European Classics Under $10,000 —Why Do We Gravitate Towards Project Cars?
About this episode
Exploring the allure of European classics under $10,000, this episode dives into the world of project cars and the unique charm they offer. Hosts Victor, Dylan, Dan, and Rome discuss their experiences with various models, including the BMW E21, Mercedes W123, and Alfa Romeo Spider. They share personal stories, maintenance tips, and the psychology behind why enthusiasts are drawn to these vehicles. The conversation also touches on the importance of community and the satisfaction of restoring classic cars, making it a rich discussion for anyone interested in the automotive hobby.
Guests Wheely Dan @Wheeleydan, Rome @Just_romey_rome and Dylan @mostlystreetparked join the podcast to explain why we gravitate towards project cars. We also delve into a list of affordable European classic cars for under $10,000. What you should be prepared for when owning a cheap classic. How does vintage Mercedes-Benz' appeal to young car enthusiasts.
Volkswagen
"We had the little Volkswagen 8-valve, 16-valve crew, which was sweet."
Volkswagen is a car company from Germany that makes many popular cars, like the Beetle and Golf. They are known for building reliable vehicles.
Volkswagen is a German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and Golf. The brand is recognized for its engineering and quality.
BMW E30
"...TM style. Cosworth was there. We had a DTM style, E30, which was really cool, a couple Porsches. So, y..."
The BMW 3 Series is a small luxury car that is fun to drive and has a comfortable interior. It's popular because it combines good performance with a touch of class, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been in production since 1975. Known for its sporty handling and premium features, it has become a benchmark in the segment and is often discussed for its performance and luxury balance.
DTM livery
"...you mentioned Rome. We all know Rome's. I've posted the DTM livery, Cosworth. I did see actually one on Marketplace..."
DTM is a racing series in Germany, and a DTM livery is the special paint job and stickers that race cars have to show off their sponsors and teams.
DTM stands for Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters, a popular touring car racing series in Germany. A DTM livery refers to the specific design and graphics used on cars that compete in this series, often featuring sponsor logos and unique color schemes.
automatic transmission
"...it's an automatic. That's right. It was an automatic. Yeah, and I was thinking like, damn, that's actually not bad..."
An automatic transmission is a system in cars that changes gears for you, so you don't have to do it yourself. This makes driving easier, especially in traffic.
An automatic transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that automatically changes the gear ratios as the vehicle moves, allowing the driver to focus on steering and acceleration without needing to manually shift gears.
TCM
"...the transmission's like 1500. It comes with its own TCM or TCM, but you need those things, then it should be good..."
TCM is a part of an automatic car that helps control how the gears shift. It makes sure the car runs smoothly when changing speeds.
TCM stands for Transmission Control Module, an electronic component that manages the operation of an automatic transmission. It ensures smooth shifting and optimal performance by controlling various transmission functions.
flywheel
"...you got to like source a flywheel a lot of the time, and then you have to get a driveshaft made..."
A flywheel is a round metal part in a car that helps keep the engine running smoothly. It stores energy and makes it easier for the engine to transfer power to the wheels.
A flywheel is a mechanical device that stores rotational energy. In automotive applications, it helps smooth out the power delivery from the engine to the transmission and can be crucial in performance builds.
driveshaft
"...you have to get a driveshaft made. So those are kind of the only two things mentally that would be a hurdle..."
A driveshaft is a long metal rod that helps send power from the engine to the wheels of a car. It's important for making the car move forward or backward.
The driveshaft is a component that transmits power from the engine and transmission to the wheels. It's essential for the vehicle's ability to move, especially in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive systems.
manual transmission
"...you want to be able to drive that car hard, like with a manual..."
A manual transmission is a system in a car where the driver has to change gears by hand using a stick and a pedal. It can give the driver more control over how the car drives.
A manual transmission is a type of gearbox that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. It provides more control over the vehicle's power and speed compared to automatic transmissions.
Mercedes-Benz Cclass
"Right. Yeah. I think seeing, like we talked about this once, seeing a manual Mercedes alone to us as Americans is odd, you know, like you have to go back to like, I know the C-Class did them back in like the 2012, might have been the last year, 2013, but like those were, you know,"
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a smaller luxury car that offers a comfortable ride and nice features. It's a good option for people who want a fancy car without going for the biggest models.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a compact executive car that combines luxury with performance. It has been a popular choice for those seeking a smaller, more affordable entry into the Mercedes lineup.
spark plugs
"I needed to place the spark plugs in the car. I think it's, I think it's misfiring at some point."
