Sleeper cars

[Fergie]

Title pretty much says it. I'm wanting to build/buy a sleeper vehicle, and am wondering what others have had, or think of as sleepers.

I'm looking toward the higher end of the spectrum as far as quality goes(volvo, audi, bmw...), not some Aerostar with a V8 wedged in it.

Any ideas, or directions would be appreciated.

Fergie

PS- Tihs would be for longer road trips, weekend DD around town, and to have fun on the twistys.

[steelmen]

what the hell is a sleeper?

something you can sleep in?

[Gil BullyKatz]

what the hell is a sleeper?

something you can sleep in?


No...

it's the same thing as a Q-car.


I've seen a 500hp twin turbo Saab 900...

no badging...

no extra bodywork...

the only giveaway is the dissapearing tailights and a distinct whoooooooooooooooooosh sound...

[Muddy89XJ]

early 90's eclipse gsx's

AWD Turbo, get a boost controller and turn up the boost..

[87manche]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Impala#1994-1996
looks like a boxy old mans car.
had an lt1 and lots of police goodies.

[Fergie]

To help narrow ideas down, I'm thinking a mid to higher end Euro sedan or wagon.

[XJrambler]

...

[bigazxj]

i think the volvo 240 with a sbc in it is cool as hell thats what i would do
someone makes a bolt it motor mount crossmember and trans crossmember
and you can pick a 240 up cheap.. way cheap

justin

[91Woody]

Audi S Series- very little to distinguish them from the run of the mill Audi, but they will run to the redline REAL quick. Check out the S6 if you have the cash- V10 power direct injected.
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FirstDrives/articleId=109940

[casm]

If you want something really obscure but with the potential for going like the proverbial bat out of hell, I'd suggest the 1970's Mercury Capri (http://www.mercurycapri.com/showroom/article.php?class=one&article=21).

The specs probably don't look all that interesting at first glance and I might be a bit biased seeing as how an '82 was my first car... But check out what Perana (http://www.capri-perana.co.za/) was doing with these things in South Africa. Total Q-car if you do it the right way.

[Fergie]

If you want something really obscure but with the potential for going like the proverbial bat out of hell, I'd suggest the 1970's Mercury Capri (http://www.mercurycapri.com/showroom/article.php?class=one&article=21).

The specs probably don't look all that interesting at first glance and I might be a bit biased seeing as how an '82 was my first car... But check out what Perana (http://www.capri-perana.co.za/) was doing with these things in South Africa. Total Q-car if you do it the right way.
Very cool...but I'd like something a bit more modern.

I do like the idea of the SBC 240, there was a link in another thread...

[XJrambler]

Very cool...but I'd like something a bit more modern.

I do like the idea of the SBC 240, there was a link in another thread...

http://videos.streetfire.net/video/9cd6869c-6501-4b46-b004-9884012931f3.htm

[CanMan]

I plan to build a short bed, early 90's S10 for a sleeper in the future. Stock height, stock style wheels, stock paint, no frills interior. 406 SBC, Aluminum heads, Forged Eagle internals, SRP pistons, healthy cam, Holley 850, with a 200 shot of NOS, 4L80 auto, car 12 bolt rear. Now the trick is, use headers of course, but keep the exhaust very quiet, but still with good flowing mufflers for the street. Ill do electric exhaust cutouts, for suprises. :) No one would suspect unless they look it over real good.

Another one Ive always wanted to do is a Dodge Caravan, mid 80's, swap in a turbo'd 4G63 somehow, and smoke lots of people. Probably will never do it, but always thought it would be cool.

Lastly, some company makes V8 conversions for the AWD Astro vans. With a 4L80E, a TC from a Yukon Denali(for the AWD), and a independent 3/4 ton front(D60 gear set, IIRC), and narrowed Ford 9" rear, that thing would launch like no other.





But this would be my ultimate build. This 240 is freakin badass!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIL6C25Vfrc&mode=related&search=

Another vid of it VS. a R1.

http://www.tv.com/uservideos/?action=video_player&id=InU3kWD-5bgEvz7b

[xrayjeeper83]

I had a volvo 242 turbo w/ a manual that was a fun car. One day I will buy another one and drop a small block in it

Andrew

[hadfield4wd]

I have an A4 with the 2.8. I would love to do a pes-tuning supercharger. However if I was doing it over again I'd get the 1.8T and mod that. cheaper to get more HP. Take off all the badges and lower it 2". Or just get a S4. A friend of mine just sold his 2000 for $14,500. It was wicked fast and tons of aftermarket parts to make it faster.

[JoesXJ]

2003 or newer Volvo S60R, thats where I would start. I have a S60 2.5T and love it, very comfortable and fun to drive with the autostick...an AWD, high turbo 300 HP, 4 door with a 6 speed manual would be a kick ass car to drive stock and a good place to start for more modifications if you wanted.

http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop-580x435/s60r04_4w.jpg

[SeanP]

sleeper is the newer legacy GT wagons and the Outback wagons (i have one).

same long block as WRX STI. Many have broken into the 12's with about $3K of mods. Some are putting down 400WHP+. They are "holy crap" fast and AWD guarantees traction.

the legacy GT sedan looks a lot like the last body style camry. Debadge it and most wouldn't know the difference.

like that volvo too.

also, depending on your money, the E55 AMG benzo puts out 496 HP

[8Mud]

To be a true sleeper, it has to look like anythig but fast. It's supposed to be a surprise. The first tip off is the tail lights disappearing into the distance.
I had a lot of fun with a Dodge shortbed truck in the early eighties here in Germany. Back in those days, the typical German pickup (kind of) was a four banger diesel with like 60-70 HP. If they ever mad eit to the fast lane the Mercedes drivers would harass them with blinking headlights and horns blaring.
My truck was painted the same color as the interstate service vehicles are here. Looked like a rest stop trash truck. The only real tipoff was the whistle from the blower and the wide tires. I could burn the Mercedes of that period by about 7-8 MPH top end and get there a whole lot faster.
I think the sleeper that impressed me the most was full size four door Chev. it was quiet, kind of a dark grey metallic, had slightly oversized Michelens on it and left me sitting at a stop light, without squeeling a tire or making any huffing and puffing noises and just disappeared into the distance. The part that impressed me the most was, I was sitting on a 120 horsepower motorcycle and was throttle down trying hard to keep the front tire on the ground at the time.
My favorite was an early sixties, Valiant station wagon, flat and peeling red paint, four door, with a built Hemi, load flite manual shift auto tranny and a 4.88 Dana rear (full floating axles :) ). A conservative estimate of 400 HP, which wasn't the whole story, the torque that sucker produced was awesome. The body would flex and the tail gate would pop open. 10.50/16 Town and Country snow treads, aired down to about 15 PSI (they actually lauched really well). The tires would regularly disintigrate, but they were a large part of the fun. Tire chunks pelting the poor sap behind me. Had a sign on the door (hand painted) that said "Need your pipes cleaned" call Chuck.
It has too look anything but quick, with a large surprise factor, to be any fun.

[89Daytona]

Any Volvo is good for making a sleeper out of it.

A K-car wagon (Dodge/plymouth Aries) is really good for a sleeper, nobody expects much from them. All you have to do is swap the stock cylinder head for a DOHC head from a neon and then add a turbo, and you'll have enough power to blow up the transmission a hundred times over.

[LilRhodyXJ]

I say go the Volvo route but don't go 240...850T

check this one out! I love this vid
http://thumbs.vidiac.com/9463951e-9eac-4ebf-8b92-c76d0a494fef.jpg (http://videos.streetfire.net/video/9463951e-9eac-4ebf-8b92-c76d0a494fef.htm)Click here to see Video (http://videos.streetfire.net/video/9463951e-9eac-4ebf-8b92-c76d0a494fef.htm)

also, I found this video a while back and I thought it be a really cool sleeper even for a Jeep owner...all I have to say is sorry 5.9 GC and sorry 6.1 Hemi GC this WJs got ya...http://thumbs.vidiac.com/58bf0b65-e3ef-4e50-99f8-b1bfbddfd27c.jpg (http://208.101.10.250/~naxjaor1/forum/%5Burl=http://videos.streetfire.net/video/58bf0b65-e3ef-4e50-99f8-b1bfbddfd27c.htm%5D%5Bimg%5Dhttp://thumbs.vidiac.com/58bf0b65-e3ef-4e50-99f8-b1bfbddfd27c.jpg%5B/img%5D%5B/url%5D%5Burl=http://videos.streetfire.net/video/58bf0b65-e3ef-4e50-99f8-b1bfbddfd27c.htm%5DClick%20here%20to%20see%20Video %5B/url%5D)Click here to see Video (http://videos.streetfire.net/video/58bf0b65-e3ef-4e50-99f8-b1bfbddfd27c.htm)

[Matthew Currie]

One of the better sleeper cars of a generation or so ago was a VW bus. The trick was to take the guts from something like a Chevy pickup or a Malibu or the like, mount the engine and tranny midships, and the solid axle in place of the VW's transaxle, with a stubby driveshaft to run it all. Pretty much a drop-in drivetrain. I was told the rig would actually handle fairly well owing to the midships engine. Do it with a pop-top Campmobile and you have a real sleeper. The only hot rod on the block with running water and screens on the windows.

[Fergie]

I like all the different ideas, but keep coming back to the turbo Volvos, and the Audis, either A4 or S4.

The SBC volvo is cool and all, but I prefer the Euro engine sound compared to the SBC sound...just not my thing.

Vids are freakin cool too.

[casm]

sleeper is the newer legacy GT wagons and the Outback wagons (i have one).

I'll second this. My mother's getting an Outback wagon with the flat-six, and that thing moves. Not as much in the way of performance options for the 6-cylinders as the 2.5 turbo (which is faster still), but the turbos have a wealth of upgrades for them. Handling's incredible.

the legacy GT sedan looks a lot like the last body style camry. Debadge it and most wouldn't know the difference.

Yup. And an Outback wagon in black is a total stealth car - cops just don't see it going 85mph-plus.

[DaJudge]

M3 or M5 BMW. I friend of mine has a couple year old M3 and it is probably the best driving car I have ever driven. Very fast and very smooth on the road. I was amazed that a car that handles that well and was that fast could ride so quiet and smooth on the interstate.

Glen

[Root Moose]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Impala#1994-1996
looks like a boxy old mans car.
had an lt1 and lots of police goodies.
Just to flesh out a little, the Roadmaster and Fleetwood also got the Corvette LT1 in 1994-1996.

There is a really nicely built Roadmaster on cardomain.

[Root Moose]

If you want something really obscure but with the potential for going like the proverbial bat out of hell, I'd suggest the 1970's Mercury Capri (http://www.mercurycapri.com/showroom/article.php?class=one&article=21).

The specs probably don't look all that interesting at first glance and I might be a bit biased seeing as how an '82 was my first car... But check out what Perana (http://www.capri-perana.co.za/) was doing with these things in South Africa. Total Q-car if you do it the right way.
1980s North American Capri RS (Mustang Fox chassis) is also "rare" and goes well. 351C is a no brainer. ;)

A friend had a `74 Capri (German Ford). 2.8 V6, 4 speed, Holley carb, Crane cam, Monza/Hooker headers and exhaust, etc. Car went like a bat out of hell and was a blast on the secondary roads.

[Root Moose]

Lastly, some company makes V8 conversions for the AWD Astro vans. With a 4L80E, a TC from a Yukon Denali(for the AWD), and a independent 3/4 ton front(D60 gear set, IIRC), and narrowed Ford 9" rear, that thing would launch like no other.

http://www.jagsthatrun.com/Pages/AstroVan_V-8.html

Supposedly the AWD Astro and the B-body station Wagon Caprices, etc. share the same front sub frame.

I'd like to take a tape measure to both to see how likely a AWD 9C1 Caprice would be as a build idea. ;)

[bjoehandley]

I dig the Volvo and Saab ideas, but I'd do things a little different.

A Briarwood or Wagoneer XJ with either a stroked 4.0l or V-8 swap, cop springs and Limited swaybars.

Anything K-Car with a strong 2.2/2.5 motor (I've even heard of 2.0/2.4 Neon/Cloud Car/minivan/PT head can fit with minimal work!)

F/S van with a large motor swapped in (stroked small block at the bare minimum, preferably an aluminum BB if available)

But these are just me:shrug:

[zfinger]

My friend had a 98 Buick Regal GS, Supercharged 3.8 stock. That car got up and went for a leather sofa with 4 doors.

Or a Saab with the Vigen package.

But my next project after my 240sx is done... A midto late 90's Subaru Impreza wagon (the really ugly one) with an STI swap.

