The Good Oil

9 Years On and Still Looking Futuristic

BMW’s first EV was launched in 2013 and despite being out of production for two years now, the i3 still stacks up as one of the best in its class today. It’s a small car by today’s standards but is roomy and has futuristic modern styling. Older examples are still consistently hitting their range targets and they have a pretty good reliability reputation. The BMW i3 might just be a canny used EV buy. Turners Hamilton has this very low mileage example available to buy now. Read on...
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News Reviews

Over 1.2 Million Kilometres!

This 1990 Japanese imported Toyota Hiace minibus has racked up 1,236,560 kilometres, the vast majority of those kms in NZ! That’s the equivalent of going to the moon and back…3 TIMES! Or 30 times around Earth’s equator. It still runs and drives and has a current WOF and rego. I guess it had to be an old Toyota, and it could be your old Toyota next. Read on...
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News Reviews

Rockstarlet

People argue all the time over how old a car needs to be before becoming a classic. But a simple rule could be that it’s any car that needs a WOF every six months, which just happens to be 25 years and older. It may make some readers feel positively ancient, but this 1999 Toyota Starlet Glanza S is considered a classic under the rule that I just made up, and you can buy it right now. Read on...
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News Reviews

One for the Drivers

When the Toyota 86 was released in New Zealand in 2012 it caused quite a stir. There were limited numbers and all were spoken for before they had even arrived. It wasn’t particularly rapid but it was a focused drivers car and it was a classic before it had even left the showroom. Read on...
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News Reviews

Feisty Fiat

Fiat’s modern take on the original 500 is a cute little commuter car, somewhat in keeping with its great grand dad. But there’s also a fast Abarth version, also in keeping with its ancestor, and despite its spritely performance, modern tech and safety features it is also cheaper than buying one of the old timers. This 2014 500 Abarth, with its 133hp turbocharged 1.4L engine, reading just 41370km, has an auction estimate of just $14,200 - $15,000. That’s less than a quarter of what you’d have to pay for a 60s example. Read on...
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News Reviews

Tougher than an Overcooked Steak

If you need a car for your daily commute then this Jeep Wrangler Unlimited will be perfect for you... if your commute involves war zones, mountains, or boulder strewn muddy fields. It will also be perfect for the school run if the school is located on top of a mountain with no road access. This 2016 NZ new example is available now. Read on...
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News Reviews

Le Big Bang For Your Buck

When you mention Renault to many NZ drivers you, perhaps ironically, get a very Gallic shrug of the shoulders or a dismissive wave of the hands. This is odd because when it comes to hot hatches Renault has got form, seriously good form. So while others are stumping up big dollars for hot Golfs or Focuses the Renault Megane RS can be picked up for a snip. Read on...
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News Reviews

Up! and Away

Small, sporty cars are the most fun. They may not be the fastest, most comfortable or quietest, but they bring the joy to driving. An SUV may give you comfort and a sense of security but it won’t be as much of a hoot over a windy country road as a little car like this 2018 Volkswagen Up! Gti. And with an auction estimate of $5000 - $7000 you could argue that it’s cheap fun, too. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Z you Didn’t Know You Needed

Everyone remembers the Datsun 240Z, the Japanese E-Type with prices to match. Twenty years ago a really nice 240Z could be bought for under $20k and we all thought they were outrageously expensive then. Well try buying one now. So does this bode well for the 240z’s younger, bigger boned, Cousin? This very original survivor is available at Turners Hamilton. Read on...
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News Reviews

Supercharged Engine, Supercharged Size

If your name is Bobby-Joe, Jim-Bob or Darlene, you love Nascar and own more than one gun, then this 1999 Chevrolet Silverado could be just what you’re looking for. But, to be fair, whilst trucks like this used to seem huge in NZ, now they are merely very big compared to the modern Ranger and Hilux utes that grace our roads today. This one has spent it’s life in NZ and is supercharged. Read on...
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Rolling in Four Leaf Clover

Some people will never get their heads around Alfas and they’ll be sure to let you know about it at every opportunity. Some of the criticism is fair but much of it has been gleaned from Dave at the pub who’s brother’s mate’s dad had one in the 70s and it went rusty. And whilst many of the gripes about Alfa’s relate to cars from decades ago, and will have no bearing on the this 2015 Giulietta QV it’s probably best not to ask Dave for buying advice on this one. Read on...
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Choices, Choices, Manual or Auto?

The cheapest way into a Porsche sports car with the engine behind you has long been the Boxster. And these days, as 911s get further from reach for most of us, it makes even more sense to give the Boxster a go. Despite the deriding comments from those that see them as a poseurs car, it’s very hard to find a bad review from anyone who’s owned or driven one. Turners’ Otahuhu branch has two NZ new examples in the same auction next week – one manual, one auto – and both are pretty tempting. Read on...
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Whiteware on Wheels

Cars are often used as status symbols, or a “personality” extension. Maybe they have to be some-what practical but, above all, they must look good, be comfortable and, according to the ads, take you places that no other car can. Or there’s the Toyota Probox, a car that will take you to the places you need to go with no admiring glances, minimal comfort and zero fanfare. It’s whiteware on wheels. It says “I need to carry stuff and my personality requires no extension”. Sound like you? Read on...
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Big Engine, Little Car - The Old Trick That Never Gets Old

Putting a big engine in a little car is not a new trick but it is a good trick. The 135i dispensed with the 4 pot engines usually found in the 1 series and squeezed in a 300hp twin turbo straight six and sent all the grunt to the rear wheels. It’s a trick that never gets old and it’s not all that expensive either. This low mileage example at Turners Christchurch provides plenty of bang for buck. Read on...
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Huge Luxury

It’s imposing, luxurious and has a boot big enough to carry several bodies. The Lincoln Continental was a big statement, whether you were a mob boss or a US President, and the swankiest of all was the Town Car. The crime spec black paint certainly conjures images of well dressed men eating spaghetti and fitting concrete boots to once loyal soldiers, but these days an annual visit to Beach Hop is probably more likely. Turners Hamilton are auctioning this sinister example. Read on...
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Celestial Body

The Mitsubishi Celeste is one of those cars that today looks really pretty from any angle, and yet its brief period in the sun when new was followed by years of indifference. Few cared about the Celeste, it was just something the lady down the street drove when you were a kid. And like most cars from this era, rust took an abysmal toll. Luckily, some owners really loved their Celestes and that’s why this stunning example survives today. And you can bid to buy it. Read on...
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A Mustang on a Budget

The fourth generation Ford Mustang is perhaps not the prettiest or sought after of the famous pony car’s iterations. And this one is plunged further down the pecking order by being the base model with a V6 and auto box. But all of this is reflected in the price, and Mustang prices are seldom as attractive as the auction estimate of this one at Turners Hamilton. Read on...
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The British Mustang

It may seem obvious now but the Ford Capri was indeed designed to be the European Mustang and was designed by Mustang designer Phillip T Clark. It’s a fact that only surfaced in recent years and, like the famous American Pony car, it was a big success. This Mk2 model has a later 2.8 injected Cologne V6 with 5 speed manual gearbox. So if you fancy the car favoured by seventies cop shows, then check this one out at Turners Christchurch. Read on...
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When Mercedes Were Solid

The Mercedes 190E, or baby Benz, has aged well and makes for a great entry level modern classic. They are comfortable, superbly built and reliable (if properly serviced). They also project just a little bit of old school class – an understated elegance that has improved with age. But the wee Merc still seems overlooked, and as such, good ones remain affordable. Like this 1992 model with the excellent 2.3L 4 cylinder engine that is being auctioned with a $1 reserve. Read on...
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A Sting in the Tail

A few short years ago Korean brands were looked down on by car buyers who saw them as inferior. And, to be fair, who can forget the Daewoo Nubira or the Hyundai Pony? But in recent years brands like Kia and Hyundai have skilfully turned around perceptions by building decent, if not overly exciting, cars. And then Kia got cocky and took on the Europeans with the Stinger. How did they do? Pretty well, actually. Read on...
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Weekend Golf

The Volkswagen Golf had the unenviable task of replacing the Beetle, a car that had sold squillions around the world and was much loved. Well, the Golf succeeded and is still a big seller today. But the Mk1 Golf is a rare thing to see these days, and Turners Christchurch have this NZ new Mk1 Cabriolet with low kilometres that is ripe for a minor makeover to be ready for Summer. Read on...
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Beauty Over Brawn

The Italian beauty that could’ve been so much more but still delivers a knockout blow in the looks department. The Alfa Romeo Brera may have been watered down from its original concept but it still retains it’s drop-dead gorgeousness. And instead of being a very limited slice of exotica afforded only by the most wealthy (which is what it could’ve been) it’s accessible and affordable to many. This example is for sale right now at Turners Tauranga. Read on...
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Understated Retro Charm

This Granddad spec 1982 Mitsubishi Sigma has developed a charm that it may have lacked in its heyday. All that beige upholstery and brown plastic went through a period of being deeply unpopular. But what was once sarcastically described as poo brown has now very definitely become chocolate brown in the eyes of many. If you see more Cadbury than Cackbury then this low mileage Sigma could be a mouth watering prospect. Read on...
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Madness on Three Wheels

So you want to be noticed whilst experiencing wind in the hair motoring on three wheels with a 5.7 litre V8 between your legs? Well you’re in luck as Turners has the vehicle you’re looking for, and it’s road legal and ready to ride/drive. Just bring a helmet, a packet of brave pills and fresh undies. Read on...
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A Sporty Hybrid? - Why Not?

So you find the regular Nissan Note E-Power a bit bland? Well they also do a Nismo edition, and it’s a blast to drive. Unlike most hybrid vehicles, the Nissan Note e-Power is the perfect compromise for those wanting the EV driving experience without the need to plug in. And the fact that it doesn’t plug-in means it’s exempt from the recently introduced EV/Hybrid road user charges. But can it really be a driver’s car? Well yes, actually. Read on...
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Peak BMW?

It’s considered by many to be peak BMW 3 series and in its day the E46 was highly regarded. With the E30 well and truly in classic territory, with prices to match, maybe the E46 will be the next classic 3 series, especially if it’s a wagon with a big 6 under the bonnet (*of course the M3 is already a classic). Like this Kiwi new 328i Touring with a temptingly low auction estimate. Read on...
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The Champion of Africa

When I first saw the manufacture date of this South African Datsun 1400 I was surprised they were still making them in 1990. Turns out they didn’t stop making them until 2008, capping off a 37 year production run. The cheap and cheerful little Bakkie is no longer all that cheap, now it has achieved cult status, and this one has been quite tastefully modified. And it could be yours. Read on...
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Ford Cortina GT

Another desirable old Ford comes out of the woodwork to be auctioned at Turners Palmerston North, and this time it’s a Cortina, a MK2 GT no less. Now, there will doubtless be talk of the number of doors and whether it’s a real GT etc. So, to be clear, the GT came with 2 and 4 doors and the chassis code confirms this car was built in Dagenham in 1966 as a 4 door GT with the 1500 engine as the 1600 was not introduced until 1967. With it’s credentials established, maybe you want to buy it? Read on...
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Your Next New Car?

New cars are expensive, with electric ones even more so. But what about a nearly new electric car at around the price of a new Suzuki Swift? This 2023 GWM Ora is a full EV with just 665kms on the clock with the balance of its 5 year, 150,000km mechanical and 8 year, unlimited kms battery warrantees. The auction estimate is $23,000 - $27,000, which is pretty good when you consider the RRP is $47,995. Could this be your next new(ish) car? Read on...
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Two Exotics, Two Different Budgets

A few years ago these two exotic sports cars were priced quite similarly on the used market. The Porsche 996 was unloved by the purists and as a result it became the “affordable 911”. The Mercedes 350 SLK looked more aggressive than its predecessor and journos seemed to really like it. Today, the 996 may still be the affordable 911 without being cheap, but the Merc is actually affordable. These two examples at Turners might appeal to similar buyers on very different budgets. Read on...
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The Very First HSV

Holden Special Vehicles, or HSV, was the performance division of Holden, and many great models have received the HSV magic over the years. But the very first HSV model was the 1988 Walkinshaw Racing VL Commodore Group A homologation special. A total of 750 road going cars were sold, all in Panorama Silver, after Mt Panorama. So, a super rare car you thought you could never own. Well now you can, as this genuine NZ new example is being sold by Turners Christchurch. Read on...
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The Mighty Mark 1 Escort

The Ford Escort Mk1 is loved by thousands and it has a special connection to New Zealanders as it was part of the life blood of our long dead car assembly industry. NZ was one of only a handful of countries that assembled them and we bought them by the thousands. We loved them then and we really love them now. However, most have been loved to death so those that remain have become highly desirable, like this 1974 1300GT at Turners Christchurch. Read on...
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BMW's First, and Possibly Best, EV

BMW’s first EV was launched in 2013 and despite being out of production for two years, the i3 still stacks up as one of the best in its class today. It’s a small car by today’s standards but is roomy and has thoroughly interesting modern styling. Older examples are still consistently hitting their range targets and they have a pretty good reliability reputation. The BMW i3 might just be a canny used EV buy. Turners Westgate has this one coming up for auction. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

A Proper 4x4 for Posh People

The Defender has long been the go-to vehicle to make posh people look more rugged. But make no mistake, this is one tough beast from a time when the Defender was a stripped back, no nonsense, work truck. The new Defender is actually posh. It’s all modern and flash and it probably doesn’t even leak oil like it’s supposed to. And costs around $150k. Turners North Shore has this one that could be yours. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Theory of Evo-lution

Mitsubishi’s theory of evolution was simple; take a standard model Lancer and turn it into a blisteringly fast weapon and keep updating it. The first Lancer Evo was released in 1992 and ten evolutions and loads of motorsport success later the Evo X was the final version. While it may have fully evolved and is no longer built, Turners Wellington has a nice example so you don’t have to miss out. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

A Sporty Hybrid? - Why Not?

So you find the regular Nissan Note E-Power a bit bland? Well they also do a Nismo edition, and it’s a blast to drive. Unlike most hybrid vehicles, the Nissan Note e-Power is the perfect compromise for those wanting the EV driving experience without the need to plug in. But can it really be a driver’s car? Well yes, actually. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

A Mercedes That's All Klasse

If you were very successful and wealthy in 1972 you probably had your heart set on a luxury car. A Rolls Royce was maybe out of your range, or perhaps a bit ‘old money’ for your taste. Indeed, what you really wanted was the Mercedes that was the forerunner to the famous S-Class line, the W108/109. And if funds could be stretched you really wanted the 3.5L V8 option. It said to the world you had class and taste. Over 50 years later this 280SE V8 still projects good taste and is perhaps more classy than ‘class’. And it could be yours. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

It's Almost an Aston

Look, sure, it’s a tiny Toyota with a tiny engine at Turners Timaru, but it’s also, basically, an Aston Martin. Will your neighbours even know the difference when they see it parked in your drive? Will they think you’ve won the lottery? Well probably not. But Aston Martin did make a version of the Toyota iQ and it didn’t go well. But why did they do it in the first place? Hint: it’s a bit cynical. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

The Everyman Van

The fourth generation Toyota Hiace was such a popular van in NZ during its 15 year production. Most came with little to no comfort options, drove okay, and were likely to be lethal in a crash. But it was bomb proof (if not always rust proof), dependable, and didn’t depreciate like most cars. But when was the last time you saw one with under 100,000kms on the odo? Well Turners Tauranga has one and it’s for sale now. Read on...
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Reviews

A BMW Worthy of Resurrection

It’s one of the most popular modern classics and certain versions are very highly prized. The BMW E30 comes in a myriad of specifications, starting with the 316i sedan all the way to the M3. They are all popular but the difference between the bottom to the top is significant, and is the reason why this car will likely be saved. This NZ new M325i has had a whoopsy to its front end and has been written off and deregistered. Will it be saved? I think so. And I imagine the auction will be a competitive affair. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

British Cool or American Muscle?

It may seem obvious now but the Ford Capri was indeed designed to be the European Mustang and was designed by Mustang designer Phillip T Clark. Like the famous American Pony car, it was a big success, but it didn’t last as long as the Mustang which is still made today. Both models have their fans and both of these cars are being auctioned at Turners Christchurch. Would you choose the retro car favoured by seventies UK cop shows or the muscle of this Roush edition US Mustang? Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

A Very Important Honda

Most people aren’t familiar with Honda’s first generation Insight, which is hardly surprising. It was a sort of real world ‘test of concept’ car, built in small numbers and mostly sold in America. But the Insight is a significant car, one built out of engineering obsession – to build the world’s most fuel efficient car. And they succeeded. And a rare example has come to auction at Turners Wellington. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

Olden Day Holden

It may be 32 years old but this 1991 Holden Commodore Exec has travelled a mere 61,000kms from new, in the hands of, evidently, two careful owners. And it’s not one of the NZ-only poverty spec 4 cylinder examples that were assembled in Trentham. Holdens had been assembled in Trentham since 1967 but that plant was closed in November 1990. So this would’ve been one of the first Fully Aussie Assembled rep-spec VNs to land on our shores, complete with the 3.8 V6 and a 5 speed manual gearbox. And you can bid on it. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

A Proper Classic Hilux

The Toyota Hilux is an international phenomenon, used by everyone from farmers and tradies to accountants and despot dictators. But since the Barry Crump and ‘bugger’ ads from the 80s and 90s NZ has felt a special bond with Toyota’s bomb-proof workhorse. Now the earlier survivors are taking on cult classic status. Like this one. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

British Muscle

Not quite as reliable as a BMW or as prestige as a Jaguar in its day, the Rover SD1, however, was available with a V8. It did well in motorsport and the British police liked them, but as they got older they were maybe seen as a bit of an old man’s car. Before we knew it SD1 was virtually extinct on our roads and now they are rare and kinda cool. And Turners has this one to be Auctioned. Read on...
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News Reviews

Hot Honda

When the clocks struck midnight on the 1st January 2000 many were expecting the world to end, or at very least their microwave to explode. When none of these things happened, some people – disappointed with the anti-climax – were looking for something else to alter their universe and the good people at Honda obliged with the new, and frighteningly quick, S2000 roadster. A classic was born. Read on...
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News Reviews

Flogging a Dead hearse

It’s a hearse and a Ford Falcon station wagon. This may be a case of flogging a dead hearse. Although, unlike it’s many back seat passengers, this Falcon is not dead, as a model it was sent to the farm years ago. This has created a problem for undertakers as a Ford Ranger would require some alterations to both coffin and its contents. In any case, this “survivor” hearse is up for auction. Is it haunted? Wouldn’t that be fun. Read on...
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News Reviews

Is it a Motorcycle or is it a Car?

It’s more motorcycle than car, but you can ride it on a car license. It steers more like a car, but has handlebars. It’s safer than a motorcycle, but offers less protection than a car. It is more a motorcycling experience without quite the spectre of death around each corner that you get on two wheels. It’s the Can Am Ryker 600 and it’s surprisingly affordable fun. Check out this one at Turners Hamilton. Read on...
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News Reviews

Corrrrr Vette

The eighties were the era of stone wash denim, Ocean Pacific tank tops, poodle hair and digital dashboards, and the fourth generation C4 Corvette fits in with this era perfectly. It couldn’t be any more eighties if the stereo only played ‘Hot for Teacher’ by Van Halen on repeat. This one is for sale at Turners Christchurch at a very 1980s price. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

Toasted Imp

This 1969 Sunbeam Imp caught fire and its future is uncertain. A few years ago it would’ve almost certainly been scrapped, but these, now rare, little British curiosities are well worth saving. The Imp is not just a cutie though, it’s quite a little performer, winning the British Touring Car Championship 3 years running. But this one needs your help and it just might be the rewarding project you’ve been looking for. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions

Big Engine, Little Car – The Old Trick that Never Gets Old

Putting a big engine in a little car is not a new trick but it is a good trick. The 135i dispensed with the 4 pot engines usually found in the 1 series and squeezed in a 300hp twin turbo straight six and sent all the grunt to the rear wheels. It’s a trick that never gets old and it’s not all that expensive either. Read on...
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News Reviews

An EV Experience without Range Anxiety

Why buy a regular, non-hybrid, petrol hatchback when you can have one of these really well priced hybrids that also qualify for the Clean Car Discount? Especially as 91 is over $3 and climbing. Unlike most hybrid vehicles, the Nissan Note e-Power does it differently and is the perfect compromise for those wanting the EV driving experience without the need to plug in. So how does it do it? Read on...
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News Reviews

Panda Cub

The headline with Fiat’s TwinAir Panda is ‘frugality’ but there’s so much more to this stylish Italian city car. With Petrol prices soaring past $3 with plenty of upward momentum, the opportunity to buy a two cylinder, 875cc Fiat is pretty timely. And this clever Panda is not expensive either, in fact it could be positively cheap. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Greatest BMW 5-Series?

The E39 generation 5 series is considered by many to be the greatest 5 series of all time. The newest E39s are now 20yo, but still look fresh and are a joy to drive. The latest 5 series might have all the up to date tech, a $200k price tag and a large serious looking grill, but it’s not the greatest 5 series. That accolade goes to the E39, which can also be bought for peanuts. Like this 2 owner, NZ new 525i with just 91,700kms on the clock. Read on...
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News Reviews

Whopper Wagon

If the Fairmont featured last week was the Sales exec’s car of choice then the Falcon wagon was the family choice – the family taxi. It’s huge, you could almost live in it, and these days it’s pretty rare, especially in this condition. It has had just two owners from new, the most recent since 1985, and is ready to drive away. This survivor is being auctioned online right now. Is it big enough for you? Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

The 80s Middle-Manager Hero Car

The clothing may not be fashionable but the car that so many middle-managers of the 80s drove, certainly is. Ford’s XF Fairmont told those taking notice that you had made it. You were the northern regional accounts manager for an insurance company and the Fairmont was letting everyone know it. This restored, low mileage survivor is being auctioned online by Turners Palmerston North. Read on...
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News Reviews

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so while some will see the Mitsuoka Le Seyde as an ugly duckling, others will see a fabulous swan. Opinions will be divided, and probably not down the middle, but as only 500 of these “striking” cars were built it doesn’t really matter if the fanbase is limited. Turn up anywhere in this car and you will be noticed – a truly terrifying thought for some, but to others it’s the very point of existence. If you see a swan then you’re in luck. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Practical Future Classic?

