True stars

Classic cars are considered classics for a reason. We look at some iconic hotties that have be reimagined for 2016

CASEY WILLIAMS  | Auto Reviewer

We use the term “star” too much. Celebrities come and go (a draw today becomes yesterday’s tabloid trash), but true stars endure while evolving their style. They’re classic hotties.
The same is true of automobiles — including this troupe of rides. (Of course, the biggest stars command the highest asking prices … but there are some values to be found.)
Chevrolet Camaro. Camaro goes from edgy to smooth, but still brings it with a 275hp turbo-four, 335hp V6, and 455 6.2-liter V8 engines connected to 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmissions. A sophisticated-feeling interior employs Chevrolet’s updated MyLink infotainment system. Really let your hair fly with the available convertible. Base price: $23,705.
Mazda MX-5 Miata. If a classic roadster gets you stoked, you’ll crave the new Miata. Sexier than ever, the car would be killer to weave down California’s PCH. Rev the 155 horsepower four-cylinder engine that achieves 27/34-MPG city/hwy. Get it with lane departure warning, blind spot assist alert, rear cross traffic assist and Bose audio. Flip the top, grab a gear and enjoy. Base price: $24,915.
Ram Rebel. If you like ’em butch and beefy — a cross between a Power Wagon and ’Lil Red Truck — get this. Rebel boasts skid plates, tow hooks and air suspension that can increase ride height. RAM black grille, red and black seats with tire tread pattern and aluminum snorkel hood are fab. Get this 4×4 with a 305hp V6 or 395hp HEMI. Bilstein off-road shocks are standard. Base price: $42,790.

Ford Shelby GT350. First introduced in 1965, the GT350 cradles a 526 horsepower 5.2-liter V8. Performance is enhanced by adjustable MagneRide suspension, 5 driving modes, and lift-reducing hood heat extractor. You can even tune the exhaust note. Step up to the GT350R for a stripped ripper with carbon fiber wheels. It’s all so sexy. Base price: $47,795.

Jaguar F-Type R AWD. Mad men deploy flush doorhandles before slipping past the E-Type inspired style with oval grille, long sculpted hood and rear haunches drawn tight. Soft leather, suede, glass roof and 770W Meridian audio define the interior. Crack the 550 horsepower supercharged V8 for a real mind-blow. 15/23-MPG city/hwy seems frugal. Base price: $103,600 (R AWD), $65,000 (base coupe).
Mercedes-AMG GT-S. Gaze at the rump, then it’s long… ummmm, hood. Then deploy the spoiler to get busy. Slide into firmly-bolstered heated Nappa leather seats and crank Bermester audio. Its 4.0-liter Biturbo V8 dispenses 503 horsepower and 16/22-MPG city/hwy. Drivers can configure the car for Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Race. Press the exhaust button to wake Elvis. Base price: $129,900.

Acura NSX. Reviving a revered supercar, this hybrid runs with a mid-mounted V6 engine and electric motor-based AWD. Throw in batteries, and you’re looking at 550 horses; ride it in Quiet all-electric mode or full-on Track mode. Either way, it’s sexy as hell and packin’ technology. Production commences this fall. Base price (est): $150,000.

Rolls-Royce Dawn. Britain’s crown jewel offers a smaller convertible. Based on the Wraith coupe, Dawn is both sleek and traditional with recessed Parthenon grille, boat-tail rear taper, teak tonneau, perfect hides and book-matched veneers. The fabric roof raises/lowers in 22s. Owners will revel in the 6.6-liter twin-turbo V-12. The Flying Lady never ages. Base price (est): $350,000.

This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition November 6, 2015.