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Keith Martin’s
The Insider’s Guide to Collecting, Investing, Values, and Trends
February 2016 . Volume 28 . Number 2
FERRARI
PROFILES
This Month’s
Market Movers
Up Close
ENGLISH
by Paul Hardiman 68
1964 Ferrari 250 GT/L Berlinetta Lusso
$1,975,483 / RM Sotheby’s
A fair deal for all the logical reasons
ETCETERINI
by Donald Osborne
72
108
1935 Aston Martin Ulster 2/4-Seater
$1,142,377 / Bonhams
Savvy buyer scores a deal on a rare original
GERMAN
by Pierre Hedary
74
1966 Maserati Sebring 3.7 Coupe
$307,058 / Bonhams
A well-cared-for car rides a rising tide
AMERICAN
by Dale Novak 76
132
2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
$407,000 / Motostalgia
The electronics may prove costly later
RACE
by Paul Hardiman 78
1972 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible
$77,500 / Auctions America
Rarity, options and a top resto raise the price
NEXT GEN
by Chad T 80yson
144
122
by Steve Ahlgrim 66
AUCTIONS
What Sold, and Why
207 Vehicles Rated at Six Sales
86
98
BONHAMS
Ebeltoft, DNK: A focused
collection of pre-war
coachbuilt classics brings
$21m, and 43 of 49 lots
hammer sold — Paul Hardiman
H&H
Duxford, U.K.: A 1960 Ferrari
250 GT SWB brings $11.4m,
pulling totals to $21.4m, with 93
of 145 cars sold
— Paul Hardiman
RM SOTHEBY’S
Hershey, PA: Pre-war classics
and Brass Era motorcars ring
the bell, with 143 of 149 lots
sold for $16m total
— Chuck Hoffman
SILVERSTONE
Oxfordshire, U.K.: 35 out of 62
cars sell for $7.6m, ’80s cars
hold strong, and a 1968 Aston
Martin DB6 Vantage Volante
tops all at $1.4m
— Paul Hardiman
BONHAMS
Beaulieu, U.K.: A barn-find
1929 Bentley 4½ Litre saloon
goes for $1m, 98 of 116
cars find new owners and
combined sales total $5.3m
— Paul Hardiman
DRAGONE
Westport, CT: Sales total $2.5m
when 25 out of 57 lots hammer
sold, including a $396k 1947
Lancia Aprilia prototype
— Adam Blumenthal
acebook
and look for updates and offers!
1956 Fiat-Bartoletti Tipo 306 Transporter
$1,012,824 / Bonhams
Priceless Shelby, Scarab, McQueen history
18
1996 Subaru Impreza WRC97 Rally Car
$238,413 / H&H
A Subaru for high-end collectors
Cover photo: 1958 Porsche 356A Speedster;
David Tomaro
Sports Car Market
Page 18
COLUMNS
22 Shifting Gears
The Keno Brothers’ first auction, the reborn Petersen Automotive
Museum, and Jerry Seinfeld takes issue with us over his 356A
Speedster
Keith Martin
44 Affordable Classic
Although the Fiat 850 Spider pushed from the rear wheels,
it never pushed very hard
Jeff Zurschmeide
46 Collecting Thoughts
Jerry Seinfeld takes issue with SCM’s story about his 1958
Porsche 356A Speedster
Stephen Serio and Jerry Seinfeld
54 Simon Says
Looking forward to 2016 — and looking back at 2015
Simon Kidston
70 The Cumberford Perspective
The 1935 Aston Martin Ulster 2/4 tourer’s charm comes from
being a true race car
Robert Cumberford
170 eWatch
An auction guarantee comes due after the sale of an
Andy Warhol quadruple portrait of Marilyn Monroe
Carl Bomstead
Affordable
Classic
44
FEATURES
58 2015 Cobble Beach Concours: A secluded Canadian
location hosts spectacular cars — Mark Moskowitz
60 2015 Winter Park Concours: Escaping the cold and
finding Packards in the sunshine
— Bill Rothermel
62 2015 Hilton Head Motoring Festival and Concours:
A top-notch nine days of fun with cars — Bill Rothermel
DEPARTMENTS
24 Auction Calendar
24 Crossing the Block
32 Concours and Events: Rétromobile, Cars for the Cure
and the Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance
34 Contributors: Get to know our writers
36 You Write, We Read: Creating new old-car memories,
300SL rims, and an accessible classic
38 Display Advertisers Index
40 Time Pieces: The International Watch Company Da Vinci
40 Neat Stuff: Two naughty calendars and a magical mystery
playhouse
42 In Miniature: 1953 Buick Wildcat I
42 Speaking Volumes: Gasoline and Magic
104 Rising Sun: Selected sales of Japanese collector cars
128 Fresh Meat: 2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS, 2014 Rolls-Royce
Wraith coupe, 2014 Aston Martin DB9 Volante
158 Mystery Photo: “It’s been said that 914s are ugly. Hah!”
158 Comments with Your Renewals: “Your magazine is
better than cold beer, bungee jumping and square dancing
put together! Yee-haw!”
160 Showcase Gallery: Cars for sale
164 Resource Directory: Meet your car’s needs
20
Sports Car Market
Mark Moskowitz
Page 20
Shifting Gears Keith Martin
People, Places and Things
Perspectives on a new auction company, a reborn museum
and Jerry Seinfeld’s old 356A Speedster
frozen wastes of Siberia if someone there were auctioning a treasure
trove of just-discovered vintage Ferraris at no reserve.
From my perspective, the Keno Brothers have established a good
foundation to build from. They are in it for the long haul, and have just
signed a three-year contract to conduct an auction at the Elegance at
Hershey each June.
If having high-end automobile auctions were easy, everyone would
do it. Ultimately, an auction company is judged by its market-priced
consignments, sell-through rate and sales totals. We’ll see how things
go at Hershey.
A museum is transformed
On the evening of December 5, 2015, the Petersen Automotive
Museum was the belle of its own ball.
After many years of first-rate cars languishing in a third-rate setting,
the board of directors of the Petersen, with Peter Mullin as chairman,
embarked on a $120m fundraising campaign to completely re-identify
the building.
The design and construction team included Kohn Pedersen Fox (ar-
Lighting up Museum Row in Los Angeles
F
bed.
I couldn’t have imagined that one day, just a few blocks from my tiny
studio apartment at 24 Thompson Street, I’d be looking at cars worth
millions of dollars being sold at auction.
The Keno Brothers, Leslie and Leigh, are best known for their exper-
tise in evaluating furniture and antiques on the “Antiques Roadshow”
PBS television series.
They also have a love for fine automobiles, and they recently turned
their passion into a business: Keno Brothers Fine Automobile Auctions.
Their inaugural event, “Rolling Sculpture,” was held on November 19,
2015, at a transformed space at Skylight Clarkson Square in Soho.
For a first-time outing, it was impressive. They selected just 40 auto-
mobiles and displayed each one on a raised podium in three white-walled
rooms. It was reminiscent of a sculpture gallery.
They claimed that what would set them apart from their competitors
— and it is a crowded field indeed at the high end — would be their
transparency and commitment to provide accurate historical information
about their consignments, as well as thorough pre-purchase inspections
for prospective buyers.
On auction afternoon, the room was filled — the Kenos claim there
were more than 1,500 people in attendance. SCMer Andy Reid did a fine
job of providing the introductions, and British auctioneer Simon Hope
persevered with cheer through an evening where the sell-through rate
was 50% — a difficult task for any wielder of a gavel.
When the dust settled, just over $8m in cars had been sold, and only one
for more than a million dollars: a 1967 Bizzarrini Strada 5300. Two other
cars that nearly made the seven-figure club were a 1969 Lamborghini
Miura P400 S at $974,400 and a 1965 Aston Martin DB5 at $950,000.
Best buy of the evening was a pale yellow 1968 Toyota 2000GT that sold
for $683,200 all-in. You’ll find a complete report in our next issue.
Despite the well-done surroundings, few of the consignments were
fresh to market, and fewer still were priced right. The most difficult part
of holding any auction is getting good kit — buyers would trek to the
22
orty years ago, when I lived in a gritty section of New York City
near Canal Street and Avenue of the Americas, I was happy when
the cockroaches didn’t dance on my toothbrush at night. My space
was so small that the refrigerator doubled as the headboard of my
chitects), A. Zahner (steel exterior ribbons) and Scenic Route (interior
design).
The results, while controversial, are to my eyes 100% successful. The
once-dowdy building at 6060 Wilshire Street on Los Angeles’ Museum
Row has become a striking visual tribute to the elements of speed and
style that the automobile embodies.
My daughter Alexandra and I attended the gala. As you might expect,
many of the luminaries of the collector car world were there, including
good friends Peter and Merle Mullin, Bruce and Raylene Meyer, Barry
and Karen Meguiar and many more.
Alex and I started our stroll at the Mullin Grand Salon on the ground
floor. The current exhibit, “Rolling Sculpture,” featured magnificent
marques, including Delahaye, Bugatti, Rolls-Royce and Voison, with
spectacular coachwork. They are spread around like so many brightly
colored candy confections.
The Bruce Meyer Gallery, on the third floor, was filled with silver
cars in an exhibit called “Precious Metal.” It included three Best-of-Show
winners from Pebble Beach: a 1954 Ferrari 375 MM Scaglietti coupe,
a 1937 Horch 853 Sport cabriolet and a 1933 Duesenberg Model SJ
Arlington Torpedo.
To see so many cars, all rare, exquisitely restored and impeccably
presented rocked me back on my automotive heels.
The far-reaching and aspirational scope of the architecture and exhib-
its demonstrates that the Petersen’s board is firmly moving the museum
into the 21st century and beyond.
Speedster spat
Jerry Seinfeld, legendary comedian, longtime SCMer and noted
Porsche collector, defends his purchase of what we called “The Derelict
Porsche,” beginning on p. 46. Our experts Miles Collier and Donald
Osborne, in their evaluation of the sale in the November 2015 issue (p.
54), said the car was in poor shape and that the buyer overpaid.
As the proud new owner of the car, Seinfeld got together with SCM
Contributor Stephen Serio to take issue with their evaluation. They talk
about why they believe Collier and Osborne got it wrong. Collier wrote a
rebuttal of their rebuttal, which is on p. 52.
There’s nothing like a vigorous difference of opinion to make the
pages of a magazine smoke like a well-used 356 engine being pushed to
redline. Enjoy the read. ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 22
Crossing the Block Tony Piff Images courtesy of the respective auction companies unless otherwise noted
• Star Car: 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK
GTR coupe ($2m–$2.2m)
More: www.bonhams.com
Artcurial — Rétromobile 2016 Auction
Where: Paris, FRA
When: February 5
Last year: 156/175 cars sold / $53.8m
Featured cars:
• 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Spider. Built
for Gianni Agnelli (Artcurial estimate:
$750k–$1m)
• 1963 Ferrari 250 GT SWB. From the
Antoine Midy Collection ($10m–$13.2m)
• Star Car: 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spyder
Scaglietti. Extensive important period
race history. From the Pierre Bardinon
Collection ($30m–$34m)
More: www.artcurial.fr
Petersen Salem Collector Car Auction
Where: Salem, OR
When: February 6
More: www.petersencollectorcars.com
Star Car: 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder, the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show car, at RM Sotheby’s in Paris
Leake — OKC 2016
Where: Oklahoma City, OK
When: February 19–21
Last year: 305/430 cars sold / $6.8m
More: www.leakecar.com
RM Sotheby’s — Paris 2016
Where: Paris, FRA
When: February 3
Last year: 54/67 cars sold / $22m
Featured cars:
• 2004 Ferrari Enzo. Finished in Nero
Daytona with red Cartier upholstery.
Carbon wing and mirror, tinted windows,
Enzo monograms, Alpine GPS
and audio system, plus backup camera.
2,500 km from new. Currently going
through Ferrari Classiche certification
(RM Sotheby’s estimate: $1.6m–$2.1m)
• 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing.
Presented in restored condition with
stunning white paintwork ($1.3m–$1.7m)
• Star Car: 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder. The
1955 Frankfurt Motor Show car. With
racing history in North America during
the 1950s ($3m–$3.7m)
More: www.rmsothebys.com
Bonhams — The Grand Palais
Where: Paris, FRA
When: February 4
Last year: 111/143 cars sold / $24.8m
Featured cars:
• 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB. Coachwork
by Scaglietti. Offered without reserve
(Bonhams estimate: $2.7m–$3.8m)
• 1962 Alfa Romeo Giulietta SZ Coda
Tronca. Coachwork by Zagato ($650k–
$870k)
24
Auction Calendar
Email auction info to: chad.tyson@sportscarmarket.com.
JANUARY
7—BONHAMS
Las Vegas, NV
7–9—MECUM
Las Vegas, NV
8–9—TOM MACK
Charlotte, NC
8–10—DAVE RUPP
Fort Lauderdale, FL
15–24—MECUM
Kissimmee, FL
16—COYS
Maastricht, NLD
16—COYS
Birmingham, U.K.
23–31—BARRETTJACKSON
Scottsdale, AZ
27–31—RUSSO AND
STEELE
Scottsdale, AZ
28—BONHAMS
Scottsdale, AZ
28–30—SILVER
Fort McDowell, AZ
29–30—GOODING
& CO.
Scottsdale, AZ
FEBRUARY
3—RM SOTHEBY’S
Paris, FRA
4—BONHAMS
Paris, FRA
5—ARTCURIAL
Paris, FRA
6—PETERSEN
Salem, OR
13—COYS
London, U.K.
19–21—LEAKE
Oklahoma City, OK
22—SHANNONS
Melbourne, AUS
All dates listed are current at time of publication. Contact information for most auction companies may be found in the
Resource Directory at the back of this issue. Please confirm dates and locations before attending any event.
28–29—RM SOTHEBY’S
Phoenix, AZ
23—BARONS
Surrey, U.K.
26–28—G. POTTER KING
Atlantic City, NJ
26–28—McCORMICK’S
Palm Springs, CA
27—SILVERSTONE
Stoneleigh Park, U.K.
MARCH
2—BRIGHTWELLS
Herefordshire, U.K.
3–5—GAA
Greensboro, NC
6—SILVERSTONE
Birmingham, U.K.
8—COYS
London, U.K.
8—SPECIALTY AUTO
Loveland, CO
10—BONHAMS
Amelia Island, FL
11—GOODING & CO.
Amelia Island, FL
11–12—SMITH’S
Cape Girardeau, MO
11–12—MECUM
Kansas City, MO
12—RM SOTHEBY’S
Amelia Island, FL
12—SOUTHERN CLASSIC
Chattanooga, TN
14—SHANNONS
Sydney, AUS
18–19—DAN KRUSE
CLASSICS
San Antonio, TX
18–19—SILVER
Fort McDowell, AZ
19—CCA
Leamington Spa, U.K.
19—MOTOSTALGIA
Amelia Island, FL
26—SOUTHERN CLASSIC
Murfreesboro, TN
28—THEODORE BRUCE
Sydney, AUS
Sports Car Market
Page 24
Crossing the Block Tony Piff Images courtesy of the respective auction companies
Star Car: 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR coupe to be offered at Bonhams’ Paris sale
McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction
Where: Palm Springs, CA
When: February 19–21
Last year: 417/584 cars sold / $7.5m
More: www.classic-carauction.com
Shannons — Melbourne Late Summer Classic
Where: Melbourne, AUS
When: February 22
More: www.shannons.com.au
Barons — Collectors and Sports Cars
Where: Surrey, U.K.
When: February 23
Last year: 30/41 cars sold / $343k
More: www.barons-auctions.com
G. Potter King — Atlantic City Classic Car Auction
Where: Atlantic City, NJ
When: February 26–28
More: www.acclassiccars.com
Silverstone — Race Retro
Where: Warwickshire, U.K.
When: February 27–28
Last year: 67/86 cars sold / $5.3m
Featured cars:
• 1958 MGA Twin-Cam roadster.
Ex-Works (Silverstone estimate: $105k–
$120k)
• 1970 MGC racer. Competition spec with
period history ($20k–$25k)
More: www.silverstoneauctions.com ♦
Star Car: 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spyder by Scaglietti, with extensive important period race history, at Artcurial’s Rétromobile sale in Paris
26
Sports Car Market
Page 30
Concours and Events SCM Staff Send news and event listings to insideline@sportscarmarket.com
FEBRUARY CALENDAR
5–7 VARA/ SVRA Duel in
the Desert, Pahrump, NV;
www.vararacing.com
13 Concours in the Hills,
Fountain Hills, AZ; www.
concoursinthehills.org
26–28 Race Retro,
Stoneleigh Park, Coventry,
U.K.; www.raceretro.com
Getting Together
Under the Florida Sun
The 9th Annual Boca Raton
The City of Light and Great Cars
Rétromobile, one of Europe’s biggest and best car events, has the unbeatable combination of great cars on
display in the City of Light February 3–7. The Paris Expo Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre is the host for
more than 450 exhibitors, 500 cars and more than 100 automotive clubs.
This is the 41st year of Rétromobile, and this year’s event will celebrate designer Philippe Charbonneaux.
The “Belles Montres” exhibition will display fine time pieces. Artcurial Motorcars’ auction is on February 5.
This year’s SCM Rétromobile reception at Café Le Jambon à la Broche is on February 3 from 4:30 to 6:30
p.m. Ed Fallon, longtime SCMer and founder of Cave Creek Classics, will host. Spaces are still available —
RSVP to meredith.volk@sportscarmarket.com no later than January 18. RM Sotheby’s and Bonhams are also
holding auctions off-site during the automotive week. en.retromobile.com (FRA)
Concours d’Elegance brings
together more than 200 fine cars,
Jay Leno and fantastic Florida
sunshine. All this adds up to a
fun, festive February 19–21. The
weekend kicks off in style with a
hangar party at Atlantic Aviation
at the Boca Raton Airport on February
19. More social gatherings
take place on February 21, with
the Concours Gala dinner, auction
and show, which will include
Jay Leno. The Boca Raton Resort
and Club in Florida opens the
gates for the Concours d’Elegance
at 9:30 a.m., February 22. This
year’s concours celebrates Packard
and will feature a CCCA
Grand Classic. Proceeds go to the
Boys and Girls Club of Broward
County. Concours admission is
$75. www.bocaratonconcours.
com (FL)
Family-friendly, and
for a good cause
An array of amazing cars
will decorate Lake Mary, FL,
on February 13 for the 12th Annual
Cars for the Cure. Taking
place at Colonial TownPark, this
daylong family festival is free to
the public. Proceeds benefit the
American Lung Association in
Central Florida. The weekend
also includes a VIP reception at
the Westin Lake Mary on February
12 and a registered participants’
drive on Sunday, February
14. www.carsforthecure.com (FL)
32
Sports Car Market
You Write We Read
All letters are subject to editing. Please address correspondence to SCM, P.O. Box 4797, Portland, OR 97208.
Fax 503.253.2234, e-mail: youwrite@sportscarmarket.com
New memories on the
way
To the Editor:
In Keith Martin’s January
2016 “Shifting Gears” column
(p. 20), he expresses regret for
beginning a restoration on his
Alfa. He seems to feel guilty for
stripping the Spider of not just
poor repairs and rust, but also
of the “memories of where we’d
been before.” Yet he acknowledged
that the decision was made
to fix a door-fit issue that really
bothered him. I get it, having
made a similar decision recently
regarding an old, daily-driver
Porsche.
Please recall that the Alfa
doesn’t have memories. You
do. Alex doesn’t want the car
because of the poor door fit, the
rust in the trunk or the scratches
in the paint. She wants the car
because she remembers the time
spent with it, and specifically,
the time spent with you in it. The
real pitfall to your decision, as I
see it, is that you might not want
to put all of those scratches back
in the paint after you get the car
back.
As long as you enjoy the car
when it’s done — as long as
you drive it hard and use it as
you did before — you’ll create
new memories marked by new
scratches that you’ll cherish,
along with the Alfa itself. You
just won’t have that poor door
fit to irritate you anymore. I
think you can live with that. If
you can’t, sprinkle a few show
trophies on the Alfa to assuage
your guilt before driving her
hard again. Restoration is just a
part of long-term ownership for
a car that’s used as a real car.
Enjoy the process — then enjoy
the Alfa — and you’ll never
look back. — Jordan Cohen,
Glendale, CA
Keith Martin responds:
Thank you, Jordan. My thoughts
have been trending the same way
— this restoration is just a new
part of the Alfa’s life story. And
there are fresh memories waiting
to be made.
Pur Sang Bugatti panned
To the Editor:
Your brief review of Lot 165
of the Indianapolis Nostalgia
Auction (October 2015,
36
You’ll create new memories marked by new scratches that
you’ll cherish, along with the Alfa itself
Motostalgia Auction Report, p.
128) indicates a more subjective
than factual description. The
car shown is a replica Type 35B
(with compressor) and has an
8-cylinder single overhead-cam
engine. Calling it a tribute does
more injustice to Bugatti than
anything else.
Clinging to the appalling rise
in rare-car prices, Pur Sang in
Argentina does produce ofteninexact
copies of many classic
vehicles. However, there have
been recent actions on the part of
sanctioned rallies and competitions
to exclude such lookalikes
from participation.
A buyer should understand
that in many countries, these
cars cannot be registered for
the road. They do not meet the
safety and emission standards
for their year of manufacture.
Hardly perfectly usable! — Jack
du Gan, Veneto, Italy
What about the 300SL
rims?
To the Editor:
Let’s expand the whitewall
discussion (December 2015,
“You Write,” p. 36) to polished
rims on 300SLs. In my experience
as a former 300SL owner
and intrepid researcher, 300SL
wheels were painted to match the
car’s exterior. Hubcaps were the
same as on the 190. The Rudge
wheels were painted except for
the knockoffs.
So how do the polished rims
pass inspection at a concours? I
admit they look better, but original
is original. — Gary Francis,
Chico, CA
Staying on the road
To the Editor:
I would like to share with
those who think the collector car
hobby is not for them as we age
and our body changes. I found
there is nothing designed for
those with different needs —
until now.
It all started with my passion
for classic cars dating back over
30 years. I not only look at them
as pieces of art, but I also feel
they are a piece of history that
should be retained for future
generations.
When my life took an unex-
pected turn over 10 years ago,
causing me to use a wheelchair
for mobility, I tried not to let that
slow me down. However, one
area that I found was lacking in
accessibility is the classic-car
hobby. That is when I started
planning, shopping, designing
and creating.
Unlike most who prefer a
certain type of car or truck —
and then find the one they like
and buy it — I had to find a
vehicle that would be suitable
for my needs. Once that was
complete, I wanted to pay tribute
to my grandfather and father,
who both worked for a company
whose roots go back to the Pony
Express.
That company is the Railway
Express Agency, for which my
grandfather worked for 46 years.
My father worked for the company
right out of high school and
then again for a short time right
out of the Air Force.
The Railway Express Agency
was the forerunner to UPS and
FedEx. It was a governmentcontrolled
shipping company
that would ship everything from
apples to zoo animals. They were
crucial during World War II, as
they shipped our military sup-
Sports Car Market
Page 36
Ad Index
AIG PC Global Services, Inc .............................................91
American Car Collector ...................................................158
Artcurial ........................................................................16–17
Aston Martin of New England .........................................125
Auctions America ...............................................................33
Authentic Classics ............................................................153
Auto Kennel ......................................................................147
Automotive Restorations Inc............................................139
Autosport Designs Inc ......................................................133
Barrett-Jackson .................................................... 4–5, 41, 91
Bennett Law Office ..........................................................154
Beverly Hills Car Club .....................................................143
Bonhams / SF ........................................................ 12–13, 15
Canepa ..............................................................................131
Cars, Inc. .............................................................................55
Centerline Alfa Parts.........................................................142
Central Classic Cars
......................................155
Charles Prince Classic Cars................................................95
Chequered Flag International ...........................................137
Classic Assets Motor Sports Center ...................................51
Classic Investments ............................................................71
Classic Motor, Inc. ............................................................157
Classic Showcase................................................................64
Continental AutoSports ...................................................143
Cooper Technica, Inc. .........................................................10
Cooper Technica, Inc. .......................................................141
Copley Motorcars .............................................................145
D. L. George Coachworks ................................................109
DC Automotive .................................................................126
DeLorean Motor Company Florida .................................138
Dobson Motorsport...........................................................147
Dragone Classic Motorcars Inc. .......................................115
Driversource Houston LLC ..........................................30–31
driversroad.com ................................................................106
Electric Garage Auctions ....................................................59
European Collectibles.......................................................141
Exotic Classics ..................................................................136
Fantasy Junction .................................................................49
Ferrari Financial Services .................................................107
Ferrari Market Letter ........................................................155
Fourintune Garage Inc ......................................................151
Gooding & Company .......................................................2–3
Greensboro Auto Auction .................................................119
Greystone Mansion Concours d’Elegance .........................57
Grundy Insurance .............................................................127
GTO Engineering LTD .......................................................99
Gullwing Motor Cars, Inc. ...............................................149
Hahn-Vorbach & Associates LLC ....................................105
Hamann Classic Cars........................................................123
Hendrick Motorsports ........................................................43
Heritage Classics ................................................................53
High Mountain Classics ...................................................150
Hollywood Wheels Inc .................................................82–83
Hyman, LTD .....................................................................113
Images Auto Body ............................................................153
Intercity Lines .....................................................................45
JC Taylor ...........................................................................117
JJ Best Banc & Co ............................................................161
Keno Brothers Auctions .....................................................35
Kevin Kay Restorations .....................................................87
Kiawah Island Motoring Retreat ........................................65
Kidston ................................................................................19
La Jolla Concours D’ Elegance ........................................101
Leake Auction Company ..................................................111
Legendary Motorcar Company ........................................153
Lory Lockwood ..................................................................63
Luxury Brokers International ...........................................145
MacNeil Automotive Products Ltd ....................................56
Mercedes Classic Center ....................................................37
Mershon’s World Of Cars.................................................129
Modena Cento Ore Classic ................................................14
Motorcar Gallery ..............................................................131
Motostalgia .........................................................................21
Palm Springs Exotic Car Auctions .....................................93
Park Place LTD .................................................................103
Paul Russell And Company ..............................................127
PORsport.com ..................................................................149
Pro-Team Corvette Sales, Inc ...........................................121
Putnam Leasing ................................................................172
QuickSilver Exhausts Ltd...................................................89
Reliable Carriers .................................................................85
RM Sotheby’s .....................................................6–7, 8–9, 11
Robert Glover LTD...........................................................135
RPM Restoration & Performance Motorcars ..................155
Russo & Steele LLC .....................................................28–29
SCM Platinum Auction Database ....................................155
Scottsdale Sports & Classic Motorcars ............................112
Shook Legal, Ltd. .............................................................130
Silver Collector Car Auctions ............................................97
Sloancars .............................................................................27
Sports Car Market.............................................................158
Steve Anderson Illustrations.............................................151
Steve Austin’s Great Vacations ..........................................94
Stoddard NLA-LLC ...........................................................39
Suixtil USA .......................................................................135
Symbolic International .......................................................23
T.D.C. Risk Management ...................................................91
The Creative Workshop ....................................................102
The Stable, Ltd. ..................................................................61
The Werk Shop .................................................................159
Unit 56 ..............................................................................139
Vintage Car Research .......................................................155
Vintage Motors of Sarasota ................................................96
Vintage Rallies ..................................................................133
Watchworks ......................................................................159
Welsh Enterprises, Inc. .....................................................125
West Coast Classics, LLC ................................................151
WestWind European .........................................................159
Winkler Realty ..................................................................137
Woodside Credit ...............................................................171
Worldwide Group ...............................................................25
Your Car In Diecast ..........................................................126
38
You Write We Read
I had to find
a vehicle
that would be
suitable for my
needs
plies and clothing. This company
helped build America — using
everything from horses to railroads
to trucks to airplanes. Due
to stiff competition in the early
’70s from trucking companies,
they went bankrupt in 1975.
Once I found this truck, I
then designed and customized
everything inside and out. The
1960 Ford F-100 Model 82 Panel
was the final year of production
for this model. With fewer than
7,000 originally produced, there
are not many left. My intentions
were to customize everything
— but still look stock. Although
it shares a lot with the F-100
Pickup, there are still some
one-year-only parts. It is difficult
to find parts for a very-lowproduction
panel truck.
Six years ago, my dream and
designs were ready. After two
years of shopping and budgeting,
I had the right truck and the right
friend — Ken Tomey — to build
my dream. The project lasted
four years, but now it’s ready
to show and enjoy. The colors
are all correct, the signs are
all hand-painted and the truck
number on the front bumper is an
actual Railway Express Agency
porcelain truck number.
There are no companies
out there that will do what
I’ve done for the handicapped.
I’ve applied for patents for my
designs. Everything is computer
controlled and is activated with
a key fob.
My hope is if I can help
another person who might be in
a wheelchair — or has someone
who they want to take cruising
who is in a wheelchair — then
my dream will be complete.
Just because life throws us
curves, never give up on your
dreams.
Here is a link to the
video showing how it works:
http://m.youtube.com/
watch?v=NvgOZaVLB6U.
Watch how I designed the
bumper to drop under the truck
to get out of the way of the lift.
The driver’s seat rotates and
slides back so that I can transfer
out of my wheelchair into the
driver’s seat. Then I rotate under
the steering wheel and control
the accelerator and brakes with
hand controls. — Dan Distler,
Greenwood, IN
Keith Martin responds: Dan,
this is great — and very inspiring.
Many thanks for sharing.
Errata
On p. 22 of our 2016 Insider’s
Guide to the Arizona Auctions,
we stated that RM Sotheby’s
is the official auction of the
Arizona Concours d’Elegance.
The concours does not have an
official auction. RM Sotheby’s
is a sponsor of the concours, as
are Bonhams and Gooding &
Company. ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 38
Time Pieces by Alex Hofberg
In 1868, American watchmaker F.A. Jones
A Watch That Tracks the Centuries
established The International Watch Company,
one of Switzerland’s first modern watch factories.
It was on the banks of the Rhine River
in Schaffhausen, a small town in the eastern,
German-speaking part of Switzerland.
Jones had been a director of E. Howard & Co.
of Boston, MA, which was the American leader
of fine watchmaking. Jones wanted to use the
lessons he learned in factory-based, mass-production
techniques. He brought these techniques
to a country where much of the competition still
employed traditional cottage-style production,
where components were made in home workshops
and gathered by an assembler to create a
complete watch.
Since the very start, IWC’s innovations and
patents have enriched and furthered the science
and art of fine watchmaking.
One of the most notable International Watch Company innovations
was a perpetual calendar system fit as a complete module on top of a
Valjoux 7750 self-winding chronograph calibre.
In the early 1980s, Kurt Klaus, an International Watch Company de-
signer and watchmaker, was assigned Operation Eternity, which called
for taking the basic 7750 module and adding these features: day, date,
month, phase of the moon, and remarkably, a four-digit year-indicating
system that would self-correct for leap year. That watch was introduced
as the International Watch Company Da Vinci.
The finished prototype of the calendar module was elegant in its
simplicity in components and the user
experience. Having only 83 parts, the
system employed no corrector pushbuttons
to allow individual setting
of the various calendar indications.
Instead, it was set up to a correct
date and moon position at the factory.
Adjustments are made by simply advancing
the hands through the main
crown (positioned at 3 o’clock) until
the proper date is reached.
Most watches that display the
phase of the moon are by design inaccurate.
Typically, the moon disc is
Neat Stuff by Tony Piff
Racy Calendars
Take a sexy, surreal, yearlong trip around the Nürburgring and the
Isle of Man with these
two tasteful 2016 calendars
(£20–£25, about
$30–$38). Each month
commemorates a famous
moment from the tracks’
long histories. Artist and
journalist Rachael Clegg
is the creative mind behind
this excellent photo
project, as well as the
excellent behind in front
of the lens. Individual
signed prints are also
available (£24–£90,
about $30–$135).
www.rachaelclegg.com
40
Details
Production date: 1985
Best place to wear one: This watch
should be worn or put on a winder,
as resetting the calendar after months
or years of sitting still will wear out
your fingers
Ratings (
Rarity:
Durability:
Parts/service availability:
Cool factor:
is best):
indexed to show a new moon every 29.5 days,
which creates an error of one day in slightly less
than three years.
As an individual correction to the moon is
impossible on the Da Vinci, Klaus had to get
much closer. His final design emulates a lunar
cycle — with accuracy to five digits or a single
day of variance in 126 years. That means the
error will be corrected during factory service,
which is more frequent, and will never be noticed.
Another remarkable achievement of the Da
Vinci is the small rectangular sliding century
indicator that shows the numbers 19, 20 and 21
to indicate the first two digits of any year. As this
disc moves only once per century, just consider
the gear reduction that allows this to happen.
One movement of the slide occurs after approxi-
mately 25.2 billion oscillations of the balance wheel.
As explained in IWC’s own words:
“Never before in an IWC wristwatch had a gear train converted the
enormous distance traveled by the escape wheel into a single movement
of the century slide: Between two of these movements, a point on the
outer rim of the balance covers a distance equal to 40 times of that
around the Earth.”
The Da Vinci watch was considered fairly large when it was intro-
duced, but compared to modern norms, it is far from oversized at nearly
40 mm, although the hinged lugs where the strap attaches make the
watch seem bigger.
The dial is nicely legible considering it sits under nine hands and
over the moon disc and year indicator. The case, which is said to be
inspired by a Da Vinci sketch of a proposed fortress design, is rather
stark and unadorned. The only interruptions are the winding crown and
chronograph push buttons.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Da Vinci was its price when
introduced. An 18k yellow gold version mounted on a crocodile strap
with an 18k folding buckle had an MSRP of $20,500. The stainless-steel
version (pictured) was $19,500.
In essence, the International Watch Company was saying: “We don’t
really care what metal you want your watch made out of, you are paying
for the mechanism.” This is a refreshing outlook. These days the same
may hold true, as Da Vinci models seem to be trading under $10,000
regardless of metal.
Take Playtime Further
What’s better than a
make-believe playhouse?
A VW bus, of course.
The cardboard Kampini
(€80, about $120) includes
storage compartments
and hiding places,
an integrated folding
table, lift-off roof, movable
steering wheel and
an awning. It assembles
without tools or glue. www.kickpack-shop.de ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 40
In Miniature by Marshall Buck
1953 Buick Wildcat I
It’s easy to see why this one-off
concept car played a starring role in
General Motors’ 1953 Motorama exhibition.
We can thank GM’s design
chief, Harley Earl, and his vision. It is
said that the Buick Wildcat 1 was his
favorite design of all time. This car is
a standout in design and functionality.
Unlike most prototype dream cars, everything
on this baby worked.
According to owner Joe Bortz, “The Wildcat I was probably the most
roadable — and best-built dream car to come out of the 1950s.”
Joe Bortz is no stranger to superb, ultra-rare collector automobiles, and
the market they reside in, and Minichamps is no stranger to mass-market
model-car production. So, these two collaborated to make models, and they
have done it very well indeed, with a wonderful line of eight (possibly more)
selected concept cars from the Bortz Auto Collection. The Bortz dream
machines are available in two scales: 1:43, as shown here, and in the muchlarger
1:18 scale. Both ranges are numbered
editions of 999 of each vehicle. Yes, that does
add up to a lot of models.
I reviewed the Bortz Collection 1:43-scale
Model Details
Production date: 2015
Quantity: 999
SCM five-star rating:
Overall quality:
Authenticity:
Overall value:
Web: www.minichamps.de
1951 Buick Le Sabre in American Car Collector
issue 22, and in looking at that one, and the
Wildcat, I am very impressed. I have had a vast
number of models through my hands over the
years, and I have seen the best and the worst.
I know I am looking at a great one when it sits
Speaking Volumes by Mark Wigginton
Gasoline and Magic
by Hilar Stadler, Martin Stollenwerk, Edition Patrick Frey, 288 pages,
$66.00, http://motorsportfriends.ch
dial at random for a weekend in the 1960s
to 1980s, set
Evidently, time travel is possible. Spin the
the destination as Le Mans or
Watkins Glen, Riverside or Spa, and take the
ride.
Thanks to photo collector Thomas Horat
(whose day job is documentary filmmaker), it’s
almost that easy.
Horat built a huge collection of racing im-
ages, more than 75,000 photos from throughout
the 20th century, mostly from amateurs
who enjoyed easy access that is unseen in the
antiseptic professional paddocks of today.
Like the preacher’s son who turns to the
dark side, the allure of racing cars informed
Horat’s fascination with the thing he was denied
growing up in a car-free Alpine village.
Gasoline and Magic is a just glimpse of the
wonders he has on hand, and most of the images
have never been published before.
Don’t be put off by the “amateur” notion. The framing, content and art-
istry in the work glow from every page. These were fans, first and foremost,
bringing their knowledge to the track — and their bags of lenses.
As such, the subjects are wide-ranging, from coltish majorettes on the
starting line to strings of Can-Am beasts circling racks that look terrifyingly
dangerous in hindsight.
Given the easy access of the period, many of the images are from around
the pits and paddock and depict intimate moments of drivers, mechanics and
hangers-on. The shots prove the secret rule professional photographers live
by: The best images are made before or after the event.
Pick any page and you find a lovely moment: Clay Regazzoni and Niki
42
Lauda rehashing the 1974 Italian Grand Prix in which
neither finished, Graham Hill and Jo Siffert hanging with
mechanics in the paddock at the 1968 U.S. Grand Prix
at Watkins Glen, fans squealing in delight as a Ferrari
312B is driven through the paddock gates at Spa in 1970.
The whole world of motorsports, in a unique era,
comes to life in Gasoline and Magic — and this wonderful
book proves that time travel is indeed a wonderful
thing.
Provenance:
You really can’t get any more real than selections of
unpublished images of actual events.
Fit and finish:
The layout is minimalism at the extreme, with
single images either at the top of a single page or across
two-page spreads, with the slightest of captions. Print
quality is good, which sometimes brings out the flaws
of the originals — and the amateur photo technology of
the period.
Drivability:
At first, the book felt random, unfocused. But as I
turned the pages, the power of the work started to come
through. If you have ever spent a day taking photographs
with a film camera at an event, you probably have the experience
of looking through the prints that came back and
being dismayed that the photos didn’t represent what you
experienced. But then, like magic, one or two of the photos
work — they captured the moment as you saw it. Now,
take those few winning images from a thousand different
photographers, gather them in a collection and then pick a
couple of hundred. That sums up Gasoline and Magic. Now
I want more. ♦
Sports Car Market
before me, and I can’t stop looking
at this model and all its fine
details.
Although all the models
in this range are curbside (no
opening panels), they feature an
immense amount of delicate and
accurate detailing, which is due
in part to the very watchful eye
of Mr. Bortz, who made certain
these models were top-notch
examples.
Overall, the fit and finish is excellent. The stance is great,
as is the smooth, high-gloss cream paint. There is a good deal
of chrome trim, all fantastic, and the delicate side chrome
strips are actually meticulously applied chrome decals.
Looking at the perfectly rendered grille, I noticed that
it had a carefully applied black wash to separate the grille
bars. Little photo-etched emblems sit proudly front and rear,
and there are two almost-hair-thin antennas mounted just in
front of superb taillights.
The turquoise interior in its replication and detail is just
as good as the rest of the model. I was pleased with the delicate
white piping applied to the seats.
Is there any room for improvement? Yes, the well-done
steering wheel could benefit from a photo-etched part to better
replicate the banjo spokes. That’s it.
This is a terrific model, worth fitting into most any model
collection, and it is very reasonably priced at $99.95.
pers. Fiat announced the follow-on X1/9 sports car in
1973, and that was the end of the 850 Spider.
Low price, high sales
The price of a new 850 in 1967 was about $2,000,
compared with $3,000 for a 124 Spider, or $4,000 for
an Alfa Romeo Duetto or a small-block Corvette. By
1973, the price of an 850 had risen only to about $2,700.
Because of that, Fiat sold about 20,000 of the little
Spiders each year.
In all, more than 124,000 Spiders were sold in
America. So for a while there were plenty of 850 Spiders
around, which kept prices low. Then poor reliability and
an impressive tendency to rust continued to keep prices
down. For a time, there were active clubs and enthusiasts
with boneyards full of parts cars, but even those
have now dwindled.
Good cars or fright pigs
What’s left on the market has bifurcated into two
groups — cars that have been maintained or restored
to very good to excellent condition, and fright pigs so
derelict as to be less than worthless. There aren’t many
left between those two extremes.
That’s important, because with an 850 Spider, you
don’t want less than the best. Among the parts that have
become nearly impossible to find are replacement body
panels.
Rust is endemic in these cars, and fixing it will likely
require fabrication because it will be even harder to find
a cheap donor car that has not rusted away in the same
places. Engine and other hard parts will be equally difficult
to find.
Find a good one
Prices for 850 Spiders have topped $16,000 occasionally, but I’m going to say those
buyers got drunk and paid too much. You can find plenty of good examples selling for
four figures, such as the 1971 Fiat 850 Sport Spider (Lot 1050) that sold for $8,250 at
Auctions America’s California sale on July 17, 2015.
It’s a good idea to start your search in the remaining 850 Spider enthusiast com-
munity. There are some good cars out there. As a bonus, you’ll probably get a muchneeded
garage full of spare parts and body panels with a private sale.
The bottom line is that there are very good reasons for the Fiat 850 Spider to remain
affordable, but a good one will hold its value at this point.
