Late Fall Finds '23

Here are the cars and trucks we found during November and December, before most of the New England classics go away for the Winter. 

Above: (11/2/23) - 1984 Chevy Corvette (C4): A Gated Off 'Vette (David)

While on a walk in Providence, I happened upon this pretty mint C4 off of Washington Street. It was found in a gated off parking lot, which likely belonged to an apartment or some office building close by. However, the entrance to the lot wasn't gated off, so I walked in! Unfortunately, the car was parked facing the fence, so I couldn't get the cleanest shot of the front, but it'll do I suppose.

This C4 is in great condition, and is sporting the "Razor" rims, which are one of the most definitive features of the C4. When you picture a C4, I'm sure one of aspects you remember are these rims. Along with the Chevy "Rally" rims from the 1960s and '70s, these are some of Chevy's most iconic wheel designs. In fact, maybe of the '80s too, but I'll have to get back to you guys on that! 

Above: (11/17/23) - 1949 Ford F-1 "Lucie" (David)

It's impossible to talk about the modern American pickup truck without the Ford F-Series. Everything that the pickup truck has come to represent in America, whether symbolically or physically, is here today because of the Ford F-Series, first introduced in 1948. This was the first modern truck ever produced, built specifically to be a truck, and we'll get into why that is later. But to understand this, let's have a look at pre and post war America.

Before World War II, American car design had shifted in the late 1930s from open-top car designs to streamlined, rounded designs, incorporating flush body panels and a more complete appearance. These cars were a huge step forward, especially as America exited the Great Depression and began to focus on the war-effort. In 1942, America was fully involved in the war, and production of civilian vehicles stopped, and auto companies began producing aircraft, tanks, personnel vehicles, and other materials needed for the war. Once the war ended in 1945, they began to resume production of regular civilian cars, except none of the designs were updated, and the same cars seen in 1941 were essentially the same cars in 1946. 

Most vehicles shared platforms among different body styles. For example, a truck rode on the same platform as a sedan. Ford noticed this trend among Chrysler, GM, and themselves, and realized that if they wanted to make their trucks standout from the competition, something radically different would need to happen. So, in 1948, the first F-Series debuted on its own designated platform. Compared the Ford passenger vehicle platform, the truck platform was reinforced with a third crossmember in the frame. The GM and Chrysler trucks did not share this distinction at the time. The F-Series also introduced "Aircraft shocks" which was the first telescopic suspension system used on a truck. 

The Ford trucks also introduced a more accommodating cab, with larger headroom and comfier space, to make for a better driving experience for those who would be driving longer distances or after a long days work on the job, and you just need something comfortable to sit in. 

All of these features would develop and evolve throughout the F-Series' lifetime, and inspire other American trucks to change in the ways of the Ford. These features, especially the comfort oriented ones, would eventually define the current modern American truck as we know it today. In fact, one could argue the first "luxury" truck was the 1970 Ford F-100 Ranger XLT, which emphasized comfort and appearance over utility. When the famed chicken tax loop (we'll touch on this subject soon since it would take too long to discuss for this entry) of the 1970s occurred, it would be the F-100 Rangers and Camper Specials (among others too) that would help define the current pickup truck as we know it, whether that be for better or for worse.  

Above: Ford Close Ups

"Lucie" was spotted on campus as was leaving the library after a good study session and my usual walk around campus to kill time and get exercise between classes. While I'm not sure if it belongs to a student or faculty member, I was certainly surprised, more so amazed, to see it parked by library. 

Lucie sports some serious patina and what looks to be all original parts and paint. I'd love to meet her owner, and talk about the history of this truck, because I'm sure it touts a long one for a truck nearing 75 years old as of 2023.

Above: (11/22/23) - 1992 Volvo 240 Estate (David)

Just when you thought there wouldn't be another 240, it strikes again! At this point, I'm surprising myself with the amount of these I've been finding. Here's a nice black '92 wagon I spotted in Warren, RI while out and about. 