[ebxjbob]

Yeah I was going to say the buick regal GS does 0-60 in 6.9 sec from the factory 3800 series II supercharged, it could easily be built up,

My mom drives an oldsmobile intrigue with the 3.5 twin cam V6

I've blown some ricers off with it and the tranny has 1/2/3/D positions so I drive it like a stick, its got a warr. until 100,000, at which point I warned my dad he better get rid of it

I like the Volvo wagons too, 850 R's are cool but there FWD, a 740 wagon would be a step between the 240 and 850 and its rear wheel drive

check out this http://turbobricks.com/

and that http://www.eurosporttuning.ca/

[Rob Mayercik]

Anything K-Car with a strong 2.2/2.5 motor (I've even heard of 2.0/2.4 Neon/Cloud Car/minivan/PT head can fit with minimal work!)

I read a web page recently about a 10-second K-car (with 2.2).

How about something like the twin-turbo 2.5l Dodge Caravan I recall from not too long ago?

Alternately - go hunt down an Omni GLH/GHLT, or if you can find one someone's willing to part with, one of the 500 '86 GLHS (S for Shelby) models. 0-60 in 6.5 sound good?

Of course, early-mid 80s may be older than you want to go...

Rob

[Darky]

I like the Subaru Legacy GT. I think they just came out with a limited edition Spec B version as well. Also the CHevy Malibu Maxx SS is pretty quick. Not quite what you're looking for, but I'd recommend a test drive in one, you can even get an optional rear seat DVD entertainment system.

[BBeach]

early 90's eclipse gsx's

AWD Turbo, get a boost controller and turn up the boost..
Anybody who's into racing should know dsm's can pack a punch. Sure they usually look like a piece of crap but the average car nut knows what up.

[IXNAYXJ]

Title pretty much says it. I'm wanting to build/buy a sleeper vehicle, and am wondering what others have had, or think of as sleepers.

I'm looking toward the higher end of the spectrum as far as quality goes(volvo, audi, bmw...), not some Aerostar with a V8 wedged in it.

Any ideas, or directions would be appreciated.

Fergie

PS- Tihs would be for longer road trips, weekend DD around town, and to have fun on the twistys.Do you have a preference between a stick or automatic?

BTW, I was the one who posted the link to the Converse Volvo (http://www.converseengineering.com/) site.

Here's my last sleeper:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/1148680363.jpg

380 RWHP in 2300 lbs. :D

-----Matt-----

[Fergie]

Do you have a preference between a stick or automatic?

BTW, I was the one who posted the link to the Converse Volvo (http://www.converseengineering.com/) site.

Here's my last sleeper:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/1148680363.jpg

380 RWHP in 2300 lbs. :D

-----Matt-----

No preference really, looking for strength and reliability over stick or auto.

The Miata was nice, but looking for something that will haul 4 people comfortably.

Fergie

[Kittrell]

You know me Gavin, get the Audi. My dream sleeper, B5 Era '97-'02. Gets you the 2.7 L TT, stock is about 250hp. "By replacing the KKK K03 turbos with the slightly larger B5 RS4's K04 turbos, as well as other air/fuel delivery components, aftermarket and home tuners can easily increase power towards the 450 hp range using off-the shelf kits and parts."

http://www.personal.psu.edu/users/j/t/jtw169/Audi%20S4.jpg

[IXNAYXJ]

No preference really, looking for strength and reliability over stick or auto.

The Miata was nice, but looking for something that will haul 4 people comfortably.

FergieHere's my real suggestion:

'91-'93 BMW E34 M5. 3.6 liter I-6 putting out 310 hp and as reliable as a Jeep 4.0. Classic good looks, and de-badged is hard to tell apart from a regular 530i. Lots of aftermarket support, primarily through Dinan.

A friend of mine has one stroked to 3.8 and full Dinan Stage 3 suspension. Absolutely amazing car, and still running hard after 220k miles.

http://cerclem.free.fr/images/registre/m5/m5%20racing2.jpg

http://www.e34s.de/Bilder/am2004/Saturday/DSC_1374.JPG

A set of late model BMW wheels goes a long way to updating the look of the car. You can find nice examples for the mid-teens, and for that kind of money, I don't know how you can beat the speed, reliability and style. Go watch the last chase scene of Ronin and you'll be convinced. :D

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

Oh, FYI, the B5 S4 debut in the US in '00. So you are only looking at 3 years that car was made here. Not really hard to come by though.

Just another one of my favorites.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Jeep1991/S4.jpg

[Matthew Currie]

A few years ago I almost bought another sleeper vehicle. It was a GMC, whatever the GMC version of the Astro was, too lazy to look it up. But this one had a 5-speed stick shift and a 4.2 engine, and it was frighteningly quick. Unfortunately the handling and just about everything else about it was terrible, but I was tempted, just for the "Q" factor. If I hadn't had to think about handling in snow, I'd have gone for it. The vehicle I ended up with instead was my first (87) XJ, though, so I'm not sorry.

[IXNAYXJ]

A few years ago I almost bought another sleeper vehicle. It was a GMC, whatever the GMC version of the Astro was, too lazy to look it up. But this one had a 5-speed stick shift and a 4.2 engine, and it was frighteningly quick. Unfortunately the handling and just about everything else about it was terrible, but I was tempted, just for the "Q" factor. If I hadn't had to think about handling in snow, I'd have gone for it. The vehicle I ended up with instead was my first (87) XJ, though, so I'm not sorry.GMC Safari, and it was likely a 4.3 liter. I had no idea they built a 5-speed version, though. :dunno:

-----Matt-----

[xrayjeeper83]

My dads got a buddy with a caprice wagon with the LT-1 the had put a 5 speed in it and a turbo and will blow the doors off just about anything. Also he kept the wood side panels. Hes also got a late 90's impala SS that has had a TON of work

Andrew

[Fergie]

Here's my real suggestion:

'91-'93 BMW E34 M5. 3.6 liter I-6 putting out 310 hp and as reliable as a Jeep 4.0. Classic good looks, and de-badged is hard to tell apart from a regular 530i. Lots of aftermarket support, primarily through Dinan.

A friend of mine has one stroked to 3.8 and full Dinan Stage 3 suspension. Absolutely amazing car, and still running hard after 220k miles.

http://cerclem.free.fr/images/registre/m5/m5%20racing2.jpg

http://www.e34s.de/Bilder/am2004/Saturday/DSC_1374.JPG

A set of late model BMW wheels goes a long way to updating the look of the car. You can find nice examples for the mid-teens, and for that kind of money, I don't know how you can beat the speed, reliability and style. Go watch the last chase scene of Ronin and you'll be convinced. :D

-----Matt-----
Hmmm...what are the main diffs between a 5 and an M5....frame, engine and the sorts?

Better yet, point towards a forum and I will search.

I like the idea.

Fergie

[RichP]

I had one of these back in the day, phase IV, 450hp 350.... it was a 73 though.
http://www.v8monza.com/album/vega.htm
They did a really nice job of widening the inside wheel wells to fit the 60 series mickey thompson slicks under there... pulling wheelies at traffic lights though ruined it's 'sleeper' image.....not to mention the $50 tickets.

[Matthew Currie]

GMC Safari, and it was likely a 4.3 liter. I had no idea they built a 5-speed version, though. :dunno:

-----Matt-----

Yeah, 4.3. I knew it was 4 point something. The 5 speed was certainly unusual, and not really very well suited to the layout of the cabin, either.

[NHscrambler]

I had a regular cab, short bed, V8 Dodge Dakota. Dusted a lot of sports cars with that thing.

One of the biggest sleepers I can think of is the late 80's early 90's Dodge Spirit turbo. I knew a guy that had one. Looked like something your grandma would drive but pulled high 12 second quarter miles.

[Kittrell]

I had a regular cab, short bed, V8 Dodge Dakota. Dusted a lot of sports cars with that thing.

One of the biggest sleepers I can think of is the late 80's early 90's Dodge Spirit turbo. I knew a guy that had one. Looked like something your grandma would drive but pulled high 12 second quarter miles.

Thats the R/T, pretty hard to come by.

[Fergie]

Maybe a Passat, debadged and turboed.

[Kittrell]

Maybe a Passat, debadged and turboed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Jeep1991/Smilies/whax.gif

[Fergie]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Jeep1991/Smilies/whax.gif
Same as your S4!

:gee:

[Kittrell]

Same as your S4!

:gee:

They might share alot of the same parts, but a VW of any kind is no where near the same class as an S4. And you know that.

[IXNAYXJ]

Hmmm...what are the main diffs between a 5 and an M5....frame, engine and the sorts?

Better yet, point towards a forum and I will search.

I like the idea.

FergieAs to the difference b/w a M5 and a 5 series: M5s are hand built on a seperate production line. Same frame, but everything else is bespoke and hand-built.

There is a HUGE M5 resource, M5board.com that is very similar to NAXJA. Great site for info, tips, ideas about tuning and repair. Seriously, check it out. Look for the "E34" section which deals with this generation of car.

I'm actually in the market for one these myself as a daily driver when it's too nasty to take my M3 convertible out. You can't got wrong.

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

If I can't convince you to get the Audi, I'd not be disappointed to see you in a Bimmer instead.

[Krazors001]

Here's my real suggestion:

'91-'93 BMW E34 M5. 3.6 liter I-6 putting out 310 hp and as reliable as a Jeep 4.0. Classic good looks, and de-badged is hard to tell apart from a regular 530i. Lots of aftermarket support, primarily through Dinan.

A friend of mine has one stroked to 3.8 and full Dinan Stage 3 suspension. Absolutely amazing car, and still running hard after 220k miles.

http://cerclem.free.fr/images/registre/m5/m5%20racing2.jpg

http://www.e34s.de/Bilder/am2004/Saturday/DSC_1374.JPG

A set of late model BMW wheels goes a long way to updating the look of the car. You can find nice examples for the mid-teens, and for that kind of money, I don't know how you can beat the speed, reliability and style. Go watch the last chase scene of Ronin and you'll be convinced. :D

-----Matt-----

Love this car. My uncle went from his E28 535i to one of these and love love loves it. He also drives a '00 Subary Legacy GT as his daily driver. A few friends of mine drive have 00-02 A4/S4's. It's amazing the kind of power you can get out of these and AWD is nice.

[RalphXJ]

GMC Typhoon

http://www.sportmachines.com/magrack/images/car_craft_10-91_4.jpg

Or

GMC Syclone
http://brian.grar.com/images/SyclonePix/GMC91Syclone07.jpg

All Wheel Drive, 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds and could do a quarter-mile run in 14.1 seconds at 95 mph stock!!

[\\'anderer]

For a real fast Q-car a de-baged Audi RS-6 is unbeatable. Do not dismiss this car without driving one first(if you can find one). They are no longer imported.. AWD twin turbo 450hp 415ftlbs torque 4 door family car or wagon.

A modified Audi S series could do on a pinch with some mods.


To have a real Q car you need some serious power, I haven't worked on euro cars in a while, but it seems you have limited choices unless you can import some a vehicle or some engine parts.
My friends Hartge BMW 5 series, 4 door was plain and extremely fast easily beating out SBC power, heck even my rabbit cup VW rabbit could do that (this was before most honda tuners were even born)

[ridinhigh07]

they dont call DSMs Daily Service Mandatory for nothing

[Fergie]

If I can't convince you to get the Audi, I'd not be disappointed to see you in a Bimmer instead.
Well,Tiff likes the M5 and the Audi, so we shall see.

Both are good ideas, just need to start researching.

[goodburbon]

I had the non turbo volvo 850.

all in all a fun car to drive, and I loved the way that 5cyl roared. The downsides:

Torquesteer
$75 dist cap and rotor set
pre- OBD
Transmission synchro broke, no parts available, I had to get a new tranny.
You will have trouble convincing the parts monkey that you need 5 spark plugs.
replacing plug wires is a bitch.
you need ramps to change the oil.
my intake fell apart, lots of plastic pieces that fit together and wouldnt stay together......hellllllooooooo duct tape.

[midnightrunxj]

2wd cherokee, 4.2L stroker motor, Police suspension, police tranny upgrades, and a 125 shot of nos. I bet that would beat a lot of cars out there today.

[89Daytona]

Thats the R/T, pretty hard to come by.
You can get the base model and swap whatever you want into it, turbo or entire engine.

[BBeach]

2wd cherokee, 4.2L stroker motor, Police suspension, police tranny upgrades, and a 125 shot of nos. I bet that would beat a lot of cars out there today.I wonder how long that engine would last with that shot of nos. :hang:

[midnightrunxj]

my buddy ran a 150 shot on his 93 at the track for quite some time. It was pretty funny watching a 4wd brick launch in 4wd and out run s2000's. Saddy its end was a head on collision.

[Beej]

my buddy ran a 150 shot on his 93 at the track for quite some time. It was pretty funny watching a 4wd brick launch in 4wd and out run s2000's. Saddy its end was a head on collision. Any pics, video or links to back up this assertion?