If you can find one of the 850 Racer models, so much the better. Future prospects
for appreciation are not great with any 850 variant, but you will get a fun car that is
sure to spark more than a few conversations. Just choose wisely. ♦
February 2016
45
Page 44
Collecting Thoughts The Value of Originality
“That’s what I saw in
this car. Something that
was right, made well
from the beginning, got
lucky and lasted.”
— Jerry Seinfeld
Blue Zone Cars and Being Ahead of the Curve
Jerry Seinfeld and Stephen Serio rebut SCM’s take on a 1958 Porsche 356A
Speedster that sold for $583k at Gooding’s Pebble Beach Auction
by Stephen Serio and Jerry Seinfeld
J
46
erry Seinfeld and I first met in June of 2004 when he became the new custodian
of a 17,000-mile 1953 Porsche 356 Super, an all-original, low-mileage, matchingeverything
miracle in Fashion Gray with a dark blue interior. Being a 70-horsepower
Super, it was the highest-performing 356 for sale at that time, which was
only the third year of series-production Porsches.
I acquired it from the long-term second owner’s estate, and it was in many ways a
touchstone car for me to inspect, drive and sell. Since that moment, Jerry and I have had
countless conversations about the importance of original cars and how they transport
you back in time to when they were first constructed and enjoyed.
We are utterly simpatico in our view about how these cars are simply the things that
you should strive to own above all other examples, period.
A dispute over a 1958 Porsche 356A Speedster
The issue at hand today is Lot 158 from the Gooding & Company auction at Pebble
Beach this past August, a 1958 Porsche 356A Speedster. I knew fairly quickly after the
sale that Jerry was the last man standing, as he outlasted two spirited underbidders.
When the November issue of SCM hit my mailbox, I was eager to read the “Collecting
Thoughts” column about this car (“Is The Age of the Original Beater at Hand?” p. 54) by
two colleagues of mine, Miles Collier and Donald Osborne.
After the read, I was wondering if they were talking about the same car I saw. These
two respected voices in the hobby, our two good friends, were so strangely clueless and
careless at the same time.
Mr. Serio with a 1956 “unicorn” survivor Carrera Speedster
recently acquired for a client
Sports Car Market
Jerry and I got together for a three-hour Italian lunch
on November 4 to discuss this subject.
Here is our conversation, which is edited for your
enjoyment:
Serio: Let me read to you from the SCM article on
the car you bought. “Once again we have a sad example
of a naïve buyer whose heart is in the right place trying
David Tomaro
Matt Nolan
Page 45
“This Speedster ... somehow found
itself in an environment that enabled
it to survive decades beyond what it
was intended to without significant
deterioration. That’s a Blue Zone car.”
to buy an unrestored, original car and paying a whopping
great premium for the privilege. Alas, the car is, in fact, an
abused and neglected car with massive needs, and aside
from the paint, few original surfaces.”
Seinfeld: Here’s how off these guys are: I put a clutch
in it, went through the brake system, threw on some new
tires and took off down the road. My Instagram picture
was taken after that first ride, about a week after I took
delivery. You can see from the look on my face it was
glorious. So much for “massive needs.”
You know, this kind of unlikely survival is something
that certain things are just favored with. It’s like every
once in a while someone gets a break. Every once in a
while, a human being lives that full, healthy life into their
mid-90s for no real reason other than they got lucky.
Lucky DNA, lucky environment, lucky diet, you know, the
“Blue Zones,” they’re called. A few places in the world,
Sicily, Okinawa, Sardinia. And that’s what this Speedster
was. It somehow found itself in an environment that enabled
it to survive decades beyond what it was intended to
without significant deterioration. That’s a Blue Zone car.
Serio: This resonates with me because I’ve just ac-
quired a similar-type car for a client in the way of a 1956
Carrera Speedster. This car was owned by one guy from
1962 until very recently. It survived through a few house
moves and a mudslide that almost took away the garage it
was in. These cars are unicorns.
Seinfeld: Here’s what I saw: This car has very little
rust; it’s a ’58 Porsche that somehow survived without
any special care. I will compare this to my great friend
Henri Meyer, who is in his 90s and still driving a Porsche
GT3. That this guy has made it this far — he’s not a workout
guy, he’s not a health guy, he’s just a guy that through
some great good fortune has had this long, beautiful life.
That’s what I saw in this car. Something that was right,
made well from the beginning, got lucky and lasted.
We all know that life is a deterioration process. This
is another key aspect of what attracts us to preserve old
cars. We know that the world is at war with this thing.
Moisture, rust, deterioration, neglect, poor maintenance.
Serio: The elements are in sync fighting the car.
Seinfeld: The elements are all aligned against the car,
and it made it anyway. This is a special, wonderful thing
in the world. This is the value that I saw in this 356. The
dripping gold plating onto the paint, no artist can recreate
this the way 56 years of time can. The gearshift knob
has the most gorgeous patina on it.
Serio: That’s the perfect storm for that to have ended
up that way. But according to Miles, “it’s an abused, badly
rusted lump.”
Seinfeld: Where is it abused, by the way? What is
the abuse? Because someone drove it? Because someone
used it to get where they were going? Is that abuse? This
February 2016
Mr. Seinfeld with his new old pride and joy
47
was not an art object. That’s exactly the charm of it. This is a coveted, thoroughbred
sports car that lived its life as just a car to get around. I love that.
Serio: It was also described as repainted.
Seinfeld: Not. The chassis is solid. There’s no structural rust. The doors and lids
close perfectly. We did a paint-meter check. The paint IS original. Thank you, SCM expert
analysts. Also, it retains all its original panels. So much for “few original surfaces.”
What were they looking at? For us in this hobby, these are important facts to get
right.
There’s two issues here, one is what you and I saw and felt about this car, the other
is the sometimes incorrect misrepresentations of the people that are working for this
magazine. So let’s just add another voice of expertise here, as we’re not new to this. The
other thing that bothered me is Miles and Donald are two guys I respect.
Well worn vs. restored
Serio: Let’s use an extreme example of what you’d rather have. There are 39 Ferrari
GTOs. I believe two remain dead-original. Which one would a true collector want, and
which one is more valuable? The original cars, yes? The real collector is going to say, “I
want the one that wasn’t messed with. I want to go back to the Ferrari factory in 1963
and smell that energy.”
Seinfeld: Exactly.
Serio: You have six Speedsters.
Seinfeld: Yes. But I don’t have a Speedster that tells the story that this car does. And
you don’t have to be some highly attuned, overly obsessed enthusiast to get in this car
and go, “This is amazing.”
I don’t know why people have trouble appreciating or perceiving that originality is
the end point of what we do. You know, there’s all these cars out there in the hobby that
are moving around. People buy them, they restore them, they sell them, they appear in
auctions. And then every once in a while something comes along that’s not part of the
hobby. That’s what was cool about this car to me. This car isn’t in the hobby. This was
just somebody’s car. That is what made it so compelling.
Serio: Miles Collier dismissed the car because of that. We’ve talked about what man
makes versus what only nature can make. The look of time honestly passing can’t be
Brian Henniker, courtesy of Gooding & Co.
Spike Feresten
Page 46
Collecting Thoughts The Value of Originality
replicated easily.
Seinfeld: It can’t be replicated, period. Let me ask you, why would you want to have
an old car to begin with? Why are you even interested in old cars? No one’s interested
in old cell phones or old refrigerators or old plumbing or old medical equipment. But
there’s something different about old cars.
Serio: Old cars transport you two ways, down the road and through time.
Seinfeld: Because they’re cultural objects. How many Speedsters have we had and
seen over these years of obsession?
Serio: Hundreds.
Seinfeld: I’ve had nine different ones over 25 years, and we’ve both been driving
them everywhere for decades. So why, when I got in this particular ’58 that no one has
taken particularly good care of, was I so instantly thrilled? This is the only one I have
that shows you truthfully how really well made they were from the very beginning.
It’s got 99k miles on it, seems to have been barely washed in its 57 years, and still
runs like a champion — easily keeping up with modern traffic. That, to me, is a fun old
car. There is “original” and then there’s Original. This is Original.
Serio: It simply boils down to that feeling you get when you sit in a car for the first
time. The best restoration shops in the world can’t make a car old.
Seinfeld: Exactly, this car has the greatest Speedster seats I’ve ever sat in. They’re
just like that baseball glove you used your entire childhood, broken in, creased, worn,
a little saggy but absolutely perfect. So comfortable from being well used. Not abused.
It’s an unusual thing.
Here’s the story that this cars tells: In the 1950s, the obsessive quality of these little
cars was the lifeline out of the horrors of war for this company. The people that worked
on these cars worked so hard. Slept nights at the factory, so wherever it ended up across
the world, it would work right. And decades later, that’s why we love them.
Serio: And because this car was never fixed up or restored, the only thing that’s left
is the quality that was built into it originally.
Seinfeld: Right. You don’t get that story from a 297-out-of-300-point concours
Speedster.
48
Serio: So, the United States destroys Germany in the
war, Germany works overtime to send a decontented, cutprice
car to the United States that we’re talking about 60
years later because it turns out to be the jewel of jewels if
you seek the pure sports car experience.
Seinfeld: That’s a pretty good goddamned story.
Lee Marvin and the reset button
Serio: We talked about Keith Martin recently ruining
his old Alfa Romeo by sanitizing it. We both have restored
old cars, we like restored cars, but they feel different.
Seinfeld: They might even feel better. But it’s not
always about better. It’s about an authenticity of experience.
Serio: You’ve taken away the story by restoring the
car.
Seinfeld: You’ve hit the reset button. You start a new
story. You’ve thrown out the script. The résumé is blank
now. The easy comparison in architecture is the Coliseum
in Rome or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. We wouldn’t restore
those things and throw out the script. We’ve talked about
“Where is it abused, by the way?
What is the abuse? Because someone
drove it? Because someone used it to
get where they were going? Is that
abuse? This was not an art object.
That’s exactly the charm of it.”
Sports Car Market
David Tomaro
Page 48
Collecting Thoughts The Value of Originality
old actors before like this, too. Someone like James Coburn… Lee Marvin?
Serio: Lee Marvin especially. Look at that life and how it wore on his face. Would
you take away that look of experience if Lee Marvin were a car?
Seinfeld: If Lee Marvin were a car, would you restore him? Would you color his
hair? Would you give him an eye job and dental veneers?
Serio: Would you hit the reset button? I think a restoration on certain cars is just that.
Seinfeld: Like poor Mr. Martin and his Alfa. He thinks he’s gaining because he’s
spending money on the car. But he’s actually losing the most special part of that car.
The net value is less.
Serio: You don’t always want to reset something that time and history have anointed
with character. I would venture to guess that some folks regret sanitizing the history
out of some great cars and some restorers may look upon some of their best work, and
as enthusiasts, not businessmen, have a tiny bit of regret that they may have expunged a
piece of automotive history.
The value of old
Serio: So who decides the value of old and patinated versus shiny and restored?
Seinfeld: I was going to say the market isn’t stupid, but we all know that isn’t always
true…
Serio: The market can be filled with lemmings in some cases.
Seinfeld: True. But the fact that I wasn’t the only schmuck out there that was fighting
tooth and nail to get this car tells you something.
Serio: One data point may be an anomaly, two may be a coincidence, three is a trend?
“I can’t find you another ’58 Speedster that has been this
used and sat outside and just been a car for all these years
and is still in great shape. I couldn’t do it with an
unlimited budget. But I can find you beautiful, perfect,
restored ’58 Speedsters all day long.”
50
I want to try and prove that it’s more obvious now as our
market starts to mature that these type cars will be much
more coveted in 10 years when we look back. I think the
unmolested, unrestored cars that haven’t been processed
through the system will be worth more in due time. A car
that shows the life it’s lived.
Seinfeld: I can tell you why that’s right. I mean, to
put it simply, they’re just so much harder to find. More
rare, more valuable, period. I can’t find you another ’58
Speedster that has been this used and sat outside and just
been a car for all these years and is still in great shape. I
couldn’t do it with an unlimited budget. But I can find you
beautiful, perfect, restored ’58 Speedsters all day long.
As could you.
So that’s why this car is more valuable to me. In fact,
forget the “me.” That’s why this car is more valuable.
Serio: I think to the conscious collector it should be
more valuable. I think that in an auction write-up or in
a private sale it is more valuable. And I’m not saying
this to be self-serving. I’m not holding a big barn full of
unrestored cars.
Seinfeld: I am.
Serio: Of course, there’s no absolute right or wrong
here with any of this stuff. That would be arrogant of us
to assume. But there is ahead and behind.
Seinfeld: We’re ahead and they’re behind. And maybe
these guys should bring a paint meter to these things.
Come on guys, it fits in your pocket.
But who knows? Maybe I’ll come to regret my rusty
neglected old lump of a Speedster. And maybe Keith
Martin will be thrilled with his liposuctioned, Botoxed,
shiny, new old Alfa.
Serio: I doubt it.
Seinfeld: Not a chance in hell. ♦
Sports Car Market
David Tomaro
Page 50
Collecting Thoughts The Value of Originality
Be That As It May...
After taking his initial shots at the ’58 Speedster sale, Miles Collier sticks
to his guns
by Miles Collier
Ultimately, the restoration argument carried the day.
Here’s why: Historic cars are documents. They offer an
artifactual narrative about design, construction, use and
function. They also offer an entropic narrative about
their travel through time: age, decay, damage and repair
and, ultimately, ruin.
I agree with Serio and Seinfeld that the Speedster in
question is a document from the time when these cars
were “just” transportation. As I said in my article, the
significance of this particular Speedster as a document
is that it speaks less to an artifactual narrative than to
the entropic process of ruin, neglect (using a car in such
a way that it comes to resemble my Stutz is, ipso facto,
neglect) and decay. Such a narrative of the car as tool
to be used is interesting, but falls short of the richness
available with a better-presenting example.
Here, I would cite the ex-Bruce Jennings, ex-Dave
Editor’s note: The best part of working at SCM is the civilized — yet stimulating —
exchange of ideas and opinions, which is becoming a rarity on this planet. We thought
a response from Miles Collier would add to the conversation.
to my analysis.
I think the issues might be addressed in three parts as follows:
First is the argument that this car runs and handles well.
“D
Without driving the car myself, I can’t assess just how well it
performs. I’ve driven a bunch of Speedsters on the road and
racetrack. I will say that Porsche’s unibody tub maintains acceptably
good handling even when it has been severely compromised
by corrosion.
My cousin’s ’58 Super I referenced in the article very much
e gustibus non est disputandum” would seem to govern this Porsche
Speedster. I have the highest regard and respect for Mr. Serio as an
expert and for Mr. Seinfeld as a committed and knowledgeable collector.
I have read their comments with interest, and, alas, still cleave
Coleman, ’59 GT Carrera Speedster that spent its whole
life as one of Bruce’s racing Speedsters. It was never
crashed, had all-original paint, interior and trim, and
was a marvel of historic preservation and subtle patina.
Both its artifactual and entropic narratives are present
to appropriate and thrilling degrees. To my mind, that
car is the ideal against which all Speedsters should be
measured.
Essentially, restoration is indicated when the docu-
resembled the subject car in specifications and condition. Bill
put over 100,000 miles on the thing, leaving a little trail of rust
flakes behind him all the way. I have driven a ’60 Super 90 coupe
where one had to be careful as a passenger to not let one’s feet
drop through the holes in the floor. The sight of asphalt flying by
a few inches below the seat was a strange and unsettling experience,
as one’s mind turned to the seat possibly departing from
its moorings in a downward direction. For all that, the car didn’t
handle too badly.
My personal experience buying, selling, racing and restoring 356s is that if you
“At some price, I love this
car and would be happy to
own it, even if I could only
change the oil and adjust
the valves. ... But for me, the
number at which I’d want
to own this car is vastly less
than the hammer price.”
see body distortions and discolorations caused by rust, your car has serious needs.
Can the car run like this? Sure, witness my cousin’s 100,000 miles of daily use in his
ratty old car.
Second is the argument that there are very few Speedsters left that haven’t seen
either the restorer or the junk yard. I don’t fool around much in the 356 market these
days, but I’ll stipulate to that reality. That argument is a bit of a distraction from the
real issue, though. Some years ago, I bought a very complete ’29 Stutz Blackhawk
Speedster very much like our subject Porsche, with the exception that the Stutz had
no structural rust, just surface corrosion where weather had gotten between the paint
and the body. In places the paint, both the original factory color and the 50-year-old
repaint, was falling off in sheets. The interior had been poorly redone decades ago,
trim was all there but rusted or, in the case of pot metal, exploding with corrosion.
The same “not many left like this” argument held for the Stutz. I walked around
that thing for a year trying to figure out how to conserve it rather than restore it.
52
ment represented by the car in its unrestored state is
less complete than the document it
offers when restored.
Now, here is where opinions
differ, and from whence comes my
opening comment. Documentary
value and significance ultimately
lie in the mind of the beholder.
If the tale this car tells of its life
as daily
beater
is compelling,
and in one sense I resonate to it,
then buy the car; own it and enjoy
it for what it is. Recall again my
cousin’s 100,000-mile career as a
daily Porsche Speedster driver.
Finally comes the implicit
argument that this transaction is
normative, reflecting the sense of the market, as none of
these philosophical arguments take place in the abstract.
There was an auction, after all. We need to turn to the
deal itself.
At some price, I love this car and would be happy to
own it, even if I could only change the oil and adjust the
valves. Such a car would be a deep memory dive into
my college years in the ’60s. But for me, the number
at which I’d want to own this car is vastly less than the
hammer price.
Let me suggest a thought experiment: Imagine
putting the car back up at auction 50 times. Will the
Gooding hammer price manifest itself again? Despite
the fact that there had to be an underbidder in the room
in August who also liked this car hugely, I’d bet no. ♦
Sports Car Market
Brian Henniker, courtesy of Gooding & Company
Page 52
Simon Says Simon Kidston
2015: The Year that Was
What’s on the road ahead, with an eye on the rear view mirror…
Get ready for $20 beers, $500-a-night closets pretend-
ing to be hotel rooms, and more cruise-ship tourists than
James Bonds outside the famous casino, but the mixture
of money, mystery, romance and high octane makes for a
heady cocktail.
My tip for the weekend? Watch established local player
Bonhams go head-to-head with relative latecomer RM
Sotheby’s for auction supremacy this year. Then enjoy the
1970s F1 race from a terrace with a view and something
chilled to keep you cool.
And nowhere does louche cool like Monaco.
The Mille Miglia? Get your entry in quickly for “the
world’s most beautiful race,” preferably at the wheel of
something loud and Italian (which charmingly describes
most crews), but don’t forget the more competitive Tour
Auto across France, or The Flying Scotsman for pre-war
cars, which I’m eager to sample.
Into the summer, and anyone who’s anyone in the
old-car fraternity can’t afford to miss Pebble Beach. With
three cars completing epic restorations to supervise and
fly over, the pressure’s already on for my team and me.
Buying and selling
The big question on SCMers’ lips, of course, is what
Car shopping in the City of Light — does it get any better?
want to buy or sell a car, it gets the job done, like a giant sausage machine: Cars go in at
one end, dollars come out at the other. I’d guess that buck for buck, it’s the most lucrative
week in the old-car world. Oh, and the folks back home get to share your triumph — or
squirming — live on TV.
See you there.
Cavallino? Glitzy Palm Beach will give Arizona’s sunny skies a run for their money
B
if you’re after a welcome escape from winter misery. If you harbor a secret Ferrari
“books and tools” fetish, you’ll probably be too busy hyperventilating at the sight of
them all proudly laid out for your perverse pleasure to notice the resort’s Old World
charms. Think Disneyland for hedge fund tycoons, overrun by excited Ferrari owners
mangling Italian words as they vie for unpronounceable trophies and the best Italian
restaurant tables.
It’s addictive.
The charms of Paris, despite tragic recent events, have seduced Americans for gen-
erations. Husbands seldom need much excuse to tempt their wives to join them for the
Rétromobile show held in the French capital early in February, and the announcement
that one of the most exciting motorcars ever to come to auction will be sold there — the
fire-breathing Ferrari 335S sports-racer which took Count Wolfgang von Trips to 2nd
overall in the ’57 Mille Miglia — should ensure standing room only on the evening.
Don’t miss it.
Another favorite, with equally superlative food but rather more challenging access,
is the Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance on the shores of Lake Como in May. This ultraexclusive
gathering hasn’t yet announced special classes, but your emcee can reveal that
cars of the stars, rally icons, coachbuilt one-offs and pre-war supercars will feature.
Neighbor George Clooney might pop in for a coffee — Nespresso, what else?
Even more inaccessible — no, not the tickets, just gridlocked traffic since 1929 — the
Monaco Historic Grand Prix is another must if you haven’t been before.
54
y the time you read this, you’ll have already turned the page to 2016 and will be
planning your motoring adventures for the coming season.
Scottsdale? It’s the oldest, brashest and biggest auction extravaganza of them
all — without much sugar coating for culture, history or elegance. But if you
surprises the market holds in store for 2016.
Recently in London, I hosted a symposium to celebrate
the first anniversary of our K500 index, inviting art and
watch experts to share insights into their fields, too. We’ve
all seen the same polarization, with the best still setting
records and the rest starting to slow.
Year on year, the top 500 models that make up our
index increased in value by 9% in 2015. A year ago it was
9%, compared to 14% in 2013 and 15% in 2012. Some
models soared (the Miura and Aurelia Spyder America,
for example) whilst others had a soft landing (300SLs and
the Carrera RS led the way).
We’ve seen auction records for unrepeatable cars — a
barn-find California Spyder with celebrity provenance,
an ex-Works Aston Ulster, and almost anything driven or
just blessed by Steve McQueen or the pope.
Yet the proportion of cars not reaching their average
pre-sale estimate (100% — not a misprint — at one recent
auction) has soared, as the art market has recently discovered.
Savvy sellers, take note.
In memoriam
Before signing off, I’d like to pay tribute to some of the
many great names we lost in 2015: F1 drivers Jean-Pierre
Beltoise (a personal friend) and the young Jules Bianchi,
F1 team founder Guy Ligier, Grand Prix design genius
Gérard Ducarouge, legendary historian Ronald “Steady”
Barker, pioneering female driver Denise McCluggage,
modest tire tycoon François Michelin, 1950s Aston
Martin Works driver Eric Thompson, rally star Erik
“On the Roof” Carlsson and, of course, King of the
Kustomizers George Barris. Thank you for brightening
up all those childhood Saturday TV mornings, George.
2016? Let the show begin… ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 56
Feature 2015 Cobble Beach Concours
A Great Setting for Great Cars
Every vehicle can be viewed in an artful setting on Georgian Bay
by Mark Moskowitz
Best of Show — 1938 Graham 97 supercharged cabriolet with coachwork by Saoutchik
T
he Queen Elizabeth Way was established in 1937. This limited-access, high-speed
thoroughfare was Canada’s first. Despite the system’s fabulous expansion, it does
not quite reach Owen Sound and the Cobble Beach Concours.
Cobble Beach takes place about 100 miles from Toronto International Airport
and the nearby metropolis. The last half of the trip traverses rural roads and tiny townships.
Isolation impedes access just a bit — but is part of the charm of the event and
locale.
A few reached Cobble Beach on a four-day Two Nations Tour from the United States
to Canada, which features visits to major museums (Indy, ACD and the Gilmore) and
private collections. Most concours visitors lodge in Owen Sound, a quaint bayside town.
A Saturday morning tour along lakeside cliffs and through open country — emphasis
on a heavy right foot — attracted many more collector cars than entered on Concours
Sunday. Drivers of Lambos to Marmons enjoyed a vintage ice cream shop and salmon
run.
Those left behind could sedately explore named trails along Georgian Bay, art dis-
plays and a museum tent filled with unusual vehicles from both Canadian coasts and the
United States. A third option was blasting through 25 miles of lonely countryside in a
fleet of new Porsches and Cadillacs.
Saturday afternoon seminars on the history of the Mustang and Cadillac styling at-
tracted many. Hagerty’s panel on “emerging” collector cars and motorcycles attracted
more. Later, principal event sponsor Cadillac opened its tent, and an even bigger crowd
enjoyed food, libations and rarely seen GM heritage cars, including the Cadillac Ciel
concept car from the “Entourage” movie.
This Canadian concours is in its third year and is known for its 23 classes. The grounds
easily accommodated the cars, motorcycles, vendor displays and crowds. The waterfront
resort is stunning, and virtually every vehicle can be viewed in an artful setting. Photo
opportunities were great, thanks to a sun low in the sky because of the northern location
and the approaching Autumnal Equinox.
Displayed at the concours entrance on September 12
Details
Plan ahead: The 2016 Cobble
Beach Concours is scheduled for
September 17–18, 2016
Where: Cobble Beach, Kemble,
Ontario, CAN
Admission: $30 Canadian ($22.50
in U.S. funds)
Web: www.cobblebeachconcours.com
58
was the magnesium-alloy-bodied 1934 Bugatti Aerolithe
coupe, a unique re-creation that has traveled to shows
around the world but was built in Ontario. It was not
judged, but concours organizers awarded it “Poetry in
Motion.”
Groupings included hot rods, wooden boats and a
crowded Vintage Pickup Class. The 1936 Ford of Everett
Hessels won the Pickup Class. The Race Car Class featured
cars from Can-Am, Formula One, hillclimbs and
Outstanding Pre-War — 1938 Bugatti Type 57C
Sports Car Market
SCCA competition. The winner was a Kurtis 500J, a
veteran of the 1959 and 1960 Indianapolis 500s. Owner
Michael Bigioni of Uxbridge, Ontario, campaigns the car
regularly in its accurate and attractive period livery.
It was no surprise that the 1938 Bugatti Type 57C of
Dr. Richard Workman was awarded Outstanding Pre-War
car. Post-War honors belonged to Mark James and his
Studebaker Golden Hawk.
Best of Show was the 1938 Graham 97 supercharged
cabriolet with coachwork by Saoutchik, a striking and
unusual shark-nosed vehicle owned by Edgar Masters of
New York and prepared by RM Auto Restorations.
The cream-colored Graham was featured at the 1938
Paris Auto Salon. Parallel sliding doors, a three-position
convertible top and a dorsal fin were but a few of its highlights.
The Sunnybrook Hospital Foundation was again the
favored charity benefiting from auction and other proceeds.
Two Jay Leno Big Dog Garage tours each netted
$6,742 toward the goal of moving a helipad to the hospital
rooftop from 1,640 feet away.
A worthy final mention is the receipt of the Lee Iacocca
Award by Chief Judge John Carlson. Such recognition
will not take place in North America after this year. Mr.
Carlson presides over multiple North American shows,
and he has organized car clubs into a single unit with
significant political horsepower in his native Canada. ♦
Mark Moskowitz
David N. Sherry
Page 58
Feature 2015 Winter Park Concours
Just Getting Warmed Up
Gearheads steal a little bit
of summer and bask in the
glow of fantastic Packards
Story and Photos by Bill Rothermel
Rick Schmidt’s 1956 Packard 400 hard-top coupe — Best in Class in 1940–58 Packard category
played host to the 14th edition of this show, which is billed as Central Florida’s Premier
Motoring Event.
Packard and the Ford Thunderbird were featured marques for the 2015 Winter Park
Y
Concours on November 13–15. New this year was the duPont Registry exotic-car display
that included Robert Stockman’s 2013 TZ3 Zagato-bodied Alfa Romeo 8C.
This marked the second year the Winter Park Country Club hosted the concours. In
2014, the concours changed from a free public street event to a gated paid-admission affair,
which includes live entertainment, a hospitality village and beverage stations along
with the expanded format.
The 2015 show field expanded to six fairways and more than 150 cars, motorcycles
and wooden boats.
Friday night’s duPont Registry Live Aeroport Reception at the Orlando Sanford
International Airport offered high-speed rides in one of six supercars with a professional
driver to benefit the Kids House of Seminole.
Saturday’s Tour d’Elegance ended with lunch at the Winter Park Country Club.
Ralph Marano was honored as Collector of the Year, Wayne Carini of TV’s “Chasing
Classic Cars” served as Honorary Chief Judge and Amelia Island founder Bill Warner
was Grand Marshal.
Marano displayed four Packards from his vast collection, including the 1954 Panther
Daytona and 1953 Monte Carlo concept cars, Clark Gable’s 1937 Darrin convertible, and an
amazing one-off 1935 Eight 1201 Convertible Victoria crafted by Swiss coachbuilder Graber.
Judge’s Choice was awarded to the just-restored Tuxedo Black 1963 Chevrolet
Corvette Fuelie owned by Kirk Brooks.
David Salzman’s 1958 Dual-Ghia D-500 convertible
Details
Plan ahead: The next Winter
Park Concours is scheduled for
November 19–20, 2016
Where: The Winter Park Country
Club, Winter Park, FL
Admission: $30
Web: www.winterparkconcours.com
60
took Best in Class honors in the American Open Car
class, and the HVA Award was deservedly presented to
Richard Marr’s 1914 Buick Cyclecar.
Marr’s grandfather was Walter Marr, Buick’s chief
engineer, who designed and built the tandem 2-seater as a
prototype that never entered production. Amazingly, the
car retains its original interior and remains in the same
family 101 years later.
Pete and Michele Archibald took the Best in Class
ou can’t beat the weather in Florida in November, and this year’s Winter Park
Concours d’Elegance provided a welcome respite from the falling temperatures
in most of the United States.
The charming town of Winter Park, not far from Walt Disney World,
Award with a beautifully restored all-black 1951 pre-A
in the 356 Porsche Class, while 94-year-old Rodolfo
d’LaVega received the Best in Class trophy for the 1952
Ferrari 212 Inter Ghia he has owned since 1952.
Chairman’s Choice — and Best in Class Award in
American Classic Open Cars — went to the Sumac Red
1948 Chrysler Town & Country convertible owned by
Donald and Mary Kay Poinsette.
Brad and Marilyn Bean’s 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
Nomad received the Best in Class Award in American
Production Automobiles Closed.
Rick Schmidt’s gorgeous 1956 Packard 400 hard-top
coupe took Best in Class in the 1940–1958 Packard category.
Special Peacock Awards went to:
• The 1929 Duesenberg J convertible sedan by
Murphy from the collection of Steve Wolf.
• The 1956 Lincoln Premier convertible — painted
a stunning Island Coral — from the collection of
Warren Wubker.
• A 1929 Ruxton sedan presented by the Cerf Family.
Sunday’s concours concluded with a champagne toast
celebrating the Best of Show Winners: a 1935 Rolls-Royce
Phantom II Continental by Binder from the collection of
Steve Wolf and the 1932 Packard 901 formal sedan owned
by Richard Mitchell. ♦
Robert Stockman’s 2013 TZ3 Zagato-bodied Alfa Romeo 8C
Sports Car Market
Page 60
Feature 2015 Hilton Head Island Motoring Festival & Concours d’Elegance
It Just Keeps Getting Better
This first-class event should
be on your calendar
Story and Photos by Bill Rothermel
Helping celebrate 100 years of BMW — Elliott Schnackenberg’s rare 1968 BMW Glas 1600 GT
I
have a confession. I’ve not been to the Hilton Head Island Concours weekend since
2006.
Last time I was there it was held at the Honey Horn Plantation — now relegated
to satellite parking.
Although this was the 14th Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance, this was the third time
the concours has been held on the grounds of the Port Royal Golf Club. The transformation
from nearly 10 years ago is nothing short of remarkable. This is one first-class event
that deserves to be on everyone’s calendar — it is most certainly on mine from here on
in.
The Motoring Festival, which spans nine days, began with the three-day Savannah
Speed Classic on October 23 and culminated with Sunday’s concours on November 1.
The concours weekend also included:
• The Flights & Fancy Aeroport Gala/Aero Expo displaying some 20 vintage aircraft,
and Saturday’s Car Club Showcase, which featured the national meet for the
Volvo Club of America.
• An Auctions America auction at the Westin Resort. The entire concours weekend
featured ride-and-drive events from various manufacturers.
Perfect weather greeted visitors for the duration, including the November 6 Hilton
Head Island Concours d’Elegance, which highlighted 100 Years of BMW, Chrysler
automobiles, Shelby’s 50th anniversary, and the Porsche Turbo. Collectors Tom Gerrard
and Fred Guyton were recognized as well, with Gerrard as the Honored Collector and
Guyton receiving the Pinnacle Award.
Concours Sunday also marked the final presentation of the Lee Iacocca Award, which
was given to Bill and Christine Snyder, noted collectors from Hudson, OH.
Three cars competed for the coveted Best in Show Award. Joe and Margie Cassini’s
1933 Chrysler Custom Imperial phaeton by LeBaron secured
the top prize. It was designed by LeBaron’s Ralph
Roberts as a gift for his wife.
The other two contenders were Dr. Rick Workman’s 1939
Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster by Sindelfingen,
and David and Doreen Salzman’s 1957 Dual-Ghia convertible.
The Mercedes-Benz 540K received the People’s Choice
Award, and the Dual-Ghia was honored with the Founders
Award.
More than 110 cars among the show field of 220 received
honors during ceremonies that lasted throughout the afternoon.
Notables included:
62
Details
Plan ahead: The next Hilton Head
Island Motoring Festival and
Concours d’Elegance is scheduled
for October 28 through November
6, 2016.
Where: Port Royal Golf Club, Hilton
Head Island, SC, and Savannah,
GA
Admission: Various ticket prices and
packages are available
Web: www.hhiconcours.com
• Best in Class Pre-1916 — 3-Cylinder and Greater
went to the 1911 EMF racer owned by Dale Critz Jr.
Critz’s car originally raced in the Great Savannah
Races.
• A Palmetto Award in the Honored Marque –
Chrysler Classics went to the very rare 1935
Chrysler Imperial Airflow coupe displayed courtesy
of John and Lynn Heimerl.
• Best in Class Chrysler Corp. Woodies went to Paul
Storch’s 1947 Chrysler Town & Country sedan.
• Best in Class Classics 1930–32 went to Mark
Hyman’s 1932 Duesenberg J.
• Preservation to 1953 Best in Class and Most
Outstanding Original Vehicle went
to Rick and
Elaine Schmidt’s time-capsule 1940 Lincoln
Continental coupe.
• American Performance — Non-Chrysler Corporation:
A Palmetto Award went to the 1967 Chevrolet Impala
SS 427 convertible owned by Douglas Van Kalker.
Best in Class went to Mark James’ freshly restored
1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk.
• Best in Class Sports Car International went to the
Ingram Collection’s 1955 Porsche 356 Continental
coupe.
• Best in Class Sports Car Ferrari to the 1963 Ferrari
250 SWB California Spyder from the collection of
Dr. Rick Workman.
• Several notable BMWs in the 100th Anniversary
Class:
Palmetto Awards went
to Elliott
Schnackenberg for his 1968 BMW 1600 GT and the
1958 BMW 502 sedan of Lothar Schuettler. Best
in Class went to Dirk and Alexandra de Groen for
their 1937 BMW 328 Roadster.
• Best in Class Shelby 50th Anniversary went to the
1965 GT350 of Phil and Linda Pickens.
Do make sure to mark your calendars for this note-
worthy event, which will feature a national meet of the
Horseless Carriage Club of America for 2016. ♦
Sports Car Market
with SWBs. Non-racers were buying SWBs, emulating their racing
heroes. The racing landscape was changing though, and dual-purpose
cars were no longer competitive with the factory prepared racing
variations. A new era had arrived.
Enter the 250 GT/L
Rather than replace the 250 SWB with another dual-purpose car,
Ferrari replaced it with two models. For the serious racer, Ferrari offered
the fire-breathing 250 GTO. For the GT driver, the new 250 GT/L
was introduced.
The 250 GTE had been a huge hit for Ferrari. Clients liked the idea of
having a civilized derivative of a Ferrari’s race car. They liked that the
GTE could be used as normal transportation, but the 2+2 configuration
was a little too civilized for some clients. The 250 GT/L was introduced
for these clients.
The L in 250 GT/L stands for Lusso. Lusso means luxury, which is
a misleading descriptor of the new model. While the GT/L was less
spartan than the SWB, it was by no means cushy. The seats were formfitting
buckets that sat right on the floor. It took some agility to get into
the car — and even more to get out. The steering wheel was a reach
away rather than the in-your-chest position that was popular with other
sports cars of the period.
The car was noisy, stiff — and completely representative of a proper
Ferrari Berlinetta driving experience.
Luxurious to see
The aesthetics of the Lusso is where the luxury is found. Like haute
couture fashion, details of design and execution merge to where the
result exceeds the sum of the parts.
My wife was sitting next to Chuck Jordan, the late GM vice president
of design, at a dinner years ago. She had no idea who he was, but we
were at a Maranello event, so the conversation was Ferraris. She asked
him which was his favorite Ferrari and why. He was
complimentary about several Pininfarina designs but
chose the Lusso as his favorite.
Jordan said the car’s lines flowed near perfectly from
front to rear. He liked the ratio of glass to metal, and
he especially liked the slight lift of the horizontal line
as it reached the trailing edge. He noted that he found
the center gauge cluster a bit impractical, but he liked
that the designer was willing to take a risk to make the
car more fun.
It’s interesting to note that the Chevy Vega, which was
designed on Jordan’s watch, has a rear end that looks
suspiciously similar to the Lusso’s rear.
Welcome to the big time
August 16, 2007, was a gold-star day for Lusso owners.
Christie’s Monterey Jet Center auction was in full swing,
February 2016
67
with a Chestnut Brown 1963 Ferrari Lusso taking center stage. The Lusso
had once belonged to Steve McQueen, and there was electricity in the
room anticipating the sale.
At the time, $500,000 would have bought a Pebble Beach Lusso. The
car came to the stage with an estimate of $800,000 to $1,200,000. Not
long after, it exited with a staggering sale price of $2,310,000.
Obviously it was the car’s star status rather than model type that fu-
eled the insanity, but few people in the room that day would have believed
that the Lusso would prove to be a sound purchase rather than folly.
Completely unscientifically, I also mark that sale as the point where
billionaires’ bank books rather than logic took over the high-end
Ferrari market.
Over the next seven years, Lusso values began a meteoric rise.
High prices brought Lussos out of the woodwork, into the restora-
tion shops and onto the auction floors. In 2014, there were at least four
Lussos at the Monterey auctions, with one topping the McQueen sale
at $2,365,000.
Well bought and sold
SCM’s Paul Hardiman examined Lusso 5885 at RM Sotheby’s sale.
He noted minor wear but otherwise found a proper car. In 2014 I would
have called 5885 a $2,000,000-plus car. Supply appears to have exceeded
demand lately, and despite a $2,300,000 sale a couple of months
back, prices just below $2 million seem to be the new norm.
There has been little logic to Ferrari pricing for several years.
Sellers find the highest price noted for a similar model and ask more.
There’s little reference to the condition or provenance — they just ask
more and often have gotten it.
In this case, the buyer was able to acquire a car based on its condi-
tion and real value rather than setting a new record and hoping that
the market will follow. Both sides got what they deserved on this one. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.)
Page 66
English Profile
1935 Aston Martin Ulster 2/4 Seater Tourer
It’s not a Works version, but the buyer drives away a rare car with
competition history
by Paul Hardiman
Details
Years produced: 1934–35
Number produced: 31 (of which four were
2/4-seaters)
Original list price: £750
Chassis # location: Front nearside chassis
leg, and plate on left side of firewall
Engine # location: On ring casting holding
water pump and magneto
Distributor cap: Originally magneto, now
on coil ignition. VW Polo dizzy cap $12
Engine service and tune-up:
$1,000–$1,250
Alternatives: 1934–35 Riley MPH,
1934–36 MG N-type Magnette,
1934–36 Frazer Nash Shelsley (or
1932-38 TT replica)
SCM Investment Grade: A
Comps
Chassis number: D5570U
Engine number: D5570U
M
anufactured by Robert Bamford and Lionel
Martin, the first Aston-Martins (the hyphen
is correct for the period) rapidly established
a reputation for high performance and
sporting prowess in the years immediately following
World War I.
The foundations were laid for proper series produc-
tion with the formation of Aston Martin Motors Ltd. in
1926 under the stewardship of Augustus “Bert” Bertelli
and William Renwick. Bertelli understood the effect of
competition success on sales and sanctioned the construction
of two Works racers for the 1928 season.
The duo featured dry-sump lubrication, and this was
carried over to the International sports model manufactured
between 1929 and 1932, mostly with bodies by
Augustus’ brother Enrico “Harry” Bertelli.
The Le Mans label was first applied to the competi-
tion version of the (1st Series) International following
Aston’s class win and 5th place overall in the 1931 24
Hours of Le Mans race.
In the early 1930s the International was redesigned,
and the New International and two-seater Le Mans
disappeared before the end of 1932. That year’s Motor
Show had ushered in the Le Mans 2/4-seater, which was
also available on the long chassis as the Le Mans Special
4-seater.
Introduced in 1934, the replacement Mark II model
sported a new, stronger chassis and a revised engine
with counterbalanced crankshaft. Short (eight feet) and
long (10 feet) wheelbase versions were built, the latter
68
available with stylish 4-seater sports saloon coachwork
by Enrico Bertelli.
For the 1934 Le Mans race, three cars were con-
structed on the new Mk II chassis, but all three were
sidelined by mechanical problems, prompting Bertelli to
try and un-jinx the team by painting the cars — previously
always finished in various shades of green — in
red. The next race was the RAC Tourist Trophy at Ards
in Ulster, which stipulated standard chassis. Three new
cars were built on unmodified frames, and the superstitious
Bertelli was duly rewarded as they all finished and
earned Aston Martin the Team Prize.
