Posts

Random # 134: Mazda RX6 ???

Image
As far as UMPH knows, there was never any such thing as a Mazda RX6 .  Google doesn't seem to think they exist, either, and, if confirmation were required, neither does Wikipedia.   However, if there were such a beast, the RX6 would almost certainly have been based on the 626 like the one featured here, the logic being that the first rotary-powered Mazda readily available in Australia was the R100 , which shared its body with the 1000 coupe of that time.  It was followed by the Capella -based RX2 in both coupe and sedan styles; the RX3 , with its two- and four-door bodies common to the 808 ; and the RX4 and RX5 which were more or less a rotary-engined 929 s (two distinct versions, though, with the later RX5 being coupe only).   Chronologically, the next step would seem to have been a 626 -based RX6 .  Adding weight to the theory is that the 626 had both a coupe and a sedan in its range, following the precedent set from the RX2 on (and even the R...

Readers' Photos # 9: Dodge Tourer at Ross

Image
These absolutely beautiful photos of a Dodge Tourer were sent in by Karen of the Post Vintage Car Club of Tasmania and were taken by her son, Joel, on the day of the 2017 Picnic at Ross.  The fallen autumn leaves make a lovely carpet while the historic township of Ross, with its oak tree-lined streets, colonial architecture and early style street lights, is the perfect backdrop for the magnificent car.        U M P H (uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot.com.au.)

Random # 133: Mustang Convertible

Image
What is there to say about this gorgeous 1960s Mustang convertible, photographed at Bellerive's Kangaroo Bay quay on a sunny autumn day?  Nothing, really ; the car speaks for itself - especially the magnificent embossed 'pony' details on the front seats.  U M P H (uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot,com.au.) All iPhone images.

Random # 132: Early XJ Jaguar

Image
What's not to love about this big, elegant early XJ Jaguar, photographed outside David Short's workshop in Elizabeth Street, North Hobart?  Its classic British lines were complemented very nicely by the  Superlite wheels seen below, while its glossy duco, glittering chrome and sumptuous interior gave the car an aura of timeless beauty. U M P H (uppermiddlepetrolkhead.blogspot.com.au.) All iPhone images.

Random # 131: Datsun 1600 (P510)

Image
This excellent Datsun 1600 was spotted in North Hobart on an uncommonly balmy and pleasant early winter's day, having just participated in some action at Tasmania's southern circuit, Baskerville Raceway.  Its blue and red on white livery was reminiscent of 1970s / 80s Datsun competition colours, while the full roll cage, racing seats, black alloys shod with semi-track rubber, drilled discs and rorty induction / exhaust note made it clear that it was the real deal.  Nice!     U M P H (uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot.com.au.) All iPhone images.

Random # 130: XL Falcon Ute

Image
The older the car, the fewer of them you're likely to see about.  Not early Ford Falcons, like the immaculate black XL ute pictured here, it seems!  There are at least three three similar era sedans in and around Hobart, as well as a two or three coupes, a rare left-hand drive convertible, another ute and a really tidy green station wagon.  The only variant that UMPH hasn't seen, however, is a van but that's not to say there isn't one somewhere in Tasmania's south. The ute featured here is, quite simply, perfect.  The paint, panels and chrome were all first rate - probably better than new.  There just wasn't a flaw to be seen ; even the interior looked brand new.  It easily rivals the gorgeous yellow XM version seen in Lakes Entrance, Victoria, and featured in Random # 58: XM Falcon Ute ( http://uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot.com.au/2016/10/random-58-xm-falcon-ute.html ). Fans of early Falcons could do worse than check out a few of the fo...

Readers' Photos # 10 (Special 'Brown Label' Edition): HQ Holden Wagon from Over the Ditch

Image
This classic poo-brown HQ "floater" wagon comes via international correspondents Matt & Marita, who were holidaying in Nelson, New Zealand.  Love the bucket hat!  The car's pretty cool, too!! U M P H (uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot.co.au) iPhone or maybe Samsung Galaxy image.