Its not that I don't believe you, I'm just following the advice of my arch-nemesis Horation Caine when he said: "trust, but verify"...

http://i13.tinypic.com/34hgi69.jpg

[Michaelarchangelo]

Merkur XR4tis are always something fun and diffrent. Most people have no idea what they are.

[Beej]

Merkur XR4tis are always something fun and diffrent. Most people have no idea what they are, but they do think they are the ugliest car they've ever seen.

Fixed it for ya...

:D

[Michaelarchangelo]

[/B]Fixed it for ya...

:D



haha, they aren't the worst looking cars out there, but I did get a lot of people thinking mine was either a Mustang or "some sort of escort". The look kinda grows on you after a while.

[Beej]

haha, they aren't the worst looking cars out there, but I did get a lot of people thinking mine was either a Mustang or "some sort of escort". The look kinda grows on you after a while. :D

You know, 79% of pedophiles are registered owners of Merkurs...

[XJ Dreamin']

:D

You know, 79% of pedophiles are registered owners of Merkurs...

You know, 69% of qouted statistics are made up on the spot :eeks1:

[xrayjeeper83]

2wd cherokee, 4.2L stroker motor, Police suspension, police tranny upgrades, and a 125 shot of nos. I bet that would beat a lot of cars out there today.

Instead of NOS slap a turbo on there. Thats something Im thinking of doing.

Andrew

[Michaelarchangelo]

:D

You know, 79% of pedophiles are registered owners of Merkurs...


Pssh, I know that isn't true. There are many more pedophiles on the road than merkurs!!

[XJ Dreamin']

Pssh, I know that isn't true. There are many more pedophiles on the road than merkurs!!

If every Merkur were owned by a pedophile, Beej's number would still be accurate. Pedophiles would out-number Merkurs by 126% :laugh3:

[Kittrell]

For a real fast Q-car a de-baged Audi RS-6 is unbeatable. Do not dismiss this car without driving one first(if you can find one). They are no longer imported.. AWD twin turbo 450hp 415ftlbs torque 4 door family car or wagon.

Thats a freakin' 75,000 dollar car.

[Beej]

You know, 69% of qouted statistics are made up on the spot :eeks1: Actually, 100% of my quoted statistics are made up on the spot...

:D


Instead of NOS slap a turbo on there. Thats something Im thinking of doing.

Andrew
Please post up pics and your buildup thread in the Street and Performance Forum once you've slapped your turbo on your jeep...

[XJ Dreamin']

Actually, 100% of my quoted statistics are made up on the spot...

:D



There's always the exception.

[riverfever]

I guess I have a different view of what the term "sleeper" means. I don't consider a late model Audi or Volvo or BMW to be a sleeper. An R32 is not a sleeper. If any of those cars pulled up next to me, I'd know not to fawk with it. My definition of a sleeper is something that I think looks like a turd but it'll hand you your ass real quickly. A sleeper is custom.

My buddy passed away years ago and he had a red A2 Golf 4 door. We stuffed a 16 valve turbo with SDS and lots of goodies in it. It was a hunk of crap in the looks department but it would absolutely smoke new 1.8t's and VR's.

A cool sleeper would be a Subaru Forester with some heavy, bolt ons.

[Beej]

^ I'm with riv. To me a sleeper looks like a regular mom and pop car but disappears into the distance before you realize what happened.

I had a 77 Malibu 4-door that was beat up and rusty and was missing the hubcaps, but the interior was stripped and that old 350 could make it move really quick in a straight line. I never got tired of seening open mouths in my rearview mirror as I dusted mustangs and the like...

[Kittrell]

If any of those cars pulled up next to me, I'd know not to fawk with it.

Not necessarily Chris, stock 1.8's don't really scare me................:D

[XJflexer]

'96-98 Volvo 850 T5-R sedan or wagon. Over 230 hp (I can't remember exactly how much right now). Turbo, FAST, and handle and brake like on rails. Rather affordable, too.

[midnightrunxj]

I would not recomend a Volvo or a VW to anyone that I like as a friend.

[riverfever]

Not necessarily Chris, stock 1.8's don't really scare me................:D

Ya ya ya...I know. There's video around here somewhere of his latest 2 liter creation that runs mid to high 10's. I'd be a little scared of that. At least embarassed when it was finished with me. :shhh:

I still stand by what I say about sleepers though. IMO...you can't buy a sleeper off the shelf. The nastiest sleeper is thought out and put together in a dark, evil garage. Some dude in an S6 that beats up on a (insert random car here) does not need to be proud. The car is marketed that way. Who cares about heated seats and luxury items?

[Root Moose]

I still stand by what I say about sleepers though. IMO...you can't buy a sleeper off the shelf. The nastiest sleeper is thought out and put together in a dark, evil garage. Some dude in an S6 that beats up on a (insert random car here) does not need to be proud. The car is marketed that way. Who cares about heated seats and luxury items?
x2

[riverfever]

Here's a little sweety:
(Wheels need to be ditched though...I think it would be better with stockers.)

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1161984

[GSequoia]

Gavin.

1978 Pinto

With a 427.

There's a sleeper.

PS - Feel free to subsitute Pinto for Citation and 427 for 454 if you need to.

:laugh3:

[YELLAHEEP]

Just lost a whole lotta points with me DJ..... friggin' Audi's??? Yuk.

Surprised that no one mentioned the '04 - '06 GTO's. Yeah, I'm a bit biased, but for the money, you get V8 grunt, and euro quality interior. It's the styling (or lack there of) that makes it a sleeper in my mind. De-badge it, take the spoiler off, and it looks similar to a cavalier..... until you hit the loud pedal.

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h164/TBetka/nicegto.jpg

5.7L 350hp LS1 in the '04's gets you 0-60 in 5.3, 6.0L 400hp LS2 gets 0-60 in 4.9. Drivetrain aftermarket is huge and affordable. $1,000 in mods would get you into the 500hp range quickly.

'04's can be had for under $20K, '05's for around $22,500, and still plenty of '06's on dealer lots.

Go drive one and git yer S.E.G. on!

[hadfield4wd]

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k51/hadfield4wd/bluesmobile.jpg

Elwood Blues:

It's got a cop motor: a 440 cubic inch plant. It's got cop tires, cop suspensions, cop shocks. It's a model made before catalytic converters so it'll run good on regular gas. What do you say, is this the new Bluesmobile, or what?

Acually I'll sell my A4.

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k51/hadfield4wd/DSC00018.jpg

[riverfever]

:D

Isn't it Ellwood that says something about it having a lotta "pickup"?

[\\'anderer]

Here is a real sleeper, awesome car

http://www.hotrod.com/featuredvehicles/hrdp_0611_72_nova_w2w/index.html

[IXNAYXJ]

Here is a real sleeper, awesome car

http://www.hotrod.com/featuredvehicles/hrdp_0611_72_nova_w2w/index.htmlWow, that's pretty bad-ass!

-----Matt-----

[89Daytona]

Gavin.

1978 Pinto

With a 427.

There's a sleeper.

PS - Feel free to subsitute Pinto for Citation and 427 for 454 if you need to.

:laugh3:
You mean zz572 not 454. 720 hp will just barely be enough to motivate a citation properly.

[SKIM]

I would not recomend a Volvo or a VW to anyone that I like as a friend.

Why you say that about Volvo's they are awesome and reliable cars.:nono:

[YELLAHEEP]

Here is a real sleeper, awesome car

http://www.hotrod.com/featuredvehicles/hrdp_0611_72_nova_w2w/index.html


Ummm, no. That's a bad ass pro/super stocker without the fancy paint job.

Come awn, that thing would announce it's arrival from blocks away and the 4-link and slicks are a dead giveaway. A true sleeper is a wolf in sheep's clothing - quiet and very stock looking.

Awesome nevertheless, but far from a sleeper.

[RandyD71]

It seems to me that you have a definite taste for the eorpean cars. A often overlooked alternative to a 5 series BMW, E-class Mercedes, A/S6 Audi is the Licoln LS. If you need horsepower you want a V8 model. From 2000 - 2003 they had 252 hp 2004 -2006 280 hp. The have a look that is very similar to a late 90's Bimmer. Most people don't really know what it is, and the cops kind of ignore it. The only bummer is that they are electronically limited to 132mph top speed. Not really worth a damn in the snow either. But if you want a sleeper it fits the bill. Fits four really comfortably and has enough luxury features to keep everbody happy. Go for a test drive and be surprised. Thats what happened to my buddy. Just another option for you though.

[lost1]

I'd say an early 90s Buick LeSabre. Had one of those that I was seriously considering turning into a sleeper, simply for the fact that its way more powerful than one would expect, and that one only had the 3.8 liter v6 in it. I hear tell there was a supercharged one made, I have no idea. But I DO know I could sit inside the engine bay when I was tinkering around with it, there was so much room, and it really doesn't look like much. In fact, my buick was so well-used (193k when I bought it) my friends lovingly referred to it as the 'hoopty.' (I have no idea whether I'm spelling that right or not.)

[lost1]

gee, I just saw the posts about cherokees. so I gues I should throw my wet dream in for my XJ. stroker her out to 4.8 and slap on a supercharger, with a 50lb dry shot of NOS. it'd require beefing the hell out of your drivetrain though, as you're looking at lots and lots of power all of a sudden. An option would be to further bore out the cylinders and drop in titanium sleeving in order to help the block last more than one, maybe two good takeoffs.

told you it was a wet dream.

[Kittrell]

Just lost a whole lotta points with me DJ..... friggin' Audi's??? Yuk.
Pfff, your GTO? Far from a sleeper. Those things whoop ass from the factory, and everyone knows it................:laugh3:

[BBeach]

How about a buick? They look like they have a big engine bay for who knows, http://videos.streetfire.net/video/24e471f0-7dc0-4cd4-a366-985c00b72594.htm
My ultimate sleeper would have to be what almost all of us drive, i would love to see a LS1 in an xj, sure itd take a bit of work and you'd have to make sure that the body doesnt twist up but still.

[SKIM]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/fuzz401/cecilshootout2.jpgThis is kinda a sleeper not really but still cool. it has 37" swampers and Runs a 12.609 @101 mph on 1/4 mile. here is the link to other pics. http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v11/fuzz401/?

[seanyb505]

not exactly a sleeper, but would you ever really expect it to keep up with a corvette? the world would be a much happier place if everyone had one for themselves

[Matthew Currie]

Don't forget this historic one:

http://www.turbovan.net/van.html

[manuelxj]

a guy up here in alaska has got an older suby wagon as in like the late 80s boxy body style thats turbod and has been hevaly moded low 12sec 1/4 mile car ..i need to try to find some old pics i have of it but he had a sticker on the back that said (you just got beat by a wagon)lol

[G.Q. Jeeper]

Here are my choices in various categories:

STOCK SLEEPERS:

Classic / Old School

1985-87 Dodge Omni GLH / GLHS 2.2 Turbo
1990 Ford Taurus SHO
1991 Dodge Spirit 3.0L and Turbo

LATER MODEL SLEEPERS:

Dodge SRT-4
Ford Taurus DOHC
Dodge Intrepid R/T

REAL SLEEPER@ 1978 Chrysler Town and Country 440-4BBL full house with a blower! ahahaha

Jeff

[BBeach]

Deff suby wagons with the ej25 swap or whatever, i think thats the STi 2.5 liter turbo engine, srt-4s minus the spoiler, SHOs, a lot of s13's that look pretty crappy but with engine swaps are quick cause of their lightness. One i saw the other day was a i think 99 or so buick regal, whichever has the supercharged engine in it. (The GS is motivated by the supercharged edition, with 240 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque.).

[motorcityxj]

GMC Safari, and it was likely a 4.3 liter. I had no idea they built a 5-speed version, though. :dunno:

-----Matt-----

the old school early astros and safaris you could get a 5 speed. I think it was only on the 4 banger or 2.8 v6 so the 4.3 was a swap.

a 350 V8 or stroked to 383 would be better :D

[XJoshua]

Buy my 1986 Toyota Cressida, and put in a 7M-GTE. Or get a 1989 Toyota Cressida and put a 2JZ-GTE in, they make a good 9.58sec car, and look sexy. Worlds fastest Cressida lives in AussieLand!

[motorcityxj]

Here are my choices in various categories:

STOCK SLEEPERS:

Classic / Old School

1985-87 Dodge Omni GLH / GLHS 2.2 Turbo
1990 Ford Taurus SHO
1991 Dodge Spirit 3.0L and Turbo

LATER MODEL SLEEPERS:

Dodge SRT-4
Ford Taurus DOHC
Dodge Intrepid R/T

REAL SLEEPER@ 1978 Chrysler Town and Country 440-4BBL full house with a blower! ahahaha

Jeff


good old school sleepers with the omni, taurus, and spirit, though i would include any first gen 5 speed taurus when they have the sweet yamaha engine. Nothing taurus second gen is a total POS. The spirit rt was a 2.2 or 2.5 4 banger turbo i thought not a 3.0.

