Summer Loving - Australia’s best driving roads (Continued) 29 December 2016 11:52 Rare Spares General, Rare Spares (0) ShareAustralia isn't called the lucky country for nothing, we have great weather (in some places), a thriving automotive culture and world class scenery at our doorstep. So when it comes to the great Aussie road trip, we really are spoilt for choice. Here we will continue our list of amazing drives, just in time for summer. The Nullarbor Plain -Western Australia (pictured above) If you have a few days to spare then we suggest heading off from Ceduna in SA and head west for 2000km to Perth through the wide, almost treeless, landscape of the Nullarbor. It may be dry and known as a harsh environment, but it’s surely no desert. The flowing wooded hills flatten out to plateaus that are sprinkled with bluebush. Kangaroos line the roads and giant wedge-tailed eagles patrol the skies. You’ll probably need a four-wheel-drive if you plan to leave the highway, but otherwise it’s easy driving with plenty to take in. Kuranda - Queensland (pictured above) If you take off from the tropical beaches of Cairns, it won't take long before you are experiencing the incredible World Heritage listed rainforest air around the mountain retreat of Kuranda. We suggest keeping your windows down along the route to truly take in the humming of thousands of cicadas from among huge buttress trees as well as the sounds of the birds that call the rainforest home. Uluru to Kings Canyon - Northern Territory (pictured above) This three hour drive along the Lasseter Highway from the red rock to Kings Canyon will provide you with true blue red earth country and skies bigger than you could ever imagine. You can also take the trip starting off at Alice Springs and take on the Red Centre Way. You’ll need about five days, with stops at historic towns and ancient rock art sites, not to mention the odd wild camel, this is one special journey. Sydney to Melbourne Most of the time this trip is made by budget airline, but did you know that choosing the four wheeled option can be a lot more fun? Expect a string of quant coastal towns, wild camping spots, vast national parks and turquoise lagoons. The lovely scenery is complimented by plenty of beaut fishing spots, birdlife galore and many kangaroos who regularly pose for photographs beside the surf at Pebbly Beach. With all these great spots to check out, we say fill up the tank, throw in your swag and get to adventuring! What's your favourite drive? Head over to the Rare Spares Facebook page and let us know in the comments!
House on the Hill – Checking out Mt Panorama’s Most Exclusive Property 29 December 2016 11:48 Rare Spares (0) ShareMount Panorama is one of the most well-known names in the world of Aussie motorsport, from Brocky to Bowe; the circuit has played host to some of the most breathtaking races we have ever seen. With the famous track also doubling as a public road for the majority of the year, there are a few residents who have the privilege of calling it home. However, with arguably the coolest property at Mt Panorama now on the market, you could join this exclusive club. 505 Conrod Straight is a quant 10 acre property that is situated right on Conrod Straight. The motorsport dream house is located at the rise of the first crest heading towards The Chase, making it ideal for viewing the fastest piece of bitumen in the country. As you’d expect, property on Mount Panorama doesn’t become available very often so you will want to get in quick if you want to snap up a piece of automotive nirvana. Back in 2002 the circuit oasis, equipped with guest house, large garage and a pool, sold for $255,000. Now estimates are putting it closer to $2,700,000, so you better have some deep pockets if you plan on taking name to possibly the most unique address in Australia. Although many motorsport fanatics would dream of living in such a place, there will only be one very lucky person who can claim the title of “King of the House”. Owning such an incredible piece of land does come at a price, you would have to deal with your driveway being closed four weekends throughout the year, but when you have the best viewing position out there, we say that’s a pretty good compromise. Would you like to live at Mt Panorama? Do you think you could control yourself living on Australia’s best race track? Head over to the comments section on the Rare Spares Facebook page to let us know!