Above: (11/22/23) - 1985 Chevy Corvette (C4) (David)

Oh look! Another C4, I must be on a roll or I've just been noticing these a bit more lately. Anyways, this is another really nice example of an early '80s Corvette. Like the 240 from above, this was also spotted in Warren. Although, story time! A car spotting experience gone bad preceded this.

After photographing the 240, I noticed a maroon 1980s Ford Econoline van parked about a block away from the 240. Intrigued, I walked over to investigate the van. While I was walking over, I noticed an old man walking his dog, who seemed to be preoccupied with the dog, but kept eyeing me. It's not the first time I'd dealt with someone giving me a strange look when car spotting, so I was used to it. 

I was now in front of the van, and giving it a good once over. I pulled out my phone to take a photograph, when I heard the man say "What are you doing?" I thought he was talking to the dog, until he said it again. I turned around, and introduced myself, and mentioned I take pictures of old cars for fun. Then I asked the man if this was his van and if I could take pictures of it. In a harsh tone, he replied, "This is my van, and I do mind [if you do take pictures.] Keep moving."

Taken aback by his rather rude reply, I walked away, not wanting to instigate anything further with the man. Yes, that encounter did put a wrinkle in my day, but I tried not to let it get the best of me. The last time someone got mad at me for photographing their car was with the black '72 Buick found in Mid Winter Finds '23. 

When I found this Corvette, I was extra cautious that no one was watching me, and thankfully, I was able to successfully grab photos of the car. I just wish people were nicer sometimes.

Above: Corvette Close Ups 

This C4 has the other style of Razor Rims, and personally, I think I like these a little better. While the rims on the blue C4 from earlier are certainly more recognizable, I think these have a more retro aesthetic that fit the early C4 Corvettes a little bit better. These have a very early '80s look, while the other style has a very late '80s or early '90s aesthetic. While this is just my opinion, what do you think?

Above: (11/22/23) - 1979 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham (David)

Our final car for today is a 1979 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham. Even though the '70s were over, it didn't necessarily mean it was for Cadillac. Debuting in 1977, the new Cadillac Fleetwood models were downsized from the previous generation, the Fleetwood Sixty Special produced from 1971 to 1976, despite being one of the largest cars on the road throughout its production. 

This is a Fleetwood Brougham, not to be confused with the Cadillac Brougham, which is technically its own model, despite essentially being the same car as the Fleetwood Brougham. The lineage gets a little confusing. In 1985, Cadillac introduced the Fleetwood based on the new C-Body, which had a front wheel drive layout. These cars were smaller than the Broughams and also had modern styling, compared to the outdated styling of the Fleetwood Broughams. In 1987, the Fleetwood Brougham became simply known as the "Brougham," and would remain the largest, luxurious Cadillac available until 1992. The newer Fleetwood would remain in production, succeeding the Brougham as Cadillac's full size luxury model until 1996, being renamed as the Sedan DeVille.

Above: Caddy Close Ups 

Despite its aging appearance, this was one of the coolest Fleetwood Broughams I've seen. I don't think I've ever seen one of these in a two tone finish before, especially one with a blue landau top. Usually, these are finished in a darker color, like a maroon or black, which really made this '79 Caddy a contrast from the norm I've been used to seeing. 

The "Nelson Balmer" badge on the trunk lid refers to a Cadillac Dealer based out of Brooklyn, New York. In my research, Nelson Balmer turned out to be a little more than just your average car dealership. They actually had legal dispute in 1979, when a customer sued them and General Motors after Nelson Balmer refused to return $10,000 worth of repairs to a 1977 Cadillac Seville to a customer. The lawsuit was settled in 1980.

