Few cars have made a more lasting impression on the enthusiast scene than the Chevy Camaro. The ‘69 Camaro was a diamond of engineering and styling that propelled Chevrolet for decades. Old Camaros remain on the road today, so auto enthusiasts will have no trouble finding mint-condition parts for their restoration projects. Kelley Blue Book, http://www.kbb.com/ recently praised the new Camaro in its 2013 Resale Value Awards. http://www.freewaychevrolet.com/ has new Camaros for sale, but restoration junkies can find vintage Camaros on http://www.autotrader.com/ and other used-car outlets.
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Mid-1960s Buick Rivieras feature wide engine bays that provide plenty of room for mechanics to add custom engine components. A jewel of the post-war American auto industry, the Riviera is a beloved model that hot-rod enthusiasts will really enjoy on the road or track. Check out http://www.opgi.com/restoration-parts-catalog-riviera.asp for extensive 1963-’76 Riviera restoration parts. The combination of convenience and appeal makes this classic Buick an obvious choice for a hot-rod restoration.
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An aptly named 1950s coupe known for its distinct body, the Studebaker Golden Hawk is the perfect car for a restorer who appreciates a true classic. The Golden Hawk, with its wings that flared off the trunk, soared down American roads between 1956 and 1958. If you get a chance to restore a Golden Hawk, take it. It may not be as easy to find parts as some of the more well known brands of its day, but plenty of auto enthusiasts resell old Studebaker parts. Visit http://1956goldenhawk.com/ one of many independent outlets that sell Studebaker Golden Hawk cylinders, hoses and fuel sending units, among other parts.
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It’s still around today, but the Dodge Charger made its mark in the late-1960s with its powerful engines and imposing styling. MSN Autos, http://home.autos.msn.com/ declared the ‘69 Dodge Charger one of the “ten greatest muscle cars of all time.” Outfit this classic piece of American muscle with a hot-rodded engine and you’ll be hard pressed to find a faster vehicle on the road or track. Parts, http://www.classicindustries.com/mopar/ and old models are still widely available through auctions and dealerships specializing in vintage and collectible automobiles.
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Rick Miller has been restoring old cars since he first learned how to turn a wrench. His pride and joy is a highly modified ‘66 Mustang.