Rent-A-Racer - The Ford Shelby GT-350H Mustang 06 December 2016 06:37 Rare Spares General, Rare Spares (0) ShareHave you ever wondered what it would be like to drive an iconic American muscle car? Back in May 1966, Hertz New York took that same wondrous thought and made it a reality with the “Rent-A-Racer” program. This genius idea gave every day people the ability to rent a street legal track spec Shelby GT-350 for only $17 per day ($70 per week) plus an additional 0.17c per mile. Apart from the colour scheme, the 1966 Ford Shelby GT-350 was mechanically no different from the Ford Shelby GT-350H with the H simply stating for “Hertz”. The Hertz version was released in the incredibly popular gold stripes on black paintwork compared to the standard Shelby with white with blue stripes plus a few other optional variations. The 1966 Shelby delivered 306hp under foot (a 35hp increase from standard high performance mustangs with 271hp) plus a few other go fast bits such as high rise manifold, a big four barrel carby, 11 inch Kelsey-Hayes disc brakes to help pull up the extra horsepower, wider tyres to aid the muscle car physique, front sway bar for stiffness and a full set of Koni’s at all four corners. 50 years on Hertz is once again offering the performance thoroughbred to the world. This year the iconic Ford Shelby GT Mustang has been released with the “H” attached to selected Hertz outlets. So if you’re flying around America, you are able to enquire about the Hertz Adrenaline Collection of cars and you will soon have the option to rent a 2016 Ford Shelby GT-H Mustang. Although the $17 per day price point may have taken a slight increase, the newer edition has some major increases to merit the cost, improvements in drivability, aesthetics and power will be the main updates for the new halo car. There were 1000 Mustangs produced for Hertz in 1966, while it’s unsure at this point how many are to be produced for the 2016 release, it’s sure to be limited, so early bookings will no doubt be a necessity if you want the chance to realise your dream of driving one of the most iconic & prestigious American muscle cars ever to grace the black top. What did you think of the Rent-a-Racer idea? Did the car look the part or fail to impress? Head over to the Rare Spares Facebook page and let us know in the comments!
Wooden Wonders – The world of wood panelled cars 29 November 2016 07:27 Rare Spares General, Rare Spares (0) ShareAs automotive enthusiasts, there are a million and one things we love about cars. From exhilarating performance to their racing pedigree and history, there is a broad spectrum of things that appeal to us, but all of this is nothing without style. There have been a number of body styles over the years, some quirky and some more practical, but one of the most unique to appear in the automotive spectrum would be those with wood panels or “Woodies”. These vehicles were the example of outstanding craftsmanship and design flair and here we will take a brief look at the origins of the style and some of the cars that defined the movement. In the early days of engineless transport, wood was used in the construction of many horse drawn carts and carriages. These sound design elements naturally transferred across too many early motor vehicles, but it wasn’t until the 1920’s that cars with wood become the desirable choice. It was Ford in 1929 with the Model A that claimed the title of the first mass produced Woodie, with more than half of the vehicles exterior being crafted with timber. Although the use of this material was a relatively common place at the time, advancements in steel stamping slowly pushed wood to be used more for styling than structure. The 1946-48 Chrysler Town and Country was one of the vehicles that adopted wooden styling and hit the nail on the head in terms of design. The station wagon was the first Woodie with an all-steel roof and featured wooden double doors (also called “Barrel Back” doors) and came in a four door sedan layout. The popular Chrysler Town and Country two door convertible was also offered and at the time was the most luxurious car on the market! The Packard Super Eight was produced pre-WWII and was one of the most luxurious of the time. The vehicle featured a 160HP straight eight engine, not to mention wooden doors and rear quarter panels. However, the Woodie movement was not without its ugly ducklings and this generally came in the form of “faux” wood made with vinyl trim which began plaguing cars from the 1970’s all the way to the 1990’s. Thankfully this trend never really caught on in Australia. When it comes to cars of a bygone era, its clear to see how outstanding design and creativity can stand the test of time. Although beautiful, we are pretty happy that manufactures steered away from termite-bait on wheels to more practical and durable materials. What do you think of these wooden wonders? Timeless beauties, or better left to rot? Head over to the Rare Spares Facebook page and let us know in the comments!
