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Don’t miss out on grabbing a copy of New Zealand Classic Car Issue No. 295

23 June, 2015

You better grab the July issue of New Zealand Classic Car (Issue No. 295) while it’s still available in stores.

In this issue we celebrate the historic Kiwi one–two finish at this year’s famous 24 Hours of Le Mans. We also take a look back in time to 50 years ago, when a jet-powered Rover made its second and final race appearance at Le Mans.

Ford’s Deluxe series of flathead V8-powered pre-war coupes and convertibles have always been a favourite amongst classic car enthusiasts and hot rodders alike, such as our featured 1939 Ford Coupé convertible.

We go searching, but without much success, for Suzanne Somers or Halle Berry while road- testing Ford’s final Thunderbird.

We get up close and personal with the Ferrari 458 Speciale, the fastest version of the prancing horse’s jaw-dropping 458 Italia. Read our verdict.

If it’s bling you’re after, then read all about our in-depth look at the shiny art of chrome plating.    

NZ Classic Car magazine, July August 2025 issue 400, on sale now

15 June, 2025

Good for the soul, a dose of Hemi Orange – Chrysler’s champion Charger
The Australian-developed Chrysler Charger was a game changer for the company in 1971, as it faced a faltering start introducing its new VH range. The stylish big coupe signalled a massive change of direction and emphasis for Chrysler.
Auckland racing driver Rod Coppins raced successfully in Australia and New Zealand. Rod found success behind the wheel of a couple of Chargers, and it is a special E49 R/T in the custody of Mike Todd for some years, that is our feature car.
A full restoration of this car has been completed at Auto Restorations (AR) in Christchurch. We recently sampled the car, ready to be shipped back to Mike and spoke to AR’s Harry Dawber, leading the team who completed the superb restoration of this rare piece of NZ motor racing history.
I mentioned that Chrysler Chargers were never built to this standard as we walked around the gleaming Charger in its Hemi Orange colour scheme.
“We took a lot of time getting those shut lines exactly right. It’s been a great car to work on, and the paint and trim have been very well done by the team here.”

Britannia rules the roads – Royal Tour Cars – part 2

13 June, 2025

Royal rollers and fancy Fords
Ford Zodiacs had transported the Queen Mother during her tour in 1958 but five years on, their glitz had perhaps faded a bit too much for an actual monarch. As there was no longer a convertible version of Britain’s Zephyr or Zodiac on offer, Ford looked to their American arm for a replacement, finding it in the huge Ford Galaxie. The Public Service Garage purchased the car at around £3000 for royal tour work and VIP transport.