You can view the details of the case here: https://casetext.com/case/galpern-v-general-motors/ 

Above: (11/26/23) - 1995 Plymouth Acclaim (Sam)

It's been a bit since we had some K-car action here at ONEC.  This clean and solid example of an Acclaim sports an old set of blue New Jersey plates.  NJ actually discontinued this style in 1991 and replaced it with the fading yellow plate we know and love today (some of you may not really love it), so the plates were likely transfers from the owner's previous ride.  Who knows, they may have even come off another K-car!  We can only speculate on the matter.  I also want to point out that both rear brake lights are fully functional, as you can see in the rightmost photo.  The car was in the process of turning left when I took the first photo, so I got a shot while the blinker had flashed off.  

Above: (11/27/23) - 1987 Chevy Camaro IROC Z-28 (David)

Alright, here we have the real deal, an actual IROC Camaro. On ONEC, these third generation Camaros are often referred to as the "IROC Camaro" because of the trim level that was offered from 1985 to 1990. Even if the Camaro in question isn't a true IROC, the term IROC became synonymous with the car, and Sam and I simply began calling it that. It's like calling a third generation Mustang a Foxbody Mustang. The platform associated with the car has become synonymous with that specific generation. Anyways, here's a bit of history of the IROC Camaro. 

Introduced in 1985, the IROC trim stood for the International Race Of Champions. It was an option package for the Z-28 Camaros, and actually got you more than just fancy letters on the side of the car. IROC-Z Camaros, as they were officially known, recieved upgraded suspensions, with a lowered ride height, Bilstein shocks, larger sway bars, and the GM "Wonder Bar" steering rack. The IROC-Z package would undergo a few updates during its availability until 1990, with 1987 receiving the largest update. 

In 1987, the IROC package became available with the famed 350 and 305 engines, however, the 350 was only available with an automatic transmission. The 305 with a five speed manual, on the other hand, made 215 horsepower, compared to 190 HP if you got the automatic transmission. Updates in 1987 included a change to the third brake light's location, now mounted inside the rear lip spoiler, instead of awkwardly on top of the roof. 1987 also saw the reintroduction of a convertible top, last seen on a Camaro in 1969! 

This IROC Camaro was spotted on campus on Flagg Road, which runs up and down campus, and is one of the largest roads for upperclassmen housing and parking. It was my first time seeing this on campus, so I'm unsure if it belongs to a student or a visiting parent. Regardless, it was a pleasure to see an actual IROC Camaro, and I hope to meet the owner to learn more about the car.

Above: (11/28/23) - 1996 Honda Civic VTi Hatchback (David)

The 1996 Honda Civic hatch was one of the last Civic hot hatches that America would see until 2015 with the introduction of the tenth generation Civic lineup. This is a sixth generation model, which was produced from 1995 to 2000, and saw the transition from the classic idea of a Honda, to an automaker that tried to look up market following the turn of the century. 

A classic Honda was a reliable car that was cheap, easy to work on, and something you could beat on that wouldn't give you any issues if you did. That was what made Honda an incredibly popular brand, especially during the 1980s and '90s. However, once the 21st Century rolled around, Honda began marketing their cars up market, probably to compete with Toyota to appear more prestigious based on the reputation they had built during the '80s and '90s. 

That meant that in America, the Civic would lose its identity as a tiny car or hatchback, and start to grow in size. The age of the Civic Hot Hatch was gone in the US, and prices of used Civic hatches would rise over the years, especially for clean examples with manual transmissions, because people knew that a Honda Civic hatch was reliable, fuel efficient, had a surplus of parts available, and above all, a fun car to drive due to its light weight and a legendary ability to rev high. 

This is a Honda Civic VTi, arguably one of the quintessential Civics of all time. The VTi designation meant that this car came equipped with the infamous Honda 1.6 liter VTEC engine, a DOHC (Direct Overhead Cam) inline four engine, that while only making between 110 and 120 horsepower, was a very lightweight engine in a very lightweight car. This made the Honda Civic VTi a sleeper and eventually a legend in the streets. The car was extremely lightweight, which meant that its high revving VTEC engine could accelerate from zero to 60 MPH in about seven seconds! If that's not the least bit frightening, I'm not sure what would be. But, that was what made these classic Civics what they're known as today. 