The Modern Classic – Taking a look at the last of the mighty Monaro’s 22 November 2016 06:52 Rare Spares General, Rare Spares (0) ShareAustralia has had its fair share of automotive icons over the years, vehicles that encouraged, shaped and defined our automotive culture as we know it. The Holden Monaro has been one particular model that arguably takes out the crown as one of Australia’s most important four wheeled creations and, with a linage that spans a number of decades, the car has won its place in the hearts of enthusiasts across the country. Here we will take a look at the last of the popular two door coupes which farewelled one of Australia’s most loved performance breeds, the Holden Monaro CV8. The first CV8 Monaro graced the automotive scene 20 years after the HX LE was released. The car had created its own culture and was the prized fighter in the Holden vs Ford debate, so the third coming of the vehicle had big shoes to fill. The first modern Monaro concept was revealed in 1998 at the now debunked Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The VT-Based coupe received so much fanfare that Holden had no choice but to give the people what they wanted. The first release occurred 3 years later in 2001 with the VX Commodore based Monaro CV8 (V2) coming onto the scene in spectacular fashion. The Aussie powerhouse featured a 5.7 L Gen III V8 mated to either a 6 Speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission. The Series 2 model soon debuted at the start of 2003 with a revised dashboard from the VY Commodore, a new wheel design and various colour changes. The CV8-R was a limited edition variant that was available in either a grey or red colour scheme. It wasn’t until the VZ Monaro hit the market in 2004 that the vehicle received revised front and rear bumper assemblies and the infamous double ducted bonnet. Holden knew that the coupes time was nearing closer to an end so the final incarnation of the Monaro was produced, the CV8-Z, and was limited to 1100 units. The CV8-Z featured a sunroof, unique wheels and bold colour choices and was revered by many as a fitting farewell to the Monaro legacy. As soon as Holden announced it was the end of the line of the Monaro, many had hoped, or even wished that it was going to make a comeback with a next model release, however as we now know, with Holden ceasing Aussie manufacturing, this last hurrah of the true Aussie performance coupe will forever hold its place in the history books. What did you think the CV8 did the Monaro name justice? Have you owned one of these fierce rides? Head over to the Rare Spares Facebook page and let us know in the comments!
The Rare lions - Revisiting one of the Rarest GROUP A's of all time 08 November 2016 07:26 Rare Spares General, Rare Spares (0) ShareBack at a time when Australia was serious about muscle cars, a popular beverage company took one of Holden’s most desirable creations at the time, and made it even more special. Here we will take a look at the ultra-exclusive 1991 HSV VN SS GROUP A (TOOHEYS GROUP A) It was the year 1991 and Brocky was back on Holden’s books, driving the VN Group A SS like a bat out of hell. The VN Group A SS was the result of the 500 vehicle requirement for homologation touring and group a cars. The car itself was Holden’s most intimidating yet however it wasn’t until great race sponsors Toohey’s decided to go ahead with the mother of all promotions, sparing dodgy key chains and stubby holders, the beer giant decided to go all out and add their own touch to Holden’s already formidable beast. The Group A VN SS was a truly well designed piece of kit. The engine featured Chev NASCAR conrods among other upgrades and Germanys own ZF supplying the first six speed ever fitted to a Holden. Not to mention Bilstein shocks all round and AP Racing claiming the clutch department with the car being fitted with switchgear, cruise and trip computer from the upmarket Calais. All in all, the beast was putting out a mind boggling 215kw (for the time) and got the midas touch from the crew at Tom Walkinshaw Racing, who placed the car in a British wind tunnel and got to work on its aero package. Tooheys got their hands on chassis number 123 (1000V8) and 161 (2000V8), painting the cars in black and decorating with the appropriate decals , the two Rare Lions were on the cards to one lucky winner who gave the second vehicle to his son in law. Since then time has passed and car 1000V8 has been lovingly brought back to original condition after the current owner found the car used and abused. The whereabouts of 2000V8 remains a mystery, either being hidden away in a shed somewhere or having met its maker. When it comes to Aussie legends, only in Australia could a beer company partner with an automotive powerhouse to produce some of the rarest Group A cars ever. So when it comes to the performance icons of the past, we say pour a cold one and raise a glass! Do you know the whereabouts of the lost unicorn? What did you think when you first laid eyes on the mythical beast? Head over to the comments section on our Facebook page and let us know!
