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D. Brian Smith

Recent Posts by D. Brian Smith:

The 1970 Pontiac Firebird: A Muscle Car Evolution

The 1970 Pontiac Firebird marked the beginning of the second generation of Pontiac’s answer to the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro. Launched in the spring of 1970, the second-gen Firebird underwent a radical redesign that distanced it from the boxy aesthetic of the 1960s and embraced a more European-inspired, aggressive styling. Often hailed as one of the most beautifully sculpted American muscle cars of its era, the 1970 Firebird wasn't just about looks - it also packed serious performance credentials and helped Pontiac maintain its reputation as General Motors' performance brand.

Jay Leno's Garage Video: The Golden Era of Trans Am Racing (1966–1972)

The years 1966 to 1972 are widely regarded as the golden age of Trans American (Trans Am) racing, a thrilling period that saw factory-backed muscle cars, legendary drivers, and fierce rivalries come together to create one of the most exciting chapters in American motorsport history. The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) launched the series in 1966 to promote showroom stock sedans, but what followed was a war between automakers on the racetrack that would shape the identity of American performance cars for decades.

1969 Ford Mustang: Dearborn’s Muscle Marvel That Shaped a Generation

In the muscle car era, where speed ruled and style was king, no name echoed louder than Mustang. And of all the years in its glorious run, 1969 marked a turning point. It was the year Ford went all-in - expanding the lineup, ramping up performance, and putting rubber to the racetrack. The result was a legendary machine that cemented Mustang’s place in history not just as a pony car, but a true performance legend.

From Classifieds to a Classic: Restoring a 1967 SS/RS Chevy Camaro

Before the days of the world wide web, old car enthusiasts would find vintage automobiles listed for sale in the classified section of their local newspaper. Or perhaps they'd have a subscription to Hemmings Motor News, where antique cars would be listed for sale across the U.S.A. and in later years even the world over. They might also purchase Auto Trader magazines at neighborhood magazine newsstands. Back when Road & Track magazine was still published, that monthly also had several pages of classified ads in the back of the mag with cars and parts listed for sale.

Classic Industries Launches Awesome New Digital Camaro Parts Catalog!

Classic Industries, a trusted leader in the automotive restoration and performance parts industry, is excited to announce the release of the new digital version of the Camaro Parts and Accessories Catalog. This online resource brings all the quality and detail of the printed catalog into a powerful, easy-to-use digital format—perfect for customers who want fast, convenient access to parts on the go, without replacing the traditional catalog many still know and love.

Whether you prefer flipping through pages at your workbench or browsing online from your phone or tablet, Classic Industries now offers the best of both worlds.

A Life in the Fast Lane: Jeff McDougall’s Hand-Built 1968 Camaro

For Jeff McDougall, the love of Camaros started early. Drawn to the aggressive styling and raw performance of early rally sport models, Jeff found himself behind the wheel of a 1967 RS Camaro as his first car. Though the car needed work, it symbolized the beginning of a lifelong obsession. After three years of wrenching and saving in preparation for a long-overdue paint job, tragedy struck—the Camaro was totaled when a 1972 Plymouth Satellite pulled out in front of him.

Indianapolis 500 Pace Cars Through the Years - 1911 - 2025

The Indianapolis 500 has used an official pace car since its very first race in 1911, setting the pace for what would become one of the most celebrated traditions in motorsport. Here's a detailed look at the evolution—from pioneering makes of the early 20th century to today’s high-performance supercars.

Rediscovering Lainey: A Classic 1965 Ford Fairlane 500's Untold Story

In 2010, a classic car enthusiast stumbled across a forgotten gem that the previous owner had discovered in a ramshackle barn: a 1965 Ford Fairlane 500. The Fairlane 500's current owner, Robert Weber, named her Lainey—a moniker that reflects both her graceful lines and the affection she has earned over the years. Covered in a thick layer of green mold and grime, Lainey at first glance looked like she had seen better days. But what lay beneath was nothing short of remarkable.

The Iconic Thunderbird Convertibles of JFK’s 1961 Inaugural Parade

When John F. Kennedy was inaugurated as the 35th President of the United States on January 20, 1961, the ceremony and surrounding festivities were marked by a powerful blend of tradition and modernity. One of the most visually striking and historically notable elements of the 1961 Inaugural Parade was the use of a fleet of specially modified 1961 Ford Thunderbird convertibles, known as the Presidential Thunderbirds. These unique vehicles embodied the glamour, innovation, and forward-looking spirit of the new Kennedy administration.

1961 Ford Thunderbird - First Year of the Three-Year Bullet Bird

The 1961 Ford Thunderbird was a styling triumph for the Ford Motor Company during the space race American car styling epoch of the late 1950's and early 1960's. No one person is credited with coining the nickname Bullet Bird, just as no one designer for the Ford Motor Company is acknowledged with creating this superlative automotive shape that so aptly characterizes space race automotive styling during this era.