This Honda Civic VTi is the last gasp of breath for the classic Honda Hot Hatch in the US. While Honda would produce a Civic hatch for other markets, we got stuck with the Fit, which many have perceived to be not as great as the Civic Hatch. Now, the Civic Hatch has returned as a larger car, which, despite being offered with a manual transmission, takes away from the fun of the lightweight, light engine speedsters that Honda was putting out in the 1990s. Perhaps the grass is always greener when you look through nostalgia's rose tinted glasses, but I don't know if people knew how good they truly had it back in the late '90s with the last of the classic Honda Civic hatchbacks. 

Above: Civic Synopsis: Not Your Average Civic

At first glance, this looks like just an ordinary Civic Hatch from the '90s, but this is no ordinary Civic. This is a JDM or European import Honda Civic VTi. I'm not sure of which, because I didn't get to meet the owner, but if you are the owner or you know about Hondas, let us know! I too thought this was just a regular Civic, until I happened to glance inside and see the right hand drive interior. That prompted me to photograph it, because I know JDM car enthusiasts would enjoy it. 

Above: (12/8/23) - 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA): Small Car, Big Hill (David)

As the caption states, I found this little red Miata parked on the side of a rather steep hill in Providence, close to the East Side. If you've lived or have read about my various adventures to the East Side of Providence, you'll know that this section of Providence is known for its hills and lots of them.

This Miata is a bit road worn, with some patch work along the rockers and a little dent in the front fender. However, I'm sure it'll keep on driving! This Miata has also been modified a bit. While I don't know what's going on under the hood, the owner had installed a roll cage and some aftermarket rims. If you look closely, the front grille has fangs! 

Above: (12/8/23) - 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa (David)

And now we arrive at yet another iconic sports car, the Porsche 911! If you recall from Late Spring Spotting '23 Part 1, we had a historical look at a similar 911 of the same year. I actually met the owner of that car as well, so definitely check the entry out! 

This is a very similar car, although its finished in a mocha brown, which can be difficult to tell from the sunshine. This Porsche was found at German Motors, a very fitting place to find a German sports car! German Motors is a repair shop on the East Side, specializing in... you guessed it - German cars! In the past, I found a BMW 2002, Mercedes Benz 560 SL, and two VW Golf Mk. I Cabriolets, which can all be found in the same seasonal series, Winter Break Finds 2022-23. 

The Porsche 911 is one of the most iconic and recognizable sports cars of all time. Not only does it define Porsche, but when most people think of a German sports car, the 911 most likely comes to mind among others. Why is this? Perhaps there's a few reasons. For one, like the Volkswagen Beetle, Porsche kept the design relatively unchanged throughout its production, and even today, the design's basic form is very reminiscent of the original 911s from 1964. It's like if the Fender Stratocaster electric guitar were made into an automobile form. The Fender Stratocaster, introduced in 1954, has remained unchanged since its debut almost 70 years ago. If the design works, why change it? 

Above: (12/8/23) - Honda Acty Attack (David)

Hold on, this isn't Porsche or a BMW! This Honda Acty pickup is about as JDM as you can get, so I'm not sure what this was doing at German Motors, but hey, it's Kei truck, so I'm happy I found it! This is the third iteration of the second generation of the Acty, and would be its final form, until a major update with the introduction of the third generation in 1999. 

The second generation Acty series was produced from 1988 to 1999, and saw three major cosmetic updates throughout its tenure. The first form of the Acty was produced from 1988 to 1991, the second from 1992 to 1995, and the third from 1996 to 1999. That would make this example a 1996 or '97, as JDM vehicles younger than 25 years old cannot be imported to the US until they pass the vehicle age restriction. Essentially, it's like not being tall enough to ride a roller coaster. 

Above: (12/11/23) - 1976 Cadillac Coupe DeVille (David)

Here we have another classic '70s Caddy, complete with missing rear trim and a strange amber fog light mounted on the front bumper. This, although it looks incredibly similar to the blue Fleetwood Brougham from earlier, is a fourth generation Coupe DeVille, and one of the last of the classic, oversized DeVilles before the "downsizing" began in 1977. 