My suggestion fergie was if you want a classic bmw go 1980s 6 series

http://www5b.biglobe.ne.jp/~atc/bmw635csi.jpg

http://www.my635.com/treffen_26_06_04_Nuerburgring/img_0040.jpg

or a 1995 ish bmw 540i

you can pick up a 6 speed and v8 for a real bargain like 12 grand.

I really like the way these looked pre bangle, looked modern but definately bmw with the old school individual head lights

http://www.stsmotors.com/540/p1010002.jpg


my old man has a 86 BMW M5 and he is up past 330,000 miles, no engine work. Original tranny, just went through a few clutches, no rebuilds.

[IXNAYXJ]

It took me a while to find this pic, but here's my buddy's Dinan M5:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/Evans%2027Aug06/DSC01067.jpg

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

Those are some slick lookin' taillights Matt.................:D

[IXNAYXJ]

Those are some slick lookin' taillights Matt.................:DWell, it all most people see of that car. :D

I was going for the badges more than the entire car in that pic. Do you know who Steve Dinan is? I'll try to find the picture of me driving it, dialing in full opposite lock at 35 mph. :firedevil

-----Matt-----

[RichP]

Back in 68 when I bought my 66 GT350 the shelby dealer, Morristown Ford or Shelbyville East, had a bunch of 67 ford 2 door torino's, all copper with tan vinyl tops, stock hub caps and bench seats, that was before they got big. Came equipped with a 427 side oiler, 4 speed, ford rear with a detroit, we called em taxicab rears, they had shelby drive trains, open the door and look down on the sill and there was the KR.... they did pound the floor pan up under the seats to fit the dual mufflers and rear wheel well work to fit the narrowed rear and blue streak tires... Never seen them mentioned in the shelby history books though.
Then there were the 66 and 67 Mercury Cyclones, another family looking midsize car with a 427 and 4 speed...handled like crap but straight line wooooohoo....then there was the 69 Nova SS with either a 396or 427 [rare]
The new ones have come a long way, not so much performance wise but handling and traction.

[gbaronetXCR]

Did the s10 deal.. 90 shortbox.
383 sbc, carb then fuelie.Seen 425 rwhp 700 r4 shit kit, 4 link posi.
Next wsil be a awd blazer with an ls1. wheel spin in the truck is a big deal, but was a blast to drive.

[XJCasper]

"High End" and sleeper don't work in my book.

After I read through the thread I will give you my answers.

[casm]

"High End" and sleeper don't work in my book.

Dunno - I was passed the other day by an early-to-mid '70s vintage Mercedes 350 SEL (IIRC) with the 6.3-litre V8 in it. Thing was positively flying along - it wasn't until I caught up with it in traffic and saw the the '6.3' badge on the back that it made sense. Small body, big engine, old so looks slow, but lotsa speed. Need to watch out for the air suspension on them, though.

One project I've had in mind for some time is a Rover P6 (http://www.austin-rover.co.uk/index.htm?p6indexf.htm) fitted with a later de-smogged Range Rover 4.6-litre V8 - essentially the last iteration of Rover's licence-built version of the Buick 215, and with some tweaking can put out enourmous amounts of power. Again, not exactly what's being asked for here, but the idea of a virtually-unknown (in the US, at least) British car picking off most everything else at the lights is rather appealing to me.

[G.Q. Jeeper]

I do think the true meaning of a sleeper is just that a car that has no business dusting off high end cars or fast cars all together.

BMW's Mercedes, stuff like that are not exactally sleepers, I mean you do not get many people thinking they are nothing cars, but if you get a Turbo Charged Omni and blow the gaskets out of a RX-7 I personally think you just found yourself a sleeper...

To me a sleeper is something that looks like it belongs in Grandma's driveway but is hiding a secret weapon under it's hood!

Soupy Socks

Jeff

[XJCasper]

Ok, All of my Sleeper cars have been mentioned.

Little more detail:
1989 and 1990 Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan had a 2.5 T1 option. Awesome sleeper, but not what this guy is looking for.

Since no one has posted pics of the GLH/S, here we go:

http://www.geocities.com/jmotorsprt/glhs.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/jmotorsprt/glhs2.jpg

My cousin's GLHS next to my GLH. Daily drivers.

[casm]

I do think the true meaning of a sleeper is just that a car that has no business dusting off high end cars or fast cars all together.

Agreed. But by the same token, there is such a thing as the sleeper high-end car. More:

BMW's Mercedes, stuff like that are not exactally sleepers, I mean you do not get many people thinking they are nothing cars

Point taken - but if you take a model that's known for being a slug, particularly if it's older, and make a rocket out of it, more power to ya. A BMW 2002 properly turboed (and I'm not referring to the factory turbo models) is a great example; ditto a 6.3-litre Mercedes, or a well-set-up 2.6-litre 190E. Shoehorn a Fiat 124 2-litre twin-cam into a Fiat 850 (driven one with exactly that setup) and you'll surprise the crap out of damn near everyone.

For total perversity value, I'd go with my last car - a 1989 Peugeot 405 Mi16. Kiss passing smog goodbye, but there's a massive aftermarket for them in Europe. What better sleeper in the US than a French car?

To me a sleeper is something that looks like it belongs in Grandma's driveway but is hiding a secret weapon under it's hood!

Totally agreed - it's just that there's a lot of ways to do that. The GLH-S is proof ;)

[Fergie]

Some of you girls are over-analyzing the "sleeper" moniker a bit.

To me, a sleeper is anything you dont expect, be it a minivan, or a de-badged M5.

[89Daytona]

Here is a really nice omni (I think it had a Porsche drivetrain transplant)
http://www.300zxclub.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=4051


To me, a sleeper is anything you dont expect, be it a minivan, or a de-badged M5.
So these are all sleepers then....

http://www.300zxclub.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=4100

http://www.300zxclub.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=4101

http://www.300zxclub.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5453

http://www.300zxclub.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5833

[goodburbon]

you suck at the internet


:)

[89Daytona]

you suck at the internet
:)
Do the images not show up for you? They show up for me...

[98XJSport]

Makes perfect sense, the red x's make em look slow...

Seriously though the idea of a sleeper to me is a looks slow goes fast car. Miata with a v8 swap type of thing. I never mess with euro cars just because I know nothing about them, but they have huge potential to destroy my car, which is only at best quick. I have the opposite of a sleeper, looks fast but isn't lol.

[89Daytona]

Second try....
Here is a really nice omni (I think it had a Porsche drivetrain transplant)

http://free.300zxclub.com/files/71/Cars/omnivore1.jpg

Originally Posted by Fergie - "To me, a sleeper is anything you dont expect, be it a minivan, or a de-badged M5."

So these are all sleepers then....

http://free.300zxclub.com/files/71/Cars/caution%20car.jpg

http://free.300zxclub.com/files/71/Cars/sem20oldsmobile.jpg


http://free.300zxclub.com/files/71/Cars/pig.jpg

http://free.300zxclub.com/files/71/Cars/86%20300zx.jpg

[Beej]

No, those aren't sleepers, those are just stupid.

casm, there are several old Rover P6's in town (Victoria, BC) as this is a big time old British town. In fact there are dozens of weird old European and British cars around town. I'm going downtown in a few hours here, I'll see if I can get a pic of a P6 or something similar. A real sleeper I'm aware of in town here is a 1973 MGB with a 1976 Rover SD1's 3.5 V8 swapped in. It looks totally stock but disappears into the horizon pretty quickly.

A semi-sleeper I'd love to have is an early 90's Nissan Skyline GT-R. They can be had up here for less than ten grand. My brother and I are seriously considering picking one up. I know they aren't a sleeper to anyone who knows that car, but not very many people do. They really just look like an early 90's sedan with the steering wheel on the wrong side... :D

[casm]

No, those aren't sleepers, those are just stupid.

And the scary part is that someone, somewhere, probably considers them to be the coolest thing ever.

casm, there are several old Rover P6's in town (Victoria, BC) as this is a big time old British town.

Funny you should mention that - last time I was in that neck of the woods (2003), I saw a couple running around and one parked out front of some shops.

In fact there are dozens of weird old European and British cars around town. I'm going downtown in a few hours here, I'll see if I can get a pic of a P6 or something similar. A real sleeper I'm aware of in town here is a 1973 MGB with a 1976 Rover SD1's 3.5 V8 swapped in. It looks totally stock but disappears into the horizon pretty quickly.

If you could get some photos, that would be awesome. I had a P6 in college for a while, and really loved that car. I know where there're a few around here needing attention; if only I had parking I'd be doing the Range Rover / Morgan V8 swap.

That MGB's running what also used to be a popular Land-Rover swap - P6 or SD1 V8, SD1 5-speed and rear axle (IIRC). Made for some seriously grunty Series IIIs; going 110mph in one is frightening.

[Beej]

What a gloomy day. I didn't see a single nice old restored car, but I stopped by my mechanic's to check out what he's working on right now. Here are a few shots...

http://i18.tinypic.com/2zsyxpc.jpg

http://i10.tinypic.com/2wmnj10.jpg

http://i18.tinypic.com/2wn4aac.jpg
http://i16.tinypic.com/48mlkd5.jpg

http://i13.tinypic.com/345d2ro.jpg

[TRSCobra]

I'd go for the 89-95 Taurus SHO 5 speed. (I have a 93)

Here's a vid from one of the guys on SHOForum.com

http://videos.streetfire.net/search/sho/3/bdce5075-516c-4619-bdf8-c8021e1cd78c.htm

This is from over a year ago, he recently re did the whole turbo setup.

[Root Moose]

No, those aren't sleepers, those are just stupid.

Kinda dig the cow pattern Nissan - about what it takes to make a Nissan appeal to me I guess.

A real sleeper I'm aware of in town here is a 1973 MGB with a 1976 Rover SD1's 3.5 V8 swapped in. It looks totally stock but disappears into the horizon pretty quickly.

the hot setup these days seems to be a SBF (302) w/ T5. Check mgbexperience.com if you are serious. 3800cc is popular too. I was thinking about a MGB before I remembered that I hate doing bodywork.

[Root Moose]

http://i13.tinypic.com/345d2ro.jpg


Man those are fugly.

[ROOK1]

Man those are fugly.
Wht did you expect? They are in Canada. :D

Although I like the Jag.

[motorcityxj]

Second try....

Here is a really nice omni (I think it had a Porsche drivetrain transplant)


http://free.300zxclub.com/files/71/Cars/omnivore1.jpg


looks sweet with that tire rim combo. Curious what you know about it, a porsche drivetrain swap? I have seen chrylser LHS with an second engine in the trunk so anything is possible, what did he swap. A 928-944 in front and made a rwd omni?

[XJCasper]

Looks like a GLH/S

Usually these owners don't go Porsche parts, so I doubt it.

But there are alot of transplanted engines in Omnis. Usually 2.2 or 2.5 Turbo from other chrysler cars into standard Omnis.

There are a couple owners that have gone to a SRT-4 engine in the mid-80's Chrysler bodies.

[89Daytona]

looks sweet with that tire rim combo. Curious what you know about it, a porsche drivetrain swap? I have seen chrylser LHS with an second engine in the trunk so anything is possible, what did he swap. A 928-944 in front and made a rwd omni?
It was like 5 years ago when I found that info, I can't seem to find it again on the web.... But VW did buy the molds for the omni, so it seems reasonable that VW/porsche parts would fit although a rwd conversion would take some fab work. http://www.allpar.com/omni/omni.html

You can get rear wheel drive conversion parts ( http://www.exlinecustomauto.com/Daytona.htm ) for Dodge Daytonas, the parts should be easily adaptable to other kcar variants or you could base your own work on their design.

Kinda dig the cow pattern Nissan - about what it takes to make a Nissan appeal to me I guess.
Thats a 1986 Nissan 300zx, v6, rear wheel drive, 4 wheel disc brakes, t-tops.... fun car, and all the girls like it.

[Rob Mayercik]

Ok, All of my Sleeper cars have been mentioned.

Little more detail:
1989 and 1990 Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan had a 2.5 T1 option. Awesome sleeper, but not what this guy is looking for.

Since no one has posted pics of the GLH/S, here we go:

http://www.geocities.com/jmotorsprt/glhs.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/jmotorsprt/glhs2.jpg

My cousin's GLHS next to my GLH. Daily drivers.

You and you cousins are two lucky sonsof*******. Take care of those beautiful L-bodies - they're rare and wonderful cars. (and to find a couple of DDs in that kind of condition is especially wondrous) Did you know that Edmunds named the Omni one of the 40 most significant vehicles of the last 40 years? If anyone's a subscriber to the Rockford Register Star, look to Alex Gary's column next weekend (1/8/07) - I'll be in it, representing the L-Bodies.