In October 1934, Aston Martin exhibited the spin-off
model at the Olympia Motor Show. Built on the shorter
of the two Mk II chassis, lightweight, door-less 2-seater
bodywork was fitted and every Ulster was guaranteed to
exceed 100 mph with full road equipment.
Chassis D5570U was registered on July 17, 1935,
with a Middlesex number, CMF 764, and two days later
was delivered new to its first owner, Brooklands racer
AR (Alan) Phipps of Exeter College, Oxford. Phipps
finished 1st at the Frazer Nash Car Club’s Donington
Park meeting on March 28, 1936, winning the Stanley
Cup, and followed that up with a Special Award in the
High Speed Trial at the JCC Members’ Day meeting at
Brooklands on June 27.
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 365, sold for $1,142,377,
including buyer’s premium, at
Bonhams’ Goodwood Revival sale on September 12, 2015.
1935 Aston Martin Ulster 2-seater
Lot 323, s/n LM19
Condition 2-
Sold at $4,581,922, Bonhams, Chichester,
U.K., 6/26/15
SCM# 265790
1934 MG Magnette supercharged
Lot 137, s/n NA0484
Condition: 2Sold
at $118,250
Bonhams, Amelia Island, FL, 3/12/15
SCM# 257486
1934 Aston Martin Ulster 2-seater
Lot 16, s/n L4525U
Cond 2
Sold at $2,131,381, Bonhams, London,
U.K., 12/01/13
SCM# 231860
Sports Car Market
Simon Clay, courtesy of Bonhams
Page 67
The Ulster is a spin-off from the Aston Martin Works team’s suc-
cess in the 1954 Ards TT, where the story goes that changing of the
team cars’ color lifted the jinx that afflicted them, and the three cars
— LM15, 16 and 17 — won the team prize.
Later, LM20 finished 3rd overall at Le Mans in 1935, winning its
class and the Rudge Cup.
“Win on Sunday, sell on Monday” is a concept as old as racing itself,
and, as well as the team cars, 21 replicas were built, although in truth
they were little more than warmed-over Mk IIs.
Not a Works car
Bonhams sold one of the 2-seater Works team cars, LM19, at its
Goodwood Festival of Speed sale earlier in the year for $4,581,922.
That was $1m more than expected, thanks to good provenance and low
ownership — if not early racing success or even originality (it was
originally red) — but even the reserve price was about twice what was
paid here.
What makes that car worth twice to four times as much as this one?
There are two major differences: First, there’s a disparity between
2- and 4-seaters in the same way that convertibles of any kind regularly
sell for twice the price of their coupe siblings. For reasons of fashion
or simply folly, 2-seater versions of anything are always cooler, sexier
and many times more valuable than the 2+2 or four-seater versions
of anything (see E-type, 330 GTC, Big Healey, MG Magna and more).
This is mad when you’re riding the same hardware, but that’s market
forces for you. In the Ulster’s case, on the 2-seaters the spare wheel
lies flat, enclosed by bodywork, which gives them a slightly “pregnant
seal” look from behind. On the 2/4s the spare is exposed, mounted
vertically at the rear.
The rear body is square-profiled on the 2/4 but the chassis lengths
are the same.
The second — and more important — difference is that LM cars are
team cars, and U-suffix cars are customer cars, and in the serious collector
world, provenance is all. Our car is a customer car.
There were 10 team cars and 21 customer cars. LM19 was a genuine
factory racer, albeit with little success in its early years due to mechanical
misfortunes.
The Works built three original 2/4 seaters with special-order bodies.
Another 2-seater car had a 2/4-seater body fitted after a crash testing
at Brooklands. Of the four 2/4s, one has been converted into a 2-seater,
one now has a 2-liter engine and another is the famous “Club Ulster”
owned by the Aston Martin Owners Club since 1974. True 4-seaters
they are not, with tiny rear perches, suitable only for luggage or very
occasional passengers.
Sturdy and a bit heavy
Ulsters of any denomination are good long-distance cars. All major
working parts are secured to the chassis by castellated nuts and split
pins, and as a result they don’t fall apart and have a good survival rate.
That build quality makes them heavy for their size, however.
Of the 31 Ulsters built, 28 are still known, with a possible other car
in the United States.
Our subject car was a customer car, and after a couple of early suc-
cesses with its first owner, it succumbed to engine problems, so by late
1935 it was back at the Works to investigate low oil pressure — which
seems to have been a recurring theme with Ulsters.
The car was sold on, dismantled, after being advertised with or with-
out a supercharger, in 1936. It raced sporadically until 1977.
In December 1989, D5570U was offered for sale at a U.K. auction,
where it was purchased by businessman Eddy Shah, who’d just sold
his newspaper empire following five years of battling the print unions,
mostly over the introduction of new technology.
Original body frame and panels
Marque specialist Chris Shenton undertook a comprehensive restora-
tion to concours standard, retaining the original body frame and panels.
The restoration was completed in 1993 at a cost of £43,000 ($64,229).
In June 1997, Brooks offered the Ulster for sale at its Goodwood
auction (Lot 874), where it was purchased by the next owner, but stored
until the current owner bought it in 2002. Ecurie Bertelli then readied
the car for a period of racing and rallying (its FIA HTP and FIVA
papers date from 2005) which included a win in the St. John Horsfall
Trophy Race at Silverstone in 2006 plus long-distance rally events such
as the Scottish Malts Rally.
After that there was another complete engine rebuild, including a
new shell-bearing crankshaft, steel conrods and camshaft, in 2007 (it’s
now good for 100 bhp) and the gearbox rebuilt, but it does not appear
to have done much since.
The motor is now on coil ignition, using a modern distributor. All the
work was done by Ecurie Bertelli, where it was available privately for
sale since at least 2013. My notes say: “Good older paint, leather just
settling in, nickel-plated exhaust just taking on a bit of color.” The dash
ought to be matte black, but most of them are shiny these days.
A deal for the buyer
So, it’s had some wilderness years, but it’s quite original apart from
the wings, and the originals are included. There’s race pedigree in living
memory, and it’s eligible for all the most important historic motor
sports events including Le Mans and the Mille Miglia.
It looks cheap compared with LM19, which sold unexpectedly high,
and both are simply down to the vagaries of the auction system at work.
This car was let go some £50k ($77k) under the lower estimate of
£700k ($1.08m), because that’s all someone was prepared to pay on the
day — in an auction marquee across the road from one of the greatest
and busiest historic motorsports gatherings in the world.
It was a customer car and not a team car, the 2/4 body is considered
less attractive and desirable than the pure 2-seater, and the price…
well, that’s how the dice rolled on the day. With the last Ulster made
currently available privately (and wearing a replica 2-seater body,
for it was also once a 2/4) asking somewhere north of a million quid
($1.6m), I think the buyer here has got himself a bit of a deal. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of Bonhams.)
February 2016
69
Page 68
English Profile
The Cumberford Perspective
This 1935 Aston Martin Ulster 2/4 is the 1920s preserved
By Robert Cumberford
2
3
1
purest 1920s manner,
but the visual charm of
this Aston lies in its aura
of being a true racer’s
car: black paint instead
of bright metal, basic
cycle fenders to meet
minimum requirements,
external exhaust headers,
an external steering drop
arm, and, finally, a rakish
stance declaring it to be
all business.
It’s also charming
Y
that there are four seats,
although you’d never want
to ride in back for more
than a block or two, ideally
in downtown Carmel,
CA, where I once happily
tolerated the back of a
Ferrari Mondial on the
way to dinner, so I know
it’s a tolerable proposition
during Car Week — if
only then.
The bodywork is not
all of a piece. The hood
cross-section is nicely
trapezoidal, transitioning
into a rounded side for
the cowl and a pleasing
convexity for the door
skins. The driver’s door is
cut down in a way rarely
seen, opposite to the cut
of a T-series MG, with
an upward bump at the
back and a cutaway to th
front — who knows wh
The passenger’s door is
cut straight back, its sill
parallel to the ground,
unlike the curves of the
driver’s.
Handsome, tough, st
workable 80 years on…
what’s not to like about
this wonderful “old
crock”? ♦
es, it’s just a collection
of boxes
covering various
elements in the
4
7
6
5
FRONT 3/4 VIEW
1 This complex and
interesting door profile is an
anomaly, allowing a driver
to swing his wrists but not
his elbows.
2 The body skins bulge
outward on the cowl sides
and leading portion of the
doors.
3 Black paint here cuts
down on early-morning
reflections at Le Mans,
which is something much to
be desired.
4 Stone screens on the
headlamps are another
indication of seriously
considered preparation for a
lifetime of competition.
5 The chassis dumb-irons
may stick out beyond the
tires, but not by much.
6 The lower edge of the
chassis frame begins to
sweep upward here, but
it surely was not out of
aesthetic considerations.
7 These colored decals
are the only modern visual
elements on the entire body,
contemporary proof that this
80-plus-year-old still goes
out to run hard from time
to time.
REAR 3/4 VIEW
8 The exhaust pipes are a
proper sporting touch, but
the right-angle flow change
at the muffler looks woefully
9
10
8
inefficient.
9 The direct and uncom-
plicated door shape on the
left is in sharp contrast to
the elaborate profiling of the
driver’s door.
10 There are a pair of decidedly
“plus two” seats beneath
the neat tonneau. And
that top had to be able to be
erected for the Le Mans start
— only to be taken down
after the first on-road session
in the race.
11 The fuel tank is a
simple appended box, leaned
forward at the top to allow
a more harmonious sparewheel
mounting. So, there
was some styling awareness.
12 It may not be so, but the
long, skinny tailpipe looks to
be strangling the engine. It’s
pretty, though.
INTERIOR VIEW
(see previous page)
The instrument panel
is touchingly naïve in its
anti-ergonomic disposition
of switches, instruments,
knee-breaking obstructions,
knobs and buttons. But
doesn’t it look good, and
aren’t those solid brass hardware
elements supporting
the folding windshield, the
windscreens, mirrors, and
toggle switches reassuring?
It is certainly possible this
car will look this good when
its lifetime has doubled.
12
70
11
Sports Car Market
Page 70
Etceterini & Friends Profile
1966 Maserati Sebring 3.7 Coupe
Buyers are awakening to these cars — values have markedly increased
since 2010
by Donald Osborne
Details
Years produced: 1965–66
Number produced: 98 (Sebring II)
Original list price: $17,500
Current SCM Valuation: $145,000–
$250,000
Tune-up cost: $1,900
Distributor caps: $285
Chassis # location: Engine compartment
on firewall
Engine # location: Stamped on side
of block
Club: Maserati Club International
More: www.maseratinet.com
Alternatives: 1966 Aston Martin DB6, 1966
Ferrari 330 GTC, 1966 Lancia Flaminia
SuperSport
SCM Investment Grade: C
Comps
Chassis number: AM10110275
I
ntroduced in 1962, the Sebring was one of the final
manifestations of the landmark 3500 GT, which had
been the linchpin of Maserati’s program to establish
itself as a manufacturer of road cars. The Modena
marque’s new era began in 1957 with the launch of
the Touring-bodied 3500 GT, its first road car built in
significant numbers. A luxury 2+2, the 3500 GT drew
heavily on Maserati’s competition experience, employing
a tubular chassis frame and an engine derived from
the 350S sports car of 1956. The 3500 GT’s designer
was none other than Giulio Alfieri, creator of the immortal
Tipo 60/61 “Birdcage” sports racer and the
man responsible for developing the 250F into a World
Championship winner. The twin-overhead-camshaft,
6-cylinder engine was a close relative of that used in the
250F and developed around 220 bhp initially, with later
examples producing 235 bhp on Lucas mechanical fuel
injection.
Built on the short-wheelbase chassis of the Spyder
and likewise styled by Vignale, the Sebring 2+2 coupe
arrived in 1962. By now a 5-speed gearbox, four-wheel
disc brakes and fuel injection were standard equipment,
with automatic transmission, air conditioning and a
limited-slip differential available as options. A 3.7-liter,
245-bhp engine became available as the original developed
into the Series II (introduced in 1965), while some
cars left the factory with 4.0-liter units towards the end
of production in 1966.
A manual-transmission model, this matching-num-
bers Sebring was delivered new to an unknown Italian
owner in 1966. Between 1968 and 1984, the car was in
Parma and from ’84 to 2000 in Milan. From 2000 to
72
2014, it belonged to Dr. Noel Martine in Belgium and
since then has been owned by a Maserati collector in
Holland. The engine and fuel-injection system were
rebuilt in 1997, and the car has covered only 12,000 kilometers
(7,456 miles) since, while more recently (in 2014)
it received new tires and new brakes. Air conditioning
was installed in 2015 and a service carried out. Finished
in maroon with black leather interior, this beautiful and
rare Maserati coupe is presented in generally very good
condition and offered with Netherlands registration papers
and roadworthiness certificate.
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 15, sold for €270,250
($307,058; €1.00=$1.06), including
buyer’s premium, at Bonhams’ The Zoute Sale, Het
Zoute, The Netherlands, on October 9, 2015.
This month’s profile assignment immediately made
me think of “A Tale of Three GTs.” You know — “They
were the best of cars, they were the worst of cars. They
were the wisest of investments, they were the most foolish
of investments…” I will spare us all the pain and not
stretch this any further.
One of the more fascinating pursuits among collec-
tors and would-be collectors in the past few years has
been the search for the next mover. That elusive diamond
hidden in plain sight that had been overlooked by
a distracted market and was ready to jump in value. A
car you just couldn’t lose money on.
Just about everyone, including myself, has long thought
most Maseratis to be undervalued. Of course, even the
term is misleading, as no single observer gets to decide
what the correct value of any object should be. That’s the
Sports Car Market
1967 Maserati Sebring
Lot 247, s/n 10535
Condition 2Sold
at $77,000
RM Auctions, Phoenix, AZ, 1/20/11
SCM# 168747
1969 Maserati Sebring Series II
Lot 12, s/n AM101S10683
Condition 2
Sold at $244,166
Bonhams, Knokke-Heist, BEL, 10/10/14
SCM# 255936
1963 Maserati Sebring
Lot 242, s/n 1817
Condition 2+
Sold at $284,235
Bonhams, Chichester, U.K., 9/13/14
SCM# 256038
Dirk de Jager, courtesy of Bonhams
Page 71
role of the market, and all we can do is offer a humble opinion.
I’ve often stated and written, to boring excess, that while prices in
the market don’t always follow logic, it always pays to look to the fundamentals
when examining why certain cars appreciate more quickly
and steadily than others. Rarity, beauty, historic significance, marque
history and reputation, along with usability, drive the bus — and the
combination determines the destination.
Three 1966 GT cars
It’s instructive to compare the relative market values of three 1966
GT cars — all built in limited numbers and aimed somewhat at the
same consumer. “Somewhat” because two of our GTs make do with
DOHC inline 6-cylinder engines while the third doubles down with 12
pots in a Vee — but with a mere SOHC per bank. The cars are the
Maserati Sebring, the Aston Martin DB6 and the Ferrari 330 GTC.
While Maserati and Aston had been absent from competition for
years by 1966, their reputations still rested on their prowess on the
track, and that gave an aura of glamour to their GT cars.
The 3.7-L Sebring put out 255 horsepower, while the 3.9-L Aston
had 286 horsepower. Ferrari, of course, was still all about competition.
The buyer who chose the 330 GTC was generally someone who
was a more aggressive sort, and the 3,967-cc 12 was the most powerful
engine at 300 horsepower. But they’re all in the same ballpark, and the
330 GTC was intended to be a gentlemen’s express, rather subtle and
conservative in styling — and with the wide seats captains of industry
required.
Values creeping closer
Looking at the past five years, all three cars have increased mark-
edly. The Ferrari has seen a fourfold increase from 2010 to 2015 but
has begun to plateau a bit, with cars being available in the $800k range
after regularly breaking the $1m mark. Aston prices have been buoyant
for years, and the DB6 has gone up about 1.5 times in the period, while
the Sebring has seen a 3.5-fold increase. More interestingly, in 2010
the typical DB6 sold for more than three times as much as a Sebring,
whereas now it’s closer to 1.5 times as expensive.
As someone with seat time in all three cars, I can state with some
confidence that it comes down to individual preference. Each car will
deliver an entertaining, comfortable driving experience and is rare
enough to excite both owner and observer. They are excellent representations
of the best of what their brands have to offer. If any meet
your needs, they’re likely to bring value and enjoyment in use and be
reasonable financial risks as well.
While larger trends can be seen in the current market, increasingly
they are countered by a very individual, car-specific dynamic. It’s
about the condition, history and location of a particular car and the
needs and desires of a potential buyer at a precise moment.
Just because one totally original car in Silver sells in New York City
on this date for this price doesn’t mean the same model, completely restored
in Dark Blue, would bring the same price in Paris a month later.
Sebrings on the rise
Trusted eyes on the scene in Belgium described this Maserati to me
as being in “very good condition, mostly restored but with some original
bright trim pieces in very good condition — no signs of any rust or
corrosion and the car performed well on a brief drive.”
So it wasn’t a super-fresh concours restoration, but a very present-
able, well-cared-for car in good colors. It is not a superstar, but it also
is not a need-filled project. As such, the price achieved seems to be in
line with where the Sebrings have been moving. The world seems to be
awakening to these terrific cars. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of Bonhams.)
February 2016
73
Page 72
German Profile
Column Author
2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Pedestrian looks and looming electronics problems hold down values for this
supercar
by Pierre Hedary
Details
Years produced: 2003–10
Number produced: 2,282
Original list price: $495,000 (2009 roadster)
Current SCM Valuation: $195,000–
$385,000
Tune up cost: $6,000
Chassis # location: On engine firewall and
on radiator support
Engine # location: Rear of cylinder block
on left side
Club: Mercedes-Benz Club of America
More: MBCA.org
Alternatives: 2012–14 Mercedes-Benz SL63
AMG, 2004–16 Aston Martin DB9,
2006–12 Ferrari 599 GTB
SCM Investment Grade: D
Comps
Chassis number: WDDAJ76F25M000450
T
his SLR is effectively a brand-new car. With only
4,300 miles over 10 years, this SLR is virtually
flawless. Amenities include a Bose surround-sound
stereo system with six-disk changer, F1 paddle
shift, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone climate control and
adaptive cruise control. Also included are the optional 19inch
silver forged aluminum wheels. This car is absolutely
spectacular in Crystal Laurite Silver exterior with a flawless
leather interior in 300SL Red. Carefully stored and
maintained since new, this is an incredible opportunity to
secure perhaps the finest GT supercar of the past decade.
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 11, sold for $407,000,
including buyer’s commission,
at
Motostalgia’s Grand Prix auction in Austin, TX, on
November 7, 2015.
The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren was supposed to
be quite a car. For some it was the consolation prize in
lieu of the CLK-GTR, and for others it was (kind of, sort
of) the successor to the McLaren F1. Because it lacked
the wild looks of the GTR, and it was simply nothing like
the legendary F1, it never generated the lasting impact
that Daimler Benz hoped. Anyone who doesn’t know
what the SLR is would probably mistake it for an SL550.
The question here is: Does the McLaren name, the
eccentric nasal protrusion and the limited production
make this a Mercedes with long-term collectability, or
is it an overdone French pastry of a car that performs
comparably to an SL63 AMG? Note that the SL63 originally
sold for much less.
74
Filet Mignon between white bread
As someone who loves mechanical excellence, I have
to admit that the mechanical package of the SLR is magnificent.
The supercharged V8 is based on the robust
Mercedes M113 engine, and its bespoke engineering
cues make it unique to the SLR. It’s a shame it isn’t sitting
in the rear of a car that resembles the F1 or the
CLK-GTR. Top end is just about 200 mph, with 0–60
mph acceleration in less than 3.5 seconds.
However, a supercar needs to look outrageous. If
Mercedes had followed the lead of
the Ford GT, the
Porsche Carrera GT or the Bugatti Veyron, the SLR
would have sold the anticipated 5,000 units.
Its most innocuous design attribute was the fact it
emulated a production Mercedes. It strongly resembles
the AMG R230 SLs. Because the SLR didn’t bring a
completely new visual package to the table, it did not
have the supercar effect. Mercedes has a tendency to
manufacture automotive forms with conservative design
principles — while withholding their exciting prototypes
(think C111 and C112) from production.
How long until the milk spoils?
One of the perks of dealing with modern Mercedes is
the inevitable failure of their electronic controls. I have
seen various columnists speculate about this issue, but
I’m going to tell you bluntly: Mercedes-Benz electronics
from this era are fragile, nearly impossible to repair
(believe me, I am being optimistic) and will not be reissued
like parts for the W113 or W107 SLs. The SLR, or
any Mercedes product from this era, will swarm with
2007 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Lot 128, s/n WDD1994761M001547
Condition 1Sold
at $308,365
Bonhams, Stuttgart, DEU, 3/28/15
SCM# 264637
2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Lot 120, s/n WDDAJ45M000305
Condition 1Sold
at $209,000
Bonhams, Scottsdale, AZ, 1/15/15
SCM# 256911
2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
Lot S718, s/n WDDAJ76F75M000542
Condition 1
Not sold at $195,000
Russo and Steele, Newport Beach, CA,
6/20/14
SCM# 244398
Sports Car Market
Courtesy of Motostalgia
Page 73
calamities once the various modules fail and its CAN wiring begins to
biodegrade.
While some very enthusiastic electrical engineering student may
come up with repairs for various circuit-board failures, once the wiring
dies off, you have a yard ornament. And even now, finding a dealer
tech at any Mercedes service facility that can repair this car, diagnose
its electronic trouble codes and get to the root of its issues will be a
challenge.
If you want an example, consider the SLR’s electronic spoiler that
elevates at about 75 mph. This is a great example of technology that almost
no one will be able to service in 10 years when it starts acting up.
Not a race car or the Uhlenhaut coupe
When Mercedes starts building different limited editions of a limited
production car, it shows how
despera
it. In t
adverti
mities once the various modules fail and its CAN wiring begins to
biodegrade.
While some very enthusiastic electrical engineering student may
come up with repairs for various circuit-board failures, once the wir-
ing dies off, you have a yard ornament. And even now, finding a dealer
tech at any Mercedes service facility that can repair this car, diagnose
its electronic trouble codes and get to the root of its issues will be a
challenge.
If you want an example, consider the SLR’s electronic spoiler that
elevates at about 75 mph. This is a great example of technology that al-
most no one will be able to service in 10 years when it starts acting up.
Not a race car or the Uhlenhaut coupe
When Mercedes starts building different limited editions of a limited
production car, it shows how
despera
it. In t
adverti
ment
ment sa
meant t
the foo
Uhlenh
I’m ass
reader w
Merced
Herr U
you don
The s
most li
the 300
an allo
NSL ca
McLare
the 300
cubic
lamities once the various modules fail and its CAN wiring begins to
biodegrade.
While some very enthusiastic electrical engineering student may
come up with repairs for various circuit-board failures, once the wir-
ing dies off, you have a yard ornament. And even now, finding a dealer
tech at any Mercedes service facility that can repair this car, diagnose
its electronic trouble codes and get to the root of its issues will be a
challenge.
If you want an example, consider the SLR’s electronic spoiler that
elevates at about 75 mph. This is a great example of technology that al-
most no one will be able to service in 10 years when it starts acting up.
Not a race car or the Uhlenhaut coupe
When Mercedes starts building different limited editions of a limited
production car, it shows how
despera
it. In t
adverti
ment sa
meant t
the foo
Uhlenh
I’m ass
reader w
Merced
Herr U
you don
The s
most li
the 300
an allo
NSL ca
McLare
the 300
cubic
is
is to a r
mond.
Just l
there a
who w
lots o
for Beanie Babies and Matchbox cars, there are those who will buy
pickled SLR 722 edition cars for top money. The SLR 722 edition was
Mercedes’ attempt at making the SLR look cool and outrageous by cutting
the roof off. I had a friend from the U.K. who did this to Morris
Marinas, and everyone noticed him, too — but only for driving a car
without a roof or windscreen of any sort.
Classic Mercedes are better investments
The real-world market for an SLR coupe lies in the $200k–$300k
range with a few outliers. These cars were almost never driven when
new, and most of them have about 10,000 miles.
They sold for about $500k new, which means they have lost around
50% of their value since, but it is really too soon to tell. If you happen
to like the SLR and want to own one, make sure you own the following
collectible Mercedes-Benz
00SL (if
, a solid
, someg
like a
d a modern
o use as a
R should
s a depred
not as
f you’re
chanical
t is in the
calamitie
alamities once the v
amities once the various modules fail and its CAN wiring begins to
biodegrade.
While some very enthusiastic electrical engineering student may
come up with repairs for various circuit-board failures, once the wir-
ing dies off, you have a yard ornament. And even now, finding a dealer
tech at any Mercedes service facility that can repair this car, diagnose
its electronic trouble codes and get to the root of its issues will be a
challenge.
If you want an example, consider the SLR’s electronic spoiler that
elevates at about 75 mph. This is a great example of technology that al-
most no one will be able to service in 10 years when it starts acting up.
Not a race car or the Uhlenhaut coupe
When Mercedes starts building different limited editions of a limited
production car, it shows how
despera
it. In t
adverti
ment sa
meant t
the foo
Uhlenh
I’m ass
reader w
Merced
Herr U
you don
The s
most li
the 300
an allo
NSL ca
McLare
the 300
cubic
is to a r
mond.
Just l
there a
who w
lots o
for Beanie Babies and Matchbox cars, there are those who will buy
pickled SLR 722 edition cars for top money. The SLR 722 edition was
Mercedes’ attempt at making the SLR look cool and outrageous by cut-
ting the roof off. I had a friend from the U.K. who did this to Morris
Marinas, and everyone noticed him, too — but only for driving a car
without a roof or windscreen of any sort.
Classic Mercedes are better investments
The real-world market for an SLR coupe lies in the $200k–$300k
range with a few outliers. These cars were almost never driven when
new, and most of them have about 10,000 miles.
They sold for about $500k new, which means they have lost around
50% of their value since, but it is really too soon to tell. If you happen
to like the SLR and want to own one, make sure you own the follow-
ing collectible Mercedes-Benz
00SL (if
, a solid
, some-
g like a
d a modern
o use as a
R should
s a depre-
d not as
f you’re
chanical
t is in the
off
off
to
r selling
s kind of
uld love
they can
h a Mercedes
ng-term
on in its
ies once the various modules fail and its CAN wiring begins to
biodegrade.
While some very enthusiastic electrical engineering student may
come up with repairs for various circuit-board failures, once the wir-
ing dies off, you have a yard ornament. And even now, finding a dealer
tech at any Mercedes service facility that can repair this car, diagnose
its electronic trouble codes and get to the root of its issues will be a
challenge.
If you want an example, consider the SLR’s electronic spoiler that
elevates at about 75 mph. This is a great example of technology that al-
most no one will be able to service in 10 years when it starts acting up.
Not a race car or the Uhlenhaut coupe
When Mercedes starts building different limited editions of a limited
production car, it shows how
despera
it. In t
adverti
ment sa
meant t
the foo
Uhlenh
I’m ass
reader w
Merced
Herr U
you don
The s
most li
the 300
an allo
NSL ca
McLare
the 300
cubic
is to a r
mond.
Just l
there a
who w
lots o
for Beanie Babies and Matchbox cars, there are those who will buy
pickled SLR 722 edition cars for top money. The SLR 722 edition was
Mercedes’ attempt at making the SLR look cool and outrageous by cut-
ting the roof off. I had a friend from the U.K. who did this to Morris
Marinas, and everyone noticed him, too — but only for driving a car
without a roof or windscreen of any sort.
Classic Mercedes are better investments
The real-world market for an SLR coupe lies in the $200k–$300k
range with a few outliers. These cars were almost never driven when
new, and most of them have about 10,000 miles.
They sold for about $500k new, which means they have lost around
50% of their value since, but it is really too soon to tell. If you happen
to like the SLR and want to own one, make sure you own the follow-
ing collectible Mercedes-Benz
00SL (if
, a solid
, some-
g like a
d a modern
o use as a
R should
s a depre-
d not as
f you’re
chanical
t is in the
off
to
r selling
s kind of
uld love
they can
h a Mercedes
ng-term
on in its
ductory
ductory
ption
y of
gia.)
February 2016
75
edicts that lowered performance.
Our subject car is part of the second generation of the body style,
built from 1968 to 1972. During that generation, the 442 became its
own model line from 1968 to 1971, with a specific VIN number assigned
to the 442. The 1972 model was originally designated to be a body
changeover year, with the new “Colonnade” body in play, but a pesky
strike at GM put that off until the 1973 model.
With that brief 442 primer behind us, let’s take a specific look at our
1972 subject car.
The 442 was once again a styling and handling package in 1972.
The VIN number did not tell you if the car was actually born as a 442
(although a U or a V in the fifth digit of the VIN number would denote
the 455, but that was not specific to the 442 — only the X code denoted
the W-30 455, which was only available in a 442 package). Starting
with a 350 V8 Cutlass, you could order the W-29 442 package starting
at $29. For that, buyers would get some badges and stripes, an upgraded
suspension and faux hood louvers, and a different grille. There
were plenty of other options as well, which could quickly take the base
MSRP up to a hefty grand total.
From an Oldsmobile 442 hierarchy standpoint, our subject car falls
one notch short of the top dog in the category, which is the W-30 model.
Those cars were usually ordered by well-heeled gentlemen who wanted
the performance of an all-out muscle car, in a more stylish touring
package. The W-30 option consisted of a massive 455-ci L77 engine
that produced 300 ponies when put to the test. The main selling feature,
however, was 410 foot-pounds of torque that could easily shred a pair
of Goodyears in short order. There where plenty of other options and
models also available, such as the Hurst/Olds, that allowed buyers to
create and build just about any configuration Cutlass they desired.
Unique options
Our subject car was ordered with a set of very unique, documented,
and now sought-after options. While the original buyer of this car
didn’t order the top-level W-30 455, he did come close with the optional
V-code, 270-horse, 455 Rocket engine. Other notable options
included factory air, 8-track player, Sports console, the W-25 ram-air
hood, anti-spin differential, rear exhaust cutouts, and a host of other
luxury items. In essence, the original owner of this car knew what he
was doing and ordered a “near-W-30” example with all the creature
comforts of a luxury coupe. And that didn’t come cheap, with the total
tally coming to a heady $7,442.88 in 1972 — all backed up via a copy of
the original window sticker.
A top-notch restoration
The highly regarded Thornton Brothers, of Telford, PA, restored our
subject car. They specialize in GM A-body cars and have a well-known
following for doing some of the best restorations in the business. I’ve
personally discussed a few cars with them — and crawled all over some
of their restorations. Their work is impeccable and extraordinarily correct,
and their finished cars command a premium when sold at auction.
Our subject 442 was reported to be in near-perfect condition. The
body panels, paintwork, engine bay, chassis and interior were all in
pristine condition — and worthy of any show field. The color combination
is also very desirable and easily adds 10% to the overall valuation.
While the documentation is somewhat light, we do find copies of the
original window sticker and broadcast sheet, which confirm the current
build and configuration of the presentation.
Sought after and relatively rare
Production figures show 928 total Cutlass Supreme 442 convertibles
built, with an additional 113 W-30 cars constructed in 1972. The special
Hurst/Olds convertibles also add another 130 cars to the fold. Out of
the 928 Cutlass Supreme 442 convertibles built, how many remain is
anyone’s guess. However, peeling another layer off that onion would
reveal far fewer cars with these options — and even fewer at this level
of restoration. The reality is that this restoration was done for accolades
— and certainly not to obtain a profit.
Very few 1972 442 convertibles are currently for sale. The cars have
a tendency to stay put in their owners’ garages. When one does come
up for sale, the values can range from $25,000 for a rather ordinary #3
driver to $75,000 for an exceptional example. The buyers of these cars
also have a tendency to stay loyal to 442s. These cars are often sold
from one Oldsmobile collector to another.
The SCM Pocket Price Guide pegs the 1972 convertible models at
$18,000 to $26,000, which sounds like it needs to be updated, given the
current market.
Naturally, it boils down to supply and demand for any car to com-
mand a premium. There weren’t a bunch of 1972 Oldsmobile 442 convertibles
built and even fewer have survived. To complicate this, there
are plenty of clones and replicas out there that were never (1972) 442s
to begin with, so be careful and do your homework if you plan to purchase
one. Options and colors can — and do — make a huge difference
as well, so a well-appointed example will command a higher price.
Our subject car was highly restored. The cost of that restoration
was reported to have exceeded the $77,500 selling price. There was
no mention of the car being a numbers-matching example, but most
of the auction houses would rather not suggest that, as cars are or
aren’t matching numbers because of the widely varying definitions of
the term.
The 411 on the 442
Given the slim offerings in the current market, the color combina-
tion, partial documentation and restoration costs, the buyer of this
Oldsmobile did well — but so did the seller.
Had this car been offered in the public market via a private party sale
(not an auction), I believe that the seller would have been hard pressed
to fetch this sort of number for a 1972 442 convertible. Prospects would
have researched the asking price and, frankly, thought the seller was
crazy.
That said, an auction was likely the best option for the seller since
buyers could see the quality of the car and realize the enormous investment
put into it — which resulted in a great outcome for the seller. By
the books, Lot 175 was well sold, but when you continue to peel more
layers of that automotive onion, both parties should be pleased. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of Auctions America.)
February 2016
77
Page 76
Race Car Profile
1956 Fiat-Bartoletti Tipo 306 Race Car
Transporter
This living racing relic hauled Maserati, Scarab and Shelby Cobra team cars
— and has McQueen provenance
by Paul Hardiman
Details
Year produced: 1956
Number produced: One
Distributor cap: N/A
Tune-up cost: N/A
Club: None — unless you count the
Historic Grand Prix Cars Association
SCM Investment Grade: B
Comps
Chassis number: 3062001625
T
his is the Maserati factory team’s transporter of its
World Championship-winning Fangio 250F season
of 1957 — and which would also have taken
Fangio’s Piccolo 250F (Chassis 2533) to the last
race of his glittering career at Reims in 1958.
It was subsequently acquired by Lance Reventlow
for his Team America Scarab assault upon the European
Grand Prix series in 1960–61.
The transporter’s next American owners then made
the most massive impact of the post-war period upon
the European road-racing establishment — as Carroll
Shelby’s Cobra operation used this team transporter
during its Ferrari-toppling FIA Grand Touring Car
World Championship-winning assault of 1964–65.
This transporter’s motor racing pedigree at worldlevel
was then perpetuated as the
class International
leading British Ford GT program team of Alan Mann
Racing, based in Byfleet, England, hauled its cars
and associated men and materiel around the World
Championship battle zones of Europe.
In 1969–70, it was acquired by Steve McQueen’s
Solar Productions team to feature prominently (under
ever-changing team liveries) in the ultimate motor race
enthusiast cult movie: “Le Mans.”
The vehicle — unrestored and in severely dilapidated
(although, as it subsequently proved, still
runnable)
condition — later became the neglected victim of a
complex family situation which saw it effectively abandoned
in the open, though fortunately in near-perfectly
dry desert-air preservation conditions at Mesa, AZ, for
many years.
Eventually, Cobra and Scarab owner Don Orosco
became curious about the fate of the once-famous
old transporter. Orosco recalls how: “I asked Carroll
78
Shelby what had happened to it and he just laughed and
said, ‘Everybody and his brother has tried to get that
sumbitch, and they’ve all got absolutely nowhere. Don’t
waste your time tryin’.’”
To the intensely competitive Mr. Orosco, that was
like a red rag to a bull, and eventually he was shown the
truck, in an otherwise empty U-Haul used-equipment
disposal yard, its doors hanging open.
But the engine was runnable, and the old, long-stored
engine oil itself looked as fresh as if it had just been
added.
Orosco’s pessimistic estimate of just how extensive
— and expensive — restoration would be was well wide
of the mark. The process proved infinitely more costly
and demanding, with extensive new framing and body
paneling needed.
It was finished just in time for the 2008 Monterey
Historics, and with Orosco’s two Scarab single-seaters
and sports-racing car all loaded on board, this Italianborn
American motor racing icon was then driven into
Laguna Seca’s Monterey Historics paddock to a tumultuous
reception from the throng of patriotic enthusiasts.
SCM Analysis This truck, Lot 333, sold for
$1,012,824, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at Bonhams’ Goodwood Revival sale on September
12, 2015.
As the catalog had it, it is “absolutely dripping with
1950s/60s motor racing history,” which once included
taking 11 crew and friends to the opera — which sparked
a dispute over how many parking spaces it was liable for.
This was just the coolest thing on wheels at Goodwood,
and it will remain so until someone discovers or replicates
the long-lost Pegaso “Codfish” vans built from
Sports Car Market
1960 Commer TS3 “Ecurie Ecosse”
Lot 11, s/n T99A2181
Condition 3+
Sold at $2,730,391
Bonhams, London, U.K., 12/1/13
SCM# 231857
1956 Fiat Tipo 306/2 or 642/RN2 (this
truck)
Lot 234, s/n 3062001625
Condition 2+
Sold at $990,000
RM Auctions, Monterey, CA, 8/18/12
SCM# 209659
1959 Fiat Tipo 682/RN2 Bartoletti
Lot 51, s/n 682RN2001461
Condition 2+
Sold at $990,000
Gooding & Co., Pebble Beach, CA, 8/20/11
SCM# 183088
Simon Clay, courtesy of Bonhams
Page 77
1952, at least one of which was used to carry race cars.
You have to remember that back in the day, a dedicated race trans-
porter was a rare thing. Race teams might use trucks, or at most, converted
buses with doors cut into the back.
Lesser individuals used horse trailers or even massive old Rolls-Royce
shooting brakes and hearses, suitably modified for towing.
A long, historic run
The Ecurie Ecosse transporter of 1959 was one of the first custom-de-
signed and -built carriers (see SCM March 2014, “Collecting Thoughts,”
p. 30). Even before that, Ferrari pioneered the use of converted Fiat bus
chassis to haul three cars, and so did Maserati, which commissioned our
subject truck in 1956.
Where they led, others followed, and various Lotus and Mercedes
transporters have come out of the woodwork, been restored and pressed
into service. Mercedes has even made a replica of its 1954 300S-based
Renntransporter, which could carry a single 300SLR at high speed if a
replacement was needed urgently at a racetrack.
After Maserati had finished with it, it certainly did the rounds:
Reventlow Automobiles Scarab Works team, Shelby American Cobra
Works team, Alan Mann Racing, John Woolfe Racing, David Piper
Racing, filming “Le Mans,” and the JCB Historic racing team.
Following its massive restoration, it only had 103 miles on the clock,
indicating that it had been little used (or the speedo cable was bust) —
unlike the Ecurie Ecosse Commer which used to get driven everywhere,
usually in the hands of exuberant racer Barrie “Whizzo” Williams, before
owner Dick Skipworth sold it in 2013 for a massive $2.7m.
The buyer then also snapped up two of Dick’s team cars, a C-type and
a D-type, thereby acquiring a ready-made (and self-contained) collection
of the highest pedigree, but that was not the case here, as the Scarab
racers this Fiat transporter used to carry, two single-seaters and a copy
of the sports racer, were dispersed elsewhere at the same sale.
In fantastic shape
Helping confirm little use, even the floorboards were clean on the
underside, and there was no wear to seats or interior. The driver gets
a neat little vinyl-trimmed bucket seat, while his two oppos luxuriate
alongside on soft velour.
There was one amusing and non-original touch in the interior. During
the restoration process, Orosco found on eBay a bed cover and curtains
fashioned from fabric featuring three Scarab Grand Prix cars, red,
yellow and blue, among other period Formula One models, and he discovered
that they had been bought in period from a Woolworth’s store.
Scarab founder Lance Reventlow’s mother, Barbara Hutton, had been
primary heiress to the Woolworth fortune — and it seems that she had
had the design woven into bedspreads for car-mad kids. Orosco bought
the fabric for $100 as linings for the cab curtains.
The Leyland diesel engine was a later addition, probably dating back
to the Bamford (JCB) days, and it was in good condition, so it was left.
The original, smaller Fiat diesel was a bit, er, breathless (rather like the
weird Tilling-Stevens supercharged two-stroke opposed-piston, 3-cylinder
flat six in the Ecurie Ecosse Commer), allowing only 55 mph and
apparently with the replacement unit fitted it would “cruise at 65 all day
and it didn’t notice hills.”
The turbo diesel six, a lay-flat design like the original Fiat 203 and
probably an 11.1-liter Leyland 0.680 from a Tiger or Leopard bus, drives
through a 5-speed semi-automatic, another carry-over from the bus world.
Now, there was little confusion in the catalog, which described it as
a 642 and, following the catalog, that’s what we called it last month.
But a 642 looks more like a truck. In 2012 RM called it a 306, which is
a bus, and this has the same front end. Bonhams didn’t quote a chassis
number. When it was cataloged in 2012 it started 3062… but the 306/2
series didn’t appear until 1960.
As used by Maserati and Reventlow it was a four-wheeler, but by the
time it’s pictured carrying Daytona Cobras in 1964, it’s fitted, presumably
at the behest of Shelby, or possibly for Camoradi, with a tag axle (an
extra, undriven axle behind the drive wheels), for extra load capacity,
which might be why the original motor struggled a bit.
