TABLE OF CONTENTS
Courtesy of Bentley Motors
48 Collecting Thoughts: Simon Kidston addresses Bentley’s plan to build “continuation” Blower models
Columns
20 Shifting Gears / Keith Martin
Bring a Trailer shakes and stirs up the collector-car world
42 Affordable Classic / Jeff Zurschmeide
Getting past the Lotus Europa’s shaky reputation and enjoying the ride
44 Collecting Thoughts / Philip Richter
Bring a Trailer is going corporate with Hearst Autos. Philip Richter breaks it all down
48 Collecting Thoughts / Simon Kidston
Bentley plans a dozen new “continuation” Bentley Blowers, but is profit tarnishing legacy?
52 Legal Files / John Draneas
When two Porsche 904s share the same chassis number, one has to be fake
54 Unconventional Wisdom / Donald Osborne
A grounded Donald Osborne finds joy in new roads — and in adventures close to a new home
56 American Car Collector / Jim Pickering
How pricing outliers can move a market
178 eWatch / Carl Bomstead
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout’s signed rookie card fetches $922,500
Features THE ROAD FORWARD
150 Roundtable
Are blue-chip collector cars a good long-term investment during these turbulent times?
Experts have their say
152 Driving With Elana / Elana Scherr
The 2020 McLaren GT offers speed and a bit more comfort
154 Double Take
Six BaT sales, two perspectives
158 Unlocking a Car / Paul Hardiman
When to pounce on — or run from — a 1968–71 Jaguar E-type Series II
160 Road Value / Paul Hardiman
What’s the most usable supercar, and what will it cost you?
162 Shootout
Pierre Hedary and Dean Laumbach pick a Mercedes-Benz for Publisher Martin
164 Reader Forum
What are your sleeper car picks for the future?
14 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Departments
26 Crossing the Block
28 Concours and Events: Molto Bella at Stan
Hywet, Lime Rock Historic Festival, Vail
Automotive Classic, Ironstone Concours
30 Contributors: Get to know SCM staffers
and writers
32 You Write, We Read: Donald Osborne and
car colors, the Road Forward, documenting
your car addiction, and car styling
34 Display Advertisers Index
36 Speaking Volumes:
The Ultimate Book of the Porsche 356
36 Neat Stuff: Cold morning leather and
garage wall color
78 Next Gen Market Moment / Chad Taylor
2004 Mercedes-Benz Brabus T12
80 Rising Sun: 1972/1996 Datsun 240Z,
1993 Honda Civic Si, 1992 Honda Accord DX
90 Buy/Sell/Hold: Carl Bomstead shares his
expertise
96 Market Moment / Mark Wigginton
1968 Ferves Ranger
128 On the Radar / Jeff Zurschmeide
1995 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III
166 Mystery Photo: “The map on the Porsche
shows the nearest available parking spot”
168 Showcase Gallery: Cars for sale
170 Resource Directory: Meet your car’s needs
Page 20
SHIFTING GEARS KEITH MARTIN
Bring a Trailer’s Big Step
Bring a Trailer is now part of the Hearst Empire. Let’s hope
corporate ownership doesn’t wipe away the special mojo
By contrast, the poor writing, misspellings and idiotic representa-
tions on eBay Motors listings can drive you to drink Two-Buck Chuck.
BaT encourages users to post comments. They filter out egregious
and idiotic ones; policing the BaT trolls must be a time-consuming
process.
I recently bought a 1971 S3 Jaguar coupe on BaT. The car was in
Georgia, and I did not have it inspected. I relied on the owner’s representation
and the comments of other BaT members to make my decision.
I paid $40,000, FOB Portland. With 23,000 verified-by-me original
miles, the Jag was better than expected, with original Primrose paint
and Biscuit interior. This was another BaT online-buying success story.
SOLD SOLD SOLD
On June 25, the Hearst Corporation announced that it had purchased
BaT. The online auction site is now a part of Hearst Autos, joining Car
and Driver, Road & Track and AutoWeek.
Our financial analyst, Philip Richter, has his take on the sale on p.
44.
Publisher Martin didn’t bring a trailer, but this is nevertheless where he met the
founder of a very important website
“T
here’s someone I’d like you to meet.”
That’s how Martin Swig introduced me to Randy Nonnenberg,
co-founder of Bring a Trailer.
We were in front of the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco,
where the cars for the California Mille were staged.
“Randy has created this great website called Bring a Trailer. He
finds interesting cars for sale on the Web and then makes comments
ranging from constructive to snarky about them,” Martin said.
I have always viewed Martin, along with Miles Collier, as my men-
tors. They both could be characterized as driving fools — who are also
deep thinkers when it came to collecting.
When Martin recommended something to me, it was worth a look.
It was. In some ways, the evaluation comments on Bring a Trailer
were similar to the auction reports in SCM (Randy mentioned he was
a big fan of the magazine). BaT picked interesting cars, provided some
educational — and entertaining — information and was not afraid to
call an asking price too high or low.
When BaT first started offering cars for sale, I jumped in. Randy
listed a Saab Sonnet III.
