Auto Almanac

Drawing Board

2012 Morgan EvaGT 2+2: One of England's oldest automakers has announced it will build a modern high-performance sports car. The aluminum-bodied, four-seat Morgan EvaGT will use a BMW-built 306-horsepower 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine connected to either a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic. Morgan claims a zero-to-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 170 mph for its 2,750-pound creation. EvaGT production begins in mid-2012 and will be limited to 100 units. Pricing is expected to be in the $175,000 range.

You Auto Know

n The first drive-through bank opened in Los Angeles in 1937.

n In 1895, the American Motor League became the world's first auto club open to the public.

eBay watch

1959 Volvo PV544, six bids, sold, $3,900: The 1940s-Ford-styled PV-series helped establish Volvo as a constructor of safe and reliable cars. This early 544 (the line began in 1958) features an electrical system that has been upgraded to 12 volts from six and a more powerful four-cylinder engine lifted from a 1966 Volvo P1800 sports car. Other mechanical parts have been replaced or upgraded, however the interior required a complete makeover. Pristine PV544s easily fetch upwards of $12,000, making this no-reserve purchase seem fair.

Visit www.ebaymotors.com.