Orosco said in 2009 (speaking to Automobile, with the odo pictured on
43 miles) that he “had $600,000 in it.”
A big toy for a big boy
This time it was bought for just a tad more by a well-known English
restorer and dealer who runs Jaguar Heritage’s racing activities, and
the first thing he did was reapply the Cobra livery before displaying it
at October’s Classic & Sports Car show at Alexandra Palace in North
London, where it was carrying a couple of race Cobras.
This reflects the carrier’s most glamorous and successful period, and
because the owner bought it for his private collection, he can do what
he likes.
As he told me, “It caused a stir at the Ally Pally. I had a Dinky toy of
the truck when I was a boy — I now have the big Dinky.”
The Cobra period makes sense, as to revert to true Scarab-era configuration
you’d have to lose that third axle.
Back to hauling race cars
Remaining in the EU meant it was subject to a further 5% import tax
and, while the money looks like a lot, it’s in line with the 642 Ferrari
transporter sold at Monterey in 2011 for $990,000. The sale price is far
lower than the $2.7m paid for the Ecurie Ecosse transporter two years
ago.
And while the new owner isn’t exactly hurting for money, realizing a
boyhood dream in full size is priceless. He’s one of the few people to have
somewhere to store it — and he enjoys access to enough suitable cars
with which to accessorize it. So no doubt we’ll be seeing it out at race
historic meetings.
Now, taking it to the Mille Miglia would really be something; if you
think about the reception it got at Laguna Seca, just imagine what it’ll be
like back home in Italy in the middle of the world’s most car-mad nation’s
most frenetic historic motoring week. Well bought. ♦
(Introductory text abridged from Bonhams’ exhaustive catalog
entry.)
February 2016
79
Page 78
Next Gen Profile
1996 Subaru Impreza WRC97 Rally Car
This is not only a historically significant rally car, but also the most significant
Subaru to sell at auction
by Chad Tyson
Details
Years produced: 1996
Number produced: 30 (estimated)
Original list price: N/A
Current SCM Valuation: $180,000–
$240,000
Chassis # location: On bulkhead in
engine compartment
Engine # location: On block above starter
Alternatives: 1996 Ford Escort WRC, 1996
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IV, 1996 Toyota
Corolla WRC
SCM Investment Grade: C
Comps
1993 Toyota Celica ST185 Group A
Lot 376, s/n: JT164STJ500014894
Condition: 3
Sold at $137,997
Bonhams, Chichester, U.K., 6/27/2014
SCM# 250546
Chassis number: PR0WRC97001
I
80
nitially road registered as P555 WRC but better
known by its long-term moniker P18 WRC, this car
had been given a superficial cosmetic refurbishment
prior to entering the current ownership. Drawn to
“first editions,” the vendor not only had Prodrive validate
chassis 001 but also commissioned them to restore
it to “original” condition (becoming the Banbury outfit’s
first heritage customer in the process). The car was
renovated using only original SRT parts, many of which
would be even more difficult to source today.
Overseen by Prodrive sales manager Steve Smith
and documented in an accompanying hardback book,
the resultant rejuvenation remains highly impressive
and a real credit to David Richards and his team.
Acid dipping revealed that Chassis 001 had endured a
busy rally life but amazingly still retained its original
Prodrive bodyshell, which was painstakingly repaired
by the same team who had fabricated it in 1996.
A suitable handover ceremony marked the project’s
completion on December, 18, 2009. The inscription
in chassis 001’s restoration book from that day simply
reads: “Best wishes and congratulations on acquiring a
very special car — David.”
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 112, sold for £155,000
($238,413), including buyer’s pre-
mium, at H&H’s Imperial War Museum sale in Duxford,
U.K., on October 14, 2015.
FIA introduced World Rally Car regulations for the
1997 World Rally Championship season, superseding
Group A rules. The change gave competing teams more
flexibility, with a spirit not unlike that of the heyday
of Group B rallying. The new rules stipulated that the
cars may be derived from a family of cars and the base
engine needed to be put in 2,500 road cars per year.
The goal was to attract new manufacturers to the sport
by removing some of the larger and more cumbersome
homologation requirements.
From Prodrive and back again
Prodrive, in the midst of their highly successful rela-
tionship with Subaru as the Subaru World Rally Team,
leapt at the chance to dive into the new 2-door Impreza
Sports Car Market
1985 Ford RS200
Lot 631, s/n: SFACXXBJ2CGL00114
Condition: 2+
Sold at $169,997
Silverstone, Birmingham, U.K.,
11/16/2013
SCM# 231925
2003 Subaru Impreza WRX Group N
Lot 337, s/n: GDB017026
Condition: 2
Not sold at $57,420
Bonhams, London, U.K., 2/25/2006
SCM# 41132
Courtesy of H&H
Page 79
after winning the manufacturer’s championship two years in a row with
their Group A Impreza. Peter Stevens, designer of the McLaren F1,
was tasked with reworking the new Impreza to Prodrive’s managing
director David Richards’ vision. A season of testing and tweaking on
this car followed.
At the car’s press launch in late 1996, Richards waxed poetic upon
Prodrive’s changes: “These cars, sure they’ve got the roots in production
cars, but we’ve got the lovely, exciting colors, the excitement of the
wings, the performance. Everything about them is extending the sport
to a new dimension.”
Prodrive won its third-straight WRC manufacturer’s title with our
subject car and its WRC97 siblings, besting Ford by 23 points. Colin
McRae finished second that year in the driver’s championship — losing
out to Tommi Mäkinen by only one point — despite a four-race retirement
streak midseason.
Prodrive sold the car to Procar of Spain after the successful 1997
season. The rally-tracking website eWRC-results.com shows P18 WRC
raced 80 rallies from 1998 to 2007, with 17 retirements. Notable drivers
from this privateer life include Valentino Rossi, Grégoire de Mevius
and Jean-Pierre Richelmi.
Prodrive’s contract with Subaru ended as Subaru pulled out of the
World Rally Championship altogether after 2008. This car, however, gave
their team a fitting and positive closure to the company’s Subaru chapter.
There was no chance this car would sell at
this price without
Prodrive. Their restoration, as detailed by David Lillywhite of Octane
in their May 2010 issue, included a new engine block and specialty
exhaust manifolds — both of which the shop had tucked away. Many
of the employees were still there from this car’s development in 1996.
Sourcing parts from a couple of other rally shops repaired the damaged
rear section. One of those shops actually had a set of hand-rolled
quarter panels from Prodrive bought years before.
Subaru, meet the market; market, meet Subaru
That the car failed to hit its low estimate of £175,000 ($269,176) isn’t an
automatic qualification for the well-bought designation. P18 WRC is the
highest bid (and selling) Subaru SCM has ever tracked. The next closest
is also a rally car: an ’03 WRX Bonhams didn’t sell in February 2006.
That WRX, with reserve reportedly at $70k, was a Group N car — not
near the level of P18 WRC. The top selling Subaru previously was a ’98
WRX sold by Bonhams and Brooks in July 2001 for $45,402. That’s about
the price for a loaded WRX STi at your Subaru dealer right now.
Rally cars have long been available at auction, with the stars of
Group B and Group 4 selling for exorbitant prices lately. The median
price point for a Lancia Stratos is $496,121, while an Audi Quattro
SWB hovers around $401,500. Subarus haven’t yet resonated with the
market, as just six have ever been bid up over $20k at auction. The
most frequent auction-going Subaru is the 360 microcar, but it doesn’t
have the same “cute” factor — and the subsequent desirability — as an
Isetta. Brat pickups might cause a chuckle or curious eyebrow gestures
from passersby peering at the rear jump seats, but they’ll keep on walking.
No, the first serious-money Subaru really had to be a rally car. It
really had to be this rally car.
This is not only a historically significant rally car, but also the most
significant Subaru to sell at auction.
That an owner even restored a rally car of this vintage is in and of
itself strange. But, as per Lillywhite, he wouldn’t have approached the
car without Prodrive ready to restore it. It’s possible that we’ll see
more manufacturer-restored rally cars hit the market. But there is only
one first Subaru WRC and that’s P18 WRC. The buyer could have spent
double, but it’s still just money compared to what this car means to
rallying. Let’s include introducing the high-end collector car market to
Subaru to this car’s long list of achievements. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of H&H.)
February 2016
81
Page 82
Market Reports Overview
Autumn Auction Action
A Ferrari 250 GT SWB brings $11.4m, and a kitted-out 1947 Chrysler brings $149k
Top 10 Sales
This Issue
(Land Auctions Only)
1. 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB coupe,
$11,370,005—H&H, U.K., p. 106
2. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 coupe,
$3,324,865—H&H, U.K., p. 106
3. 1930 Duesenberg Model
J disappearing-top roadster,
$2,664,534—Bonhams, DNK,
p. 94
4. 1914 Mercedes 28/95 phaeton,
$1,401,029—Bonhams, DNK,
p. 92
5. 1968 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage
Volante convertible, $1,370,363—
Silverstone, U.K., p. 124
6. 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500K
replica special roadster,
$1,134,576—Bonhams, DNK,
p. 92
7. 1914 Rolls-Royce 40/50 hp
Silver Ghost skiff, $1,117,385—
Bonhams, DNK, p. 88
8. 1937 Maybach SW-38 special
roadster, $1,117,385—Bonhams,
DNK, p. 92
9. 1927 Bentley 6½ Litre bobtail,
$1,074,409—Bonhams, DNK,
p. 88
10. 1929 Bentley 4½ Litre sedan,
$1,059,595—Bonhams, U.K., p. 134
Best Buys
1946 Lancia Aprilia prototype
convertible, $396,000—Dragone,
CT, p. 150
84
A long list of period options — 1947 Chrysler Windsor Town & Country sedan, sold at $148,500
By Tony Piff
A
1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB sold for $11.4m at
H&H Duxford in mid-October and was the
most expensive car in this issue. The SWB
accounted for more than half of the $21.4m
auction total at H&H, and 94 out of 145 cars went home
to new garages.
In Ebeltoft, Denmark, Bonhams auctioned off 49 cars
from the Frederiksen Collection. Sales totaled $21.1m
overall, and 43 of the cars met reserve. A 1930 Duesenberg
Model J roadster was the top lot at $2.7m.
A 1913 Pierce-Arrow Model 66A tourer took high-sale
honors at RM Sotheby’s Hershey when it sold for $831k.
143 of 149 cars sold, and sales totaled $16m.
At Silverstone’s Salon Privé sale, 35 out of 62 cars
changed hands, for a combined $5.4m. A 1968 Aston
Martin DB6 Vantage Volante led the high-sellers at $1.4m.
Bonhams sold 98 out of 116 cars in Beaulieu, U.K.,
including a 1929 Bentley 4½ Litre sedan at $1.1m. Overall
sales came to $5.4m.
A 1947 Lancia Aprilia prototype was the top lot at
Dragone’s Westport auction, selling for $396k. Sales totaled
$2.8m, and 29 out of 57 cars hammered sold.
Tony’s Market Moment: A wood-sided 1947 Chrysler
Town & Country sedan at RM Sotheby’s Hershey bristled
with period accessories: It had dual mirrors, dual spot
lamps, fog lamps, roof rack, sun visor, reverse light, exhaust
extension and a Jiffy Jet windshield washer. Engine
bay photos showed three glass reservoirs fixed to the top
of the battery — “an extremely rare MoPar automatic
Sales Totals of Auctions in This Issue
Bonhams
September 5, 2015
Silverstone
September 14, 2015
Bonhams
September 26, 2015
Ebeltoft, DNK
October 8–9, 2015
H&H
October 14, 2015
Dragone
October 17, 2015
Duxford, U.K.
Westport, CT
$0
$2.8m
$10m
SCM 1–6 Scale Condition Rating:
1: National concours standard/perfect
2: Very good, club concours, some small flaws
3: Average daily driver in decent condition
4: Still a driver but with some apparent flaws
5: A nasty beast that runs but has many problems
6: Good only for parts
battery filler,” read the catalog. The perfectly restored car
boasted a long list of important show wins, including a
2015 Best in Class at Amelia Island, and it sold at Hershey
for a best-in-class $149k.
A ’47 Chrysler sedan with an inline six is not a car
you’d drive today for thrills or for catching crumpets.
With its wood trim and numerous non-performance addons,
this car is more like a very drivable piece of antique
furniture. I think the best part about taking it on a CCCA
CARavan might be pulling up to the lunchtime drive-in
and watching the crowd gather in close to take in all the
special details. ♦
$20m
$30m
RM Sotheby’s
Hershey, PA
Oxfordshire, U.K.
Beaulieu, U.K.
$5.4m
$7.6m
$21.1m
$16m
$21.4m
1925 Ahrens-Fox NS4 fire engine,
$182,220—Bonhams, DNK, p. 94
1923 Mercer Series 6 sporting,
$82,500—RM Sotheby’s, PA,
p. 118
1903 Pierce 1-cyl Stanhope,
$57,750—RM Sotheby’s, PA, p. 114
1938 LaSalle Series 50 convertible,
$49,500—Dragone, CT, p. 156
Sports Car Market
Page 84
Bonhams Ebeltoft, DNK
Bonhams — The Frederiksen Auction
All 60 cars in the collection were on the button, and Mr. Frederiksen looked
after them all himself, with the help of only one mechanic
Company
Bonhams
Date
September 26, 2015
Location
Ebeltoft, Denmark
Auctioneer
Malcolm Barber
Automotive lots sold/offered
43/49
Sales rate
88%
Sales total
$21,112,164
High sale
1930 Duesenberg Model J
roadster, sold at $2,664,534
Buyer’s premium
Second in class and the Beaulieu Cup winner at Pebble Beach in 2008 — 1939 Lagonda LG6 Rapide drophead coupe, sold at $816,551
15%, included in sold prices
($1 = DKK 6.69)
Report and photos by Paul Hardiman
Market opinions in italics
I
t was a bit like something out of a Bond film.
When I mentioned to Henrik Frederiksen
that I was staying in the nice hotel just down
the lane, he responded with an enthusiastic,
Ebeltoft, DNK
“Ah, yes. I own the hotel.” Regarding my pleasant
morning walk on the rugged coastline across
the road, he said, “It’s my beach.” And when I
commented on the beautiful woodland setting, he
said, “I own the forest.”
He wasn’t bragging; just matters of fact. Frederiksen
is a very nice man and a proper hands-on enthusiast,
and he is big in these here parts. His wealth allowed the
build-up of a splendid and focused collection of early
coachbuilt motor cars.
e sad thing is that most of these cars were acquired with his wife, who
recently died. And so the decision was made to let them go, barring
a few favorites such as a real DS Décap, a Mk VI-based Bentley
Blue Train replica and a ’53 Caddy convertible.
Frederiksen’s Lyngsbaekgaard estate, on a peninsula only 15
minutes from the tiny Aarhus Airport, was a fantastic setting. The
site includes Denmark’s oldest thatched building — the location of
the sale, formerly cattle sheds before it warehoused Frederiksen’s
cars. When the collection overflowed that, new barns had to be built,
and most recently the last cattle shed (see Lot 35) was converted for yet more storage.
“Until two years ago there were 250 cows in here,” Frederiksen told me. That building
housed the European element of the collection. The “American shed” was up the
path a little way behind the mansion. Impressively, all 60 cars in the collection were
on the button, with only a handful in less-than-immaculate restored condition, and
Mr. Frederiksen looked after them all himself, with the help of only one mechanic.
That included the ultimate big boy’s toy, the massive Ahrens-Fox pumper in fully
functional order, which sold for $182k.
The top seller was, as expected, the disappearing-top Duesenberg at $2.7m, with
the splendidly original 1914 Mercedes phaeton second at $1.4m. Quite a few of the
other cars were rebodies, including the massive and magnificent Maybach Zeppelin
cabrio right at the end of the sale that failed to sell.
Ebeltoft isn’t quite the end of the world, but it’s not the sort of place you’d stumble
across accidentally. There were no casual onlookers here; everyone had come for a
purpose, and therefore bidding was strong, with most lots selling.
However, since the market appears to have taken a breather even since the catalog
1930 Duesenberg Model J disappearing-top roadster, sold at $2,664,534
86
was in compilation, quite a few lots sold a little under estimate. That doesn’t make this
a disappointing sale. Far from it; Mr. Frederiksen was delighted with the outcome —
and, I suspect, secretly pleased to have unexpectedly retained a couple of his cars. ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 86
Bonhams Ebeltoft, DNK
ENGLISH
#25-1910 ROLLS-ROYCE 40/50HP Sil-
ver Ghost replica balloon car. S/N 1513.
Purple/beige leather. RHD. Odo: 7,767 miles.
Originally a Barker Landaulette, rebodied in the
style of the lost C.S. Rolls balloon car with flat
platform on rear and flexible leather rear fenders.
Excellent order all round, with shiny paint
and acres of eye-popping brass and a nice, justsettled-in
appearance. Aluminum dash polished
#9-1913 ROLLS-ROYCE 40/50HP Sil-
ver Ghost tourer. S/N 2517. Maroon & black/
buff cloth/brown leather. RHD. Odo: 500
miles. Very silver and nickelly, including
lights, radiator, klaxon, windscreen frame and
wheels. Good older paint with some light
cracking around fender bolts. Front leather
just taking on a bit of life. Nice instruments
Cosmetically refreshed a few years back, timber
in good nick apart from one large repaired
crack in scuttle, couple of small dings in right
headlight. Seat edge a bit worn, but rest of
leather okay. Elliott Brothers speedo. Cond:
like a mirror and well stocked, including Elliott
speedo. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $644,645. On the
money for a Ghost without its original body.
The fact that it was a weird one didn’t seem to
affect it, but then it was a truly magnificent
thing with appealing presence, straight out of
“Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines.”
Last sold for $484k at RM Monterey
2011 (SCM# 185568).
#44-1912 ROLLS-ROYCE 40/50HP Sil-
ver Ghost cabriolet. S/N 2145. Eng. # 47D.
Green/black leather & mushroom velour.
RHD. Odo: 9,785 miles. Originally a Barker
cabriolet, rebodied in the syle of Barker with
some original parts. Incredibly straight and
shiny. Perfect CAV headlights, lovely cutglass
carriage lamps. Engine buffed up better
then new. Smiths speedo. Also known as Edwina,
per name plaque on scuttle, as appears
including Elliott speedo. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT
$584,479. Originally the property of the Maharaja
of Patiala, discovered by Charles Howard
in India in 1970, then with Richard
Solove. Last sold for $496k by RM in October
2011 (SCM# 191256) after being offered but
not sold by Gooding & Co. at Pebble Beach
two months prior (SCM# 184691). On the
money here.
#33-1913 SUNBEAM 25/30HP Torpedo.
S/N 5320. Green/beige canvas/brown leather.
RHD. Odo: 3,157 miles. Large and imposing
tourer. Older restoration, has been a lighter
color with a dark top. Buttoned leather shows
a wonderful patina, with one small rip, and
there’s a lovely set of dials plus an Auster rear
screen. Like all the Frederiksen Collection
cars, brass glows yellow like gold, though
3+. SOLD AT $1,117,385. Ex-Robert Barrymore.
Two entries for 2009: October 29 sold
for $783,241 with RM in London (SCM#
152497), having not sold at $725,000 at RM
Phoenix in January (SCM# 119299). I wrote
then, “Did just enough this time to change
hands. A mid-estimate valuation, and the right
price for one of the sportiest Ghosts.” I’d say
that still holds true, even if it ended up near
the bottom of the estimate range.
#8-1927 BENTLEY 6½ LITRE bobtail.
S/N WK2658. Eng. # WK2653.
Black/red leather. RHD. Odo: 43,219
miles. Rare short-chassis car, originally with a
minimal aluminum body, then a 4-seater
coupe, finally with this body, inspired by the
Forrest Lycett 8 Litre bobtail, made in Australia
by 1950. Aluminum is still straight, good
nickel and chrome, engine-turned dash. Front
TOP 10
No. 9
to be the convention with Ghosts. Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $713,408. In Australia almost all
its life. Offered but not sold at Bonhams’ Festival
of Speed sale in June of 2014, then wearing
Australian plates, so it seems likely a deal
was done post-sale (SCM# 250542). This time
it sold where expected, and compares well
with the Ghost balloon car replica (Lot 25).
Also, look how much cheaper this near-immaculate
piece of magnificence is compared
with the more used skiff-bodied car, Lot 20.
88
there are a couple of blemishes in the radiator
shell; left headlight (CAV, but Sunbeambranded)
is slightly dinged. Now with alternator,
electric fuel pump and hydraulic brakes,
though still rear only. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT
$180,501. First supplied to Scotland and later
in the Sword Collection, sold at the dispersal
auction in 1962. No history since, but restoration
is older. A fair price for a very usable
Edwardian Era tourer.
#20-1914 ROLLS-ROYCE 40/50HP
Silver Ghost skiff. S/N 54PB. Green
& wood/green leather. RHD. Odo:
3,700 miles. Rebodied no later than 1923.
TOP 10
No. 7
seats nicely patinated; rear hardly used. Righthand
throttle. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $1,074,409.
Originally supplied to Australia, in the U.S. by
1971. Sold well over the estimate, but this is a
car with history in its own right, and retaining
many of its original major components. Sold
for much the same as the very original 4½
Litre saloon at Bonhams Beaulieu (SCM#
267258).
#27-1933 ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM
II Continental Owen Sedanca coupe. S/N
64PY. Eng. # PW15. Blue/black vinyl/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 20,519 miles. Perfect paint
and chrome, straight panels, lightly used
leather. Perfect black vinyl top. Extra altimeter
and barometer. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $738,446.
Apparently once raced the Blue Train from Calais
to Antibes, driven by Mrs. Peta Fisher. Has
Sports Car Market
Page 88
Bonhams Ebeltoft, DNK
seat leather unworn and new carpets. Previously
fire-damaged and rebuilt in early 2002.
Still with original SS engine block. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $498,526. Originally supplied by
Appleyard of Leeds. In the U.S. from 1940,
then Switzerland and then Germany. On the
money for a 3½-liter that’s not quite as original
as it could be.
#31-1939 LAGONDA LG6 Rapide drop-
been in the U.S., and according to the tax disc,
was in the U.K. until 2012, when it went through
the hands of Frank Dale & Stepsons. Just about
scraped up to the required money at a declared
£509,716, but later appeared on Bonhams results
page as simply “sold,” so perhaps the
buyer fell out and a new one was found.
#34-1937 ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM
III drophead coupe. S/N 3BT185. Eng. #
K68R. Blue/gray leather. RHD. Odo: 1,249
miles. Former Pebble Beach winner. Restored
more than a decade ago but still excellent
paint and chrome. Timber and veneers perfect,
hardly used leather. In the front seat is a cushion
with the image of Hedy Lamarr printed on
it, as there is a link... Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$618,860. It’s the condition that matters here,
helping this V12 Phantom to a strong mid-
head coupe. S/N 12372. Blue/red leather.
RHD. 1940 New York Auto Show car with
factory Frank Feeley-designed body. Acquired
by Skip Barber in 2007 and restored by RM
Auto Restoration, winning second in class and
the Beaulieu Cup at Pebble Beach in 2008.
$120,334. Sold low, way under the $170k–
$225k estimate range, maybe because along
with the other two French cars (both later
Citroëns), it was way out of kilter with the rest
of the collection. Well bought, therefore.
#18-1930 HISPANO-SUIZA H6C cabrio-
Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $816,551. Last sold for
$545k with RM in Monterey 2011, well under
the $650k–$900k estimate (SCM# 183146).
This time it’s redeemed itself. Being the
swoopiest British coachbuilt with the best Feeley-designed
body for the model in a sea of
angular American iron is probably what
helped it to almost $200k over the high estimate.
#24-1973 ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM
VI convertible. S/N PRX4705. Green/white
leather. Odo: 39,473 km. One of two bodied
by Frua; the other is a four-door. From a distance
you think this is a fancy-bodied Corniche...
but it’s huge, another dimension
completely. SM taillights, with a few small
estimate price, but the history is fascinating:
Originally delivered to Fritz Mandl, an Austrian
arms maker and munitions supplier to
Axis powers, once married to aspiring young
actress Hedwig Kiesler. After she escaped the
marriage and fled to Hollywood (later becoming
famous under the stage name Hedy Lamarr),
and before he was discovered to be a
Jew, Mandl shipped the car to South America
before it could be confiscated.
#7-1938 JAGUAR SS 100 3½-liter road-
ster. S/N 390083. Silver/green leather. RHD.
Odo: 26,451 km. Good plating and nice paint,
ripples above the left one, two small stone
chips and one small ding over left headlight.
Lightly creased leather and all timber is good.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $550,097. Made for consul
Simon van Kempen of Switzerland and
Monaco, who kept it until 1997. Sold well over
estimate, but find another...
FRENCH
#29-1909 RENAULT V1 20/30 Cape Top
Victoria. S/N 14985. Dark blue/maroon
leather. RHD. Restored. Leather hardly used.
Lovely brass and lots of it: big Bleriot headlamps,
Besnard scuttle lamps. Massive handcranked
Bleriot klaxon. Cond: 2. SOLD AT
90
Sports Car Market
Now with power steering. Cond: 2. SOLD AT
$446,954. Originally supplied to Paris but
must have arrived in the U.S. soon after. Was
also in the U.K. at some time. Restored again
about 10 years ago before appearance at Pebble
Beach. Sold mid-estimate and looks like a
slightly better value than the Isotta Fraschini,
Lot 32.
#2-1973 CITROËN SM coupe. S/N
00SD0338. Blue/tan leather. Odo: 36,538
miles. U.S.-spec car, basically all in fair order
but sits oddly: low at the front and distinctly
saggy at the right front corner—and it’s like
that in the catalog pics, too. Otherwise, all
trim and rubber good, one tiny blemish on
stainless back bumper, redone leather and
suede dash top unworn. No rot in the floor
let de ville. S/N 12401. Brown & black/brown
leather. Kellner body modified in period by
Hibbard & Darrin to include a fixed roof and
side windows for the chauffeur. Modified back
to original in late ’40s. Spotlight and periodspec
bumpers added later. Super Deco rear
interior compartment still in excellent order.
Page 90
Bonhams Ebeltoft, DNK
punt. Newish exhaust. Modern a/c compressor
and alternator. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $56,729.
Originally supplied to the U.S. and restored
there. Market-correct price for a driver SM,
but I’m surprised it sold the way it sits, and
for this much money with the U.S. front in Europe.
But it is a 3-liter manual, and the suspension
might be a simple fix.
#1-1974 CITROËN DS23 Pallas sedan.
S/N 01F68592. Eng. # 683012251. Blue/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 54,237 miles. One of the
only slightly ratty cars in the collection, along
with the SM standing next to it, Lot 2. Repainted
around 2000, but it’s bubbly around
the left headlight, plus a few small scratches in
right front fender; rest of paint okay. A few
wrong carbs and probably a replacement engine
(SCM# 17144). Strangely, let go a little
way under the wide estimate band of $1.45m–
$1.9m, as was the theme with many of the lots
here, and other recent auctions, too. My absolute
favorite car of the sale.
#16-1935 MERCEDES-BENZ 500K
replica special roadster. S/N 113688.
Black/brown leather. Odo: 1,161 km.
K roadster re-creation built by Franz Prahl
from 2008 to 2011 on a cabrio chassis. A flawless
job and indistinguishable from the real
TOP 10
No. 6
man limousine, discovered in Hungary by Eberhard
Thiesen and rebodied in Lithuania. As
the catalog put it, “exceptionally unique.” Let
go a bit under the lower estimate, and for a
non-original car, or at worst a bitsa, $1¼ mill
is a big ask.
#3-1937 MERCEDES-BENZ 320N Cab-
corrosion speckles in rear spears. Redone
leather all good, modern stereo with ugly
modern speakers on rear shelf. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $36,100. Mr. Frederiksen only
bought it in the past couple of years. This and
the SM contrasted with the rest of the collection,
so the two moderns were got out of the
way first. Sold under the estimate range but
very fair money for condition.
GERMAN
#28-1914 MERCEDES 28/95 phaeton.
S/N 15979. Eng. # 22781. Brown
& wood/tan canvas. RHD. Fantastically
original old thing. Exact age of wooden
body indeterminate, but probably originally a
boat-tailed skiff design, rescued and preserved
by soaking in linseed oil for three years. Canvas
seat covers protect ancient leather. Unrepeatable
patina to brass radiator shell, great
big Zeiss lights, trunks on the rear straight out
TOP 10
No. 4
dash glows with vitality. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$524,312. Compared to the Maybachs, this is
almost compact. Discovered in Russia by Eberhard
Thiesen in the ’90s and restored in his
shop. Sold over the $410k top estimate, but
having the original body obviously helped
here.
TOP 10
No. 8
of “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Now with electric
start. Cond: 3. SOLD AT $1,401,029. Last
SCM record is in 1993, when Sotheby’s sold it
from the estate of Ben Moser to Richie Clyne
for $160k, with our comment that it had the
92
#23-1937 MAYBACH SW-38 special
roadster. S/N 1834. Black/cream
leather. Odo: 48,100 km. The “small”
Maybach, though that’s a relative term. Well
restored, but another one of the collection with
a replica body, re-created to a period Spohn
design, with fitted luggage in rear compartment.
Motor might not be the original. Cond:
1-. SOLD AT $1,117,385. Originally a Pull-
Sports Car Market
thing. Achingly gorgeous from every angle,
with amazing and perfect mother-of-pearl
dash. Now with electric power steering. Cond:
1-. SOLD AT $1,134,576. Bought by
Frederiksen at the end of 2011. I can’t believe
you could commission a new one for less
money (or stand the three- to four-year wait),
so with that in mind, this looks like a good
deal.
#10-1937 HORCH 853 cabriolet. S/N
853163. Silver & black/black cloth/black
leather. Odo: 2,007 km. Beautiful older restoration
still presents very well with perfect twotone
paint and chrome. Leather only lightly
worn on driver’s side. Amazing veneer-inlaid
hard top. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $541,402. Discovered
in Russia by Eberhard Thiesen about
2000, restored in Lithuania. Sold well over the
$275k–$275k estimate, while most of the lots
here were sold within the band or slightly under.
Suspect this might have been because it
was the first properly “old” car of the sale,
and in a packed sale room, nobody was quite
sure how the mood was going to go.
ITALIAN
#32-1929 ISOTTA FRASCHINI TIPO
8A landaulette. S/N 1390. Blue & black/black
leather/brocade velour. RHD. Odo: 702 miles.
riolet A. S/N 172289. Silver/tan leather. Odo:
1,320 km. Baby 540k built on short N chassis.
Most of body new at restoration. Decent
rechrome with a few tiny marks under the
plating. Tan leather unworn. Nicely dull timber
to dash, original instruments have survived
well. Timber door cappings are so shiny and
seamless they look like molded plastic. With
Page 92
Bonhams Ebeltoft, DNK
Almost perfect, some polish marks under radiator
chrome. Veneers and inlays perfect,
patterned leather in rear unworn, front leather
shows a little use. Painted wires behind Easiclean
discs. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $524,312.
First registered in England and won the
Goodwood Concours in 1957. It sold for
$142k at a 1984 Sotheby’s auction (SCM#
19447). More recently, it no-saled at the Festival
of Speed in July of 2013 (SCM# 233457).
Here it looks like a good value against a
Royce or a Bentley.
AMERICAN
#35-1925 AHRENS-FOX NS4 fire
engine. S/N 1641. Red/black leather.
RHD. Odo: 6,461 miles. A thing of
massively restored (2002–05) magnificence,
beautifully presented, and apparently everything
works. All the bells and whistles—literally.
Hoses, ladders all in good nick, seat
leather only lightly worn. Still runs original
BEST
BUY
magneto! Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $182,220.
Originally in service (for almost four decades)
with the city of Dover, New Hampshire, and
driven around the Lyngsbaekgaard estate on
viewing day. With massive 1,100-gallon-perminute
capacity. This ultimate boy’s toy
looked a snip at less money than a 3 Litre
Bentley.
TOP 10
No. 3
#14-1930 DUESENBERG MODEL J
disappearing-top roadster. S/N 2346.
Black/black leather. Odo: 49,298
miles. ACD Category 1, so it retains all its
major original components and is a multiple
concours winner. Older resto but still shiny,
with lovely hand-applied coachlines. Excellent
chrome; some small marks in rear platform
cepted high bid was a little below the lower
estimate, which usually correlates pretty
closely with the reserve.
#19-1931 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL CL
dual-cowl phaeton. S/N 7803303. Black/
black cloth/red leather. Odo: 76,511 miles.
Looks like one of the more recent restos,
though catalog says it was actually done in the
’80s. Excellent paint and very good chrome;
has a few polish marks under the plating on
the radiator shell. Leather looks unused.
Concours motor, though some paint burnt
chrome. Lightly used and creased leather.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $2,664,534. High-water
mark of the weekend, though in common with
many lots at this and other recent sales, ac-
off the carb top. Instruments, in engine-turned
dash, are perfect. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$423,727. One of the few cars that didn’t want
to run, though it did eventually. Sold quite
some ways under the $520k–$620k estimate
range. I can’t quite fathom why it attracted so
little and why it was let go.
#40-1933 AUBURN 12-165 phaeton. S/N
1094H. Black/blue leather. Odo: 1 miles.
Older resto with a few dust marks in the paint.
Excellent chrome. Almost unused leather. Top
like new. Dual-ratio rear axle. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $249,263. Last sold in August 2010
at RM for $204k, which we felt was a bit
cheap at the time (SCM# 165730). Here it’s
just about holding its own.
#26-1933 STUTZ DV32 roadster. S/N
DV241505. Cream & brown/beige cloth/beige
leather. Odo: 48,838 miles. Said to be one of
two DV32 roadsters made in 1993. Stored
long-term. Restored 1996–97, still with excellent
paint and plating. New-looking leather
and carpets, lovely dulled timber on dash.
Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $567,288. Once owned
by serial Stutz owner (and noted miser and
hoarder) Alexander Kennedy Miller, who was
found after his death to have accumulated
millions, but never paid any taxes. This car
94
Sports Car Market
H&H Auctions Duxford, U.K.
H&H — The Imperial War Museum
The total from the Colton cars was $15.3m, which should be enough to buy
and run three new lifeboats
Company
H&H
Date
October 14, 2015
Location
Oxford, U.K.
Auctioneer
Simon Hope
Automotive lots sold/offered
93/145
Sales rate
64%
Sales total
$21,373,508
High sale
1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB,
sold at $11,370,005
Buyer’s premium
Bequeathed to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution from the estate of the late Richard Colton — 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 coupe,
sold at $3,324,865
12%, minimum $231,
included in sold prices
($1.00 = £0.65)
Report and photos by Paul Hardiman
Market opinions in italics
“A
About three lifeboats” was the consensus.
Late Ferrari enthusiast Richard
Colton had left his cars — including
two precious Ferraris — to the
Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Incredibly,
the U.K.’s lifeboat service is not governmentfunded,
but a charity relying on donations. The
cars were the most valuable items ever bequeathed in
a single legacy to this life-saving volunteer organization,
which costs $620k a day to run. The total from
the Colton cars was $15.3m, which should be enough
to buy and run three new lifeboats.
Colton’s Ferraris weren’t in the concours condition
we have become accustomed to these days, but
they
were charming in their slightly foxed tiredness. The
SWB in particular was decidedly non-symmetrical in
places and all the better for it. It took a cracking price
of over $11m, a record for a steel SWB, making up more
than half of the sales total and representing a personal
record for Simon Hope, who co-founded H&H 22 years
ago. Colton’s 275 GTB/4 was more in line with the
market at $3.3m. His E-type lightweight replica, built
by Bryan Wingfield of DRL Engineering in 1991, sold
for $233k, while his massively upgraded XK 120 with
Getrag 5-speed and rack-and-pinion power steering sold
98
for $172k.
This was a massive sale by H&H standards. The Duxford hangar was full,
Duxford, U.K.
and half the lots were outside, joining the Handley Page Victor tanker that was
displaced for the occasion. A Subaru Impreza used by Colin McRae sold after
the auction and looked like a bargain at $238k, while a shinily restored Land
Rover, this time an 86-inch, made a very strong $61k. Those prices were
broad, as expected, but nobody could have foreseen the incredible $107k
paid for a wreck of a Jaguar XJ12 C. Cosmetically Broadspeed-ised, this
pre-production
1976 V12
coupe
had been the on-screen wheels of
Patrick Macnee, aka John Steed, in the
TV adventure fantasy “The New Avengers.”
Even though the car had suffered badly in its 20
years in the wilderness, it sold for seven times
its estimate.
Another celebrity car, the futuristic and long-
lost Sotheby Special show car based on a 1971
Aston Martin DBS V8, now very shabby and
with its multiple taillights long departed, sold for
$136k. The Aston Martin Works Development
V8 of 1973, in storage since 1987 and with paint
now peeling, tripled its estimate to reach $112k.
This was H&H’s highest-grossing sale to
date, and it will be remembered for the “lifeboat”
Ferraris. Well done, all around. ♦
$25m
$20m
$15m
$10m
$5m
0
Sports Car Market
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
Sales Totals
Page 98
H&H Auctions Duxford, U.K.
ENGLISH
#90-1934 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE saloon.
S/N B54AH. Gray & ivory/red leather. RHD.
Odo: 97,991 miles. Nice example of “The Silent
Sports Car.” Lovely and straight with nice
repaint and coachlines, good plating. Good
door fit, lightly creased leather. Nice timber
and good headlining. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT
modified 120 coupe, however successful the
changes might be. Very well sold.
$66,325. The right money for a decent Derby
Bentley. Elegant and not too flouncey Park
Ward body helps here. It might have got a little
more had it been a 4¼, but it’s really all about
condition—which is inextricably linked to the
seesaw relationship between expenditures behind
it and the bills looming ahead. This was
on a favorable part of the curve, so I’d say
slightly well bought.
#76-1938 TRIUMPH DOLOMITE rep-
lica roadster. S/N 2321581. Green/brown
leather. RHD. Odo: 36,494 miles. Dolomite
Straight 8 was essentially Triumph’s copy of
an Alfa 8C 2300, and this is a copy of that.
Beautifully done, good paint and excellent
plating, leather lightly used. Runs a straightsix
Dolomite engine with extra front exhaust
port to run four outlets into eight downpipes.
Various XK 140 bits, including rack-and-pinion
steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, 5-speed
gearbox, power steering. Couple of small
dings in top of fender. Rear light plinths only
lightly pickled. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $172,273.
From the Colton Collection, so proceeds go
toward buying new lifeboats. Offered at no
reserve and sold for less money than the other
“improved” XK 120 coupe in the sale, Lot 75,
and probably fair at that.
#38-1955 LAND ROVER SERIES I 86-
Must sound very odd. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT
$139,049. Only three Dolomite 8s were built,
and only two exist (creator Donald Healey
destroyed one on the 1935 Monte Carlo
Rally). All the drawings were destroyed, so
there’s not much to go on, making this a commendable
job by Rob Green of Gloria Coachworks,
an early Triumph specialist. Sold at
low end of what was hoped for, but there are
no precedents here.
#75-1952 JAGUAR XK 120 John May
Special coupe. S/N 679351. Green/red leather.
RHD. Extensively modified, and wheels look
too small for it. Rack-and-pinion steering,
4-pot front brakes, all-synchro box from a 4.2
E-type, roll cage, alternator. All in very good
order, with leather lightly used. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $198,114. Very big money for a
100
inch utility. S/N 17060671. Green/beige
canvas/green vinyl. RHD. Odo: 20 miles. The
most over-restored one I’ve seen yet, with
brightly plated fasteners, etc. Even the rear
silencer is polished. No leaks and looks totally
unused: drip trays underneath it not needed.
runs an electric fan. Leather hardly used, modern
seat belts. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $139,541.
Sold right on the money with perhaps a tiny
profit left in it for retail.
#77-1962 JAGUAR XKE Series I 3.8
coupe. S/N 860472. Eng. # R47599. Silver/red
leather. RHD. Odo: 78,137 miles. Excellent
and well restored. Very good recent repaint in
original color and okay chrome. Lightly
dinged aluminum center console trim, newish
#143-1954 JAGUAR XK 120 coupe. S/N
669108. Green/green & gray leather. Odo:
28,932 miles. What happens when an individual
gets hold of a great car and, er, individualizes
it. Straight and shiny body with
better-than-average door fit. Strange interior
trim in green suede and mushroom leather,
various extra switches and Brantz tripmeter.
ducted for being too shiny. Cond: 1-. SOLD
AT $61,157. Completely pointless, in my opinion,
but the biggest money yet for a restored
S1 Landie. The only ones allowed to be this
shiny are the Queen’s special parade rigs.
#44-1958 ASTON MARTIN DB MK III
coupe. S/N AM30031696. Silver/red leather.
RHD. Odo: 458 miles. Very straight and shiny,
panel gaps are variable as usual, but fairly
tight for the model. Newish leather, DB4GT
front brake calipers, new aftermarket engine
block. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $327,318. Last
sold for $150k at Artcurial’s 2011 Rétromobile
sale (SCM# 169045). Slightly well bought at
under the £220k ($330k) estimate.
#55-1959 JAGUAR XK 150 SE drop-
head coupe. S/N S827443. Red/black cloth/
black leather. RHD. Original right-hand-drive
car shinily (and recently) restored. New
wheels cover Coopercraft front brakes, motor
With later recirculating-ball steering, plus capstan
winch. Cond #1, with half a point de-
Sports Car Market
Page 100
H&H Auctions Duxford, U.K.
leather. Smoothed rear pan, slightly speckled
rear light plinths polished through to copper
plate in places. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $192,946.