Some of you will remember when the first generation Subaru Legacy GT started arriving on our shores from Japan as used imports and being eagerly snapped up by excited buyers. They were fast and had rallying pedigree. They then got flogged, cam belts went unchanged and the ranks were quickly depleted. Good ones today are rare, which is reflected in values. So this 2001, well cared for manual GT wagon could be a bargain. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Fiesta has Taken a Long Siesta

It was one of Ford’s greatest successes and one that NZers didn’t get to taste for a long time due to the decision to give us the insipid Mazda based Festiva instead. Now, having sold over 20 million of them, Ford is giving the Fiesta a siesta, the sort you don’t ever wake from. So let’s take a look at the car that was designed by Italians and Germans, approved by the Americans, with a Spanish name and adored by the British. Read on...
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News Reviews

Summer is coming

It might be hard to believe right now, but summer is coming, admittedly like a pin prick of light at the end of a very long tunnel. And as luck would have it, Turners Napier have just the car to make that pin prick of light just a little brighter. It’s a 2 owner, NZ new, 6 speed manual Mazda MX5 in a great colour. And it’s available right now. Read on...
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News Reviews

From Cringe to Cool

There was a time (1970s) when the worst car your parents could buy was a Skoda. It had the driveway appeal of leprosy, and being dropped at school in one pretty much paved the way for a life of being ostracised. Today, Skoda is a brand that carries a hint of Euro snob value, and even the once cringe inducing 70s cars are sought after. Turners has a fleet of 2017 Skoda Fabia hatchbacks with full service history and low kms to sell, and your kids won’t hate you for buying one. Read on...
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News Reviews

An Affordable Sporty Hybrid

24 years ago, as Toyota launched the clever but conventional looking Prius, Honda launched the amazing first generation Insight. The Insight was the most fuel-efficient mass-produced car in the world and also looked like the future. We said COOL! But actually really wanted conventional so the Prius became the success and Honda returned to the drawing board. But Honda couldn’t let go of the dream of a sleek and sporty hybrid and gave us the CR-Z and we went WOW! and bought another Prius. But Honda’s misstep is still a cool looking thing today, like this Mugen kitted one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Iconic Porsche Needs Your Help

Any Porsche 993 is worth saving but this badly damaged RWB modified example is 1 of 1 and has multiple scale models paying tribute to it. It’s actually really famous, and, like all RWB Porsches, is a true statement piece that will split opinions. RWB cars are rare, wild and highly coveted by many. So what is RWB, what’s the deal with the SuperNine edition and how can you buy it at Turners? Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions

For the Perfect English Picnic

It’s as British as warm beer and drizzle and was optimistically fitted with a convertible roof, presumably in case you planned driving it to a sunnier country. This 1955 Morris Minor Convertible tourer appears to be in great condition and is being auctioned at Turners New Plymouth next week. And even I know that the estimate of $5000-$6000 would be a bargain if you were lucky enough to snag it for that. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Porsche that Saved Porsche

The cheapest way into a Porsche sports car with the engine behind you has long been the Boxster. And these days, as 911s get further from reach for most of us, it makes even more sense to give the Boxster a go. Despite the sneering comments from those that see them as a poseur’s car, it’s very hard to find a bad review from anyone who’s owned or driven one. And at an estimated $30k for this NZ new, 2011 example with low kms, it’s a pretty tempting proposition. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Pride of South Africa

When I first saw the manufacture date of this South African Datsun 1400 I was surprised they were still making them in 1990. Turns out they didn’t stop making them until 2008, capping off a 37-year production run. The cheap and cheerful little bakkie is no longer all that cheap, now it has achieved cult status, and this one has been quite tastefully modified. And it could be yours. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Fiat and the Fashion Icon

It’s fair to assume that a collaboration between Fiat and Gucci isn’t going to produce a performance version of the distinctive 500. But what you do get is the style version, and it’s a pretty exclusive version, too. I’ve never seen one here before but one has surfaced at Turners and it could be yours, darling. Read on...
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News Reviews

Oh La La

Okay, so it’s a Renault and it’s a Megane, the standard version of which is not as spicy as that rear end might promise. But the Megane RS 225 sure does bring the spice. It’s fast, handles brilliantly and the bang for buck ratio is still pretty good, despite prices for these edging steadily northwards over the past couple of years. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Little Truck That Could

If some people say the modern crop of aggressive looking 4WD utes are compensating for their drivers’ deficiencies in other areas, what does a 660cc pink Daihatsu Hijet truck with fake exhaust stacks, air horns and called Dave, say about its driver? Well it probably says they have a massive sense of humour. Sound like you? Read on...
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News Reviews

Fast Fiat

Fiat’s modern take on the original 500 is a cute little commuter car, somewhat in keeping with its great granddad. But there’s also a fast Abarth version, also in keeping with its ancestor, and despite its spritely performance, modern tech and safety features it is also cheaper than buying one of the old timers. This 2021 595 Competizione, with its 132kw turbocharged 1.4L engine, reading just 1325km, has an auction estimate of just $32,000-$34,000. That’s less than half what you’d have to pay for a 60s example. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Death of the Station-Wagon

Remember when pretty much every bread and butter car manufacturer had at least one station wagon in their headline range? There was the commodore for the sales rep, the Falcon for the funeral director, the Mondeo, Camry etc. And even luxury brands like Alfa Romeo and Mercedes did wagons. These days they mainly exist in the margins. So what happened and will we have to be transported to funeral homes in a Ute in future? Read on...
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News Reviews

Ruggedly Handsome

The fact that classic Land Rover prices have risen so sharply over recent years is testament to the nostalgia for tough, no-nonsense discomfort, noise and oil and diesel smells. Old Land Rovers are the antithesis of the modern Ute or SUV, a quality celebrated by many, if mainly only on weekends. It’s a ruggedly handsome automotive icon, a sort of Sylvester Stallone of the car world. This very clean 1975 example looks fit for the red carpet and is being auctioned at Turners Christchurch. Read on...
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News Reviews

Stiff Upper Lip and a Cup of Tea

It was possibly not one Pinifarina’s most exotic designs but the Wolseley 6/99 is a handsome car in a stout British sort of way and the real wood and leather is of a quality you won’t find in many cars today. And for all its buttoned up looks, at its heart is the straight six from the Austin Healy 3000 making it an interesting choice for the distinguished driver with a love of 50s/60s British culture. This very straight example is being auctioned with a $1 reserve. Read on...
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News Reviews

Ultimate Modern Classic

Before most cars become collectible they first go through a long period of depreciation followed by a stint in the doldrums when servicing and repairs become uneconomical. Then, after most have been scrapped, they might go through a revival spurred on by nostalgic ex-owners wanting to relive their youth. But for some cars, collectible status comes sooner, much sooner. Like this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Good Ol’ Boy

The Ford F-series trucks are as American as Cheez Whiz and Twinkies. But unlike day-glo processed cheese and fake cream sponge fingers the F Series is a useful and tough workhorse (although about as good for the planet as those confections are for your body). And being from 1980s USA it’s big, thirsty and not all that fast. However, while it may be as common as an AK47 at a Texan BBQ State-side, the big Ford is a fairly uncommon sight in NZ and therefore quite desirable. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Cup of Tea and a spot of Cricket

The MGB is more Sunday jaunt in the country than high energy blast through a mountain pass of many of its contemporaries – think more ‘cup of tea and cricket’ than ‘beer and a fight’. But the MGB is very pretty, and fun, with a large following and great parts availability. In many ways it’s the perfect classic and this one is available at Turners Tauranga right now. Read on...
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Budget Automotive Exotica

Is the Audi TT a bargain ‘future classic’ or is it style over substance? It was one of those rare cars that went from an exciting motor show concept car to a production car, virtually unchanged. It’s beautiful from any angle but do its humble underpinnings detract from its exotic looks? This really tidy 1st generation convertible example is just $10,990 making it worth it just for the looks alone. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Valiant Effort

Every dog has its day, which is usually preceded by a spell in the wilderness. At its lowest point in the 80s the Valiant, along with many other big Aussie cars of the 70s, was on the skids. They were a relic of the past, driven only by young mulleted bogans who bought them cheap and drove them hard. Needless to say good ones, like this one, are now highly sought after. Read on...
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News Reviews

Cheaper than an Old One

The newer Fiat 500 is bigger, more powerful, more refined, safer and faster than the original Bambina. But this one owner, Manual, 2009 Lounge model has a price expectation less than half of a scruffy vintage one. It’s NZ new with low kilometres and it’s being auctioned later this month. Read on...
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News Reviews

Rare Aussie Escort RS

I know what you’re thinking; a four door RS2000 Escort? That can’t be right, can it? And it is true that the European RS2000 was available only as a two door. But our Aussie friends did things a bit different and made it available with more doors. And that’s not where the differences end. This rare fast Ford is being auctioned by Turners Hamilton. Read on...
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News Reviews

Kiwi New STi

Most older Subaru WRXs have now gone through around 17 owners, 12 of which making the bold assumption that they were better engineers than those at Subaru Tecnica International and changed everything making them effectively worse and then steadfastly refusing to give them even the most basic service. So original, well serviced examples are getting rare and those are the ones everyone now wants. Like this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Sports Car for the People

It’s possible to argue that one of the most affordable sports cars is also one of the very best. That’s the case with the first-generation Mazda MX5. It may not be all that fast or luxurious but it’s brilliant design, light weight nimbleness and the joyful nature of its driving prowess make it one of the true greats. And it’s got pop-up headlights. This low mileage example in Dunedin is being auctioned next week. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Summer Holiday Fun

Something particularly well suited to mud might seem like an odd choice for some summer fun but that’s the sort of summer many of us are experiencing at the moment. So in a case of “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” this Can-Am Maverick X3 RS 4WD ATV might just be the perfect toy for the summer. Read on...
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News Reviews

Le Big Bang For Your Buck

When you mention Renault to many NZ drivers you, perhaps ironically, get a very Gallic shrug of the shoulders or a dismissive wave of the hands. This is odd because when it comes to hot hatches Renault has got form, seriously good form. So, while others are stumping up big dollars for hot Golfs or Focuses the Renault Megane RS can be picked up for a snip. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Real World Driver's Car

When the Toyota 86 was released in New Zealand in 2012 it caused quite a stir. There were limited numbers and all were spoken for before they had even arrived. It wasn’t particularly rapid but it was a focused driver's car and it was seen as a future classic before it had even left the showroom. Read on...
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News Reviews

Old Cat With Some Lives Left

As a kid obsessed with cars I remember thinking the XJS was the most beautiful car ever and vowed to one day own one. Unfortunately that dream, along with others of the time (drinking Fanta with Farrah Fawcett and changing my name to Steve Austin), were never been fulfilled. You see, it took a special type of person to own an XJS – a sharp dresser with deep pockets, two attributes I never had. Today you still need moderately deep pockets and at least a hint of sartorial elegance to enter the world of Jaguar XJS ownership. But it’s more attainable than it’s ever been, especially if it needs a bit of love. Read on...
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News Reviews

Top of the Class

Whether you want the wind in your hair and all the attention that comes with driving a red Porsche 911 Turbo cabriolet, or a luxury Italian grand tourer that will set you apart from all the BMW 3 series drivers, one of these could be for you. The Porsche will cost you an arm and a leg while the Alfa will cost you just a very reasonable arm OR a leg. Both are class acts but which would you choose? Read on...
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News Reviews

Fire Sale

Turners Dunedin are having a fire sale of sorts. Last week we covered the very tempting ‘76 Landcruiser smokechaser and it seems vintage fire engines are a bit like buses – you don’t see one for ages and then two arrive. And this 1954 series 1 Land Rover, known as “Little Flick” by his buddies, is just as hot as the previously featured Toyota, maybe even hotter. Read on...
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News Reviews

FJ Fire Truck

Toyota J series Landcruiser prices have become wince inducing in recent times, possibly because good, rust free examples are hard to find and restoration costs are frightening. So when an incredibly low mileage one shows up dressed as a fire engine it’s time to put on your brave pants and bid like a boss. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

The Fiesta is Taking a Long Siesta

It’s one of Ford’s greatest successes and one that NZers didn’t get to taste for a long time due to the decision to give us the insipid Mazda based Festiva instead. Now, having sold over 20 million of them, Ford is giving the Fiesta a siesta, the sort you don’t ever wake from. So let’s take a look at the car that was designed by Italians and Germans, approved by the Americans, with a Spanish name and adored by the British. Read on...
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News Reviews

It’s Almost an Aston

Look, sure, it’s a tiny Toyota with a tiny engine at Turners Porirua, but it’s also, basically, an Aston Martin. Will your neighbours even know the difference when they see it parked in your drive? Will they think you’ve won the lottery? Well probably not. But Aston Martin did make a version of the Toyota iQ and it didn’t go well. Read on...
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News Reviews

If it’s Rockin’ Don’t Bother Knockin’

The “if it’s rockin’ don’t bother knockin’” bumper sticker is missing but otherwise this 1986 Ford Econoline is a perfect slice of 80s Americana that has found its way to NZ. If your name’s Bubba or Darlene, you like V8s, camping and shootin’ snowflakes then y’all need to check this out. It’s being auctioned at Turners Palmerston North next week. Read on...
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News Reviews

Rare and Capable Isuzu

Maybe you’ve seen an Isuzu VehiCROSS before, maybe you haven’t, but they sure are a rare thing. And for all its rarity and slightly oddball looks it’s a very capable on-road/off-road vehicle with competition pedigree. So what’s the story behind the VehiCROSS and why should you buy this one at Turners Hamilton? Read on...
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News Reviews

Commodore Swansong

With the Commodore making its swansong at the Bathurst 1000 last weekend it’s maybe a good time to remember that the Commodore is still with us in “used” form. And maybe, just maybe it’s a good time to climb into the market while they are still affordable, regardless of your budget. Both of these “V8 Supercars” era cars will always hold a place in the hearts of trans-tasman petrolheads (even some Ford fans) and even the ones that aren’t V8s. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Classic Aussie Wagon

To many it’s just a scruffy old Holden like the one uncle Gary used to have. But to others it’s a symbol of better times when cars had no air conditioning, rust was a thing and stubbies were acceptable summer attire for blokes. Reliving the glory days doesn’t come cheap but if it makes you feel younger... Read on...
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News Reviews

A Rally Legend

The Lancia name is all but forgotten these days but there was a time when they ruled the World Rally Championship and the Delta model is still the most successful in WRC history. This Delta HF Turbo is a rare survivor of a model that sits in the shadow of the awesome Delta Integrale. But its value also sits in the shadow of its illustrious sister making it a bit of a classic hot hatch bargain. Read on...
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News Reviews

Tesla Model X-pensive?

Tesla cars are like Apple iPhones – there’s a new one every couple of years making your old one seem inadequate. So is buying a three-year-old Tesla like buying a three-year-old iPhone? How has the X progressed in the last three years and is it worth the extra coin? This 2019 one at Turners is the cheapest on the market but still costs more than ten Suzuki Swifts of the same age. Read on...
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News Reviews

Cheap as Chips

It’s hard to imagine an MG that doesn’t leak oil on your driveway and refuse to start if it’s too cold or too hot or not in the mood. But that seems to be the reality of the new generation of MG that is rapidly becoming very popular in NZ and around the world. And with a 7-year, unlimited kilometres warranty and a low price it’s easy to understand why. But can these two 2021 MG 3 Excites really be any good given the sub $17k price? Well yes, actually. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Next Escort Sport?

Anyone who follows the prices of old Fords will know the price of Mk1&2, 2 door Escorts has gone crazy in recent years. Mark 1 Mexico or RS cars are off the charts and out of reach for most people and now the humble Mark 2 1600 Sport is quickly heading in that direction with a half decent one fetching $30k plus now. So what’s next? Is the mark 2 Ford Focus ST the next Escort Sport. If it is then this example at Turners Nelson is a must buy. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Budget Classic Holden

The Camira was not exactly a triumph for Holden or, for that matter, those that bought them early on. But with the passage of time and the upsurge in popularity for 80s cars, especially those painted gold with beige upholstery, maybe it’s time to cut Holden’s first front wheel drive car some slack. And with an auction estimate of $800-$1400 for what is a very rare survivor could this Camira actually finally be cool? Read on...
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News Reviews

A Colt Classic

Japanese cars from the 70s are like a lolly scramble at a kid's birthday party – everybody wants them but there’s not enough to go around. And one of the biggest sugar hits of them all is the Mitsubishi Galant GTO, a mini Mustang inspired coupe with delicious proportions and sweet lines. Most have dissolved like a sherbet lollipop in a kid’s mouth so this is like a single lolly scramble at a big kids’ party and maybe you could be the lucky one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Beige Beauty

It may not quite qualify as glamping right now but with some imagination you could turn what seems to be a recreation of a 1970s hospital ward into something a little more welcoming. Otherwise this 1973 Bedford based mobile student flat is ready to go. Read on...
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News Reviews

Bargain Beemer

August may not seem like a logical time to be buying a convertible but with Spring just around the corner, before you know it the days will be longer and warmer and demand for summer focused cars will increase and so will prices. So buying this NZ new, 3 litre BMW Z4 with 6 speed manual box and low kms in Winter really could make sense. Especially as the auction estimate is just $4500-$5500. Read on...
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News Reviews

Italian Miniature Stallion

Did you know that the Fiat 500 was assembled in Otahuhu where this car is being sold this week? Did you know the “Bambina” name and badge was only a thing in NZ? Did you know that a Bambina at a car show will statistically attract more attention than a $500,000 Ferrari? There’s possibly much more you don’t know about one of the worlds greatest cars. Read on...
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News Reviews

More Issues Than Vogue

When someone says you ‘have more issues than Vogue’ are they referring to the magazine or the Range Rover Vogue? That is perhaps a bit unfair on the old Rangy but it does have a reputation for poor reliability and expensive parts. However, the second generation Range Rover P38 is a handsome beast and classic status is almost assured. So is this NZ new example worth a punt? Read on...
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News Reviews

The Four Door Monaro

In the confusing world of classic cars two door coupes trump four door sedans...usually. The four door sedan version of a model is often cruelly labelled “a parts car” despite its obvious practical advantages. But back in the 70s Holden released its first four door version of the famous Monaro and it proved to be popular, really popular. Read on...
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News Reviews

Cheap Track Hacks?

So you want something to fang around a track on open days but don’t want to use your family car? But you also want to go fast and be able to drive home afterwards? Well these two look like worthy candidates. They are quick, fun and cheap and in the case of the Renault Clio RS a life on the track will probably be easier than the life it’s had on the road to this point. Read on...
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News Reviews

Celebrating the Unexceptional

You won’t see them at classic car auctions or being used as wedding cars or at your usual performance and classic car show. But driving something as forgettable as a Honda Capa or as dorky as a Toyota Platz these days is almost subversive, a sort of anti-popular statement. And it’s a statement with an upside for your bank balance. Read on...
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News Reviews

Tougher than an Overcooked Steak

If you need a car for your daily commute then this Jeep Wrangler Unlimited will be perfect for you...if your commute involves war zones, mountains or boulder strewn muddy fields. It will also be perfect for the school run if the school is located on top of a mountain with no road access. This 2013 NZ new example is available now. Read on...
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News Reviews

Quadrifoglio Verde

Some people will never get their heads around Alfas and they’ll be sure to let you know about it at every opportunity. Some of the criticism is fair but much of it has been gleaned from Colin at the pub whose brother’s mate’s dad had one in the 70s and it went rusty. And whilst many of the gripes about Alfa’s relate to cars from decades ago and will have no bearing on the this 2015 Giulietta QV it’s probably best not to ask Colin for buying advice on this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Curvy Italian Exotica

It’s the Supercar for those that want a bit more comfort and refinement but still want the looks and the epic sound of a Ferrari built V8. The Maserati GranTurismo coupe is a grand tourer, but with 450hp and a trick transmission it ain’t no show pony and this one is for sale right now at Turners North Shore. Read on...
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News Reviews

How it Started, How it’s Going

When General Motors killed off their EV1 (the worlds first purpose built, mass produced EV) Tesla saw the potential market and within a few years became the most valuable car manufacturer (by market cap) in the world. So what was the EV1, what happened to it and how did it lead to this 2022 Tesla Model 3 that’s selling now at Turners Otahuhu? Read on...
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News Reviews

Aqua – Still or Sparkling

As fuel prices rise we will start to see more people who previously “wouldn’t be seen dead in a Hybrid or EV” very much alive and behind the wheel of a hybrid or EV. Escalating costs will do that to some firmly held positions and the refusal to drive a more efficient vehicle becomes a less attractive hill to die on. So why not face the inevitable now and start saving? Would you like your Aqua still or sparkling? Read on...
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News Reviews

Get Smart

It’s tiny, you can park it anywhere, it’s easy on petrol and you’d think grid-locked Auckland or Wellington would be awash with them, but they’re not. However, a walk around the inner city streets of somewhere like Rome suggests the Smart car has its place. Maybe this one has a place in your life. Read on...
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News Reviews

Are Classic Utes a Thing?

The Ute of old was a very different beast to today’s family or lifestyle ute. It was a work truck for doing work that didn’t include accountancy or real estate sales. You bought a ute to carry stuff to building sites or farms, and towing trailers and concrete mixers. Seldom seen on the urban school run or carrying a jetski. This one should be in a museum or classic car show. Read on...
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News Reviews

Affordable Retro

Once upon a time I T-boned a 1986 Toyota Cressida in my 1979 Chrysler Alpine after being rear-ended by a mid seventies Hillman Avenger. No one was badly hurt but sadly none of the cars survived. I had forgotten about it until I saw these two pop up for sale at Turners and the memories came flooding back. And then there was the realisation that two of these models had become classics and the other had disappeared almost without a trace. Read on...
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News Reviews

Der Velvet Hammer

Fluff up your perm, adjust those shoulder pads and break out the INXS cassette because you’ll need to get into character when you drive one of the ultimate roadsters from the late 80s/early 90s. The Mercedes R129 500SL is one of the great wind in the hair cruisers with real punch in the performance stakes. Der Velvet Hammer. Read on...
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The Brock Commodore that Wasn’t Quite

Before there was HSV (Holden Special Vehicles) the hot Holdens came from HDT (Holden Dealer Team). But by the time of this VL Group A SS homologation special the Holden/HDT relationship had started to crumble, all because of Peter Brock and a box of crystals and magnets. Read on to find out more about that story and how you can buy this very desirable Holden...
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Old, Slow But Oh So Cool

Mercedes sedans from the 60s and 70s are just plain cool. They are slow, especially with a non-turbo diesel under the bonnet, often rusty and maybe even a bit smelly, but very, very cool. But there’s one accessory on this $1 reserve W115 240D that is very desirable and worth more than most might think. Can you guess what it is?
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5 Reasons to Buy an MX5

Values of Mazda’s brilliant MX5 have been on the rise in recent years but $9990 for this 1998 low km RS model still represents good value today. Forget that you could once pick them up for peanuts as that’s irrelevant (I mean you could once buy a good Porsche 911 for $10k). It’s best to recognise why the MX5 is gaining in value, and will continue to do so. Read on...
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The Little Beema with a Big Heart

BMW’s 1 series may have been the smallest, most affordable car in their range at the time but they also catered for the lovers of small cars with big power. The 135i dispensed with the 4 cylinder engines and squeezed in a straight six with a couple of turbos strapped on. If your idea of fun is 300hp through the rear wheels of a little car then this could be for you. Read on...
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Classic Lexus Luxury

The thought of a Japanese lux o-barge becoming a classic may seem far fetched but the name Lexus has become synonymous with luxury, quality and reliability. The Toyota owned brand had released its first model only 12 years before this 2001 GS300 was built so it’s a young brand and this car comes from its relatively early days. And this one owner, NZ new example with just 80,900kms under its belt is a prime example. Read on...
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News Reviews

The True Successor to the Original Mini?

I have always felt that the true successor to the original Mini was not the new BMW Mini but the MK1 Ford Ka. It’s small, cheap, instantly recognisable and fun to drive. It’s also easy on petrol, which, as we all know, is an advantage today. This example has very low kms and being from 2004 makes it the one to have. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Stinger in the Tail

A few short years ago Korean brands were looked down on by car buyers who saw them as inferior. And, to be fair, who can forget the dodgy Daewoo Nubira or the Hyundai Pony? But in recent years brands like Kia and Hyundai have skilfully turned around perceptions by building decent, if not overly exciting, cars. And then Kia got cocky and took on the Europeans with the Stinger. Is it any good? You betcha. Read on...
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News Reviews

Future Classic JDM Celica

You may have noticed that some of the hottest classic cars right now are JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars from the 1990s. And if you’ve only just noticed and your budget is tight then chances are you’ve missed the boat on the WRX, Type R, EVO, GT-R craze and are forlornly watching from the dock as it sails into the sunset. But don’t despair, there are still some floating just within reach, like this Toyota Celica. Read on.
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News Reviews

Black Beauty

One of the main issues with owning a big American imported car in NZ is having the controls on the wrong side. It’s a long way from the driver’s seat to the ticket dispenser at a car park and any coolness you’d built up by driving your dream machine quickly leaks away as you try to – unsuccessfully – get your car into the car park, with a crowd watching on, while retaining some dignity. Not a problem with this 1966 Impala that’s being auctioned with a $1 reserve – it has been converted to RHD. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Proper Barn Finds

The term “barn find” has become as popular as other doozies such as “ran when parked”, “easy project” and “mint except for minor rust” when it comes to advertising old cars. But these two cars at Turners Christchurch are worthy of the term. 50+ years of hibernation makes these very rare British sports cars amazing discoveries that will be sold “as found”. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

Ugly is in the Eye of the Beholder

First there was the new Beetle, then came the new Mini and then Chrysler joined the retro party with the new ‘something from the 1940s’ called the PT Cruiser. Loosely based on something Humphrey Bogart might have driven but with a 4 cylinder engine, front wheel drive and cheap plastics. Of course people loved it and it has a bit of a cult following. Is it a cult you’d join? Take peep at this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Bench seat and Bull Bars

Bench seat, column shift slush-box, bull bars for nudge parking, hubcaps from Kmart, sunroof cut out by Dave, canopy weather sealed with duct tape and keys by Mister Minit. This is a proper old-school Ute, when climate control meant cranking down the window using your own arm, heated seats meant sheepskins and “room for the whole family” meant your dog, who was also your anti-theft device. Those were the days. Read on...
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News Reviews

Pedigree Cat for Moggy Money

This Jaguar XF-SV8 is a pedigree cat for moggy money but your neighbours won’t know, all they’ll see is you driving a Jag and assume you’ve moved up in the world. It also has a herd of very well trained horses and a supercharged V8 under the bonnet so it has sharp claws when needed, too. Read on...
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News Reviews

Is the Audi TT the Bargain Sports Car of the Moment?

Is the Audi TT a bargain ‘future classic’ or is it style over substance? It was one of those rare cars that went from an exciting motor show concept car to a production car, virtually unchanged. It has gone on to be very successful and is still in production today. It’s beautiful from any angle but do its humble underpinnings detract from its exotic looks? This 3.2 V6 Quattro is just $8700 making it worth it just for the looks alone. Read on...
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News Reviews

Fiery Fiat Project

It’s a project due to an engine bay fire but this 1979 Fiat X/19 looks to have a solid body which is the most important part of a 70s Fiat. Put your ‘fix it again Tony’ jokes back in your ageing dad joke bag because there’s more to the X1/9 than rust and dodgy electrics. And this one, currently being auctioned online, will definitely be saved. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Classic Crumpy

The Toyota Hilux is an international phenomenon, used by everyone from farmers and tradies to accountants and soccer moms through to despot dictatorships in war torn countries. But since the Barry Crump and ‘bugger’ ads from the 80s and 90s NZ has felt a special bond with Toyota’s bomb-proof workhorse. Now the earlier survivors are taking on classic status. Like this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Corrrr Vette

With the Internet being what it is, if you post a picture of a car on social media someone is bound to comment - whether it’s a mobility scooter or a Ferrari - that you should put an LS (colloquial term for gen3 & 4 small block GM V8s) in it. But surely not this time as this muscular Corvette C6 Grand Sport already has the beating heart of an LS3 under the hood. And this one is being auctioned next week. Read on...
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News Reviews

Collector Car Auction Highlights

Turner’s Collector car auction was held on Saturday in Christchurch, and while some of the heavy hitter modern Holdens failed to find new homes there were plenty of other great cars that did including a family reunion. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Valiant Effort

Of the Aussie classics of the seventies the Chrysler Valiant is perhaps the one that is still a bit undervalued compared to the big Holden and Ford competitors from the era. Still, good ones are few and far between so finding one for sale in such fantastic original condition presents a rare opportunity to invest in a car still on an upward curve. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

Impreza Inflation

In November of last year we featured a NZ new 2003 WRX STi with just 135,000kms on the clock in this blog. We suggested at the guide price of $8000 - $10,000 it was a potential bargain and would surely rise in value. This prediction was met with a collective yawn and even some derision, and it sold for $9300. What a difference a year makes. Lift your sights for this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Limoncello or Banana Milkshake?