Randy’s description was complete and compelling, and I bought the
Saab with a keystroke. Alex drove it to a reunion of BaT users held as a
part of the Historic Races at Portland International Raceway.
I later used pre-auction BaT to sell a blue Mercedes 190 Ponton to
Ferrari collector Chris Gardner. Colin Comer bought a Land Rover 88
that I listed.
A curated, fun experience
I enjoyed watching the explosive, enthusiast-driven growth of BaT.
Their magic ingredient was, and is, curation. This is the complete opposite
of the other major collector-car online site, eBay Motors.
BaT is thoughtful about the cars they select, while eBay lets anyone
list anything. BaT takes responsibility for every description. The language
is reminiscent of a high-end auction catalog.
20 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
While financial terms were not disclosed, reportedly BaT had re-
cently turned down a $40m offer from a major auction company — so
we can assume the sale price was north of that.
Randy commented, “We have been receiving investor interest from
within the collector space since shortly after we launched auctions in
2014. We have weighed those options for years, never finding the right
fit.
“But the Hearst option is totally different, particularly now that we
are at 300-plus listings per week. Most car fans like me just associate
them with some magazines, but they own hundreds of companies. The
tech, operational and distribution capabilities they can provide our existing
team to push BaT forward cannot be matched in the collector-car
space.”
Hearst is a privately owned media company. In 2018 it reported
$11.4 billion in sales. CEO Steven Swartz said, “Now in our 132nd year,
a hallmark of this company has been an ability to embrace change…
and always looking to bring our skills to adjacent fields that we think
offer potential for new growth.”
I asked Randy when he first thought BaT might be a business rather
than a hobby.
“There were no business aspirations on day one. It was just a fun
creative outlet for my car fascination in between garage projects, and a
way to hang out with my co-founder and friend Gentry Underwood,” he
said. “It wasn’t until the BaT Community really started to grow around
it in 2008 and 2009 and people asked to list their cars on our site that
we knew it could be a business.”
For a mega-corporation like Hearst, the auction part of Bring a
Trailer is not so important. What they are really buying is an engaged
community of over 500,000 users with an attractive demographic.
There are challenges ahead. Hearst has already made its intention
known to spread the Hearst Autos brand across Bring a Trailer. Let’s
hope they do it with a deft touch, encouraging BaT to maintain the Elon
Musk-like streak of independence that makes it so attractive.
In just 13 years, BaT has shaken up and reshaped the collector-car
world to the benefit of all of us.
Their next chapter, and that of the collector-car community, is just
beginning. ♦
Page 26
CROSSING THE BLOCK CHAD TYSON IMAGES COURTESY OF THE RESPECTIVE AUCTION COMPANIES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED
ARTCURIAL
Where: Gibel, FRA
When: September 13
Web: www.artcurial.com
Featured cars:
• 1970 Aston Martin DBS V8 coupe
• 1955 Salmson 2300 S coupe
• 1966 Lamborghini 400GT 2+2
Star Car: 1935 Auburn Eight Supercharged Speedster at RM Auctions in Auburn, IN
During the novel coronavirus pandemic,
please ensure that you check dates, times
and locations of auctions, as they may have
changed since this was printed.
RM AUCTIONS
Where: Auburn, IN
When: September 3–6
Web: www.rmsothebys.com
Last year: 413/553 cars sold / $15.5m
Featured cars:
• Star Car: 1935 Auburn Eight Supercharged
Speedster
• 1961 Chrysler 300G convertible
• 1960 Epperly Indianapolis racer
WORLDWIDE AUCTIONEERS
Where: Auburn, IN
When: September 5
Web: www.worldwideauctioneers.com
Last year: 75/91 cars sold / $3.9m
Featured cars:
Stainless-steel Fords sold as one lot without reserve:
• 1936 Ford Deluxe sedan
• 1960 Ford Thunderbird 2-dr hard top
• 1967 Lincoln Continental convertible
BONHAMS
Where: Brussels, BEL
When: September 6
Web: www.bonhams.com
Featured cars:
• Star Car: 1928 Mercedes-Benz 630K Sports tourer
• 1964 Jaguar E-type Series I open two-seater
• 1999 Aston Martin V8 LWB Volante
MECUM
Where: Dallas, TX
When: September 9–12
Web: www.mecum.com
Last year: 713/1,073 cars sold / $22.4m
Featured cars:
• 1963 Chevrolet Corvette 327/340 Split-Window
coupe
• 1974 Ford Bronco
• 1968 Oldsmobile 442
BARRETT-JACKSON
Where: Las Vegas, NV
26 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Auction Calendar
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.
Email auction info to: chad.tyson@sportscarmarket.com.
SEPTEMBER
3–6—RM AUCTIONS
Auburn, IN
5—WORLDWIDE
AUCTIONEERS
Auburn, IN
6—BONHAMS
Brussels, BEL
9–12—MECUM
Dallas, TX
10–12—BARRETTJACKSON
Las Vegas, NV
12—BONHAMS
Chichester, U.K.
12—SPECIALTY AUTO
AUCTIONS
Loveland, CO
13—ARTCURIAL
Gibel, FRA
16—H&H
Online
18–19—SARATOGA
Saratoga Springs, NY
18–20—EG AUCTIONS
Red Deer, AB, CAN
19—CCA
Leamington Spa, U.K.
