This week’s AutoHunter Picks are late-model cars. However, I am having a bit of déjà vu within these pages because anything from 1992 is not a late-model vehicle. Sure, many vehicles from back then share all the modernity we expect in new cars (easy starts, horsepower, and computers galore), so why not? If you need GPS, just use your phone. If you need streaming, buy a lighter adapter. If you need a smoke, use the lighter in the ashtray . . . oh, wait—I have it backwards, as people vape these days. Perhaps as backwards as thinking a 1992 car is late-model.
2008 Saleen Mustang S281 Red Flag Edition
I saw a candy apple orange Saleen Mustang roadster the other day, so Saleen is fresh on my mind. All Saleens are special, but some may be more special than others as this is a Red Flag Edition, meaning it’s somewhat of a decontented S281SC, lacking the SC’s vented hood, rear wing, quarter window trim, and using different seats.
Red Flags were only available in Black or Alloy, both with red accents, chrome wheels, and manual transmission. With 465 supercharged horses and 1-of-81 production, this is a neat late-model collectible.
2015 Dodge Challenger R/T
It’s been over 10 years since I’ve driven a manual-transmission Challenger. I thought the SRT was the bee’s knees till I hopped into a Camaro ZL1 but, let’s be honest, the Challenger was much more practical.
It’s easy to overlook versions like the R/T when the Hellcats, etc. get all the glory, but if you are looking for that crossroads between practicality (there’s that word again) and muscle, we have found your car—with a stick, no less. Plus, you can get your inner Kowalski on in the latest flick from AutoHunter, Vanishing Point 2015.
Supercharged 2003 Nissan 350Z Touring
This Z has been upgraded with a Stillen supercharger, headers, cat-back exhaust system, and 18-inch forged aluminum NISMO. It features a Burnt Orange leather interior, nicely contrasting with the Super Black hue.
It also has just 5,300 documented miles. But, to me, what’s most interesting about this Nissan is revealed when glancing at the VIN: it’s number 002 off the line. Neat!
1992 Toyota Soarer GT-T
Sure, it looks like a Lexus to this North American but, to much of the world, it’s a Toyota Soarer, a personal luxury coupe that’s been part of Toyota’s portfolio since 1981. It’s always been based on Supra components, if that sheds some light to those unfamiliar with this model.
If you are thinking, “Why would I want a JDM car that was sold in America? I want something more unique!” then the engine alone should be enough as this Japanese-market Soarer features a twin-turbo 2.5-liter inline-six, something not available from Lexus. Interestingly, the turbos run together instead of sequentially.