For those of you that aren't yet schooled on the "Goes Like Hell" and "Goes Like Hell S'more", here's an article on a GT350 getting owned by a GLHS, courtesy of Hot Rod Magazine:

http://www.carmemories.com/cgi-bin/viewexperience.cgi?experience_id=113

Surely this cements the Omni GLH/GLHT/GLHS as one of the ultimate sleepers.

[casm]

Man those are fugly.

I'll admit that I'm probably in the minority who actually likes the styling of the P6 (and remember - this is a car that first entered production in 1963), but either way you've got to admit that that makes it perfect for a sleeper: old, unusual, and kind of funny-looking. Nobody would ever expect it to turn a 12-second quarter-mile ;)

[Root Moose]

I kinda dig the look of them EXCEPT for the drop in the roof-line from the B-pillar on back - reminds me too much of a similar vintage Citroen.

The grille and turn indicators are fugly in a cool way.

Reality is that with wide enough tires/wheels any car looks good.

[Root Moose]

http://i18.tinypic.com/2zsyxpc.jpg

What is this POS? It is kinda cool looking too.

[XJCasper]

(and to find a couple of DDs in that kind of condition is especially wondrous)

My cousin did a Butt load of work to get both cars to their current conditions. I think both cars still have a "To Do" list. My cousins is closer to "finished", if there is such a thing.

[casm]

I kinda dig the look of them EXCEPT for the drop in the roof-line from the B-pillar on back - reminds me too much of a similar vintage Citroen.

Funny you should mention that - the styling was largely based on the Citroen DS, hence the roofline. Of course, I also think the DS is the most beautiful car ever made and I am a massive Citroen bigot, so take that for what you will ;)

The grille and turn indicators are fugly in a cool way.

The non-US-spec cars were better looking, IMHO - except for the US-spec V8s, which got the triple-scoop hood. Gave them a nicely mean air, kind of like a bulldog with a monocle.

[casm]

What is this POS? It is kinda cool looking too.

It's a Rover P5 (http://www.roverp5club.org.uk/). This is the earlier 6-cylinder model (pre-Rover/Buick V8, aka the P5B), identifiable by the higher roofline and slats across the taillights. Good cars, built like tanks (much like the P6), but not imbued with much in the way of urgency.

[churky89]

My favorite was an early sixties, Valiant station wagon, flat and peeling red paint, four door, with a built Hemi, load flite manual shift auto tranny and a 4.88 Dana rear (full floating axles ). A conservative estimate of 400 HP, which wasn't the whole story, the torque that sucker produced was awesome. The body would flex and the tail gate would pop open. 10.50/16 Town and Country snow treads, aired down to about 15 PSI (they actually lauched really well). The tires would regularly disintigrate, but they were a large part of the fun. Tire chunks pelting the poor sap behind me. Had a sign on the door (hand painted) that said "Need your pipes cleaned" call Chuck.
It has too look anything but quick, with a large surprise factor, to be any fun.

That my freinds is a true "SLEEPER"...Back in the "MUSCLE CAR"days...I knew several people who would do things like the above mentioned "VALANT"...seen it done with Mustangs....Cameros...Ford Galaxies...most were what we called "Mom and Pop Cars" just plain Jane on the outside....but under the hood was a different story

[bjoehandley]

Probably one of the best things to keep in mind when it comes to a sleeper's appearance is "If you do it right, it's like you've done nothing at all" (now let's see who knows where I got that phrase from :) )

[Root Moose]

Funny you should mention that - the styling was largely based on the Citroen DS, hence the roofline. Of course, I also think the DS is the most beautiful car ever made and I am a massive Citroen bigot, so take that for what you will ;)

Yes, I remember reading about your fetish for French cars. ;)

Beyond the Alpines and racing Matras I don't have much time for French cars.

[Root Moose]

It's a Rover P5 (http://www.roverp5club.org.uk/). This is the earlier 6-cylinder model (pre-Rover/Buick V8, aka the P5B), identifiable by the higher roofline and slats across the taillights. Good cars, built like tanks (much like the P6), but not imbued with much in the way of urgency.

That's what I like about the early car, the "heavy" shapes.

I dunno what precipitated the change in styling from that type to the lighter, airier feel of later cars (speaking in general car terms, not Rover "P" specific). Was it driven by better manufacturing techniques or changes in styling influences, like say the M-B SLs with their "pagoda" roofs or what?

[Rob Mayercik]

My cousin did a Butt load of work to get both cars to their current conditions. I think both cars still have a "To Do" list. My cousins is closer to "finished", if there is such a thing.

I stand corrected - and might I add, your cousin does nice work. Kudos for saving something rather special from oblivion...

[casm]

Probably one of the best things to keep in mind when it comes to a sleeper's appearance is "If you do it right, it's like you've done nothing at all" (now let's see who knows where I got that phrase from :) )

Futurama :) That episode was on again last night.

[streetpirate]

Ok, All of my Sleeper cars have been mentioned.

Little more detail:
1989 and 1990 Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan had a 2.5 T1 option. Awesome sleeper, but not what this guy is looking for.

Since no one has posted pics of the GLH/S, here we go:

http://www.geocities.com/jmotorsprt/glhs.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/jmotorsprt/glhs2.jpg

My cousin's GLHS next to my GLH. Daily drivers.


not one, but two go-carts from hell!

[sandmcrew2]

Dude, those glh's are f-ing sick!! Ive thought many times about swapping my engine into one of those light turbo dodges, it would probably run high 11's, in street trim, but my car is in too nice of condition, my grampa was the original owner, only has 75k miles, and these are extremely rare.. (1208 made in 91).
.... The 91 Dodge Spirit R/T, 12.7 @ 108 on crappy california pump gas. I consider it a sleeper....
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f219/sandmcrew2/IMGP1563.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f219/sandmcrew2/P1010136.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f219/sandmcrew2/IMGP1463.jpg
BTW that button on the steering wheel is a remote switch for the dual stage boost control, keeps me from smokin the tires til 70 :). And if that deck looks familiar, Its because it came out of my 98 XJ.
here is a link to the original magizine add..
http://www.xmission.com/~dempsey/shelby/91rtad.jpg (http://www.xmission.com/%7Edempsey/shelby/91rtad.jpg)
-Jerry

[motorcityxj]

Dude, those glh's are f-ing sick!! Ive thought many times about swapping my engine into one of those light turbo dodges, it would probably run high 11's, in street trim, but my car is in too nice of condition, my grampa was the original owner, only has 75k miles, and these are extremely rare.. (1208 made in 91).
.... The 91 Dodge Spirit R/T, 12.7 @ 108 on crappy california pump gas. I consider it a sleeper....

BTW that button on the steering wheel is a remote switch for the dual stage boost control, keeps me from smokin the tires til 70 :). And if that deck looks familiar, Its because it came out of my 98 XJ.
here is a link to the original magizine add..
http://www.xmission.com/~dempsey/shelby/91rtad.jpg (http://www.xmission.com/%7Edempsey/shelby/91rtad.jpg)
-Jerry

lol cool grandpa. my grandpa drove a mid 80s chrylser 5th avenue till he died when i was a elementry school kid. To his credit there still is a pretty mint garaged (and parked since about 1980) '66 imperial lebaron with a 413 cubic inch sitting in grannies garage.

Some day me and my brother are gonna pimp it out.

Did your grandpa know he was buying the highperformance model ?

[XJCasper]

I stand corrected - and might I add, your cousin does nice work. Kudos for saving something rather special from oblivion...


Thank you

Considering the volume of time and work my cousin spent on the cars, I HAVE to give him the credit. Wouldn't feel right otherwise.

[Rob Mayercik]

Thank you

Considering the volume of time and work my cousin spent on the cars, I HAVE to give him the credit. Wouldn't feel right otherwise.

Welcome.

Rather ironic that all this L-body love is popping up lately (the Edmunds bit, those stunning pics of your rides, and my '84 making the Rockford Star) - I wonder what finally triggered people to finally give these little go-devils their props?

Must be fun riding shotgun and watching peoples' faces when you blow past them on the highway. (my father used to joke that with the rusty old '73 corolla he had years ago, people used to check their speedos to make sure they weren't going backwards as he sailed by)

"Gee, officer, you mean I really can go that fast in this thing?"

streetpirate: Go-carts from Hell - I like that!

Rob

[mrrbby]

Dude, those glh's are f-ing sick!! Ive thought many times about swapping my engine into one of those light turbo dodges, it would probably run high 11's, in street trim, but my car is in too nice of condition, my grampa was the original owner, only has 75k miles, and these are extremely rare.. (1208 made in 91).
.... The 91 Dodge Spirit R/T, 12.7 @ 108 on crappy california pump gas. I consider it a sleeper....
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f219/sandmcrew2/IMGP1563.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f219/sandmcrew2/P1010136.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f219/sandmcrew2/IMGP1463.jpg
BTW that button on the steering wheel is a remote switch for the dual stage boost control, keeps me from smokin the tires til 70 :). And if that deck looks familiar, Its because it came out of my 98 XJ.
here is a link to the original magizine add..
http://www.xmission.com/~dempsey/shelby/91rtad.jpg (http://www.xmission.com/%7Edempsey/shelby/91rtad.jpg)
-Jerry
Wow, you have one that actually runs! Just kidding. Those were fun cars, and cheap if the seller didn't realize what they had. Nothing quite like a 14 second (stock) k-car. I enjoyed driving my friend's mom's spirit r/t. Of course, it was kinda tame compared to the 340 powered Dusters/Demons and Challengers she used to drive, but fun. A real sleeper.

[sandmcrew2]

Oh yeah, my grampa definetly knew what he was buying when he bought the R/T. He has a 69 GTX in the garage, original owner! This was actually my grandma's gar (not your usual granny). When they gave this car to me, she got a red SRT4 to replace it. I know what your saying, "wow, it actually runs". It takes someone who really knows these cars to keep them goin. I think the car had like 4 timing belts fail before I got it, and found out the reason why they kept breakin. One of the reasons my grampa gave the car to me is he knew I would keep it running, which is what he wanted to see. Thanks for the compliments guys, it is definetly a fun car. BTW this was my DD for about 3 years, until I bought my XJ, to keep the miles on this car down. And maintinance for such a rare car costs LOTS O' $$$$$$!! Something a 20 year old college student doesnt have!

-Jerry

[ponyracer1]

You want euro sleeper? What about a Porche with a LS1 ally v8? What was the front engine 9 series from the mid/late 80's?? 914?? 923?? I remember seeing a kit to bolt a sbc in one.

[hadfield4wd]

You want euro sleeper? What about a Porche with a LS1 ally v8? What was the front engine 9 series from the mid/late 80's?? 914?? 923?? I remember seeing a kit to bolt a sbc in one.

928

[IXNAYXJ]

You want euro sleeper? What about a Porche with a LS1 ally v8?http://smiley.onegreatguy.net/puke2.gif

-----Matt-----

[Beej]

You want euro sleeper? What about a Porche with a LS1 ally v8? What was the front engine 9 series from the mid/late 80's?? 914?? 923?? I remember seeing a kit to bolt a sbc in one. The 928's already got a V8, why swap in an LS1? The sound alone would be a huge giveaway. Plus no-one is going to assume a Porsche is a slow old clunker, hence the sleeper factor is toasted...

My old Camaro would have been a sleeper then too. When I blew the stocker 305, my dad found an aluminum block Corvette V8 that we swapped in. That sucker ate everything for breakfast after that. Everyone assumed it was a stock Z28, but it killed everything...

[motorcityxj]

You want euro sleeper? What about a Porche with a LS1 ally v8? What was the front engine 9 series from the mid/late 80's?? 914?? 923?? I remember seeing a kit to bolt a sbc in one.

928 front engine rwd V8
http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-pqr/porsche-928-red-3.jpg

944 front engine I4 2.5, 2.7 and 3.0 RWD

http://jimweb.free.fr/side.jpg

968 is allota 944 in it successor to the 944 3.0 4 banger

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/5a/968.JPG

all to pretty to be a sleeper.


they somewhat ugly 914 could be the basis for a sleeper.

http://www.caradisiac.com/media/images/collection/porsche_914.jpg


since were talking about rwd air cooled germans .... i once saw online a mid 80s VW vanagon. It had porshe wheels i think 911 or boxster the 5-6 spoker turbo blade ones. It had a suburu WRX engine in the back.

Now a wrx sti with the 270 or whatever hp they have in a vanagon would be a sleeper even with a cool stnace and porsche wheels.

[motorcityxj]

googled the wrx vangon its on cardomain.

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/543989


http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/3/web/543000-543999/543989_14_full.jpg

[IXNAYXJ]

they somewhat ugly 914 could be the basis for a sleeper.914s are actually starting to get valuable again, especially the 914-6s.