Spark plugs are small parts in a car's engine that help start the engine by creating a small spark. If they are old or broken, the car may not run well.
Spark plugs are essential components in gasoline engines that ignite the air-fuel mixture, allowing the engine to run. They can wear out over time and may cause misfiring if not replaced.
Datsun
"What about you with the Datsun? So I just did oil change on the Datsun. I fixed, we were having an issue with the taillights."
Datsun is a car brand that used to make affordable cars. They were popular for being reliable and fun to drive.
Datsun is a brand of automobiles that was produced by Nissan from the 1930s until the early 1980s. It is known for its affordable and reliable vehicles, especially in the compact and sports car segments.
oil change
"So I just did oil change on the Datsun. I fixed, we were having an issue with the taillights."
An oil change is when you replace the old oil in a car's engine with new oil. It's important for keeping the engine healthy.
An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure where the old engine oil is removed and replaced with new oil. This helps to keep the engine running smoothly and prolongs its life.
brake fluid
"I was bleeding them. I was getting, you know, brake fluid to come out."
Brake fluid is a special liquid that helps your car's brakes work. When you press the brake pedal, the fluid moves through the system to help stop the car. It's important to keep the right amount of brake fluid for safety.
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in the braking system of vehicles. It transfers force from the brake pedal to the brake components, allowing the vehicle to stop effectively. Maintaining proper brake fluid levels is crucial for safe braking performance.
brake calipers
"So one on the inside and one on the outside. So my inner caliper was pushing, but my outer wasn't doing anything."
Brake calipers are parts of the braking system that squeeze the brake pads against the wheels to help stop the car. They are essential for making sure your brakes work properly.
Brake calipers are components of a disc brake system that house the brake pads and apply pressure to the brake rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle. They play a crucial role in the braking performance of a car.
AC
"...even though I don't have AC, I have little like toggles that you could pull from under the dash..."
AC means air conditioning, which helps keep the inside of the car cool and comfortable when it's hot outside.
AC stands for air conditioning, a system in vehicles that cools and dehumidifies the air inside the cabin for passenger comfort, especially in hot weather.
Alfa Romeo Milano
"...ean cars have them. Like my, my spider has it, my Milano doesn't, but that just directs air straight into..."
The Alfa Romeo Milano is a small car that has a unique look and is fun to drive. It's known for being stylish and has a special design that sets it apart from other cars.
The Alfa Romeo Milano, also known as the 75 in some markets, is a compact executive car produced from 1982 to 1992. It is notable for its unique design and rear-wheel-drive layout, often discussed for its Italian styling and driving dynamics.
Chevrolet Corvette
"Yeah. The old like Chevy's too, like old Corvettes and pickup trucks and stuff..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast sports car made by Chevrolet. It's famous for its sleek look and powerful engine, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engines. It has been a symbol of American automotive performance since its introduction in 1953.
Geo Storm
"What about you Dylan? Any thing new for the Geostorm?"
The Geo Storm is a small car made in the early 1990s. It was designed to be sporty and fun to drive, especially for younger people.
The Geo Storm is a compact car that was produced in the early 1990s. It is known for its sporty design and was aimed at younger buyers looking for an affordable performance vehicle.
brakes
"I'm going to do the front brakes on it, new pads and rotors."
Brakes are what help a car slow down or stop. They are made up of different parts that work together to make the car safe to drive.
Brakes are a crucial safety component of a vehicle, allowing it to slow down or stop. They consist of various parts, including pads, rotors, and calipers, which work together to create friction and reduce speed.
PYP app
"...There's an app. If people don't know, there's a PYP pick your part app. That's for all of the LKQ junkyards, which are all over the country. Wow. And then you put your car in..."
The PYP app helps you find used car parts at junkyards. You can set it up to notify you when parts for your car are available, making it easier to save money on repairs.
The PYP (Pick Your Part) app allows users to find and get notifications about used car parts available at local junkyards. It is particularly useful for DIY enthusiasts looking for affordable parts.
LKQ
"...there's a PYP pick your part app. That's for all of the LKQ junkyards, which are all over the country. Wow. And then you put your car in..."
LKQ is a company that runs junkyards where you can find used car parts. They help people save money on repairs by providing cheaper alternatives to new parts.
LKQ is a leading provider of alternative and specialty parts to repair and accessorize automobiles. They operate a network of junkyards where used parts can be sourced.
