Dacco B29dclf Torque Converter on 2040-parts.com

Detroit convention center to get upgrades for auto show

For now, the Motor City will retain its spot on the calendar of international auto shows, as plans to upgrade the aging convention center where it's held annually will move forward. A $300 million deal to renovate and expand the nearly 50-year-old Cobo Center in Detroit is set to proceed after an Aug. 1 deadline to scuttle the plan passed without opposition from local officials.

Year-end discounts on 2012 models

Dealerships are working to get rid of the remaining 2012 models as the year comes to an end, so there are plenty of incentives on 2012 cars, pickups and SUVs. Here are our picks for the best deals: Chrysler 300 Chrysler is offering up to $5,500 cash back to buyers of select 2012 Chrysler 300 models. The most steeply discounted models include both the rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive versions of the 300C, 300C Luxury Series and 300S V8, as well as the 300S Mopar 12 rear-wheel-drive model.

1960 Maserati Birdcage to cross the block at Mecum Monterey auction

Mecum Auctions is touting a 1960 Maserati Tipo 61/60 sports racer--a “Birdcage” series original--as part of its high-profile lineup for its Monterey sale this summer. The 1960 Maserati Tipo 61/60 Birdcage stands for a creative streak in Maserati's design. It was originally built for legendary Le Mans racer Briggs Cunningham, now a member of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, and competed at Sebring in 1960.