I did see a SBC converted 914 at an auction when I was down at the Monterey Historics this year:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/Laguna%20Seca/DSC00784.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/Laguna%20Seca/DSC00785.jpg

That's gotta be a scary ride....

-----Matt-----

[98XJSport]

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g26/Rhutchinson123/autox.jpg
http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g26/Rhutchinson123/AMiata3small.jpg
Small underpowered from factory chick car... with a v8. Sleeper.

http://www.v8miata.homestead.com/files/atco1.wmv
v8 miata dragging

different one's dyno
http://home.comcast.net/~cmos20/miata/images/dyno.gif

[Starboard M]

A BMW 2002 properly turboed (and I'm not referring to the factory turbo models) is a great example; ditto a 6.3-litre Mercedes, or a well-set-up 2.6-litre 190E. Shoehorn a Fiat 124 2-litre twin-cam into a Fiat 850 (driven one with exactly that setup) and you'll surprise the crap out of damn near everyone.
A friend of mine is going to stroke and turbo his '74? 2002. Hes hoping for minimum of 250hp. Should be doable. Hes also hoping for about 1600lbs or less. Not sure if that is really possible or not, but should be fun... Hes thinking of either making it a sleeper, all stock, minus cage and slightly larger tires and wheels, or going all out vintage racer. Should be sick when hes done with it.

[Starboard M]

There seem to be two different camps in this thread when it comes to the term "sleeper." One side is the stock late model cars, while others are more at the '70s POS that looks like it should be at the dump.

To me, I think I can align more with the second. Almost anyone can buy a stock car that is really fast and go beat the stupid idiots driving the stock Honda Civics with all the bolt on junk. But it takes skill to shoehorn a big block V8 into a small car and keep it looking stock. That to me would be way more fun and enjoyable.

[SeanP]

Oh yeah, my grampa definetly knew what he was buying when he bought the R/T. He has a 69 GTX in the garage, original owner! This was actually my grandma's gar (not your usual granny). When they gave this car to me, she got a red SRT4 to replace it. I know what your saying, "wow, it actually runs". It takes someone who really knows these cars to keep them goin. I think the car had like 4 timing belts fail before I got it, and found out the reason why they kept breakin. One of the reasons my grampa gave the car to me is he knew I would keep it running, which is what he wanted to see. Thanks for the compliments guys, it is definetly a fun car. BTW this was my DD for about 3 years, until I bought my XJ, to keep the miles on this car down. And maintinance for such a rare car costs LOTS O' $$$$$$!! Something a 20 year old college student doesnt have!

-Jerry

Jerry, i would be interested in seeing this mopar that broke 4 "timing belts" Give me a PM, I am just across town.

[Darky]

A cool sleeper would be a Subaru Forester with some heavy, bolt ons.

A stock Forester 2.5XT is quite the sleeper. Turbo motor from a STi, minus some horsepower. I think its in low to mid 200s. Runs 0-60 in under 6s

[jeep8796]

an xj with a chevy big block

[Kittrell]

an xj with a chevy big block

Welcome to NAXJA, now go away.

[goodburbon]

Welcome to NAXJA, now go away.

I know the temptation but please try not to be such a dick to noobs. It looks like he was being silly.

[Kittrell]

I know the temptation but please try not to be such a dick to noobs. It looks like he was being silly.

That took longer then I thought.................:D

[8Mud]

There seem to be two different camps in this thread when it comes to the term "sleeper." One side is the stock late model cars, while others are more at the '70s POS that looks like it should be at the dump.

To me, I think I can align more with the second. Almost anyone can buy a stock car that is really fast and go beat the stupid idiots driving the stock Honda Civics with all the bolt on junk. But it takes skill to shoehorn a big block V8 into a small car and keep it looking stock. That to me would be way more fun and enjoyable.

I'll throw in a third. Had a 71 Dodge long bed PU, lime green with an off white roof (just like the forestry trucks) except it was a Custom Camper Special (Luxery model), sprung for 1 1/4 tons. Had a buddy (Von Dutch) paint two near perfect Department of the Interior decals on the door. Except at the bottom, where they have the Bear, mine had a very small shadow drawing of two nudes (guy chasing a girl) and he left off the lettering.
Had a 440 big block out of a mid sixties Imperial, with a cross ram intake and a hot ignition setup. It was geared with a 3.23 rear end and was designed to be a freeway flyer. I used to drive for weeks, sometimes months on the interstate and never be passed by anybody. Had dual saddle tanks, that I kept full for ballast, a roll cage and winshield braces. I had a really bad experience with the windshield, big flat and pushed a lot of air and wasn't up to 130+ MPH speeds. I rairly ran it higher than 125, but had plenty of pedal left. It accelerated from 60 to 120, just about as fast as it did from 0 to 60.
I never, not once got a ticket in that truck. I often wondered how many complaints the Department of the Interior recieved about somebody speeding in one fo there trucks. :)
I had a buddy, who had a Blues Brothers type old CHP car, he tweaked some. Inside a gold star on the door, he painted a picture of Mickey Mouse sticking his tongue out. Got a applaud his audacitiy, but question his good sense. He could rarley drive around the block, without being pulled over.

[87manche]

A friend of mine is going to stroke and turbo his '74? 2002. Hes hoping for minimum of 250hp. Should be doable. Hes also hoping for about 1600lbs or less. Not sure if that is really possible or not, but should be fun... Hes thinking of either making it a sleeper, all stock, minus cage and slightly larger tires and wheels, or going all out vintage racer. Should be sick when hes done with it.
I've been following this guys 2002 build fora while.
He grenaded the rear end and so he did a driveline swap, then moved on to a newer intake and a homebuilt megasquirt.
Those 2002's are certainly a cool little car, and it doesn't take much power to make something that light go fast.
http://www.finkbuilt.com/blog/category/automotive/

[motorcityxj]

Welcome to NAXJA, now go away.

an xj with a chevy big block

ya mean like this http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/DSCF3519.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/DSCF3510.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/454xj1.jpg


for sale http://www.greatlakes4x4.com/showthread.php?t=28374&page=2&highlight=cherokee

[bjoehandley]

ya mean like this http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/DSCF3519.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/DSCF3510.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/454xj1.jpg


for sale http://www.greatlakes4x4.com/showthread.php?t=28374&page=2&highlight=cherokee

I think I've heard stories of that monster:shocked:

[Kittrell]

ya mean like this

I remember it, I originally hosted the pictures for you. Not exactly a sleeper..............;)

[IXNAYXJ]

[ISmall underpowered from factory chick car... with a v8. Sleeper.Lots of fun...but can be a handful in the wet:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/1148667720.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/1148682151.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j160/ixnayxj/1148680363.jpg

1991 Monster Miata, Tremec T-5 World Class, Ford Performance Crate 5.0, GT 40 heads, Barry Grant Race Demon carb, T-bird rear axle, 340 RWHP, 2300 lbs. I raced a Ferrari 575 M from 45 to 140 and we were neck and neck, until aerodynamics took over a he started pulling away. I really miss that car.... :(

-----Matt-----

[motorcityxj]

I remember it, I originally hosted the pictures for you. Not exactly a sleeper..............;)

lol not mine i just saw it on great lakes, thanks for hosting the pics its definatley something i wanted to see a picture of it shoe horned in the xj engine bay. Not mine though. I agree not a sleeper with 454 on the door, or the not so subtle header pipes visable. Sleeper'ish if you deleted the decals.

[rredalty]

I'm partial to my old Galant VR-4 number 595/2000. Should have never gotten rid of that one among others.

[motorcityxj]

I'm partial to my old Galant VR-4 number 595/2000. Should have never gotten rid of that one among others.

VERY good i didnt think of that. This is probably the best TRUE sleeper so far. I have to think most teenager ricers arent hip to the fact the old galant was powered by the eclipse turbo 4 and had awd. It holds up well even today to the newer WRX which is 10-14 years newer. (the base WRX not the STI so much)

can be made to look VERY plain jane, if you just put on some regular stock rims from 100 ft. most folks would think its a 1992 ish 4 banger accord.

http://kokkhai.tripod.com/2gvr4.jpg



WEEEEE

http://i1.tinypic.com/nlzhoy.jpg

[Matthew Currie]

A friend of mine back in college days had one of these:

http://www.calcruisingauctions.com/images3/66%20Red%20Tiger-1.jpg

Ferocious! 260 Ford V8, later a 289, but the 260 was said to be faster.

[Chero-King]

A friend of mine back in college days had one of these:

http://www.calcruisingauctions.com/images3/66%20Red%20Tiger-1.jpg

Ferocious! 260 Ford V8, later a 289, but the 260 was said to be faster.

That ones nice...
But I like this one better: http://www.jalopnik.com/cars/custom-carshot-rods/hold-that-tiger-custom-465hp-sunbeam-141129.php
:)

[IXNAYXJ]

That ones nice...
But I like this one better: http://www.jalopnik.com/cars/custom-carshot-rods/hold-that-tiger-custom-465hp-sunbeam-141129.php
:)I LOVE Tigers. It was the inspiration for the Monster Miata.

-----Matt-----

[casm]

A friend of mine back in college days had one of these:

And with a little tweaking, they can be made to handle really well. Always liked the shape on the Series V Alpines and Tigers, and you could up the 'WTF' factor by talking on a shoe phone while driving :D

[XJCasper]

Another one, not quite a sleeper. Passed a CLEAN gold Turbo Conquest/Starion today.

[lost1]

hehe...howsabout a '94 Lexus LS400? Granted, the stock 4.0 V8 is a little tame, at 250hp/260 torque...but then again dual turbos can fix that...a first generation LS400(90-94) was built to produce 2700 horses at one point, just an example of an extreme take on a good engine. Look at it like this too...their retail is 11K, their private party value not even 9K. I got mine for 4,500, and on Ebay you can find them for 6. You're looking at Toyotas answer to the luxury sedan(and Toyota already has a good name in autos.)

Edit: I suggested 94 because in 93 the brakes wer upgraded, and in 94 some body trim adjustments were made. Also, according to several lexus clubs online, 94 was to most reliable year for the first-gen LS 400s...and the first-gens were the most reliable among the earlier incarnations of the LS model.

[bjoehandley]

ya mean like this http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/DSCF3519.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l96/larboc/454xj1.jpg


for sale http://www.greatlakes4x4.com/showthread.php?t=28374&page=2&highlight=cherokee


You know the more I look at that, if you throw a beam axle under the front with some skinnies and put some funny car slicks on the back, that truck would look like a gasser!

[Beej]

hehe...howsabout a '94 Lexus LS400? Granted, the stock 4.0 V8 is a little tame, at 250hp/260 torque...but then again dual turbos can fix that...a first generation LS400(90-94) was built to produce 2700 horses at one point, just an example of an extreme take on a good engine. Look at it like this too...their retail is 11K, their private party value not even 9K. I got mine for 4,500, and on Ebay you can find them for 6. You're looking at Toyotas answer to the luxury sedan(and Toyota already has a good name in autos.)

Edit: I suggested 94 because in 93 the brakes wer upgraded, and in 94 some body trim adjustments were made. Also, according to several lexus clubs online, 94 was to most reliable year for the first-gen LS 400s...and the first-gens were the most reliable among the earlier incarnations of the LS model. Is it front-wheel or rear-wheel drive?

[bjoehandley]

Is it front-wheel or rear-wheel drive?


Rear, the only fwd Lexus' are the ones built off the Camery platform (the ES and RX I believe).

[streetpirate]

Welcome.

Rather ironic that all this L-body love is popping up lately (the Edmunds bit, those stunning pics of your rides, and my '84 making the Rockford Star) - I wonder what finally triggered people to finally give these little go-devils their props?

Must be fun riding shotgun and watching peoples' faces when you blow past them on the highway. (my father used to joke that with the rusty old '73 corolla he had years ago, people used to check their speedos to make sure they weren't going backwards as he sailed by)

"Gee, officer, you mean I really can go that fast in this thing?"

streetpirate: Go-carts from Hell - I like that!

Rob


the "Go Cart From Hell" was a $50 horizon that me and my TD buddy matt the hutt got over the summer. it was dubbed the go cart from hell to complement "The Minivan of Fury" owned by matt. sadley, the engine seized several months later, and all we had done to the car at that point was remove the exhaust at the header and put AAR Cuda stripes on it. we both envisioned is lowered, flat black, with about 22lbs of boost.

[Rob Mayercik]

the "Go Cart From Hell" was a $50 horizon that me and my TD buddy matt the hutt got over the summer. it was dubbed the go cart from hell to complement "The Minivan of Fury" owned by matt. sadley, the engine seized several months later, and all we had done to the car at that point was remove the exhaust at the header and put AAR Cuda stripes on it. we both envisioned is lowered, flat black, with about 22lbs of boost.