19—VANDERBRINK
New York Mills, MN
20—BONHAMS
Chéserex, CHE
22—BARONS
Esher, U.K.
25—TOM MACK
CLASSICS
Concord, NC
25–26—MECUM
Louisville, KY
26—BONHAMS MPH
Bicester, U.K.
26–27—VANDERBRINK
Carlisle, IA
When: September 10–12
Web: www.barrett-jackson.com
Last year: 678/678 cars sold / $33.8m
BONHAMS
Where: Chichester, U.K.
When: September 12
Web: www.bonhams.com
Last year: 73/105 cars sold / $11.3m
Featured cars:
• 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren coupe
• 1939 Lagonda V12 drophead coupe
• 1961 Emeryson 1.5 Formula One racer
SARATOGA MOTORCAR AUCTION
Where: Saratoga Springs, NY
When: September 18–19
Web: www.saratogaautoauction.org
Last year: 144/276 cars sold / $4m
Featured cars:
• 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429
• 1929 Packard Custom Eight Series 640 phaeton
• 1970 Porsche 914/6
BONHAMS
Where: Chéserex, CHE
When: September 20
Web: www.bonhams.com
Last year: 63/74 cars sold / $36.8m
MECUM
Where: Louisville, KY
When: September 25–26
Web: www.mecum.com
Last year: 271/373 cars sold / $5.2m ♦
Star Car: 1928
Mercedes-Benz
630K Sports tourer
at Bonhams’ sale in
Brussels, BEL
Page 28
CONCOURS & EVENTS SCM STAFF SEND NEWS AND EVENT LISTINGS TO INSIDELINE@SPORTSCARMARKET.COM
EDITOR’S NOTE:
September is usually one of the
busiest months of our year, but
the coronavirus pandemic has
forced many events to cancel
for 2020. Still, some events are
carrying on — with changes for
safety — and we’ve listed them
below. Remember to keep checking
event websites for updates
during this uncertain time. —
Chester Allen, Executive Editor
Molto Bella at Stan Hywet
The Eighth Annual Molto
Bella Auto Show brings 400
cars, including Ferraris and
Bugattis, to the elegant Stan
Hywet Hall and Gardens in
Akron, OH, on September 13.
Expect to see a lot of cool
cars, including muscle cars and
supercars.
Of course, keep tabs on this
date during this time of coronavirus.
For more information, visit
www.stanhywet.org.
Lime Rock Historic Festival
Organizers for the 38th
Historic Festival at Lime Rock
Park — in Litchfield County, CT
— promise that this September
3–7 event will crackle and roar
to life.
Event planners say they
will take all the needed steps
to keep everyone safe from the
coronavirus.
The schedule calls for:
• The Vintage Race Car
& Sports Car Parade on
September 3.
• Race Practice and
Qualifying on September 4.
• Racing on September 5. A
swapmeet also is scheduled.
• The Sunday in the Park
Concours d’Elegance and
Gathering of the Marques
on September 6.
• The final day of racing is
September 7.
For more information, visit
www.limerockhistorics.com.
The Ironstone Concours d’Elegance will be a one-day rally/tour format this year
Vail Automotive Classic
Carries On
The 11th Annual Vail
Automotive Classic still plans
on a fun schedule of events from
September 11 to 13, including a
Mountain Road Tour from Vail
to Steamboat Springs, a Cars &
Coffee and the Classic Car Show.
Visit www.vailautomotive-
classic.com for more information.
Nick Chappetta
Lime Rock Historic Festival
Dayton Concours
d’Elegance
The 14th Annual Dayton
Concours d’Elegance at
Carillon Park is still on track for
September 20 in Dayton, OH.
Featured classes included
Cars of the Roaring Twenties,
Mercedes-Benz Automobiles
Through 1973, Military Vehicles
and the 50th Anniversary Cars
of 1970.
The concours website states:
“Planning is well underway
for the 14th Dayton Concours
d’Elegance, scheduled for
September 19–20, 2020.
Nominations and registration
will open as soon as the ‘shelter
in place’ order is lifted, and
watch for more details and announcements
on our website and
Facebook page. For now, let’s
stay home, stay six feet apart and
stay safe.”
Visit www.daytonconcours.
com for more information.
Every Car Wins at
Ironstone 2020
The 24th Annual Ironstone
Concours d’Elegance is shifting
to a one-day rally/tour format on
September 26 to keep safe from
COVID-19.
Entrants will drive their cars
over a route in Murphys, CA.
The day will end with every
entrant driving their car over the
Ironstone stage to get a ribbon
and gift basket.
The concours is for registered
entries only.
Go to www.ironstonecon-
cours.org for more information. ♦
28 SEPTEMBER 2020 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
CSX2521 after its restoration
After I bought the car, I contacted him and asked him the question,
‘Why did you decide to paint the car black instead of returning it to
its original color?’ His answer to me was, ‘I don’t like green.’
Donald’s Color Madness
To the Editor:
I thoroughly enjoyed Donald
Osborne’s “Color Madness”
comments in the July 2020 issue
(“Unconventional Wisdom,” p.