Bought at H&H’s Buxton sale in October 2013
wearing green for £42,940 (about $66k). Sold
well over top estimate of $155k, so the paint
job was worthwhile.
#140-1964 JAGUAR C-TYPE replica
racer. S/N P1B5262DN. Green/black leather.
RHD. Odo: 2,180 miles. Very nicely built perfect
copy of a C-type with correct rear suspension
rather than independent back end that’s
the usual carry-over from the donor. Hardura
transmission cover trim, spare plugs, etc., look
almost like new. Leather lightly baggy. Cond:
but more than three times the price of the 2+2
it was based on, so once you factor in the
hours of enjoyment it provided for its late
owner, it’s probably just about washed its face.
#89-1971 ASTON MARTIN DBS V8
you’d keep them if you planned on using it.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $12,059. Sold for
slightly less than I expected, which should
have pleased the man who wanted to buy it on
viewing day. A nice deal.
#144-1969 JAGUAR XKE Lightweight
replica convertible. S/N 1R41065. Green/
beige cloth. RHD. Odo: 24,984 miles. Mildly
hot-rodded E-type along the lines of a Lightweight,
made by Bryan Wingfield from a ’69
2+2 donor car, first on the road in 1992. Older
paint with a bit of road rash around the nose,
crack in windshield, modern stereo, cloth
2. SOLD AT $276,867. Donor was a 1964
S-type with power steering and overdrive,
though obviously only the parts needed made
it on to this replica. For the buyer, compares
very well with the similar car sold at the
Goodwood Members’ Meeting sale in March
2015, which sold well over estimate at $385k
(SCM# 264458).
#4-1964 LAND ROVER SERIES IIA
88-inch utility. S/N 24115027B. Green/black
vinyl. RHD. Odo: 10,423 miles. Nicely refurbed
truck-cab IIA. New paint, new tires.
Solid chassis with at least new rear crossmember
(catalog says whole chassis is new), new
shocks, etc. Canvas tilt top looks newish.
Modern bucket seats look out of place, but
weave seats not yet baggy. Lots of event stickers
confirm it’s been well used and enjoyed.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $232,568. From the
Richard Colton Collection and, like the others,
offered at no reserve. Sold at the price of a
pretty nice 3.8 roadster in this clean condition,
Sotheby Special coupe. S/N DBSV810380R.
Dark blue/green leather. RHD. A famous car
in its day but neglected almost immediately.
Stored badly in various barns for the past 40
years and generally horrid, though body isn’t
rusty, as it’s plastic. Still with its fuel injection,
but multiple taillights missing. Front seats
missing, but rest of leather still there and
might be savable. Cond: 4+. SOLD AT
$135,573. Montreal and Geneva Show Car,
later did the rounds of all the glossy mags but
fell into disrepair when the cigarette brand it
was built to promote failed to take off. Sold
under estimate but fetched the same as a really
nice stock DBS V8 would at auction, so exceptionally
well done. Aston Martin has apparently
offered to help restore it, but as far as I
know, its Heritage division has never done any
fiberglass work.
#40-1971 JAGUAR XKE Series III V12
coupe. S/N 1S50156BW. Black/blue velour.
RHD. Odo: 68,034 miles. Straight and shiny,
with weird velour seats. But the hardware’s
almost irrelevant; the history is all here, being
connected with footballing legend George
Best, and appearing in various news photos of
the time. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $74,077. Not
particularly nice, but fair money because of
the connection with Best, though only used by
him until 1974 and never registered in his
name. No, I don’t know why you’d want a footballer’s
auto E-type with a nasty interior, but
someone will make a killing on it. Price almost
irrelevant here, as whatever the number was,
it’ll be subject to a big markup. But you could
find a nicer example for the money.
#66-1973 ASTON MARTIN V8 Works
development car. S/N V811006RCA. Gold/
black leather. RHD. Odo: 92,888 miles. Fac-
102
Sports Car Market
Page 102
Rising Sun
Selected sales of Japanese collector cars
by Tony Piff
(All text within quotes minimally edited from online descriptions)
#756. 1968 TOYOTA SPRINTER racer. S/N
KE11041951. “Campaigned since early ’70s; includes
period photos, logbooks. Rebuilt race engine
with break-in miles only. Estimated 120 hp more
than adequate for a 1,400-lb car. Doors and trunk lid
have been lightened. Stock chrome bumpers.
Bolt-on fender flares are period pre-TRD steel items.
Seller says it will rev to 9,000 rpm, though he typically
shifts at 8,000.” Condition: 3.
ing Sun
Selected sales of Japanese collector cars
by Tony Piff
(All text within quotes minimally edited from online descriptions)
#756. 1968 TOYOTA SPRINTER racer. S/N
KE11041951. “Campaigned since early ’70s; in-
cludes period photos, logbooks. Rebuilt race engine
with break-in miles only. Estimated 120 hp more
than adequate for a 1,400-lb car. Doors and trunk lid
have been lightened. Stock chrome bumpers.
Bolt-on fender flares are period pre-TRD steel items.
Seller says it will rev to 9,000 rpm, though he typi-
cally shifts at 8,000.” Condition: 3.
H&H
H&H Auctions Duxford, U.K.
tory development car for the carburetor model;
was originally UKX 50L. Horrible and flaky
up top, and rotten underneath that. Leather
lightly creased. Cond: 4. SOLD AT $111,977.
With 350-hp upgrade, up from stock 250 hp.
Cond: 2. SOLD AT $186,116. Early life in
California, back to the U.K. in 2009 after it
sold on eBay for $86k (SCM# 120859) and
returned to original white color. Sold under
the $200k lower estimate, but realistic for a
roadgoing Group B car that you can’t do very
much with.
#5-1987 FORD SIERRA RS Cosworth
hatchback. S/N WP0EXXGBBEGG19084.
Moonstone/black & red velour. RHD. Odo:
57,707 miles. Looks good and original. Well
preserved and interior unworn. Still on a set of
Dunlop SP Sports, if not the original D40s.
In storage since 1987. Offered for restoration
at a realistic £25k–£35k ($37k–$52k), but
more than doubled that. Mad price for any V8
Aston with this many expensive needs.
SOLD AT $10,600. This longtime racer spent much
of its life in Canada, and there was no guarantee
that it could be titled for U.S. streets. With that understanding,
call it well bought and sold for a readyto-go
track toy that will look cooler with each
passing year. Bring A Trailer, December 2, 2015.
#678. 2002 HONDA S2000 convertible. S/N
JHMAP11442T005953. 63,000 miles. “Clean and
unmodified with clean CARFAX. Offered by its
second owner. Upholstery and dash look practically
new, all lights and switch gear work. 6-speed manual.”
Condition: 3+.
#13-1976 JAGUAR XJ12 C coupe. S/N
2G1008BW. Dark green/beige leather. RHD.
Odo: 4,290 miles. A pre-production XJ12 C
modified by Broadspeed with big wheels and
arches. Massively neglected, instruments
smashed as if someone’s been at them with a
light machine gun, seats ripped, front and rear
windows held in with gravity and tape. Pointing
out the dulled paint is almost irrelevant.
Horrible old shed. Cond: 4. SOLD AT
$106,809. Made huge money because it was
Cond: 2. SOLD AT $52,143. Stored from
2002. Sold over the £20k–£24k ($30k–$36k)
estimate, but the right money for the direction
these are going. They’ve almost caught up
with that rival homologation special, the
BMW E30 M3.
SOLD AT $14,100. A Miata is more fun to toss
around within legal limits, but the S2000 is the real
performer. 2002 is the sweet spot, still with the outgoing
F20C VTEC engine with 9k redline, but now
with better sound system, glass rear window with
defroster and other interior updates. Stock condition
and low miles made this a smart buy at a marketcorrect
price. Bring A Trailer, November 3, 2015.
#681. 1970 HONDA N600 coupe. S/N AN6001022709.
58,751 miles. “Longtime California car.
No-expense-spared restoration in 2000.”
Condition: 2+.
the film transport of John Steed (played by the
recently late Patrick Macnee), protagonist in
the late-’70s TV series “The New Avengers”—
a minor action series notable mostly, in this
writer’s opinion, for the nubile presence of
Joanna Lumley as Purdey. Absolutely insane
price, compared with the estimated £10k–£12k
($16k–$19k). Lot 13 was certainly lucky for
the seller.
#78-1986 FORD RS200 coupe. S/N
SFACXXBJ2CGL00135. White/red leather.
Odo: 11,400 miles. Straight, shiny and unscuffed,
new paint, unworn carpets, only driver’s
side leather is lightly creased with use.
SOLD AT $21,500. Seems expensive, but cheap for
the smiles per mile. Very cheap compared to a Fiat
Jolly. Price confirms that I’m not the only person
who wants one. Bring A Trailer, November 4,
2015. ♦
104
proached while filling up a real GT40 with the
words “Nice replica, mate.” There are that
many about. But this looks the part, apart from
the split-rim wheels, and while it’s going to
fool almost no one, it’s only the price of a
much more simple and basic Cobra rep, and
far less than a C-type or even a 911 retroed
into a fake RS 2.7. Just remember to park wide
at toll booths so you can open the door enough
to hand your money out of the roof.
#93-2014 ASTON MARTIN DBR1 replica
racer. S/N EVANTA2013DBR1020.
Sports Car Market
#94-1995 FORD GT40 replica coupe.
S/N GTD40012020012988. White & blue/blue
leather. RHD. We don’t usually include GT40
replicas here, but this one (built by GTD) is
the right shape and at least has almost the right
motor, and the interior’s not too far off, with
right-hand gear change and major dials
roughly in the right orientation (which is why
I can’t read the odo). Reg number could be
GT40 F if you squint hard enough. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $74,216. I have actually been ap
Page 103
H&H Auctions Duxford, U.K.
Green/houndstooth cloth. RHD. Odo: 160
miles. Convincing-looking Evanta replica
(though not if you know how few real ones
exist) built in 2014. Motor is Jag XK driving
through Toyota 5-speed. Good all around, but
trying a bit hard with “E” electrical cut-off
stickers and big mirrors, as if it’s pretending to
be a racer. Weird snakeskin-effect crackle dash
finish, seat cloth unworn. Digi odo but said to
room vinyl. RHD. Odo: 73,213 miles. Very
restored and so low it looks tiny. With fridge,
cooker, etc. Motor is a 2-liter from a Type 4
have 160 miles only. With electric power
steering. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $161,761.
Evanta (not to be confused with Evante, maker
of fake Elans) was the creation of Ant Anstead,
now of TV fame, and this sold for about 30%
more than a Proteus C-type rep, though much
less than for a “tool room” copy of the same.
Perfect for channeling your inner Shelby. I
was going to go off on one about the inappropriate
electric power steering, but you could
always just pull the fuse like I do on our MGF.
FRENCH
#139-1929 RALLY TYPE ABC roadster.
S/N ABC635K. Blue & black/blue leather.
RHD. ABC model name comes from “abaissée,”
French for “lowered,” as this sporting
model runs an underslung chassis. Nicely kept
rather than restored, with older paint, lovely
brass/nickel radiator shell and lights, plus distressed
leather. And a rather home-made look-
in Stuttgart. Cond: 3. SOLD AT $53,881. Imported
from Germany to the U.K. “many years
ago,” but presumably originally a U.S.-market
car. Even with the trunk issue, it looks pretty
cheap for the amount of motor you’re getting—but
that’s until you come to fix it. I suspect
this one will be punted out to retail pretty
fast.
#109-1987 PORSCHE 911 3.2 Carrera
ing remote shift linkage. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT
$125,759. Ran in the MCC Land’s End Trial in
1929, followed by the Brooklands Double
Twelve. Later in the Doune Collection until
2003, and appeared in the Cartier Style et
Luxe concours at Goodwood in 2014. Sold at
just enough to buy it at less than Amilcar
money.
GERMAN
#137-1966 VOLKSWAGEN TRANS-
PORTER 11-window Westfalia camper bus.
S/N 226047358. Blue/beige cloth & mush-
February 2016
105
RS replica coupe. S/N WP0ZZZ9ZH5101398.
White/black vinyl & velour. Odo:
21,205 km. 3.2 Carrera made into an RS Car-
with transmission from a 1303S Beetle. All
good except slightly soiled driver’s seat.
Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $61,157. Nothing like the
money a genuine 21-window Samba would
get, but given that it sold here for less than it
would cost to build again, looks a reasonable
buy.
#118-1970 MERCEDES-BENZ 600 se-
dan. S/N 10001222001909. Dark green/tan
leather. RHD. Odo: 106,724 miles. Good recent
repaint, chrome and leather. Trunk lid sits
very proud on right. Most of timber pretty
good, although some varnish is lifting. Catalog
says it’s just been gone through by a specialist
RM Sotheby’s Hershey, PA
RM Sotheby’s — Hershey 2015
A huge 1913 Pierce-Arrow Model 66-A with an 825-ci I6 sold for $831k
Company
RM Sotheby’s
Date
October 8–9, 2015
Location
Hershey, PA
Auctioneer
Max Girardo
Automotive lots sold/offered
143/149
Sales rate
96%
Sales total
$15,989,900
High sale
1913 Pierce-Arrow Model
66-A tourer, sold at $830,500
Buyer’s premium
Only 14 known to survive — 1913 Pierce-Arrow Model 66-A tourer, sold at $830,500
Report and photos by Chuck Hoffman
Market opinions in italics
T
here were seven vendors at the 1955
Hershey AACA meet. Today the event
has grown to 9,000 vendor spaces,
with 1,000 cars in the corral and an
estimated 250,000 visitors from all over the
world every year.
In conjunction with this very special week, RM
Sotheby’s holds their two-day auction at the nearby
Hershey Lodge. The auction house has been a mainstay
since 2007, when their one-day sale of 111 vehicles
brought in $12.3m. This year’s selection of 149 automobiles
brought in $15.9m, with a sell-through of 96%, for
a 15% increase over Hershey 2014.
The sale is known for excellent pre-war and Brass
Era cars, and this year did not disappoint. Other items
adding to the variety were a 1965 Volkswagen 21-window
Hershey, PA
Samba bus, sold at $102k; a 1925 Henderson Deluxe motorcycle
with sidecar at $58k; and a 1932 Garwood triplecockpit
runabout boat, powered by a V12 and sold at $190k.
This year’s auction featured the lifelong collection of vehicles
and memorabilia of the late Richard Roy. Roy attended
Hershey for almost 40 years, so it seemed appropriate to disburse his collection here.
Most of his cars had not been shown in public since the mid-1960s, and most were in
as-found condition. The collection of 25 vehicles, all sold without reserve, included a
1923 Mercer 6 that was a steal at $823k. A one-third-scale resin model of a World War
II P51 Mustang sold for an astounding $22k.
There were 10 cars on offer from the collection of Harold Coker, who died in 2014.
Coker was the founder of Coker Tire, and he restored
and showed many of his cars. He was very
active in the AACA, serving as President in the
early 1970s. Eight of the 10 Coker vehicles sold.
He reportedly had a fondness for Thomas automobiles,
and two were at this auction, including
one regarded as “the most authentic 1905
Thomas.” It sold for $220k. The high seller in
the Coker Collection was a sporty 1911 National
Model 40 Speedway roadster at $385k.
Top sale for the auction was a huge 1913
1957 Fiat 600 Multipla microbus, sold at $49,500
108
Pierce-Arrow Model 66-A 7-passenger tourer
with an 825-ci 6-cylinder engine. After a
pitched bidding war from the Internet and the
floor, it sold for $831k against a pre-sale estimate
of $550k–$650k. That’s what happens when you
bring the right car to the right venue. ♦
Sales Totals
$15m
$12m
$9m
$6m
$3m
0
Sports Car Market
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
10%, included in sold prices
Page 108
RM Sotheby’s Hershey, PA
CANADIAN
#280-1931 MCLAUGHLIN-BUICK SE-
RIES 90 convertible coupe. S/N 197686.
Eng. # 2735798. Burgundy & cream/tan/tan
leather. Odo: 21,170 miles. Ontario-built
Buick. Paint mostly good, with some dust imperfections.
Exterior chrome in good condition.
Leather seat is excellent. Some interior
nickel painted over. Dash chrome tarnished.
King Seeley fuel gauge in need of restoration.
for diehard “Downton Abbey” fans. Bought
not much over the low estimate. It previously
sold for $120k at a 1993 Sotheby’s sale (SCM#
20325) and for $550k at RM Scottsdale 2012
(SCM# 192709), which would seem to confirm
the price paid today.
An overall solid driver. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT
$77,000. This big convertible classic with a
rumble seat was bid up to $30k with no reserve
and stalled. I was almost ready to bid
myself before it rumbled up to its final bid, still
$30k under the low estimate. With fully restored
Series 90s selling in the $140k range,
this would not need much to get to that level.
Very well bought.
#284-1958 PONTIAC PARISIENNE
convertible. S/N 8786745646. Eng. # D3822.
Black/white/red & white vinyl. Odo: 60,013
miles. 348-ci V8, 3x2-bbl, 4-sp. Ten-year-old
restoration holding up well. Paint has some
polishing swirls. Convertible top in good
shape. Interior is nice and well detailed with
usual motometer looks to be in working order.
Interior in fine shape. Clean little engine bay.
Unusual custom-bodied minicar. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $27,500. This little car caught the
attention of the crowd and had a good story to
go with it. The sale price reflects the continued
interest in all things cute.
no damage. Four-speed on the floor is reportedly
unique to this car. Very sharp 1950s
cruiser. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $72,000. Run
through the auction as a no-sale, it sold later
but still well below the $90k low estimate. This
was a beautiful Canadian convertible with
rare options. Well bought.
ENGLISH
#162-1914 ROLLS-ROYCE SILVER
GHOST landaulette. S/N 25EB. Eng. # 89M.
Cream/tan leather & cloth. RHD. Ex-John
O’Quinn. Still holds its 2005 restoration well.
Excellent paint with some of the best plating
work I’ve seen. The C.A. Vandervell headlights
are beautiful. Top, interior and woodwork
all excellent. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$577,500. An impressive piece of fine machinery
from a bygone era. Perfect wedding car
110
#153-1931 ASTON MARTIN 1½-LITER
INTERNATIONAL 2/4 seater drophead
coupe. S/N A1100. Eng. # A1100. Green/
green leather. RHD. Odo: 50,071 km. Recently
recommissioned with new wiring, tires,
interior and wood-veneered dash. The paint
has some chips and checks but holds a good
shine. Wheels also look recently done. Gauges
in good shape. Really nice early Aston. Cond:
2-. SOLD AT $280,500. This car drew lots of
#152-1927 AUSTIN SEVEN coupe. S/N
36828. Eng. # M36874. Blue/tan cord. RHD.
Odo: 3,621 miles. Custom-bodied Austin originally
built for the Pulitzer family. The paint is
in good condition, with some thinning on the
cowl. Fabric top is in excellent condition. Serious
door sag could be cause for alarm. Un-
a stain on the back seat. Beautiful rosewood
dash. Overall nice example. Cond: 2-. SOLD
AT $52,250. It would not take much to bring
this Allard up a notch. A nice cruiser equipped
with seat belts, hidden stereo and trafficators.
Considering that it sold at Mecum Monterey in
2013 for $47k (SCM# 230476), this price does
not look out of line.
#181-1951 JAGUAR MK V drophead
coupe. S/N 647465. Eng. # T8134. Red/
beige/beige leather. Odo: 1,099 km. Very welldone
paint with no obvious blemishes. All
chrome very nice, drop top in excellent shape
attention in the tent prior to the auction. It
sold previously in 2010 at RM Arizona for
$154,000 and on eBay in 2006 (SCM# 41381).
Bidding was fast from the phone, Internet and
the floor and settled at the high end of estimate.
The new owner will not be disappointed.
#175-1948 ALLARD L-TYPE tourer.
S/N L743. Burgundy/gray/gray leather. RHD.
Odo: 17,714 miles. Said to be one of 200 Ltypes
made. It was brought over from England
some time after 1994, going by the stillmounted
tax disc. Nice paint, some chrome
blemishes. The flathead Ford V8 is clean.
Door alignment is off. Nice interior except for
and a flawless interior. Well-done restoration
of a stately Jag. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $93,500.
This desirable early Jaguar with the bigger
engine and excellent restoration will not disappoint
the discriminating owner. Well bought
at the low end of estimate.
#286-1965 AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000 Mk
III BJ8 convertible. S/N HBJ832329. Eng. #
29KRUH6987. Green/black/black vinyl. Odo:
29,098 miles. Two-owner car. The repaint is
average with a fair amount of orange peel and
evidence of overspray and shoddy taping on
the glass. Dirty, poor-fitting top. Some tonneau
latches missing. Wire wheels need refinishing.
Wood damage on dash. Much work to be
done. Cond: 4. SOLD AT $49,500. This car
Sports Car Market
Page 110
1951. Mostly original paint is tired and shows
the usual road chips and scratches from use.
Most chrome components are well worn and
in need of replating, including that big Benz
grille. The top is said to have not been lowered
for many years. Cond: 4+. SOLD AT $30,250.
Nice little unrestored post-war Benz with a
neat spin to it. Well bought at $10k under low
estimate.
#274-1958 MERCEDES-BENZ 220S
reportedly had $40k worth of work done recently.
Unfortunately, none of that work is
visible. This was a tired Austin-Healey in need
of some tender loving care. Even below estimate,
well sold.
FRENCH
#256-1897 LÉON BOLLÉE voiturette.
S/N 891. Blue/black leather. MHD. Older restoration
with paint holding up, brass good.
Engine has had some major components replaced.
The leather seats are excellent. Looks
like a well-maintained piece of history. Cond:
2-. SOLD AT $126,500. This car had a promi-
inside liner. Red leather interior very nice.
Wood dash has some cracks and peeling finish.
Will not take much to raise it up a notch.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $110,000. This 220 has a
long ownership history, and everything is
there to make a fine touring car. Bought fairly.
#250-1965 VOLKSWAGEN TRANS-
nent place at the entrance to the auction.
Many curious onlookers stood around trying
to figure out how it might work. It shot right
past the high estimate and kept going, selling
well above its $70k–$90k target price. Expensive
for what it is, but doubtful you will see
another soon.
GERMAN
#150-1951 MERCEDES-BENZ 170DA
OTP police tourer. S/N 13013951. Eng. #
1303451. Police Green/black/black leather.
Odo: 42,740 km. Said to be one of 531 dieselpowered
Police Specials built from 1948 to
haps?) Reportedly has an upgraded engine and
transmission. Interior is well done. Nice recent
restoration of an icon. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$101,750. This bus had few flaws showing. A
fun-in-the-sun vehicle that looked ready to go.
Last sold in 2013 at Gooding & Company
Amelia Island for $99,000; the price here
looked right.
ITALIAN
#257-1957 FIAT 600 Multipla microbus.
S/N 100108043042. Eng. # 2073640. Green/
green vinyl. Odo: 51 miles. Beautiful paint
job; everything else in almost perfect condi-
112
Sports Car Market
PORTER 21-window Samba bus. S/N
245030699. Sealing Wax Red & white/silver
& beige vinyl. Odo: 87,265 miles. Flawless
paint, perfect glass, shiny chrome. Engine bay
clean with the exception of acid overflow in
the battery tray. (Overcharging issue, per-
cabriolet. S/N 180030Z8518726. Eng. #
1800111301. Ivory/black/red leather. Odo:
25,435 miles. Miles are reported to be 125,435
with an engine rebuild at 123,000. New paint
in 2014 shows some orange peel and is thin in
the jambs. Convertible top is in good shape on
the outside but has some moth holes on the
Page 112
RM Sotheby’s Hershey, PA
tion. Someone spent lots of time and money
on this little car. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $49,500.
This Multipla sold at RM Monterey with
good, with some blemishes. Lots of brass in
good condition. Leather interior in good shape
but missing half the trim tacks along the rear
seat edge, causing the trim to pull away in
places. Engine bay tidy but not detailed. Nice
very early tourer. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT
$220,000. This Thomas flyer has a long documented
history, and was described in the catalog
as “the most authentic known.” Though
this car had a reserve, it was let go at well
below the $375k–$500k estimate. Very well
bought.
#238-1907 THOMAS FLYER 4/60 run-
matching Fiat Jolly as a single lot last year
for $231k (SCM# 245083). I guess the owner
decided two Fiat 600s was one too many. It
couldn’t have been a garage space problem. A
fair deal for the buyer.
AMERICAN
#149-1903 PIERCE 1-CYLINDER
Stanhope. S/N 302. Eng. # 83. Black/
black leather. RHD. This forerunner
of Pierce-Arrow has older paint showing
cracks from shrinking wood. Nice wood spoke
wheels shod with tires in need of replacement.
The simple exposed single cylinder of Pierce’s
BEST
BUY
generator and lights are plumbed. A solid if
not original example. Cond: 1. SOLD AT
$330,000. From the Coker Collection. Fitted
with a starter and updated ignition, this
Thomas Flyer may not be original, but it
would make a fun touring car. This car still
sold for cheap money considering the quality
of work.
own design is clean and looks complete. Recommissioned
in 2009. Rare and interesting
car. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $57,750. This London-to-Brighton-eligible
Pierce should be
ready to go with its recently rebuilt engine.
Front compartment opens up, providing seating
for two brave passengers way out in front.
Another no-reserve excellent buy.
#244-1905 THOMAS FLYER No. 25
tourer. S/N N/A. Eng. # B14. Red/tan leather.
RHD. Reportedly original wood frame and
sheet metal. Long known history. Paint is
older restoration of an obscure American
make. Cond: 3-. SOLD AT $22,000. This cute
early air-cooled runabout had lots of character,
if not horsepower. Equipped with rackand-pinion
steering and its air-cooled twin, I
114
storied history, nicknamed the Yellow Peril.
With the mother-in-law seat and running
board seat, you can actually fit three passengers
and scare the heck out of them. This sale
was the second highest of the auction but still
did not crack the $700k low estimate. The
SCM Platinum Auction Database shows that it
sold at $113k at Christie’s in 1999 (SCM#
12198) and no-saled at World Classic in 1991
at $140k (SCM# 214).
Sports Car Market
#131-1907 VICTOR runabout. S/N 38.
Eng. # 38. Green/black leather. RHD. Old restoration
with green hand-brushed paint faded
and brass tarnished. Mesh grille front in good
condition. Newer solid tires on decent wood
wheels. Leather interior grimy but intact. Unusual
air-cooled horizontal twin engine surprisingly
clean. Wicker basket moldy. Nice
Clean engine bay. Leather interior very good.
Minimal instrumentation. Very nice early
sports car. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $385,000.
Indianapolis-based National was one of the
early manufacturer participants in the Indy
500. With a very nice restoration and the
Brickyard connection, this car sold well above
the high estimate. Very well sold.
#262-1911 OLDSMOBILE AUTOCRAT
Yellow Peril roadster. S/N 65877. Yellow/
black leather. RHD. Period race car with nonoriginal
body. 2008 restoration holding up
extremely well. Mother-in-law seat added by
1929, according to catalog. Also has runningboard
seat. Nice paint and brightwork. Engine
bay clean. Interior excellent. Imposing old
race car looks ready to tour. Cond: 1-. SOLD
AT $698,500. A large classic race car with a
about. S/N N/A. Eng. # D212. French Gray/
burgundy leather. RHD. This Thomas flyer
was assembled using many Thomas parts;
body, transmission and cylinder castings were
newly manufactured. Paint, brass, engine and
interior are all excellent. Even the acetylene
imagine it was a spirited little machine in its
day. Thorough documentation all the way back
to 1916 and the fully documented restoration
made it an attractive buy. Well bought and
sold.
#240-1911 NATIONAL MODEL 40
Speedway roadster. S/N N/A. Eng. # 8307.
Blue/black canvas/black leather. RHD. Another
car from the Coker Collection. Recent
restoration shows good paint with the exception
of some orange peel and a couple of runs.
Top is like new. Brasswork is polished and in
good condition. Huge radiator in good shape.
Page 114
RM Sotheby’s Hershey, PA
#154-1913 LOCOMOBILE MODEL 48
Type M tonneau. S/N 6410. Eng. # 6410.
White/black/black leather. Nice early, bigengined
Locomobile with excellent paint and
pinstriping. Nice brasswork all around, as well
as the top and mechanism. Interior very nice
with seat belts added. Well-sorted big tourer.
Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $242,000. This Brass
“RITE” turn signal lights in the back. A Packard
that looks ready to go on any tour. Sold
just at low estimate. Previously sold at a
Christie’s auction in 2000 for $171k (SCM#
10222) and at Gooding’s 2013 Pebble Beach
auction for $468k (SCM# 227462). Well
bought today.
#258-1915 CRETORS MODEL C pop-
Era car had all the right things done to make
it a wonderful modern-day tourer. Rear hydraulic
brake conversion, seat belts, fuel
pump, distributor ignition and halogen headlights
all help tame this beast and will make it
a pleasurable ride. Last sold at auction right
here in Hershey in 2008 for $357,500 (SCM#
118290). Very well bought.
#267-1913 PIERCE-ARROW MODEL
66-A tourer. S/N 66667. Eng. # 66667. Red/
black/black leather. RHD. Odo: 9,794 miles.
Imposing Brass Era Pierce with paint only
showing some swirl marks. Massive 825-ci I6
is very clean. Interior sparkles with no noticeable
defects. Very desirable, but only 14
known to survive. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$830,500. Another Brass Era car with a great
story to go with it. Once owned and used by
the Chicago Fire Department. This had the
most competitive bidding of the auction and
created quite a stir. In the end it sold almost
$200k above its high estimate. Very well sold.
#254-1914 PACKARD SIX SERIES 1-38
tourer. S/N 39441. Eng. # 39441. Olive Green
& black/black/black leather. Odo: 16,164
miles. Flawless paint on a huge car. All nickel
plating excellent. Door gaps perfect. Leather
interior, dash and gauges look new. Engine
compartment just beautiful. Known history
back to 1918. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $412,500.
This beautiful Packard won a second in class
at Pebble Beach in 2010. It always had a
crowd around it during the preview. Lots of
interesting features such as “LEFT” and
116
Rare and ornate popcorn truck. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $231,000. Another “what do you
do with it” vehicle. It was reportedly used at
the Harrah’s museum to sell popcorn, so I
guess there’s no reason it couldn’t continue
doing that now. Still a great-looking piece of
Americana and sold under the $250k low estimate.
#127-1916 REPUBLIC FOUR beer
truck. S/N 1012958. Eng. # 67800N. Black &
yellow/black leather. Faded paint all around
steering and controls, so vehicle can be driven
from the front seat or rear. Velour interior
holding up well. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT
$66,000. A neat little electric with huge windows
all around and crazy dual steering and
controls. Sold right in the middle of estimate,
and the sale price seemed fair.
#161-1923 DUESENBERG MODEL A
phaeton. S/N 977. Eng. # 1373. Velvet Green/
tan cloth/Oak Green leather. Odo: 2,365 miles.
1920s Cadillac body fitted to an original Duesenberg
chassis and drivetrain. Excellent paint
and body, exquisite interior and pristine engine.
A well-documented car with 67 years of
corn truck. S/N 9112. Eng. # 7539. Red &
white/red leather. RHD. Odo: 49 miles. Red
paint is crazed and faded. Elaborate pinstriping
in good condition. Solid tires have flat
spots from long-term storage. All nickel work
looks good. Cooking gear looks ready to use.
looks original. Wood components in surprisingly
good condition except for one termiteridden
crossmember. Yellow frame and frame
details in good condition. Solid tires in need of
replacement for anything other than static display.
Leather bench seat very worn but intact.
Engine bay dirty but looks complete. Cond: 4.
SOLD AT $19,800. This truck garnered spirited
bidding and rightly so with its local Pennsylvania
history, rarity, originality and general
completeness. Although it will require some
recommissioning—and the Continental 4-cylinder
is a big unknown—it could be a fun hayride
truck or local parade participant once it’s
been gone through. A good buy for the truckminded.
#237-1920 RAUCH & LANG MODEL
C-45 electric car. S/N 90127. Blue/blue velour.
Older restoration of an interesting electric
car. Nice body paint. Fender paint shows some
blemishes. Lots of glass, all in good condition,
including the double-venting windshield. Vinyl
top nice. Wheels need to be redone. Dual
family ownership. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$374,000. Former Duesenberg factory test
driver Karl Killorin purchased this in the
1940s, and it stayed in the family until this
Sports Car Market
Page 116
RM Sotheby’s Hershey, PA
sale. The restoration and care were obviously
second to none. An exceptional example with a
strong price to prove it.
BEST
BUY
#144-1923 MERCER SERIES 6
sporting. S/N 20239. Eng. # 101291.
Blue & black/black canvas/maroon
leather. Odo: 135 miles. Paint cracking in
many places and doubtful that it can be salvaged.
Canvas top in good condition, nice top
bows. Wheels are holding up well. Tires are
older but show no signs of cracking. No visible
rust or wood rot. Leather interior panels
are very nice, including seats and door. Steer-
SOLD AT $93,500. This big two-seater had
great presence. With matching numbers, powerful
engine for the era and a big 138-inch
wheelbase, this was a good buy toward the
low end of the $80k–$120k estimate.
#148-1929 ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM
I Ascot tourer. S/N S368LR. Eng. # 21689.
Pewter & maroon/tan canvas/tan leather. Odo:
81,900 miles. U.S.-manufactured Rolls-Royce
Ascot phaeton, said to be one of 28 built.
Showing nice paint with some small crazing
developing. Brightwork excellent. Woodwork
and running boards are beautiful. Tires and
wheels also in fine condition. Recent $40,000
gremlins lurk for those inclined to use it as
intended. Well bought.
#261-1930 CADILLAC 452 V16 coupe.
S/N 53. Eng. # 701540. Black & pewter/tan
leather. Odo: 72,217 miles. Nice paint with
some swirl marks. Red pinstriping complements
the colors. All chrome excellent, including
the chrome wire wheels with newer tires.
ing wheel is flaking and in need of restoration.
Engine bay clean and complete. A nice example
of a late Mercer. Cond: 3. SOLD AT
$82,500. One of the themes of the collection of
the late Richard Roy was vehicles with local
New Jersey and Pennsylvania history. This
Mercer 6 built in Trenton, NJ, is a good example.
An ex-Harrah car, it is well documented
and very complete. Said to be one of
only 16 examples left in existence. Though in
need of a repaint, it was one of the best buys
of the auction at less than half the $175k low
estimate. Very well bought.
#136-1925 PIERCE-ARROW MODEL
33 runabout. S/N 340988. Eng. # 340987.
Blue & black/tan canvas/black leather. Odo:
31,703 miles. Older repaint in okay condition
with fading and some cracking. Radiator
splash panel unpainted and heavily scratched.
Some body hardware missing and some incorrect.
Brightwork faded. Newer top in very
good condition. New tires. Leather interior
mechanical restoration reportedly included
new cylinder blocks and head. Ready for touring.
Cond: 2. SOLD AT $302,500. Pulled
from RM’s Plymouth auction in July of 2014
for engine problems, which I assume resulted
in the recent $40k in mechanical work. This
Rolls looked well kept and ready to enjoy. With
a well-documented history and long known by
the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club. Well bought at
the low end of the $300k–$350k estimate.
#126-1929 ROOSEVELT EIGHT sedan.
S/N S703851. Eng. # S5340. Brown/tan mohair.
Odo: 1,138 miles. Mostly original paint is
cracked and chipped. No evidence of door sag.
Panosote roof in good condition. Wire wheels
look refurbished. Unobtainium badging is intact.
Tires look new. Mohair interior looks
original and in good condition. Interior dome
light unattached. Nice gauges. Engine bay
Engine bay detailed. Leather interior looks
unused. Excellent example of a rare coupe.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $319,000. This car was
apparently rescued from a life as a demolition
derby car in the 1950s! From there to second
in class at Pebble Beach in 2013 is quite a
journey. A magnificent car. Well bought.
#271-1931 STUTZ DV32 convertible.
S/N DV421383. Eng. # DV33096. Blue/tan/
tan cloth. Odo: 66,011 miles. Reportedly original
save for one repaint. The paint shows some
chipping and peeling. Glass is cracked and
delaminating. Bumper chrome is peeling. Landau
bars are painted. Passenger’s front door
sags. Cloth interior is moth-eaten. Engine bay
tidy but shows some leaks. Leather-covered
trunk shows lots of character. A surviving
original example of a desirable classic. Cond:
4+. SOLD AT $159,500. This car had lots of
patina and very good bones. The tan top and
interior looked like they may have been originally
white. The seat covers may be too far
gone to salvage, but with today’s passion for
originality, shoo the moths out the window and
go. Fair deal all around.
#260-1932 LINCOLN MODEL KB pha-
intact but in need of repairs. Nice dash looks
complete. Engine bay clean and looks like all
the hard-to-find bits are present. Mostly wellpreserved
CCCA Full Classic. Cond: 3-.
118
clean, but wiring is brittle and fragile. Overall
very nice survivor from a little-known marque.
Even has a profile of Teddy Roosevelt on the
radiator badge. Cond: 3-. SOLD AT $10,450.
The Roosevelt was made by Marmon and only
lasted two years. It was the first straight8-powered
car priced under $1,000. This
mostly original example had lots of patina and
seemed well cared for, although age-related
eton. S/N KB1367. Eng. # KB1367. Belmont
Brown/beige/brown leather. Odo: 239 miles.
Body re-created after original was lost. Nonoriginal
transmission from a 1935 said to improve
drivability. Well-done restoration
holding up well with all major components in
excellent condition. Equipped with a very nice
trunk. A beautiful classic with its raked windshields,
sidemounts and V12, but I thought the
color did not suit it—although it’s reportedly
period-correct. A very solid car. Cond: 1.
Sports Car Market
Silverstone Oxfordshire, U.K.
Silverstone — Salon Privé
A very purple Blu Scuro 1998 Lamborghini Diablo SV sold at $282k, $40k over
its estimate, and a 1999 Ferrari 550 Maranello sold for $168k
Company
Silverstone Auctions
Date
September 4, 2015
Location
Oxfordshire, U.K.
Auctioneer
Jonathan Humbert
Automotive lots sold/offered
35/62
Sales rate
56%
Sales total
$7,576,390
High sale
1968 Aston Martin DB6
Vantage Volante, sold at
$1,370,363
Buyer’s premium
12.5%, included in sale rates
($1 = £0.66)
Sold $40k over top estimate — 1998 Lamborghini Diablo SV coupe, sold at $281,686
Report and photos by Paul Hardiman
Market opinions in italics
S
ilverstone Auctions’ second Salon Privé
sale moved — along with the Salon Privé
Concours d’Elegance — from Syon
House in West London to the magnificent
grounds of Blenheim Palace, Winston Churchill’s
birthplace.
This was Silverstone’s first drive-through auction,
and several cars went significantly over their pre-sale
predictions, including a 1970 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 at
$283k, $34k above top estimate. Silverstone found yet
Oxfordshire, U.K.
another low-mileage ’80s Ferrari — this time a 1,600-mile 1989 328 GTS that
had once been in the collection of Mohamed Al-Fayed — and it achieved $209k,
$13k over estimate. A very purple Blu Scuro 1998 Lamborghini Diablo SV
with sports exhaust sold at $282k, $40k over its estimate, and a 1999 550
Maranello showed that this modern front-engined V12 Ferrari has come of
age, selling for a $54k-over-high-estimate $168k.
The top lot, a DB6 Vantage Volante in California Sage Green, was on
the money at almost $1.4m, but several of the other top lots did not sell,
most notably an Aston Martin DB4 Series V Vantage ($880k, not enough), a 1973
Porsche RS 2.7 Carrera (about $40k light at $660k) and a U.S.-domiciled-until-2014
Ferrari Daytona (bid to $740k). But a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTE topped a half-million
dollars, and later Porsche RSs did well: a 2011 997 GT3 RS 4.0 achieved $428k, and a
2010 911 GT2 RS — one of the fastest-ever production Porsches and one of 16 U.K.supplied
RHD cars — achieved even more at $480k. A 1986 911 SuperSport with
just 743 km was offered at no reserve, which often triggers fierce bidding, and sure
enough, it made four times the price of a clean 3.2 Carrera at $248k.
A small clutch of low-mileage luxury cars — three Mercs and a Daimler Double
Six — were offered from the same seller at no reserve, and all did well. The ’86
560SEC finally made the same money as a top M635 CSi at $40k, the ’88 Daimler
with just 330 km looked like a good value at $22k, and a 5,734-km ’85 280SE sedan
sold for a very strong $24k.
So once again, ’80s and later cars took the lead at a Silverstone sale. As boss Nick
Top seller — 1968 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage Volante, sold at
$1,370,363
122
Whale, himself a former main dealer in such exotica, noted, “Silverstone Auctions is
a leader in ’70s, ’80s and ’90s classics — exactly the cars that received the highest
prices of the night.” ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 122
Silverstone Oxfordshire, U.K.
ENGLISH
#225-1934 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE three-
position drophead coupe. S/N B185AE.
RHD. Odo: 67,000 miles. Dusty and musty
resto project, history known from new and
dry-stored for 50 years. Looks to be all there,
but lots of the interior and trim is piled up inside,
and most of the paint is stripped off.
