New Zealand Classic Car 384, December 2022
$11.99 NZD
Destined to become one of the fastest cars never to win Bathurst, Chrysler’s Charger was nevertheless New Zealand’s most successful standard production racing saloon, winning the annual Benson and Hedges 500 seven years in a row from 1972 to 1978.
In the 1970s, distinctively styled Charger coupes attracted a group of talented New Zealand drivers, who used them to great effect, dominating local motor racing. The list of successful drivers reads like a who’s who of the New Zealand motoring elite. It remains an oddity of the era that the Charger was notably less successful on Australian tracks.
Moving forward a few decades, German car manufacturer, Porsche, needed a car to hold the fort after the demise of the 944 and before the launch of the Boxster, which makes the three-litre, four-cylinder 968 a relatively rare beast — we were fortunate to get our hands on two fine examples.
We also couldn’t resist featuring the superb Lexus LS400, a car that defined luxury, boasting unparalleled comfort, refinement, and smoothness of power.
As a new monarch ascends the throne, we look back over our history of royal tours and the suitably regal transport that has played a significant role in strengthening the bond between New Zealanders and their royal family.
Plus much, much more enjoyable reading.
