the A-Team had their van, Faceman had his Corvette, The Fall Guy had his amazing truck, Magnum had the Ferrari, and Michael Knight had KITT. Least I forget that Mark McMormick had the Coyote-X. I could go on and on but I probably lost a slew of cool points just on my small list alone.

Growing up in the 90′s there was a brief hope that there would be a famous car of our times when they introduced the show “Viper” but that was short lived. The new Knight Rider sparked new hope when it debuted 17 years after the Viper show first aired. It had a lackluster season and was banished as well. So what will “our decade’s car be?” I’d love to hear your thoughts. I have a few of my own but for now they are on my “lame” list so I’ll be shy to share.

Let us know by emailing us or on Facebook or Twitter!

The Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance

75 degrees, a perfect sunny day, and the crashing surf of the Atlantic Ocean a mere 5 miles away.What could be better you ask? CARS! And the most incredible collection of them assembled at the show field at Honey Horn located on Hilton Head Island.  I started writing about the event and found that there is just too much to say in one article, so I have decided to feature some of the vehicles and what I learned about them during the next few weeks. Stay tuned!

Spring time in Georgia

Spring time in Georgia – 70 degree weather weekends, March madness, more sunlight in a day, and POLLEN! I have received a few emails this past month from readers asking for tips to keep the green stuff at bay and cars clean.

To my readers who know me personally I know that there may be a conspiracy theory that I am trying to get everyone to wash and polish their cars…and…they’re correct! Adding a coat of polish to your vehicle’s painted surfaces will make it easier for the pollen to wash off. Here are some of the other tips I have for you in order to keep your vehicle from being more of an allergen trap than your daily chariot.

 

1)      When cleaning your vehicle pay special attention to the vinyl trim around the windows. Wash the sections with soap and water and lower the windows and clean as much of the tracks as possible. Pollen and other particles often get lodged here whenever we lower our windows at drive-thrus or on a nice day and do not help those of us with allergies. Open your sunroof/moonroof and clean the surrounds with a damp cloth being careful not to press to firmly on the closing mechanism on most roofs. Wipe the interior glass of as well.

2)      Apply Rain-X or similar chemical to cleaned glass surfaces. It does a wonderful job keeping the surface clean and the compound that keeps water beading when it rains also acts as a repellant to the sticky pollen. When cleaning the windshield be sure to clean the windshield wipers and replace blades if necessary as well as cleaning the washer nozzles and topping off the washer fluid.

3)      Take a lint free cloth and squeeze some fresh lemon juice on to the cloth. Wash the cloth in warm to medium hot water and wipe down vents and consoles. You can follow up with a vinyl/leather protectant. I recommend Meguires or Mothers’ “non-shiny” cleaners as they do not attract dust.

4)      Remove all mats from the vehicle and take the now damp cloth and wipe down the upholstery. For cloth seats make sure to use a wet/dry vac to remove excess fluid. For leather interiors use a leather cleaner and conditioner as part of basic leather monthly maintenance – more on that in another article.

5)      Once the seats have been cleaned wipe under seats, door jams, and kick plates.

6)      If your vehicle has a cabin air filter and you cannot remember the last time you replaced it this is the perfect time to do so. In many vehicles they are located behind the glove box and asking a team member at your local parts store may save you $70 or more in the markups dealers charge to install.

7)      Once you have taken the time and energy to deep clean your vehicle keep the windows closed despite the gorgeous weather for the next few weeks.

Beyond keeping your vehicle clean these steps will hopefully alleviate some of your allergy symptoms. It is virtually impossible to keep dust and pollen from entering but following this initial deep clean a weekly wipe down with a damp warm lint free cloth will keep you in great shape through the green stuff!

Drive safely and look for us on Facebook and Twitter

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1989 Jaguar XJS 63K miles-an absolute show stopper!

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We have the unique privilege of presenting this exquisite 1989 Jaguar XJS 12 cylinder convertible on behalf of Mr. Daniel of Charleston, SC. With a little over 63K miles since new from Hennessy Cadillac and Jaguar here in Atlanta this XJ is the epitome of perfect looks matched to a stellar drive train which has received excellent maintenance and care since new.
Details:
• Tungsten Metallic paint exterior
• Parchment leather interior with real wood dark maple accents featuring heated seats
• 5.3 liter V12 motor capable of 295hp
• Smooth shifting 3-speed automatic transmission
• 63K pampered miles since new!!
• Manufactured at Jaguar’s Browns Lane facility in England
• Chrome Spoke wheels in perfect condition wrapped in a matching set of nearly new Dunlop radial tires – over 90% tread remaining and perfect alignment and balancing as good as these wire wheels get!
• Extensive cosmetic restoration valued at over $5.7K where the top was replaced, pieces of the maple trim were restored and the leather seating was freshened making the interior appear brand new.