What’s your poison – Limoncello or Banana milkshake? Both of these cars have V8 engines, both are very fast, both are very yellow and both are very exclusive. But both are very different flavours and both are being auctioned at Turner’s collectible car auction this month. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

RX Heaven

Whilst there is a large contingent of some of the most collectible Holdens on offer in Turner’s Collectible auction on 20th November there are also some other desirable and interesting cars going under the hammer. Take these two Wankel rotary powered Mazdas. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions

Strewth!

The Turners Collector car auction on 20th November has some bonza Holdens in the line-up. Last week we featured the final Utes produced by the company and this week it’s two of the earlier models. These two beautifully restored and tastefully enhanced rippers seem quite affordable compared to last week’s offerings and it’s fair to say they will be extremely popular. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Latest and fastest* Holden Ute

It’s fair to say the last HSV Maloo utes are investments rather than work hacks. And what good investments they have proved to be so far. In 2017 the GTS-R Maloo had a RRP of around NZ$120k. Today they are knocking on the door of NZ$300k and rising. Turners has two 2017 Maloo utes being auctioned at their classic car auction in November. Bring your big wallet. Read on...
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News Reviews

Drowned but not Out?

Unless built for a James Bond film any sort of Lotus, replica or original, is not designed to go underwater. Sadly, the weather gods didn’t get the memo and flooded the garage where this Chevron Lotus 7 replica was living. Can it be saved? You’d think so. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Stinger in the Tail

A few short years ago Korean brands were looked down on by car buyers who saw them as inferior. And, to be fair, who can forget the awful Daewoo Nubira or the Hyundai Pony? But in recent years brands like Kia and Hyundai have skilfully turned around perceptions by building decent, if not overly exciting, cars. And then Kia get cocky and took on the Europeans with the Stinger. Is it any good? You betcha. Read on...
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News Reviews

The First Japanese GT

If you remember the Isuzu Bellett at all it’s the simple 4 door sedan that your weird uncle and aunt drove when you were a kid. But scouting around the outer edges of Turner’s stock has thrown up this battered and rusty coupe version with its overhead cam engine and twin carbs. It was also the first Japanese car to wear a GT badge and front disc brakes. Read on...
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News Reviews

Back When a Ute was a Work Truck

This old digger would’ve been the ute of choice in 1981. A bench seat with auto transmission was bordering on posh back then. But compared to today’s utes with their Bluetooth, climate control and comfy seats this old boy seems prehistoric. And flat out cool. Read on...
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News Reviews

Stay Focused

Last week we featured a 10 year old Merc and compared the price to that of a new Ford Focus. This upset at least one commenter (something about fruit) so this week we’ll feature a Ford Focus and compare the price to that of a new Mercedes (we even?). Seriously though, if you want to be seen, go fast and have fun while still having 5 doors for the family then this Focus ST is for you. Read on...
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Deutsch Perfekt

This Mercedes SLK350 is an exercise in looking filthy rich for less than the price of a new base model Ford Focus. It’s fast, exclusive, comfortable and very pretty. It’s also low mileage and NZ new and under $30k. You’ll need to sharpen up your wardrobe and get a haircut because you’ll be in a different league. Read on...
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News Reviews

Tough as Le Nails

Isn’t it fun looking at the fringes of what is for sale or auction at Turners? We could focus on the usual Ford Rangers and Suzuki Swifts but who really cares? The answer may very well be many more than care about the Peugeot 505 but I’m going to put that down to many not knowing what a Peugeot 505 is. So please, read on...
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News Reviews

Exceptionally Unexceptional

Now before you give your hot take on this oddball gem in the comments section, remember, car lovers have diverse taste. And with Britain’s Festival of the Unexceptional fast becoming one of that country’s most popular car shows maybe we should celebrate the unexotic AND affordable. I give you the Suzuki Cultus Convertible. Read on...
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News Reviews

Just Holden On for Summer

To many it’s just a scruffy old Holden like the one grandad used to have. But to others it’s a symbol of better times when cars had no air conditioning, rust was a thing and stubbies were acceptable summer attire for blokes. Reliving the glory days doesn’t come cheap but if it makes you feel younger... Read on...
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News Reviews

One for the Drivers

When the Toyota 86 was released in New Zealand in 2012 it caused quite a stir. There were limited numbers and all were spoken for before they had even arrived. It wasn’t particularly rapid but it was a focused drivers car and it was a classic before it had even left the showroom. Read on...
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News Reviews

Bionic Ioniq EV

There are two issues in many peoples’ minds when it comes to electric cars – Range and cost. But while the Hyundai Ioniq’s 210km range might not be suited to long-haul driving it’s more than enough for the majority of commuters. A new EV Ioniq starts at $66k (less Govt rebate) but this 2017 model can be purchased now for just $38,410. Read on...
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News Reviews

Cuddly Cactus

For some the main thorny issue with the Citroen C4 Cactus might be its unusual looks. But there’s a lot to like about this Cactus even if it appears the designers were partaking in a taste of the prickly plant’s juice. It has a party trick that makes so much sense for city drivers. Read on...
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News Reviews

Baby You’re a Suprastar

Japanese sports cars from the 80s and 90s are hot property right now with some fetching the sort of money once the preserve of high end European exotics. But there are still some retro Japanese performance cars that can still be bought at relatively affordable prices. This Mk3 Toyota Supra is a fine example. Read on...
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News Reviews

O-Kei Doh-Kei

These two Japanese Kei cars have tiny 3 cylinder engines, meagre horsepower and even less torque. But what they do have is fun, and lots of it. You don’t need to go fast to feel like you’re going fast and these cars give you that feeling whilst staying within the law. And really, what’s the point of loads of horsepower if you can’t use it? Read on...
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News Reviews

The Closest You’ll Get to a New One

There are no new Holden Commodore Utes, they are extinct. So if you want one you’ll have to make do with a used one, one that has probably racked up a big bunch of kilometres, one that has worked hard, probably heavily scarred. Or you can buy this one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Bigger than Texas

If you are intimidated by the thought of parallel parking a Toyota Yaris, or if your garage is of typical garage dimensions then this 5.7 metre 1966 Cadillac convertible may not be an ideal choice for you. But if you care not a jot for the challenges of parking and own a warehouse sized garage then don your white suit and cowboy hat because your moment has come. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

Not For the School Run

With the current talk of transitioning to EVs and Hybrids and tempting buyers away from utes and SUVs it might seem an odd time to highlight a crusty, dirty, thirsty, old Land Rover V8. But this old Landy is not quite the environmental disaster it might seem. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Slowest Depreciating Car in NZ?

The Suzuki Jimny is a giant killing off-road vehicle in more ways than you’d think. They are incredibly capable on the rough stuff and although basic, small and not exactly comfortable they are also incredible depreciation busters. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Nineties Are Back, Baby

With classic car prices currently experiencing something of a boom it’s a good time to try and pick the next movers and shakers. Some models from the 1990s are already commanding huge collector money but will this rising tide lift all boats or do some have holes in them? Read on...
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News Reviews

A Range of Nearly New Rangers

Turners currently have five, effectively new, Ford Rangers for sale with a 5 day right of return, manufacturer’s warranty and ready to drive away. Whether it’s a 2wd or 4WD XLT with either 2L Bi-turbo engine or bigger 3.2L engine they’re all there with less than a couple of hundred kilometres on the clock. Read on...
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Classics on the Rise – 2 distant Cousins

These two classics may not appear to have much in common, one being a British Ford and the other a Japanese Mitsubishi. But one thing they do share is the classic wave both are surfing right now. And there’s something else they nearly shared when the Capri was born in 1968. Read on...
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The Purple Petrol Eater

Have you ever got your butt too close to the fire while trying to warm up on a cold winter evening? Well this 1974 Cadillac knows how you feel. In this case it was parked up against a house that burned down...along with the keys. But all was not lost and this very distinct piece of Americana should live to drive another day. Will it be you behind the wheel? Read on...
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Panda Cub

The headline with Fiat’s TwinAir Panda is ‘frugality’ but there’s so much more to this stylish Italian city car. With Petrol prices riding high the opportunity to buy a two cylinder, 875cc Fiat is pretty timely. And this clever Panda is not expensive either. Read on...
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The Wilderness Awaits You

This 2019 Mercedes Unimog bus is not the vehicle for the school run, unless, of course, you have a very large family and the school is at the top of a very rugged mountain. This military grade truck will, however, take you, your family and your friends to places most other vehicles could never go. Read on...
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The Thunderbird that saw Thelma & Louise

This fire damaged fourth generation ‘64 Ford Thunderbird may have seen Thelma & Louise and decided to disable itself before something worse happened. It’s a more desirable convertible version made most famous for its star turn in that famous road movie with the big ending, and it’s definitely worth saving. It’s still registered, too, so should be a straight forward restoration. Read on...
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Make a Wish Come True

The Make A Wish Foundation is a charity that grants wishes to terminally ill children, bringing them joy in a very difficult time. It’s an incredibly worthwhile cause and the proceeds from the sales of these two classic masterpieces will go towards making more dreams come true. And if you end up buying one you’ll be contributing to the cause and realising your own dream, too. Read on...
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Week = Business, Weekend = Party

Volvo has always been the choice of sensible people looking for understated style and class leading safety. The sort of people who might find the idea of a convertible a bit frivolous but deep down wish they could be a bit more ‘devil may care’ if only the cost/benefit analysis stacked up. Sound familiar? Well Volvo found an answer just for you. Read on...
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Injured Muscle

Classic American cars are costly in NZ. Imported, worn out family sedans from the 70s turn up for sale regularly with wince inducing price tags and a list of problems longer than a Bruce Springsteen concert. So this not-quite-classic Dodge Charger looks like a worthy alternative. And the problems list is more like the Boss’s encore in length. Read on...
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The Hottest Hyundai

Hyundai has come along way since its dreary days of Excels and Ponys but despite its presence in the WRC it has not been known for performance cars. But that all changed when the i30N came along and proved to be a winning formula. And it comes with a factory warranty that includes track days! Read on...
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Discount Luxury

The Mercedes SL is the benchmark for luxury 2 seat roadsters. Rich people love them and they are a true motoring icon. Back in 2004, when this car was new, you needed to shell out a cool $200k+, and the 350 was the cheapest in the range. Today this well preserved NZ new example can be bought for less than a new Suzuki Swift. Read on...
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An Affordable Sporty Hybrid?

Hybrids and electric cars are better for the environment and our wallets. They mostly drive well, they are cheap to run, some have decent performance and prices for used examples are available for most budgets. But most are also a bit dull to look at and are about as sporty as a game of tiddly winks - except one: The Honda CR-Z. Read on...
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Prelude to a Dream

Once upon a time the Honda Prelude was one of the more popular Japanese imports in NZ and they were everywhere. But like most cars, fatigue, fashion and rust has killed most of them and now you rarely see them. Could this amazing 1983 example be one of the best left? It’s for sale at Turners classic auction this Saturday. Read on...
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A Humble Morrie in Spectacular Shape

Turner’s classic car auction takes place next Saturday in Christchurch and today’s spotlight is on an entry that’s a true classic of the people – the lovable Morris Minor. You haven’t been able to buy a new one for decades but this car has been described as better than new. Read on...
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It’s Classic Car Auction Time Again

The next Turners classic car auction is on Saturday, February 20th in Christchurch. We’ll kick off our series of features with a car that started it’s life on the road in Christchurch 60 years ago and looks as good today as it did the day it was registered just before Christmas 1960. Read on...
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Future Classic or Future Scrap?

It may seem unlikely now but looking at the surging tide of old Ford Falcon prices suggests newer ones will one day be prized by future enthusiasts. In which case buying this 15 year old BF XR6 with low kilometres and only two owners for $8500 makes a lot of sense. Read on...
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A Wolf in Labrador’s Clothing

It may look like a family wagon with big wheels and shoulder pad style wheel arches, and it is all that. But this 2016 Audi RS6 is so much more. And, dare I say, more than enough to make the $104k price tag look very reasonable – I’ll explain. Read on...
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Watt’s all the fuss about?

Sick of paying for petrol? Noticed those supermarket petrol discount vouchers getting meaner? Do you suffer from ‘pump pessimism’? Then leave it all behind with a Nissan Leaf. If you currently spend $100 on petrol in your average sized car the Leaf will go the same distance for less than $20. And prices for used first and second generation Leafs are starting to look pretty attractive. Read more...
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Caravantastic

Christmas is nearly upon us and then it’s time to hit the holiday spots where you’ll be sleeping in a tent at a crowded camp site or splashing out the big dollars on motels and AirBnBs. Or you could get a wee caravan and holiday in budget comfort. Here’s one, and it’s very cool. Read on...
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Affordable Italian Exotica

The Italian beauty that could’ve been so much more but still delivers a knockout blow in the looks department. The Alfa Romeo Brera may have been watered down from its original concept but it still retains it’s drop-dead gorgeousness. And instead of being a very limited slice of exotica afforded only by the most wealthy (which is what it could’ve been) it’s accessible and affordable to many.
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Entry into Collectible Ford Ownership

It’s tempting to think that anything wearing a Ford badge will one day become a classic such is the blue oval’s fervent following. There are obvious exclusions – we’re looking at you early 90s Capri convertible and Festiva – but old Fords just seem to have a way of going from junk to ‘must-haves’ at around the 40 year mark. This XE Falcon with S-pack options is no exception and it could be yours. Read on...
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Godzilla 2

It’s not often you’ll hear ‘Nissan’, ‘Potential Bargain’ and ‘$29,000- $31,000’ being used in the same sentence but there it is, we said it. The original Godzilla was an instant classic when it was released in 1989 and prices have been rising like air-cooled Porsches recently. And there’s good reasons why the GT-R is worth so much and this R33, being auctioned next Thursday, looks like good buying. Read on...
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You Can Bet the Ranch on This One

Big old American wagons are very desirable right now but that usually means settling for an imported left hooker with unknown history. But this 1955 Ford Ranch Wagon was sold new in NZ and has the steering wheel correctly located for our roads. And it could be yours. Read on...
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The Smart Buy MX5

You may or may not have noticed that prices for early NA and NB Mazda MX5s have jumped up recently. This is partly due to summer arriving but more to do with a move in the classic market that is recognising the mighty Mazda roadster as a true classic that’s worth investing in. That’s making the often overlooked NC model look like a sensible buy. Read on...
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BMW Mmmm 3

The BMW M3 is the Supercar you can drive daily to work and take to the track on weekends. It’s not exactly a wolf in sheep’s clothing but it blends in better than a Ferrari but can still frighten you with some potent performance when asked. This E90 model is being auctioned at Turners soon. Read on...
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Smart Business

Whatever your views on the current crop of electric vehicles this Nissan E-NV200 all-electric small van makes a decent case for a small business. If you need to make deliveries around town or you’re a tradie who works fairly local then this van makes sense, and it’s not just the fuel savings. Read on...
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WRXcellent Value

Most older Subaru WRXs are now showing mileage equivalent to several trips to the moon with most of it travelled with the driver’s right foot welded to the floor. But not all of them. And this one’s a potential bargain. Read on...
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Mint Merc

You know when a car is truly loved when the owner, who bought it brand new in England, has it shipped it to NZ when emigrating here and keeps the mileage really low and the condition super tidy. It’s not that surprising when you consider it’s an iconic Mercedes SL and as such would be hard to part with. But, alas, the time has come for this beautiful machine to find a new home. Read on...
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The Pinnacle of Automotive Art

There are beautiful cars and there are ‘work of art’ cars. The 1950s Alfa Romeo BAT concept cars fall into the latter category which is why they are going under the hammer as one lot at an art auction rather than a car auction in New York next week. Read on...
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Get it While You Still Can

With values of first-generation Toyota MR2s plotting a course for the stars, the second-generation cars are looking like a good bet at the moment. However, finding sub-200,000km manual examples that haven’t been messed with is not easy. But don’t give up because Turners Dunedin has a candidate that ticks the right boxes. Read on
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Bogan Spec

This 1970 Ford Zodiac has been tastefully modified to 1980s bogan spec which essentially consists of fat rims and a windscreen visor. Bring your stubbies and trucker cap and drive away like a boss. Read on...
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The Little Car that Could

The Suzuki Jimny is a giant-killing off-road vehicle in more ways than you’d think. They are incredibly capable on the rough stuff and, as Kiwi Rail discovered, they are the perfect width for our rail tracks. They may be basic, small and not exactly comfortable but they are also depreciation busters. Read on...
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Bionic Ioniq EV

There are two issues in many peoples’ minds when it comes to electric cars – Range and cost. But while the Hyundai Ioniq’s 210km range might not be suited to long-haul driving it’s more than enough for the majority of commuters. A new EV Ioniq starts at $60k but this 2017 model can be purchased now for just $35,830. Read on...
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She Ain’t No Viva

The Vauxhall name tends to conjure up images of granddad’s old Viva or Velox but occasionally they shake up the staid image with something right off the top shelf. This 2004 Vauxhall VX220T is as far from a 1970s family car as you can get and it’s absolutely brilliant. It’s also being auctioned in the Turners Classic Car auction this Saturday. Read on...
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Don’t Lose this Charger

The big Valiant coupe known as the Charger was a big seller in NZ. In its heyday, it accounted for one-third of Chrysler NZ’s 7000 annual Valiant sales. The fuel crisis and the popularity of smaller Japanese cars eventually killed off the big Aussie Chrysler but this one is still very much alive and well and is part of the upcoming Turners classic car auction. Read on...
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Classic Mustangs in the Upcoming Classic Auction

A pair of Mustangs as quintessentially 1970s as a pair of Stubbies are being auctioned at Turners Classic car auction on September 5th. Two early 70s Mach 1 Mustangs in one auction is a rare thing and unlikely to repeat anytime soon. You can choose between a fully restored auto or an easy project manual. Read on...
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1979 MG MGB Roadster

It’s at times like this when it feels like a good idea to imagine the future, a future that promises warm sun, gentle sea breezes and long days. Feeling relaxed? Now imagine cruising along a quiet coastal road in a classic British sports car with the top down. Can you feel the stress ebbing away? Well, it just so happens that the future holds a classic car auction at Turners Christchurch and they have a sweet looking MG up for grabs. Read on...
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A Valiant Effort Required

Unless this 1979 Valiant wagon ran into another Valiant we can assume the other car came off worse. However, the big Chrysler didn’t come away unscathed and now this old timer, a bit crumpled and written off by the insurer, needs a valiant effort to get it back on the road. But is it fixer or a donor? Read on...
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Quest For the Shark Bus

It’s undoubtedly the worlds most famous shark themed bus and since it has come up for auction at Turners this ex-Kelly Tarlton coach has only got more famous. But there is possibly one man that wants it more than most, and he has started a Boosted campaign to raise money to buy it. Read on...
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Holden out for a Hero

Classic Holdens are hot and getting hotter. Anything pre-1980 is in demand and you won’t find much under $20k today. But put down that steak and cheese pie and whack that stubby of VB back in the esky because Turners Penrose has a working class hero Holden that’s not priced like a rare, exotic sports car. Read on...
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Evo-lution not Revolution

Mitsubishi’s theory of evolution was simple; take a standard model Lancer and turn it into a blisteringly fast weapon and keep updating it. While the concept may have fully evolved and is no longer built, Turners Penrose has a very nice example of the final version so you don’t have to miss out. Read on...
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YouTube and its wealth of car related content

If you are into all things automotive there’s a fair chance, like me, you spent a decent chunk of lockdown watching some of the endless Youtube content devoted to cars. And there’s almost certainly more you haven’t seen than you’ve actually viewed. So this is not a definitive list by any stretch and you’ll have your favourites. These are just a few of the lesser known channels.
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Oh La La

When you mention Renault to many NZ drivers you, somewhat ironically, get a very Gallic shrug of the shoulders or a dismissive wave of the hands. This is odd because when it comes to hot hatches Renault has got form, seriously good form. Read on...
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The Fender Stratocaster of Cars

The Ford Mustang was one of the most important cars of its generation, the original Pony car. It hit the showrooms in 1964 and sold 1.5 million units in the first two years. Nothing else came close at the time and they still look amazing today. It’s the Fender Strat of cars. Turners Penrose has this ‘65 notchback for auction and it’s a stickshift too. Read on...
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Safe and Fun? You can have both

Volvo has a deserved and enviable reputation when it comes to safety, but with safety comes a perception of perhaps being boring – a car for architects, accountants and families from nice suburbs. But there’s an exciting side to Volvo, one that involves power, striking looks and colours whilst still being safe. Take this V40 T5 R-Design at Turners Tauranga for example. Read on...
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Before there was Audi there was Auto Union

Audi is a much admired German brand that conjures up luxury, power, the Quattro 4WD system and motorsport. But before it was Audi it was Auto Union and, apart from the famous inter-linked rings on the grill, Auto Union cars will be less familiar to most and Turners Christchurch are auctioning this rare NZ new example. Read on...
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Fiery Fiat

Small Fiats are cool. It’s a fact that’s not open for discussion. However, this pretty and rare Fiat 600 went from cool to very hot in a big and frightening hurry. But all is not lost for this stylish Italian and this otherwise very tidy Seicento. Read on...
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The Best Car in Lockdown is the One That Needs Some Tinkering

Those 5 weeks of not driving during level 4, and a couple more in level 3 for many, has left many petrol-heads with a hole in their lives. But for many of us the opportunity to mess around with our cars has been a revelation with jobs, big and small, finally getting the attention they deserve. Read on...
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How is Your Car Coping with Lockdown?

With lockdown ending its 4th week some of us will not have driven our cars for a long time, or occasionally at best. Our cars have likely been neglected and it’ll show. So maybe it’s time to evict the spiders, clean off the dust and make sure it still runs and moves. Read on...
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Self Isolate in a Jag on a Twisty Road

Say what you like about Jaguars but the F-Type is an absolute stunner to look at from any angle, sounds epic and goes like a cat chasing a rat, too. Turners have this example right now and I can think of a no better way to self isolate than inside one of these on a quiet road with lots of twisty bits. Read on...
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One–Off Zambesi Fiat

Zambesi is one of New Zealand’s most influential and longest running fashion labels and has long been at the cutting edge of men’s and women’s fashion. In 2012 they teamed up with Fiat NZ to create a one-off, special edition Fiat 500, or the Z 500. Now this special car is for sale and you can buy it. Read on...
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Stuttgart Taxi

Ahh, the Mercedes W123; there’s something comforting, safe and reassuring about its no nonsense, almost plain exterior. It’s dependable and handsome but the outrageous avocado upholstery is a little wink to its fun side. This 250E from 1977 could possibly be the ultimate classic daily driver and I’ll tell you why. Read on...
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Feisty Fiat

Maybe somewhat of an oddball to some but to others the Fiat Coupe is getting better with age. In its day it was a striking design and today it’s starting to look like a classic in waiting. It’s also fast, like a coupe should be, and cheap. Read on...
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VE Commodore – Future Classic?

We now know the news of Holden’s imminent demise and there’s bound to be talk of classic Holden prices going up. But classic Holdens are already expensive so what about a future classic? The VE Commodore, as the first fully Aussie designed, engineered and built Commodore, could be the gambler’s choice. And this limited edition GTR or SS V could be a good place to start. Read on...
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Barely Holden On

As you will have heard already, Holden, the iconic Aussie car brand, is being discontinued by parent company General Motors at the end of this year. There are many ramifications for NZ consumers and fans alike, from motorsport to cop cars to parts availability. But today is a day to reflect on the Aussie car that had such a big presence in New Zealand. The band is breaking up so let’s look at some of their greatest hits.
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Which Hybrid?

So you want to use less of that expensive combustible stuff and be kinder to the planet at the same time? But you don’t want the range restriction of a full electric car? A hybrid vehicle could be for you, but which one might depend on your budget. Luckily there’s a hybrid option for most budgets but not all hybrids work in the same way so let’s take a look at the contenders.
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Get Out of My Way, Peasants!

