Matt Rich 2001 Chevy Silverado: “The truck is a complete country boys dream. It really means a lot to me because of all of the hard work that I had to do to get it, from working two jobs and spending a lot of money. It’s finally that dream truck I’ve always wanted.” The modifications on Matt’s truck from a shop and himself include a Ranchero 6’’ lift kit, American racing wheels, tow mirrors and lots of aftermarket lights. Recently the whole truck has been restored by a shop in Melrose Park with all of the rust cut out and new metal welded in and finished in a glossy piano black finish. The truck is extremely useful for towing and carrying cargo, and it’s also unstoppable off-road. With all of the pieces added and the restoration complete, this truck will last Matt for forever, which is a good thing because it’s never going up for sale.

Erik Siddons 1988 Mazda RX-7:  “I love this car, it’s about just as fast as a Prius but looks just as exotic as a Ferrari. Every time I get in the car I always have a smile on my face knowing that it’s my money pit.” This FC RX-7 has extensive engine work done to it by the previous owner with a rebuilt and street ported 13B naturally aspirated rotary engine, racing beat headers connected to a full 3’’ straight pipe, and a K sport radiator. The suspension hasn’t been left alone either as fresh Ksport coilovers and new bushings were installed to make it planted on the road. The rotary rev’s to an astounding 9,000 rpm’s and gleefully shoots flames after you let off of the gas pedal. This car is already a classic with people both young and old staring at it in bewilderment. The truth is once a rotary works its way into your heart, you’ll never be able to get it out.

Anthony Baron 2007 Saturn Astra: “For a little hatchback this car is super fun to drive. The stiff suspension gives great feedback through the steering wheel and the car always lets me know before It starts to lose traction.” This rare and unique hot hatchback is actually a rebadged Vauxhall Astra from Europe, making it somewhat unknown to the average American car enthusiast. They made 138 horsepower from the small 1.8-liter engine making it ideal to autocross. The low horsepower and super light weight make it a great car for first-time drivers to learn basic car control and how to wrench on a vehicle. Anthony so far has replaced the transmission, clutch, pressure plate, clutch master cylinder, and tie rods; all in his driveway. This car is the unsung hero of this list because it can outrun most cars on the racetrack, is unique, and costs a fraction of the price.

Zach Melchiore 1995 S14 Nissan 240sx: “For the price I paid I couldn’t have gotten a car that’s more fun for the money. The car is loud, low and extremely fun to drive. Every single time that I get behind the wheel, there’s always a smile on my face.” The Nissan 240sx doesn’t need an introduction, everyone who knows about this legendary JDM machine knows what it’s capable of. High School students have been sliding these cars for years, especially at York. In past years, students have had these cars and learned how to swap engines and everything in between on them. This 1995 S14 has your typical drifting modifications already done to it by the previous owner and Zach himself. It naturally has a welded differential, 3’’ full straight pipe and function form type 2 coilovers to make it nice and level when it’s bouncing off the rev limiter sideways through a corner. The stock KA24de purrs, and the manual transmission with a short throw shifter makes the car a pleasure to drive. The gears are direct and smooth, and at 7,000 rpm’s the KA screams like a banshee. Anyone even remotely interested in cars will become lifelong enthusiasts after owning one of these.