Category Archives: Modern Classic

Ferrari, Modern Classic

2000 Ferrari 456GTA

The 1990s saw the return of front engined, V12 touring machines to the US market from the house of the Prancing Horse. The Ferrari 456GT was the first front-engined V12 to be officially sold in the US in over two decades. Introduced in 1992, this was a dramatic looking coupe with a 5.5 liter engine producing 436 horsepower. In 1996, in what was considered blasphemy by purists, an automatic transmission became available. This four speed gearbox was designed with help of FF Developments, a company later bought by Ricardo Engineering. Only 403 were produced with this transmission, but it signaled a changing era at Ferrari where a foot operated clutch would become a thing of the past. This low mileage 456GTA for sale in California is on offer for a fraction of its original cost.

2000 Ferrari 456GTA

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2000 Ferrari 456 Automatic. Low 10k miles, excellent inside and out. Recent major service completed. This low mile Black/Tan Ferrari 456 is among the nicest of this model to be found anywhere today. With low low miles (10,873), both interior and exterior in excellent condition, if you have been looking for a low mile fantastic example of the 456, here is your car. Featuring the automatic transmission, Black exterior paint, Tan leather hides, power seats, Cavalino floor mats, stereo, tools and four piece set of Ferrari 456 luggage all included at the price of $69,000.

If you ever wanted a front engined V12 Ferrari from the 1990s and early 2000s, now is the time to pounce. While maintenance costs are never a cheap proposition with these cars, I tend to think we've reached close to the bottom when it comes to nice, unmolested examples of these stunning coupes. While I'd prefer a manual transmission, I'd almost hate to admit that I wouldn't mind having this automatic 456 in my garage. In basic black, it's simply stunning and would be an interesting alternative in which to arrive in at that special black tie event.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

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Like the 1985 GTV6 we featured this past Wednesday, the Alfa Romeo Milano is a popular car for those seeking cheap Italian thrills. This was the last Alfa Romeo sedan to feature rear-wheel drive and with its rear mounted gearbox, this car is a treat in the bends. This Milano Verde for sale outside of Philadelphia has had a slew of maintenance items addressed and is in fairly good cosmetic condition for its age and mileage.

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

The time has come to sell my '88 Milano Verde. I've had it for nearly two years now and have put a lot of time and money in it and it's time to move on. I've attached some pictures below. The car has around 169,000 miles on it and I purchased it with 163,XXX on it. During my ownership I have done the following:

New timing belt, tensioner, power steering belt, AC belt, cam seals, cam cover gaskets, spark plug gaskets, oil pressure sender, and refreshed the fuel rail (new hoses) at 164,879 miles. New turn signal stalk (the place I got it inspected at thought you turned on the high beams by slamming the switch forward like newer cars and broke it...)

New ball joints (upper and lower) on both sides
New battery
Redid headliner
New clutch slave and hose (replaced with braided hose)
Replaced dashboard with one that doesn't have any cracks or issues (also cleaned out heater box and freshened that up with some pieces from a parts car)
New clutch, rear brake calipers, rear brake pads, watts link bushing, and trailing arm bushings at 167,xxx miles
Put on a Euro grill (can include original one if interested)

The AC does work fine
Sunroof doesn't leak or have any issues opening or closing
All window regulators work swimmingly (replaced passenger front a couple months ago)
Doors all lock properly
Has euro downpipes
Euro headlights
164 LS wheels
No flashing lights on the ARC
ABS light is currently on, but it should just be the passenger sensor that needs replacing (hub fell and stressed wire when replacing the ball joints - will diagnose and fix if I can find time to get to it) The pump runs fine and the ABS system worked flawlessly before replacing the ball joint, so something must have gotten out of whack during that
The windows are tinted to keep the interior cooler
Recaro seats are in pretty good shape (see photos)

Feel free to ask any questions below or PM me. I'm asking $4750, but am open to offers. The car is located in West Chester, PA (about 45 minutes south east of Philadelphia - near the Delaware/PA border).

An Alfa like this with over 150,000 miles could be cause for concern, but looking at the photos and reading over what has been done leads me to believe this car is more solid than most. The asking price is at the bottom end of what Milanos are fetching these days and it's always encouraging to see a seller willing to negotiate. If you could get this car for somewhere around $4,000 to $4,500, it would be well bought.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

2001 Ferrari F550 Barchetta

The Ferrari F550 Barchetta has always been a bit of an oddball, forgotten Ferrari of recent years. The proportions kind of turned me off a bit, with the roll hoops looking a bit out of place and the long rear deck looking, well, a bit too long. Nevertheless, this was based off one of my favorite Ferraris of all time, the F550 Maranello, so I still have a bit of soft spot for these cars. They are compromised, however, as the roof included with the car could only be used up to 70 mph. This Barchetta for sale in California has been modified by the current seller, having the roll hoops taken off and the original racing seats removed for stock F550 Maranello seats. It gives this car a bit more of a tamer, street look.

