Auto Almanac

2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet: The popular Mercedes-Benz E-Class currently consists of a four-door sedan and a two-door coupe, however, a new a soft-top model will show up this spring, replacing the now-defunct CLK-class version. Among the car's many unique features is an air cap, which is essentially a wind-deflecting spoiler that extends from atop the windshield frame. The idea is to cut down on air turbulence inside the cabin. Expect a starting price of about $65,000.

You Auto Know

n The list of automotive inventions credited to women includes the carburetor, windshield wiper and electric starter.

n Power door locks first appeared on a number of luxury cars in 1956, two years before the introduction of the day/night rearview mirror.

Who am I?

To guess his secret identity, read the following clues:

1) Although an actor by profession, he always had a keen interest in auto racing. He was born in 1929.

2) He got the chance to drive in the 1966 movie that featured Grand Prix (Formula One) action where he was as good as some of the pro drivers on set.

3) In 1971, he was cast in "Nichols," a TV series about a 1900s sheriff who rode a motorcycle instead of a horse.

4) In a long-lasting TV role (six seasons), he played a Firebird-driving private detective.

ANSWER: In his life off the big screen, James Garner was involved auto racing to the point where he formed his own team.

eBay watch

1960 Mercury Commuter station wagon, 46 bids, sold for $18,600.

Fifty-year-old station wagons are rare finds, but what makes this Mercury unique is that it's a four-door hardtop (no pillar between the front and rear doors). The car also came loaded with air conditioning, roof rack and power windows (including a power tailgate window). The 312-cubic-inch V-8 was one of the stronger-running engines in Ford's fleet. Considering the Mercury's excellent condition, the price paid was more than fair. Visit www.ebaymotors.com.

Top Gear

Bullitt Mustang, $195, Franklin Mint, www.franklinmint.com, 800-843-6468. You've bought the DVD and played the nine-minute chase scene over and over and now you can have a die-cast model of the green 1968 Mustang driven by the late Steve McQueen (aka Frank Bullitt) in the movie "Bullitt." This 7.75-inch-long model from the Franklin Mint is highly detailed and comes with McQueen's authorized signature on top of the trunk lid.

-- Wheelbase Communications