It’s the size of an ocean liner, has a 6.8 litre engine that runs on the sweat and tears of the great unwashed and is quite difficult to park. But none of this matters as you’ll have a driver to deal with the tricky stuff while you sit in the back seat plotting another corporate takeover whilst savouring a very fine single malt. Read on...
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Major Morris Minor

It’s as British as warm beer and Brexit and was optimistically fitted with a convertible roof, presumably in case you planned driving it to a warmer climate. This 1953 Morris Minor Convertible tourer is in amazing condition and is being auctioned at Turners Christchurch next week. Read on...
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Cat Amongst the Pigeons

When it comes to absolute power and luxury most think BMW M5, Mercedes AMG C63 or Audi RS6. But there’s a classy alternative to the Germans that could easily be overlooked but might be the best of the lot. Turners have this Jaguar XFR and the big cat might just blow your mind if not your budget. Read on...
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Weird and wonderful - Retro Techno

The Morris brand has been exhumed from a British automotive graveyard and reanimated with a jolt of electricity with this new, Morris J Series inspired, EV van called the Morris JE. The body is made from carbon fibre and the chassis has been designed for multiple model uses so we can expect other versions to follow. The Morris JE has a range of around 320 kilometres on a charge and has a low, flat payload with a bigger capacity than the old J series.
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Nineties Nuggets

The 1990s was the decade of Grunge, Clinton, Blair and Bolger, the beginning of the rise of the internet and the movie Titanic. But for many Generation Y readers it will also be looked back on as a golden age of motoring. The oldest cars from the nineties are turning 30 this year, so are some of these cars ripe for a classic revival? History would suggest so....
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Hole in One

Some prefer to walk around for hours hitting small balls with long sticks at tiny holes with a trolley in tow. Others, however, prefer their golf a bit quicker. And there’s no quicker golf than the mighty Volkswagen Golf R. Turners Tauranga has this one for sale right now. Read on...
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Disco Fever

It’s hard to justify a big, heavy, gas guzzling SUV in these days of expensive fuel and global warming but if needs must then the Land Rover Discovery 3 is a pretty useful tool that can do a bit of everything. Read on...
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Reviews

Get Smart

It’s tiny, you can park it anywhere, it’s easy on petrol and you’d think grid-locked Auckland or Wellington would be awash with them, but they’re not. However, a walk around the inner city streets of somewhere like Rome suggests the Smart car has its place. Maybe this one has a place in your life. Read on...
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Christmas Gifts for Car Buffs

Every year we take a look at the good and the great automotive Christmas gift ideas so you don’t have to. Here we go.
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The Car’s the Star

With it approaching the holiday season and the recent release of the movie Ford V Ferrari we thought it’d be good to take a look at some of the cars that have become stars of the silver screen and achieved iconic status in the process. Click the hyperlinks for movie snippets.
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GT-R With A Twist

As if the Nissan GT-R wasn’t exclusive enough someone has put scissor doors and an outrageous spoiler on this one. But, like the standard version, it’s still as fast as a Porsche 911 Turbo or Audi R8 and it’ll nip at the heels of Lamborghinis and Ferraris. And the Nissan R35 GT-R is still the bargain Supercar. This epic 2008 model is available right now for less than the deposit on a Ferrari. Read on...
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They DO Make Them Like They Used To

The name Royal Enfield may sound as British as Hillman Hunter and Morris Marina but it’s actually made in India. And despite the vintage looks it’s still being made today and is as popular as ever. This one year old Classic 500 is selling now at Turners Dunedin, so what’s the big deal with these new/old bikes? Read on...
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The World of Funny Car Ads

Car adverts come in different forms but essentially they are either aspirational – you know, the SUV that will take you into the wilderness but in reality will just commute you to work. Or the Luxury Euro GT that will have you driving like a boss on the sweeping back roads of the Scottish Highlands but in reality will just commute you to work.
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A Smear Campaign Against Old Wipers

Recently I drove to Wellington from Napier and back again. On the way down the rain started in Featherston and never stopped until I got back to Napier. In Wellington it was torrential and the whole time, from the first wipe until the last, my wipers juddered noisily across the windscreen like a stick being dragged down a corrugated iron fence. With 150kms still to drive and with the sun below the horizon the rubber blades started to disintegrate leaving the metal parts to screech across the screen like a hyena with a guts ache. Could it be time for new blades?
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How the Classics Fared in Christchurch

November’s classic car auction at Turners Christchurch was popular as ever and there were some fantastic results and possibly one or two surprising ones also... Read more
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The Great Defender

The Defender has long been the go-to vehicle to make posh people look more rugged. But make no mistake, this is one rugged beast and rather than looking like a farm vehicle this one, in black, looks like it might be about to go on a Black Ops mission which makes it a perfect city car for an urban professional. And it could be yours. Read on...
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Small Fiats for the Chop?

Small cars have been a Fiat mainstay for decades and they sell like torte calde in Europe with the Panda its biggest seller. But it turns out small cars cost plenty to develop and build and come with an expectation of a cheap price tag meaning they just aren’t profitable. So Fiat are pulling the plug and focusing on its larger cars. So if you’ve never owned a small, cheap Fiat now might be the time. Read on...
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Your Very Own Mobile Command Station?

When someone asks you what you drive, wouldn’t it be cool to say “a mobile command station”? Well you could if you buy this ex NZ Fire Service command station with a price tag that seems ridiculously small for a vehicle with such a lofty title. Read on...
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7 Year Itch

0-100kph in a smidge over 3 seconds! That’s about as long as it took you to read that opening sentence. That’s also the headline number for this truly remarkable car. This Caterham 7 Superlight CSR260 is being sold as part of Turner’s classic auction this Saturday and it’s hard to imagine you’ll go faster for less money. Read on...
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Spring Check-Up

Winter seems to be behind us now so as we’re heading into the warmer months it might be a good time to give you and your car a post winter medical.
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Tesla a NZ Best Seller

For the first time an electric vehicle has made the top sellers list in New Zealand. Tesla’s Model 3 sold 359 units in September making it the 7th biggest seller overall and 3rd in passenger vehicle sales behind Toyota’s Corolla and Yaris, both of which had their numbers boosted significantly by sales to rental car companies.
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Christchurch Classic Auction

It’s that time again when lovers of old classics, exotics and sports-cars start digging down the back of the sofa looking for any loose change that can go towards purchasing their next dream car. Yes, the next Christchurch Classic auction takes place on November 2nd and the line-up is starting to look very tasty indeed. Here are three of my picks.
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One of the Greats - 24th October

Turners next classic auction is less than two weeks away and there are some tasty entries in the line-up but it’s this shabby little Fiat that caught my eye. It’s clearly a project but for someone wanting to tackle a restoration on the simpler end of the scale this is it. And when you’re done you’ll own a masterpiece. Read on...
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K-Pop Coupe

Hyundai has pretty much nailed the hatchback and urban SUV markets and has even created a hot hatch contender in the i30 N. And its foray into the sport coupe market was a giant leap forward over its previous attempts, with the Veloster, a bonkers looking coupe/hatch/sedan with a cool name. Like this one at Turners Whangarei. Read on...
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The Havals and the Haval Nots

Remember when Hyundai first started selling cars here? Badge snobs everywhere (basically nearly everyone) wouldn’t touch them. But look at Hyundai now. Are Haval the next Hyundai? There’s no denying that the Haval H2 is a well priced, well sorted, small SUV. This 1 year old example has just 12000kms on the clock and can be driven away for $19,990. But would you? Read on...
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The Cuddly Cactus

For some the main thorny issues with the Citroen C4 Cactus will be its looks and, in this case, maybe its colour. But there’s a lot to like about this Cactus even if it appears the designers were partaking in a taste of the prickly plant’s juice. Read on...
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News Reviews

Volvo Wants Safety for All

Sixty years ago Volvo started fitting a safety product to their cars that has gone on to save an estimated 1 million lives. That product was the three point safety belt, one of the single most important vehicle safety devices.
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Road Rage – Why So Angry?

On a recent trip to Cambodia I couldn’t help admiring the seemingly chaotic driving and traffic. It seemed it could only work if everyone was onboard and nobody got angry. As a tuktuk passenger I witnessed many situations where World War 3 would’ve broken out here but didn’t raise a single eyebrow hair there. I even witnessed a driver apologising to another driver who had clearly been the one at fault. They both laughed and carried on. So why are we so uptight here?
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Charged and Ready to Go

There are two issues in many peoples’ minds when it comes to electric cars – Range and cost. But while the Hyundai Ioniq’s 200km range might not be suited to long-haul driving it’s more than enough for the majority of commuters. A new EV Ioniq starts at $60k but this low mileage 2017 model can be purchased now for just $39,830. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Original Mini’s Successor

What the Mini Metro lacked in the out-going Mini’s character it at least matched it in handling and fun. And when (the soon to be Princess) Diana bought one of the first cars it became a sales sensation. They are rarely seen nowadays but at under $2k this MG version is certainly cheaper than even the roughest old Mini and possibly more exclusive. Read on...
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News Classic Cars

Recalled Airbags to Become a WOF Issue

In April of last year, the government announced the mandatory recall of vehicles fitted with faulty Takaka airbags. This was due to the faults potentially leading to serious injury or even death of a vehicle’s occupants. Most have been remedied but over 17,000 have not and from early next year those cars not sorted will fail a WOF. Read on...
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News Reviews Maintenance

Theory of Evo-lution

Mitsubishi’s theory of evolution was simple; take a standard model Lancer and turn it into a blisteringly fast weapon and keep updating it. The first Lancer Evo was released in 1992 and ten evolutions and loads of motorsport success later the Evo X was the final version. While it may have fully evolved and is no longer built, Turners Hamilton has a very nice example so you don’t have to miss out. Read on...
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News Reviews

Bullitt Mustang to be Auctioned

The car chase in 1968’s Bullitt is considered by many to be the best of all time. That’s a big call, but it is the granddaddy of the modern car chase and its location on the steep streets of San Francisco makes it pretty thrilling. The Ford Mustang used in the film has cult status and its whereabouts was a mystery until just last year. Now the iconic GT Fastback is going to be sold.
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Feebates, Fuel Efficiency and Singapore

As you’ve probably heard by now the government is proposing a new “Clean Car Discount” scheme on imported new and used cars. In simple terms the feebate scheme will be a levy on less efficient cars and a rebate on more efficient cars. This will mean that NZ’s most popular new car, the Ford Ranger, will incur a one-off levy of $2250 while the most fuel efficient hybrids would get rebates up to $6800 and EVs receiving up to $8000. And it won’t just be EVs and Hybrids getting rebates, small cars such as Swifts and Corollas will also be subsidised. The feebate will only be applied once - when a vehicle is sold for the first time after being imported - from 2021.
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Beautiful Bargain

Alfa Romeo’s entry into the super-mini race has an air of sophistication and exclusivity that comes with the famous Italian brand. And while critics were quick to point out that the Mito was not in the class of BMW’s Mini in terms of performance and handling you could also argue that the Mito wins on looks and style. And the price is important too, and this 2012 example is as cheap as a slice of margarita pizza. Read on...
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News Reviews

Vanishing Point on Steroids

The original Dodge Challenger was one of the all-time great movie cars so it’s not surprising Chrysler decided to revive the legend. This latest version doesn’t mess about in standard trim but the Hellcat version is completely bonkers...and we mean that in a good way. Read more...
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News Reviews Classic Cars

Brains above Beauty

If you live anywhere where parking is tight, traffic is usually slow and petrol is expensive then the Mitsubishi i-Car shouldn’t be overlooked. Most, however, will overlook it because it’s small (we do love big cars) and it looks a little nerdy or something your grandma would drive. But if you let your brain overrule your heart this 2008 example makes good sense at $3990. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Man Behind the Mustang rides off into the Sunset

Last week saw one of the American motor industry’s biggest stars depart the stage for the last time at the age of 94. He was the man behind Ford’s incredibly successful Mustang as well as the Chrysler Minivan, the original American people-mover.
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Your First Car

Like a first kiss, many will remember their first car, sometimes fondly, sometimes not so much. The truth is, when you were young you were a bit more forgiving; less fussy. What we expected from a car was freedom and something that got us to our destinations, at least most of the time. The kiss was likely the same.
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Wolves in Sheep Clothing

Ever since Volkswagen and Peugeot started sprinkling performance gold dust on their shopping basket hatchbacks in the mid-1980s the “hot hatch” segment has become one of the most fun. These two mid-2000s examples, available now at Turners, are thrilling pint-sized bargains. Read on...
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News Reviews

The Future is Now

When you mention the words Hybrid or Electric you often get shunned by car purists. Or you are told how they’d never be seen dead in one. But seriously, have you seen the price of fuel lately? And for your daily commute what more do you really need? Turners have a large selection of Hybrids and full Electrics available right now. Read on...
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News Reviews

Mighty Mouse

For the uninitiated, the Riley Elf is basically a Mini with a slightly bigger boot, more chrome and a bit more “luxury”. But despite the upmarket extras, the Elf is often seen as the poorer cousin to the Mini despite its cute looks and Mini driving appeal. This fine looking example could be the affordable ticket to classic Mini ownership. Read on...
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News Reviews Classic Cars Maintenance

Big Hair and Shoulder Pads Required

The SL class Mercs have always been a favorite of wealthy scenesters and movie stars since they first appeared in 1954 with the gorgeous (and insanely valuable) SL300 Gullwing. This NZ new 600SL from 1995 may not command the massive money of the early cars (yet) but surely that’s a good reason to get in now. Read on...
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News Classic Cars

Is the FTO a Forgotten JDM Gem?

In the nineties, the Mitsubishi FTO was quite a looker with decent performance to boot. But over the years, as many got old and shabby, they are more likely remembered as a beat-up Japanese import with a space-saver on the right front, a WOF that expired years ago and a science experiment interior. There are few survivors but Turners Napier has this really nice one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Are You a Backseat Driver?

Do you find yourself stamping on an imaginary brake pedal with enough force to put a dent in the passenger side footwell? Do you engage in acts of road rage on your driver’s behalf? If you answered yes then you’re a backseat driver. If you answered no then you might still be. The list of backseat driving offenses is long. Read on...
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News

Good Business

Whatever your views on the current crop of electric vehicles this Nissan E-NV200 all-electric small van makes a decent case for a small business. If you need to make deliveries around town then this van makes sense, and it’s not just the fuel savings. Read on...
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News Reviews

The End of a Long Gone Era

Willys is probably best known for its military jeeps used by the US Armed Forces in WW2. But before that, they had made passenger cars and after a few post-war years of making Jeeps for farmers, they got back into building cars culminating in the 1950s Willys Aero cars. This Willys Custom from the last year of production is part of next week’s classic auction. Read on...
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News Classic Cars

Back to the Future and Back Again

The Nissan Figaro has achieved that rare distinction of being retro twice over. When it came out in 1991 it was designed to look like a car from 30 years earlier. Now as it closes in on 30 years of age it has become a classic in its own right, or double retro I suppose. This very tidy example is being auctioned online now and closes tomorrow. Read on...
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Auctions Classic Cars

It’s got Ferrari in its Veins

When you get past the tired old “fix it again Tony” and “rust bucket” comments (as if somehow every other car from the 70s was reliable and rust free) you realise there’s much to like about Fiat’s X19. And this one owner example is coming up in our Classic auction. Read on...
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Reviews Classic Cars

Pretty Peugeot

For so long Peugeot seemed to get lost in its own sea of mediocrity. Everything was dull and boring or just not particularly good. Then they finally surfaced with the stunning RCZ coupe and all seemed better. This NZ new example is available to buy right now. Read on...
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News

When Two Worlds Collide

It may look like a terrible accident where a motorcycle has rear-ended a mini resulting in catastrophic injuries for the occupants of both vehicles. But a closer inspection reveals this unnatural coupling may have been deliberately put together, and it’s up for auction. Read on...
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News Classic Cars

Our guide to buying a good car on a budget

Buying a used car on a limited budget can be risky but not all of us can spend $15,000 on a car. Here are some tips to help reduce the risk and get the best car you can afford.
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Crystal-Balling Future Classics

With Turners Christchurch gearing up for another classic auction next month it’s a timely reminder that many of today’s desirable classics were once ordinary, unloved or just plain unfashionable daily transport. Sure, some cars were classics the day they rolled out of the factory, but most of those were eye wateringly expensive then and even more so now. But what if you had $20k to invest in a future classic?
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Field of Broken Dreams

It’s a sight you see all over New Zealand – fields of old abandoned cars slowly returning to the earth in the form of ferric oxide. However, it’s not often that these fields contain anything more exotic than a Morris Minor van. But this American paddock contains nothing but exotics and it’s a bit distressing for petrolheads to look at.
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News Classic Cars Maintenance

Going Bush?

If you love the outdoors, maybe a bit of hunting or fishing, and are not fazed by a flat-packed set of Ikea furniture then the Ezytrail Stirling LX camper is a must-have accessory. It’s available now – some assembly required. Read on...
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News

Want to sell your classic but don’t want the hassle?

Do you have a classic car that you’ve been meaning to sell? Maybe it doesn’t get as much use as it deserves or maybe you want to buy something else or need the money to fix the daily driver. Whatever the reason it makes sense to enter it into our next classic auction on 15th June. Read on...
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News

Rivian Electric Ute on its way?

New Zealanders love their utes. The once sole domain of tradies and farmers has become the family car of choice for many and they constantly top our sales charts. But with EVs starting to make more sense with every fossil fuel price rise, will the popular ute be an option in the future? Well Rivian has you covered - more than covered actually. Read on...
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News

The Small BMW with BIG Power

BMW’s 1 Series is normally associated with the small hatchback that’s a bit posher than a Corolla. Then there’s the pretty 135i coupe with a bigger engine that’s quite quick. And then there’s this insane twin turbo, 335hp beast known as the 1M. It’s rare, fast and sexy – and it’s coming up for auction. Read on...
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News Reviews

Jurassic Jeep

As replica movie cars go this 1997 Jeep Wrangler is pretty good. Sure there are differences between the 1993 movie Jeeps and this one but only the sharpest of movie/car buffs will notice as you whizz by. This one is available now at Turners Tauranga. Read on...
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News Reviews

Winter Maintenance

Let’s face it, winter is nearly here and if there’s anything that makes a cold winter worse it’s a car that won’t start or breaks down or tries to kill you on a wet road. But you can probably prevent many of these problems without too much fuss...preferably before winter hits proper.
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Out with the New and in with the Nearly New

If you were lucky enough to be in a position to buy a new car in New Zealand 60 years ago you could sell it for a profit six months later. Today, a new car will depreciate the moment you drive it off the lot. So if you can buy a car that’s not long left the dealership you could save yourself a decent chunk of money that you could use for something else, something fun.
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1000 Miles Per and 135,000hp - 9th April 2019

You may think your rotary powered BMW is quick but if the Bloodhound LSR achieves its goal of 1000mph (1609kph) then “quick” will officially be redefined. Read on...
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News Reviews

Tougher than an Overcooked Steak-5th April 2019

If you need a car for your daily commute then this Jeep Wrangler Unlimited will be perfect for you...if your commute involves war zones, mountains or boulder strewn muddy fields. It will also be perfect if you are into mountaineering but prefer doing it on four wheels. This near new example is available now. Read on...
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News Reviews

Nissan Gives Original Godzilla a Boost - 1st April 2019

The Nissan Skyline GT-R is officially a classic. Prices have been going through the roof as good ones get harder to find. But the problem for many classics is the supply of decent quality new parts but not anymore for early Godzilla owners. Nissan is here to help you. Read on...
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News Reviews

Pedigree Cat for Moggy Money- 29th March 2019

This Jaguar XF-S is a pedigree cat for moggy money but your neighbours won’t know, all they’ll see is you driving a Jag and assume you’ve moved up in the world. Read on...
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News Reviews

Pretty Posh for not much Dosh - 26th March 2019

The Porsche Boxter’s design may be ageless but with an auction estimate under $8k for this example, times have certainly changed. The very idea you could own a Porsche with a mid-mounted flat six engine that emits that instantly recognisable Porsche growl for the price of high mileage Hyundai would be unthinkable a few years ago. Now could be the time to live the dream. Read on...
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News Reviews

The First Maserati SUV - 19th March 2019

The famous Italian name of Maserati conjures up images of Grand Prix racing, sports cars, and luxury grand tourers but in 2016 it belatedly joined the SUV arms race with the Levante. This low mileage, NZ new example from 2017 is your chance to get one at a substantial discount over a new one. Read on...
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News Reviews

Utes clean up in the Classic auction - 15th March 2019

It was all about the Utes last Saturday at Turners classic auction in Christchurch. Not only are utes the modern vehicle of choice for New Zealanders we also have a love of the old ones, especially if they’re Australian. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Teenage Kicks- 8th March 2019

Outwardly it looks like it was inspired by a drawing made by a teenage boy with a ruler and a compass during a Social Studies class. But underneath the fourth generation Honda Civic Type R’s skin is a mad masterpiece. This low mileage example awaits you at Turners. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions

Come on a Safari With Me

It’s huge, will devour petrol like a rugby team in a brewery, and need a garage the size of a small house to park in. But this 1972 Pontiac Catalina Safari is extremely cool and if you had to find one sensible thing about it, the price expectation might just be it. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Before the Ranger - 4th March 2019

With the Ford Ranger being NZ’s biggest selling car for the last few years it’s hard to drive anywhere in standard car without having your view blocked by one. But long before the Ranger, when utes were driven by blokes called Bruce and women called Nancy, there was the Ford Mainline, and you didn’t use it to go shopping at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Viva La Classic Car Auction - 26th February 2019

The next Turners classic auction takes place in Christchurch on 9th March and the line up is already looking pretty tasty. But one car in particular has caught my eye and it’s a Vauxhall Viva. Yes, that’s right, the car your mum or Grandma drove when you were a kid, only this one has teeth and bonnet scoops. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Formula One in its DNA - 18th February, 2019

Before you right it off as “just a Renault” there’s something you need to consider. In 2006 Fernando Alonso won the F1 world championship in a Renault, who also won the constructors title. It was also the year Renault’s sporting division released the Clio 197. Renault Sport was on fire and this car is a 194hp beast for chump change. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Ford Reveals it’s V8 Supercar Mustang

You may be wondering why Scott Mclaughlin’s new Mustang V8 Supercar looks so different from an actual Mustang. With its droopy snout, bigger windscreen and side glass, slightly squashed body and longer tail you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s not really a Mustang at all. And you’d be right.
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Only in New Zealand

New Zealand’s history of designing and mass manufacturing cars is brief to say the least. There was the Trekka and, well, that was it really. However, we did once have a rich history of assembling cars, and some pretty important ones at that. We built up VW Beetles, Fiat 500s (or Bambina in NZ only), Minis, Corollas, even Vespas, and many, many more.
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Seat of the Pants Driving - 11th February, 2019

This pint sized supercar has pin-up good looks, goes even better, and has a Toyota engine which means it won’t be as fragile as your typical highly strung supercar. Also, like a supercar, it’s lightweight, fast, noisy, uncomfortable and bags of ridiculous fun. Read on...
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News Reviews

From Another Planet? 31st January, 2019

We are used to supercars having unique, aggressive styling but the BMW i8 looks like it came from outer space, or the future. Indeed, it is likely that the i8 represents the future of supercars. Gone is the screaming V12 with an insatiable thirst for fossil fuels and in its place lies something that sounds, on paper at least, like it would be more at home in nana’s hatchback. On the road, however... Turners Penrose are selling one of these incredible cars. Read on...
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Mmmmm 3 – 29th January, 2019

The BMW M3 is a motoring legend and this 2014 F80 M3 lives up to that heady status. From its carbon fibre roof and driveshaft plus aluminium front panels to its twin turbocharged straight six engine and trick 7 speed M-DCT transmission this M3, like those before it, is all about speed. It’s stunningly fast but comfortable, too. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

It Bites - 22nd January, 2019

The Porsche Cayman gets its name from a small alligator that will bite your face off given half a chance. It’s also the name of rubber clog style footwear made by Crocs. Don’t get them mixed up. One is functional, comfortable and fun and the other is ugly footwear. Slip your feet into this one. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Time for a (near) New Car?

It’s that time of year when you trudge back to work after an all too brief Christmas break. The traffic hasn’t got any better, your inbox is horrifyingly full and your car feels like it has indulged more than you over the break – older, shabbier and less enthusiastic. It might be time for a new car but new cars cost the most. However, a near new car makes sense. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

New Year, New Car - 9th January, 2019

If your New Year’s resolution was to buy a new car that’s fast then this BMW E60 M5 ticks one of those boxes – the most important one. It’s not new but who cares when it’s this fast? It has a 10 cylinder engine that pumps out 500hp and was the fastest four door sedan in the world when released. It’s also about the price of a new Holden Barina. Read on...
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Last Minute Xmas Shopping - 20th December, 2018

There’s an unwritten rule when buying gifts for the significant other in your life – anything that represents chores is off-limits. Ironing boards, hedge trimmers, vacuum cleaners, weed sprayers, just don’t go there. The same applies when buying them a car as a gift. Don’t get them something dreary to drive to work in, pick up kids from school in or take rubbish to the tip in. Get them something fun, like this Toyota MR-S. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Mobile Mansion - 17th December, 2018

There’s been recent talk of lowering speed limits on some of our roads but if you want to take direct action then this 25 foot long 1979 Oxford caravan is sure to slow traffic behind you wherever you tow it this summer. As caravans go this is a mansionvan with all the questionable tastes of 1979 interior design still very much intact. Read on...
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A Bargain Future Classic? 14th December, 2018

Playing the “Future Classic” game is tricky but with this 2005 low mileage Mazda RX8 it could be a game worth playing for two reasons. Firstly, pretty much every rotary powered Mazda has become collectible and has increased in value over time so the future should be bright for the RX8. Secondly, these are simply really good cars at low prices that’ll be fun to own and drive. So is there a downside?
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Reviews Auctions

Big Crowd for the Classics - 11th December, 2018

Saturday’s classic auction at Turners Christchurch was a resounding success with some standout performers being snapped up by the large crowd in the room as well as many more bidding online. Here are a few of the highlights. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

You’re Ready for a Holiday but is Your Car?