Dash timber okay, altimeter fitted. Replated
parts done in late ’60s still wrapped in 1967
Offered at no reserve, this looked a pretty
good deal for a very-low-mileage XJ, given
how prices of the earlier cars have gathered
steam over the past couple of years. S3 has the
biggest glass area and is, to my mind, the most
elegant, apart from heavy-handed taillights
and bumpers.
#255-2015 JAGUAR XK-SS replica
newspaper in the trunk. One headlight lens
cracked. Motor better than the rest of it. Jack
still clipped to bulkhead. Cond: 4. SOLD AT
$141,604. Sold at top estimate. Though much
of it is well preserved, it’s going to cost almost
as much to restore as a basket case, so what
we have here is another leap of faith until values
catch up. Well done.
#243-1957 ASTON MARTIN DB2/4 Mk
II coupe. S/N AM3001202. Dark green/tan
leather. RHD. Odo: 14,042 miles. Straight and
shiny following resto and repaint in original
colors about 2011. Formerly Dubonnet Rosso.
Good, tight panel gaps for a 2/4, new leather.
Ran in the 2013 Mille Miglia and still carries
matic, but around 2004 changed to manual
with overdrive, plus the addition of the extra
carb, and electric power steering added. Cond:
2. NOT SOLD AT $880,000. Almost a DB5...
but top bid of £580k was almost £100k
($150k) shy of the lower estimate, which admittedly
did look rather ambitious. The general
consensus, talking to dealers and
consultants over the past couple of sales, is
that the market has slipped back a bit, but
perhaps there’s going to be a little lag before
auction companies revise their sale estimates
downward to suit.
TOP 10
No. 5
#211-1968 ASTON MARTIN DB6
Vantage Volante. S/N DBVC3698R.
Eng. # 4003650VC. Green/gray
leather. RHD. Odo: 92,060 miles. Deadstraight
with good panel gaps, newish leather,
rear seat belts, modern face-off stereo. Solid
July, it failed to sell at a $300k high bid
(SCM# 266393), possibly due to worries about
what sort of number it would receive if you
registered it in the U.K., following a clampdown
by our DVLA on old vehicles that are
really new. Lynx and Silverstone gave their
assurance that they would assist with registration,
and this time got it away for a bit under
the £275k ($412k) a dealer had been asking
for six months. Under the circumstances, I’d
call that well sold.
chassis rails but some weld repairs in floorpans,
newish exhausts. Cond: 2. SOLD AT
$1,370,363. One of 29 DB6 Vantage Volantes,
according to catalog. In the U.S. 2011–13.
Sold mid-estimate at the right money.
#203-1988 DAIMLER DOUBLE SIX
the roundels and numbers. Cond: 2-. SOLD
AT $392,837. Sold into the previous ownership
at Bonhams’ Weybridge sale in December
2010 for £53k ($80k), having been bought at
The Autodrome in London in 1991. In this
ownership since 2013. Sold where expected, at
the going rate for a decent 2/4 or Mk III.
#222-1963 ASTON MARTIN DB4 Series
V Vantage coupe. S/N DB41197R. Eng. #
3701198. Green/red leather. RHD. Odo:
83,480 miles. Excellent paint and chrome.
Okay panel gaps, except driver’s door is a
little inset at bottom rear corner. New carpets
and leather, rear belts. Sundym glass, including
heated rear window from new. Solid underneath,
although rocker flanges and joints
are a bit moth-eaten. Avon ZZs are an encouraging
sign, though. Was originally an auto-
124
then in Texas and finally Florida for a short
time before coming to the U.K. Offered at no
reserve and sold fair for a nice, driver-quality
356 coupe in the U.K. market.
#209-1966 MERCEDES-BENZ 250SE
caps are a bit bling but will make someone
happy, as will three-spoke Nardi wheel. Cond:
2+. SOLD AT $22,268. German supplied.
cabriolet. S/N 11102322084512. Black/red
leather. RHD. Odo: 78,794 miles. Straight,
shiny, newish leather and carpets, rear belts.
Excellent rechrome, dash veneers and dash
Sports Car Market
Series III sedan. S/N SAJDDRLW4CM479386.
Blue/gray & blue leather. Odo: 3,300
km. Cue the old jokes about low mileage because
Jag V12s aren’t usually running. This
one is tidy and well kept, with only lightly
used leather. Repainted from Dorchester Gray
in 1996. Chromed wires and stainless arch
GERMAN
#236-1960 PORSCHE 356B T-5 coupe.
S/N 109041. Ruby Red/charcoal leather. Odo:
58,236 miles. Tidily (and recently) restored
dry-state car. New paint and leather. Porsche
Certificate of Authenticity. Cond: 2-. SOLD
AT $89,074. Originally supplied to California,
roadster. S/N P1R431038W. Black/red
leather. Odo: 74 miles. “10th of nine” Lynx
XK-SS replicas, completed early 2015. Donor
was a ’69 E-type sourced in the U.S. In excellent
order, as it’s effectively brand new, and
offered with a 12-month warranty. I’ve driven
this, and it pulls like a train. Cond: 1-. SOLD
AT $376,850. At the Silverstone Classic in
Page 124
Silverstone Oxfordshire, U.K.
Certificate of Authenticity. Cond: 2-. NOT
SOLD AT $660,000. Originally supplied to
Germany, then Italy before coming to the U.K.
in recent years. Not sold at £430k, which is
top. New top. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $102,777.
Originally in Sierra Leone, then South Africa
and Northern Ireland before arriving in England.
Looks like a great value against the 3.5
V8 (280SE 3.5) version, which would be about
twice the money.
#221-1972 PORSCHE 911T coupe. S/N
9112500589. Light Yellow/charcoal leather.
Odo: 93,559 km. Oil-flap car originally supplied
in Germany, restored 2012. Straight and
rot-free. New charcoal leather. Motor dry as a
bone underneath, new oil pipes, exhausts, Nylocs.
Cond: 2. SOLD AT $111,342. Poverty
model, but that doesn’t matter as much as condition,
and here it sold for the right money,
though that was less than it cost to restore, so
the buyer got a good deal. Hopefully oil-flap
body will prevent it being made into an S or
RS clone.
#216-1973 PORSCHE 911 Carrera RS
Touring coupe. S/N 9113601175. Eng. #
6631147. Light Yellow/black vinyl & houndstooth
cloth. Odo: 10,953 km. M472 Touring,
straight and tidy. Restored 1999. New houndstooth/berber
cloth. Motor bone-dry underneath,
all new pipes and Nylocs. With Porsche
well under recent RS sales, though if you look
back at the results, not one sold at U.K. auction
in the 12 months before this. A curious
no-sale for a model in the U.S. which remains
very desirable merchandise. But perhaps
U.K. buyers have a different view.
Unclear if this represents the wider market,
or just one car at one auction without the
right buyer in the room.
#228-1975 PORSCHE 911 Carrera
Targa. S/N 9115610050. Guards Red/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 82,138 miles. One of only
six MFI Targas sold in the U.K., according to
catalog. Color changed from blue during refurb
in 1995, 20,000 miles ago. Trunk lid fits
well proud at front, leather lightly worn in.
Porsche Certificate of Authenticity says it had
these spoilers and wider seven-inch/eight-inch
wheels from new. Irish title. Cond: 3+. SOLD
AT $130,000. MFI seems to be the latest buzzword
here in the U.K., as you get the same
motor as the legendary RS 2.7 Carrera. Sold
post auction at £85k all in against an
£80k–£100k ($120k–$150k) estimate.
#201-1985 MERCEDES-BENZ 280SE
sedan. S/N WDB1260211A175447. Eng. #
1092612022019. White/gray velour. Odo:
5,734 km. Like new. Even the seat velour,
which doesn’t last well on these, is unworn.
126
Sports Car Market
Page 126
Fresh Meat
by Chad Tyson
Online sales of contemporary cars
2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS coupe
Still smells new inside. Original spare wheel
and tire still in wrapping. Full service history
with every invoice. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$23,905. Offered at no reserve, and fetched
about five times what a typical W126 sedan
would attract. No precedents, as in... find another.
#204-1986 MERCEDES-BENZ 560SEC
Date sold: 10/16/2015
eBay auction ID: 272008338153
Seller’s eBay ID: emanrace
Sale type: Used car with 60 miles
VIN: WP0AF2A94GS187186
Details: Lava Orange over black leather; 4.0-L flat
six rated at 500 hp and 338 lb-ft, 7-sp PDK, RWD
Sale result: $329,000, Buy It Now, sf 75
MSRP: $201,645 (as equipped)
Other current offering: The Auto Gallery Porsche
in Woodland Hills, CA, offering a 23-mile, Lava
Orange-over-black GT3 RS for $325,999.
2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith coupe
coupe. S/N WDB1260541A283204. Eng. #
11796812017564. Silver/black leather. Odo:
38,643 km. Low mileage, and very good overall.
Has had some paint down the sides. What
little wood there is is excellent, and from the
feel of the leather you wouldn’t believe the
ange leather. RHD. Odo: 20,278 miles. G50
wide-bodied cab, good, original and rot-free.
Front end repainted with a few dust marks,
front lid doesn’t quite line up. Driver’s seat
outer bolster is only part of interior that shows
real wear. New top. Cond: 3+. SOLD AT
$102,777. Offered at no reserve and I guess
this is fair—more than a decent 3.2 Carrera
coupe but a bit less than a nice small-bumper
2.4. Blame the rather unfortunate interior
color, a throwback to the ’80s.
mileage. Big BBS wheels appear to be de rigueur
for these large pimpmobiles. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $40,330. Offered at no reserve.
Finally, an expensive one at money to rival a
top M6/M635 CSi. We’ve been waiting for this
for years, but the model richly deserves it. In a
darker color or gray metallic, it might have
done even more.
Date sold: 11/30/2015
eBay auction ID: 252183005411
Seller’s eBay ID: perillopre-ownedoutlet
Sale type: Used car with 1,028 miles
VIN: SCA665C50EUX84345
Details: Midnight Sapphire over Seashell leather;
6.6-L twin-turbocharged V12 rated at 624 hp and
590 lb-ft, 8-sp auto, RWD
Sale result: $289,880, 4 bids, sf 10
MSRP: $284,900 (base)
Other current offering: Fields Motorcars Orlando
of Longwood, FL, asking $295,995 for an English
White/Midnight Sapphire over Seashell leather 2014
Wraith.
2014 Aston Martin DB9 Volante
#205-1986 PORSCHE 911 Supersport
coupe. S/N WP0ZZZ91ZGS103518. White/
red leather. Odo: 745 km. Incredibly low-mileage
and like-new M491 Supersport, including
original Dunlop D40s. Supplied new in Germany
and highly optioned, including Sports
seat for passenger and comfort seat for driver.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $248,378. Fetched
roughly three times the price of a mint 3.2
Carrera. We keep banging on about how unus-
#259-1997 PORSCHE 911 Targa. S/N
WP0ZZZ99ZVS381144. Blue/gray leather.
RHD. Odo: 47,448 miles. Tidy and unscuffed,
leather only lightly worn, no chips at glass
edges. Lowish mileage for age. Good service
history plus all old MoTs to confirm mileage.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $72,800. Pretty much the
going rate for a tidy 993 Targa. Five or six
Silverstone Oxfordshire, U.K.
years ago, these were $30k because nobody
wanted them due to worries over the slidingroof
mechanism. But it’s a Porsche, and history
has proven the doubters wrong. Rare to
find a manual one, although transmission
choice doesn’t appear to affect value.
#249-2010 PORSCHE 911 GT2 RS
coupe. S/N WP0ZZZ99ZBS776350. Red &
black/red & black suede. RHD. Odo: 2,140
miles. One of 500 made, but one of only 16
U.K.-spec and -supplied cars. With black-andred
Club Sport package, and still like a new
Date sold: 10/09/2015
eBay auction ID: 252111402238
Seller’s eBay ID: muskatd
Sale type: Used car with 25,000 miles
VIN: SCFFDABMXEGB15213
Details: Mako Blue over Cream Truffle leather; 6.0L
V12 rated at 510 hp and 457 lb-ft, 6-sp auto, RWD
Sale result: $139,900, 1 bid, sf 3532
MSRP: $198,700 (base)
Other current offering: Cleveland Motorsports in
North Olmstead, OH, offering a Stratus White over
Sandstorm leather, with 2,489 miles, for $159,991. ♦
128
able ultra-low-mileage cars are—but if there’s
one you could probably happily fire up after a
fluid change and a quick turn on a spanner, it’s
a 911. Actually driving it would mean new
rubber (and new rubber hoses and seals) all
around, of course. It’s just had all that at Autofarm,
but that still doesn’t mean it won’t lose
value as soon as you put some miles on it, so
best as a museum piece.
#208-1987 PORSCHE 911 Supersport
cabriolet. S/N WP0ZZZ91ZHS150329. Eng.
# 63H00804. Bronze/brown cloth/tan & or-
Sports Car Market
Page 127
one. Catalog claims ECU data shows it’s never
been used hard or over-revved and therefore
has probably never seen a race track. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $479,627. Sold mid-estimate and
very quantifiable, as it’s a new car with known
numbers made. So I’ve included it to show
where modern supercar Porsches are this
month.
#218-2011 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS 4.0
coupe. S/N WP0ZZZ99ZBS785350. White/
black leather & suede. Odo: 4,000 miles.
Number 387 of 600. Clean, tidy, unscuffed
and low mileage, with a few tiny stone marks
in the front. Full service history: ECU says it’s
never been thrashed or tracked, according to
Silverstone Oxfordshire, U.K.
#226-1962 FERRARI 250 GTE Series II
2+2 coupe. S/N 3823GT. Eng. # 3823. Silver
blue/beige leather. Odo: 80,580 km. 1962
Paris Motor Show car, in excellent restored
order with nice paint in original color, good
rechrome, new leather, newish exhausts. Door
fit is a little out on the right. Ferrari Classiche
certified. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $505,321.
Strong money for a 250 GTE, but that stops
them being chopped into SWBs or GTOs. And
it was in line with what Silverstone was expecting,
so the seller must have been pretty
sure of his ground. Previously sold by Artcurial
in Paris in October of 2013 for $287k
pre-restoration, when it was red and our reporter
described the interior as having “a
lovely patina” (SCM# 231478).
#213-1964 FERRARI 330 GT Series I
catalog. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $428,238. Originally
supplied to Sweden. One owner and full
history sounds like a retailer’s dream, and
here it was bought mid-estimate for $170k
less, the catalog claims, than right-handed
versions fetch. Bear in mind new retail was
about $198k. Appropriate “X40 LTR” number
plate is worth a bit, too.
ITALIAN
#214-1959 LANCIA AURELIA B20GT
Series IV coupe. S/N B203411. Eng. #
B20N4241. Pale blue/oatmeal cloth. RHD.
Odo: 67,442 km. Restored, door fit perfect,
rechromed, one small hole in replated rear
bumper, a couple of small dings in hubcaps.
New cloth to seats, runs later suspension and
2+2 coupe. S/N 6129GT. Eng. # 6129. Blue/
gray leather. RHD. Odo: 54,890 miles. Sharp
older paint, repainted from red, good shutlines,
okay chrome with a few tiny scratches, pickled
door handles, newish leather, rear belts.
Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $299,767. Formerly in
Al-Fayed ownership, having been bought as
part of the Modena Engineering Collection.
Accepted high bid here was just under the
lower estimate. Lot 237, a condition #3 car in
a very bright Resale Red but estimated at
much the same money, didn’t sell.
#235-1970 FERRARI 365 GT 2+2 coupe.
S/N 13535. Metallic blue/tan leather. Odo:
86,868 miles. Straight and shiny, repainted
later, larger 2.5-L V6. Dutch title. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $145,601. On the money for a decent
B20GT—yes, that’s what they fetch in
Europe these days. What you lose in originality
you gain in drivability, as these are a bit
ponderous as 2-liters, so value is not too badly
affected.
February 2016
129
Bonhams Beaulieu, U.K.
Bonhams — The Beaulieu Sale
The big noise this time around was for the barn-find 1929 Bentley 4½ Litre that
still wore its original saloon body and was mechanically sound
Company
Bonhams
Date
September 5, 2015
Location
Beaulieu, U.K.
Auctioneers
Malcolm Barber, Rob
Hubbard
Automotive lots sold/offered
98/116
Sales rate
84%
Sales total
$5,360,672
High sale
1929 Bentley 4½ Litre saloon,
sold at $1,059,595
Buyer’s premium
Incredible time warp put away in 1985 — 1929 Bentley 4½ Litre sedan, sold at $1,059,595
Report and photos by Paul Hardiman
Market opinions in italics
A
lthough Bonhams has gradually
realigned its annual Beaulieu date
away from a “restoration auction,”
taking its cue in the old days from
the world-famous International Autojumble
next door, the big noise this time around was
for the “barn find” 1929 Bentley 4½ Litre.
Strictly speaking, it didn’t need restoring and
interior is completely original in wonderful green leather. For a car that’s over 80
years old, it’s truly astounding.”
Though over the years the fare has become shinier, there were restoration projects,
Beaulieu, U.K.
will be all the better for some sympathetic titivation
instead, but it was completely original and
was recently unearthed from 30 years of storage,
having been in the vendor’s family ownership for 80
years. What made this so special was that it still wore
its original saloon body and was mechanically sound. It
sold for well over average 4½ money at $1m — a record
price for a saloon-bodied 4½, and the highest price ever
achieved for a restoration project at Beaulieu. The new
owner thankfully plans not to restore it but just get it
working while he decides what to do with it.
“The vendor only recently found the car gathering
dust in his grandfather’s garage, and expected it to be
valued at a fraction of the amount we’ve achieved,”
said Senior Specialist Rob Hubbard, who dropped the
hammer on the car for a personal record. “It was an
incredible discovery; the chassis, engine, axle, gearbox,
steering box numbers are all present and correct, the
132
of course: a tired Riley Imp, plus the usual smattering of decrepit Derby Bentley,
Lagonda and Rolls-Royce saloons all beckoning to men with empty sheds and good
toolkits. Particularly rare was a 1950 Bristol 402 drophead coupe restoration
project sold to a British bidder for double estimate at $159k. A stripped-tometal
1969 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage whose restoration had stalled sold for
$250k, which appears to be on the money for a DB6 project these days.
Some lots had their estimates revised down immediately before the sale — a
realization that the market has slipped back a little — but several still got good prices.
The huge 1927 Voisin C12 tourer with unique
original body by Duvivier sold for $335k, and a
nicely restored 1964 Jaguar E-type coupe sold
above estimate but fair at $173k.
Moving with the times, two hot hatches of
Sales Totals
$6m
$5m
the ’80s were lined up next to one another: a
Golf GTi and its deadly rival, the Peugeot 205
GTI. The Golf sold for $25k, 40% more than
the Peugeot. But for sheer weirdness, nothing
could eclipse the Hustler 6 Space Shuttle. The
Mini-based utility vehicle was what designer
William Towns did after he left Aston Martin,
and it looked like a shower cubicle on wheels.
As ever, there’s truly something for everyone at
Beaulieu. ♦
$4m
$3m
$2m
$1m
0
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
15% on first $76,131, 12%
thereafter, included in sold
prices ($1 = £0.66)
Sports Car Market
Page 132
Bonhams Beaulieu, U.K.
ENGLISH
#131-1909 BELSIZE 14/16 HP Roi des
Belges tourer. S/N N/A. Eng. # G78. Cream/
red leather. RHD. Odo: 4,990 miles. Believed
one of 12 surviving, and the oldest known
4-cylinder Belsize, made in Manchester. No
chassis number, identified on engine number.
Good older paint, beautifully patinated
cracked leather is savable. New carpet in rear.
Excellent and extensive brass with Bleriot
#125-1920 VAUXHALL 30-98 E-type
tourer. S/N E267. Eng. # E256. Maroon/black
leathercloth/black leather. RHD. Odo: 2,495
miles. Australian-bodied 30-98 with steel skin
rather than aluminum. Hood is aluminum,
though. Gorgeous soft plating to radiator shell,
lights and windscreen frame. Very nice paint.
Lightly polished aluminum dash with excellent
instruments. Well-creased buttoned
leather. Auster screen and original mascot. Just
Green & black/black leather. RHD. Odo: 612
miles. Fair older paint is a bit dust-infested,
imposing timber body cracked in places, headlights
dinged and dulled. Creased but service-
headlamps, Dietz scuttle lamps, accumulator
still on running board. Stewart speedo. Cond:
3+. SOLD AT $55,402. Not sold at Bonhams’
Oxford sale, but estimate was revised significantly
downward the day before the sale from
£45k–£55k to £38k–£45k ($67k–$82k to $57k–
$67k), and that encouraged buyers, though it
was still let go a few thousands under that.
For a little-known non-Veteran, I’d call that a
fair deal.
#124-1919 SUNBEAM 16 HP tourer. S/N
503019. Brown/brown/beige leathercloth.
RHD. Odo: 219 miles. Earliest known postWWI
Sunbeam, restored in ’50s and again in
’70s. Nice older paint even though it’s slightly
orange-peeled, brass well worn in, well-polished
and slightly stained CAV light set. Auster
screen. Cond: 3. SOLD AT $62,161. Last
offered at Bonhams’ Oxford sale in December
right! Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $258,085. These
look like a great value next to a Bentley 4½
Litre. They’re rather less sophisticated, being
sidevalves, but they’re a bit lighter on their
feet. OE overhead-valve version would command
more. Good price for the buyer, following
the current trend of being let go some ways
under the £180k ($270k) lower estimate—
probably thanks to the market slowing a little
even as the catalog was being compiled.
#127-1922 ROLLS-ROYCE 40/50 HP
Silver Ghost Salamanca town car. S/N
111BG. Black/black leather & gray velour.
RHD. Odo: 38,129 miles. Tired-looking
Springfield Rolls, like an old film prop, which
is what it is, as it appeared in the 2013 movie
“The Great Gatsby.” Older paint now with a
few cracks, and nice soft nickel plating looks
polished up a bit since last time I saw it. Front
able leather, motor dusty but dry and with
original magneto. Cond: 3-. SOLD AT
$96,078. Originally the property of the Duke
of York before he became King George VI, and
for a long time displayed in the royal car collection
in the Sandringham Museum. Not a lot
of money for a royal artifact, but a) it needs a
lot of room, and b) unless you have a country
estate for shooting, there’s not a lot you can do
with it.
#171-1929 BENTLEY 4½ LITRE
sedan. S/N PB3527. Eng. # PB3526.
Black/brown leather. RHD. Odo:
89,423 miles. Incredible time-warp put away
in 1985, in this family ownership since 1935.
Dusty and musty, but doors still shut beautifully,
leather is eminently savable, plenty of
grease around kingpins and, it transpired later,
motor freed up okay. Bentley Drivers Club
TOP 10
No. 10
2013, where it sold for $60,294, which was
well under the $75k–$90k pre-sale estimate
range, and I wrote, “Well bought and good
value for a usable, nicely worn-in Vintage
conveyance for five” (SCM# 231880). The
market for Vintage cars is likely shrinking,
and this time the estimate was substantially
lower at £35k–£45k ($54k–$69k). It’s just
about held its price, but of course the owner
has lost out by a few thousand in commission
fees.
134
leather shiny and lightly creased, gray cord in
rear rather grubby. Rexine top okay. Nice purple-tinged
Bausch & Lomb lights. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $130,184. Previously sold at Bonhams’
December 2014 Oxford sale for
$126,822 with 38,117 miles (SCM# 256639).
Rather more was being asked here, but in the
current climate, trying to flip cars quickly is a
bit silly, and it was let go £15k ($22k) under
the £100k ($150k) lower estimate.
#110-1929 ARMSTRONG-SIDDELEY
30 HP Mk II shooting brake. S/N 12567.
and Caravan Club badges, as it spent much of
its life towing. You just don’t find them like
this. Cond: 3-. SOLD AT $1,059,595. And a
fairly incredible price, about 50% over the
price of a decent 4½. I understand that it’s
gone to “the right sort of chap” who intends
to sensitively preserve it and use it until he
decides what to do with it. At least it won’t
become yet another Le Mans rep. Expensive,
but full marks.
#169-1930 ROLLS-ROYCE 40/50 HP
PHANTOM II Silver Ghost rolling chassis.
S/N 141XJ. RHD. Originally a Carlton-bodied
saloon, now a rolling chassis ripe for restoration
and/or interpretation, wearing the beginnings
of a tourer frame and body. Running
gear-wise, all there but all needs pulling apart,
cleaning up and rebuilding. Motor likely
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Page 134
hasn’t run since the ’60s. Radiator shell in fair
shape. As I have observed previously, R-R
shells, along with cockroaches and Lemmy,
are likely the only things that will survive a
Travel saloon. S/N Z10271. Eng. # Z2043.
Gray & black/green leather. RHD. “Lost Lagonda,”
rusty and moth-eaten, but still complete
and original. Leather might be savable, dash
finish is cracked, but all the instruments are
there, and at least the radiator shell and headlights
look straight. Engine block has a fragilelooking
older repair. Cond: 4-. SOLD AT
$45,526. After 51 years in storage, offered at
no reserve here, which always gees up the
bidding. In this case it sold almost 50% over
top estimate.
#108-1934 MORGAN SPORTS roadster.
nuclear holocaust. Cond: 4. SOLD AT
$35,020. This sale coincides with the Autojumble,
where you can nip into the next field and
find most of the bits you need to complete any
project or find bits to build a whole car. The
auction used to be awash with fare such as
this, but they’ve gone upmarket in recent
years. Offered at no reserve and sold twice
over lower estimate. As the catalog suggests, it
would go well with a lightweight tourer body,
but I’d love to see it taken one stage further:
Shorten the chassis and make it into a minimalist
speedster—then it would really fly.
#123-1931 MG F-TYPE Magna tourer.
S/N F0353. Eng. # 677AF. Two-tone blue/
beige vinyl. Odo: 3,869 miles. Kept in good
order rather than excessively restored. Older
paint with a few chips, tired-looking interior
with weird magnolia vinyl that you probably
S/N N119. Eng. # MX192. Red & black/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 21,249 miles. Matchless
sidevalve version. Restored 1990s, now uses
Morris Minor hydraulic front brakes and 12volt
electrics. Not used for 10 years. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $40,273. In this ownership 55
years... It must have been heart-wrenching to
let it go after so long. Sold at the high end of
the estimate range, and deservedly so, although
it still looks like an excellent value
compared with an OHV car, which would cost
much more.
#107-1935 RILEY 9-HP Imp roadster.
S/N 6027359. Eng. # 55514. Red/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 71,551 miles. One of two
with MPH-style rear bodywork. Restoration
project, but pretty much complete. Most paint
stripped off, one headlight shell dinged.
Leather is still there but lightly distressed.
wouldn’t use now even if you could find it.
Rear seat belts fitted. Now runs an under-floor
alternator. Cond: 3-. SOLD AT $33,269. But
being the four-seater, it was cheap! Sold for
what the owner was realistically looking for.
#122-1933 LAGONDA 3-LITER Silent
Motor is a period-correct replacement. Cond:
4+. SOLD AT $75,294. In this family ownership
since 1964 and has pre-war competition
(trials) history. Imp is one of the most attractive
Nine derivatives and even though it’s a
real one, sold for around half the price of Lot
130, the Riley 15/6/MPH/Sprite special later
in the sale.
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Bonhams Beaulieu, U.K.
#158-1935 ROLLS-ROYCE 20/25-HP
all-weather tourer. S/N GHF10. Green &
black/ black cloth/green leather. RHD. Odo:
4,474 miles. Slightly severe body style by
Corsica of Cricklewood fitted in ’60s. Was
originally a saloon. But it’s straight and shiny,
with good paint and plating, and leather is
only lightly worn, suggesting little use since it
#156-1959 MGA 1600 roadster. S/N
GHN71705. Red/black leather. RHD. Odo:
59,585 miles. Good door fit and shiny paint,
but lots of extra clutter in the dash—lighter
socket, clock and badges, plus chunky periodlooking
Motorola. Repop seats with red pip-
Compared with a Frazer Nash bitsa, for example,
I’d say that looks a cracking deal.
#111-1950 BRISTOL 402 drophead
was rebodied. Cond: 3. SOLD AT $49,029.
Fair money for a 20- or 25-hp. At the cheap
end of the scale for a decent car, and possibly
would have fetched more if it had been a more
friendly-looking coupe. Let go significantly
under the original £35k ($52k) reserve, and so
I think the buyer’s got a bit of a deal here.
#130-1936 RILEY SPORTS Sprite rep-
lica roadster. S/N 46A2596. Blue/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 12,460 miles. Riley Nines,
12s and 15/6s came in all shapes and sizes, so
the lesser ones are quite easy to chop into the
more desirable Sprite and MPH versions. This
is a decently done 15/6 MPH special, based on
an Adelphi 15/6 saloon chassis with lovely
paint and a fair radiator shell, although it lacks
the waterfall grille of later Sprites. Leather is
just starting to go a little windy. Preselector
shift on column. Cond: 3. SOLD AT
$121,658. Sold a smidge under lower estimate,
this very appealing little mongrel sold
for around half the price of a real Sprite.
coupe. S/N 402718. Silver/beige leather.
RHD. Odo: 26,439 miles. Restoration project
with everything needed, and doors have
dropped on their hinges. Leather very distressed,
instruments still good. More-powerful
100A engine factory-fitted in ’50s. In this
ownership 46 years and laid up since 1971.
ing. Negative-earth electrics and unleadedtolerant
cylinder head. Cond: 3. SOLD AT
$25,390. Offered at no reserve and cheap for
any MGA that’s not a wreck. You could remove
the superfluous junk and still have a decent
driver-quality car, so it looks like a good deal.
#147-1962 TRIUMPH TR4 convertible.
S/N CT86530. Red/black hard top/black vinyl.
RHD. Odo: 69,074 miles. Road rally car, well
kept up, shiny new Minilites, small Moto-Lita
wheel, Retrotrip, part of roll cage unbolted
and on floor behind it. No mention of engine
spec or photographs, so I’ll assume it’s basically
standard. Said to have good oil pressure.
Cond: 4. SOLD AT $159,175. Sold twice over
the high estimate, but it’s an elegant and very
rare model. From the same estate as Lot 101,
the tatty Triumph TR5 we profiled in SCM December
(p. 66), and I’ll bet the Triumph probably
wouldn’t have been accepted had it not
been in a package with this one.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $28,892. Sold mid-estimate
but for less than a nicely restored stock
road car, from which it’s not far off and could
easily resemble with little expense or effort.
I’d leave it as-is, smugly enjoying a good deal,
as this is about the cheapest way into a nice
separate-chassis TR. Also a very good basis
for an Equipe GTS racer. Well bought.
#188-1963 TROJAN 200 microcar. S/N
11247. Eng. # 31775. Blue/tartan cloth. RHD.
Odo: 41,128 miles. Trojan in the U.K. took
over the rights to the Heinkel Kabine in 1961,
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Bonhams Beaulieu, U.K.
so this is effectively a British-built German
car; being right-hand drive, the steering
doesn’t swing clear as you open the door. Onefamily
owned from new, good order, recently
renovated rather than totally restored. New
paint and interior trim and a wood-rim wheel.
Front badge a bit pitted before rechrome.
Cond: 2. SOLD AT $16,621. Not sold at Bonhams’
last Oxford sale on June 20, but here
re-offered at a reduced estimate of £15k–£18k
($22k–$27k), down from the £18k–£20k
($27k–$30k) asked at Oxford. Let go well under
that, but I think it was more a case of a
high estimate than a low bid, and it looks a
fair deal both ways.
#153-1964 JAGUAR XKE Series I 3.8
coupe. S/N 890183. Eng. # RA58029. Red/red
leather. Odo: 33,186 miles. In dry storage
1976–2009, then restored. Still super-clean,
new leather. Spotweld dimples filled in tail
pan, but seams are still there. Still has its nice
original “WK” Coventry reg number as well.
Upgrades include 5-speed transmission, Zeus
but you’d be pushed to find a better donor car
or ex-racer for this. As a competition car, bitsa
or reshell status doesn’t hurt it too much.
#145-1969 ASTON MARTIN DB6 Van-
tage coupe. S/N DB63585R. Red & aluminium/
black leather. RHD. Odo: 69,653 miles.
Restoration project with most paint stripped
off. Solid structure with jacking points okay,
as that’s as far as the restoration got. All there,
original leather creased but savable. Cond: 4+.
SOLD AT $249,558. Sold for what a nice restored
car goes for in pounds. With all the
metalwork done, should be completable within
its market value, so fairly bought and sold.
#150-1973 HUSTLER 6 SPACE SHUT-
front brakes and dynalternator (an alternator
that looks like the original dynamo). Original
4-speed included in the sale. Cond: 2+. SOLD
AT $172,818. Personal export to Houston
when new, hence U.K. registration first. Sold
at high end but right for a decently restored
and sensitively upgraded coupe.
#178-1966 FORD LOTUS CORTINA
rally car. S/N BA74FP59901. Eng. # LP6823LBA.
Red/black velour. RHD. Odo: 4,836
miles. Lotus Cortina rally car built out of a
stock 2-door saloon, but all shell details appear
correct for Lotus—over-diff hump and
unique radius arms. Fitted with all the right
TLE utility. S/N XAV11066897A. White/gray
velour. RHD. Odo: 96,541 miles. After William
Towns followed up his magnificent Camaro-inspired
Aston Martin DBS with the
wedge-shaped Lagonda, he did this. Looking
like a shower cubicle on wheels, it’s Mini/
Metro based, and in good order, restored with
more modern lights and detailing, plus a strip
almost new. Sold twice over the top estimate,
and the reason this horrible old shed attracted
this much money is that it was formerly owned
by the late film director and actor (Lord) Richard
Attenborough, who was at the time riding
on the success of the 1982 film “Gandhi.” A
talking point not for its previous ownership
but for how many faults it manages to contain
within one sad package. Oh well, the reg number
(RA III) was worth a bit.
FRENCH
#135-1909 LION-PEUGEOT racing voi-
turette. S/N 2711. Dark blue. MHD. Re-creation
of a car that no longer exists, the 1909
Brooklands car, based on a chassis discovered
in France and just marvelous. Only six years
old but looks 90. Crazy proportions down to
horsepower regs that promoted a small bore
but a massively long stroke, and four-valve
head leads to twin exhaust. Drive chains in
speedo from an Austin 1100 in a custom aluminum
dash. No mention or photograph of
powertrain, but let’s hope it’s a 1275 at least.
Cond: 2-. SOLD AT $14,008. This is actually
registered as a Hustler, being built as one
rather than supplied as a kit. I’m hoping the
“OFK” number plate isn’t a joke. Offered at
no reserve and sold within estimate. But you
could have a classic Range Rover for this...
#115-1981 ROLLS-ROYCE COR-
bits and still running a back seat, as required
by some events. In-date seats and belts, Brantz
tripmeter. Strangely, wears stickers from Top
Hat racing series. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT
$45,526. It’s unlikely to win any historic
stages (though class honors aren’t out of the
question) but against the sea of ubiquitous
Mk2 Escorts, the crowds like to see the oldtimers.
Sold at the top end of estimate range,
140
NICHE 2-dr sedan. S/N CRH0050654.
Green/gray velour. RHD. Odo: 177,221 miles.
Fairly horrible. Scraped down the sides, all
wheelarches are bubbly with rust. Seat velour
is worn through, and a note advises the motor
has no oil. So it manages to combine just
about every nasty known to the Shadow derivatives
in one car. Remarkable. “Needs recommissioning,”
says the catalog. Cond: 4. SOLD
AT $52,531. Was originally blue with beige
Everflex top and beige leather, refinished when
good order, but the rest of it is so intentionally
patinated, the leathercloth seat is already coming
apart. Fabulous. Cond: 3. SOLD AT
$70,041. Well known in VSCC circles since its
completion in 2002, race winner and has
toured France. Last scrutineering sticker
2012. Top bid just on top estimate, but for
what’s gone into it, it looks cheap. Admittedly
limited appeal, though.
#139-1927 VOISIN C12 tourer. S/N
30032. Blue & gray/gray leather. RHD. Odo:
3,760 miles. Straight, with older (2004) paint.
Really lovely nickel plating to radiator shell
and lights, though their aluminum rims are
lightly pitted. Refinished timber, leather well
cracked and worn. Modern temperature gauge
in footwell. Sleeve-valve engine. Nivex fuel
gauge reads to 29 gallons! Cond: 3+. SOLD
AT $334,825. According to the catalog, 60
C12s were built, and three survive, of which
this is the only one with a body. In the U.K.
Sports Car Market
Dragone Westport, CT
Dragone — The Fall Auction
A 1947 Lancia Aprilia prototype built for the 1946 Paris Motor Show and
driven there by Battista Farina himself sold for $396k
Company
Dragone Auctions
Date
October 17, 2015
Location
Westport, CT
Auctioneer
John Kruse
Automotive lots sold/offered
29/57
Sales rate
51%
Sales total
$2,802,725
High sale
1947 Lancia Aprilia prototype
convertible, sold at $396,000
Buyer’s premium
1947 Lancia Aprilia prototype convertible, sold at $396,000
Report and photos by Adam Blumenthal
Market opinions in italics
I
f you’d driven a mile or so out of downtown
Westport up historic Boston Post
Road, you’d have noticed something was
going on. Abutting the brick-and-mortar
Dragone showroom was a large tent, and
off to the side was a smaller one. Parking
spaces were filling up, scattered groups
of people were milling about, and at the
entrance, Dragone banners luffed in the early fall breeze.
No convention center, TV trucks or vast acreage of lawn
space here — this was a more intimate affair — but the
range and quality of vintage machinery crammed inside
the tents was truly international.
American cars made up 60% of the lots. A gorgeous
Westport, CT
1938 Cadillac V16 convertible coupe was an AACA National First Prize
and CCCA award winner, and it sold at $305k. A 1930 Packard 740 7-passenger
tourer, in derelict shape but savable, went for a bargain at $39k.
Going back in time to the Brass Era, a 1912 EMF demi-tonneau with an
older restoration was a no-sale at $31k, while a 1915 Ford Model T tourer
found a new home at $12k.
In the German camp, an original 1975 Porsche 911 Carrera was well bought at
$132k. A restored 1965 Porsche 356 SC, finished in attractive Slate Gray with red leather
and an engine upgrade, sold at $99k.
The Italian contingent included a 1988 Ferrari Testarossa with less than 15k miles
on the odo. The red-hot Ferrari market has boosted prices for quality Testarossas, and
this one, in excellent condition, sold at a market-correct $121k. More interesting was a
pair of mid-20th-century Fiats. The 1946 Stanguellini 1100 Sport Nazionale started life
as a normally aspirated 1100 but had its engine
tuned and chassis modified for racing. A love-itor-hate-it
design, it sold for $55k. The diminutive
and attractive 1951 Stanga Barchetta with Motto
bodywork and Abarth-tuned engine no-saled at
$80k.
High-sale honors went to a spectacular 1947
Sales Totals
$5m
Lancia Aprilia prototype. The car was built especially
for the 1946 Paris Motor Show, and Battista
Farina reportedly drove the car there himself.
It sold at $396k, a reasonable purchase for what
may very well have been the finest Aprilia on the
planet.
The quality and variety of the consignments
1938 Cadillac Series 90 V16 convertible, sold at $291,500
144
reminded me of an old saying: “Too much is
never enough.” ♦
$4m
$3m
$2m
$1m
0
Sports Car Market
2015
2014
10%, included in sold prices
Page 144
Dragone Westport, CT
ENGLISH
#136-1961 JAGUAR XK 150 SE coupe.
S/N 5847071. White/red leather. Odo: 12,654
miles. A reported barn find in Indiana with a
body-off restoration done in 2009. Said to be
one of 475 150 SE 3.8 cars imported into the
U.S. A few bubbles in very nice paint, crack at
leading edge of hood. Good brightwork. All
rubber, glass excellent. Newer Firestone
whitewalls. Interior looks new. Tinted Plexiglas
visors. JDHTC certificate reveals car was
originally BRG with a tan interior. Box in
footwell has supplies, spare parts, parts cata-
dealer concerns that the new TR4 would not
sell well to traditional customers. The “TCF”
designation in the TR3B’s chassis number indicated
it came with the larger 2.1-liter motor,
while the “TSF” cars had the 2-liter unit.
TR3Bs have come down the value ladder a bit
in the last few years. This example sold without
reserve at a market-correct price.
#104-1996 BENTLEY TURBO R sedan.
S/N SCBZR14C9TCX58125. Garnet Black/
black & burgundy. Odo: 49,081 miles. Catalog
claimed that this was number seven of only 12
Special Editions built. Looks all-original and
in excellent condition. Nice paint, very good
glass, chrome. Alloy rims show blemishes,
have Bentley logo against red background.
“The Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation
chrome partition has clear glass. Clock, two
glove boxes in rear. New York Athletic Club,
Westchester Biltmore Country Club badges on
dull grille. Cond: 2+. NOT SOLD AT
$725,000. Custom 4-door bodied by
Fleetwood. One of the star lots of the sale. I
was expecting it to blow my socks off, but the
Fleetwood design left me underwhelmed.
Handsome, yes, just not jaw-dropping. Chalk
it up to lofty expectations. Maybe shoppers felt
the same way, because the high bid was miles
away from the $1.2m low estimate.
#145-1965 PORSCHE 356SC coupe. S/N
221780. Eng. # 821722. Slate Gray/red
leather. Odo: 24,480 miles. Recent restoration.