42). I look forward to his sharing
more thoughts in a future
column.
I particularly enjoyed reading
about Donald’s search for the
color to paint his Lancia and
his dilemma on which criteria
would guide his choice. He was
clearly wrestling in a “gray”
area (no pun intended) of factors
to consider, and I think Donald
made an excellent color choice ...
and for the right reasons.
I hope Donald will share his
insights on the broader aspects
of style and color. Why do some
cars look great in certain colors
while others in the same color do
not? Can a color selection detract
from a good design, and the converse,
can a color be selected that
will make a marginal design look
better? What roles do design
elements such as trim and design
32 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
accents play in color selection?
Do automotive designers have
color in mind when they create
a design? Certainly, evolving
tastes in color and marketing
come into play, but is there not
more to it than that?
The multi-hued cars of the
mid-1950s seemed to be designed
to accommodate two- and threetoned
paint jobs, and to my eye
the colors seemed well integrated
with the design. Simply applying
bright colors with cute names
as was done some dozen years
was no more than a marketing
ploy that seemed not to consider
design at all. Today, manufacturers
seem to be avoiding color
altogether and offer vehicles
mostly in black, silver and
shades of gray and white. They
say fashions come and go, but
style remains. If this is true, why
does today’s style come predominantly
in monochrome?
I thoroughly enjoy Sports
Car Market and its well-written
articles, which are often so well
written that even if the topic does
Jim Farley on the day he purchased the car
not interest me, I end up reading
it anyway and learning something.
Keep up the good work!
— John Cardwell, Supply, NC
More Color Kudos
To the Editor:
I just finished reading Donald
Osborne’s intriguing column on
why certain people would choose
to paint their car a different color
than when it left the factory
(July 2020, “Unconventional
Wisdom,” p. 42). About 10 years
ago, I bought a 1965 Shelby
Cobra CSX2521.
It was owned for 35 years by
Bill Whitley, who raced it and
drove it on the East Coast. When
Whitley decided to sell the car,
Jim Farley, who is now COO of
the Ford Motor Company, bought
it. The car was completely original
and in need of a complete
restoration.
The original color was British
Racing Green, and Farley went
through the whole car, restored it
and painted it black.
After I bought the car, I
contacted him and asked him the
question, “Why did you decide
to paint the car black instead of
returning it to its original color?”
His answer to me was, “I
don’t like green.”
That’s as good an answer as
I ever heard. It was his car and
that’s how he wanted it.
Beauty is definitely in the
eye of the beholder. Keep those
thought-provoking articles coming!
— Gregg Blue, Maui, HI
The Road Forward
To the Editor:
I’m a relatively new sub-
scriber and love the magazine.
I especially liked the new “The
Road Forward” section this
month. Please keep this section
even when things return to “normal.”
I’d love to see the commentary
around Bring a Trailer
expanded to 10 pages! — Brad
Croy, via email
Keith Martin responds:
Thanks for your subscription
and your note, Brad! Stay tuned
for more.
Courtesy of Gregg Blue
Page 34
You Write We Read
Ad Index
Aerovault .......................................................... 141
AIG PC Global Services, Inc .......................... 129
Allard Motor Works LLC ................................ 113
Authentic Classics, LLC ................................. 114
Automotive Restorations Inc. .......................... 100
Avant Garde Collection
.................................... 98
Baldhead Cabinets ........................................... 157
Barrett-Jackson ................................................ 129
Bennett Law Office ......................................... 169
Beverly Hills Car Club .................................... 147
Bonhams / UK ................................................. 4-5
Branson Collector Car Auction
LIGHT-HAND DRIVE LARRY TREPEL
........................ 41
BridgePoint Risk Management ....................... 129
CarCapsule USA ............................................... 58
Cars Yeah ......................................................... 147
Cars, Inc. ........................................................... 57
Centerline Alfa Parts ....................................... 104
Charles Prince Classic Cars ............................ 105
Chattanooga Motorcar Festival ....................... 125
Chequered Flag International .......................... 115
Classic Auto Mall ............................................ 119
Classic Car Capital ........................................... 31
Classic Investments ......................................... 157
Collector Studio ............................................... 153
Copley Motorcars
............................................ 111
D. L. George Historic Motorcars .................... 117
Dobson Motorsport ......................................... 120
Don Mackey .................................................... 109
Driversource Houston LLC ............................. 8-9
Eberhard & Co. ................................................ 123
ETS Racing Fuels ............................................. 81
European Collectibles ..................................... 127
F40 Motorsports ............................................... 59
Fantasy Junction ........................................... 18-19
Fourintune Garage Inc ..................................... 143
GAA Classic Cars ............................................. 27
Gaswerks Garage ............................................. 143
Gooding & Company
....................................... 11
Grundy Insurance ............................................. 79
GT Motor Cars LLC ......................................... 99
Gullwing Motor Cars, Inc. .............................. 145
Hagerty Insurance Agency, Inc. ...................... 101
Hamann Classic Cars, LLC .............................. 89
Heacock Classic .............................................. 179
Hortons Books Limited ................................... 137
Hyman, LTD ..................................................... 38
Intercity Lines ................................................... 53
JC Taylor ........................................................... 82
JJ Best Banc & Co ........................................... 135
Kevin Kay Restorations ................................... 10
Kidston .............................................................. 13
La Macchina Molto Bella Auto Show ............. 37
Legendary Motorcar Company ....................... 143
Luxury Brokers International ....................... 16-17
Luxury Lease Partners, LLC ............................ 51
Macy’s Garage Ltd. ......................................... 118
Manns Restoration
............................................ 29
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center ........................ 33
Metron Garage .................................................. 95
Michael’s Motor Cars ....................................... 85
Miller’s Mercedes Parts, Inc ........................... 169
Monterey Touring Vehicles ............................. 161
Motor Classic & Competition Corp.