It’s been a long year and you’re ready for a holiday. But it has also been a long year for your car. So is it in need of some loving before you hit the long hot NZ summer holiday period?
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Christmas Gifts for the Car Nuts in Your Life

As is traditional with our December issue of the Good Oil we take a look at some automotive related gifts - good and bad - for the car mad people in your life. As with Newton’s third law of motion “For every action there is always an equal and opposite reaction” the same can be said of gifts. For every useful and thoughtful gift there is a useless and thoughtless gift. Let’s carefully tiptoe our way through this minefield.
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What is Santa Bringing you for Christmas? 4th December, 2018

If you’re into your classic and thoroughbred cars then Christmas is coming early at Turners Christchurch this Saturday. This auction line-up has some pretty rare and desirable cars as well as some entry level classic beauties. It’s a live auction which you can follow, and participate in, online. Come Christmas day you could have something very special under the tree to drive...I mean open. Read on...
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Auctions Classic Cars

Surely the Cheapest 500 in NZ - 27th November, 2018

The new Fiat 500 is bigger, more powerful, more refined, safer and faster than the original Bambina. But this 2010 Lounge JTD is available to buy at $6990, or around half the price of a decent vintage one. It’d make a great Christmas prezzy for someone, too. Read more...
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Near New for Old Money - 20th November, 2018

In these days of rising fuel prices an SUV might have less appeal than it once did. But this Suzuki SX-4 S-Cross Prestige has SUV looks and size without the wallet withering big engine. And this 2017, top of the range example has an auction estimate of half the price of a new one. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Mini With Max Power - 16th November, 2018

In 2006 the Mini Works GP was the fastest Mini ever factory produced and only 2000 were made for the whole world. If ever a car screamed “future Classic” it’s this one. It’s not just a Mini Cooper S with a few extra horsepower thrown in; it’s a road-going track car with some very special kit. Read on...
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A Triumph of Substance and Style - 13th November, 2018

The Triumph Bonneville Bobber could have been a fashion exercise with little in the way of substance. But in actual fact Triumph delivered a retro themed bike that delivered on more than just looks. This near new example has travelled a tiny 58kms and it’s for sale now. Read on...
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When Bigger Really is Better - 9th November, 2018

If you need a big van then the Mercedes Sprinter 516 with high roof and long wheel base is hard to beat. Bigger is better when it comes to a cargo van and the big Merc has one of the biggest payloads available in a van and it can haul up to 2495kg in its cavernous interior. Read on...
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A Rare Survivor - 6th November, 2018

Take a one owner, early example of one of the worlds all-time best selling cars, mix in the more desirable coupe body shell, sprinkle with incredibly low mileage and garnish with original plastic protection still on the door cards. This is the recipe for a very rare and desirable dish being served up by Turners Napier. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

This Fat Cat’s Been Working Out - 2nd November, 2018

Some see the XJ series Jaguars as fusty, heavy luxo-barges for ferrying around royalty. And that’s not entirely unfair. But it does have timeless, even elegant, looks and in the XJR it has some serious power gains and weight loss. This old fat cat has been to the gym and it hunts Audis and Beemers for lunch. It’s also a dead-set bargain. Read on...
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Miniature Pony - 31st October, 2018

Most people associate the Ford Mustang with a V8 but in these times of soaring fuel prices a six cylinder Mustang doesn’t seem like a bad idea. Luckily Ford made a smaller engined Mustang and due to the preference to the V8 it can often be picked up for a song. This bone stock ’65 is just such a car. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

When Porsche Turned Air into Water - 26th October, 2018

In 1997 Porsche rocked the lives of 911 officianados the world over by completely redesigning the company’s biggest icon and fitting a water-cooled engine. The new 911 had the internal designation 996 and it was designed by a chap called Pinky Lai. It was the first major design overhaul of the 911 since it first wowed the world in 1963. It was controversial and Turners has this ’99 Carrera for auction next week. Read on...
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A Classic Spectacle – 24th October, 2018

On Saturday the 13th October in Christchurch the auction of the late Gary McVicar’s amazing collection of classic cars proved again that there’s nothing quite like a live event to make the sale of unique items more satisfying and exciting. More than 600 buyers registered onsite, over $1 million was spent and all but one car sold. Read on...
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Classic Cars

The Supercar for the Whole Family - 12th October, 2018

The BMW E60 M5 is a supercar for the whole family at a very un-supercar price. It has a 10 cylinder engine that pumps out 500hp and was the fastest four door sedan in the world when released. It also has plenty of room for the kids and a couple of dogs, all of which will be truly excited/terrified every time you hit the loud pedal. Read on...
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Any Colour as long as it’s Black? 9th October, 2018

The oldest car at this Saturday’s classic car auction in Leithfield is also one of the most important. The Ford Model T took the car from a hand built luxury item for the wealthy to a mass produced ‘must have’ for middle class Americans. If you’re into cars then you have to acknowledge the Model T as the most influential car in history. Wouldn’t it be great to own one? Read on...
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The Handsome Ferrari

When you think of Ferrari you think two seats, mid-mounted engine, low to the ground and pretty. But in the late 70s Ferrari decided to dabble in the grand tourer market and the result was 4 seats, a front mounted V12 and looks that are more handsome than pretty. This rare car is being auctioned on October 13th. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

1928 Auburn 88 Speedster

The 1928 Auburn 88 Speedster is undoubtedly the star attraction of the upcoming Classic Car Auction to be held in Christchurch on October 13 on account of the Estate of Gary McVicar who was a prominent businessman involved in the timber industry. This auction, being run by Turners Cars will feature an amazing variety of rare and interesting classics that Gary McVicar had accumulated before his death approximately four years ago.
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Auctions Classic Cars

Coveted Collection to be Auctioned - 1st October, 2018

Gary McVicar’s head may have been in the timber business but his heart was clearly in Steel as is evidenced by his amazing collection of classic cars. He had a good eye for quality and a true passion for all things automotive. Sadly, Gary passed away in 2014 and the collection is being auctioned this month. It will be a rare opportunity to acquire some very rare and desirable vehicles. Read on...
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Auctions Classic Cars

Subaru’s Wacky Wedge - 25th September, 2018

It was a sales flop in its day - maybe it was before its time, maybe after its time – and that means not many rolled off the assembly line. In fact only 7000 right hand drive SVXs were built and the tiniest handful were sold new in NZ. So it’s rare but does this mean Subaru’s luxury wedge will one day be desirable? Well as punts go, this one might be worth taking. Read on...
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Financially Challenged Person’s Porsche - 19th September, 2018

The quintessential classic Porsche is the 911 but if you are looking for a classic Porka on a skinny budget then the 911 may as well be a pet Unicorn – they simply don’t exist on a skinny budget. But there’s always Plan B: one of Porsche’s less glamorous front engine models, and preferably the strangely attractive 944, like this one. Read on...
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Auctions Classic Cars

Incredible Impala - 11th September, 2018

With spring upon us the time for finishing, or indeed starting, that “winter project” may have passed. But with a summer of car shows such as Beach Hop to look forward to maybe life’s too short for completing that project anyway. Maybe, rather than spending $60k on that restoration project you should maybe just spend $50k on one that’s already done. Like this one. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Summer is Coming - 7th September, 2018

It may not seem like it but summer is coming and it won’t be long before the roof of your convertible will be folded back on a daily basis. Of course that’s only if you own one. There are few better affordable soft top sports cars than the Mazda MX-5 and this 2006 model is potentially the bargain to kick you into a top down summer. Read on...
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Stylish, Frugal, Clever and Cheap - 4th September, 2018

The headline with Fiat’s TwinAir Panda is ‘frugality’ but there’s so much more to this stylish Italian city car. With Petrol prices on the rise and the addition of regional fuel taxes the opportunity to buy a two cylinder, 875cc Fiat is pretty timely. And this clever Panda is not expensive either, in fact it’s positively cheap. Read on...
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Stings Like a Bee - 30th August, 2018

It may look like an angry German bumble bee but the Porsche Cayman actually gets its name from a small alligator that will chew your face off given half a chance. And that probably suits the Cayman. It looks like a scaled down version of the 911, but it’s still got sharp teeth and it will bite. This one is champing at the bit to find a new owner. Read on...
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Game Changers

With Tesla’s Model 3 making its first appearance in NZ this month and Hyundai’s new fully electric Kona on sale now it appears EVs are likely to be the latest automotive game changer. So we thought we’d look back on some of the other automotive game changers that significantly altered the motoring landscape.
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The Bug that Caused a Stink and Created an Opportunity

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is a small critter about the size of a 10 cent coin and will yield easily to the downward pressure of a size 9 boot. However, a bunch of them managed to push several container ships carrying imported cars to NZ all the way back to Japan.
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Vantastic - 27th August, 2018

Some may be surprised to find that there’s a market for classic vans but there certainly is and the first generation Ford Transit is one to watch. With old VW Kombis commanding stratospheric prices these old Transits look like a bit of a bargain. And usually being a hard living commercial vehicle this may be one of the best left out there. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Call it a Come Back - 17th August, 2018

Alfa Romeo once gave us cars like the stunning 33 Stradale and were part of the motoring elite but over the years and regular management changes they lost their way. Sure there have been some decent cars but there has been some average and terrible ones, too. So the 4C Coupe is a welcome sight, and what a sight it is. Alfa brought back some of their swagger with the 4C and you can own this one. Read on...
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For the Smart Summer Buyer - 14th August, 2018

Winter may seem like an odd time to buy a convertible but actually the best time to buy a sunny day car is after a long stretch of cold, wet, windy, short days - the sort of days you’d never have the top down on your convertible. That’s why this 2009, NZ New Audi A5 Quattro is a good idea right now. Why? Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

Vanishing Point Revisited - 10th August, 2018

The original Dodge Challenger was one of the all-time great movie cars so it’s not surprising Chrysler decided to revive the legend. This 2011 R/T at Turners Wellington is a limited Hurst edition with just 26,000kms on the clock. So what does the “Hurst” bit mean and why do you want one? Read on...
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Beautiful Bogans - 7th August, 2018

Of the Aussie classics of the seventies the Chrysler Valiant is perhaps the one that is still a bit undervalued compared to the big Holden and Ford competitors from the era. Still, good ones are few and far between so finding two for sale in such fantastic original condition presents a rare opportunity to invest in a car still on an upward curve. Read on...
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Limo with a Price that’s not a Stretch - 30th July, 2018

This Ex-NZ Government limo was sold by Turners back in 2011. Then, with 90,000kms on the clock, it sold for around $40k. Today, having covered only a few more kilometres, it could be yours for $14,990. Long gone is the lingering odour of Peter Dunne’s hairspray or Judith Collins’s perfume but the history remains and it could all be yours. Read on...
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Yes, I do own the road actually - 27th July, 2018

It’s the size of an ocean liner, has a 6.8 litre engine that runs on the sweat and tears of the great unwashed and is quite difficult to park. But none of this matters as you’ll have a driver to deal with the tricky stuff while you sit in the back seat plotting another corporate takeover whilst savouring a very fine single malt whisky. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions

514 Angry Horses - 24th July, 2018

In 2006 the Mercedes E63 AMG was THE heavy hitter in the world of super sedans. It out powered the BMW M5, made the Audi S6 feel a bit puny, and it spanked the Holden HSV E-Series. It was insanely powerful and fast and would empty your bank account to the tune of around $200k. So when you see one with an auction estimate of $7500-$8500 you sit up and pay attention. Read on...
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Mint Mini - 20th July, 2018

Time takes its toll on nearly every car. Wet winters, less than caring owners, rough roads and high miles finish most cars off inside 20 years. But every now and then a survivor pops up that defies time. At 41 years old this 1977 Mini 1000 looks like it has been drinking from the fountain of youth, and you can buy it. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Cute Coupe - 16th July, 2018

Turners Christchurch has an interesting selection of classics being auctioned at the moment but it’s this pretty Alfa GTV that catches the eye. It’s the right colour combination, has the right wheels and, for the driver, arguably the best engine. And it’s being sold with no reserve. Read on...
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France or Croatia for the win? 13th July, 2018

The Football World Cup final takes place on Monday morning so we thought I’d dig through the Turners website for some interesting French and Croatian cars for sale right now (I’d been counting on an England win for this post obviously). Here are three of the best and, strangely, they are all French. Read on...
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News Reviews

You can Lead a Horse to Water... 10th July, 2018

This 2016 Ford Mustang GT Fastback went for a swim and nearly drowned. Are your life guarding skills good enough to resuscitate this once proud steed or has the fresh water inundation spelled curtains on its short life? Read on...
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Nearly New and Nearly All Gone - 6th July, 2018

Why buy new when you can buy nearly new? Turners has eight 2017 BMW X5s that you can buy right now. They are exactly one year old, have very low kilometres, loads of warranty and are many thousands of dollars cheaper than new. They are also selling faster than the German football team’s World Cup exit. Read on...
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Reviews

They DO make ‘em like they used to - 2nd July, 2018

Never has the phrase “they don’t make ‘em like they used to” been more wrong than when it’s applied to a 2016 Royal Enfield motorcycle. Sure it has been updated in a few areas but essentially this Royal Enfield Classic 350 is not much different to the original 1948 Bullet model making it the longest running motorcycle design in history.
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The Velvet Hammer - 28th June, 2018

Where the Audi RS4 looks like a comfortable family car that belies its brutal performance, the RS5 coupe looks like it could be quite fast and it really, seriously is. But it still has an understated elegance that hides some of its true nature; a velvet hammer if you like. Read on...
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K Pop Chart Toppers - 25th June, 2018

A few short years ago Korean brands were looked down on by car buyers who saw them as inferior. And, to be fair, who can forget the awful Daewoo Nubira or the Hyundai Pony? But in J.D Powers latest American new car customer satisfaction survey Korean manufacturers took out the top three spots. Read on...
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Holy Horsepower, Batman - 20th June, 2018

Mazda’s third generation RX7, or Batmobile as it is commonly known, is probably the best looking of the series and came from the factory with a decent number of horses (around 250) galloping out of the 13B rotary engine. But for some that was merely a small gathering of ponies when nothing short of a herd of wild stallions would do. Like this one at Turner North shore. Read on...
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News Reviews

Famous Footballer Cars of the past

With the Football World Cup kicking off in Russia and the crazy pre-season transfer market in full swing we are once again reminded how much today’s football superstars get paid and the outrageous cars many of them insist on driving. Christiano Ronaldo has $11 million dollars worth of exotic motors, Lionel Messi also has an impressive supercar garage, and John Terry collects Ferraris. But what about the superstars of the past? What did they drive?
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Fuel effeciency

Petrol vs Diesel.  Hybrid vs Electric Vehicle. Ever wanted to know whether petrol or diesel vehicles will get you more for your money? There's so much to consider when buying a vehicle, with fuel efficiency just being the start...
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Avoiding Pressure at the Pump

With fuel prices at a four year high and regional fuel taxes on the way it might be time to look at your car’s drinking habits. Is it a quiet sipper or is it a heavy drinker with a taste for the top shelf stuff? If it’s the latter then is it time for a change?
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One for the Ambulance Chasers - 11th June, 2018

If any vehicle carries good Karma then it has to be an ambulance. Sure a few passengers may have shuffled off this mortal coil in the back but many more will have been saved, comforted and reassured on their way to hospital. So it may have covered a few kilometres (not as many as some) but they’ve all been travelled for the greater good of Humanity. Read on...
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Cat in a Camaro - 8th June, 2018

You will probably have heard the story of the Auckland cat that survived a 4.5 hour trip stuck behind the grill of a Chevy Camaro this week. There are a couple of questions that need to be answered here: Ford fans will be asking how a Chev managed to drive non-stop for 360kms? But more importantly, why was the cat there in the first place? Well this scenario is not that rare at this time of year so read on...
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News

Panda Cub - 6th June, 2018

Well I guess it looks like a Panda if you squint...or close your eyes. But the headline with Fiat’s TwinAir Panda is ‘frugality’. With Petrol prices on the rise and regional fuel taxes coming into play the opportunity to buy a two cylinder, 875cc Fiat is pretty timely. And this clever Panda is not expensive either. Read on...
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Quick Posh for not much Dosh - 1st June, 2018

If you want fast posh but don’t have a lot of dosh then this could be for you. And this Porsche Cayenne is more than just a trinket to impress the neighbours, despite its meagre price tag. This Cayenne is the 4.8L V8 Turbo for the price of a used Corolla. Read on...
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Stone Wash Denim Compulsory - 29th May, 2018

The eighties were the era of stone wash denim, Ocean Pacific tank tops, poodle hair and digital dashboards and the fourth generation C4 Corvette fits in with this era perfectly. It couldn’t be any more eighties if the stereo only played ‘Hot for Teacher’ by Van Halen on repeat. This one is coming up for sale at Turners Hamilton soon. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Pinky’s Porsche - 22nd May, 2018

In 1997 Porsche rocked the lives of 911 officianados the world over by completely redesigning the company’s biggest icon and fitting a water-cooled engine. The new 911 had the internal designation 996 and it was designed by a chap called Pinky Lai. It was the first major design overhaul of the 911 since it first wowed the world in 1963. It was controversial and Turners has this one for sale right now. Read on...
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Bavarian Beauty - 18th May, 2018

At first glance you have to admit that the E89 BMW Z4 is a very pretty car. The new retractable hardtop gives it a more aggressive and flowing look than the old model. And although this car is the base model there’s none of that crushing disappointment you got when you lifted the long bonnet of the previous base model and were faced with a – shock, horror - 4 cylinder lump. No, this car has the straight six that we all know and love about BMW. Read on...
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Banana Smoothy - 15th May, 2018

Mazda’s MX-5 has long been the benchmark in small, fun, reliable ragtop sports cars but there is more than one way to skin a banana and this little mid-engine Toyota MR-S has a different, but no less effective, take on things. It’s available to buy right now. Read on...
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Oh La La - 11th May, 2018

Okay, so it’s a Renault and it’s a Megane, the standard version of which is a pretty average car despite the quirky looks. But the Megane RS 225 is an altogether different beast. It’s fast, handles brilliantly and the bang for buck ratio is pretty high with this one being sold by Turners Hamilton. Read on...
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Blowing in the Wind - 7th May, 2018

The Scirocco is a Mediterranean hot wind emanating from the Sahara desert. It’s also a Volkswagen coupe that’s also hot wind powered – sort of – in the form of a turbocharger AND a supercharger. This example may only have a small engine but it’s quick, strangely attractive and potentially a fantastic bargain. Read on...
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Suits You Sir - 1st May, 2018

Leather upholstery hand stitched by goddesses using thread made from the hair of baby pandas, a boot larger than many Auckland apartments and wood trim made from a walnut tree planted by God himself are just some of the features of this Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. And it’s being sold at Turners Christchurch this week...Read on
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The Name’s Martin, Aston Martin - 24th April, 2018

Where other Supercars are the equivalent of a gold medallion nestled on a hairy chest, Aston Martins ooze class and just a touch of restraint. They’re hardly ‘understated’ but where an Italian Supercar’s V12 engine screams like a character from a teen horror movie the Aston’s V12 roar has a slight plum in its mouth. And that’s why James Bond drives an Aston and Magnum PI drives a Ferrari. Read on...
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Classy Italian - 20th April, 2018

A 400hp V8, a top speed of 270kph and 0-100kph in 5.6 seconds, and the comfort of an interior that feels like a classy Italian lounge bar. This 2006 Maserati Quattroporte is an exotic grand tourer for a very un-exotic price. Read on...
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Winter Maintenance

Let’s face it, winter is nearly here and if there’s anything that makes a cold winter worse it’s a car that won’t start or breaks down or tries to kill you on a wet road. But you can probably prevent many of these problems without too much fuss...preferably before winter hits proper.
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Best Buys on a Budget

For many of us, buying a brand new car is not an option and a near new car is still beyond the constraints of our current budget. But the thing is, there are many good cars out there for the budget conscious, it’s just a matter of identifying them. So let’s take a look at a cross section of makes and models that can be snagged for $6000 - $8000 that will give you good value for your hard earned money. Of course one person’s value for money will be different to another’s. Some will value reliability and fuel economy above all else, some will sacrifice some running costs for speed and power, while others will seek prestige with loads of fruity extras and be prepared to compromise a little on reliability and economy. So with this in mind here are just a few examples that cover the bases but
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Munted Midget - 16th April, 2018

This classic 1970 MG Midget is a sad and sorry sight. What looks to have recently been a superb example of this British classic has since had some of its panel work forcefully realigned. Is it curtains for the little nipper or can it be saved? Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Low Key Limo - 10th April, 2018

If you are an important person in Japan, such as the Prime Minister, then chances are you get ferried around in a Toyota Century. This 2006 model is hard to distinguish from an original 1967 model, but under the bonnet sits some rare Japanese V12 madness. If you want to look important while having your butt massaged then read on...
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As American as Coca Cola and Twinkies - 6th April, 2018

The Ranger may be top of the charts in NZ but the big daddy of pick-ups is Ford’s F series. It has been the biggest selling car in America since dinosaurs roamed the planet. Currently Ford sells 41 billion dollars worth of F Series trucks every year yet they are a comparatively rare sight on NZ roads. This one hails from the lone star state of Texas and it really is a thing of functional beauty.
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Life’s a Gas - 28th March, 2018

For most of us a standard Subaru WRX will fulfil our need for speed and perhaps even exceed it. But if you’re one of those maniacs who feel a standard WRX lacks punch then this Kiwi new WRX in 555 blue that’s huffing the laughing gas could be just the thing to bring a smile to your face. Read on...
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My Little Pony - 23rd March, 2018

With the four cylinder engine from the Focus RS the Mustang 2.3 Ecoboost seems at odds with what we’ve come to expect from the iconic pony car. That is, a V8 engine, the V8 rumble and the wallet emptying fuel consumption. But before you right it off as “not a real Mustang” there is much to admire about this little pony. Read on...
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This Firebird has the Sizzle - 21st March, 2018

By American standards the 1971 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 is a very rare car. Only 7802 were built in ‘71 and with the passing of 47 tough years most of those have no doubt succumbed to the ravages of time. Not this one though. Oh no, this one is something really quite special and you can buy it. Read on...
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Bargain Beemer - 15th March, 2018

This BMW 330D is just two years old with a mere 25,000kms on the clock and has an auction guide price somewhere in the vicinity of a new base model Toyota Camry. However, unlike the Camry the BMW has bags of power as well as excellent fuel economy plus more features than you can shake a stick at and snob value in spades. Read on...
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It Will be Triumphant Again - 13th March, 2018

A few years ago this forlorn looking 1972 Triumph GT6 would’ve been sent to the crusher. But today there are few left of these baby E-Types and this one is sure to be saved from that fate. Of all the Triumph sports cars of the 60s and 70s the GT6 is perhaps the prettiest, and this mark 3 version is possibly the best of the lot. Read on...
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Better than a Porsche? 9th March, 2018

Say what you like about Jaguars being stuffy, unreliable and with cliff-face depreciation but the F-Type is an absolute stunner to look at from any angle, sounds epic and goes like a cat chasing a rat, too. This one is seriously well priced and looks incredible. Read on...
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A Big Van for the Big Jobs - 6th March, 2018

If you need a big van then the Mercedes Sprinter 313 with high roof and long wheel base is hard to beat. But that size and the three pointed star don’t come cheap. However, this one offers potential savings in the thousands of dollars. Read on...
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Quick Quattro - 26th February, 2018

Stuck in the wilderness of not yet classic and not really modern this 2003 B6 Audi S4 Avant still cuts a handsome figure and sports an attractive price tag. It goes like stink, too. Read on...
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News Reviews

A Different View Every Day - 19th February, 2018

At first glance the price tag of $115,000 for this 2011 Keystone Springvale caravan might appear expensive, and sure, it is serious scratch. But look take a second look – you get a house AND a car for less than a deposit on an average Kiwi house and your backyard is New Zealand. Not so crazy when you think about it. Read on...
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Beach Hop, a festival

Next month sees the return of Beach Hop, a festival that celebrates 50s and 60s Rock and Roll, retro, nostalgia and old cars. Over the years it has grown into a major event that attracts over 1000 hot rods, classic cars, motorcycles, caravans and more Brylcreem, bobby socks and beehives than you can shake a gearstick at.
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Bullitt Mustang Found

The car chase in 1968’s Bullitt is considered by many to be the best of all time. That’s a big call but it is the granddaddy of the modern car chase and its location on the steep streets of San Francisco makes it pretty thrilling. The Ford Mustang used in the film has cult status but its whereabouts has remained a mystery...until now.
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Rental Relocations – A Cheap Way to See the Country?