Exterior:
The paint has a lustrous deep shine and although the paint has a few scratches consistent with age the overall showing is above average for its age. There are no dings or gashes to the paint. Exterior has just had a three stage hand buff consisting of Meguire’s paint cleaner, #8 show car glaze topped with a single coat of Zymol wax. The wire wheels and exterior chrome show no sign of rusting, hazing or pitting of any kind. All the glass and plastic lenses are clean and original still highlighting “Made in England” stamps. The black top is like new and the rear glass is absolutely clear, not hazed like older models. The tonneau cover is in like new condition. Truly a joy to look at sitting still or flying down the road.

Interior:
The interior looks like you have stepped back in time into April of 1989 when this XJS sat on the showroom floor. The seats appear untouched and have that true leather smell reserved for the truly luxurious near super cars. The dark maple trim gleams and is free of any solvents or chemicals that attract dust and make natural wood trim often appear plastic like. The chrome pieces in the interior cabin shine like new.
The factory sound system still sounds terrific and comes with Jaguar’s “test cassette” in the glove box along with all of the original owners manuals. The multi function in dash computer still accurately depicts fuel economy, distance since reset and time and service related information. All of the instruments function as new including the cruise, power windows, mirrors, and convertible top mechanism. There is a rear storage area that is behind the seats and lockable and deep enough for keeping valuables out of sight. The trunk compartment can easily accommodate a golf bag and an overnighter for a trip to Hilton Head or where the golf and sun are great.

Drive train, brakes, and suspension:
The motor is in superb condition with no sign of oil leak or burn off. This Jag starts with zero hesitation and idles perfectly. The transmission shifts smoothly into gear and the shifts between power bands are barely noticeable. This is a powerful car but a true tourer. The speed you desire comes effortlessly but the beauty of this Jaguar is how smooth and tight the vehicle feels at virtually any speed. The suspension is tight and devoid of any squeals, groans or leans. The brakes are perfect but decisively Jaguar – if you have never driven one you will think they are soft, but if you know this pouncing cat you’ll recognize that they are perfect. Like any convertible you hear a little bit of wind noise with the top and windows up but not at all annoying. There are no leaks of any kind. I would not hesitate to drive this gorgeous automobile cross country at the hint of good weather.

Sure to appreciate more over time this Jaguar is a novel driver, weekend getaway machine or future show queen. Do not miss your opportunity to own such a perfect example of this stellar model.

Shown by appointment only and with 24 hour notice. Offered at $11,975 but will accept reasonable offers.

First Draft – the 2013 BMW 3 Series….

BMW’s bread and butter 3 series to get larger but go greener for its 2012 (2013 model year) overhaul.

 

Automobile magazines and critics love the 3 series. In one magazine in particular over the years I have marveled how the 3 series has been pitted from everything from a Ford Pinto to a Lear jet and still manage to come out on top. OK, I exaggerate a little but for those of you who follow the words you know I am not too far off.

I must confess before I continue that personally I am a fan of the 3 series BMW. Through the years I have driven and listed several BMWs across their line up and love that the 3 series has something for everyone within the lineup – the “entry” level 325 with a solid everything and the balanced BMW ride all the way up to the M3 which is a torrid beast and a vehicle on my personal bucket list.

The future 3 Series is code-named F30 replacing  the current E90 platform that has been in production since 2005.

 

Growing by two inches but featuring smaller overhangs the BMW will look a wee bit larger than its predecessor but promises more room for occupants. Notable features include a projected navigation system and BMW’s first foray into the electric/hybrid market. Before the hybrid comes BMW’s first diesel power plant in the 3 series which may make the 335D come higher on my bucket list than the M3 for now.  

This will likely be launched as 2013 models so start looking for them in magazines later this year and in your dealer showrooms around August/September of 2012.

 

 

Cosmos Red 1993 Gen III RX-7 tuned by Steve Kan

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We have the priviledge of listing a very rare vehicle in incredible condition. Immortalized by Vin Diesel in the Original “The Fast And The Furious” movie the Gen III RX-7 came to represent going fast, and looking incredible while doing it.

This vehicle is owned by Steven Innocente of By Design Creations. It has been his personal car and show piece.

Features:

House of Colors Cosmos Red Paint with triple base coat and four coats of clear making the car appear fresh out of a rain storm on the driest day.

Perfect tan leather interior with black dash and carpet and touches of carbon fiber trim throughout the cabin.