Porsche 911
"...especially if you're considering a European car under $10,000. Exactly. For me, my 2001 911, the convertible top was very slow at moving"
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car known for its speed and handling. The 2001 version is one of the newer designs, and it's popular among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since the early 1960s. The 2001 model is part of the 996 generation, known for its distinctive design and advanced technology for its time.
hydraulic fluid
"I got the Porsche hydraulic fluid and just had them fill up the reservoir..."
Hydraulic fluid is a special liquid that helps parts of a car move. It's used in things like brakes and convertible roofs to make them work smoothly.
Hydraulic fluid is a specialized liquid used in hydraulic systems to transmit power. In vehicles, it is often used in systems like brakes, steering, and convertible tops to facilitate movement and operation.
Ram 1500
"... those like Ram motors, like, I don't know, maybe 1500 a piece somewhere around there. So I'm glad he s..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for both work and everyday use. It's known for being comfortable to drive and has a lot of useful features.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. It has been a popular choice for both work and leisure, often discussed for its towing capacity and innovative features.
preserving the car
"...you mentioned like preserving the car, right? Us as like car enthusiasts have this like innate desire to want to keep cars on the road, preserve them..."
Preserving a car means taking care of it so it stays in good shape and can still be driven. Many car lovers enjoy fixing up older cars to keep them looking nice and running well.
Preserving a car refers to the practice of maintaining and restoring vehicles to keep them in good condition, often to retain their value and historical significance. Car enthusiasts often engage in this process to ensure that classic or vintage cars remain operational and visually appealing.
car enthusiasts
"...Us as like car enthusiasts have this like innate desire to want to keep cars on the road, preserve them..."
Car enthusiasts are people who really love cars. They often spend time fixing, collecting, or learning about different types of cars because they find it interesting and fun.
Car enthusiasts are individuals who have a strong passion for cars, often involving activities like collecting, restoring, and modifying vehicles. They typically enjoy learning about automotive history, technology, and performance.
Nissan 300 ZX
"I had that Z31 300 ZX, which like nobody loved. And I slammed it, put it on Watts and made it kind of put my own spin on it."
The Nissan 300 ZX is a sporty car from the late '80s and early '90s. The Z31 version is recognized for its unique look and good performance, appealing to car fans.
The Nissan 300 ZX is a sports car that was produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Z31 generation is known for its distinctive design and performance capabilities, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
alignment
"...better tires or an alignment or something like that, that feeling when you get back behind the wheel, you go, Oh, this is, you know, 10 times better."
Alignment is about making sure your car's wheels are set correctly so they point straight and don't wear out unevenly. It helps your car drive better and keeps the tires lasting longer.
Alignment refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's suspension system, which affects how the tires make contact with the road. Proper alignment ensures that the vehicle handles correctly and that tire wear is minimized.
better tires
"...better tires or an alignment or something like that, that feeling when you get back behind the wheel, you go, Oh, this is, you know, 10 times better."
Better tires are higher quality tires that can help your car grip the road better, making it safer and more fun to drive. They can improve how your car handles turns and stops.
Upgrading to better tires can significantly improve a vehicle's handling, grip, and overall performance. Tires are crucial for safety and driving dynamics, affecting everything from acceleration to braking.
out-the-door price
"...this is why we have the out the market community is to see these cars, see the potential, see the areas that the factory either skimped on and fix those issues to make your car a better, a better driving car. But yeah,..."
The out-the-door price is how much you actually pay for a car after adding everything together, like taxes and fees. It's the final price you need to know before buying a car.
The out-the-door price (OTD) is the total amount a buyer pays for a vehicle, including the purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and any additional dealer fees. It's important for buyers to understand this figure to avoid unexpected costs.
Datsun 510
"that you're kind of like, like, I'm so, I'm so beyond what that, what my 510 is worth. But"
The Datsun 510 is a small car made by Nissan that many people love to customize. It was popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s and is known for being fun to drive.
The Datsun 510 is a compact car produced by Nissan from 1968 to 1973, known for its lightweight design and sporty performance. It has become a popular choice among car enthusiasts for modifications and racing.
Bring a Trailer
"...the cars I bought on bring a trailer that I know are going to, I'm going to keep because like Rome said, it's an expression of who I am..."
Bring a Trailer is a website where people can buy and sell classic cars through online auctions. It's popular among car lovers looking for unique vehicles.
Bring a Trailer is an online auction platform that specializes in classic and enthusiast cars. It allows users to buy and sell vehicles through a bidding process, often attracting a community of car enthusiasts.
Alfa Romeo
"you know, my two Alpha Romeos. So those are the two cars that I don't mind putting money into."