Whether you want to see some of New Zealand on the cheap or you really just need to get home, or maybe you just like driving then there is one method that you may not have considered - car rental relocations.
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Big Bang for Your Buck - 12th February, 2018

When you mention Renault to many NZ drivers you, perhaps ironically, get a very Gallic shrug of the shoulders or a dismissive wave of the hands. This is odd because when it comes to hot hatches Renault has got form, seriously good form. So while others are stumping up big dollars for hot Golfs or Focuses the Renault Megane RS250 Cup can be picked up for a snip. Read on...
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Smoking Hot Classic - 2nd February, 2018

Most retired fire engines that come up for sale aren’t exactly the most practical vehicles to park in your driveway or on the street outside your house. But this 1976 Toyota FJ45 Smoke Chaser is just about the right size and it may just cause a few grown-up six year olds to spontaneously combust with excitement. Read on...
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House and Car Package Deal - 31st January, 2018

It’s not often you get the opportunity to buy a Kiwi new 1989 Land Rover 110 ute with low mileage. So when one comes along AND it includes a house on the back, well you better not miss out. And it’s hard to imagine any other campervan or caravan going where this one can go so if you truly love the proper outdoors then read on...
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The Size of a Small Planet - 26th January, 2018

With temperatures pushing the mercury to record levels around the country it seems appropriate that this gorgeous Mercury Eight is up for sale at Turners Tauranga. Basically a Ford in a nice suit, the Mercury lives up to its name by being the size of a small planet. And this NZ assembled example has the added advantage of having the steering wheel on the right side. Read on...
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Electric Dreams - 24th January, 2018

On a drive between Napier and Taupo on the weekend – to watch fossil fuel burning monsters race around the Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park - I couldn’t help but notice not one, but two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations strategically placed along the Napier – Taupo road. This got me thinking – maybe, with a little route planning, you could take this fully electric Mitsubishi i-MIEV city car on a road trip. Read on...
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New Vitara for Used Money - 17th January, 2018

Okay, so strictly speaking it’s not new, it’s actually 17 months old, but it’s the current model with just 3200km on the clock. A new one has a RRP of $37990 so with an auction estimate of just $21,500 - $22,500 and the balance of the new car warranty this top of the range Vitara Turbo AllGrip could turn out to be an amazing deal on a really nice bit of kit.
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Forgotten Swedish Bargain – 12th January, 2018

Sweden is cool. They’ve given us ABBA, creamy meatballs, Ikea, the Nobel prize, Ace of Base, Volvo and, of course, Saab. The Saab brand may be dead but many of the cars left behind are very much alive and prices are rock bottom. This classy one owner, NZ new 9-3 Cabrio has bargain written all over it.
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Auctions

Little Red Corvette? 5th January, 2018

When Prince wrote his hit song about a little red Corvette we can only assume he wasn’t comparing its size to his own stature because the Corvette is a big car and Prince was a brilliant small man. With a 5.7L V8 and an overall length of 4.6 metres the only thing “little” about this red Corvette is the price...read on
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A Big Xmas Gift for a Small Price – 20th December, 2017

Have you left your Christmas shopping a bit late? Well this BMW Z4 might be a bit extravagant for the office secret Santa but if you’re going for the grand gesture to impress someone special then it could make quite the splash for a little less money than what it looks like it should cost. Read on...
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Beautiful Car Alert – Alfa Romeo GT - 15th December, 2017

If there’s one thing the Italians are good at - apart from football, food, fashion and organised crime - it’s cars - or more specifically, sexy cars. Sure there are exceptions but their hit rate when it comes to good looking cars is pretty remarkable. The Alfa Romeo GT is gorgeous and for a coupe it’s actually quite practical. And unlike some Alfas from the last 20 years there’s a good chance it won’t break your heart.
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Have you seen the price of petrol lately? 12th December, 2017

When you mention the word Prius you often get told by car purists to shut up and never mention the name again. Or you are told how they’d never be seen dead in one. But seriously, have you seen the price of fuel lately? And for your daily commute what more do you really need? Turners have a bunch of Prius C cars available right now.
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Totalled Torana - A Sad End or a New Beginning? 4th December, 2017

It would be sad if this was just another old Holden Torana but doubly so in this case as it’s purportedly a one owner 1972 LJ “S” model with just 62,000 original miles on the clock. Before it had an argument with something very solid it was in beautiful condition and this may be its saving grace. It just might be worth saving.
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Italian Speed and Luxury - 28th November, 2017

It’s the Supercar for those that want a bit more comfort and refinement but still want the looks and the epic sound of a Ferrari built V8. The Maserati GranTurismo coupe is a grand tourer, but with 450hp and a trick transmission it ain’t no show pony and this one is for sale right now at Turners Penrose. Read on...
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Man Finds Car Exactly Where he Left it...20 Years Ago - 21st November, 2017

We’ve all done it, parked the car (usually in a multi-story car park) and wandered off to go about our business only to return with absolutely no idea what level we left the car on. Well that’s sort of what happened to a German man who parked his car but then couldn’t find it. Read on...
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Vantastic! 14th November, 2017

There was a time through the 70s and 80s when every second Bedford CF van was customised into what was commonly referred to as a Shaggin’ Wagon with airbrushed fantasy images of scantily clad women, tigers, dragons or Nordic gods. You just don’t see them these days but could they be making a comeback? Read on...
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A Porsche for Under $10k! 10th November, 2017

At a time when classic Porsche 911 prices have shot into the stratosphere and beyond it seems refreshing to see an example of the luxury marque at a price that seems more in line with a used Honda Jazz. Okay, sure, it’s an SUV and it’s done few kilometres but it’s still a Porsche with an auction estimate of $6500 - $7500. Read on...
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Luxury is a State of Mind - 9th November, 2017

Sometimes the key to a successful sale is selling an idea, a feeling or a concept rather than the product itself. Coca cola is associated with summer, fun and vibrancy rather than a sweet fizzy drink that’s quite good when you’re hung-over. And so it is with this very professional ad for a 1996 Honda Accord with 141,000 miles on the clock belonging to the ad maker’s girlfriend. Read on...
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Get Smart - 3rd November, 2017

The bumper sticker says “Be SMART of the Revolution” which may not be the most elegant play on words but you get the idea. I’m not sure that the Smart car brought about revolution but you’d think grid-locked Auckland would be awash with them, but it’s not. However, a walk around the inner city streets of somewhere like Rome suggests the Smart has its place. Maybe it has a place in your life. Read on...
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Retro Cruiser or Cafe Racer - 31st October, 2017

The Honda CB has been around for Donkeys and although this CB400 SS looks straight from the pages of a seventies magazine it was actually built in 2002. However, it’s not just a retro themed modern bike. No, the CB400 SS is kick start only with a carburettor and chrome. It’s genuine old-school and it’s lightweight, simple and looks cool. And it could look even cooler. Read on...
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A Full Squad of Highlanders - 30th October, 2017

Despite a name that conjures up images of Scotland and a Rugby team from NZ’s deep south, the Toyota Highlander is actually an American made SUV – more burger and fries than Haggis and Speights. It’s big and tough but it also has finesse and comfort in spades. And Turners has the full team available for sale at very keen prices. Read on...
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Feel Good as you Drive to Work

This old digger would’ve been quite the catch in 1978. A factory V8 Kingswood Ute with power steering was bordering on posh back then. But compared to today’s Utes with their Bluetooth, climate control and comfy seats this old boy seems prehistoric. And flat out cool. Read on...
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Classic Auction - For the Truly Dedicated Holden Fan - 3rd October, 2017

“Ay Steve, can you move the Camira? I need to get the Torana out to get to the Commodore.” “Sure thing Dad, but I'll have to get the keys to the Cortina if I'm gunna move that Camira.” “Alright mate, just watch the boat” That famous scene from classic Aussie movie The Castle was possibly the Camira’s best moment. So with the movie turning 20 this year, what better time to buy a Camira...to park in front of the Torana. Read on...
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Classic Car Auction: Beauty is in the eye of the Beholder - 28th September, 2017

Looking like something a 1970s Texan oil baron might drive, this converted Lincoln Versailles must surely be the only one in NZ. It won’t be to everybody’s taste but after a few beers – around 25 – I bet it starts to look pretty damn sexy. Well stock up the fridge because this bad boy is being sold as part of our Classic Car Auction. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Classic Auction – The Heavy Hitter - 25th September, 2017

A Ford Falcon GT from the seventies is a fantasy car for many fans of the blue oval. A rock solid investment, an Aussie icon and a car you can stare at for hours. It’s a heavy hitter in the NZ classic car world so when a genuine, unrestored, matching numbers, NZ new car comes along, what do you do? Reach for the big wallet, that’s what. Read on...
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Classic Auction - Go Ahead, Make Your Day - 22nd September, 2017

The 1972 Ford Gran Torino Sportsroof played a central role in Clint Eastwood’s hugely successful movie of the same name as well as a starring role in Fast and Furious. It’s a star car and this example at Turners Tauranga looks every inch the celebrity. Read on...
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Classic Auction – Aussie Luxury - 19th September, 2017

To many, the idea of Aussie luxury is a bottle of VB served in a glass. But if you drove a Ford Fairlane in 1976 then you were doing pretty well for yourself. The ZH series Fairlane was bigger and bolder than the regular Falcon and had a fancier level of trim. But like many Aussie luxury cars of this vintage – think Holden Statesman and Brougham – they are a bit underappreciated today. Read on...
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Theory of Mitsubishi Evolution - 12th September, 2017

Mitsubishi’s theory of evolution was simple; take a standard model Lancer and turn it into a blisteringly fast weapon. The first Lancer Evo was released in 1992 and ten evolutions and loads of motorsport success later the Evo X is the final version. While it may have reached its final evolution, Turners North Shore has a very nice example so you don’t have to miss out.
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‘Lap Of The Gods’ Car For Sale - 8th September, 2017

One of the greatest ever Bathurst moments was Greg Murphy’s top 10 shootout lap at the great race in 2003. Dubbed the ‘Lap of the Gods’, it was a record breaking lap, a record that would stand for years. The car is being offered for sale in Australia and it’s likely to also break the record for most expensive Commodore of all time. Read on...
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Cheaper Than an Old One - 5th September, 2017

The new Fiat 500 is bigger, more powerful, more refined, safer and faster than the original Bambina. But this 2014 Sport model has a price expectation significantly less than a decent vintage one. It’s NZ new with low kilometres and it’s being auctioned tomorrow. Read on...
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When was the last time you changed a headlight bulb on your car? 1st September, 2017

When was the last time you changed a headlight bulb on your car? If your car is an older model then it was probably so easy that you can’t even remember. But if you car is newer it may be a task that will haunt you forever along with many other basic maintenance tasks you used to do so easily at home.
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Caught in the Crossfire - 28th August, 2017

The Chrysler Crossfire was a car literally caught in the crossfire of an unhappy relationship between Chrysler and Daimler (owner of Mercedes Benz). It never stood a chance. And Jeremy Clarkson didn’t help by describing it as looking like a dog having a poo. But maybe it’s time to re-evaluate the sporty Crossfire, and Turners Penrose can help.
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Better Than a New One - 22nd August, 2017

A 1983 Land Rover for $33k might seem a tad on the nose. And it would be for any old 1983 Landy, but this isn’t any old 1983 Land Rover. This one is very special. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

The Go Anywhere Workhorse - 14th August, 2017

It was known in Australia as the Brumby, in America as the BRAT (Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transportation) and elsewhere as the MV and the Shifter. In NZ it was simply a Subaru 1800 GL and it has a bit of a cult following. The trouble is you very rarely find one that hasn’t been beaten to death through years of backbreaking work. This one looks pretty well preserved though. Read on...
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High End Hot Hatch - 7th August, 2017

The fifth generation Golf GTI is seen by many as the best one Volkswagen has produced. And now you can buy a really tidy NZ new one for less than the price of an original first generation GTI – a lot less actually. This one can be driven away for just $8990.
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The Durable German - 4th August, 2017

In 2004 a Greek taxi driver donated his 1976 Mercedes W115 240D to the Mercedes Benz museum in Stuttgart. He figured he’d got his money’s worth out of it and the big German car giant might like it. Why? Because it had travelled 4.6 million kilometres. Old Mercs were built to last and this one in our National Classic Car auction looks to have plenty of miles left in it. Read on...
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Viva La Vauxhall - 31st July, 2017

Until quite recently the idea that a Vauxhall Viva would become a classic seemed farfetched to say the least. But as numbers have dwindled many of the everyday family cars of the seventies are striking a nostalgic note amongst a generation of car fans. The simple but pretty lines of the Viva make it a good entry level retro ride. Read on...
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Schoolboy fantasy – 27th July, 2017

The Turners National Classic Car auction starting tomorrow is shaping up well. As usual it’s an eclectic mix of styles, ages and origins and as usual there is the unusual. Take this 1982 Lotus Esprit S3 – an aggressive wedge of a car with a mid-mounted engine and a James Bond connection, as well as a Kiwi connection. Read on...
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Vantastic! - 25th July, 2017

Classic Fords have been appreciating in value at alarming rates over the last few years and the once modest Anglia is no exception. And while the vans were hardly rare (over 200,000 built), for the most part they lived a typical van life – short and hard. Survivors are rare in NZ making this one all the more desirable. It’s part of the Turners National Classic Car Auction starting this Friday. Read on...
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Brown Sugar - 20th July, 2017

If you were wealthy in 1970s America then the Cadillac De Ville was probably the car for you. If you were a member of a certain type of “family” you probably went for the top of the line Coupe D’Elegance with a trunk big enough to carry at least two adult bodies. This lovely example is part of the National Classic Car Auction starting 28th July. Read on...
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Toronado Alert - 18th July, 2017

The Oldsmobile Toronado is possibly one of the better looking American cars of the era and is significant for being the first front wheel drive American car since 1937. And it’s still the only American car ever to get on the podium in the European Car of the Year awards (3rd in 1966). This 1970 example with less than 9000 miles on the clock is part of the Turners National Classic Car Auction starting on 28th July. Read on...
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Back to the Future, and Back Again - 13th July, 2017

If there is such a thing as a car that is double retro then the Nissan Figaro is it. It was a special project for the Japanese market launched under the banner “back to the future”. That was 26 years ago, which quite possibly makes it the first car to re-imagine the 60s and the first to become a retro themed classic in its own right. So it’s now double retro. This one’s being auctioned at Turners North Shore. Read on...
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Feel the M3 Power – 11th July, 2017

The third Generation BMW M3 is the Supercar you can drive daily to work and take to the track on weekends. They may be getting older but that just makes them more affordable. And if you look after them you could be looking at a very desirable future classic. Turners Wellington has this one to be auctioned this week. Read on...
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America’s Cup – You Have to Start Somewhere - 6th July, 2017

Who says sailing is a rich person’s sport? It might be for some but with this old P-Class, getting started in New Zealand’s new favourite sport is possibly cheaper than a season of cricket, rugby or Netball and definitely cheaper than cycling or motorsport. Sure you won’t be foiling but you will be learning... Read on
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So Much Posh, So Little Money - 3rd July, 2017

Porsche ownership is something most of us assume is for those people with stacks of cash or an appetite for crippling debt. But you could join the club for about the price of a four year old Toyota Corolla...read on
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An i-Car for u? 29th June, 2017

An i-Car for u?
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Hole in One, 27th June 2017

Hole in One
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Is this the Next Escort Sport? – 20th June, 2017

Is this the Next Escort Sport?
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A Dying Breed – 16th June, 2017

Back when SUVs were a mere twinkle in their designer’s eye and Utes were strictly for farmers and Tradies, large wagons like this 2008 Falcon roamed the roads of NZ filled with children or salesmen’s samples or dead bodies. Now, like VHS videos and afternoon Test matches, the large wagon is fast being consigned to the history books. But this big Falcon still has much to offer. Read on...
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Vanishing Point Revisited - 9th June, 2017

The original Dodge Challenger was one of the all-time great movie cars so it’s not surprising Chrysler decided to revive the legend. Their first attempt bringing back the Challenger name was not a winning move but the latest version doesn’t mess about. This one is being auctioned at Turners Hamilton. Read more...
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Are You an E-Type Type? 1st June, 2017

The 2+2 E-Type Jaguar isn’t even the prettiest E-Type but it’s still more beautiful than nearly every other car ever made. Upon first seeing the E-Type Enzo Ferrari famously said it was “the most beautiful car ever made”. And you could argue that nothing has changed during the intervening 56 years. Turners Classic Car Auction has this one for sale. Read on...
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105 Years Old and as Spritely as Ever - 30th May, 2017

It’s weird to think that there are very few people still alive anywhere on the planet that were breathing when this 1912 Unic Landaulette Tourer hit the road. And yet it looks so fresh. But who were Unic, what’s the history of this car, and how can I buy it? Read on...
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Go Anywhere in Supreme Comfort - 25th May, 2017

It’s big and tough, will go places most cars can’t and it’ll fit the whole family. But this 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX Limited has a softer side, too. The VX Limited is also built for comfort so you and your family will hardly know you’ve left home. A new one will cost you $100k but Turners North Shore has this one and it’s on sale at the moment. Read on...
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Diddy Ducati - 22nd May, 2017

The Ducati name conjures up images of big superbikes with an incredible sound and speed to match. But there was an unusual addition to the range that is rarely seen and it’s a sort of entry level Ducati. Could the rare SS Junior 400 become a collectible Italian bike or is it just too odd and too small to care about? Remember, it’s often the overlooked ones that go on to become desirable collectors’ items, and Turners has one. Read on...
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Winter Glamping Project - 15th May, 2017

Classic caravans are super popular right now, much like the housing market but with wheels. This 1962 Cresta Craft needs work, but, like an old Villa in Ponsonby, it’ll be worth it. Once you’ve sorted out the shell and running gear you can let your imagination run wild when it comes to paint and decor. Read on...
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Movie Props? Stunt Bikes? 5th May, 2017

Are you making a movie that involves a James Bond type character being chased by bad guys on mean looking motorcycles? Well if you are then Turners Wellington have a bunch of ex NZ Army Kawasaki KL250s to be sold and they will look great being spectacularly wrecked in an action movie...Read on...
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Kinky Bentley - 2nd May, 2017

If you are a Dedicated Follower of Fashion with a love of great British music and cars then Sir Ray Davies’ (the Kinks) 1960 Bentley would be great for a Sunny Afternoon drive. His 1960 Bentley is being auctioned in England on 13th May. Would you like to drive this famous car off into the Waterloo Sunset? Read on...
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Reviews Classic Cars

Bargain Integra Type RRRRRRR - 28th April, 2017

Honda may have a reputation for middle of the road cars for retirees but they also have a fast side and some of these fast models are destined for greatness. There’s the NSX, the S2000 and, of course, the Civic and Integra Type Rs. This DC5 Type R Integra is the dog’s bits and with an auction estimate of $5000-$6000 it has ‘potential bargain’ written all over it. Read on...
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Wolf in Dad’s Tracksuit - 26th April, 2017

It may look like the equivalent of dad’s gym tracksuit with shoulder pads fitted but this mighty Audi RS4 Avant is a bit like Clark Kent – one minute it’s a sedate family wagon, the next it’s a supercar. And it doesn’t need a phone box for the transformation.
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Nest or Invest - 21st April, 2017

Nest or invest, add your own touch, worst house on the best street, cosy romantic pad, location, location, location, home handyman delight, live the good life, bring your tools and imagination, stunning views...and any other real estate clichés you can think of. Thing is, this caravan is the size of a small house, and like most old houses it needs work. So is it renovate or detonate? Read on...
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Poodle in Sheep’s Clothing - 18th April, 2017

Describing the Peugeot 206 GTI as a wolf in sheep’s clothing would be a bit of a stretch but the little French city car packs a decent punch in GTI guise. The standard 1.4l version, that is most commonly seen here, squeezes out 75hp while the outwardly similar GTI knocks out 138 horses. It’s more poodle than wolf but a feisty poodle none the less. Read on...
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Dream Police - 12th April, 2017

Whether you’re a fan of the Blues Brothers, CHiPs or any number of American movies and TV shows you’ll recognise the black and white police cruiser. It’s as much a part of popular culture as it is part of everyday American life. Owning this car won’t give you the right to arrest criminals or engage in car chases but you can but dream. And the price has been dropped, too. Read on...
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Gool Ol’ Boy Truck - 7 April, 2017

If your name is Beau, Jim Bob or Darlene, you love Nascar and own more than one gun? Then this 1984 Chevrolet Custom Deluxe K10 pick-up could be just what you’re looking for.
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A lot of Posh for not much Dosh - 30th March, 2017

Once upon a time you had to be a wealthy business person, a politician or a head of State to afford the luxury of wafting around in this Jaguar. But this 2006 XJ6 has an auction estimate of just $5000 - $7000, which is Ford Focus dollars. A Jag still screams money even if you don’t need much to buy this one. Read on...
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Could You Be Going Home in an Ambulance? 27th March, 2017

If any vehicle carries good Karma then it has to be an ambulance. Sure a few passengers may have shuffled off this mortal coil in the back but many more will have been saved, comforted and reassured on their way to hospital. So it may have a few kilometres on the clock but they’ve all been travelled for the greater good of your fellow men, women and children. Read on...
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Mitsubishi Evo Lite - 23rd March, 2017

It looks like an Evo X but without the as much power, the steep price tag and a bit more everyday drivability. But while the Galant Fortis Ralliart is not the Evo monster it does still pack a punch and it looks the business...read on
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A Severe Case of Heartburn - 21st March, 2017

It’s had a fire under the hood and it looks like it has been given a black eye. Life hasn’t been good to this old Corvette of late but maybe you could restore its confidence...and its burnt engine bay. It otherwise looks like a solid car that’d make a great winter project. Read on...
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Classic Auction – Futuristic French - 17th March, 2017

In these days of cars filled with clever gadgets and innovative engineering it’s a good time to reflect on a car that was truly ahead of its time. The Citroen DS/ID was so ahead of its time when launched it shocked the motoring world. More than 50 years on it still looks gloriously bonkers. Read on...
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Classic Auction - The Last Charger - 14th March,2017

“The Last Charger” may sound like a good name for a Hollywood movie but in this case it refers to the last Valiant Charger assembled in New Zealand. That may not be the stuff of Hollywood but to many fans the Charger is a Blockbuster and to own the last one to roll out of Todd Motor’s Porirua plant would be a privilege. Well apparently this is that very car. Read on...
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Classic Auction – Sought After Two Door Escort

Nearly everyone of a certain age has driven one or been driven in one. And many who grew up in the 70s and 80s have fond memories of hooning around in one, modify one or racing one. Today there is a huge nostalgic following for the Ford Escort and the two door models are the ones everyone wants. And Turners has this real beauty. Read on...
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Classic Auction – Japanese Curiosity - 7th March, 2017

It’s a French/American inspired Japanese car, designed by an Italian, and assembled in Thames, NZ. And you may never have heard of it. Hino are more noted these days for their trucks but for a few years in the 50s and 60s it got into the car market, first with the Hino Renault 4CV and then the short lived but very cool Contessa. These cars are rare but as they were assembled in NZ we may be the best place to find one. And we found one. And it’s a beauty. Read on...
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How Not to Store Your Pride and Joy - 3rd March, 2017

This 1962 E-Type Jaguar was purchased from the car’s first owner in 1997 and put into “storage” with plans to restore it. But it would seem that the new owner’s storage was, in fact, a septic tank that was still in use. Either that or it has been secretly attending the Glastonbury festival for the last 20 years. It’s coming up for auction in England with a price expectation of NZ$70,000. Excuse me? Read on...
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Fair Weather Bavaria - 28th February, 2017

With any luck the best of this summer is yet to come. So - at the risk of attracting the ire of some readers by featuring a car with a ‘buy it now’ price and with the risk of that car being sold before you’ve had a chance to read this - we have to feature this eye catching BMW Z4. It may have been around for 13 years but this Z4 still looks young and fresh and has lived a very sheltered existence. Read more...
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Do you want to Sell Your Classic Car? - 24th February, 2017

Is your garage being cluttered up with an old Porsche 911 or Ford Mustang? Or maybe an old Holden project that never got off the ground after buying it with great intentions of it becoming your daily driver? Well now might be a good time to cash it up at the Turners national classic car auction being held online from 10th March.
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Mightiest Merc of them all? - 22nd February, 2017

Mercedes is pretty much an apex predator when it comes to car brands and at the top of the Benz range is the S-Class. So if a C-Class Merc is a Mako shark then the S-Class is a Great White. And at the top of the S-Class range is the S-500 (yeah there’s an S-600 but that’s like the mutant shark in Jaws 3). The S-Class is more than just a luxury car, it’s the car that debuts Mercedes latest technology. It’s also SERIOUSLY expensive. But here’s a chance to get a discount on a near new one that’s barely worked up a sweat. Read on...
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When the Mini Was Mini – 20th February, 2017