“Lot 190 was featured in the epic film ‘Crosley v Vespa’.”
Documenting Your
Addiction
To the Editor:
Great magazine, from a
longtime subscriber.
If anyone is looking for a fun
................ 83
Mouse Motors, LLC ........................................ 122
Northern Sky, Inc. ............................................. 91
Northwest European ........................................ 139
OSCA Owners Group ....................................... 47
Palm Beach Classics ......................................... 40
Palm Springs Exotic Car Auctions ................... 39
Paramount Automotive .................................... 133
Passport Transport ........................................... 103
Paul Russell and Company .............................. 141
POR-15 ............................................................. 70
Porsche Classic ................................................. 15
Private Garage. L.C. ..................................... 22-23
Putnam Leasing ............................................... 180
QuickSilver Exhausts Ltd. .............................. 107
Raleigh Classic Car Auctions ....................... 24-25
RM Sotheby’s .................................................. 6-7
RMD bvba ........................................................ 81
Ronald McDonald House ................................ 136
Saratoga Motorcar Auctions ............................ 121
SEMA ............................................................... 84
Sport and Specialty .......................................... 169
StreetWorks Exotics ......................................... 50
Symbolic International ..................................... 21
The Creative Workshop .................................... 43
The Old Racing Car Company, Inc. ................. 93
The Stable, Ltd. ................................................ 97
The Werk Shop ................................................ 134
Tony Labella Classic Cars ............................... 169
Torque Classic Cars
project while on lockdown, try
this: Make a list of every car you
have owned and find a photo of
it — either in old photo albums,
or if you can’t find a photo, go
online and search for the car, as
there are tons of photos of almost
every car.
Take the photo you have and
drop it into a file on your computer.
Put them in chronological
order by year. You can expand
the list with cars your folks
owned when you were growing
up — and the cars that you probably
bought for your kids. That
kind of makes them your cars
anyway.
You may think this is an easy
list to make, but trust me, it’s not.
I am 72 and have been into a
.......................................... 35
Trucks & Auto Auctions ................................... 71
Vermont Barns ................................................. 139
Vintage Car Law .............................................. 112
Vintage Car Works ........................................... 55
Vintage Motors of Sarasota ............................. 132
Vintage Rallies ................................................. 137
VintageAutoPosters.com ................................. 145
WeatherTech .................................................... 131
West Coast Classics, LLC ............................... 153
White Post Restorations .................................. 169
Worldwide Auctioneers .................................. 2-3
34 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
lot of cars. You will be amazed
at all of the cars you have had
— and, all the while, you’ll be
thinking, “Why did I ever sell
that car?”
When you go from sports
cars when you were in your 20s
to station wagons when the kids
came along — then back to fun
cars when they are off the payroll
— it’s quite a trip down memory
lane. Have fun. — Thomas
Vandyke, Waxhaw, NC
Executive Editor Chester
Allen responds: Thomas, thanks
for a fun idea! I know that his
project would keep Publisher
Martin awash in old photos for a
couple of weeks.
Sports-Car Styling
To the Editor:
I’m a longtime reader — keep
up the great work!
I was reading the article in
the July issue on the Ferrari 330
GTS (Ferrari Profile, p. 50), and I
had some observations.
I agree that modern Ferraris
look like any other modern supercar
and also agree that many
Enzo-era Ferraris are distinctive,
but I have a different opinion
about the 330 GTS and its sister
275 GTS.
Of course, beauty is com-
pletely subjective, but I find these
two cars particularly not distinctive,
and that is probably because
the Fiat 124 looks just like them
in a slightly smaller size! Of
course that is also a Pininfarina
design, but I just have to disagree
with Steve on this one!
From my youth, the more
wedge-shaped Ferraris are the
standouts, starting with the Dino.
The first time I saw a
Daytona, I thought it looked
like a Datsun Z car! Of course,
Datsun copied Ferrari (among
others), but some car makers
make their cars so unique that
others wouldn’t dare copy for
fear of the backlash from the
obvious styling rip-off!
Lamborghini has been good
at this feat, since you will never
see any car that you mistake for
a Countach or vice versa. Ditto
for the Diablo. And even a new
Aventador, even a half block
down the street, doesn’t look like
all the other new exotics.
Granted, I know it is harder
for car makers to differentiate
their designs with all the regulatory
boundaries they must work
within, but some still pull it off.
