Welcome to this week’s combined edition of Backfire News, Modern Car Collector, and The Auto Wire — your all-access pass to car culture, collector insights, and industry updates.

Backfire News

Dodge Viper Removed From 30-Foot Pole at Kentucky Dealership After 28 Years, Found With Mold and Bird Nest
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​A 1996 Dodge Viper RT/10 that sat atop a 30-foot pole outside Audubon Chrysler in Kentucky for nearly 28 years was recently brought down for inspection and restoration, revealing unexpected deterioration inside the vehicle. The car, first hoisted into the air in May 1996 as part of a marketing display, had become a local landmark and had only been lowered once before, in 2009.

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Modern Car Collector

Barn Find Treasures Unearthed After Years of Long-Term Storage Come to Auction
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​The words “Barn Find” mean a lot to a car collector. In case you’re not familiar, the phrase usually refers to a diamond in the rough kind of car or something that has been sequestered away. It presents the next owner with the opportunity to restore this car back to its original glory and then enjoy it as they please. Everyone loves hidden treasure, right?

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The Auto Wire

Ford Makes Frunk a $495 Option on 2026 Mustang Mach-E​
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Ford is no longer including a front trunk as standard equipment on the 2026 Mustang Mach-E, instead making the feature a $495 option across all four trims. The front trunk, commonly referred to as a frunk, had previously been included with the electric SUV.

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Featured Amazon Find

EPAuto Waterproof Car Trash Can with Lid and Storage Pockets, 2.5 Gallon, Black
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​Keep your interior as clean as your build. This 2.5-gallon waterproof car trash can keeps clutter under control with a leak-proof lining and secure lid to lock in messes and odors. The adjustable strap makes it easy to hang from a headrest, console, or seatback, while the extra side storage pockets give you space for wipes, bags, or small accessories. Durable, compact, and road-trip ready — it’s a simple upgrade that keeps daily drivers and collector cars looking their best.

​Buy Here​

Featured Merch

“Curb Hoppin’” Funny Tee
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For those who treat parking blocks like mild suggestions. The “Curb Hoppin’” tee is a tongue-in-cheek nod to every driver who’s ever misjudged a turn-in, mounted a curb, or sent it just a little too confidently. Whether you’re a track-day hero, Cars & Coffee regular, or just someone with a heavy right foot, this shirt lets everyone know you’ve got stories.

​Buy Here​

Thanks for being part of our community of passionate drivers, collectors, and automotive insiders.

Stay driven,
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​Backfire News | Modern Car Collector | The Auto Wire​