When scrap comes back – The revival of the Datsun 240k 03 November 2016 08:31 Rare Spares General, Rare Spares (0) ShareWhen it comes to cars that flew under the radar, it is hard to think that the humble Datsun 240k would ever become a collector’s item, but like many unique cars of the era, they are growing in appeal and value. The 240k was released in the early 70’s from the growing Japanese Datsun brand and debuted into a market filled with HQ Holden’s, VH Valiant’s and XA Falcon’s. The vehicle was not always considered the best in terms of looks quickly labelled as unattractive by the media, slotting somewhere above the questionable 120Y’s and behind the sleek 240z. The car featured a straight six L24 engine and cost around $5000 at the time, however it was a big call to spend that amount of money on a car that was considered by many to be inferior to its home grown counterparts. Coming in both sedan and coupe variants, the car sold well, although with no performance orientated model, the car never garnered the curb side appeal of a GT Falcon or Holden Monaro. It was seen as nothing more than a little Japanese run around and this image of the car and moving times saw them move into a class that could be considered undesirable. With the boom in technology and performance experienced in the 90’s, the little Datsun had lost much of its unique appeal. The price of scrap metal was soaring, leading many of these unloved cars to be traded in for nothing more than a quick buck, with the rest of the remaining cars living out their days rusting away in the back of paddocks and properties across Australia. It wasn’t until the late 2000’s that demand soon began to outweigh supply. With numbers significantly diminished, the existing examples soon began to catch the eye of enthusiasts whose parents had owned the car or those who had their own experiences with the old Datsun. The once quirky Japanese vehicle had fast become a desirable classic and it didn’t take long before barely salvageable rusted cars were being snatched up from paddocks and sheds across the country. From a car that was once considered worthless to one that is now fetching prices similar to that of cult Aussie classics, it goes to show that it can be hard to predict which car is destined to garner such a passionate following. The 240k has gained more and more respect over time and with its love it or hate it styling the car is always one to stir the pot, but we tip our hat to the humble Datto for adding another piece to our exciting and diverse automotive history. Do you have one of these classics hiding in your shed? What did you think when you first laid eyes on the 240k? Head over the comments section of the Rare Spares Facebook page and let us know!
Man and Machine Continues Partnership With Rare Spares 05 May 2015 12:34 Rare Spares Rare Spares (0) ShareRare Spares are proud to announce the continuation of their support of the popular Man and Machine TV program as major sponsor. Man and Machine is the brainchild of passionate motoring enthusiast and TV presenter Glenn Everitt. A weekly series on the 4ME Network devoted to the car enthusiast, it’s the culmination of Glenn’s almost thirty year involvement in the automotive industry. From classic and muscle cars to modern day icons, Man and Machine is a showcase for everything that’s “fast or powerful and uses an engine to propel it”. Man and Machine often showcases the best of beautiful, restored classic machinery and the enjoyment that Glenn and the guests get out of these machines should provide the motivation to get into the shed and finish off your own project. "The team at Man and Machine is very excited to be involved with Rare Spares for our all new Season three and believe they are a perfect fit with so many passionate car enthusiasts tuning in to Man and Machine every week,” said Presenter Glen Everitt. “From a personal perspective, having spent 25 years with hands on experience in the aftermarket Automotive industry as a qualified technician and actually having used Rare Spares products myself, I have no hesitation whatsoever in providing a genuine unbiased endorsement for such a great range of products that's continually growing on a weekly basis, parts that actually fit and look as they should, in most cases even better than the original that the vehicle was manufactured with.” “From my experience not only do Rare Spares provide outstanding service with a constant pursuit of perfection to provide the very best products but they are an Australian owned company that's growing from strength to strength. For me it's a feel good partnership dealing with such a fantastic organisation and the great people behind it, people that are also passionate car enthusiasts just like me" said Everitt. Combining Glenn’s knowledge, passion and expertise through Man and Machine with Rare Spares, Australia’s foremost restoration parts supplier, guarantees success in any car restoration project. From the smallest repair on a cherished classic to a full blown, ground up rebuild, Rare Spares and Man and Machine make an unbeatable combination. Season three is now underway, you can tune in on Monday nights at 8.30pm on the 4ME network and find links to aired episodes on our Facebook page. Further repeats may also air, so please keep an eye on TV guides if you miss any episodes. Best of all it is Free to Air, so you can sit back and enjoy for free.