The 330 GTS is beautiful, but
only when you are educated and
know what you are looking at, in
my opinion, just as the Daytona
is. But to the average person,
many Ferraris, even the 330
GTS, can look like a common —
but still cool — car.
Keep up the great work, as
we are reading more about cars
with fewer car events to go to! —
Victor Holtorf, via email ♦
Page 36
SPEAKING VOLUMES MARK WIGGINTON
The Ultimate Book of the Porsche 356
by Brian Long, 256 pages, Veloce. $438.63 (or £356)
A
h, the Porsche 356. Obscure,
rarely seen and almost unknown
on these shores…oh, wait, I was
thinking about something else.
The 356 is as familiar as an old pair
of shoes; that is, if those shoes seem to
constantly climb in value for collectors,
be in high demand for enthusiasts and
are the ubiquitous darling of car events
everywhere.
Brian Long, with 80 books to his
name, published the first version of this
book way back in 1996, when it was
titled Porsche 356. That was followed by
the revised Book of the Porsche 356, and
now The Ultimate Book of the Porsche
356.
And what makes this “ultimate,” you
ask? Much like the most expensive collectible Porsche 356s, it’s about fit
and finish, plus scarcity, plus provenance.
There will only be 356 copies of Ultimate (scarcity, check), it’s
bound in a lovely, soft white leather (fit and finish, check) and it has
updated text and a hand-worked polish on the first and second editions
(provenance, check). Oh, and it sells for Porsche money: £356! Yes, it
will sell for 356 British quid — if you’re buying it in Britain.
And as a Porsche buff — maybe even Porsche owner — that trifecta
is kind of like catnip, isn’t it? They will sell out, so act now; operators
are standing by.
Between the covers, in a crowded marketplace absolutely full of
books about anything and everything Porsche, the more granular and
detailed the better, “ultimate” is probably a wee bit of a stretch as a title
and descriptor.
It’s certainly Long’s ultimate ver-
sion, as he heavily revised the book
again for this third edition, removing
some errors, adding more photos,
and greatly expanding the text as
well as the tables full of data.
So, if you want to go “ultimate,”
come for the spiffy leather-bound
edition, but stay for the competitively
exhaustive look at the foundations of
all things Porsche.
PROVENANCE:
Through three editions, Brian
Long has accumulated the sources
and files to create a fully realized
history of the Porsche 356.
FIT AND FINISH:
The design is quite charming, and a good showcase for more than
500 nicely reproduced color images, as well as lots of black and white,
and the text and photo captions are well presented.
DRIVABILITY:
Long has a folksy, easy-to-read style that helps make the journey
through Ultimate a lazy walk in the country with a friend, a friend who
knows waaaay too much about the Porsche 356 and wants to tell you
simply everything, no matter how many times you try to change the
subject. It’s not annoying so much as exhausting. But then I’m not the
kind of guy who wants to learn about the early history of anything for
the 10th time. And therein lies the issue: There are plenty of solid 356
books, some glossier, some more definitive, some just filling the shelves
like slightly different variations of the same ingredients at Taco Bell.
But this one comes in leather, right?
NEAT STUFF JIM PICKERING
Luxury in Leather
Having the right
car for any event is
only half the battle.
You need to look
the part, too — and
that becomes more
complex when we’re
talking about open
cars and anything
other than a perfectly
sunny 80-degree day.
Heinz Bauer brings both function and style together
in its high-end leather jackets, available in a variety
of designs to suit your taste — or your car. This
family-owned company got its start making highquality
leather jackets in the early 1960s, which
they then developed into a unique line of innovative
cabriolet jackets and convertible jackets, all crafted
in Germany. Want the best? You’re looking at it.
Prices vary by design, but the Sebring jacket is
priced at $2,463. www.heinzbauer.com
36 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Passion in Paint
Kelly Telfer has a long history in both motorsports and art, and his work revolves around
where those two endeavors converge. Perspective, form, light and color combine here to
highlight each car in a nearly three-dimensional way, which reflects a passion for the greats,
from Porsche through Ferrari and beyond. If you’re looking for some color to highlight the
walls of your garage — or, who are we kidding, your living room — check out his original
paintings and prints at www.telferdesign.com. Options start at $50 for a limited-edition print
and climb from there, with original paintings from $4,000 on up. ♦
Page 42
AFFORDABLE CLASSIC 1966–75 LOTUS EUROPA
The Pleasure and the Pain
The Europa remains one of the best ways to get into a classic Lotus at a
reasonable price point
by Jeff Zurschmeide
Lotus Europa, halo or horror? You be the judge
enthusiasts can tolerate.
The car’s reputation has kept prices low, but the Europa also has a
Y
well-deserved following of faithful owners, each with their own good
reasons to keep that faith.
“It will out-handle just about anything on the road, even on crappy
tires,” said Europa maven Daren Stone. “It’s also got credibility. You
tell a car person you have a Europa and they know you are a car guy of
the highest order.”
“It’s light, and it’s nimble,” said owner Jerry Boone. “I’ve owned
competition cars that don’t handle as well. [But] it isn’t a car for the
inattentive. It is a dance partner that expects as much from the driver as
the driver expects from it. Do your part and the rewards are immeasurable.”