Back when Minis were mini and Maxis were big you knew what you were getting – the clue was in the name. Now the 2017 Mini is, ironically, as big as the Austin Maxi, the original Mini’s biggest brother. The new Mini has been supersized with extra fries. It may be faster, safer and more comfortable but it sure isn’t mini. Luckily Turners Christchurch has a mini Mini for sale...read more.
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Foxy Boxster or Gorgeous Alfa - 13th February, 2017

Two of the better looking cars at Turners right now are a 2010 Porsche Boxster and a 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 wagon. Two very different cars but both drop dead gorgeous. But strangely both car are somewhat maligned by many car people. In the case of the Porsche it’s the fact it’s seen as a lesser Porsche, more for poseurs than true car fans. With the Alfa it’s the reputation for poor build quality and a habit of leaving its owners stranded. But what are they really like?
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Off the Scale - 9th February, 2017

We do like vehicles with mammoth mileage. There’s something heroic about the achievement and they are usually tidier than vehicles with a fraction of the kilometres under their belt. But what is especially heroic about this 2007 Volkswagen Crafter is the fact the company that built it didn’t seem to think it could achieve what it has done. You see, the odometer only goes to 999,999kms and then stops.
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Integra Type ARRRRRRRRRH! - 2nd February, 2017

Destined to become a future performance classic the Honda Integra Type R, with its screaming V-TEC engine, is one to keep an eye on. Finding one that hasn’t been thrashed within an inch of its life won’t be easy though. This one at Turners Palmerston North doesn’t look like it has had an easy life, but - apart from the black bonnet (fashionable a few years ago) and aftermarket air filter and rear lights- it looks fairly original. You’ll want to inspect it carefully but the price guide of $4500 - $5000 makes good sense.
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Dust Off Your Shoulder Pads – Posh Retro Ragtops - 31st January, 2017

Turners Tauranga are going large on convertibles at the moment with seven interesting examples for sale. These two posh Germans from a time of shoulder pads, perms and white jeans caught my eye. Once the domain of people in the ruthless pursuit of money and power they will now likely appeal to those in the roofless pursuit of a sunny retro ride...Read more.
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Electric Dreams - 25th January, 2017

The Nissan Leaf - or “Leading environmentally friendly affordable car” to use its full name (shouldn’t it be LEAFC then?) - is a fully electric car. Sure it looks like a Tiida with the nose of a bottom feeding fish but what it lacks in style and excitement it makes up for with its frugality. You see if you spend $100 on petrol in an average sized car now the Leaf will go the same distance for $20. And prices for used ones are starting to look quite attractive. Read more.
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The Thunderbird That Became a Firebird - 20th January, 2017

This fourth generation ’64 Ford Thunderbird may be a bit crispy under the hood but it’s certainly worth saving. It’s not a convertible but the hardtop version is just as sexy, and this one’s potentially a real gem with a long history on NZ’s roads. And it’s still registered so should be a straight forward restoration.
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Retro German Class - 17th January, 2017

It may not be fast and it may drink petrol like a rugby team in a sports bar but this 1985 Mercedes 280SE will carry you in comfort and treat you like king/queen. But not only that, this classic Merc will do its job year after year, kilometre after kilometre and you’ll look like a boss the whole time. Mercedes from this era were built to last and they are still one of the best value everyday classics you can buy.
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Price, Panache and Pedigree - 13th January, 2017

It’s too easy to write-off modern French cars, especially when the likes of Jeremy Clarkson are quick to stick the boot it. Sure, some models suffer from fragility as they age and they aren’t always screwed together as well as they might be. But the Citroen C4 has some cool features, impeccable World Rallying credentials and, in the case of this 2010 example at Turners Whangarei, a very low price expectation.
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Caught in the Crossfire - 10th January, 2017

From the odd-ball files comes the Chrysler Crossfire, a car that was literally caught in the crossfire of an unhappy relationship between Chrysler and Daimler (owner of Mercedes Benz). It never stood a chance. But the Crossfire is a better car than most people remember despite Jeremy Clarkson damning it when describing it as looking like a dog having a poo. Now you can’t un-see that image, can you? But maybe it’s time to re-evaluate the sporty Crossfire, and Turners Wellington can help.
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Just in time For Napier Art Deco Weekend - 5th January, 2017

Every February Napier celebrates its Art Deco heritage with a weekend of dress up, nostalgia and vintage everything. If you are into cars of the period then Art Deco weekend is an event not to be missed. Hundreds of old cars congregate in the city, like Beach Hop but for even older cars. So if you need a car for your Deco experience then Turners Napier can help.
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In 20 Years Everybody Will Want One - 15th December, 2016

Any Ford Falcon prior to 1980 is currently worth more than you’d think possible 10 years ago. Any old model, even if it’s had the living daylights kicked out of it through years of abuse and neglect and rustier than the Titanic is worth more than the pictured 2000 XR6 with 137,000kms on the clock. Will its time come?
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Future Classic – Fun Right Now - 13th December, 2016

Mazda have built nearly one million of these incredibly popular ragtops making it the biggest selling convertible sports car of all time. And there’s a reason they’re so popular – they are very, very good. This one has low kilometres considering it is 26 years old, and, frankly, you won’t get more driving fun for less money than an MX-5.
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Near New Fiat 500 Now Cheaper than an Old One – 8th December, 2016

The new Fiat 500 is bigger, more powerful, more refined, safer and faster than the original Bambina. But this near new one - with only 1400kms on the clock and the balance of its new car warranty - is available to buy at less than the price of a decent vintage one. It’d make a great Christmas prezzy for someone, too.
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Completely Bonkers and Tricky to Drive - 6th December, 2016

Looking like some crazed WW2 fighter plane without wings, this damaged 2016 Morgan Three Wheeler is possibly one of the most unusual cars ever conceived. If it looks like it was made eighty years ago that’ll be because it’s based on the original model that Morgan started selling in the 1930s. This one is virtually brand new but has already bitten some unlucky driver so some work is required. Are you game?
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Budget Classic - 29th November, 2016

Most of the classic cars we have featured from the Turners National Classic Car Auction have been high end, expensive collectibles. But there are a few affordable cars of note and this kiwi classic from 1984 is one of them. It may not be fast or particularly stylish but back in the eighties if you were borrowing mum’s car there was a fair chance it’d be a Laser – probably not a “Sport”, though, because that was for posh mums...
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The “Great” Gatsby - 25th November, 2016

You can see the resemblance to the Duesenberg used in the 2013 film “The Great Gatsby” but there is also a fair bit of 1985 Mustang mixed in as well. That’s because this Gatsby replica is based on a 1985 Ford Mustang. So it’s a cut price Duesenberg. But let’s face it most of us are a cut price Leo DiCaprio at best so it’s just about spot on. Sure most of your friends will hate it, your wife/husband will leave you, but the kids will love it...
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Boomtown Rat - 22nd November, 2016

Prices for some classic cars are booming right now and none more so than the humble VW Kombi. Combine that with the rat rod craze and you have one of the most in demand classics in this 1964 Splittie. So don’t be fooled by the tatty looks and the surface rust as the price for patina is riding high right now.
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The British Mustang - 18th November, 2016

It may seem obvious now but the Ford Capri was indeed designed to be the European Mustang and was designed by Mustang designer Phillip T Clark. It’s a fact that only surfaced in recent years and, like the famous American Pony car, it was a big success. Prices are on the rise but as yet the Capri doesn’t attract Ford Escort tax so the only way is up for the car favoured by wide boys and seventies cop shows.
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Brand New 36 Years Ago – Still New Today - 14th November, 2016

I kid you not, this 1980 Suzuki CXG Coupe is pretty much brand spankers. It has a total of 142kms on the clock – not 142,000, not 14,200, not 1,420 but 142 - well 141.7 to be exact. That’s right, this little Whizzkid, as they are sometimes known, drove home from the dealership and straight into the garage, and it’s been there ever since. So if you missed out on buying a new one in 1980 you’ve got one last chance...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Thelma and Louise - 11th November, 2016

Okay, so it’s not the one from Thelma and Louise (spoiler alert – that one didn’t have a happy ending) but this fourth generation Ford Thunderbird is probably as close as you’re likely to get in NZ. It’s not a convertible but the hardtop version is just as sexy, and this one is a real gem with a long history on NZ’s roads.
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Stings Like a Bee - 10th November, 2016

The Turners National Classic car auction is shaping up to be the best in ages. There are so many rare and desirable cars it’s hard to know what to feature next. But this beautiful yellow and black Ford Falcon XB GT really catches the eye. The colour scheme may resemble an insect with a sting in its tail but the sound it makes is pure honey.
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

I say, What a Rather Finely Crafted Automobile - 8th November, 2016

Leather upholstery, hand stitched by goddesses using thread made from the hair of baby pandas, a boot larger than many Auckland apartments and wood trim made from a walnut tree planted by God himself are just some of the features of this Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. And it’s being sold at the Turners National Classic Car Auction this month...
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The Crown Jewel - 4th November, 2016

Continuing our series highlighting cars from the Turners National Classic Auction later this month today we look at a Toyota. In years gone by a Toyota Crown would not be seen in a classic car auction, even a coupe like this one. Times have changed and a car once considered old and ugly now looks strangely attractive. This one is an absolute stunner.
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Rare Cobra Looking for a New Charmer - 2nd November, 2016

The Shelby name is synonymous with performance Mustangs. They are the rare, hand built cars made at Carroll Shelby’s own workshop and sold as limited editions that bear the iconic Cobra snake badge on the grill. They were rare in their day and today they are even more so. Throw into the mix that none were sold new in NZ and you get an idea of how seldom an opportunity to buy one is. But one opportunity has arisen at Turners in the National Classic Car Auction...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Wolf in Dad’s Cardigan - 28th October, 2016

It may look like the equivalent of dad’s cardy with shoulder pads fitted but this mighty Audi RS4 Avant is a bit like Clark Kent – one minute it’s a sedate family wagon, the next it’s a supercar. And it doesn’t need a phone box for the transformation.
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Reviews Auctions

Dream Police - 25th October, 2016

Whether you’re a fan of the Blues Brothers, CHiPs or any number of American movies and TV shows from the eighties, you’ll recognise the black and white police cruiser. It’s as much a part of popular culture as it is part of everyday American life. Owning this car won’t give you the right to arrest criminals, engage in car chases or shoot unarmed innocents but you can but dream.
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News Reviews Auctions

A More Affordable Classic Falcon? 14th October, 2016

It’s all about the Falcons at the moment, what with the last one rolling of the assembly line in Australia last week and then the news of the genuine 1970 GTHO Falcon coming up for auction at Turners soon. The old Aussie Ford hasn’t been this popular in years. Of course the GTHO will be out of most peoples’ reach but there are other opportunities to join the rush to own the now extinct Aussie Icon.
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All Oval Bar the Shouting - 10th October, 2016

The Final Australian Ford rolled off the Broadmeadows assembly line on Friday and on Sunday there was no fairytale Bathurst 1000 victory for the blue oval supporters. Then there was the news that some Ford dealers have been stockpiling the limited edition final run XR8 and are now hiking the retail price to take advantage of teary eyed Falcon lovers. It’s not been a good few days for Ford fans. But it’s not all doom and gloom.
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Future Classic and Screaming Bargain? 7th October, 2016

Playing the “Future Classic” game is tricky but with this 2005 stock standard, low mileage Mazda RX8 it’s a game worth playing for two reasons. Firstly, pretty much every rotary powered Mazda has become collectible and has increased in value over time so the future looks bright for the RX8. Secondly, this is simply a really good car at, potentially, a very good price that’ll be fun to own and drive. So is there a downside?
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News Reviews Auctions

Dotcom Fordcedes Project - 3rd October, 2016

What do you get if you cross a 1967 Ford Mustang with a late model V8 Mercedes? Well Kim Dotcom was keen to find out but never finished the project. Maybe you could be the one to answer the question definitively. Read on...
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Company Cars – The Most Popular Used Car to Buy - 29th September, 2016

There are some that believe that the best used car to buy is the one that’s been owned by a little old lady who only used it for trips to the shops. This may be so, but there are two problems with finding one of these cars. Read on...
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News Reviews

Put on your Stubbies and let Down Your Mullet - 23rd September, 2016

I know I’ll be cursed by somebody for making this so public but hiding away in next week’s damaged vehicle auction in Wellington is this remarkably original 1975 XB Ford Falcon 500. And I know what you’re thinking – it must be damaged, right? Well, no actually. Read on...
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Mundane Euro Workhorse Or Practical Classic? - 20th September, 2016

A quick trawl around the web will show there is a bunch of people who appreciate old cars that, until recently, were considered scrap. There’s an unhealthy love of Morris Marinas, Hillman Avengers, Austin Allegros, Ford Sierras and Holden Geminis and prices for these questionable gems are starting to get worryingly high. It’s getting to the point where a tired Datsun 120Y is selling for more than this Merc wagon that’s coming up for auction at Turners Cars Albany in Auckland.
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News Reviews Auctions

Electric Dreams - 15th September, 2016

I’m always on the lookout for the odd and interesting at Turners but while this fully Electric Mitsubishi iMIEV is not a common sight the Government intends it to be much more common over the next five years. So before everyone has one get in early with this one that’s available to buy now.
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News Reviews Auctions

Dotcom Mercs For Sale – 13th September, 2016

Kim Dotcom loves his toys and at one point he had the money to buy pretty much whatever he wanted. Unfortunately for KDC not everyone was happy about how he made his money and the legal battles have been drawn out and still continue. Caught up in all this is some of KDC’s assets, two of which are a couple of gorgeous, low mileage Mercedes that are now being sold by Turners on behalf of the Crown and Kim Dotcom.
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News Reviews

Wallace and Gromit? - 8th September, 2016

I bet your pampered pooch will love being a passenger in this vintage sidecar with the wind in its ears. Alternatively you could take the kids out for rides – they’ll absolutely love it. But I’d think very carefully before getting your better half to ride in the little torpedo attached to your bike. There are certain places adults shouldn’t be seen and one of those places is in a sidecar. I don’t know, it just nearly always looks undignified. This one is selling right now.
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Foxy Ford - 5th September, 2016

Compared to the iconic first generation Mustang the third generation Fox body Stang is a bit ugly. But compared to its second generation predecessor it’s as foxy as all hell and is a product of its time – the eighties. This one is part of the latest Turners online classic car auction that’s running right now.
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Perfect Poser Porsche - 1st September, 2016

If you want the pure Porsche driving experience you’d probably plump for a hard top with manual gearbox, maybe even with a turbo strapped on. But if cruising along the waterfront in front of the throngs of cafe goers on a glorious spring day is your thing then this bright yellow 996 cabriolet should be the ticket. It’s being auctioned in Wellington next Thursday and the price estimate is not crazy either.
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News Reviews Auctions

Molto Bello! 30th August, 2016

Yes it’s an Alfa Romeo which means it carries around a reputation of being temperamental and high maintenance. But all that seems rather trivial when you consider the beautiful lines of a body other car makers can only dream of designing. This one’s the top of the range V6 in the right colour with a 6 speed manual box and it’s being auctioned this week.
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News Reviews Auctions

Caravantastic - 25th August, 2016

It may not be fun stuck behind one of these on the drive to your summer holiday destination but retro caravans are very popular right now. It’s not surprising, really, as anything vintage is hot and the humble caravan is a practical proposition...especially in Auckland. These two are being auctioned at Turners right now.
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Reviews Auctions

Small but Perfectly Formed - 23rd August, 2016

This tiny Daihatsu Copen looks a bit like a toddler’s shoe and weighs about the same, but you can’t deny that it’s cute and it’s quite rare, too. There can’t be too many better examples around than this one and it’s being auctioned on Wednesday (24th Aug) at Turners Tauranga.
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Reviews Auctions

So You Think You Do a Lot of Driving? 18th August, 2016

Last year we wrote about a 1993 Toyota Hilux that had travelled 1.2 million kilometres with its first owner behind the wheel. It caused a bit of a stir and was covered by various TV and print media. It’s not often you come across a vehicle with over a million kms on the clock...unless you look in the truck section of the Turners website, that is.
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Reviews Auctions

Le Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing - 15th August, 2016

I reckon you won’t get more fun, driving pleasure and thrilling performance for less money than this 2001 Renault Sport Clio 172. It may look like Nana’s shopping basket on the outside but under the unassuming skin is one of the all-time greatest French hot hatches. This one is being auctioned at Turners Christchurch on Thursday.
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Reviews Auctions

You Could be Going Home in an Ambulance - 9th August, 2016

This 2010 Mercedes Sprinter ambulance is being retired from duty with just under 500,000kms on the clock and I bet it could tell a few stories if it could talk. It would be safe to say that a few lives were saved in this ambulance, and a few lost, too. And while many of those kilometres were racked up helping people in need there were probably also visits to people with haemorrhoids, hiccups and head colds, too.
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Reviews Auctions

A Smoking Hot Deal - 5th August, 2016

Most retired fire engines that come up for sale aren’t exactly the most practical vehicles to park in your driveway or on the street outside your house. But this 1980 Jeep J20 is just about the right size and the auction estimate may cause a few grown-up six year olds to spontaneously combust with excitement.
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Reviews Auctions

Foxy Frenchy – Fatal or Fixable? 1st August, 2016

It seems a shame for an icon such as this Citroen DS to be scrapped but maybe that’s its destiny if no one steps up to tackle the damage inflicted by a side impact. In these days of cars filled with clever gadgets and innovative engineering it’s a good time to reflect on a car that was truly ahead of its time. And maybe it will inspire somebody to save this one.
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Reviews Auctions

NZ on Air - 28th July, 2016

You could just buy a boat like everyone else, trailer it to the boat ramp, do the whole awkward launching thing, park the car and hopefully get to the fish before they die of old age. Or you could buy a hovercraft and travel from the car park on a cushion of air and visit those places a boat can’t go. The problem is where do you get a hovercraft? Well it just so happens Turners can help there.
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News Reviews Auctions Videos

50s Style with 00s Technology - 25th July, 2016

The name Royal Enfield may sound as British as the Hillman Hunter and Morris Marina but it’s actually made in India and, despite the vintage looks, is still being made today and is as popular as ever. This one year old Classic 500 is selling now at Turners Tauranga, so what’s the big deal with these new/old bikes?
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Reviews Auctions

Do you always Buy the Cheapest One? 21st July, 2016

There’s no shame in admitting it. I’ve been guilty most of my life of choosing a car based mainly on price and I probably always will - once a bargain hunter, always a bargain hunter. Sometimes it works out well and sometimes it’s a terrible mistake. There’s much to consider when buying a car, especially an older one, and price is just a small part of it.
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News

GT- R U Brave Enough - 15th July, 2016

It’s considered by some, including the old Top Gear, to be the only true Japanese Supercar. Its performance puts it up there with some of the most exclusive supercars in the world. It’ll sprint from 0-100kph in around 4 seconds and keep going to over 300kph. And you can have all this for less than the price of a used Commodore Clubsport.
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News Reviews

The Car That Time Forgot - 12th July, 2016

It’s not often you come across a 58 year old car that has had more written about it than the miles it has travelled but that is the case with 1958 Studebaker Champion that has just 74 miles on the clock. Much has been written about this car and it has possibly changed ownership more times than it has been on the road. It’s being auctioned online by Turners and the question is; will the next owner break the spell and drive it or will it end up in a museum?
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Don’t Believe Everything You See in a Car Commercial - 8th July, 2016

So you see a TV ad for a new Audi or Toyota and you think, wow, that looks fast, agile, good looking and better than everything else out there. After all, you assume the car you’re buying is going to be the same as the one in the ad, right? Well, no. There’s every chance the car in the ad is a Blackbird. But what the hell is a Blackbird?
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News Reviews

Yank Tanks in the Bay - 5th July, 2016

Turners Napier seems to be the home of old American cars right now. Last week we featured this Corvette and this week there are two very different cars representing two very different eras of American motoring. One is from the 1950s and the other is from the 80s. Can you guess which is which?
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News Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Do you want to Sell Your Classic Car? 28th June, 2016

Is your garage being cluttered up with an unused Gullwing Mercedes or a Ferrari 250 GT? Or maybe an old Escort that doesn’t get the use you thought it might when you bought with great intentions of it becoming your daily driver? Well now might be a good time to cash it up at the Turners national classic car auction being held online from 8th July.
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Classic Cars

Corker Corvette - 24th June, 2016

Usually, the worst thing about buying an imported American car is the placement of the steering wheel on the passenger’s side. It may not seem like too much of a hassle until you have to overtake a truck or get in or out of a barrier controlled car park on your own. But this 1993 Chevrolet Corvette 40th Anniversary edition has been properly converted to right hand drive, and that makes all the difference.
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Investment Potential? 22nd June, 2016

We’ve all heard about ’land banking’ where investors buy real estate and sit on it, unoccupied, waiting for prices to go up. So what about car banking? Land banking may be frowned on with there being such a shortage of housing in Auckland, but with car banking there’s no problem. Take this very tidy 1989 Commodore – it’s worth stuff-all now but the future could be quite rosy.
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How to use snow chains - 17th June, 2016

If you live in the North Island then you may have never used chains but at this time of the year it’s something you need to know about if you plan on a skiing trip or a South Island jaunt. Probably best to bone up on this before you’re in a blizzard.
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News

Where the Rubber Meets the Road – Don’t be a Cheapskate - 14th June, 2016

Being winter we’ve got to talk about tyres – those rubber things that connect your heavy car to the road that we take for granted. It’s probably happened to many of us; we see an ad for cheap tyres, usually screamed at us through the TV by a guy with an energy drink addiction, only to find that when we go to buy some we are given more expensive options to consider. Is it really worth spending more when buying tyres?
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News

Winter’s Back and Your Car Battery Might not be Happy - 7th June, 2016

For much of the country, including where I live, winter hasn’t exactly got going yet. But that hasn’t stopped it killing my wiper blades (see this previous story) and now it’s taken my battery. This is all really inconvenient because I was just on my way to an important meeting (is there ever a convenient time to find your car won’t start?). So before you are faced with a cold Monday morning disaster here’s something to consider.
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News Reviews

Looks Sensational from any Angle... Except the Front - 3rd June, 2016

Usually the front end of a 1959 Austin Healey 3000 is a thing of beauty, but a coming together with something very solid has disfigured this poor old car terribly. However, being a rare and incredibly desirable car I’m sure we’ll see this one as good as new after some corrective surgery. Will you be the next owner to put the smile back on its face?
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Top Gear Returns - 27th May, 2016

The first episode of the new look Top Gear airs in England on Sunday and a week later on Prime in NZ. So what can we expect? And who are the new presenters? Are you looking forward to it or have you moved on?
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News Reviews

Ford’s Fake Engine Sounds - 23rd May, 2016

Remember when you were a kid and you put a strip cut from an old ice cream container on the frame of your bike so it flapped in the spokes making it sound like a motorbike? Well Ford reckon us kids may have been on to something and they’ve come up with their own versions.
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News Reviews

Charming and Oddball - 19th May, 2016

Amongst the usual array of mainstream cars that are, by and large, Turners bread and butter – and the sort of cars most people want – there is a few oddballs that you don’t see very often. It’s these little curiosities that catch my eye. Ladies and gentlemen I present to you the Panther Lima - a British sports car you may not have heard of...
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Can it do it? Yes it Can-Am - 16th May, 2016

It’s not a bike and it’s not a car but it sure looks like fun. This brand new Can-Am Spyder F3 can be ridden/driven on a standard car licence and is fast, fun and safe. It’s an unwanted prize with only delivery kilometres on the clock and a full manufacturer’s warranty. The only thing not new about it is the price.
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Reviews Auctions

Best Car in the World - 13th May, 2016

At last month’s “World Car of the Year” awards the big overall winner was the Mazda MX-5. A car we first saw in 1989, that has changed relatively little in 27 years, still has what it takes to win over the world’s motoring journalists. So what makes the mighty wee Mazda so good?
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News Reviews

An Italian feast for the Eyes - 9th May, 2016

In recognition of Leicester City football club achieving what most thought impossible by winning the English Premier League with a squad that cost, in Premier League terms, the equivalent of a box of beers and fifty quid, today’s blog is about a beautiful Italian underdog. Well we didn’t have any Noble hand built sports cars in stock (made in Leicester) but as the man responsible for Leicester’s giant killing season is Italian we thought an Italian car that costs less than it looks would be appropriate.
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Reviews Auctions

I Can See Clearly Now The Rain has Gone - 6th May, 2016

Yesterday I drove to Wellington from Napier and back again. On the way down the rain started in Featherston and never stopped until I got back to Napier. In Wellington it was torrential and the whole time, from the first wipe until the last, my wipers juddered noisily across the windscreen like a stick being dragged down a corrugated iron fence. With 150kms still to drive and with the sun below the horizon the rubber blades started to disintegrate leaving the metal parts to screech across the screen like a hyena with a guts ache. Could it be time for new blades?
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Maintenance

Falcon - Going, Going... - 4th May, 2016

The Final Falcon will roll off Ford’s production line in October this year and the plant will be decommissioned and sold. For the first time in nearly 60 years you won’t be able to buy a new Falcon once stock runs out. However, you will be able to buy a used one and they are actually pretty good value.
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News Reviews

Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover - 29 April,

Sure, it looks set to contest a demolition derby but there’s more to this 1963 Plymouth Belvedere than meets the eye. If your workshop is screaming out for a winter project then this might be the car for you. And it’s being auctioned at Turners Damaged vehicles auction on the 10th May in Wellington.
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Auctions Classic Cars

The Little Suzuki That Could - 26 April, 2016

Last week we looked at New Zealand’s biggest selling car which turned out to be a ute, the Ford Ranger. With March new car sales figures out we can see the Ranger still tops the charts followed by two other utes, the Toyota Hilux and the Mitsubishi Triton - we really do love our utes. But snapping at the heels of these three, like a playful Chihuahua, is the Suzuki Swift. So what’s the Suzuki’s attraction?
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Reviews Auctions

As American as Cheez Whiz and Twinkies - 22 April, 2016

The Ranger may be top of the charts in NZ but the big daddy of pick-ups is Ford’s F series. It has been the biggest selling car in America since dinosaurs roamed the planet. Currently Ford sells one and a half F Series trucks every minute of every day yet they are a comparatively rare sight on NZ roads. This one, however, was sold new in NZ and it’s looking for a new owner at the Christchurch Classic car auction next Saturday.
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Loads of Limos - 19 April, 2016

If you fancy living the life of a Member of Parliament without having to deal with elections, select committees, tricky portfolios and Patrick Gower then you could make a start by snagging yourself one of 32 Crown BMW limos up for Tender at Turners starting next week.
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News Reviews

Ford Ranger – Why So Popular? 13 April, 2016

Last year the Ford Ranger ute knocked the Corolla off the number one perch it’s had a mortgage on for decades. So why do Kiwis love it so much? Are we becoming more like America where the Ford F150 truck has been a perennial chart topper since the Stone Age? Or is it just a really good car?
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One for the Rotary Fans - 8th April, 2016

An auction estimate just south of $20k may seem crazy for an old Mazda to the casual observer. But the reality is these old Rotary Mazda sedans are becoming hotter and hotter property along with a few other mainstream cars of the 70s and 80s. This 1980 RX-4 is being auctioned at Turners Christchurch as part of their classic auction.
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Protect Your Investment - 4th April, 2016

Our cars are going to be one of the biggest investments we make in life yet we often treat them like they are worthless. I guess this is because they tend to lose money when we sell them and cost money when we drive them. And it’s true, they are a depreciating asset and they require even more money to run. But we need them and with a bit of effort they could hurt us financially a bit less.
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Maintenance

The Coolest Car For Sale in NZ? 1st April, 2016

It’s not currently road legal, it’ll be a pain to get in and out of if you’re not an Olympic gymnast and it’ll no doubt cost an absolute fortune to secure ownership. But, you know what? None of that matters. This Ford GT-40 replica is the coolest thing on four wheels and it’s being auctioned at Turners Christchurch.
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Reviews Classic Cars

Buying a Car from Afar - 30th March, 2016

Buying a car that you can’t see in person can be daunting, especially if you are dealing with private sellers who see their car through rose tinted glasses. Terms such as “mint condition” and “immaculate for its age” get thrown around liberally and often come with photos that are either terrible or are taken from twenty feet away. So how can you comfortably buy a car without seeing it?
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News

Don’t Be an Easter Egg - 24th March, 2016

It’s Easter weekend so the traffic is going to be hell. And when the traffic is a nightmare we usually all have stories of near misses with bad drivers come Tuesday, and the bad drivers are rarely us. But it’s unlikely that all the bad driving is by other people so maybe we all need to check our own bad habits. I seem to remember something about glass houses and stones... Here are some bad habits you may not even realise you have.
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Italian Stallion for Donkey Money - 21st March, 2016

It’s Italian, has a twin turbo V8, an interior from a high class gentleman’s club and supercar looks. It’s also NZ new, has low kilometres for its age and less than 5000 were built. No, it’s not a Ferrari but it is fast, rare, exotic and - you’d think - expensive. But it’s not expensive. In fact it’s ridiculously cheap.
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Angry German Canary – 17th March, 2016

It may look like some angry German canary but this Porsche Cayman actually gets its name from a small alligator that will chew your face off given half a chance. And that probably suits the Cayman. It looks like a scaled down version of its big sister, the 911, but it’s still got sharp teeth and it will bite. This one is champing at the bit to find a new owner.
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Future Classic Z Car?

Everyone remembers the Datsun 240Z, the Japanese E-Type with, these day, Japanese E-Type prices to match. Fifteen years ago a really nice 240Z could be bought for under $20k and we all thought they were outrageously expensive then. Well try buying one now. So does this bode well for the 240z’s younger, slightly overweight brother?
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Rare E-Type Found in a Garden – 8th March, 2016

Found under a tarp in an English garden having been parked up in 1969, this 1963 Jaguar E-Type is a “barn find” hunters dream and it’s now for sale. Being an early model it’s a rare car anyway, but it also has some cool rock and roll history. It may be rough but it’ll take a fat wallet to buy it with plenty more needed to restore it.
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Bargain Bavarian Barnstormer - 3rd March, 2016

$60,000 – $80,000 may not sound like a bargain but this 2013 BMW 650i Coupe with only 28,000kms on the clock had a new price tag of $221,000. That’s a whopping price tag but this car has some pretty whopping performance.
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One for the Good Ol’ Boys - 29th February, 2016

If this was America this Dodge Ram 1500 Big Daddy pick up would be covered in “Trump for President” stickers and be driven by a big guy in a trucker’s cap called Bubba. Luckily it’s in NZ, at Turners Wellington, which means the next owner doesn’t need to be an angry redneck.
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Urban Adventurer - 25th February, 2016

For all its off-road pedigree and its rugged build quality it’s fairly safe to say that not many Range Rover Evoques will ever experience a muddy track. The Evoque is an urban offroader and a very comfortable one, too. This 2014 example is high-spec and the cheapest one on the market. And it’s ready to take on the gruelling school run.
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Has This Commer Come to a Full stop?

Whilst it looks like its trucking days may be over I really hope that’s not the case. As I looked through the photos of this 1954 Commer Superpoise truck I couldn’t help noticing its photogenic qualities. Its faded paint, rusty chrome and worn interior remind me of the heavily lined and tanned face of an old man who’s worked hard all his life but still looks ready for more. This truck needs recommissioning, not restoring. Are you up for it?
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Perfect Timing - 18th February, 2016

This weekend is Napier’s annual celebration of its Art Deco architecture and all things early 20th century. Every year hundreds of veteran cars from all over NZ and beyond congregate in the city and cruise around adding to the period of Art Deco weekend. And as luck would have it, Turners has a perfect car to join the fun. And it’s for sale, too.
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Did Somebody Call an Ambulance? 15th February, 2016

I’m not sure which Government department purchased this Ambulance in 1982 but seeing as the Range Rover was the poshest 4x4 wagon available back then we have to assume its passengers were pretty important, if somewhat injured or dying. Still, 34 years of service is pretty good value for tax-payers and now it’s for sale with an auction estimate that’s a bit of a life saver.
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Reviews Auctions

Did You Know There Was a Fairmont GT? 12th February, 2016

It looks like a Ford Falcon XY GT but there’s more to it than that. It was built in Australia for the South African market, is badged Fairmont GT and is very rare. It’s also being auctioned by Turners Dunedin with a $1 reserve. So what’s the story behind the African GT and is it the same as the uber collectible Falcon version we know.
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Reviews Auctions Classic Cars

Big Hair and Shoulder Pads Required - 9th February, 2016

The SL class Mercs have always been a favourite of wealthy scenesters and movie stars since they first appeared in 1954 with the gorgeous (and insanely valuable) SL300 Gullwing. This NZ new 500SL from 1993 may not command the massive money of the early cars just yet but surely that’s a good reason to get in now. With an auction estimate of just $6900-$8900 the only way must surely be up.
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Mildly Munted Merc - 5th February, 2016

1967 was a great year for music (The Doors debut album, Sgt Peppers, Velvet Underground and Nico, Pink Floyd’s debut album, Jimi Hendrix’ debut album – the list is huge actually), births (Will Ferrell, Julia Roberts, Vanilla Ice etc) and cars, too. Like this 1967 Mercedes 230S Fintail with a lightly bent backside (who’s isn’t at 48 years young?). It’s well worth saving and maybe you could be its saviour?
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A Bit of Posh For Not Much Dosh - 2nd February, 2016

Once upon a time you had to be a wealthy business person, a politician or a head of State to afford the luxury of wafting around in a Jaguar. But this classic looking Jag has an auction estimate of just $2000 - $3000, which is a worn out old Corolla price. A Jag still screams money even if you don’t need much to own this one. So what gives?
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Reviews Auctions

The Man Pod and other Delights - 28th January, 2016

The Waterview Connection in Auckland is currently the largest infrastructure project under construction in NZ and Turners has the job of selling the assets as they are no longer needed. It will be the largest infrastructure asset sale ever in NZ. But for the average punter, who’s not planning on large scale engineering projects in the near future, what is there of interest? Well, we give you the Man Pod.
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Reviews

Sharp Super Snipe - 26th January, 2016

For a while back in the eighties these old British bangers were favoured by smash up derby drivers due to their tank like qualities. Such blatant lack of respect for some of the Mother country’s finest has resulted in most of these old timers being reduced to scrap. Few remain, and even fewer remain in this condition meaning this rather stately looking Super Snipe is a very rare sight. And you can buy it at Turners.
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News Reviews

Lifetime Project Anyone? – 22nd January, 2016

It’s not just cars that Turners sell. Pretty much everything comes through the gates and some of it is pretty cool, strange or unexpected. This 10 metre wooden launch probably falls into the unexpected category due to its size and the fact it’s not sitting in the water. But with sea levels on the rise and flooding becoming more common it could be a useful addition to your back section.
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News Reviews

Tangerine Scream – 20th January, 2016

Some cars with crazy colour schemes can be “all mouth and no trousers” when it comes to delivering performance to match the looks. But this 2015 Ford Focus ST’s attention seeking hi-viz colour is backed up with some pretty impressive power and handling. And you can buy this one when it’s auctioned next week at Turners Hamilton.
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News Reviews

Swedish Flying Brick – 14th January, 2016

It may not be the prettiest car ever to drive down the road but the old Volvo 244GLE is a solid, reliable classic with a surprising motorsport pedigree. This 1982 model at Turners Dunedin has been owned by a father and son since new and is in pretty decent nick for 30+ years old. And there’s something kind of cool about the Swedish flying brick.
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News Reviews

You’ll Love This Sea-Doo, Even if the Fish Don’t - 11th January, 2016

If you want to go fishing but don’t want to cast a line off a beach and don’t want the hassle of a boat or the effort of a kayak then this fully set up Sea-Doo could be the answer. The trip to where the fish are biting will be fast and exciting and if you catch something too big to bring on board then you can tow it home.
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News Reviews

Historic Harley - 7th January, 2016

It may look like it comes from way back in Harley Davidson’s history but this Harley cruiser is actually from 1986. Although it’s not as old as it looks this Softail Heritage is quite a historic machine and it’s being auctioned right now.
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News Reviews

All Fired Up and Ready to Go - 5th January, 2016

It would make a great promotional vehicle or a big boy’s toy, but you know what, this 1978 International fire appliance would make a pretty good fire engine for putting out fires and stuff. Whatever you’d want to use it for is up to you, all you’ve got to do is bid.
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Stealth Porsche

Stealth Porsche
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Little(?) Red Corvette
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Cheap Fun for Under $2K
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Want a Harley but Prefer Four Wheels?
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The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round
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Maserati for Mini Money
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IT’S A FIRE ENGINE!
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Cheap WRX Project
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The Last (decent) Samurai?
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Pretty Porka
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Retro Hot Hatches Under the Hammer
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Ugly Austin is Kinda Cool
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Commanding Convertible
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Nothing Says Summer Like a Beach Buggy
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Zombie Apocalypse
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Get Out of My Way, Peasants!
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Classic Shed Find Alfa
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Ram-A-Dam-A-Ding Dong
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Discovered: Bentley in Bits
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Hot Honda
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Rotary Rarity
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Choppers on the Block
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Godzilla Almighty
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Wolf in Kermit’s Clothing
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Cheap Porsche – Pleasure or Pain?
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Riley Ace of Spies
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Hang on, help is on its way
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Pedigree Cat for Tabby Cash
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A Stretch without Stretching the Budget
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1.2 Million kilometres by One Owner!
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Wicked Wagon
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If it’s Rockin’ don’t Bother Knockin’
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Flat Black – Double Shot, No Sugar
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Derelict Drop Top
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Sh*t Happens
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Minty Old School Wagon
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Beautiful Benz
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Coooor! Vette
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Baby you’re a Starlet
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Muscle Bound Mustang
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Sunken Treasure
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Maserati Style for Mazda Money
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Cut Price Cool
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Scout’s Honour
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Herbie Rides Again
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When Falcons Get Cool
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Home and Away
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Get Bitten by a Cobra
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Fire up the Ford
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The Fabulous Fifties
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Margaret Thatcher’s Battle Bus For Sale
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When the Wheels Come Off
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Classic Ducati Auction
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Ticket to Ride
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Beauty and the Beast
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Tasty Japanese Classic
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Passionate Ferrari Buyers
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Turners Super Car Saturday – The Low Down
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Super Car Saturday
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Old School Classic Corolla
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Army Land Rover Needs a new Soldier
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Shabby Chevvy
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Theory of Mitsubishi Evolution
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Poor Person’s Porsche
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Barn Find Ferrari sells for Crazy Money
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Comfy Camping off the Beaten Track
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Betta Getta Vespa
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Get it while you can
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Cat Rescue
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You’re not the Boss of Me
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Hawkes Bay Hyper Car
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Scorching Escort Project
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A New Chart Topper
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Classic workhorse
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The Desert Sled
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No friends or lots of friends?
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The Best of the 2014 Blogs
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Italian (miniature) Stallion
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The French Collection – The Ultimate Barn Find
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How fast does your speedo say you’re going?
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Cool Buy of the Week
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It’s Christchurch Classics Time Again
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Super Rare Falcon GT-HO up for grabs
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THUNDERBIRDS ARE GO- ing under the hammer
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Bargain Buy – Future Classic?
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Ken Block’s Pumped up Pony
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Classy CLK for Corolla Cash
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Halloween Nightmare Car
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Driverless Race Car – The Future?
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Driverless Race Car – The Future?
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Bargain Buy – Bathurst winning pedigree with gas
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Stolen E-Type Recovered after 46 Years
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Interesting Italian
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Rolls Royce Bulk Buy
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Tough as an old Boot
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Easy Rider Harley For Sale
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Bargain Buy – Honda Honey
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Lazy Last Respects?
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The Whole Kit and Caboodle
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Bargain Buy – Saddle up the Pony
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Powered by the Ocean
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Spring is Here
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Power, Prestige and Price
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Rock and Roll Bargain
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Bargain Buy – Champagne for Beer Money
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Faded Aristocrat needs a Grand Home
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Pickup Something Different
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Buy My Barina – Classy ad for a Crappy Car
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Bargain Bond Jag?
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Asleep at the Wheel? Help is coming
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Bulked up Bugatti on a Public Road
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Final Falcon photos released
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Battered, Bruised and Grateful
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Absolute Power
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Four Pot V8 Supercars
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Bargain Buy – World Champions
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Taxi World Champions
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Bogan Bargain?
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Mustang on the V8 Supercar grid?
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Why didn’t this take off?
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Mayor’s Motor Moving On
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Caption this…
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Stage Prop Party
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Police Brutality
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Bargain Buy – 16th June, 2014

Bargain Buy – 16th June, 2014
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Driven to Distraction
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Cool Buy Blog – 9th June, 2014

Cool Buy Blog – 9th June, 2014
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Inflating the Price
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Google takes the Wheel

Google takes the Wheel
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Full Frontal Ferrari
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The Real James Bond Aston Martin For Sale
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Bargain Buy – 19th May, 2014

Bargain Buy – 19th May, 2014
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Turning the Boring into Exciting, Bizarre and Desirable
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Supermodel – Super Cheap
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Every Epic Story has a Great Start
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Avis Auction
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Finally! Self Cleaning Cars
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Rare, Fast, Old and New

Rare, Fast, Old and New
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Foxy ’48 Ford
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Sensible Skoda
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Christchurch Classics
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Cool Buy – 31st March, 2014
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Extraordinary Power
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They don’t make them like they used to
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All Action Audi
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Cool Buy – 10th March, 2014
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Supercar Sofa
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Ailing Alfa
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Cool Buy Blog – 24th February, 2014

Cool Buy Blog – 24th February, 2014
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Holy Corvettes
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Back to the Future, and Back Again
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Volvo turns up the Volume
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Falcon GT
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First Ever Porsche Found in a Shed
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Are You an Ambulance Chaser?
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Maserati Mishap
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$1 Reserve Broken Aston
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A wolf in canary clothing
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Are our cars getting smaller?

Are our cars getting smaller?
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Bargain Buy – 13th January, 2014

Bargain Buy – 13th January, 2014
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Bargain Buy – 6 January 2014

Bargain Buy – 6 January 2014
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Some Friday Fun

Blog – 20th December, 2013
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Fragrant French Flare

Fragrant French Flare
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Holden Name will Hold On

Blog – 13th December, 2013
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Interesting Buy – 9th December, 2013

Interesting Buy – 9th December, 2013
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Breaking – Holden gone by 2016

Blog – 6th December, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 2nd December, 2013

Bargain Buy – 2nd December, 2013
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The President died but his limo lived on

Blog – 29th November, 2013
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Bargain Buy Blog 25th November 2013

Bargain Buy Blog 25th November 2013
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Defence Force

Blog 22nd November 2013
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Bella Macchina!

Bella Macchina!
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Website of the week - KaleCoauto – car parts you really need

Blog – 15th November, 2013
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Bargain Buy Blog – 12 November, 2013

Bargain Buy Blog – 12 November, 2013
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Coffin Car
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Fire Breathing Pony or Incontinent Donkey
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Ad of the week – Mini Mayhem

Ad of the week – Mini Mayhem
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The Romance of a Barn Find

Blog – 25th October, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 21st October 2013

Bargain Buy – 21st October 2013
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Saturday’s Classic Car Auction

Saturday’s Classic Car Auction
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Toys for Grown-ups

Toys for Grown-ups
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Blog 11th October, 2013
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Fire Engine Red Cortina

Fire Engine Red Cortina
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A Storage Wars story to end them all
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Bargain Buy – 30th September,2013

Bargain Buy – 30th September,2013
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Bonkers Brazilian Businessman Buries Bentley

Bonkers Brazilian Businessman Buries Bentley
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When the Money is Really Tight

When the Money is Really Tight
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Incredible Stash of Old, Brand New Cars

Blog – 20th September, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 16th September, 2013

Bargain Buy – 16th September, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 9th September, 2013

Bargain Buy – 9th September, 2013
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Bargain Buy 2nd September, 2013

Bargain Buy 2nd September, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 27th August, 2013

Bargain Buy – 27th August, 2013
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Financial crisis? What financial crisis?

Financial crisis? What financial crisis?
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Bargain Buy 19th August, 2013

Bargain Buy 19th August, 2013
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Oh Lord won’t you buy me a Mercedes Benz?

Oh Lord won’t you buy me a Mercedes Benz?
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Bargain Buy 12th August, 2013

Bargain Buy 12th August, 2013
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How long does it take to change a headlight bulb?

How long does it take to change a headlight bulb?
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Bargain Buy 5th August, 2013

Bargain Buy 5th August, 2013
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Bargain Buy 29th July, 2013

Bargain Buy 29th July, 2013
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Need a house? Need a car? Need it now?

Need a house? Need a car? Need it now?
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A Champagne Car for Beer Money

A Champagne Car for Beer Money
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Auckland to Wellington in style for $7.80

Auckland to Wellington in style for $7.80
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Bargain Buy 8th July, 2013

Bargain Buy 8th July, 2013
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Knocked the B@stard Off

Knocked the B@stard Off
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Bargain Buy 1st July, 2013

Bargain Buy 1st July, 2013
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Accountants and Architects are coming to the V8 Supercars

Accountants and Architects are coming to the V8 Supercars
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Bargain Buy 24th June 2013

Bargain Buy 24th June 2013
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Interesting Buy – 18th June, 2013

Interesting Buy – 18th June, 2013
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Big collection of little cars – June 2013

Big collection of little cars – June 2013
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Bargain Buy 10th June, 2013

Bargain Buy 10th June, 2013
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Beautiful Car Alert – Alfa Romeo Disco Volante

Beautiful Car Alert – Alfa Romeo Disco Volante
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The most expensive Toyota ever

The most expensive Toyota ever
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Please pull over, Sir

Please pull over, Sir
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Bargain Buy – 27th May 2013

Bargain Buy – 27th May 2013
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Farewell Ford Falcon

Farewell Ford Falcon
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Car of the week – 20 May 2013

Car of the week – 20 May 2013
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Fab Four Ferrari to be sold

Fab Four Ferrari to be sold
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Bargain Buy – 13th May, 2013

Bargain Buy – 13th May, 2013
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Do we have an obesity epidemic?

Do we have an obesity epidemic?
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Bargain Buy – 6th May 2013

Bargain Buy – 6th May 2013
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NZ designed cars – 3rd May13

NZ designed cars – 3rd May13
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Bargain Buy – 29th April, 2013

Bargain Buy – 29th April, 2013
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Picture Perfect – 26th April 2013

Picture Perfect – 26th April 2013
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Cool car of the week – 22nd April 2013

Cool car of the week – 22nd April 2013
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V8 Supercars Pukekohe – Jason Richards would have been proud

V8 Supercars Pukekohe – Jason Richards would have been proud
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We’ve got a new website

We’ve got a new website
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How to change four tyres in 2.05 seconds

How to change four tyres in 2.05 seconds
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Interesting Buy – 8th April, 2013

Interesting Buy – 8th April, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 2nd April, 2013

Bargain Buy – 2nd April, 2013
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What was your first car?

What was your first car?
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Interesting buy – 25th March 2013

Interesting buy – 25th March 2013
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Christchurch Classic Auction – March 2013

Christchurch Classic Auction – March 2013
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Interesting buy of the week – 18th March, 2013

Interesting buy of the week – 18th March, 2013
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Interesting buy – 11 March, 2013

Interesting buy – 11 March, 2013
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Bargain Buy – 4th March, 2013

Bargain Buy – 4th March, 2013
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Our guide to buying a good cheap car

Our guide to buying a good cheap car
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Bargain Buy – 25th Feb, 2013

Bargain Buy – 25th Feb, 2013
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Auctions – the thrill of the chase
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Bargain Buy of the Week – February 18th 2012

Bargain Buy of the Week – February 18th 2012
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Bargain Buy of the Week – February 11th 2013

Bargain Buy of the Week – February 11th 2013
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Bargain Buy of the Week– 4th February 2013

Bargain Buy of the Week– 4th February 2013
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WOF changes – we are not all in mortal danger

WOF changes – we are not all in mortal danger
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Bargain Buy – 29th January, 2013

Bargain Buy – 29th January, 2013
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Bargain Buy of the Week – 21st January 2013

Bargain Buy of the Week – 21st January 2013
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Rear ended Roller – January 17th 2013

Rear ended Roller – January 17th 2013
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Bargain Buy of the Week – 14th January 2013

Bargain Buy of the Week – 14th January 2013
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One door shuts and another opens in the Aussie V8s

One door shuts and another opens in the Aussie V8s
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Bargain Buy of the Week – 07th January 2013

Bargain Buy of the Week – 07th January 2013
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Cool dogs not hot dogs

Cool dogs not hot dogs
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Good buy of the week – 17th December 2012

Good buy of the week – 17th December 2012
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Tyres – buy your car a decent Christmas present

Tyres – buy your car a decent Christmas present
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Bargain buy of the week – 11th December

Bargain buy of the week – 11th December
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NZ Driving standards going to the dogs

NZ Driving standards going to the dogs
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Good Buy of the Week – 3rd December 2012

Good Buy of the Week – 3rd December 2012
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Reviews Auctions

There’s only one movie in town this week…

There’s only one movie in town this week…
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Reviews Auctions

Good Buy of the Week – 26th November 2012

Good Buy of the Week – 26th November 2012
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Reviews Auctions

Good buy of the week – 19th November 2012

Good buy of the week – 19th November 2012
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Reviews Auctions

Good buy of the week – 15th November 2012

Good buy of the week – 15th November 2012
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Reviews Auctions

Make buying at auction carefree

Make buying at auction carefree
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Reviews Auctions

Good buy of the week

Good buy of the week
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Reviews Auctions

Show us your wheels

Show us your wheels
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Christchurch Classic auction results

Christchurch Classic auction results
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Not so Aussie V8s
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Another proper car review

Another proper car review
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Self Diagnosis
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Christchurch Classic Auction

Christchurch Classic Auction
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1970 Dodge Challenger R/T – the cool
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WOF survey results – What gives?
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If they’re good enough for Cameron Diaz and Julia Roberts…

If they’re good enough for Cameron Diaz and Julia Roberts…
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Godzilla vs. Turners North Shore

Godzilla vs. Turners North Shore
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