The fourth generation of the Cadillac DeVille entered production in 1971, after all full size GM cars received a major remodeling following 1970. The cars got substantially larger and wider, and the DeVille was probably the most exaggerated out of all of the full size cars. Everything on the new DeVille was w-i-d-e, with an overall width of 79.8 inches. The headlights were spaced apart with emblems in between, the grille spread across the majority of the front fascia, and the doors were so large, they had two door handles, so one could be used to open it via the rear seat. But that's not all, with a wheelbase of 130.2 inches, the length of the 1971 DeVille was 227.4 inches, which, by the conclusion of the fourth generation lineup, would reach 230.7 inches in 1976. So, to say that these cars were boats would be an understatement in and of itself.

Above: DeVille Close Ups

Despite its rather current decrepit state, this Cadillac was the pinnacle of American luxury back in its heyday. This shouldn't be that much of a surprise, as American luxury in terms of vehicles was measured by comfort and style over efficiency and power.

Above: (12/11/23) - 1970 Chevy C-10 (David)

Now here's something Americana from the '70s I can't criticize, the father of the Squarebody itself, the second generation Chevy C-10 truck, complete with a 396 big block V8! This is a 1970 Chevy C-10, which can be distinguished from the 1969 model due to the lack of the eggcrate grille pattern behind the chrome trim which covers it. 1970 was also the final year the 396 big block engine was offered in the C/K lineup, which this truck has, making it a fairly rare option!

Produced from 1967 to 1972, the second generation, officially known as the "Action Line" of trucks, were a refresh compared to the first generation of the C/K series. The new design was more refined, with smoother body panels, and a more squared off appearance, no pun intended. The new trucks also featured rear coil springs instead of leaf springs, which was fairly advanced for its time. 

Aside from changes to the front grille, and a few trim level changes, these trucks remained largely unchanged during their six year production run. Like the Porsche from earlier, there was no real need to change the truck's design, because it proved to be a huge success for Chevy and its GMC counterparts. Over 3 million units were sold between 1967 and 1972, with 2.5 million of the sales accounting for Chevy.  The design was practical for work use, and its cab and bed layout allowed it to be converted for different applications. Most were sold with the Chevy 350 small block, which continues to be one of the most durable engines ever made. On top of that the MSRP for a new base model C-10 in 1970 was roughly $2800, which adjusted for inflation in 2023, is about $22,047, making it a pretty affordable truck for its time. Comparatively, a base Ford F-100 from the same year cost around $3190. 

Although the second generation trucks often get overshadowed by their successor, the legendary Squarebody, the Squarebody wouldn't be the truck we know and love if it wasn't for the success of the Action Line Chevy trucks. 

Above: The C-10: Front and Rear

This C-10 is slightly modified, with a matte black paint job, that looks like DIY job, and some homemade white walls paired with a nice set of American Racing "Outlaw" rims. I personally think it gives the truck a classic hot rod appearance. It has the right amount of minimal cosmetic DIY modifications that don't exaggerate or ruin the truck's overall aesthetic. However, I don't know if I would've used the more uncommon 396 big block example, and I bet Sam would back me up on this! 

At the time of this photograph, the truck was for sale, and the owner was asking $5000 firm, if I remember correctly. Honestly, for a truck of this vintage and presumably with the original drive train (if that 396 badge is still accurate) this is quite a good deal, especially these days. While it isn't completely original, a classic Chevy truck makes for a great reliable work truck, and potentially a great show car hauler for your classic. Maybe you could restore this to its original paint! There's so many possibilities with these trucks, which is part of what makes them great. So, if anyone is looking for a classic Chevy truck for a good price, check this C-10 out! It's located in Warwick, RI off of Post Rd. 

