Electric Cars

An extraordinary automotive revelation has emerged from Alabama: a colossal private collection of over 1,300 classic vehicles, meticulously gathered by Greg Rusk over decades, is now set to find new owners. Housed in various discreet locations, this trove of motoring history, affectionately termed 'The Generous Collection,' is regarded as one of the most significant 'barn finds' in American history. Auto enthusiasts and collectors will have an unprecedented chance to bid on these machines, as the entire inventory will be offered without reserve through Hagerty Marketplace, beginning in October 2025.

Alabama's Hidden Gem: The Extensive 'Generous Collection' of Classic Automobiles Heads to Auction

In a discovery that has ignited excitement among classic car aficionados, a sprawling collection of over 1,300 vintage vehicles, assembled by one dedicated individual, Greg Rusk, in Alabama, is now being unveiled to the public. This monumental 'barn find,' considered the largest of its kind in the state, encompasses a breathtaking array of automotive history. Among the treasures are 259 Chevrolets, 109 Fords, 105 Cadillacs, and 96 Pontiacs, alongside a selection of 55 Mopars, 48 Lincolns, 35 Buicks, 24 Oldsmobiles, and 12 Volkswagen Beetles. The collection also boasts rare international models, including Alfa Romeos and Porsches, many of which have been carefully preserved indoors, while others have endured the elements of the Alabama landscape.

This unparalleled inventory will be made available through a series of no-reserve auctions via Hagerty Marketplace, starting with an initial offering of 200 cars and trucks in October 2025. Notable vehicles in the collection include a 1953 Jaguar XK120 Roadster, which previously fetched $165,000, a scarce 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe, and a 1995 Pontiac Firebird SLP Firehawk, one of only 671 produced. The diverse assortment also features intriguing anomalies like a King Midget Model III microcar and a modified 1986 Mazda RX-7 equipped with an LS1 engine swap.

This release of 'The Generous Collection' is more than just a sale; it's a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide to acquire vehicles that have been off the market for generations. The no-reserve format ensures that every car will be sold, offering a unique chance for both seasoned collectors to expand their prized possessions and for new enthusiasts to discover a piece of automotive heritage, potentially at an accessible price. This event underscores the enduring allure of classic cars and the dedication of collectors who preserve these mechanical masterpieces for future generations.

This significant event serves as a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication that fuels the classic car community. The emergence of such a vast, carefully curated collection offers an extraordinary opportunity to delve into automotive history and appreciate the diverse engineering and design marvels of past eras. For many, it's not just about owning a piece of history, but about preserving the stories and craftsmanship embedded within each vehicle. The sheer scale and variety of this collection underscore the rich tapestry of the automotive world and the enduring human connection to these iconic machines.

My initial impressions of the Honda Civic were quite varied, balancing appreciation for its classic elements like manual transmission options and agile handling with a slight dissatisfaction regarding its often-perceived conventionality. The 2026 Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid promised to bridge this gap, integrating the brand's well-known dynamic road manners with the refined comforts expected from a premium trim vehicle. My goal was to ascertain if this model truly embodies the 'sport,' 'touring,' and 'hybrid' designations.

A week-long test drive, encompassing diverse conditions from urban traffic to scenic coastal routes on Vancouver Island, provided comprehensive insights. The vehicle's 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, delivering 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, unequivocally affirmed its hybrid credentials. The exterior received significant improvements in its eleventh generation, moving away from aggressive lines to a more elegant and sophisticated aesthetic, enhanced by specific Sport Touring elements such as 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, and gloss-black accents. Inside, the Sport Touring package elevates the cabin with leather-trimmed seating, a premium Bose sound system, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control, creating an environment that feels both sophisticated and functional, despite not being overtly luxurious. The thoughtful ergonomic design, including intuitive controls and a clear digital gauge cluster, contributed to a highly satisfying user experience, complemented by practical features like generous cargo space.

On the road, the Civic Hybrid demonstrated exceptional versatility. Its suspension masterfully absorbed road imperfections while maintaining a firm feel that communicated precise control, allowing for confident cornering akin to more performance-oriented Civic models. This hybrid variant surprisingly outperformed the Civic Si in acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, thanks to its instant low-end torque. The vehicle excelled in daily driving, offering a quiet, smooth ride free from the common jerkiness found in some competitors, making urban commutes significantly less arduous. Its impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 49 MPG combined, alongside an observed average of 43.5 MPG during testing, highlights its efficiency. Priced starting at $29,295 for the Sport Hybrid and $32,295 for the Sport Touring Hybrid, it stands as a more expensive option compared to rivals like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Hyundai Elantra Hybrid. However, its superior horsepower and engaging driving dynamics offer compelling value for enthusiasts seeking a balanced and enjoyable daily driver.

The 2026 Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid adeptly fuses comfort and performance, carving out a unique position in its segment. It represents a forward-thinking approach to automotive design and engineering, proving that practicality and spirited driving can coexist harmoniously. This vehicle is more than just a means of transport; it's a testament to Honda's commitment to innovation and driver satisfaction, inspiring a new standard for everyday sedans.