Surpassing the Elan
The Europa was conceived as an upgraded replacement for the
well-loved Lotus Elan. Following Colin Chapman’s dictum of simplifying
and adding lightness, the Europa was designed around a
simple stamped-steel backbone with a T crossmember at the front and
a Y-shaped split in the rear. An independent coil-over suspension on
all wheels and a fiberglass body brought the Europa Series 1 off the
production line at just 1,350 pounds.
The first driveline was a 1.5-liter Renault engine rated at 82 horse-
42 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
ou don’t have to dig around very much to find horror stories
about the Lotus Europa. Colin Chapman’s strange mid-engine
“bread van” design is known for major structural problems,
dodgy fiberglass and the kind of mechanical troubles only Lotus
power for the Europeans and a different 80-hp Renault engine for
America starting in 1969. The engine was mated to its design-partner
transaxle, a 4-speed manual unit designed to drive the front wheels of
the Renault 16. Lotus rotated the engine and transaxle to drive the rear
wheels and put the engine just behind the driver’s compartment.
The first Europas recorded 0–60-mph times in the mid-nine-second
range. The Series 2 Europa was the first to be officially exported to
America (and the first to be sold at home in the U.K.). Zero-to-60-mph
times were about 9.6 seconds for that version.
In 1971, Lotus switched to the Lotus-Ford Twin Cam engine, rated
at 113 horsepower in the American export version, and a 5-speed transmission
followed in 1973. The Twin-Cam Europa brought the 0–60mph
time down to the mid-six-second range.
That body, though
The bodywork has always been the controversial point about the
Europa. In a sense, the form followed the function, which has always
been a Lotus hallmark. With the mid-engine design — and perhaps a
touch of Raul Julia’s famous “What’s-a behind me is not important”
driving attitude from the “Gumball Rally” movie — the rear window
is just four inches tall and the peripheral rear views are blocked by
aerodynamic fins slicing back from the roof.
Lotus addressed that a little bit by cutting down the “sails,” as
they were called, but there was only so much good that was going to
do. The real issue with the body is maintenance. The fiberglass bodies
of the Series 1 cars were glued to the steel backbone. Series 2-andlater
cars bolted the body in place, which is better for repair today.
Page 43
The backbones tend to rust, as
any steel stamping from that
era is prone to do. Specifically,
the stamped-sheet-metal frame
often fractures at the junction
of the backbone and front crossmember.
You can fix it, but you
have to remove the entire body
to gain access to it.
Another failure point
is
DETAILS
Years produced: 1966–75
Price when new: $5,000
Number produced: 9,230
Current SCM Median Valuation: $27,000
Pros: Amazing handling, cheap entry price and
tons of fun to drive
Cons: Rust and body issues can eat away the joy
of the drive
the door hinges. The doors are
long and heavy, and put a lot
of stress on the body. This is
a particular problem because
Americans like to use the doors
to lift themselves out of any low
car. And, well, none of us are
getting any younger, right?
The bottom line on the Europa body is easy: Just take a look at the
Best place to drive one: On any twisty, two-lane
road — California State Route 1 to Big Sur
in Monterey County comes to mind
Worst place to drive one: On a big, modern
freeway — or into a body shop for major work
A typical owner is: Dizzy with joy after that long
drive down the coastline — and is even dizzier
after seeing the bill from the body shop
car. Do you think it’s bizarre and ugly, or do you see the most elegant
shooting-brake design ever conceived and executed in the history of the
automobile? There’s your answer.
So, why buy a Europa?
The one thing every Europa owner will tell you is that driving one is
a special experience. Brilliant handling made Lotus a legendary sportscar
maker, and the Europa is a prime example of that virtue.
“Living with a Europa is a series of small compromises offset by that
driving experience,” Stone said. “Its handling borders on telepathic, so
good that only a hack driver could get one out of shape.”
But another reason to choose a Europa is affordability.
“These cars spent years drifting down to the bottom of the sports-
car food chain, until much of the Europa production was relegated to
back porches, under oak trees or hiding under tattered tarps,” Boone
said. “There was a point, roughly a decade ago, when a needy runner
could be purchased for under $10,000, with project cars going for a few
grand to just-take-it-away prices. Today good ones are being marketed
in the low-$20,000 range, and exceptional ones have gone for half again
that much.”
A drive into SCM’s Platinum Auction Database shows that it’s
still quite possible to obtain a good Lotus Europa Twin Cam for less
than $20,000 (SCM# 6922167). With only 9,230 Europa examples ever
made, that’s an attractive ticket price to gain entry into an exclusive
fraternity. ♦
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 43
Page 44
COLLECTING THOUGHTS HEARST AUTOS BUYS BRING A TRAILER
CTING THOUGHTS HEARST AUTOS BUYS BRING A TRAILER
BRING
BRING a
TOWER
Bring a Trailer’s Biggest Sale
Did Hearst buy first-mover BaT at the top of the market,
or was this a brilliant strategic move?
by Philip Richter
The Hearst Tower
in New York City
Page 45
“Bring a Trailer has set the bar for building a community around a passion point.