Above: (12/11/23) - 1993 Volvo 240 Classic 5MT: The Last of the 240s (David)

1993 marked the final year for the Volvo 240, which marked almost 20 years of production, with over 2.8 million models produced. The 240's story was a story of survival and beating the odds, so by the time production was over, the boxy car had proven itself to be so popular, that it outlived its intended successor and even into the present day, is still desired as a daily driver for many, including myself. 

In 1993 to commemorate the end of production of one of their best cars, Volvo decided to release 1600 examples of the 240 in North America, which all would be the last 240s sold in the North American market. These were known as the 240 "Classic" and received several distinct features to set them apart from the standard 240s. 

Outside, the 240 Classic received a special badge below the "240" on the rear trunk lid, or liftgate for this example (see the below photo), and color matched trim around the headlamps and grille. Two color options were also available, a dark metallic red or dark metallic green. Most 240 Classics also came stock with basket weave style rims. This particular car doesn't have a few of the qualities mentioned, but we'll get into why that may be later. Inside, the Classic was a bit more upscaled. Faux wood trim replaced the black plastic trim around the dashboard and center consul, and a special marque noting what production number your specific car was out of the 1600 produced was mounted next to the radio. For example, it would read No. 502/1600.

The 240 Classic would serve be the 240's official final form for many in the US and around the world. In Europe, the 240 Classic existed for the entirety of the 1993 model year, and received most of the same distinctions as the North American Classics. In Japan, the 240 Classic was known as the "Tack," receiving a bit more of a wholesome send off, as "Tack" is the Swedish pronunciation of "Thank you." 

However, the 240's spirit transcended the end of its production, and found its way into the hearts of Volvo loyalists, inspiring them to keep their 240s on the road, which is why you still see them today. In fact, it's probably why I keep photographing them. It inspired hot rodders to LS swap their 240s and turn them into street racing sleepers. It even inspired a whole new generation of Swedish car enthusiasts, being the perfect beginner's introduction to classic car ownership. So I suppose it is true, you really can't kill an old Volvo.

Above: A Closer Look at the 240 Classic

I spotted this 240 right near my house, in the local town square. Previously, I'd spotted a '73 Porsche 914 and a '67 Dodge Dart in this area before, so sometimes, I get lucky and find a cool classic. Obviously, this Volvo was no exception. 

This old Volvo has clearly been around the block more than once. Although its odometer read around 127,000 at the date of this entry, I have a strong suspicion that it stopped working a while ago. A broken odometer is pretty common to see on a 240, and most cars of this era that have an analog odometer. My 240's odometer still worked, which was one, impressive, and two, only at 272,550 miles by the time I sold it, and that car was in the same physical condition as this one. I also saw it recently, so check out the latest Volvo Journal entry after you're done here! 

Other evidence to cite for this vehicle's suspected inaccurate mileage includes stating the obvious - cosmetics. This car had several missing interior pieces, the typical missing bumper trim (see the above front fascia photo), and the ubiquitous yellowed headlight lenses the 240 is known for. The grille on this car has been replaced, as 240 Classic models received a grille with color matching trim, instead of the grille seen here with the chrome trim. I hypothesize this car was probably involved in a minor collision, given the slight sloping of the front bumper and dent in the hood. If this was the only damage this 240 received, I don't want to know what the other car looked like!

Above: (12/11/23) - 1991 Mercury Grand Marquis GS (David)

And our last find of the day is none other than one of the last traditional American sedan. This is of course the Mercury Grand Marquis, built on the legendary Ford Panther Platform. The Grand Marquis would serve as Mercury's flagship model from 1975 until Mercury's death as an auto brand in 2011. 

The Grand Marquis originally entered production as a step above the standard Marquis in 1975. It was sold alongside the Ford LTD in Ford's full size model line up. For an example of a late '70s Marquis, see Mid Winter Finds '23 f0r a 1978 Marquis Brougham. In 1979, Ford downsized their full-size model line up, which included the Ford LTD (later renamed the LTD Crown Victoria), Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Continental. These three cars would all be constructed on the brand new Panther Platform, from 1979 all the way to 2012. 

