bri j wrote:

> Second, the first time we took the car out and drove it hard, when we
> got on the interstate, hitting 55-65 mph, there was a lot of bluish
> smoke. Haven't noticed any since that time.

Just clearing out the cobwebs

> Third, after driving for a bit, there is usually a weird smell from the
> front/driver's side area of the engine - haven't noticed it anywhere
> else but you can't miss it, either, when you step out of the driver's
> side. I don't think it smells like oil burning but I could be wrong,
> boyfriend thought it smelled like clutch (possibly caused by the
> grinding/third gear?).

Perhaps the right front brake?
Drive up to a mechanic, they will be able to tell you what it is
straight away.

Also, try posting in rec.autos.tech, you will get better answers