1984 Hurst/Olds: $35,000 Lightning on Wheels?
▼ Summary
– The Lightning Rod shifter in a Hurst/Olds vehicle features three levers for sequential shifting with its four-speed automatic transmission.
– The Renault R5 Turbo 2 has been seen multiple times at the Best of France and Italy car show in Van Nuys, Southern California.
– The Renault received a 93% ‘No Dice’ vote, making it unlikely to be showcased at the show due to its $175,000 price.
The 1984 Hurst/Olds commands attention with its distinctive Lightning Rod shifter, a unique three-lever setup designed for sequential-style shifting through its four-speed automatic transmission. This feature transforms the driving experience into something both quirky and memorable, blending performance with a touch of theatrical flair. But does this nostalgic piece of American automotive engineering justify the seller’s current asking price?
They often say you should either aim high or not bother at all. Paul McCartney once pondered, “Why don’t we do it in the road?” Last Friday’s spotlight fell on the 1985 Renault R5 Turbo 2, a vehicle whose bold, rally-inspired design certainly lived up to that adventurous spirit. Built for competition, it delivered thrilling performance on pavement, loose gravel, and unpaved trails alike.
Having spent time in Southern California, I’ve been fortunate to encounter that very Renault R5 Turbo on multiple occasions. It has made appearances at the annual Best of France and Italy car show, a Van Nuys tradition held each autumn. For those planning to be near Los Angeles in early November, the event makes its return on Sunday, November 2. The gathering will once again take place at its familiar location, the expansive green fields of Woodley Park in the Sepulveda Basin. With an asking price of $175,000, however, it seems unlikely many of us will be showcasing the Renault there anytime soon. That possibility looks even slimmer considering the model received a decisive 93% “No Dice” rating in the recent poll.
(Source: JALOPNIK)