2001 Ferrari F550 Barchetta

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Up for auction is an absolutely stunning 2001 Ferrari Barchetta in Rosso Fiorano with Black Interior and only 8,130 miles. Serial Number 124043. Production Number 065/448. This 550 Barchetta was sold new at Ferrari of Dallas in August 30, 2001. The second owner was from California and in the entertainment industry. He sold it because he did not have time to drive it. Major service was completed in June 2012 at The Auto Gallery, an authorized Ferrari dealership (replacement of timing belts, etc.).

I have always loved the 550 Barchetta. I consider it the ideal modern Ferrari – impeccably made, equipped with modern electronic conveniences, very easy to drive and great for long distances. I would take this over a Daytona Spyder any day. Evidently, I made several modifications to this Barchetta due to personal preferences. I have always hated the big racing seats and the roll bars which visually detract from the smooth and flowing lines of the car. I would look at the roll bars and think the car was waiting to be picked up by a crane. So I took the roll bars out by simply removing 4 bolts and capped off the holes using the same materials which were dyed to match. The seats were replaced with 2 black Ferrari 550 coupe seats which bolted right into the factory holes from the racing seats. Now when you look at the Barchetta your eyes follow the lines of the car from any angle. Nothing was cut in this car so it can go back to stock in 1 hour (the stock seats and roll bars are included in this sale). I also added a Tubi Exhaust to give it that great Ferrari sound.

I know you’ll have questions so please feel free to call me: Rick – 805 218 0606. Please call rather than text. It takes me too long to reply by text or by email.

This is an interesting car because few people have the nerve to modify a Ferrari for fear of devaluing it. I like the fact that the seller removed the roll hoops, but personally, I would have kept the original seats. These open roofed F550s command a bit more money than their hardtop siblings. With low mileage and the desirable 6-speed manual gearbox, this car should bring somewhere around the $150,000 mark, as the range for these cars can range from around $125,000 and edge up close to $200,000. Personally, I'd rather have the beautiful hardtop, but these Barchettas might follow in the legendary Daytona Spyder and see prices reach into the stratosphere in the near future.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1985 Alfa Romeo GTV6

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Much like the Alfa Romeo Spider, the GTV6 is a great way to get into an Italian classic car for not much outlay. These coupes are a hidden gem for everything from track days to autocross. With a sweet V6 coupled to a rear-drive chassis with rear mounted transaxle, these Alfas offer up quite a bit of motoring fun. This GTV6 for sale in California is a solid driver in need of a little TLC.

1985 Alfa Romeo GTV6

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A runner! '86 GTV6 (October ’85 production date) STOCK, 79000+ miles. VIN# ZARAA 6695G100 7837 with ownership provenance for last 8+ years; service records since purchase from PO. Awesome car now in California (POs in Texas/Maine/GA) in very good overall condition; hasn’t been CA smogged due to storage.)

Appears to have Milano engine (strong with no head leaks, AND mechanical detensioner) and Milano TA with a very smooth up & down, “no-crunch” gearbox (double clutching is even smoother) Good brakes including parking brake with 80%+ pad life. Fully functional TropicAire A/C (R134) – tested no leaks during discharge before storage and needs recharge. Pioneer radio/CD. All working dash gauges (and senders) - 160MPH speedo & 8000rpm tach. Good sand leather Recaro seating with minor pleather upholstery issues (see pics). Almost-new front floor mats (not hiding holes below). Strong oil pump and working gauge. Very good paint with bottle of touch up included; choice of stock wheels with the 185 tires (205 tires possible) – see pics. Drives great (fly in/drive home),

Documented renovation begun by PO in TX (Docs exist for all renovation work listed below) but due to business issues, has been in storage since purchase and transport to NoCA. Well maintained; up to date service. All electrics work inside including power windows and mirrors (except courtesy lights) and out; no damage and NO RUST except where noted (see pics also).