Interesting. Would have been real fun, especially if you kept the beater look.

BTW, the article I mentioned earlier is up - http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070108/BUSINESS05/101080017 - head on over to the survey it references and support the Omni if you like.

Rob

[csturboz]

Talked a friend into buyin a pile of shit 89 turbo voyager at a towing auction...

its now rests in a junkyard somewhere... he lost interest in it, pulled the engine and had it hauled away..

http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/2103/turbovanengine1dx0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/2616/turbovanzb0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/5558/evilminivannt3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[motorcityxj]

Talked a friend into buyin a pile of shit 89 turbo voyager at a towing auction...

its now rests in a junkyard somewhere... he lost interest in it, pulled the engine and had it hauled away..



http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/2616/turbovanzb0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)



were the turbo caravan/voyagers 5 speed manuals ?

THATS a sleeper looks like a total piece of shit! :laugh2: Turd brown factory paint, purple pep boys buble tint, and black steelies with the wheel cover missing. Thats the perfect sleeper so far, though i think i would still go for the galant vr4 with a nice turbo and more boost, or an equal to the van boring volvo 240 wagon with a SBC. I do like the dodge torbo fwd for what they are cheap easy to mod, makes decent torque, and its the anti-jap ricer for some uniquemness. But i really dont like FWD anything if i have a choice.

[Kittrell]

......he lost interest in it.......

I can't imagine why.....

[csturboz]

I can't imagine why.....

the trans went out...

[csturboz]

were the turbo caravan/voyagers 5 speed manuals ?

THATS a sleeper looks like a total piece of shit! :laugh2: Turd brown factory paint, purple pep boys buble tint, and black steelies with the wheel cover missing. Thats the perfect sleeper so far, though i think i would still go for the galant vr4 with a nice turbo and more boost, or an equal to the van boring volvo 240 wagon with a SBC. I do like the dodge torbo fwd for what they are cheap easy to mod, makes decent torque, and its the anti-jap ricer for some uniquemness. But i really dont like FWD anything if i have a choice.

Most of them were automatic.... I have one now in storage thats a 5 speed, super lightweight no option turd.

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/2552/dsc01295mk4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/7729/dsc01305vc1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[89Daytona]

Most of them were automatic.... I have one now in storage thats a 5 speed, super lightweight no option turd.

5 speed caravans are hard to come by. I have driven a 5 speed turbo diesel grand caravan (it was made for europe, but New Venture Gear had donated it to my college), the van was really powerful and fun to drive. I wish dodge had put turbo diesels in their US fwd cars...

[Shadowgames96XJ]

here's a sleeper car.... 90 Lincoln Mark VII, most people don't know much or anything about them, they have the drivetrain from a mustang, mine is supercharged, w/ full manual auto. 3.73's and a list of other go fast goodies on it.

[Chero-King]

Not exactly what you're looking for but..
1990 Ponitac Bonneville SSE.
Came with a 4spd, Auto, 3.8L V6.
Our old one was completely black, with the factory black mags and looked good for a family car. That thing surprised quite a few V8's.
Best part is, If you can find the supercharger off of the '93 and up models, combined with intake and exhaust upgrades your're looking at high 200's in the hp and tourque range, pretty good for a family sedan.
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/2/web/674000-674999/674760_14_full.jpg
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/2/web/674000-674999/674760_40_full.jpg
That isn't our old one, just one that I found on Cardomain
.

[motorcityxj]

Not exactly what you're looking for but..
1990 Ponitac Bonneville SSE.
3.8L V6 running 280 at the wheels, completely stock.
Our old one was completely black, with the factory black mags and looked good for a family car. That thing surprised quite a few V8's, and had the most power I've seen from a stock V6.
Best part is, If you can find the supercharger off of the '93 and up models, you're easily running 300+ horses.
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/2/web/674000-674999/674760_14_full.jpg
.

280 at the wheels in stock OE form ? I dont think so unless i wasnt paying attention to my car and drivers and motor trend etc when i was in middle school. The 3.8 is a GREAT engine, runs like a top, makes great torque, low maintaince, and long lived. That being said the supercharged late model 3.8 in the Riviera and park avenue ultra made 240 hp.

quick google search confirms it to me
this guy says his old 88 lss supercharged 3.8 makes 209 hp at the wheels. Very respectable 271 lbs feet though.

http://www.dragtimes.com/Oldsmobile-88-Timeslip-8682.html

[Chero-King]

I realized that and changed it. When we bought the car, we were informed that it made close to 280 at stock form, didn't quite believe it but, never actually checked until now. Thanks for catching me though.

[IXNAYXJ]

Behold, the ultimate sleeper:

From the factory-

0-60 in 4.9 seconds
176 mph top speed
Twin-turbo inline-6
377 hp
419 lb/ft
ZF 6-speed manual
Four doors

Any guesses?

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

Lotus Carlton aka Vauxhall Carlton aka Opel Lotus Omega

[IXNAYXJ]

Sounds like a BMW 335i, but the numbers don't sound right. And thats a coupe I believeGood guess!

Too bad it's wrong. :D I think you're right about the TT I-6 only being in the coupe.

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

Good guess!

Too bad it's wrong. :D I think you're right about the TT I-6 only being in the coupe.

-----Matt-----

^..........;)

[IXNAYXJ]

Very good!

http://www.channel4.com/4car/media/100-greatest/03-large/116-vauxhall-lotus-carlton.jpg

http://www.fantasycars.com/derek/cars/images/opel/lotusomega_1.jpg

Badass car, especially when you consider how old it is. Would you like yours in green, green, or green?

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

Very good!

http://www.channel4.com/4car/media/100-greatest/03-large/116-vauxhall-lotus-carlton.jpg

http://www.fantasycars.com/derek/cars/images/opel/lotusomega_1.jpg

Badass car, especially when you consider how old it is. Would you like yours in green, green, or green?

-----Matt-----

If you're colorblind you'd never know! Imperial Green might as well be black.

[IXNAYXJ]

If you're colorblind you'd never know! Imperial Green might as well be black.Yeah, it's tough to see it pictures, especially.

The Mercedes/Porsche 500E also came to mind. Another awesome bahn-burner from the '90 pairing a sports car company with a boring sedan. It's even more of a "sleeper" 'cause it looks sooo stock, but also not as quick as the Omega/Carlton.

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/1871/027my.jpg

-----Matt-----

[Kittrell]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Jeep1991/1048293008.jpg

'Nother good one, it's amazing what a new set of wheels can do for car. Though it gets some more points being that they made about 9,500 more of those and they made it to the US...............:guitar:

[Kittrell]

I'll take a '94 E500, k, thanks. For the unaware, its the same car, just renamed in '94 when it was revamped..........:D

www.AutoTrader.com/ATCarID/AT-C028398

[IXNAYXJ]

...and they made it to the USYeah, I've never seen an Omega over here. It probably wouldn't be too hard, but certainly not easy.

The Brits pulled a cool stunt at Goodwood this year that the term "sleeper" was designed for. They took a Ford Transit work van and swapped a Jaguar XJ200 running gear and motor into it, but left it looking totally stock, except for wheels. They even had a ladder rack on top, complete with ladders, McDonalds wrappers in the cab and cigerette butts.

The organizers didn't even know until the last second!

Here's a video. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYP3hB0KL5w)

-----Matt-----

[JBweld]

The Brits pulled a cool stunt at Goodwood this year that the term "sleeper" was designed for. They took a Ford Transit work van and swapped a Jaguar XJ200 running gear and motor into it, but left it looking totally stock, except for wheels. They even had a ladder rack on top, complete with ladders, McDonalds wrappers in the cab and cigerette butts.

The organizers didn't even know until the last second!
-----Matt-----

That's awesome. I also like the music that Ferrari was making as it went by in the video. I had to back it up and listen to it a couple times :)

[Beej]

Yeah, I've never seen an Omega over here. It probably wouldn't be too hard, but certainly not easy.

The Brits pulled a cool stunt at Goodwood this year that the term "sleeper" was designed for. They took a Ford Transit work van and swapped a Jaguar XJ200 running gear and motor into it, but left it looking totally stock, except for wheels. They even had a ladder rack on top, complete with ladders, McDonalds wrappers in the cab and cigerette butts.

The organizers didn't even know until the last second!

Here's a video. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYP3hB0KL5w)

-----Matt----- That's hilarious! I think I might be too embarrassed to drive around in that though...

:D

[manuelxj]

im looking in to makeing a 4door here soon once my xj isbuilt



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyhEv3kMMl0

[IXNAYXJ]

That's awesome. I also like the music that Ferrari was making as it went by in the video. I had to back it up and listen to it a couple times :)You're telling me! That's a '62-ish Ferrari 250 GTO you're referring to. I honestly believe that is the best sounding car ever produced. I was even thinking about starting a thread about it, well exhaust notes in general.

I was at the 2004 Monterey Historics and they had something like 34 out of 39 GTOs ever built. Incidentally, they're worth between $4,000,000 and $8,000,000, maybe even $10,000,000 for the 4.0 liter model. Start saving now...I know I have.

-----Matt-----

[Michaelarchangelo]

Do you think anyone would notice this one?

http://www.autocollections.com/image/cars/1986%20ford%20rs%20200%20evo%20f.jpg

[motorcityxj]

I realized that and changed it. When we bought the car, we were informed that it made close to 280 at stock form, didn't quite believe it but, never actually checked until now. Thanks for catching me though.

I wasnt busting yer balls, hope it didnt seem like that. i was never in a supercharged bonneville (just NA ones) but a few others like the park ave and the olds 88 lss kicked ass for what they were at the time. I would prefer a 5 speed sho or spirit rt over them(if i was choosing sleeper sedan domestics), but some buddies had them in highschool or their fathers did. Fun times, they definately had a throttle response which made them feel faster than they were. But like i said the buick 3.8 is a sweet engine. I would prefer it in a grand national, really tricked out and putting out somewhere like 575 hp or so. :cheers:

[casm]

Do you think anyone would notice this one?

http://www.autocollections.com/image/cars/1986%20ford%20rs%20200%20evo%20f.jpg

Ford RS200. Viciously quick little machine, and really cleaned up in rallying in the '80s. For my money, though, I'd take one of these:

http://www.citroen.mb.ca/citroenet/passenger-cars/psa/zx/images/zxrr3.jpg

Citroen ZX Rallye Raid (http://www.citroen.mb.ca/citroenet/sport/sport-90.html). Awesome cars; I remember watching them clean up on (IIRC) the Spanish and Moroccan rallyes in the '90s. Either one hardly qualifies as a sleeper, though ;)

[Michaelarchangelo]

Awesome cars; I remember watching them clean up on (IIRC) the Spanish and Moroccan rallyes in the '90s. Either one hardly qualifies as a sleeper, though ;)


Ya but how many people actually know what they are in the US? :D

[Begster]

You're telling me! That's a '62-ish Ferrari 250 GTO you're referring to. I honestly believe that is the best sounding car ever produced. I was even thinking about starting a thread about it, well exhaust notes in general.

I was at the 2004 Monterey Historics and they had something like 34 out of 39 GTOs ever built. Incidentally, they're worth between $4,000,000 and $8,000,000, maybe even $10,000,000 for the 4.0 liter model. Start saving now...I know I have.

-----Matt-----

I got a book of like the 100 greatest cars or something like that for Christmas a few years back. I think it was co-written by Jay Leno. But I was looking through it one time, and I came upon the Ferrari 250 GTO, and I absolutely fell in love with that thing. They started it off by saying it was probably one of the nicest and best looking cars ever. When I get home this weekend I'll look at it again, but it is an absolutely amazing car. I can't imagine what I would do if I had one.

[IXNAYXJ]

I can't imagine what I would do if I had one.Hopefully drive the ever loving shit out of it. It was really cool to see so many out on the track driving like mad men at the Historics in '04. :clap:

http://static.flickr.com/27/50731231_426fe1bed6_m.jpg

And if you really wany a RS 200 EVO, Bruce Canepa has one for sale. (http://www.canepa.com/inventory/collect/2669.html) 0-60 in just over 2 seconds.

http://www.canepa.com/inventory/collect/images/No.2669.jpg

-----Matt-----

[ghettocruiser]

Thirdgen firebird and camaros arent usually regarded as being that fast. And usually get picked as an easy target. Sure they are "sports cars"... but to 1980s standards. Slow for todays standards.

For instance...
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g221/jeepguy25/Clean%20Jasmine/DSCF0060.jpg

And this is what Im packing to prove otherwise....
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g221/jeepguy25/DSCF0126.jpg

Ive surprised more than a few guys with fast cars on the highway :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THMSMZjQrIw

Justin

[JBweld]

Nice LS swap!