Nice paint has orange peel on roof, scuffing on
trunk lid. A couple of pock marks. Rear glass
blotchy. Immaculate inside. Black leatherette
seats replaced with new red leather. Blaupunkt
AM/FM radio. Three-spoke wood wheel. Invoice
details recent mechanical service (August
of this year) costing over $12k. Engine’s
log. 2014 Jaguar Club of Southern New England
Concours d’Elegance Best in Show.
Cond: 2-. NOT SOLD AT $60,000. This came
with a maintenance chart chronicling its restoration
from BRG to its current color scheme. I
liked its looks, though it was a little too shiny
for my tastes. Not everyone would agree with
my assessment, but you had to love its “JAGUAAH”
Connecticut license plate. You can
easily find solid examples of 150s now selling
well north of $100k, which makes the high bid
here all the more puzzling. Clearly, the right
buyer wasn’t in the room.
#106-1963 TRIUMPH TR3B roadster.
S/N TCF2701L. Black/black canvas/red
leather. Odo: 53,557 miles. Lots of speckles,
some microscratches in wavy paint. Front
bumper heavily marked up. Lenses good.
Clear wind wings. Looks like adhesive material
was applied to keep windshield-surround
in place. Chrome mudguards blemished. Rearview
mirrors atop fenders. Black vinyl tonneau
fits well and is in good shape. Chrome
wires. Neat inside with newer seats that have
— Associate 2001–2002” sticker. Elegant interior
looks new. Seats show light creasing. Excellent
burled walnut trim. Hood latch broken.
Stock engine bay clean. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$28,600. How this limited-production Special
Edition example differed from a regular Turbo
R was not clear, but $30k for close-to-new
Bentley opulence and performance? I’d say
very well bought, assuming the mechanicals
are A-okay.
GERMAN
#146-1924 MERCEDES 24/100/140 Su-
percharged phaeton. S/N 19939. Eng. #
11838. Black & white/tan canvas/red leather.
Odo: 3,057 miles. Restored in early ’70s, then
discovered after being in storage for four decades.
Very good finish, flaking on cowl, crack
on front passenger’s door. Driver’s side
searchlight. Dual foglights on cowl. Excellent
top with red piping, oval glass window clear.
Luggage on rear rack covered in matching tan
canvas. Dual sidemounts. No taillights. Buckets
in back with center armrest. Polished
been upgraded to 1,700 cc. Porsche Certificate
of Authenticity. Oddly, missing stock front
bumper guards, which are neither rare nor
expensive to source. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT
$99,000. A nearly straight 356 with a modestly
hotted-up motor. If you were in the market for
a well-prepped SC in an interesting color combination,
then this was your ticket to Porsche
ownership bliss. No harm done here to either
party at this price.
#111-1967 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
convertible. S/N 157528547. Yukon Yellow/
black vinyl/black vinyl. Odo: 11,059 miles.
Looks to be a mostly original car. Tired paint
has imperfections throughout. Driver-quality
chrome, glass. Dual outside mirrors. EMPIstyle
aftermarket rims. Rear bumper heavily
scuffed. Factory AM radio, clock. Door linings
have pouches for storing things. Passenger’s
white piping, show minimal wear. All instruments,
gauges, controls there against red dash.
Rockers show chips. Driver engine bay. Cond:
3+. SOLD AT $20,900. The TR3B was a
short-production run that was offered concurrently
with the TR4. It was in response to
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Dragone Westport, CT
visor lining baggy. Stock engine bay dirty.
Cond: 3. SOLD AT $8,250. 1967 saw the debut
of the larger 1.5-liter motor and upgrade
to the 12-volt electrical system. Not the finest
Beetle by any stretch, but looked sound
enough. If you were looking for a used example
ready to go for not a lot of cash, this
was your ticket. There’s room for the new
owner to do some work and flip it for a potential
profit or drive as-is and enjoy, assuming
the mechanicals check out. Well bought at no
reserve.
#126-1971 MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL
convertible. S/N 11304410019838. Black/
black hard top/red leather. Odo: 81,181 miles.
Restoration by Paul Russell mellowing a bit.
Paint still shines. Scratch, orange peel on front
left fender, chipping at driver’s door. Rear left
bumper spotty. Very good glass. Black hard
top with car. Factory alloys unscuffed. Interior
hardly worn in. Comfy seats. Some gauges are
cloudy. Furstil floor mats. Kenwood eXcelon
radio. Factory a/c. Spare in used trunk. Engine
bay not as presentable as rest of car, but all
there. Owner’s manual, Kenwood instruction
manual, registration docs. Cond: 3+. SOLD
AT $90,750. Last year of the 280SL. These
have been rising dramatically the past five
years, and even so-so examples are riding the
wave. An arguably strong result in this condition,
but the way the market’s trending, I think
there’s still room to bring this up a notch and
come out ahead. Well bought and sold.
#128-1975 PORSCHE 911 Carrera
coupe. S/N 9115400113. Eng. # 6550731.
Silver/black leather. Odo: 46,158 miles. Very
nice, even paint. Rubber-edged whale tail unscuffed.
Black Carrera side decals unblemished.
Alloys free of curb rash. Michelin
radials. Driver’s outside mirror only. Seats
show use of an occasional driver. Blaupunkt
radio. Visors baggy. Headliner has a few tears.
Clean black carpets with red Carrera lettering.
Sunroof. Clean trunk. Engine bay reflects low
miles. No signs of leaks or drips. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $132,000. It wasn’t so long ago
that these were routinely given passing
glances by ardent Porsche collectors. Now
they’re main attractions and fetching strong
money. A surprising no-reserve sale $40k
short of the low estimate. Today’s assessment:
“Well bought.” A couple of years ago: “What
were you thinking?” Recently no-saled at
Worldwide Auburn, bid to $112,500 (SCM#
266562).
#153-1980 MERCEDES-BENZ 500SLC
coupe. S/N 10702612002173. Silver/blue
leather. Odo: 70,067 miles. Two owners from
new. Unrestored and in outstanding condition.
Straight paint on smooth, sheet metal, no major
issues. Very good glass, brightwork. Nice
“thunk” to the doors. Euro lamps. Power sunroof.
Rear black spoiler an eyesore. Dash
looks like it was just polished. Wood trim in
center console shows signs of delaminating.
Original seats lightly creased. Headliner has
some staining. Clean carpets. Scuffing to passenger’s
side rear grab handle. Engine bay not
detailed. Owner’s manuals in German and
English. Cond: 2+. NOT SOLD AT $21,000.
Not familiar with this model? That’s because
Mercedes only made it available for the European
market. I’m surprised no one was willing
to pony up the additional several grand
needed.
ITALIAN
#120-1946 STANGUELLINI 1100 Sport
Nazionale racer. S/N N/A. Eng. # 245811.
Red/black leather. Odo: 28,032 miles. A modified
Fiat 1100 with racing chassis. Deep paint,
flaking on hood and front right fender. Hood
has a dent. Grille dented, skewing the “1100”
nameplate. Small windshield is clear, chrome
base shiny and in good condition. Marchal
headlights. Has two Scuderia Automobilistica
Clemente Biondetti stickers. Seats look new,
show minimal wear. Three-spoke white wheel.
Battery in teeny trunk. Clean engine compartment.
A lot of miles suggests this was also
used on the road. FIVA docs. Cond: 2. SOLD
148
Sports Car Market
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Dragone Westport, CT
AT $55,000. When this car sold, the gentleman
sitting next to me leaned over and whispered,
“If it weren’t so ugly, it would’ve sold
for more.” His timing was perfect, and I had
to chuckle. I’m not sure my assessment
would’ve gone that far, but this was without a
doubt an acquired taste. Perfect for the collector
who values Italian oddballs. Sold $20k
short of the low estimate, so call it well
bought, though I’m not convinced seller
would’ve done much better anywhere else.
#139-1947 LANCIA APRILIA prototype
convertible. S/N 43911844.
Blue/black canvas/burgundy leather.
RHD. Odo: 106 km. Recently restored, presents
as mint condition. Front and center in
Dragone’s showroom just prior to the auction.
Paint, glass, brightwork, interior all pristine.
Nothing major to fault. Pininfarina coach work,
BEST
BUY
that Stanga modified for racing. Abarth bored
the 500-cc engine to 600 cc. It might take
some acrobatics for someone just under six
feet to climb into this thing, and once there,
you may start waxing nostalgic for the old toy
pedal cars you drove when you were a kid.
The engine even had a putt-putt cadence to it.
High bid was way off the $125k low estimate,
so no deal today. The right buyer wasn’t in the
room.
#135-1958 LANCIA AURELIA B24 S
convertible. S/N B24S1649. Silver/black
canvas/red leather. Odo: 54,286 miles. Repaint
must be in the not too distant past, as it
gleams. Too bad about the blotches, discoloration
and starbursts on rear deck lid. Top looks
totally new, but window’s cloudy. Gorgeous
Borrani wires shine. Fresh interior. Jaeger instruments.
Classy three-spoke wood wheel.
center in auction room. Catalog described it
as a concept car, though it is complete and
runs. You’d be forgiven for imagining a garish
appearance with all that copper and brass, but
the effect was quite tasteful. A unique one-off,
the value of which will always be whatever
two parties agree on. Today, that remained a
mystery, as the high bid was nowhere near
where it needed to be to get the deal done.
#117-1972 DETOMASO PANTERA
coupe. S/N THPNMD04013. Yellow/black
leather. Odo: 30,191 miles. Appears to be an
all-original, low-mileage car. Stellar paint
marred by flake on driver’s door. Campagnolo
wheels. Pirelli P7s. Upgraded ANSA exhaust.
Interior nearly showroom. 200-mph speedo.
Came standard with power windows and a/c.
JVC sound. Original engine and transaxle
and the catalog claims Battista Farina himself
drove this to the 1946 Paris Motor Show.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $396,000. I was mesmerized
at the sight of this car. Stunning. The new
owner got doubly rewarded: He took this
home below the $450k low estimate and got
possibly the finest Aprilia on the planet. I’ll
wager he was the happiest person in Westport
that Saturday afternoon.
#143-1951 FIAT STANGA barchetta.
S/N 1100203743. Red/black & red leather.
Odo: 12,921 miles. Simple yet pleasing, Motto
coachwork is toy-like in its dimensions. Alloy
body. Driver-grade paint, bubbling near door.
Grille marked up. Small wraparound windshield
has many scratches, signs of adhesive
residue. Le Mitiche Sport a Bassano sticker.
Fiat Topolino Mille Miglia badge on hood,
though there’s no indication this car participated
in the event—but it is eligible. Newer
Michelins. Looks straight underneath. Simple
Carpets clean. No radio. Dash trim has a few
tears. Waviness in chrome sills. Tonneau in
trunk. Grand Tour Internazionale Di Sicilia
sticker on windshield. Cond: 2. NOT SOLD
AT $350,000. Not a Spider America, or the
$450k–$500k pre-sale estimate would have
nearly tripled. Ready for any concours or
touring event. A car that should have sold, had
the right buyer been in the room.
#151-1967 EXEMPLAR 1 concept car.
S/N 6749467. White/red leather. Odo: 1,783
miles. One-off design by Mario Revelli di
Beaumont with Coggiola coachwork. Commissioned
by the Bridgeport Brass Company
and Copper Development Association; toured
the U.S. to promote the use of copper in automobiles.
Built on a Buick Gran Sport chassis.
Copper, copper alloys, brass and bronze are
applied liberally, and not just as decorative
trim on the body and in the interior, but in
mechanical components as well. Custom
brass-plated Borranis. Dual copper radiators,
disc brakes. Rear window has brass shutters.
claimed to be rebuilt, and traveled a mere four
miles since service. From the Yankee Candle
Car Museum. I want one. Cond: 1-. SOLD AT
$79,750. Didn’t even come close to meeting
the $95k low estimate, and so either the estimate
was pie-in-the-sky or sale price was all
the money. A check of the SCM Pocket Price
Guide has the high estimate at $75k, which
suggests the latter. I’m torn, as I think these
deserve a higher place in the hierarchy. Let’s
call this well sold today.
#140-1987 DETOMASO PANTERA
GT5-S coupe. S/N IA9PN8743HD111013.
Black/tan leather. Odo: 16,710 miles. Italian
styling by Ghia with a 351-ci mid-engine
Cleveland V8. Said to be one of less than 50
imported to the U.S. Two owners from new.
An original specimen with very low miles;
reportedly spent much of its life in a climatecontrolled
environment. Nice paint. Scuffing
on rocker panels. Gold Campagnolo wheels.
Seats nicely worn in. Excellent wood trim.
Door linings bunching up. Headliner baggy.
Radar under dash. Technics sound. Rebuilt
red dash has a few cracks. Odo and tach, that’s
it. Seats look new. Cond: 3+. NOT SOLD AT
$80,000. Based on a Fiat 500 Topolino chassis
150
Dual glass pane roof. Cond: 1-. NOT SOLD
AT $800,000. In the Dragone Collection for
the past 25 years. Catalog cover car, front and
engine and tranny, aftermarket ANSA exhaust.
Missing smog equipment, but comes with car.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $129,250. The GT5-S
was wider than the regular Pantera, with more
horsepower and with steel fender extensions.
The miles were stated to be original, and the
Sports Car Market
Page 150
Dragone Westport, CT
car got plenty of eyeballs. As I’d never seen
one before, it made me wonder if you could
find another example better than this. The winning
bid did not meet the $150k low estimate,
and I’d have to call this very well bought.
#147-1988 FERRARI TESTAROSSA
coupe. S/N ZF5617AOJ0077852. Rossa
Corsa/tan leather. Odo: 14,809 miles. Paint is
superb. All glass and rubber excellent. Low
miles claimed to be original and fully documented.
Body panels excellent. Pristine interior
shows light use. Carpets clean. Clear
instrument gauges. Service receipts reportedly
from day one. Schedoni luggage comes with
Had to be close to hitting the reserve, but consignor
was unwilling to yield.
#134-1922 MERCER SERIES 5 tourer.
S/N 17990. Green/tan canvas/black leather.
Odo: 30,991 miles. Stated to be out of 40-year
ownership. Very well-preserved, highly original
Mercer. Likely a repaint done eons ago, as
there’s severe cracking and flaking throughout.
Front left Bosch headlamp, fog light cracked.
Copious brass trim mostly dull. Top heavily
stained, has tears, clear glass window. Newer
whitewalls. Dual rear-mounted spares. Painted
Torrington, CT. Nicely preserved, but would
benefit from the restorative powers of a LaSalle
devotee. The winning bid seemed low,
though there may not be a whole lot left at
retail after a full restoration. The buyer can
also opt to keep it as-is, maybe spruce it up a
bit, and enjoy its originality. Let’s call this one
well bought, but not badly sold.
#124-1930 PACKARD CUSTOM
EIGHT 740 phaeton. S/N 178999. Eng. #
181204. Black/tan leather. Odo: 42,640 miles.
Barn find. Chrome-plated frame rusted. I
thought the car was black, but it was so heavily
faded it was hard to tell. Top in rags; wood
supporting structure intact. Headlamps, running
board, bumpers all there. Dual sidemounted
spares, but passenger’s is missing.
Dull painted wires. Interior a mess, full of
car. Not much amiss here. Cond: 1-. SOLD
AT $121,000. Testarossas are now getting
attention after being undervalued for many
years. Sold at no reserve, this one landed in
the sweet spot of the market, if not a notch
high. Amazing to think these are going to new
homes at double what they were 10 years ago.
Well bought and sold, with a tip of the cap to
the buyer.
AMERICAN
#116-1912 EMF MODEL 30 tourer. S/N
A35089. Green & black/black vinyl/black
leather. RHD. Odo: 55,346 miles. Older restoration
mellowed, showing its age. Paint is certainly
passable but has imperfections. Dull but
nicely patinated brass trim. EMF name on
radiator. Wood spoke wheels have brass center
caps with EMF logo. Single brass taillight.
Spotty horizontally split windshield. Top’s
good. Battery in green metal box on passenger’s
running board. Newer leather seats holding
up very well. Large wood steering wheel
makes driving this a bit easier. Clean engine
Rudge wire wheels. Original leather seats
cracked, insides exposed in places. Rear seat
shows hardly any use. Brass wheel, switches.
Has original bill of sale. IL plate. Cond: 3.
NOT SOLD AT $70,000. Like other early
cars in this sale, the condition rating was insignificant
compared with the car’s magnetism.
A tribute to its previous caretakers who
maintained its highly original state and wonderful
preservation. The car didn’t come close
to meeting its $100k low estimate and rightly
stayed with the seller for the return trip home.
#138-1929 LASALLE SERIES 328 dual-
cowl phaeton. S/N 414551. Green &
black/tan canvas/black vinyl. Odo: 63,554
miles. Original, unrestored car. Repaint from
long ago hasn’t aged very well. Rampant flaking,
some blotches, especially on hood. Contrasting
green pinstriping intact. Wires painted
white, now dull. Ho-hum chrome. Wind
wings. Good glass. Folding windshield. Top is
lowered, but what I can see is dirty; wood support
mechanism in good shape. Dual side-
parts. Seats are shot, looks like they used to be
tan. Rusted dash. Severely soiled engine bay.
Not running. Cond: 5. SOLD AT $38,500.
Wretched, but savable since the body and
frame were there. No illusions—this will require
a sizable investment to bring back to its
former glory—but still a bargain at the price
paid, way under the $65k low estimate.
#154-1931 CHRYSLER CD8 roadster.
S/N 7505332. Maroon & black/tan canvas/tan
leather. Odo: 62,712 miles. Very attractive
rumble-seat roadster. Car would benefit from a
repaint. Chips, flakes, scratches, cracks on
hood and elsewhere. Red pinstriping intact.
Average chrome, flakes on front bumper.
Windshield scratched. Driver’s door out. Top
down, couldn’t inspect. Fog lights with yellow
lenses. Spare in back. Wood-spoke artillery
bay. Cond: 3. NOT SOLD AT $31,000. A
short-lived Detroit-based manufacturer from
1908 to 1912, when it folded into Studebaker.
An honest tourer that could have doubled as a
great conversation starter: “EMF? Never
heard of it. Please regale us with its history.”
152
mounts in soiled tan canvas covers. New tires.
Seats look and feel new. Carpets clean. Original
shop manual in driver’s storage pouch.
Grimy engine bay. Cond: 3. SOLD AT
$44,000. A charity car to benefit students at
the Oliver Wolcott Technical High School in
wheels with Firestone whitewalls. Seats have
a nice worn-in feel. Five instrument gauges
against an unblemished black dash. Some of
the upholstery lining is scuffed. Engine bay
Sports Car Market
Page 152
Dragone Westport, CT
needs TLC. Cond: 3. NOT SOLD AT
$55,000. A performance-focused Chrysler at a
time when the Great Depression was tightening
its grip. Its very stylish coachwork with
nice proportions made me forgive its flaws.
High bid was $15k shy of the low estimate.
Were I the seller, I would’ve taken this lovely
machine home, too.
#152-1932 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL CL
convertible. S/N 7803353. Green/black
canvas/green leather. Odo: 1,983 miles. Said
to be one of 49 produced, and only 16 known
to exist. Very appealing LeBaron coachwork.
Had to be restored not too long ago to look
this good. Paint, brightwork, glass all done to
a high standard. A thin line of yellow pinstriping.
Mirrors on dual sidemounts. Front-hinged
doors. Excellent top with glass window. Rear
body color-matching metal luggage. Sumptu-
trasting black belt moldings. Doors open and
close okay, not great. Good gaps. Dual trumpet
horns, taillights. Sidemounts in shiny
chrome housings. Luggage rack. Red-painted
and feel new. From the rear, it reminds me of
Auburn’s Boattail Speedster. Cond: 2-. SOLD
AT $330,000. Polarizing one-off design; said
to be the only Ford to wear Viotti coachwork.
Its drivetrain, hardware and body panels were
claimed to be original. What price for exclusivity?
Dragone estimated $475k–$600k.
Hammer fell way under, which I’ll call very
well bought.
#109-1935 STUDEBAKER DICTATOR
wires. New seats; passenger’s has a few stains.
Excellent dash, carpets. Metal trim made to
look like wood. Gumout starting fluid in
cabin. Detailed engine compartment. Fourspeed
manual synchromesh. CCCA Full Classic.
Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $230,000. Very
impressive on its 142-inch wheelbase. This
deserved more than what was bid today. I
guess a true Packard devotee wasn’t in attendance.
#141-1935 FORD MODEL 48 Carrozze-
ous inside. Beautiful wood trim. A CCCA Full
Classic. Stunning. Cond: 1-. NOT SOLD AT
$350,000. The CL was introduced in ’32 with
a 145-inch wheelbase, 10 inches longer than
the CH. This was an impressive CL that
checked all the right boxes. It will have an
open invitation at any premium event. High
bid came nowhere near the $425k low estimate.
Following close on the heels of two
other Northeastern events—Simeone and Hershey—perhaps
the shoppers who would traditionally
go wild for an offering of this vintage
and caliber decided to take a break and stay
home.
#129-1932 PACKARD DELUXE EIGHT
903 roadster. S/N 193958. Silver/black canvas/
gray leather. Odo: 1,060 miles. Fifteenyear-old
body-off restoration still looks fantastic.
Beautiful paint hurt by crack at
passenger’s door. Red pinstriping. Nice con-
brightwork, good glass. Soft top is in car.
Funky psychedelic steering wheel. Spartan
dash in white with few instruments. Seats look
ria Viotti spider. S/N 18F1472994. Red/black
vinyl/red leather. RHD. Odo: 5,066 miles.
Based on a 1935 Ford V8 chassis, this was
reputedly designed for Italian auto engineer,
race car driver and journalist Giovanni Lurani;
found in Argentina in the 1960s, then stored in
the U.S. for over 40 years. Decades-old paint
remarkably fresh, flakes at doors. Hints of
white paint on hood. Scintilla headlamps. Nice
roadster. S/N 5502814. Red & black/black
canvas/red leather. Odo: 80,536 miles.
Claimed to be one of only two ’35 roadsters
known to exist. Recent restoration likely revitalized
this car to better-than-new. Crisp paint,
some flakes on hood, bubbles at rear. Black
pinstripe unmarred. Excellent brightwork,
sheet metal. Huge radiator, bullet headlamps,
dual trumpet horns. Front-hinged doors. External
antenna. Rear spare. Rumble seat. Excellent
soft top with red piping, clear glass
window. Awesome interior with top-notch
wood trim. Clean door jambs, carpets. Large
black wheel. AACA National First Prize winner.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $55,000. The model
previously known as the Standard Six became
the Dictator in the late 1920s, suggesting that
the model “dictated the standard” that others
would follow. A rakish design that got a lot of
attention, this was yet another favorite of
mine. Gorgeous. These aren’t a common sight
on the auction block, but relatively recent
sales in the SCM Platinum Auction Database
suggest the buyer got a good deal, given this
one’s super condition. Well bought, $10k shy
of the low estimate.
#122-1937 LINCOLN MODEL K con-
vertible. S/N K8193. Burgundy/tan canvas/
brown leather. Odo: 93,101 miles. Original,
never restored. Paint’s coming undone all over
body, plenty of orange peel, bubbles. Red pinstripe.
Top looks new, as does supporting
mechanism, clear glass window. Enclosed dual
154
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Page 154
Dragone Westport, CT
sidemount spares. Dual outside mirrors. Rumble
seat, but no latch to open and close. Whitewalls.
Heavily flaked paint on interior panels
and dash, especially glovebox. Driver’s door
lining scruffy. Carpets need a vacuuming.
Clean trunk. Room for two, no rear seats. Tidy
engine bay, considering it traveled almost
100k miles. CCCA Full Classic. Cond: 3-.
SOLD AT $99,000. Listed in the catalog as a
’38, but announcement from the podium clarified
it as a ’37. If you’re in the market for a
full-fledged Classic from this period, sure,
there’s Packard, but consider a Model K. One
of Lincoln’s finest, it has V12 power, reliability
and comfort—due in no small part to that 145inch
wheelbase. This one sold at the lower end
of the market range. Yes, it had needs, but at
this price, the buyer can do some patching up
and still come out ahead. Well bought.
#127-1938 CADILLAC SERIES 90 V16
convertible. S/N 5270060. Gold/brown canvas/
brown leather. Odo: 1,974 miles. Rides on
a huge 141-inch wheelbase. Claimed to be one
of only four in existence, but no other details
given. Looks like a recent resto. Nice, smooth
finish. Great glass, lenses clear. Dual Trippe
Safety Speedlights in front. Good chrome,
gaps. Dual enclosed side-mounted spares.
Tasteful interior has lovely woodgrain in the
doors and dash; scratches on glovebox. Fold-
while Dragone thought it’d get more ($65k
was the low estimate), the buyer claimed ownership
for a song. Very well bought.
#157-1941 BUICK ROADMASTER Se-
ries 76C convertible coupe. S/N 14121387.
Black/black canvas/red leather. Odo: 77,605
miles. Recently restored. Excellent finish,
some chips inside driver’s door. All chrome,
trim, glass very good. Black canvas power top
with red piping in top-notch condition, as is
black canvas tonneau. Fantastic interior looks
new. All gauges, instruments, controls there.
close all the way. Newer whitewalls. “Willys
Overland” engraved in black on rear bumper.
Extra effort needed to open tailgate. Clean,
red-painted dash. Aftermarket tach affixed to
wheel. Cloth headliner in good shape. Clarion
Marine audio unit below dash, dual speakers
in footwells. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $19,250. So
easy to imagine yourself behind the wheel of
this artifact of Americana, motoring off to the
beach or just tooling around town. The money
here was a little strong, but that’s the consignor’s
reward for keeping it in such great
condition. Both buyer and seller should be
happy with this result.
#112-1957 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
convertible. S/N E7S102634. Onyx Black &
Inca Silver/white vinyl/red vinyl. Odo: 3,340
miles. 283-ci 270-hp V8, 2x4-bbl, 4-sp. Must
be a newer restoration to look this nice. Paint
has a lustrous finish. Side coves in smooth
Inca Silver. Chrome door sills have scratches.
Good glass. Extra effort needed to open and
close driver’s door. Has both hard and soft
tops; the latter is on the car and fits well, has a
clear plastic window. Pristine inside, no major
ing seats in back for two passengers. Large,
clean trunk can double as sleeping quarters.
Tidy engine bay. CCCA Full Classic. Cond:
2+. SOLD AT $291,500. An AACA National
First Prize and CCCA award winner. The
pleasing color scheme enhanced its opulent
appearance. I was surprised when the auctioneer
announced that this was going to be
sold, as bidding was a long way from the
$325k low estimate. I guess the seller just
didn’t want to wait any longer to unload it.
Well bought.
#107-1938 LASALLE SERIES 50
convertible. S/N 2270981. Cream
yellow/brown canvas/tan leather.
Odo: 9,790 miles. Older restoration holding up
well. Paint’s much better than average, but not
concours. Orange peel visible, cracks at rumble
seat. Nice chrome trim, good glass, gaps.
Yellow-painted rims. Newer whitewalls. Good
lenses. No issues with clean interior or engine
bay. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $49,500. It was either
prepped for the auction or had barely touched
tarmac since its refurbishment. This was a
good-looking LaSalle in pleasing colors, and
BEST
BUY
156
Clean engine bay. “Roadmaster” an apt moniker
for its 126-in wheelbase and 4,451 pounds.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $65,000. Not much to
quibble about here. Last sold at Dragone’s
sale in Westport, CT, at $74,250 in May 2013
(SCM# 216536). At the time, the SCM reporter
noted a “3-” condition car with needs. With
less than 200 miles on the odo since and in
much better condition, I expected the car to
fetch way more. Well bought.
#108-1952 WILLYS JEEP wagon. S/N
452AAZ11281. Red/brown vinyl. Odo: 81,543
miles. 134-ci I4, 1-bbl, 3-sp. Recent restoration
to high standard. Dents in hood. Very
good glass. Variable chrome. Grille shows
nice detail. Wonderful simulated wicker cane
trim along both sides. Driver’s door doesn’t
issues. Clean carpets, manual windows work.
Stock engine bay tidy. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT
$77,000. This was the first year of fuel injection,
but this example came off the line with
the optional dual-quad setup. A well-presented
’Vette that sold $10k shy of the low estimate.
Well bought for its condition alone.
#148-1959 IMPERIAL CROWN con-
vertible. S/N M637104694. Red/white vinyl/
white leather. Odo: 69,204 miles. 413-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Pushbutton auto in dash. One of
555 built, and 15–20 remain, per the WPC
(Walter P. Chrysler) Club register. Mid-’90s
restoration, still stunning. A reportedly recent
cosmetic upgrade saw addition of a new convertible
top and leather seats. Sharp paint,
flakes on both doors. Front bumper scratched.
Very good glass, panel fit. Top fits perfectly.
Some dirt on seats, door linings. Black dash
padding excellent. Stock AM radio, power
windows, seats, a/c. Classy. Cond: 2. NOT
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English
1947 MG TC police car roadster
1959 MGA Twin-Cam roadster
Beautifully restored, rare flat-floor car with
detailed documentation. Ordered new at the 1961
Paris Salon, this concours-winning car is one
of the earliest E-types on record with desirable
external bonnet latches. Includes Jaguar Heritage
Certificate, toolkit and Shelley jack. Owner wishes
to trade for comparable car or sell. Contact Robert,
703.761.1444. Email: bmorris@billycaspergolf.
com (VA)
1963 Jaguar Mk 2 4-dr sedan
1961 Jaguar XKE Series I roadster
Email: ebwestfam@cox.net. Alternate contact: Scott
602.541.9444 (AZ)
1965 Porsche 911 coupe
Has 1967 911S engine (s/n 960348). Cosmetics just
professionally restored (Lundquist, SLC). Looks
great, runs well. Same owner 30-plus years, with
lots of receipts. CoA. Beautiful, very early, rare 911
SWB. Must sell, accepting offers. Email for additional
info and pics. Contact Dave, Email: hedderly@msn.
com (UT)
1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE coupe
Award-winning MG with police-ordered modified
engine, delivered to County of Kent (U.K.). Righthand
drive; extensive documentation includes order
sheet, 2006 Queensland’s parade and confirmation
of purchase by County of Kent. Runs fantastic (over
65 mph) and includes police car signage and siren
bell. Estimated value at $60,000. Owner wishes to
trade for comparable car or sell. Contact Robert,
703.761.1444. Email: dennyminami@gmail.com
(MD)
1954 Arnolt Bristol roadster
Rare and unmolested example that is one of only
2,111 examples ever produced. Collector-owned,
with fewer than 500 test miles since a recent detailed
restoration by Twin-Cam specialist Jim Alcorn of La
Jolla, CA. Includes books, tools, BMIHT Certificate
and black tonneau cover. Classic Showcase.
760.758.6100. Email: webmaster@classicshowcase.
com Web: classicshowcase.com/index.php/inventory/
detail/452 (CA)
1959 Jaguar XK 150S drophead coupe
A beautifully and properly restored car that spent
most its life in California. Stunning black/black.
Rare sunroof. Meticulously maintained and turnkey.
$490,000. Matthew L. deGarmo Ltd. Contact
Matthew, 203.852.1670. Email: matt@degarmoltd.
com Web: deGarmoLtd.com(CT)
This is the Arnolt factory prototype car; one of 145
built. Extremely well documented and restored to
perfection. Original colors, red with tan, has all
books, tools. Please inquire for complete details.
Matthew L. deGarmo Ltd. Contact Matthew,
203.852.1670. Email: matt@degarmoltd.com Web:
deGarmoLtd.com(CT)
1955 Austin-Healey 100S roadster
Rare and elegant 150S with overdrive. Professionally
restored in original color combo. Verified by its
JDHT COA and includes tools, spare, jack, grease
gun and owner’s manual. For the discerning
collector demanding excellence and a superb driving
experience with no excuses. Classic Showcase.
760.758.6100. Email: webmaster@classicshowcase.
com Web: classicshowcase.com/index.php/inventory/
detail/488(CA)
1960 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I roadster
1967 Jaguar E-type Series I roadster
1970 Porsche 911S coupe
Lovingly looked-after Arizona car with a/c,
automatic, original radio, new interior and new
convertible top. Hard top, rechromed, fresh paint
(scratched before). Numbers match. $58,000. Contact
Peter, 450.451.6518. Email: peter.nicoll@gmail.
com (CAN)
Beautiful, numbers-matching example, great color
combo, with only 912 miles showing. Recent engine
and brake system rebuild, new aluminum radiator,
exhaust system, 4-speed with overdrive, chrome wire
wheels and includes original toolkit. Experience a
highly original and sought-after Jaguar example
today. Classic Showcase. Contact 760.758.6100.
Email: webmaster@classicshowcase.com (CA)
1967 Aston Martin DB6 coupe
Excellent condition, rare model. Financing available.
A must-see. Please call for more information
regarding this car or to arrange to see the car.
$58,500 OBO. Fine Cars. Contact Bob, 610.594.0918.
Email: bob.moyer@uiponline.net (PA)
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL convertible
Numbers matching, the subject of a recent
restoration by Jaguar professionals, and one of the
last of the Series I XKEs produced. Striking color
combination, complete and ready to be shown,
driven and enjoyed today. Approximately 100 miles
since restoration. Classic Showcase. Contact n/a,
760.758.6100. Email: webmaster@classicshowcase.
com (CA)
German
Dispatched new to Swedish distributors Ab Hans
Osterman on July 1, 1955. In Australia since the
mid-1970s and comprehensively restored in the early
1990s by the current owner. Fitted with 100S engine
number IB222270 from AHS3701. POR Contact Ray,
61+410431917. Email: rdelaney@creditline.com.
au (AUS)
1952 EMW/BMW 327/2 cabriolet
Concours restoration on a flawless original car.
All books, tools, factory hard top, all-weather
equipment. All original sheet metal. None better.
$82,500 OBO. Matthew L. deGarmo Ltd. Contact
Matthew, 203.852.1670. Email: matt@degarmoltd.
com Web: deGarmoLtd.com(CT)
Same model as featured in November 2015 SCM.
Well preserved with over 35 years in dry New
Mexico. Upgraded with period-correct Bristol
engine, providing more spirited driving. Runs and
drives but should be serviced before extensive use.
$87,750 OBO. Contact Edward, 602.377.1197.
160
Matching numbers, original colors, fully restored by
the best guys, with extensive documentation. In a
private Porsche collection for many years. Turn-key,
needs nothing. $189,000 OBO. Matthew L. deGarmo
Ltd. Contact Matthew, 203.852.1670. Email: matt@
degarmoltd.com Web: deGarmoLtd.com(CT)
1986 Mercedes-Benz 560SL convertible
One-owner Pagoda with hard top. Drive anywhere,
just serviced. Owned by local family and used
on rare occasions. Kept in heated garage under
cover. Absolutely no rust. $24,900 OBO. All
Sports Car Market
Page 160
SCM Showcase Gallery
Classics Ltd. Contact Darren, 302.738.1888. Email:
irishusa@gmail.com Web: plus.google.com/
photos/102988372928778833247/albums/62100081
13545586689?banner=pwa(DE)
1988 Mercedes-Benz 560SL convertible
Italian
1970 Ferrari 246 GT Dino coupe
American
1939 Ford Standard wagon
1963 Chevrolet Corvette convertible
Wonderful original condition including near-perfect
body and paint. New tires, like-new interior, soft
top and hard top. Runs and drives very well. Two
owners from new. Central Classic Cars. Contact
Chuck, 419.618.3855. Email: chuckputsch@hotmail.
com (OH)
1995 BMW M3 CSL LTW homologation coupe
With the exception of a strip and concourslevel
repaint in factory-original color, this is
a low-mileage, super-original car. Extensive
documentation. Superb condition and turn-key.
$355,000. Matthew L. deGarmo Ltd. Contact
Matthew, 203.852.1670. Email: matt@degarmoltd.
com Web: deGarmoLtd.com(CT)
1973 Iso Rivolta Lele coupe
Factory stock, no rust ever, beautiful original wood,
highly detailed, mechanically fresh, Adirondack
summer estate car. History is known from new.
$75,000 Contact Phil, 760.451.1978. Email:
restoman42@aol.com (CA)
1950 Chrysler Town & Country Newport
woodie coupe
Factory-air convertible. Low miles. Original
and unrestored! When only the best will do!
Additional photos online. NCRS #136. $69,995.
ProTeam Corvette. Contact Terry, Email: terry@
proteamcorvette.com Web: www.proteamcorvette.
com/Corvette-1963-1020G/1020G.html(OH)
1965 Chevrolet Corvette convertible
IMSA Homologated street car. One of 75 produced
for North America. Complete example with all
Motorsport extra parts. Never raced or tracked.
Two owners from new. Original paint, white with
Motorsport flags. Great documented history. Fewer
than two dozen original examples left in the world.
BMWCCA member ownership. Documentation from
PTG (BMWNA race group). $89,990. AutoKennel.
Contact Paul, 714.335.4911. Email: paul@
autokennel.com Web: www.autokennel.com(CA)
2002 Mercedes-Benz CL500 AMG Lorinser
coupe
Beautiful, highly original, low-mileage example
with long-term California ownership. Powered
by its original 351 Cleveland V8. Equipped with
all options including ZF power steering and a/c.
Elegant hand-built Italian design with the ease of
American maintenance. A rare car seldom available
for purchase. Contact Mike, 916.215.0977. Email:
mclarke327@comcast.net (CA)
1973 DeTomaso Pantera L coupe
AACA Hershey prize winner 2011. One of 599
produced, two owners. Bill of sale from 1951,
magazine cover car, L-head straight-8, Prestomatic
transmission, rare four-wheel-disc brakes. Wood in
excellent condition, outstanding interior and chrome.
Financing available, serious inquiries only. $65,000.
Fine Cars. Contact Bob, 610.594.0918. Email: bob.
moyer@uiponline.net (PA)
1953 Allard K3 roadster
Certified Bloomington Gold Survivor. Radio
delete, L76 327/365-hp, 4.11 rear, sidepipes.
Original paint and interior, black convertible top
and red hard top, Protect-O-Plate. $79,995 OBO.
Maxatawny Auto Sales. Contact Paul, 610.683.0480.
Email: maxacars@gmail.com Web: www.
maxatawnyusedcars.com/1965-Chevrolet-Corvette/
Used-Convertible/Kutztown-PA/6662327/Details.
aspx(PA)
1966 Shelby GT350 H fastback
Really nice, one of a kind! One owner, low miles.
Fully loaded, navigation, Lorinser edition package:
18-inch premium wheels, body kit, rear-window
trim, chrome steel exhaust tips. 5.0L 8-cyl SFI 24V.
302hp. Stored in heated/cooled garage. $27,900.
Fine Cars. Contact Bob, 610.594.0918. Email: bob.
moyer@uiponline.net (PA)
2004 Porsche C4S cabriolet
Very original excellent condition. Just completed
stunning top-quality repaint in original yellow.
Everything including a/c works. Runs cool and strong.
$87,750 OBO. Contact Gary, 480.892.6195. Email:
garychendrickson@cox.net (AZ)
1986 Ferrari Testarossa coupe
One owner for most of its life. Shown at The Quail
and Amelia Island after its documented restoration
on a mint, original car. Stunning condition, all
correct and fully sorted. Please inquire for complete
details. Matthew L. deGarmo Ltd. Contact Matthew,
203.852.1670. Email: matt@degarmoltd.com Web:
deGarmoLtd.com(CT)
1954 Kaiser Darrin 161 roadster
Very original with low mileage. Repainted red and
4-speed transmission installed in the 1970s per
Shelby Registry. Otherwise all original. In private
Shelby collection past 10 years. Runs and drives
absolutely without fault. $145,000. Matthew L.
deGarmo Ltd. Contact Matthew, 203.852.1670.
Email: matt@degarmoltd.com Web: deGarmoLtd.
com(CT)
1967 Chevrolet Corvette 350-hp convertible
Original top and paint, original miles. Good
condition. $39,900 OBO. Contact Lorenzo,
915.345.0320. Email: classifieds@sportscarmarket.
com (TX)
Very clean and presentable. Extensive engineout
and systems service 300 miles ago. Original
unmarked wheels. No rust, no dirt. Email your
mail address for a complete presentation. Contact
Stan, 262.783.6510. Email: StanJohnson@bizwi.
rr.com (WI)
This outstanding example of a rare sports car
has benefited from a high-quality interior and
exterior restoration. Great color combination,
upgraded overdrive option, fully mechanically
sorted, low mileage and extensive documentation.
Stylish and understated elegance. Owner wishes to
trade for comparable car or sell. Contact Robert,
703.761.1444. Email: bmorris@billycaspergolf.
com (VA)
Two-owner car. Body-off restored. Documented.
When only the best will do! Additional photos
online. NCRS #136 $129,000 ProTeam Corvette.
Contact Terry, Email: terry@proteamcorvette.com
Web: www.proteamcorvette.com/Corvette-19671027G/1027G.html(OH)
162
Sports Car Market
Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information, e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
Auction Companies
Artcurial Motorcars.
33 (0)1 42 99 2056. 33 (0)1 42 99 1639.
7, Rond-Point des Champs-Elysées,
75008 Paris, France.
Email: motorcars@artcurial.com.
www.artcurial.com/motorcars. (FR)
Auctions America. 877.906.2437.