Cosmetics (see pics) & Disclosures –

-Small dent on passenger side hatch corner
-Minor rust bubble on driver side hatch rear corner
-Usual single dash crack – dash mat cover included
-Seats have expected scaling and fading; drivers seam re-stitch needed
-Sunroof drain on drivers side seems blocked – have not investigated the front fender compartment drain outlet area on either side; others do drain OK but silicone sealed.
-Lower Oil Sump gasket needs replacing
-Driver’s window mechanism squeals going down.
-Shift lever rattles at +/- 3500rpm

Renovation work in last 5000miles (by PO before CA storage)

-Valve adjustment – 0.019in intake and 0.007in exhaust.
-Replaced speedo – cheaper than fix & recalibrate.
-New & transferable lifetime warranty Solar Guard Ultra Performance 75 sun block film on side & back windows + front eyebrow (see http://www.solargard.com/CA/Auto/Ultra)
-New rear hatch molding
-New horns
-New plenum couplers (Greg Gordon)
-New injector hoses (Greg Gordon)
-Remanufactured injectors (OKInjectors)
-New Bosch alternator and battery
-New Coil
-New high capacity A/C compressor
-New R134 A/C plumbing and pressure-tested system
-Cooling System - Individual fan relays & no head leaks
-Cooling system flushed
-New brake system flush
-New front suspension parts (professional alignment after completion)
-New poly castor bushes
-New tie rod ends
-New top and bottom ball joints
-New top control arm bushes
-New poly sway bushes
-New drop link bushes
-New rear suspension parts
-Full ½-shaft axles (both sides had incorrect GTV6 TA axles – quite a discovery during cornering…)
-Sway bushes
-Complete drop link assemblies

This is a rare opportunity to purchase a very clean and straight late model GTV6. They are extremely hard to find in this condition... not modified or personalized in anyway. But, it is not a perfect car, as I have described.

As described, this isn't a perfect GTV6, but a good example to start with if you want a fully sorted driver. With most of the mechanicals seeming straight, the intrepid enthusiast wouldn't have too much of an issue righting the other minor issues. The BIN of $6,500 is about what a solid driver with a few issues would get you these days, but I'd maybe like to see maybe $500 to $1,000 knocked off the asking price to leave room for some of the imminent costs ahead.

-Paul

Maserati, Modern Classic

2005 Maserati Quattroporte Neiman Marcus Edition

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With the holidays upon us and gift giving on everyones' minds, it's a perfect time to take a look at a trinket from one of the most storied holiday catalogs: the Christmas Book from Neiman Marcus. Every year, this boutique's holiday catalog offers "Fantasy Gifts" geared for multi-millionaires looking for posh, out of the ordinary gifts. For the 2004 Christmas Book, Neiman Marcus offered a special edition Maserati Quattroporte. A total of 60 cars were built and included in the package were the Bordeaux Pontevecchio paintwork complemented by Ivory Poltrona Frau leather with Bordeaux piping. Chrome meshing on the front grille and side vents along with 19" ball finished alloy wheels finished off the package, along with a specially numbered plaque on the dashboard. This special edition Quattroporte for sale in Florida was the 18th example built.

2005 Maserati Quattroporte Neiman Marcus Edition

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Florida's Premier Maserati Dealer Has Just Traded In This Stunning 2005 Maserati Quattroporte! #18 of 60 Worldwide - Neiman Marcus Edition. Finished In Bordeaux Pontevecchio with Campionario Leather Interior. This Naples, FL Automobile Features:

Duo-Select Paddle Shift Transmission
Navigation System/Infotainment Screen
Premium Audio System with CD Changer
Silver Color Brake Calipers
Alcantara Headlining
Drilled Leather Power Heated Seats with Memory Feature
Rear Park Assistance Sensor
Power Sunroof
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
19" Ball Polished Wheels

Prices of early fifth generation Quattroportes have come down to levels where less well heeled enthusiasts can afford them, but as usual, maintenance costs are still a concern. Clutch replacements for the DuoSelect gearbox can be pricey, but depending on the way you drive, you can get upwards of 30,000 miles on a clutch. For those seeking a bit more reliability, Maserati began offering a ZF automatic in the 2007 model year. However, the fully automatic cars can be a bit more expensive. For a 2005 Quattroporte with over 30,000 miles, the asking price is a bit on the high side. A value somewhere between $35,000 and $40,000 is more realistic. True, this is a special edition model, but when you boil it down, it's merely a trim package. For me, the color is very attractive and would be on my short list if I was to buy a Quattroporte.

-Paul

Maserati, Modern Classic

1989 Maserati 430

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The 430 was Maserati's attempt in the late 1980s to challenge the likes of BMW and Mercedes in the compact executive car market. An evolution of the oft maligned Biturbo, the 430 added an extra set of doors and a longer wheelbase to appeal to a broader market. It was a futile attempt, and less than 1,000 were built between 1987 and 1994. This 430 for sale in Florida has low mileage, but with little in the way of a description from the seller, would it be crazy to give this motor even a passing glance?

