If cars could be ranked in order of not MPG, but in SPG – stares per gallon – you might be hard-pressed to top the Zimmer Golden Spirit.
Born as a sketch on a napkin and produced for a decade from 1978 through 1988, the Zimmer blended neo-classic styling with contemporary Ford Mustang mechanical underpinnings. It was an idea that paid off for Paul Zimmer and his son Bob; at its peak in the 1980s, Zimmer Motorcars generated $25 million in annual revenue.
The Pick of the Day is a 1984 Zimmer Golden Spirit, the flagship model, showing just 42,000 miles on its odometer. The Golden Spirit used not only the 302 cid V8 from the Ford Mustang but the entire Mustang chassis, albeit in a modified format to accommodate custom bodywork.
The private seller in Morris, Alabama, advertising the Zimmer on ClassicCars.com states that the engine has been mechanically refreshed with recent maintenance, including spark plugs, water pump, thermostat, bypass hose, coolant temperature sensor, micro belt and alternator replaced within the past 600 miles. The car also wears new tires and has upgraded air conditioning, the seller notes.
Cosmetically, this Zimmer looks well-preserved. The maroon leather interior appears to be in good condition and all exterior chrome has been refinished, the seller says, resulting in a look that’s about as new as it can get for being 36 years old.
“This car can be a show car or one to drive every day,” the seller statets. “This car is definitely an attention getter.”
To many, the Golden Spirit evokes thoughts of the Disney antagonist from 101 Dalmatians, Cruella de Vil, who drove a similarly-styled model in the film.
That could be one reason at least that this 1980s relic would get more stares than an exotic supercar. And for $24,900, it costs a lot less than one.
To check out this Golden Spirit, visit the listing on ClassicCars.com.
Nice now how you get spinner caps off the wheels? Flat nonspinner knob to tap!