Auctions America specializes in the
sale of American classics, European
sports cars, Detroit muscle, hot rods
and customs. The company boasts an
expert team of specialists, who offer
180 years combined experience buying,
selling, racing and restoring collector
vehicles, making them uniquely qualified
to advise on all aspects of the hobby.
www.auctionsamerica.com. (IN)
JR-Auctions. A Wyoming-based
company, founded by Robert A. Tybor,
entrepreneur/businessman and Jeff
Davi, Entrepreneur/ Real-Estate Broker.
JR-Auctions will be hosting its first
live/virtual Monterey Plaza Hotel classic
Auto/Yacht Auction in Aug, 2015
overlooking the beautiful Monterey
Bay. For more information please visit
our website jr-auctions.com or call to
844-572-8867. Accepting Consignments-please
register online. You don’t
want to miss it.
Hollywood Wheels Auctions &
Shows 800.237.8954. Hollywood
Wheels is a premier auction house
that specializes in Porsche sports cars,
European exotics, American classics &
historical race cars. Each year, during
the Amelia Island Car Week, they host
the Amelia Island Select & Auto Retro™
within the ballroom of the Amelia
Island Omni Plantation Resort. Hollywood
Wheels… Where Great Cars Are
Bought & Sold!
www.hollywoodwheels.com
and a world-class auction at the Omni
Amelia Island Plantation in Florida in
March. www.goodingco.com. (CA)
but also provides a unique and exciting
social environment that is befitting of
the rarest and finest automobiles.
www.motostalgia.com
email: info@motostalgia.com
facebook.com/Motostalgia
Twitter: @Motostalgia
Palm Springs Auctions Inc.
Keith McCormick. 760.320.3290.
760.323.7031. 244 N. Indian Canyon
Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
A family-run auction house producing
two large classic cars auctions per year.
McCormick’s Palm Springs Auctions
has been in business for over 25 years,
and each auction features over 500 classics
& exotics.
www.classic-carauction.com. (CA)
Carlisle Collector Car Auctions.
Barrett-Jackson Auction.
480.421.6694. 480.421.6697. For over
four decades, the Barrett-Jackson Auction
Company has been recognized
throughout the world for offering only
the finest selection of quality collector
vehicles, outstanding professional
service and an unrivaled sales success.
From classic and one-of-a-kind cars
to exotics and muscle cars, BarrettJackson
attracts only the best. Our
auctions have captured the true essence
of a passionate obsession with cars that
extends to collectors and enthusiasts
throughout the world. A television audience
of millions watches unique and
select vehicles while attendees enjoy a
lifestyle experience featuring fine art,
fashion and gourmet cuisine. In every
way, the legend is unsurpassed. N.
Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
info@barrett-jackson.com.
www.barrett-jackson.com. (AZ)
717.243.7855. 1000 Bryn Mawr Road,
Carlisle, PA 17013. Spring and Fall
Auctions. High-line cars cross the
block. Hundreds of muscle cars, antique,
collector, and special-interest
cars, trucks and motorcycles. Real
Cars. Real Prices.
www.carlisleauctions.com. (PA)
Leake Auctions. 800.722.9942.
Dan Kruse Classics is a family-
owned collector car auction company
located in San Antonio, Texas. DKC
has been responsible for successful
collector car sales since 1972, with annual
sales in Austin, Houston and San
Antonio. Dan has personally has over
$1,000,000,000 in sales in his storied
career. Dan and daughters Tiffany,
Tedra and Tara, manage the company.
866.495.8111 Dankruseclassics.com
(TX)
Leake Auction Company was established
in 1972 as one of the first car
auctions in the country. More than 40
years later Leake has sold over 34,000
cars and currently operates auctions in
Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Dallas. Recently
they have been featured on several
episodes of three different reality
TV series — Fast N Loud on Discovery,
Dallas Car Sharks on Velocity and The
Car Chasers on CNBC Prime.
www.leakecar.com (OK)
Petersen Auction Group of
Oregon. 541.689.6824. Hosting car
auctions in Oregon since 1962. We
have three annual Auctions: February,
Oregon State Fairgrounds, Salem,
OR; July, Douglas Co. Fairgrounds,
Roseburg, OR; September, Oregon
State Fairgrounds, Salem, OR. On the
I-5 Corridor. We offer knowledgeable,
fast, friendly “hassle-free” transactions.
Oregon’s #1 Collector Car Auction
www.petersencollectorcars.com
Lucky Collector Car Auctions.
Bonhams is the largest auction
house to hold scheduled sales of classic
and vintage motorcars, motorcycles
and car memorabilia, with auctions
held globally in conjunction with internationally
renowned motoring events.
Bonhams holds the world-record price
for any motorcar sold at auction, as well
as for many premier marques.
San Francisco: (415) 391-4000
New York: (212) 644-9001
Los Angeles: (323) 850-7500
London: +44 20 7447-7447
Paris: +33 1 42 61 10 10
www.bonhams.com/motors
FOLLOW SCM
Dragone. We’ve been in the collec-
tor car business for over 60 years, selling
some of the most significant cars in
the world. Now in the auction business,
we are continuing to find and offer
significant cars publically at our sales,
many of which have not been publically
offered in decades. We will always have
something that has not been seen before.
www.dragoneauctions.com (CT)
888.672.0020. Lucky Collector Car
Auctions is aptly named after Harold
“Lucky” Lemay. Based in the majestic,
pastoral ground of Marymount, home
to the Lemay Family Collection Foundation
near Tacoma, WA, the collection,
formerly the biggest in the world,
according to Guinness, now hosts
an unrivaled event center, art collection
and charitable foundation, which
features two exceptional collector car
auctions a year. www.luckyoldcar.com
(WA)
Rick Cole Auctions . Thirty years
ago, Rick Cole conducted the first Monterey
auction, his annual events forever
changing the historic week dynamic.
Rick Cole Auctions provides upscale
clientele a boutique and silent auction
atmosphere proven to offer the finest
cars available, and achieving one of the
top ten multi-million dollar sales of all
time. August 19–22. Marriott Hotel at
Fisherman’s Wharf. info@rickcole.com
www.rickcole.com (CA)
RM Sotheby’s. 800.211.4371. RM
Motostalgia. 512.813.0636.
Gooding & Company.
310.899.1960. 310.899.0930. Gooding
& Company offers its international
clientele the rarest, award-winning examples
of collector vehicles at the most
prestigious auction venues. Our team of
well-qualified experts will advise you
on current market values. Gooding &
Company presents the official auction
of the famed Pebble Beach Concours
d’Elegance in August, the recordsetting
Scottsdale Auction in January
164
A premier international collector
car auction house offering the rarest
and finest automobiles on the world
market. Motostalgia publishes a full
photographic catalog presenting and
documenting professional descriptions
and provenance. Motostalgia’s diverse
automotive experts offer bidders and
consigners alike an accurate understanding
of the global automotive market.
With venues that parallel the most
exciting automotive events like the
U.S. Grand Prix and Keels & Wheels
Concours d’Elegance, Motostalgia offers
an upscale experience that not only
showcases the most collectable cars,
Sotheby’s is the world’s largest collector
car auction house for investmentquality
automobiles. With 35 years’
experience, RM’s vertically integrated
range of services, from restoration
to private treaty sales and auctions,
coupled with the industry’s largest
expert team of car specialists and an
international footprint, provide an unsurpassed
level of service to the global
collector car market.
www.rmsothebys.com. (CAN)
Russo and Steele Collector Auto-
mobile Auctions. 602.252.2697.
Fax: 602.252.6260. Specializing in
the finest European sports, American
Sports Car Market
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Page 163
muscle, hot rods and custom automobiles;
Russo and Steele now hosts three
record-breaking auctions per year;
Newport Beach in June; Monterey,
CA, every August, and Scottsdale, AZ,
every January. As one of the premier
auction events in the United States,
Russo and Steele has developed a reputation
for its superior customer service
and for having the most experienced
and informed experts in the industry.
www.russoandsteele.com. (AZ)
on our experience and the largest inventory
of parts in North America to build
and maintain your dream Alfa. We
carry restoration, maintenance, and exclusive
performance parts for Giulietta
through the new 4C. Newly developed
parts introduced regularly. Check our
web site or social media for new arrivals,
tech tips, and special offers..
www.centerlinealfa.com. (CO)
Paul and Ed Kramer, Costa Mesa, CA
92627. www.autokennel.com (CA)
Exotic Mosaics. 805.544.4093.
Silver Auctions. 800.255.4485.
Silver Auctions isn’t successful because
we auction the most expensive cars,
we’re successful because we auction
the cars that you love. Silver Auction’s
staff, bidders and consignors are everyday
people with a passion for Nostalgic
and Collector cars. Come see the difference
at Silver Auctions. 2020 N. Monroe,
Spokane, WA 99205.
Email: silver@silverauctions.com,
www.silverauctions.com. (WA)
Jon Norman’s Alfa Parts.
800.890.2532. 510.525.9519. 1221
Fourth Street, Berkley, CA 94710.
Large selection of parts from Giulietta
to 164. Efficient, personal service.
www.alfapartscatalog.com. (CA)
Appraisals
Celebrate your ownership experiGooding
& Company.
Silverstone Auctions is a world-
class, specialist auction house for the
sale of classic cars, modern supercars,
all types of competition cars, modern
and historic motorcycles as well as
automotive memorabilia. If you are a
buyer or seller Silverstone is the classic
vehicle auction house for you.
www.silverstoneauctions.com (U.K.)
310.899.1960. Gooding & Company’s
experts are well-qualified to appraise
individual automobiles as well as collections
and estates. Whether it is the
creation of a foundation, living trust or
arrangement of a charitable donation,
we are able to assist you.
www.goodingco.com. (CA)
ence! Automotive designer & illustrator,
Steve Anderson is a specialist in
the creation of owner-specified, fineart
illustrations. Each original piece
is hand crafted to portray the exact
specification of individual automobiles
and collections. All marques, eras,
driven, concours and race. Ferrari- &
Porsche-licensed Illustrator. For image
samples, additional information or to
discuss your project, please call us at
818.822.3063 or visit www.saillustrations.com
(CA)
Steve Austin’s Automobilia &
Motostalgia. 512.813.0636.
Worldwide Auctioneers.
800.990.6789 or 1.260.925.6789.
Worldwide Auctioneers was formed
over a decade ago by vintage-motorcar
specialists Rod Egan and John Kruse.
The sale and acquisition of classic automobiles
is our core business, and no one
is better qualified. Worldwide is unique
in having owners who are also our
chief auctioneers, so you deal directly
with the auctioneer, and we are wholly
invested in achieving the best result for
you. Our auctions are catalogue-based,
offering a limited number of higher-end
consignments, with an emphasis on
quality rather than volume. (We don’t
limit ourselves to only selling the most
expensive cars in the world, but do
ensure that every car we consign is the
very best of its type.)
We also offer specialist-appraisal,
estate-management and collectionconsultancy
services. Our dedicated
private sales division serves the needs
of individual collectors who seek privacy
or to acquire vehicles that may not
be available on the open market.
www.worldwide-auctioneers.com. (IN)
Alfa Romeo
A premier international collector car
auction house and professional appraisal
company. Motostalgia’s diverse
and multilingual automotive experts
offer collectors and investors alike an
accurate understanding of the global
and domestic automotive market. Motostalgia’s
international offices have
the capability of appraising collector
cars around the globe. With decades of
global collector car market knowledge
our experts can accurately value your
most prized automobiles, ranging from
a single pre-purchase appraisal to full
collection valuations.
www.motostalgia.com
email: info@motostalgia.com
facebook.com/Motostalgia
Twitter: @Motostalgia
Automobilia
Coachbuilt Press. 215.925.4233.
Coachbuilt Press creates limited-edition
automotive titles for the discriminating
motoring enthusiast. We present exceptional
material on the most significant
collections, museums and marques with
a balance of authoritative writing, precise
research, unique historical documents
and the modern photography of
Michael Furman. Please visit our website
to view our latest titles and order.
www.CoachbuiltPress.com (PA).
Centerline International. (888)
750-ALFA (2532). Exclusively Alfa
Romeo for over 35 years. You can rely
February 2016
165
Great Vacations. 800.452.8434. European
Car Collector tours including
Monaco & Goodwood Historics, private
collections, and car manufacturers.
Automobile Art importer of legendary
artists Alfredo de la Maria and Nicholas
Watts.
www.steveaustinsgreatvacations.com.
Unique and original mosaic hand-crafted
wall hangings of automotive subjects
by mosaic artist Jim Valentine. Made
with glazed ceramic tile with aluminum
frame and hanging wire. Can create
custom mosaics of your automobile.
Email: exoticmosaics@sbcglobal.net.
exoticmosaics.com.
Automotive Restorations.
203.377.6745. Collector car sales, both
road and race, have been a key activity
for over 35 years. Our sales professionals
actively seek consignments on
a global basis. We also offer vehicle
“search and find” for rare models. We
undertake pre-purchase inspections
worldwide. We provide auction support,
including in-person or telephone bidding
for absentee buyers. Restoration
management and special-event assistance
are also included in our services.
Our aim is to make sure that your collector
car passion is as enjoyable and
worry-free as possible.
www.automotiverestorations.com
Beverly Hills Car Club is one of the
largest European classic car dealerships
in the nation, with an extensive inventory
spanning over 50,000 sf. We can
meet all your classic car needs with our
unprecedented selection; from top-ofthe-line
models to project cars. We buy
classic cars in any shape or condition &
provide the quickest payment & pickup
anywhere in the U.S. 310.975.0272
www.beverlyhillscarclub.com (CA)
Canepa of Scotts Valley.
Vintage Auto Posters. Since 1980,
Everett Anton Singer has been supplying
international collectors with
the most diverse selection of authentic
vintage automotive posters. The vast
inventory runs from the late 1890s
through the 1960s; featuring marque,
event and product advertising. Please
visit us at:
www.VintageAutoPosters.com.
Buy/Sell/General
831.430.9940. Offering fine investment-grade
collectable road cars and
racecars for sale. Our 70,000 sq. ft. facility
houses world-class, on-premises
restoration and motorsports facilities
where automotive artisans ensure every
detail of our inventoried vehicles meet
the highest levels of refinement and
preparation. Canepa is interested in
purchasing exceptional, original and
restored automobiles. sales@canepa.
com www.canepa.com (CA)
Charles Prince Classic Cars. Based
in London, we are specialists in the
finest historic motorcars and in contact
with dealers and collectors from around
the world. We offer the best advice
and service in the collector car field.
Int T: (0)798 5988070 or email: sales@
charlesprinceclassiccars.com
www.charlesprinceclassiccars.com.
Checker Motor Cars. At Checker
Auto Kennel. 714.335.4911. Imag-
ine if you had the best of the best market
your car for sale. Jesse Alexander
taking all the photographs. Lee Iacocca
working with buyers. Keith Martin
introducing you to the right car clubs.
Well, the father and son team of AutoKennel
do just that for all their clients.
Motor Cars we have a passion for cars,
not only CHECKERS, but all cars. We
are fanatic about automobile history
and that drives our passion to restore
history and art. Sales, Parts, Service
and Restorations for Checker Automobiles.
www.checkermotorcars.com
(MA)
Page 164
Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information, e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
rations of rare American muscle cars.
www.legendarymotorcar.com (ON)
Classic Assets Motor Sports Cen-
ter. 760-452-6609 or 858-554-0331. A
first-rate used car dealership specializing
in vintage rally-eligible vehicles as
well as an eclectic private collection of
investment-grade automobiles including
classic cars, vintage rally cars and
supercars. Our business is buying and
selling classic, collectible motorcars.
We are considered to be the go-to resource
for collector cars in San Diego.
We are constantly seeking new additions.
Top quality, collectible trades
always considered. We are available to
assist buyers and sellers with all aspects
regarding classic cars including import
and export. www.ca-motorsportscenter.
com. (CA)
DeLorean Motor Company.
239.495.8550. The first franchise of
the new DeLorean Motor Company.
Celebrating our 10th year in business
we are the South Eastern United States
exclusive source for DeLorean Sales,
Service, Restoration and Parts. We have
the largest selection of DeLoreans for
sale in the world numbering 20 or more
at any time and stock a full parts inventory.
www.dmcflorida.com
Luxury Brokers International.
215.459.1606. Specializing in the sales,
purchase and brokerage of classic automobiles
for the astute collector, with
a new-age, contemporary approach.
Focusing on original, high-quality
examples as enjoyable, tangible investments.
Classic car storage, classic car
consignment, brokerage, and other
consulting services are available as
well. We actively pursue the purchase
and sales of any investment-grade classic
car. Since 2009, we have offered
a unique opportunity for collectors,
enthusiasts and other industry professionals.
www.lbilimited.com, sales@
lbilimited.com (PA)
Classic Investments Inc.
303.388.9788. Barn find. Redefined.
Since 1989 our company specializes in
the restoration, sales & service of 19501970s
Classic European Sports Cars:
Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Lancia,
Aston Martin, Jaguar, Austin Healey,
Porsche & Mercedes. Colorado’s premier
one-stop shop for all of a collector’s
needs. Friendly, knowledgeable,
passionate staff welcomes you to call
for all inquiries; our in house factorytrained
Ferrari mechanic has 40 years
experience.
www.ClassicInvest.com (CO)
Gullwing Motor Cars stocks more
than 100 cars at our warehouse location,
27 years of experience; visited
by customers across the country and
overseas. We specialize in European
and American cars and we are always
looking to buy classic cars in any condition.
We pick up from anywhere in
the U.S. Quick payment and pickup.
718.545.0500.
www.gullwingmotorcars.com
Mohr Imports, Classic and Sports
Car Brokers. 831.373.3131. Mohr
Imports Inc., of Monterey, California,
pleased to be serving the collector car
community for the past 30 years. Our
goal is to present and represent your car
in the very best way possible. We specialize
in European classics, visit us at
www.MohrImports.com. (CA)
lifeblood of our business. Contact us
today to join them. Car Sales Manager,
Alex Finigan: Alex@paulrussell.com.
(MA)
ProTeamCorvette.com. Corvettes:
1953–1982. Over 10,000 sold since
1971! Money-back guarantee. Worldwide
transportation. Z06s, L88s, L89s,
LS6s, ZR2s, ZR1s, LT1s, COPOs,
Fuelies, Special 425s/435s/RPOs.
Call toll free 888.592.5086 or call
419.592.5086. Fax 419.592.4242, email:
terry@proteamcorvette.com or visit our
website: www.ProTeamCorvette.com.
ProTeam Corvette Sales, 1410 N. Scott
St., Napoleon, OH 43545. Special Corvettes
wanted at CorvettesWanted.com!
NCRS Member #136.
www.SignificantCars.com.
Heritage Classics Motorcar ComClassic
Showcase. 760.758.6100.
For over 35 years, we’ve been restoring
automotive history and helping
collectors obtain, restore and sell
classic vehicles. Our world class facility
houses 3 showrooms of cars and
department specialty areas to perform
all facets of restoration under one roof.
Let our team, of professional craftsmen
and specialists make your classic car
vision a reality. www.classicshowcase.
com. (CA)
pany. 310.657.9699. www.heritageclassics.com.
Heritage Classics Motorcar
Company, the premier West Coast
classic car dealership established in
1985. Offering one of the largest indoor
showrooms in Southern California, with
an exceptional inventory of the very
finest American and European classic
cars available. We buy, sell and consign
collectible automobiles, offering the best
consignment terms available, contact us
at sales@heritageclassics.com
When in Southern California visit
our beautiful showroom and specialty
automotive bookstore, Heritage Classics
Motorbooks, open Monday–Saturday.
For current inventory and to visit
our virtual bookstore visit
www.heritageclassics.com
Motorcar Portfolio, LLC.
330.453.8900. Motorcar Portfolio,
LLC. 330.453.8900. Buy, sell, trade,
auction of affordable antique, classic,
collector vehicles. Bob Lichty offers
over 40 years experience in the classic
car industry. Motorcar Portfolio, LLC.
has been serving NE Ohio and the
world since 2004. Let us help with your
needs. See our current inventory at our
web site.
www.motorcarportfolio.com (OH)
800.837.9902. Since 2002, SignificantCars.com
has been changing the
way collector cars find new homes. A
Pioneer in the online marketing of important
collector cars, Significant Cars
has a proven track record for realizing
top dollar for their seller clients. Run by
Enthusiasts for Enthusiasts, Significant
Cars has put the power of the dealer or
Auction House into the hands of Collectors.
Give us a call for a confidential
analysis of your car’s true value--not
what we want to buy it for.
The Stables Automotive Group.
Park Place LTD. 425.562.1000.
Hyman Ltd Classic Cars.
Copley Motorcars. 781.444.4646.
Specializing in unique and hard-to-find
classics and sports cars. We only sell
cars we love ourselves, and deal in a
limited number of models. Before delivery
to you, all of our classics, including
Defenders, are fully inspected and
serviced by one of two expert shops.
We are located in Needham, MA.
copleycars@gmail.com,
www.copleymotorcars.com (MA)
Legendary Motorcar Company.
905.875.4700. You may have seen our
award-winning, show-quality restorations.
Our 55,000 sq. ft. facility is
specialized in extreme high-end resto-
166
314.524.6000. One of the largest inventories
of vintage cars in the world.
Please visit our website often,
www.hymanltd.com to see our current
stock. Hyman Ltd Classic Cars, 2310
Chaffee Drive, St. Louis, MO. 63146
314-524-6000 sales@hymanltd.com
Founded in 1987 in Bellevue, WA, our
dealership is locally owned and independently
operated. The four-acre Park
Place Center features an Aston Martin
sales and service center, a Lotus dealership,
and we have one of the largest
selections of collector & exotic cars
available in the Northwest. We consign,
buy and sell all types of vehicles. We
also have an in-house service center
and high-end Auto Salon.
www.ParkPlaceLtd.com
480.699.3095. Arizona’s finest facility
for automotive management and concierge
services offers show car preparation,
auction representation, storage
and transportation. Single or multi-car
collections are welcome in our climatecontrolled
20,000 sq. ft. facility located
in Scottsdale’s Airpark, near January’s
auction scene. Stop by and meet the
owners, Steve and Chris, they’re on site
every day. www.stablesgroup.com
Unit 56. At Unit 56 we love motorPaul
Russell and Company.
978.768.6092. www.paulrussell.com.
Specializing in the Preservation and
Sales of European Classics, pre-war
through the 1970s, since 1978. You
can rely on our decades of experience
with Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, Porsche,
Bugatti, Alfa Romeo and other fine
collectibles. Repeat customers are the
cycles, we truly are passionate about
them. But most importantly we strive to
have the best. History and an interesting
story are a must with anything we
buy or sell. And as far as restoration
goes we treat everything as if it was our
own. We care. Telephone: 0044 (0) 1386
700 403. www.UNIT56.co.uk
Sports Car Market
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Page 165
world record sales & Pebble Beach
class wins for our clients
Carficionado manages your valuable
classic car collection with German
precision. Contact us +49 89 82030682
pr@carficionado.com
www.carficionado.com
Vintage Motors of Sarasota.
941.355.6500. Established in 1989,
offering high-quality collector cars
to the most discerning collectors.
Vintage’s specialized services include
sales, acquisitions and consignment of
high-quality European and American
collector and sports cars. Always buying
individual cars or entire collections.
Visit our large showroom with 75+ examples
in the beautiful museum district
of tropical Sarasota, FL.
www.vintagemotorssarasota.com (FL)
Classic Car Transport
Collector Car Insurance
Heacock Classic. 800.678.5173. We
Barrett-Jackson is proud to endorse
Passport Transport. 800.736.0575.
Since our founding in 1970, we have
shipped thousands of treasured vehicles
door-to-door with our fully enclosed
auto transporters. Whether your prized
possession is your daily driver, a vintage
race car, a classic, a ’60s muscle
car or a modern exotic, you can depend
on Passport Transport to give you the
premium service it deserves. We share
your appreciation for fine automobiles,
and it shows.
www.PassportTransport.com.
a new breed of insurance for classic,
antique, exotic, special-interest, contemporary
classic and limited-edition
cars.
To get a quote is even easier with our
new online improvements. Go to
www.barrett-jackson.com/insurance/,
select Get a quote, enter in a couple of
key pieces of information about your
vehicle, and get an estimated quote
within seconds! It’s that easy.
Don’t be caught without the right
insurance for your vehicle. In the unfortunate
aftermath of damage to your
vehicle, learning that your insurance
won’t restore your prized possession
to its former glory, or appropriately
compensate you for your loss, is the last
thing you want to hear. To get a quote
by phone, call 877.545.2522.
understand the passion and needs of the
classic-car owner; agreed value, one
liability charge, 24-hour claim service
and paying by credit card. We provide
classic car insurance at rates people can
afford! Instant quotes at
www.heacockclassic.com. (FL)
E-Type UK USA. An international
specialist Jaguar E-type restoration and
sales organisation with offices in both
the U.K. and USA. E-Type UK USA are
proud to announce the impending opening
of their newly refurbished purpose
built E-type showrooms and workshops
designed to provide their USA clients
with a real test of this famous English
sports car. USA +1 805.267.6795
harry@etypeukusa.com
www.etypeukusa.com
shipping/touring insurance coverage,
commercial coverage and club liability
coverage. For more information, call or
visit www.hagerty.com. (MI)
fine British automobiles. From sports
cars to luxury sedans, our world-class
restoration facility and highly skilled
team are ready to assist your needs with
acquiring the perfect British classic
today! 760.758.6100. www.classicshowcase.com
(CA)
J.C. Taylor Insurance.
800.345.8290. Antique, classic, muscle
or modified — J.C. Taylor Insurance
has provided dependable, dynamic,
affordable protection for your collector
vehicle for over 50 years. Agreed
Value Coverage in the continental U.S.,
and Alaska. Drive Through Time With
Peace of Mind with J.C. Taylor Insurance.
Get a FREE instant quote online
at www.JCTaylor.com.
English
Chubb Collector Car Insurance.
Reliable Carriers, Inc. 877.744.7889.
As the country’s largest enclosed-auto
transport company, Reliable Carriers
faithfully serves all 48 contiguous United
States and Canada. Whether you’ve
entered a concours event, need a relocation,
are attending a corporate event, or
shipping the car of your dreams from
one location to another, one American
transportation company does it all.
www.reliablecarriers.com
Collection Management
1.866.CAR.9648. With Chubb, you’ll
have flexibility and control with worldclass
coverage and claim service. There
are no mileage restrictions, “Agreed
Value” is included, and you’re free to
use the restoration shop of your choice
for covered repairs. Special pricing is
also available for large collections. For
more information, call 1-866-227-9648
or visit www.chubbcollectorcar.com.
Fourintune Garages Inc.
262.375.0876. www.fourintune.com.
Complete ground-up restoration on
British Marques — specializing in
Austin-Healeys since 1976. Experience
you can trust, satisfied customers
nationwide. Visit our website for details
on our restoration process, which includes
a complete quotation on Healeys.
Located in historic Cedarburg — just
minutes north of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
(WI)
Aston Martin of New England.
781.547.5959. 85 Linden Street,
Waltham, MA 02452. Proudly appointed
Aston Martin Heritage Dealer
for the USA. New and pre-owned Aston
Martins are our specialty. Please contact
us when buying, selling or restoring.
www.astonmartin-lotus.com. (MA)
JWF Restorations Inc. Specializing in
AC restoration from street to concours,
U.S. Registrar AC Owners Club (U.K.).
Now selling AC parts and tires including
inventory from Ron Leonard. Jim
Feldman. 503.706.8250 Fax
503.646.4009.
Email: jim@jwfrestoration.com (OR)
Grundy Worldwide. 888.647.8639.
Carficionado Collection Manage-
ment GmbH. Florian Seidl of Carficionado
has been discreetly consulting to
car collectors worldwide since 2002.
We specialize in:
• Collection Building
• Collection Management
• Investment Guidance
• Restoration Supervision
• Researching your car’s pedigree
• Event Organization
• Insurance
• Experienced in coordination with
trusts, family offices and institutional
investors
• Exceptional global market KnowHow
• Proven track record including
February 2016
Grundy Worldwide offers agreed value
insurance with no mileage limitations,
zero deductible*, and high liability
limits. Our coverages are specifically
designed for collectible-car owners.
From classic cars to muscle cars,
Grundy Worldwide has you covered.
(*Zero deductible available in most
states.) 888.6GRUNDY (888.647.8639).
www.grundyworldwide.com. (PA)
AUTOSPORT DESIGNS, INC.
631.425.1555. All Aston Martin models
welcome regardless of age, as new inevitably
become old! Routine servicingcomplete
mechanical restorations/rebuilds
— cosmetic repair/paintwork to
complete frame-off restoration. Large
inventory of parts. All services as well
as our current unventory of automobiles
for sale can be seen at
www.autosportdesigns.com. (NY)
Kevin Kay Restorations.
Hagerty Insurance Agency, LLC.
800.922.4050. is the leading insurance
agency for collector vehicles in the
world and host to the largest network of
collector car owners. Hagerty offers insurance
for collector cars, motorcycles
and motorcycle safety equipment, tractors,
automotive tools and spare parts,
and even “automobilia” (any historic
or collectible item linked with motor
vehicles). Hagerty also offers overseas
530.241.8337. 1530 Charles Drive, Redding,
CA 96003. Aston Martin parts,
service, repair and restoration. From an
oil change to a concours-winning restoration,
we do it all. Modern upgrades
for power steering, window motors,
fuel systems and more. Feltham Fast
performance parts in stock. We also
cater to all British and European cars
and motorcycles.
www.kevinkayrestorations.net. (CA)
Welsh Enterprises, Inc.
Classic Showcase. 760.758.6100.
Classic Showcase has been an industry
leader in the restoration, service and
sale of classic Jaguars, and most other
167
800.875.5247. Jaguar parts for models
1949–presen. www.welshent.com (OH)
Page 166
Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information, e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
Events—Concours, Car Shows
Ferrari Financial Services.
Hilton Head Island Motoring Fes-
tival. The South; a place where tea is
sweet, people are darlin’, moss is Spanish
and, come autumn, cars are plentiful.
This fall, HHI Motoring Festival
returns to the towns of Savannah, GA
and Hilton Head Island, SC. Join us this
fall - October 28–November 6, 2016 - in
the land of southern hospitality. To purchase
tickets or for more information
visit www.HHIMotoringFestival.com.
201.510.2500. As the world’s only
Ferrari-owned finance company, no one
understands a Ferrari customer’s unique
perspective better than the company
that designed these iconic sports cars.
Whether it’s a line of credit for owners
interested in utilizing the equity in their
collection, or a simple interest loan, we
stand committed to help our clients enhance
their collection — without origination
or early termination fees. “FFS”
offers a level of expertise that cannot be
matched by other lenders.
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center.
1.866.MB.CLASSIC. The center of
competence for classic Mercedes-Benz
enthusiasts — for vintage car sales,
meticulous restorations by manufacturer-trained
technicians and the widest
selection of Genuine Mercedes-Benz
Classic Parts, we are the source.
www.mbclassiccenter.com. (CA)
Import/Export
Vintage Car Law. 717.884.9010
Woodside Credit. When financing
Lajollaconcours.com.
619.233.5008. lajollaconcours@mcfarlanepromotions.com
La Jolla Concours d’Elegance April
8-10, 2016. World Class Cars, World
Class Experience.
Ferrari/Maserati/Lamborghini
your classic or collector car, Woodside
Credit is all about performance. We
offer THE LOWEST PAYMENTS IN
AMERICA! and provide our clients with
fast, friendly and professional service.
For over a decade, Woodside has been
recognized as the leading lender in the
classic and collector car market and is
exclusively endorsed by Barrett-Jackson.
Apply online at woodsidecredit.com or
call 888-354-3982.
German
GTO Engineering. Servicing
worldwide clients for 20+ years, we’ve
amassed thousands of new/NOS/ used
Ferrari parts. Highly skilled engineers
offer restoration, repair and race prep
expertise across all Ferrari models utilized
for road, tours and competition.
GTO USA provides an extensive parts
selection out of Georgia and new parts,
service and restoration workshop in Los
Angeles. parts@gtoengineering.com
www.gtoengineering.com/ UK: +44 (0)
118.940.5160 USA: +1 678.635.5752
LA: +1 831.915.1970
Italian
European Collectibles, Inc.
The Elegance at Hershey.
717.534.1910. A celebration of vintage
race cars and concours automobiles
from 6/10 to 6/12/16 commencing with
the Grand Ascent, featuring the Concorso
Bizarro and culminating with our
concours d’elegance.
Our primary goal is to benefit our charities:
JDRF, AACA Museum, and AACA
Library & Research Center.
For more information, visit www.theeleganceathershey.com,
call 717-534-1910
or email don@theelganceathershey.com.
Finance
949.650.4718. European Collectibles
has been buying, consigning, selling
and restoring classic European sports
cars since 1986. We specialize in
Porsche (356 and 911) 1950s to early
1970s, along with other marks including
Mercedes, Aston Martin, Ferrari,
MG, Austin Healey and Jaguar, with 40
vehicles in stock to choose from. European
Collectibles also offers complete
mechanical and cosmetic restorations to
concours level along with routine service.
Located in Orange County, CA,
between Los Angeles and San Diego.
Sales@europeancollectibles.com or
visit our website
www.europeancollectibles.com. (CA)
Hamann Classic Cars.
203.918.8300. with more than 30 years
in the industry and worldwide clientele
in dealing in European race and sports
cars, specializes in classic Ferraris of
the ’50s & ’60s. www.ferrari4you.com
Leasing
LeMay—America’s Car Museum
Premier Financial Services is the
dC Automotive. 800-549-2410. We
J. J. BEST BANC & CO. provides
financing on classic cars ranging from
1900 to today. Visit our website at
www.jjbest.com or call 1.800.USA.1965
and get a loan approval in as little as
five minutes!
168
have the largest indoor Recycling Facility
for Porsches in the U.S. We specialize
in used rebuilt and new parts for
Porsche cars. Including all models of
the 911, 912, Carrera and Turbo, 944 16
valve S, 924S, 951, 944 Turbo, 914-4,
914-6 Boxster, 968, Cayenne,928, 928S,
928 S4 Vintage parts a specialty. We
have an extensive inventory including
used Porsche engines, transmissions,
fuchs wheels, seats, brake upgrades,
interior trim and suspension. No part is
too small. We are a God-owned family
business serving the Porsche community
for over 25 years. www.dcauto.com
252-955-0110 (text) 252-977-1430 int’l
nation’s leading lessor of vintage and
exotic motorcars. Our Simple Lease
Program is ideal for those who wish to
own their vehicle at the end of the term,
as well as for those who like to change
cars frequently. Our Simple Interest
Early Termination Program allows you
the flexibility of financing with the tax
advantages of leasing. Contact Premier
at 877.973.7700 or info@pfsllc.com.
www.premierfinancialservices.com (CT)
celebrates America’s love affair with
the automobile. Named the Best Museum
in Western Washington, the
four-level, 165,000 sq. ft. museum
features 12 rotating exhibits and 300
cars, trucks and motorcycles on display.
ACM includes a 3.5-acre show field,
State Farm Theatre, Classics Café,
banquet hall and meeting facilities and
offers a majestic view above Commencement
Bay. For more information,
visit www.lemaymuseum.org.
LeMay – America’s Car Museum
2702 E D Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
877.902.8490 (toll free)
info@lemaymuseum.org
www.lemaymuseum.org. (WA)
Parts, Accessories & Car Care
Cosdel International Transportation.
Since 1960 Cosdel International Transportation
has been handling international
shipments by air, ocean and truck.
Honest service, competitive pricing
and product expertise have made Cosdel
the natural shipping choice for the
world’s best-known collectors, dealers
and auction houses. If you are moving
a car, racing or rallying, or attending a
concours event overseas, Cosdel is your
comprehensive, worldwide resource for
all of your nationwide and international
shipping needs. We are your automobile
Export Import Experts. 415.777.2000
carquotes@cosdel.com.
www.cosdel.com. (CA)
Bryan W. Shook, Esquire acts for and
represents leading antique and collector
car dealers, brokers, restoration houses,
and private individuals Internationally.
He has been responsible for innumerable
and prominent cases, distinguishing
himself with his unparalleled
knowledge of automobiles and network
of contacts, experts, and clients. He is
redefining automotive law.
www.vintagecarlaw.com (PA)
Mercedes-Benz
The SL Market Letter.
612.567.0234. NOT just SLs but all rare
and collectible Mercedes! A key resource
on Mercedes since 1982. 100s of
Mercedes for sale, market news, price
analysis & special reports in every
issue & website. 1 & 2 yr. subscriptions
open the door to one-on-one SLML
help finding & selling specific models.
Ask about our private sales program.
www.slmarket.com (MN)
Museums
maximum flexibility while conserving
capital, lowering monthly payments,
and maximizing tax advantages. Its
Putnam’s way of letting you drive more
car for less money. For leases ranging
from $50,000 to more than one million
dollars, with terms extending up to 84
months, contact the oldest and most
experienced leasing company in the
country by calling 1.866.90.LEASE. Or
just visit www.putnamleasing.com.
Legal
California Car Cover Company.
Putnam Leasing. 866.90.LEASE.
For over 30 years, Putnam Leasing
has been the leader in exotic, luxury,
and collector car leasing. This honor
comes from Putnam’s unique ability
to match the car of your dreams with
a lease designed just for you. Every
Putnam Lease is written to provide
More than just custom-fit car covers,
California Car Cover is the home
of complete car care and automotive
lifestyle products. Offering the best in
car accessories, garage items, detailing
products, nostalgic collectibles, apparel
and more! Call 1-800-423-5525 or visit
Calcarcover.com for a free catalog.
Sports Car Market
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Carl Bomstead
eWatch
A Guarantee Comes Due
Christie’s paid millions to a seller when their Warhol artwork
didn’t meet a price guarantee
Thought
Carl’s Christie’s International, at their November 10, 2015, contemporary art sale, sold Andy Warhol’s 1962
quadruple portrait of Marilyn Monroe for $32 million — $36 million with Christie’s commission. All
sounds good — except for the fact that Christie’s had guaranteed the seller a minimum price, which
means the auction house has to cough up a few million dollars to make up the difference. Just goes to show that all
is not milk and honey in the high-end art world.
Here are a few interesting sales we found that are not quite as convoluted:
MANIFEST AUCTIONS
LOT 420—PDQ LICENSEPLATE
TOPPER. Number of
Bids: 17. SOLD AT: $600 plus
17% buyer’s premium. Date:
10/24/2015. PDQ was one of the
more obscure Los Angeles petroleum
marketers, and the Petrol
Pete Pelican was their catchy
logo. This is one of the more
desirable license-plate toppers,
and it is very difficult to find in
this condition. As such, it sold
for grown-up — but not silly —
money.
Date: 9/20/2015. California
first required license plates in
1905 — but did not issue them
until 1914. In the interim, the
Automobile Club of Southern
California issued porcelain plates
to their members in a couple of
variations. This one was known
as “Mickey Mouse” due to the
ears, and this particular one was
issued to Commander Ford of
Los Angeles in 1911. He drilled a
couple of extra mounting holes,
and a portion of the instructions
is still visible on the back of the
plate. A couple of months ago,
we featured the Dog Bone version,
which sold for about $800
less than this one. Both are desirable,
but this version usually
sells for a touch more.
be right at home in a garage full
of 356s.
EBAY #371441747039—
1950s FERRARI 500
MONDIAL 750 MONZA
INSTRUCTION MANUAL.
Number of Bids: 17. SOLD AT:
$1,505. Date: 9/27/2015. This 26page
Ferrari instruction manual
covered the 250, 500 and 750 and
was in both Italian and English.
It included two fold-out pages
with diagrams and was in decent
condition with minor edge wear.
A difficult piece to find — and
invaluable if you have the car in
your garage.
PORSCHE 550 SPYDER
OWNER’S MANUAL. Number
of Bids: 33. SOLD AT:
$2,107.33. Date: 10/13/2015.
The Porsche 550 Spyder was
immortalized as the car that
James Dean was driving in 1955
when he was killed on his way
to a race in Salinas, CA. This
44-page owner’s manual was in
English and was full of all kinds
of technical information, but the
photos of the 550 were missing
from the first page. Still, a very
cool piece of Porsche history.
EBAY #161826696741—
EBAY #371477841385—
EBAY #171935358760—
1911 CALIFORNIA
“MICKEY MOUSE” PORCELAIN
PRE-STATE-ISSUE
LICENSE PLATE. Number
of Bids: 15. SOLD AT: $2,827.
1960s PORSCHE SILK
SHOWROOM BANNER.
Number of Bids: 30. SOLD
AT: $1,575. Date: 11/8/2015.
This yellow silk banner with the
painted Porsche logo measured
28 inches by 42 inches and hung
on a wood rod. It was in very
acceptable condition and would
EBAY #371431247093—
ORIGINAL 1954–55
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170
1908 MINIATURE VANDERBILT
CUP TROPHY.
Number of Bids: 13. SOLD AT:
$1,991.66. Date: 9/21/2015. In
1908, George Robertson, driving
a Locomobile, was the first
American to win the Vanderbilt
Cup. At the awards banquet,
these miniature eggcup trophies
were presented to the participants.
It is not known how many
of these were given out, but they
show up every now and then and
tend to sell for what was paid
here. ♦
POSTMASTER
Send address changes to:
Sports Car Market
PO Box 4797, Portland, OR 97208
CPC IPM Sales Agreement No. 1296205
Sports Car Market
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