1989 Maserati 430

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Maseratis of this era represent a cheap way into an exotic marque. The interior and exterior of this 430 look very well kept, but what about the mechanicals. A picture of the engine bay hasn't been provided by the seller, which raises some red flags in my book. But, this could very well be a mechanically sound motor. If a knowledgeable mechanic could give this car a clean bill of health, then someone is about to get a bargain.

-Paul

Lamborghini, Modern Classic

1984 Lamborghini Jalpa

When people think of Lamborghini, they remember the greats such as the Miura, Countach and Diablo. Along with the early grand touring coupes and off-road LM002, there was the Jalpa, a derivative of the mid-engined V8 Urraco of the 1970s. A limited number of these sports cars were produced in an effort to bring Lamborghini ownership to a wider audience. This Jalpa for sale in New Orleans has under 20,000 miles on the clock and is for auction at no reserve.

1984 Lamborghini Jalpa

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1984 Lamborghini Jalpa with Targa top and rear wing. This is one of an estimated 50 Jalpa's remaining. Only about 400 were ever built, and that was nearly three decades ago. I think this car is potential museum quality car with the original paint being in near perfect condition. There are no dents or scratches in the paint, nor have there been. The interior is all original and is supple with no cracks or tears.

The engine is a brand new rebuild from the leading Lamborghini Jalpa expert, at a cost of over $25,000.00. New clutch, and braided lines. Four two barrel carburetors. New powdercoated axles, stainless exhaust system, polished aluminum water tank and fuel filter and too much else to list. All new MSD electronics from ignition to alternator. All original wheels and brakes, with new coil over shocks from Italy. This is a California car, with no rust. Only driven 657 gentle miles a year since new (18,409 mi).

This is a rare opportunity to own a true piece of Lamborghini history in authentic original condition. There are approximately ten times more Countach than Jalpa's left in the world. Countach have now been listed for over $200,000.00 US and going up. There were 338 Miura's produced, which are similar production numbers to the Jalpa. They have been listed at over $1,000,000.00 US. Of the few left, this is by far the nicest Jalpa I have seen, and is offered here at a mere pittance of expected value.

We will assist with shipping any where in the world, but buyer pays all shipping costs. Sold as is where is, all pre bidding inspections are invited. Inspectmyride.com is one company, but personal inspection is preferred. I have clean clear title in hand. Cash only or bank wire, no trades of any sort. Good luck bidding. (the actual Vin number cannot be included in ebay boiler plate as EBAY is not equipped to handle low production Exotics with European VINs. This car is number 98. ZA9J00000ELA12098. Also, there is a very old plate on the back of the car from a decade ago I forgot to remove before photos. We are not affiliated with that company).

Even though the Jalpa is just as rare as the Miura, the desirability isn't as high. That's not to say that the Jalpa is a bad car. It's just that the Miura was that good. The Jalpa represents the cheapest way into a Lamborghini short of a Pontiac Fiero based kit car, with prices starting in the low $30,000 range and sometimes reaching into $40,000 territory. These cars have a good bit of 1980s cool about them with their rear spoiler and flared bodywork.

As a Philadelphian, it would be remiss if I didn't mention the appearance the Jalpa made in Rocky IV, replete with the "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" license plates that technically, were not grammatically incorrect but overly verbose:

-Paul

Maserati, Modern Classic

1984 Maserati Biturbo

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Italian cars aren't the most reliable vehicles on the block. In recent years they have improved, but there's always the shadow of doubt that something could go wrong that would put a damper on your day. The Maserati Biturbo, however, is the kind of car that could put a damper on your entire life. Designed to help Maserati compete in a lower priced segment, de Tomaso, the cash strapped owners of the marque, designed the car on a shoestring budget. Mechanical maladies were many, which made for many frustrated owners and a slew of Biturbos with low mileage because people just gave up on the cars. You can buy a Biturbo for pennies on the dollar these days, but does it make it a smart buy? This Biturbo for sale in Illinois looks fairly innocent, but trouble could lurk underneath.

1984 Maserati Biturbo

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This is my 1984 Maserati Biturbo. This Biturbo has 16k original miles! It has a beautiful interior and exterior, and you can tell it was properly stored. It is rust-free, and it is in near mint condition. This truly is the nicest Biturbo I have ever seen. You would be hard-pressed to find one in this condition. You really must see this car to appreciate it! I drove this Biturbo around my neighborhood twice, but the carburetor is currently off the car. This car is almost entirely original, including the Michelin tires! I am reluctantly selling my Maserati, because I have bought another car and I do not have room for both. I can refer any potential buyer to an excellent shipping company, should the need arise. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me.