5-speed transmission pulling a Stage 2 ACT Clutch

Full cosmetic and mechanical freshening completed 2,000 miles ago featuring the following:

Body stripped and disassembled and fully custom painted by Impact Collision in Marietta, GA using House of Colors paint and the best chemicals in the business. Front and rear aero dynamics added below front and rear bumpers.

Engine removed during painting and received brand new APEX seals, gaskets, and hoses. Mazda turbos fully ported and converted from sequential to non sequential. Also monster street ported both intake and exhaust.

Features a header back HKS exhaust.

Added in glove box a GREDDY Power SC Computer and tuning tool.

A dyno completed last year ranges power between 340-350HP. This is a VERY fast car and not for the faint hearted. Triple digit speeds come with no hesitation early into 3rd gear and once the turbos spool hold on!

Low profile tires wrap Khan (no relation to the tuner) alloy wheels.

Interior looks like new and also features factory Bose acoustics through a touch screen Sony DVD/CD unit featuring iPod controls. The cruise works as does the air conditioning. This is a car that you can blast to the track and also take someone on a date in. The two do not often go together.

Feel free to call Charles at MazCare in Marietta, GA. An authority on these vehicles Charles is familiar with this car and its entire evolution to where it presents today.

Built and maintained by an  automobile professional and enthusiast all this RX-7 needs is a new home and a responsible driver. This car gets looks irrespective of the time of day. If you crave to stay out of the limelight then don’t buy this car. It looks fast standing still and delivers performance on every ounce of its looks!

Disclaimer: I have noted the following defects that reflect the sales price of the vehicle:

-There is a crack on the lower plastic piece of the left side view mirror

-The turn indicators stack is a little loose.

-There is a half penny sized chip on the front bumper

-Catalytic Convertor has been removed and will not pass Atlanta emissions as-is. Worst case scenario you can title it to the Alaskan Auto Trust (More on that in another article)

It would cost over $30,000 and hundreds of hours to recreate this car and come close… OR you can contact us and purchase it for $12,450 today. Serious inquiries only

One-Owner 2008 Tundra Limited Crew Max Edition with Navigation!

• 1-Owner
• 68K HIGHWAY MILES (owned by an entrepreneur who drives throughout Alabama)
• Arctic White with dove gray leather interior
• Chrome Door handles and chrome and rubber running boards
• Rhino Bed-Liner and Under-Cover Bed Topper with hydraulic shock lift supports
• 5.7 Liter 32V V8 with VVT-I producing 381hp with 401lb-ft torque!!!! That’s 0-60 in 6.3 seconds!
• Capable of towing 10,400 pounds!!!!
• 6 speed Automatic Transmission with sequential shift and Tow/Haul Mode
• Trailer Brake-Controller pre-wired
• Front and Rear Sonar enabled for smart cruise control
• Automatic LSD (Limited Slip differential)
• 20’’ Alloy wheel package
• VOICE AND TOUCH ACTIVATED NAVIGATION SYSTEM
• Premium JBL 12 speaker sound system with 4 disc in-dash CD and Satellite radio built-in
• Power Memory Settings for seats, outside mirrors, and steering wheel
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Power tilt and slide moonroof
• Optional rare Dark Woodgrain Trim

 

This Tundra has every conceivable option offered by Toyota in 2008 for the Tundra Limited and adding the moonroof, running boards, chrome door handles, 20 inch alloy wheels, bed liner and bed topper. There are over $5K of added extras at this excellent price!

The exterior shows a few scuffs and scratches but has NO door dings or dents of ANY KIND. Shows better than most vehicles that are only a few months old.

The interior looks like it has never been used. There is no wear on the seats. Carpet appears brand new and is protected with factory rubber mats atop the carpeted factory mats.

Driving this truck is like driving a premium Lexus SUV that can scoot to 60 MPH in under six and a half seconds, tow 5.2 tons without a sweat, keep your files organized in the center console, ensure you’re going the right way thanks to the GPS all while being constantly entertained by the Satellite and premium sound system. In other words the Gentleman’s Workhorse!

Comparable to the premium offerings from GMC, Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge the Tundra has proven itself as a worthy competitor in a distinguished group of trucks that are known to never let their owners down. Couple that to extraordinary Toyota engineering and it’s no wonder why this Tundra is an extraordinary value at $30,200 versus the nearly $45,000 it would cost you to buy a new one.

Maintenance records available and just fully serviced at Sandy Springs Toyota. PRICED TO SELL!!!

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2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 83K miles

Overview:

Fantastic Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited finished in Light Khaki Metallic and interior wrapped in two-tone Khaki and light beige  leather interior.

