Shop ClassicIndustries.com
classic-news-blog-main-header-1

1964 Plymouth Valiant - Practicality & Fun

In 1960, Plymouth introduced the new Valiant as a compact alternative to larger full-size models such as the Belvedere, Fury, and Savoy. The first-generation Valiant bore assertive styling cues that included protruding fins alongside the body, angled oval tail lamps, and a faux spare tire on the trunk lid. For the 1963 model year, Plymouth redesigned the Valiant with clean lines and simplified styling. This change was well-received by the public, leading to an uptick in sales for the little Plymouth.

1969 Dart GTS - A-Body Muscle

When it comes to Mopar muscle cars, many people tend to think of E-body vehicles such as the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth 'Cuda, or B-body vehicles like the Dodge Charger and Plymouth Road Runner. The Mopar A-body served as a platform for smaller and more economical cars like the Dodge Dart and Plymouth Valiant. However, the A-body also proved it could hold its own in the muscle car arena.

1998 Firebird - Reborn in a Flash

The fourth-generation GM F-body is a performance bargain, and a platform that has been steadily garnering more appreciation as the years pass. This includes both Camaro and Firebird/Trans Am models. While some may claim the fourth-gen cars are too new to be considered classics, we can remember the same being said about third-gen and even second-gen models in past decades. As far as we're concerned, the fourth-gen is definitely worthy of respect and appreciation.

1971 Chevy C10 - Stepside Shop Truck

Darin Smith is a lifelong car guy. He grew up helping out at his father's tire shop, then did a stint as a service writer at a dealership. Eventually, he opened a shop of his own, not far from the Classic Industries Retail Showroom in Huntington Beach, California. Now Darin spends his days restoring classic cars and living his dream. When the need arose for a shop truck for local parts runs, he opted for something more distinctive than a brand-new pickup, and bought this 1971 Chevy C10.

1966 Dodge Charger - The Start of a Legend

These days, many people associate the Dodge Charger with its modern four-door Mopar namesake, whether it's in the form of a fun family hauler, police car, or tire-shredding Hellcat. Many others recall the muscular B-body Charger of the late '60s and early '70s, as well as its appearances in Bullitt and The Dukes of Hazzard. But the history of this automotive icon started back in 1966 with the first-generation fastback Charger.

1970 Caprice - Full Size Coupe

Starting in 1958 after the end of the Tri-Five series, Chevrolet cars received the moniker of Full Size Chevy. As this line continued into the 1970s, dimensions grew and these vehicles began to truly live up to their "Full Size" name. Specifically, the '70 Caprice measured in at 216 inches long, nearly 8 inches more than a long-bed C10 pickup from the same model year. Needless to say, these Full Size cars have an impressive presence on the road.

1965 Impala SS - Obsidian & Chrome

Ever since its inception, the sleek styling of the Chevrolet Impala has made it a popular choice for cruisers, lowriders, and hot-rodders alike. Super Sport models have been especially popular due to their larger engine displacement choices and muscular performance. A restored Full Size Chevy looks great in virtually any configuration, but we love the sinister look of this black '65 Impala SS, owned by Francisco Ferrer, of Oak Hills, California.

1978 Trans Am - A Well-Earned Reward

As the saying goes, patience is a virtue, and few are more acutely aware of this than those who save up for years to afford a dream car. It's not easy to deliberately set aside a portion of every paycheck and leave that money untouched until the day it can be handed over in exchange for the keys to the classic car you've always wanted. But Connor Schwarz, of Huntington Beach, CA, did just that in order to purchase his 1978 Trans Am.

1980 Camaro Z28 - High School Project

Classic car restoration is a passion that bridges generations. Whether you're just learning how to turn a wrench or you're a veteran builder with decades of experience, everyone can appreciate the transformation of a timeless vehicle. We always enjoy meeting up-and-coming young classic car fans, and assisting them with their first projects. Tyler Baird, of Huntington Beach, California, is an excellent example of this group. Despite still being in high school, he's already spent several years restoring his 1980 Camaro Z28.

1968 Dodge Charger - Cruise Missile

We've spoken to many classic car owners over the years who drive their restored vehicles frequently, rain or shine. But it takes a special kind of owner to hop behind the wheel of a 50-year-old muscle car with a 500ci V8 and manual transmission and embark on a 2,600-mile road trip just for fun. It also takes a special vehicle to remain reliable and comfortable on such a journey. Jasper Thomas, of Pitt Meadows, BC, Canada is that kind of owner. His 1968 Dodge Charger is that kind of car.