I'm not sure if I would be bragging about the car having original tires. After almost 30 years, I would say it would be about time to get some more pliable (and safer) rubber. I would also want to know why the carburetor has been taken off. It seems there might be some issue the owner doesn't want to address right up front. The best Biturbo out there may bring $6,000 to $7,000 in the current market. If you could snag this car for around $4,000 or a little under, you might have a good buy. Just be prepared to put your local mechanic's kid through college if you pull the trigger.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

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The 1991 Testarossa was the final shout for the first iteration of the car that symbolized Ferrari in the 1980s. Chiseled Pininfarina lines, wide haunches and a mighty flat-12 cylinder engine came together in a package that was the fantasy of many enthusiasts worldwide. While most were painted red, this silver example for sale in Pennsylvania exudes a bit more subtlety while still remaining rather imposing.

1991 Ferrari Testarossa

What an awesome car for the sports car enthusiast. This car has been owned by the original purchaser from initial delivery in 1991 for a grand total of $181,000.00. It has been garage kept, as one would expect and has never seen harsh weather, unless you consider a sunny summer day to be a bit harsh. This magnificent machine has a very low total of 14,878 miles. A few of the miles have been added by me as I attempt to step up in class. While I continue to discover the truly finest automotive motoring, I am reveling in only the best that this auto presents. The 12 cylinder engine and subtly tuned exhaust makes this car fly and satisfy your ear for the purr that you desire. A most rare color combination for the very last Testarossa model (1984 to 1991) a magnificent silver body with blue leather combine to make this car even more exceptional. Offset chrome rims offer a most distinguishing contrast to the body. This car gets up and goes while being powered by the 12 cylinder (2 independent motors to those in the know) 4.9 litres, 390 HP mid-engine specifications coupled with an extremely smooth 5 speed transmission. The 12 cylinder configuration has 4 valves per cylinder to total 48 valves operating. Doesn't get much better than that.

For those of you who desire more sizzle, as I do, I am now including a bit of interesting info on the Testarossa in general. I have personal memberships in 2 organizations - one being a north American Italian American association and the other, a local Italian club group. Within, we have gifted and knowledgeable people that school me in the finer things of life. And certainly, this automotive wonder does qualify. The term - Testarossa translates to " Red Head" from Italian to English. Ferrari collaborated with Pininfarina S.p.A. - automobile designer and builder - to provide this auto. The Testarossa name, keep in mind - " Red Head" - describes the red painted cam covers. Subtle, but none the less - hot. I could elaborate a bit more on the name and the inferences but this ad is directed to a family audience. The side vented "cheese graters" are fully functional as well as stylish. The car is rear wheel drive with a 40-60 front to rear weight distribution. 0 to 60 in under 6 seconds and a top end of 180 mph. Quick but luxurious, to include hand sewn leather complimented by fine carpeting. The sum and substance to this is the following - I can envision Sophia Loren in the passenger seat beside me at the wheel. However, my wife would object. Have a really fine day as you ponder this offer to propel you into the jet-set crowd.

While it's nice the owner offered up all of this background information, it would have been good policy to delve into the servicing specifics and what maintenance items have been taken care of already. The asking price is just about right for a Testarossa of this vintage and mileage. Bought properly, these are a lot of cars for the money, as they've never been more inexpensive. However, if you don't do your homework, the wrong car could wind up being a costly proposition.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

2008 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

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Of all the new cars introduced in the last decade, I believe by far the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is the most gorgeous of them all. A limited production exotic based heavily on Ferrari mechanicals, the 8C employed a 4.2 liter V8 with 444 horsepower and a carbon fiber body mated to a steel chassis. This was the first Alfa Romeo to be sold in the US since the manufacturer left the automotive landscape in 1995. The US got the lion's share of the 500 8C's produced, with 90 coming to these shores. This 8C for sale in Illinois is a rare chance to get behind the wheel of this brilliant looking sports car.

2008 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

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A very rare Alfa 8C! Only 1,831 miles, Rosso Alfa with Cuoio leather racing seats and full interior carbon kit. Black carpets, Bose sound, red calipers, iPod connector, leather headliner and bordeaux stitching. 1 OF 500 made. Carbon body panels, hi output Ferrari V8, F1 gearbox, a very special car.

The 8C Competizione had an original list price of $275,000, which was uncharted territory for Alfa Romeo at the time. Today, these cars are highly prized and typically bring anywhere between $225,000 to $250,000. Most of these cars that come up for sale have low mileage, but honestly, I would love to be wealthy enough to use one of these on a daily basis. Alfa Romeo knocked it out of the park when it came to aesthetics on this one.

-Paul