There was a time that American automobile manufacturers built some of the finest cars in the world. Duesenberg, Lincoln Cadillac, Pierce Arrow, Packard - to name a few, engineered and manufactured some of the best cars the world had ever seen.  “Made in America” meant something; particularly when it came to manufacturing automobiles. Engineering, design, pride, craftsmanship- what happened to these key components?  

American car manufacturers quit building cars, good cars, quite some time ago; though the opportunity to do so has always been available to them.

For what-ever reason or rational, American car companies have been hell-bent on engineering and manufacturing second rate, disposable vehicles and relaying on the American public to keep them in business. “BUY AMERICAN” was the motto; a motto that the American public embraced for years.

There was a point in time however, that the American public had- had enough. They wanted more for their hard earned dollar, they wanted reliability; they wanted value, “Buy American” lost out to value and quality.

It is not as if the “Big Three” could not see this coming. But, rather than looking ahead, planning strategies and engineering competitive products; a conscious decision was made - not to. Let us repeat that - A CONCIOUS DECISION. Who has been making these decisions? We will look into that a bit later.

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To many of us “car guys”, motorcycles may have been our first mode of transportation-they were to us anyhow.

With rising fuel costs and traffic conditions getting worse by the day, motorcycles can be a terrific alternative; particularly in a mild climate like ours here in Southern California.

So, it is no wonder that we again pondered ownership of another BMW two wheeler….it is right about now that we should concern ourselves with having our goodies smashed by our significant others; wielding a rather large wooden mallet….

But hey, It can’t hurt to just look- or can it?

The Cycle World international Motorcycle show is just around the corner. It will be taking over Long Beach December 5th through the 7th at the Long Beach Convention Center. Fuel efficient motorcycles and scooters may be the hot trend this year and for many more years to come. This mind bending show will feature hundreds of the latest bikes and choppers and will also feature stunt shows, demo rides and more….

No-where honey….just goin’ to Starbucks to meet the guys for a few hot ones….won’t be late..last time we used similar words, we rode home on an $18,000 oil filter…

Special Thanks to Shelbi Okumura for the “heads-up”

O.C.C.E

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SOLD!!!

With only 75,294 documented miles from new, this 1954 XK120SE is in extraordinarily sound condition and is a matching numbers car.

This California two owner car has no rust issues, the paint is of excellent quality and has but a few flaws. The interior is in simply superb “as new” condition. The restoration was performed some time back but, the car has seen very little use since. The engine was overhauled just 92 miles ago. The most recent owner acquired the car a few years ago, but, drove it on rare occasion only. The car has been kept in a climate controlled dry environment.

This is a prefect motorcar to be used for touring, a great “driver” if you will, but, the car shows far, far better than just a “driver” Though not a Concours class winning car, the car will show remarkably well, yet can be enjoyed and driven to and from events.

It really is quite difficult to describe this car. The paint is just so good, the interior …..as stated above; like new. The chassis is clean and most certainly rust free.

If you are looking for an XK120, this is a car that really should be considered. We believe the car is priced fairly given its great overall condition and documentation.

Asking $83,500

Contact: Klaus

714-745-0416

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Once in a great while,  an opportunity presents itself to acquire a great piece of automotive history; this is one of those times.

BMW produced the 2002 Turbo for just over one year and in that time manufactured only 1672 cars. The car was never officially sold in the U.S. but, some of these great cars have made it to our shores; this one in particular.

This car was acquired from its Belgian owner a few years ago and brought here to California and is quite possibly the finest orignal and unmolested turbo in the U.S.

Destined to be (if not already) one of the most desirable collector BMW’s on the planet. This is a rare opportunity to acquire the best of the best.

Contact: Klaus

714-745-0416

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SOLD!!!!!!!

This limited production CLK “Black” has just 389 miles!

Finished in White over Black leather the car is rather obviously brand new and in need of a new owner. Offered for sale at a huge savings; the owner simpy has too many cars and this one must go!

Contact: Klaus

714-745-0416

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This last Sunday, history was made in Brazil; BRAVO Mr. Hamilton!!!

At the start of last years Grand Prix season an un-known rookie took the Formula One world by storm. We were convinced after just his first F1 start in Australia last year, that he could win the title his first year out; he missed by just one point. What is perhaps even more impressive; is that he did so- driving on tracks with which he was unfamiliar and against a formidable two time world champion as his team mate…..some Fernando guy.

This season, the truly remarkable did happen. In just his second season as a Formula One pilot, Lewis Hamilton is world champion. Remarkable, simply bloody, remarkable! In all the years that we have been fans of F1 and that has been more than just a few; no-one has come onto the Formula One scene and performed anything near the likes of Mr. H.

We are of the opinion that this years Grand Prix season was actually more difficult for Ol’ Lewis than last season. Penalties were handed to him for “infractions” that seemed- well, suspicious at best. He also had tremendous competition from Mr. Massa, who we must admit, was as deserving of Formula One’s top spot as Lewis Hamilton; Massa simply drove his heart out and even in defeat proved a world champion- a man of character and heart.

One must also recognize the huge talent of the rising young German star, Sebastian Vettel. Given the right equipment next year (rumor has it that he will get it) this kid will give everyone a run for the money……Can Vettel become the new youngest F1 champion in history- a title that Mr. Hamilton now holds? We think so.

There have been many great Grand Prix drivers over the years, the list far too long to go into here, but, we all know who they were. Is Hamilton perhaps the best to ever grace us with this extraordinary talent? Thinking back over the years, not one driver comes to mind who in his first two seasons of Formula One has dominated the sport as overwhelmingly as Lewis Hamilton. This was an earned victory; earned by focus, determination, hard work, dedication, a bit of luck and most certainly the talent that only a handful poses-the talent to drive a race car that incredibly well.

Well done lad, very well done indeed!

O.C.C.E.

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