Rare Spares Mitchell Becomes Rare Spares Distributor 28 March 2015 02:03 Rare Spares (0) ShareRare Spares is proud to announce Rare Spares Mitchell is now an official distributor of Rare Spares. Rare Spares Mitchell has stocked Rare Spares products for 25 years, servicing Canberra and surrounding regions. Owner/Manager of Rare Spares Mitchell, Laurence Erwin opened the Store in 1990 and together with his wife Rose have a huge combined experience in classic cars and parts. “Customers come from as far away as the coast, and southern NSW for parts. We regularly send parts worldwide including the U.S, Europe and South Africa. We are currently helping out a customer in the US restore a genuine VK Group A Blue Meanie.” said Laurence. As a distributor for Rare Spares, Rare Spares Mitchell will now be able to provide customers an expanded range of Rare Spares products, available directly off the shelf, providing customers an improved shopping experience. “It’s great to now step up and become a distributor for Rare Spares after being a stockist for so many years. The improved range of stock will be fantastic for existing and new customers who can purchase in store or online through http://www.rarespares.net.au/mitchell/ Importantly, after 25 years in the automotive industry Laurence has a strong knowledge of the restoration parts available from Rare Spares to enable restoration of our Aussie Classics. Laurence even owns a classic himself. “I own a HZ wagon and when I have time, I like to tinker with it” To see the team at Rare Spares Mitchell, opening hours are Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm and Saturdays, 8:30am – 1:00pm. The store is located at 17 Kemble Court, Mitchell, ACT, 2911 and can be phoned on (02) 6241 1516. To find out more about Rare Spares and for a full list of Distributors, stockists and resellers across Australia, visit www.rarespares.net.au
The Annual Picnic at Hanging Rock 19 February 2015 02:19 Rare Spares (0) ShareIt may still conjure thoughts of missing school children in the book and movie by the same title, but Picnic at Hanging Rock is synonymous with a picnic of a different kind. An automotive picnic. Run by the Macedon Ranges and District Motor Club, The Annual Picnic at Hanging Rock is primarily a fun day out for vintage, veteran and classic cars, plus motorcycles and trucks that are 25 years and older and has been running now for 28 years. For the 28th edition, over 1500 classic cars and trucks plus 225 bikes entered the event, and another 1520 cars and 20 bikes were in the general public display. It is estimated 7,000 spectators were on hand to enjoy the festivities and celebration of all things classic and automotive. “It was an excellent day with perfect weather. We had a wonderful collection of classic vehicles on display, with strong patronage by enthusiasts and the general public. We hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did” said Event Organiser and Rally Director of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club Graham Williams. “It’s a huge undertaking to put the event on, but we appreciate the support of our volunteers, entrants and spectators, as well as our sponsors including Rare Spares and Shannons.” Rare Spares is proud to support what is a classic community event and had a marquee set-up with a constant stream of people talking to the Rare Spares staff regarding restoration projects and part enquiries for their vehicles. Rare Spares was also involved in giveaways and awards at the event, with promotional models on site during the day handing out flyers to win the Team Biante model car signed by Jason Bright + a $50 gift voucher. Congratulations to Mr M. Pace who was the lucky winner of the promotion. Rare Spares also provided awards to the best ‘Real Street’ and ‘Real Restoration’ machines at the event. The date for next year is already locked in so put it in your diary. Sunday 14th February, 2016.