With the downsizing and switch to a new platform, this brought a change to the Mercury line up as well. The Grand Marquis became its a standalone model for the first time. The new Grand Marquis would still be a large car, but significantly shorter than the previous model, shaving off 17 inches off the what was once a 229 inch long car. The new Mercury was also nearly identical to its Ford counterpart, sharing almost the same parts, with the exception of the front and rear fascia. This was probably inspired by Lee Iacocca's successful approach to the K-Car, sharing parts across platforms and different brands to cut costs. After all, if it worked for Chrysler, it probably would work for Ford, and it sure did. Like the K-Cars, the Panther Platform was able to be adapted and modified to fit different design specifications or uses, whether it be for fleet use or the slightly larger Lincoln Town Car. 

The first generation Panther Platform Mercurys, Fords, and Lincolns would be phased out for the second generation in 1991, which makes this Grand Marquis pictured here one of the last of the first generation models. 

Above: The Marquis in Perspective

1991 marked the last of the classic boxy styling of the Panther Platform cars before the smoother lines of the 1990s new styling would replace it in 1992. GM had updated their B-Body equivalents, the Chevy Caprice and Buick Roadmaster, a year prior in 1991, so Ford had to keep up with the trend. Although the Panther Platform cars would be the true last American sedans built in the traditional standard of a rear wheel drive, body-on-frame vehicle, these first generation models would be the last of the classic styling seen for nearly three decades, from the late '60s to the early '90s. 

This Grand Marquis appears to be a local car as well, with a dealer badge noting it was sold at Tasca Ford. Tasca is one of the oldest and best known Ford product dealers in New England, and is also known for their brief success in drag racing in the early '60s. 

Above: (12/15/23) - 1989 Mercedes Benz 420 SEL (W126): Classic Cars and Classic Architecture (David)

It doesn't get any better than spotting an old car in the city, especially in front of an historic building! This W126 S-Class was spotted in front of the iconic Turk's Head Building in Downtown, Providence. 

The building is famously known for the stone carving of a turban wrapped head on the face of the building overlooking the entrance. The building also features a distinct rounded V-shape, similar to the Flat Iron building in New York City. It perfectly fits at the intersection of Westminster and Weybosett Street. At the time of its completion in 1913, it was the tallest building in Providence, before it was superseded by the Biltmore Hotel in 1922, which was replaced by the Industrial National Bank building, also known as the "Superman" building, in 1928. Anyways, back to the car.

We're back again with another clean S-Class, the last one spotted back in July, which you can read about in Early Summer '23. I also outline a brief history of the W126 cars in that entry too, so check that out if you want to learn more. For this entry, I think I'm going to approach it from a step back, and let the car and its setting do the talking for us. Sometimes, the setting and the car is just right. 

Above: (12/19/23) - 1952 DeSoto Custom Coupe (David)

Happy Holidays everyone! This DeSoto is the last of the cars we found prior to Christmas, and I think it's a perfect early gift for any car enthusiast. Well, unless you really hate '50s American cars, what's not to love about this historic piece of Americana? 

The DeSoto Custom was part of the DeSoto S-10 Series, not to be confused with the Chevy S-10 of the 1990s. The S-10 series was introduced in 1942, right before American automakers halted production of passenger vehicles to aid in producing military vehicles and airplanes during World War II. Production resumed in 1946, lasting until 1952, making this example one of the last in the line. While 1946 to 1948 models used the pre-war Chrysler designs and platforms, an entire redesign was put into effect in 1949, letting the DeSoto and other Chrysler products shake their pre-war looks. It was succeeded by the DeSoto Firedome the following year.

There were two options during the S-10's lifetime: The DeLuxe and the Custom. The DeLuxe was the entry level car, differing from the Custom cosmetically with less trim and an optional radio. On the other hand, the Custom was more upscaled, and was marketed as the luxurious option of the two. Notably, the first ever DeSoto offered in a Coupe or Wagon bodystyle were made available in the Custom lineup only for the 1950 model year and onwards.