Alfa Romeo is a car brand from Italy that makes stylish and sporty cars. They are known for being fun to drive and have a long history in racing.
Alfa Romeo is an Italian luxury car manufacturer known for its stylish designs and sporty performance. The brand has a rich history in motorsports and is celebrated for its engineering and driving dynamics.
aftermarket support
"you're essentially fixing it to be better, right? Like you said, aftermarket support."
Aftermarket support means that there are extra parts and accessories available for cars that you can buy from other companies, not just the car maker. This helps you make your car better or more unique.
Aftermarket support refers to the availability of parts and accessories for vehicles that are not provided by the original manufacturer. This allows owners to customize or improve their cars.
Jaguar Xj Jaguar
"...servation part of like you looking at, you know, XJ Jaguar from the 70s, that's a project barn find. And you..."
The Jaguar XJ is a large luxury car that's known for being very stylish and comfortable. It's a great choice for people who want a high-end driving experience.
The Jaguar XJ is a full-size luxury sedan known for its sophisticated design and performance. It has been a symbol of British luxury since its introduction in 1968 and is often discussed for its elegance and comfort.
BMW E28
"...I'm like, wow, like Z3M coupe with a 2JZ in it or E28 with a 2J in it, like doesn't really sound that ..."
The BMW 5 Series is a luxury car that's bigger than the 3 Series and offers a comfortable ride with lots of features. It's popular among professionals who want a stylish and reliable vehicle.
The BMW 5 Series is a mid-size luxury sedan that has been in production since 1972, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It is often discussed for its role as a business executive car and its reputation for quality.
Chevrolet Bel Air
"...can stuff since the late 50s. So you'll see a 57 Bel Air with a Toyota diesel boat motor. Right. Exactly...."
The Chevrolet Bel Air is a classic car that many people recognize for its cool design. It's a popular choice for collectors and car enthusiasts who love vintage vehicles.
The Chevrolet Bel Air is a classic American car produced from 1950 to 1981, known for its iconic design and cultural significance. It is often discussed for its classic styling and popularity in car shows and restorations.
Scion Tc
"...ped out my nephew change his oil when he had his Scion TC. And he was like Beeman, you know, he was 19 at t..."
The Scion tC is a small, sporty car that's fun to drive and easy to customize. It's a great choice for younger people looking for an affordable and stylish vehicle.
The Scion tC is a compact coupe that was produced from 2004 to 2016, known for its sporty design and affordability. It is often discussed among younger drivers for its customization potential and fun driving experience.
Porsche 928
"...man as well, coupe, V8, rear wheel drive, Porsche 928. No, it's hard to find those two. Those are on t..."
The Porsche 928 is a stylish sports car that has a powerful engine in the front and drives the back wheels. It's known for being comfortable and fast, making it a unique option among sports cars.
The Porsche 928 is a luxury sports car produced from 1978 to 1995, featuring a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a distinctive coupe design. It is significant for being one of Porsche's first attempts to create a grand touring car, blending performance with comfort.
Mercedes-Benz SL
"...op from the factory. Oh, Mercedes. It's not. Oh, SL. SL. Oh my gosh. R129. And I always lean, because..."
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible sports car that's stylish and powerful. It's known for being a luxurious option for those who enjoy driving with the top down.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster known for its performance and elegant design. It has a long history dating back to the 1950s and is often discussed for its combination of style and power.
MG Mgb
"in front of the Starbucks with wire wheels. MGB. MGB. I'm about to say that. MGB, dude. Dude, yo..."
The MG MGB is a small, classic sports car that people love for its fun driving experience. It's a simple car with a lot of character, making it a favorite among collectors.
The MG MGB is a classic British sports car produced from 1962 to 1980, known for its simple design and enjoyable driving experience. It has become a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and is often discussed for its charm and accessibility.
MG Midgets
"...r was like a thing in the 70s. But yeah, like MG midgets and triumphs. There's a lot of cars in this categ..."
The MG Midget is a tiny sports car that's fun to drive and has a lot of character. It's a classic car that many people love for its simplicity and charm.
The MG Midget is a small, two-seat sports car produced from 1961 to 1979, known for its lightweight design and engaging driving experience. It is often discussed for its classic appeal and accessibility as a vintage sports car.
Porsche 944
"... rear... So front engine, rear transaxle design. 944. There we go, Dylan. That's the car I was going t..."
The Porsche 944 is a sporty car that has its engine in the front and drives the back wheels. It's known for being fun to drive and is often seen as a more affordable Porsche option.