[98XJSport]

Theres also the pontiac grand prix GTP, supercharged 3.8 looks exactly like a normal grand prix other than the obvious badging. Not sure of the power numbers though.

[IXNAYXJ]

Theres also the pontiac grand prix GTP, supercharged 3.8 looks exactly like a normal grand prix other than the obvious badging. Not sure of the power numbers though.240 hp, heavy and FWD.

-----Matt-----

[98XJSport]

Thats the one. Compared to the 195 horse base, however, could surprise you if thats not what you are expecting. Not a fast car by any means, but in my book that makes it a sleeper...

[93_xj]

GMC SyTy

[ChuckstrPT]

To help narrow ideas down, I'm thinking a mid to higher end Euro sedan or wagon.
Forgive me, but I didn't read all of these pages on the post, BUT...we had a '99 A4 Avant 1.8t 5spd, upgraded front brakes to 12.5", chipped, and Xenon headlights...for what I paid...it was da bomb. I'd still have it if I didn't have two kids! Just not enough room. Good for one kid, or one dog or so. It made 207h, 245 lbft. If you've got some money, look for an S4 of the generation, you start with 250hp and twin turbo V6. Or for more moollah, get a newer one with the V8, I think 304hp??? The Audi wagons are great sleepers....no one ever expects it to move!
Carry on.....:viking:

[CheapXJ]

1991 Audi 200 20v turbo quattro or 92-94 S4

20v Turbo 5-cyl for the win.

best sleeper EVAR

[G.Q. Jeeper]

This bad boy looks nasty!

ahaha

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgxnrMa49tw&NR

[Root Moose]

I kinda like that series of Ladas, kinda late 70s Fiat styling. A friend had one - he couldn't detroy it. Sure, the foo-foo stuff like trim peices and such fell off it regularly but drivetrain and body was pretty tough.

Fergie, Mercedes-Benz W123 with a SBC/SBF/SBD/pick-yer-poison would be pretty butch and a definite sleeper. Maybe even run an M-B donk if you aren't that attached to your money.

[Root Moose]

Just to give an idea of what a W123 can look like:

http://fxide.ca/content/images/m-b/w123/w123_lowrider.jpg

Picture it with some 50 series tires and ride height appropriate for "road racing". These cars also came as coupes and wagons. Produced from 1977-1985. It becomes readily apparent by looking inside one that all the "modern ergonomics" that new cars have were stolen from these cars. You wouldn't have to put up with much "old car quirkiness" sitting behind the wheel.

And they are cheap to purchase!

LS1 would be a good motivator.

:D

[casm]

I kinda like that series of Ladas, kinda late 70s Fiat styling. A friend had one - he couldn't detroy it. Sure, the foo-foo stuff like trim peices and such fell off it regularly but drivetrain and body was pretty tough.

I'll second this. I had a Riva 1500 in college for a bit that was an absolute tank. Slow and heavy, but pretty much indestructible. Replaced it with a Niva when I realised it wasn't quite going to cut it in winter where I was.

For a sleeper, you could always get a Riva, replace its engine with a de-smogged Fiat 2-litre twin-cam, build that up appropriately, and have a sleeper with major WTF? value. Ugly? Sure. Perfect candidate.

[bjoehandley]

Anybody ever see a Scion XB sleeper, I think I ran across the other night and the little Q-Ship damn near sunk my @$$ and I wasn't even trying to race it!:scared: :wow: :eek: :confused: :shiver: :(

[Kittrell]

I'd of definitely kept that one to myself.

[bjoehandley]

I'd of definitely kept that one to myself.


I figure it musta looked like a toaster was racing a tackle box to anybody who saw it:D

[98XJSport]

Im pretty sure TRD makes a factory supercharger kit for them...

[bjoehandley]

Sitting at the light it looked and sounded dead stock, right down to the steel wheels and plastic hub caps, I wasn't expecting it to get out of it's own way let along into mine.......................

[BBeach]

Im pretty sure TRD makes a factory supercharger kit for them...I saw one the other day with the pillar pods, possibly boost and it didnt sound stock. Theres gotta be some aftermarktet tuner for them ugly things. But knowing some of them drivers, he prolly had an analog clock and fuel gauge in his pillar pods. :looser:

[87manche]

speaking of:
http://dpcars.net/scion/index.htm
that guys crazy by the way, check out the little race car he designed and built himself.
AWD, near perfect weight distribution and a busa motor :)

[bjoehandley]

speaking of:
http://dpcars.net/scion/index.htm
that guys crazy by the way, check out the little race car he designed and built himself.
AWD, near perfect weight distribution and a busa motor :)


Tried watching the autocross video, bout makes you sea sick in the chicane, I thought the thing was going to start to go over!

[87manche]

yeah, did you see the picture of him lifting two wheels?
can't say he didn't drive the hell outta that little thing.
www.dpcars.net (http://www.dpcars.net) is the home page, I just noticed he doesn't have a link back to the dp1, as he calls it.

[motorcityxj]

just remembered an old oddball favorite. I saw a stockish regular mazda 323 a few days ago. They had turbo charged AWD version called the GTX.

http://home.hetnet.nl/~pzj70/matins_ode.jpg

earlier version
http://www.rimoftheworldrally.com/images/2002/parade/323_Parade.jpg

[Matthew Currie]

Just to give an idea of what a W123 can look like:

http://fxide.ca/content/images/m-b/w123/w123_lowrider.jpg

Picture it with some 50 series tires and ride height appropriate for "road racing". These cars also came as coupes and wagons. Produced from 1977-1985. It becomes readily apparent by looking inside one that all the "modern ergonomics" that new cars have were stolen from these cars. You wouldn't have to put up with much "old car quirkiness" sitting behind the wheel.

And they are cheap to purchase!

LS1 would be a good motivator.

:D

As a long time 123 owner (alas, my old 240D is now retired and about to be chopped up, but the 72 220D lives on) I can confirm that it's a very nice car to drive, and even a clapped-out old rustbucket 123 or 115 chassis has rough-road manners that put just about any other vehicle ever made to shame. I question whether wheel and ride height adjustments are called for. Put really good tires on it keep it a sleeper. I can pretty much guarantee that a plain old diesel third-world taxicab beater Merc with something like Michelin XVS tires will corner predictably at any speed it's capable of reaching, which means basically that if you are being followed on a twisty back road, you will not be caught.

[ChuckstrPT]

just remembered an old oddball favorite. I saw a stockish regular mazda 323 a few days ago. They had turbo charged AWD version called the GTX.

Hey,,
Who are you callin an "oddball"???? I almost bought one in '88. With a little tweakin, that thing could be Da Bomb!
(sidenote- purchased an '88 Suzuki Samurai instead...and thus began my journey through the 4wheelin world....14 years later, sold the Samurai, and have joined the "other" side with the XJ!)

[POSJ]

Get an Audi S4 twin turbo V-6 will smoke 5.0 mustangs all day and is still the luxury end of the spectrum.

[ChuckstrPT]

Get an Audi S4 twin turbo V-6 will smoke 5.0 mustangs all day and is still the luxury end of the spectrum.
Couldn't afford it (in '99) so we got an A4 WAGON with 1.8t and 5 spd. That was a heck of a fun WAGON! The Audi's would be the thinking man's sleeper...it was mine!

[XJRunner]

My dad built a sleeper. It's a 40 ford Woody with a fuel injected 351(i think)
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k260/DumpsterProductions/100_0722.jpg
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k260/DumpsterProductions/100_0720.jpg
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k260/DumpsterProductions/100_0719.jpg
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k260/DumpsterProductions/100_0725.jpg
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k260/DumpsterProductions/100_0726.jpg

[oo7ravisXJ]

^^^ thats awsome!

[Ghost]

To help narrow ideas down, I'm thinking a mid to higher end Euro sedan or wagon.
Get a BMW 540it I think it was. It is touring wagon. I had one and it would ride 100mph all day long. Here is one on ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/WAGON-GARAGE-KEPT-HIGH-PERFORMANCE-CLEAN-HWY-MILES_W0QQitemZ320094854478QQcategoryZ6008QQrdZ1QQ cmdZViewItem

[motorcityxj]

Get a BMW 540it I think it was. It is touring wagon. I had one and it would ride 100mph all day long. Here is one on ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/WAGON-GARAGE-KEPT-HIGH-PERFORMANCE-CLEAN-HWY-MILES_W0QQitemZ320094854478QQcategoryZ6008QQrdZ1QQ cmdZViewItem

:laugh3: i already recomended it. ;) though this thread is so long now i cant blame you for not reading it.

the 540i is the m5 for the years in the 1990s when there was no m5. They had the 80s m5, then brought it back around 1991/2 for a few years then killed it. I would almost rather have the subtleness of the 540i anyways. Just put on M5 wheels or cool aftermarket wheels as they had the BBS lace style wheel on the 540 i i really hated (kinda like the limited and cherokee country wheels in the early and mid 90s NASTY!). Its not a well known car outside BMW circles and you could get a 6 speed with the v8. You can find them 10-12 grand pretty easy.

[IXNAYXJ]

Get a BMW 540it I think it was. It is touring wagon. I had one and it would ride 100mph all day long. Here is one on ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/WAGON-GARAGE-KEPT-HIGH-PERFORMANCE-CLEAN-HWY-MILES_W0QQitemZ320094854478QQcategoryZ6008QQrdZ1QQ cmdZViewItemThat body style never had the a V-8 in it; the car you're talking about is a 2.5 Liter I-6...pretty gutless with a lot of weight to haul around. There was a V-8/6-speed combo available in 1995, but it was only offered in a sedan.

In the following body style you could get a wagon with the 4.4 V-8 and even a 6-speed manual, thought the prices on those cars are still pretty high.

-----Matt-----

[motorcityxj]

That body style never had the a V-8 in it; the car you're talking about is a 2.5 Liter I-6...pretty gutless with a lot of weight to haul around. There was a V-8/6-speed combo available in 1995, but it was only offered in a sedan.

In the following body style you could get a wagon with the 4.4 V-8 and even a 6-speed manual, thought the prices on those cars are still pretty high.

-----Matt-----



$9,999 http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?rdpage=thumb&car_id=219517582&dealer_id=1182375&car_year=1997&model=540I&num_records=&make2=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=used&distance=0&make=BMW&color=&min_price=50&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=48236&advanced=&end_year=1997&doors=&transmission=&max_price=20000&cardist=1970

$13,600
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=213100646&dealer_id=58980299&car_year=1997&num_records=&model=540I&make2=&start_year=1994&engine=&keywordsrep=&keywordsfyc=&certified=&fuel=&body_code=0&search_type=used&distance=0&first_record=26&make=BMW&color=&min_price=50&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=48236&advanced=&end_year=1997&pager.offset=25&transmission=&doors=&max_price=20000&cardist=32

$12,900
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=219191403&dealer_id=500242&car_year=1997&model=540I&num_records=&make2=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=used&distance=0&first_record=51&make=BMW&color=&min_price=50&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=48236&advanced=&end_year=1997&pager.offset=50&doors=&transmission=&max_price=20000&cardist=8

$12,900 ONLY 81K miles http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=218492872&dealer_id=59668897&car_year=1997&model=540I&num_records=&make2=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=used&distance=0&first_record=51&make=BMW&color=&min_price=50&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=48236&advanced=&end_year=1997&pager.offset=50&doors=&transmission=&max_price=20000&cardist=238

$12,500 only 83k miles
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=204849250&dealer_id=58073802&car_year=1997&model=540I&num_records=&make2=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=used&distance=0&first_record=51&make=BMW&color=&min_price=50&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=48236&advanced=&end_year=1997&pager.offset=50&doors=&transmission=&max_price=20000&cardist=1133

$12,500 only 89k miles http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=217104909&dealer_id=59491563&car_year=1997&model=540I&num_records=&make2=&start_year=1994&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=used&distance=0&first_record=51&make=BMW&color=&min_price=50&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=48236&advanced=&end_year=1997&pager.offset=50&doors=&transmission=&max_price=20000&cardist=465


i saw one for sale at a lot here in detroit for $11,000 that was mint with 94k miles.

they are a great deal!

those were just the 6 speeds. If he can stomach an auto or wants one he can get a 120k mile unit for $5,500-$6,000

[jforse]

Here was my sleeper. 1997 Eagle Talon Tsi. 568whp. Only got it to run a 11.8@122. I'm a bad driver! :tear:

Forced Performance FP 3065 built for a T3 Manifold
South Florida Performance T3 Manifold
DSM Link to tune
850cc injectors
24" x 12.5" x 3" Spearco core with custom end-tanks and short rout pipes
Baer Big brakes (corvette c4 brakes)
Two Supra Fuel pumps
HKS 272 cams
Lots of head work
1st gen 6-bolt block
welded center diff
front and rear limited slip

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/jforse/talon.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/jforse/talonbrakes.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/jforse/talonengine.jpg