ALWAYS garaged and mileage is ALL highway

83,100 miles

Exterior:

Light Khaki Metallic paint in very good condition. The driver’s side rear door has knicks from parking lot proximity rage. Body shop estimates for fully repairing this is $300 and the sales price has been adjusted to accommodate for this repair.

 Interior:

The cabin is like new – wrapped in two tone khaki and tan leather interior in perfect condition. The steering wheel has a leather wrap that adds to its sporty feel and grip. Bluetooth, towing package controls, cruise control, sunroof, and full power options make this Jeep very comfortable to own.

Engine, Brakes, and Suspension:

Power comes from a 4.7 liter V8 creating 235hp and 305lbs of torque. Couple that to the smooth shifting 5 speed automatic transmission and windy mountain roads in time for ski season beckon!

Extra options on this Grand Cherokee include Bluetooth, premium sound system,wood-grain trim, dual auto climate control, sunroof, tow package, and full tow package including extra auxiliary outputs.

Driving Impression:

I love the crisp throttle response the V8 offers and the handling is very tight. The Grand Cherokee does not exhibit the float or body roll commonly experienced with SUVs this size. Braking is easy and the Jeep behaves very well around town and wonderfully on the express way. The suspension is tight and this Jeep promises its next owner years of reliable service. The current owner has just replaced the front two tires at just under $400. Priced at $14,995 this is PRICED TO SELL! Please email sasha@theatlantaautoadviser.com for appointments. Serious inquiries only please.

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Incredible 1998 Porsche Boxster Sport w/ 5 speed Tiptronic!

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Overview:

Immaculate Porsche Boxster Sport finished in Arctic Silver Metallic and interior wrapped in Terracotta (Porsche red) leather interior. Named for its horizontally opposed “boxer” engine the Boxster is a revival of the famous 550 Spyders of the 50’s and Porsche’s answer to Mazda’s Miata, and BMW’s Z series.

3-owner vehicle ALWAYS garaged and mileage is ALL highway

104,900 miles (under 9k miles per year!) -2nd owner commuted between Peachtree City and Midtown and 3rd owner drives between Roswell and Buckhead everyday.

Exterior:

Arctic Silver Metallic paint in showroom condition. There are NO dings, dents, scratches or scrapes. This Porsche has always been garaged. Black canvas top is in like new condition and the rear glass was replaced in 2010 – completely clear and not cloudy like other cars of the same vintage.

 Interior:

The cabin is like new – wraps around you like a snug blanket but is not claustrophobic like other convertibles of the same size. The drivers and passengers’ seats were re-covered by Bannister’s Upholstery in Atlanta and the seat backs and center console were re-dyed. The steering wheel has a leather wrap that adds to its sporty feel and grip. Steering wheel shift buttons make this Boxster feel like a formula one car. The convertible top operates like new and opens in 12-15 seconds.  Entertainment is provided via a premium 6 speaker sound system featuring CD. The carpet is like new and the overall showing is comparable to a vehicle years newer.

Engine, Brakes, and Suspension:

Power comes from a 2.5 liter V6 creating 201hp at 6,600rpm. Couple that to the fact that this car only weighs 2,822 pounds and you have an incredibly swift tourer! This is mid-engine at its best.  The brakes stop fast and straight lined. The 5 speed Tiptronic transmission is smooth through the power band in automatic and easy to shift through using the steering wheel controls.

Extra options on this Boxster include the $3,235 Sport Package that includes 17 inch wheels/tires, cruise control, and a $1,901 Technic sport package that adds stiffer springs, automatic brake differential and traction control. There is also a $360 wind deflector that makes top down driving a non deafening experience.

Driving Impression:

There is really something incredible about driving a Porsche. From the moment you turn the key and listen to the whine and growl at idle it’s a whole new experience. Higher than legal speeds come easily and the mid engine design and stiff springs make the term “riding on rails” seem like a total understatement. What’s most amazing about this Porsche is how economical it is given that other models from the same manufacturer can set you back $150K without a blink of an eye. Oil changes average about $110 and tires even with the staggered fit can be had for under $500. Averaging 28mpg driving this Boxster is more economical than most econo-boxes! This particular Porsche has been meticulously maintained by Checkpoint Automotive in Marietta, GA by its last two owners. Beale Hardy is an authority on Porsches and has checked every component of this Boxster. Under his care the coolant reservoir and idler pulleys and belts were replaced. Beale has also performed the routine oil changes and alignments. Feel free to contact him on any questions . Priced at $10,995 this is PRICED TO SELL! Please email sasha@theatlantaautoadviser.com for appointments. Serious inquiries only please.