The Porsche 944 is a sports car produced from 1982 to 1991, known for its balanced handling and front-engine, rear transaxle layout. It is often discussed for its affordability compared to other Porsche models and its engaging driving experience.
Mini Cooper Mini
"I could tell he probably just grew out of it. It wasn't that like, like, oh, let me get rid of this like headache. Well, he also bought a, got a Mini Cooper. Mini Cooper, right? So like his sports car now was the Mini Cooper. Now the, the chill car, you know, because you know, like he's part of the"
The Mini Cooper is a tiny car that's known for being cute and fun to drive. It's small enough to zip around town easily, making it a favorite for city driving.
The Mini Cooper is a small car known for its distinctive design and fun driving experience. Originally launched in the 1960s, it has remained popular for its compact size and sporty handling.
BMW M3
"...do everything from Bugatti's to they worked on my M3. So makes sense. Yeah. All right. Last one on th..."
The BMW M3 is a faster and sportier version of the regular BMW 3 Series. It's built for people who love to drive and want a car that feels exciting on the road.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the 3 Series, designed for enthusiasts who seek a sportier driving experience. It is renowned for its powerful engines, precise handling, and motorsport heritage, making it a popular topic among car lovers.
Mercedes-Benz Eclass
"thinking R129 as well. That one too, yeah. I want to do an honorable mention on a 124 E-Class Coupe as well, because I think those are still under $10,000, especially a late one, like a 93. Actually, I think in 89, they got the M104. So when they got an M104,"
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a fancy car that offers a lot of comfort and high-tech features. It's popular for being safe and smooth to drive, making it a great choice for those who want a luxurious ride.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a line of executive cars known for their luxury, advanced technology, and strong performance. It has been a staple in the Mercedes lineup, often discussed for its comfort and safety features.
Volvo 244
"... Go ahead. Volvo turbo brick, super fun. I had a 244, but I would get the wagon just because it's eve..."
The Volvo 244 is a sturdy and reliable car that's known for being safe. It has a classic look and is a good choice for people who want a dependable vehicle.
The Volvo 244 is a compact executive car produced from 1974 to 1993, known for its durability and safety features. It is often discussed for its reputation as a reliable vehicle and its classic boxy design.
Mazda Miata
"...bo? They didn't get the, no, they are turbos. The Miata was in turbo. The Abarth is a 1.6 and then the r..."
The Mazda Miata is a small, two-seat sports car that's really fun to drive. It's light and nimble, making it a favorite among people who enjoy a sporty ride.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight two-seater sports car that has gained a cult following since its introduction in 1989. Known for its fun driving dynamics and affordability, it is often discussed for its engaging driving experience and classic roadster design.
Porsche Boxster
"...ck. Getting it. Getting it. This is the first gen Boxster, right? Yeah. So like what, 98? 99? It started? ..."
The Porsche Boxster is a convertible sports car that you can drive with the top down. It's known for being fun to drive and has a good balance, making it popular among sports car fans.
The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster that has been in production since 1996, known for its balance, handling, and open-top driving experience. It is often discussed for its performance and as an entry point into the Porsche brand.
Porsche 911 GT3
"...e a Boxster look super cool. You can put like the GT3 style front bumper on there, you put it on some ..."
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a super-fast version of the classic 911 sports car, built for people who love racing. It's designed to be lightweight and powerful, making it very exciting to drive.
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance variant of the iconic 911 sports car, designed for track enthusiasts and serious drivers. It features a powerful naturally aspirated engine and a focus on lightweight construction, making it a favorite topic among automotive enthusiasts.
BMW 30 Bmws
"... people here that have, you know, three series E 30 BMWs. But like, when I saw the Mercedes, that's why I..."
The BMW 3.0 CSL is a special version of the BMW 3 Series that's designed for racing and performance. It's lightweight and has a unique look, making it a sought-after classic car.
The BMW 3.0 CSL is a lightweight, high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series produced in the 1970s. Known for its racing pedigree and distinctive styling, it is often discussed as a classic example of BMW's engineering prowess.
Toyota Corolla
"...fe. Yeah, exactly. If you're driving like a 2015 Corolla and you're going to switch it out for a vintage c..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that's very popular because it's reliable and gets good gas mileage. It's a great option for people who need a dependable vehicle for daily use.
The Toyota Corolla is a compact car that has been one of the best-selling cars globally since its introduction in 1966. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, it is often discussed as a great choice for everyday transportation.
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