TTAC Forum Crapwagon ReCrap: Get Shorty, Or Italian, But Not Both

If you haven’t noticed — and judging by the lack of comments, I’m guessing you haven’t — things have been picking up a bit over at the long-dormant TTAC Forum. I’ve been posting a near-daily “Find of the Day” in the Classic and Collector Car forum. I’m trying to highlight the interesting, cool, and weird stuff I find as I tread the crapwagon-infested waters of eBay, craigslist, classified sites, and other forums.

There is plenty to look at. Just this week: A rusty Bronco; an oddly-shortened Chevelle; a ’90s-vintage Alfa Romeo Spider; a Porsche 944S; and a Buick Reatta ragtop.

Today, I happened across this sad-looking Ford Bronco on eBay. Nearly thirty years in a barn will not be kind to any car. At $5,500, though, there might be enough to salvage from this heap.

Early yesterday, I spotted this Chevelle, also on eBay. From my admittedly-limited knowledge of drag racing, I’d think a longer wheelbase would be advantageous. A short wheelbase would be better for autocross. So, explain to me, why?

On Wednesday, Craigslist beckoned with this 944S. The 16 valve, naturally aspirated engine gives performance close to the Turbo, without the maintenance headaches the forced-induction motor seems to require. I want this car.

I’d forgotten that Alfa imported the old Spider to the US through 1993. This one came over as the Miata was hitting the shores. The Alfa has more timeless looks, but the Miata will be easier to keep running. Which reminds me. My ’91 Miata needs to be driven again…

Quite likely the nicest Buick Reatta left in the world, even if the car sits on its original 25-year-old tires. It’s not like the Reatta driving experience induces canyon carving, but this is a serious hazard in an otherwise nice example of a car few even remember existing.

So, come join us in the forums, and tell me what you think of these cars and more!