What Randy and (co-founder) Gentry (Underwood) have developed is truly special, and what
they deliver to their audience is so much more than transactional. They’ve built a family,
developed trust and have become an invaluable part of the automotive landscape.”
— Matt Sanchez, Hearst Autos CEO
I
t is not all that surprising that the online collector-car auction site
Bring a Trailer sold. But the buyer, Hearst Autos, does come as a
surprise.
BaT has differentiated itself from the traditional terrestrial-based
auction houses with a curated approach that is 100% online. BaT invented
and perfected the secret sauce of online collector-car auctions. With all
the traditional auction houses scrambling to move online because of
COVID-19 lockdowns and shutdowns, it is curious that Hearst walked
away with the pioneering online auction icon.
Hearst Magazines President Troy Young stated the logic behind the
transaction: “At its core, Bring a Trailer is about curation, which is what
our brands have always been about.”
In exclusive discussions with Hearst Autos CEO Matt Sanchez and
BaT co-Founder Randy Nonnenberg, SCM was able to get an inside perspective
on the details and rationale behind Hearst’s acquisition of BaT.
The unique BaT model
BaT has a catchy name that is easy to remember. The experience is
fun and addictive. A friendly daily email prompts subscribers about cars
coming up for auction that day.
BaT makes the process of selling and buying cars easy, pleasurable
and engaging. BaT’s curated approach gives the website strict control of
the quality of items and content.
Consistent and well-written detailed summaries accompany each
item, and this helps avoid the description chaos that occurs in classified
ads and eBay.
A $4,500 AMC Pacer description is in the same familiar structure
and tone as a $100,000 Porsche 911 — every car is considered important
and equal on BaT.
Bidders, general subscribers and followers can actively participate in
auction commentary on any item — one does not need to buy a car to
feel the thrill of an auction. This positive interactive feedback loop drives
transparency and encourages even more conversations.
Periodically, the site also lists automobilia and parts, such as Fuchs
wheels, rare toolkits, manuals, car luggage and even oddball things like
La Scuderia Ferrari magazines from the 1930s. BaT provides endless
discussion content — and generates a lot of valuable data that Hearst can
leverage.
BaT also has a self-policing mechanism built-in, as buyers and sellers
are kept in check by a growing base of (mostly) informed participants.
On BaT, everyone is heavily reliant on his or her reputation. Like eBay,
misrepresented items often get called out. There are also consequences
for buyers or sellers who do not deliver on their obligations.
It is not unprecedented to see a user permanently banished from BaT.
Thriving in the COVID-19 world
From an investment and market point of view, Hearst chose a special
moment in time to gobble up BaT. While the world as we know it ended
with COVID-19, Bring a Trailer witnessed a surge of user activity because
of “shelter in place” mandates. With time to burn, collector enthusiasts
quarantining at home found BaT an entertaining way to pass the time.
BaT recently released a market snapshot that disclosed snippets of
user activity for the first two weeks of April. Note: This data may be
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 45
overly positive, given that it was taken amid the COVID-19 lockdowns,
which represented a surge of activity on BaT.
If we annualize BaT’s numbers, they look like the following:
• Total number of bids: 422,890
• Value of lots sold: $352,871,194
• New users: 196,898
• Average auction views: 378,352
• Average auction watchers: 20,410
Note: BaT auctions do not open or close on weekends.
BaT fees are straightforward. Sellers pay a $99 listing fee with an
option to add Plus photo service for an additional $250. The buyer pays
a 5% fee on top of the final sales price to BaT, with a minimum of $250
and a cap of $5,000.
Hearst and BaT would not disclose the terms of the sale. Creating a
model and putting a potential multiple and value on this transaction is
complex and challenging without more precise data. One could do an
accounting of auction results over the past year, but that deep-dive project
exceeded my deadline. Regardless of the lack of precise data, one could
easily get to some pretty tall numbers — even factoring in execution risk
and conservative growth for 2021.
Every day, more and more six-figure sales are occurring on BaT —
and each of those sales is $5,099 in BaT’s pocket.
Even the sale of a $4,600 Ford Pinto yields a total fee to BaT of $349
— $99 (seller fee) and $250 (buyer fee).
If we perform basic math with conservative assumptions, it’s pretty
tough to see BaT doing less than $5 million in revenue last year. It’s easy
to get to substantially higher revenue assumptions.
Page 46
COLLECTING THOUGHTS HEARST AUTOS BUYS BRING A TRAILER
Things get even more interesting when you imagine what future
growth could look like with Hearst’s support and all the resources they
bring to the table. There is a wide range of unknowable outcomes here,
but very conservatively, BaT could have sold for at least $50 million — I
believe the actual price was likely substantially higher.
Did Hearst buy first-mover BaT at the top of the market, or was this
a brilliant strategic move? Time will tell, but history may not be kind to
the big traditional auction houses for being reactive and not acquiring
this unique asset.
Why did Hearst buy?
In our conversations with Hearst Autos CEO Matt Sanchez and BaT
co-founder Randy Nonnenberg, we got a glimpse into their mutual enthusiasm
about the future of the BaT and Hearst tie-up.
“The biggest thing that set BaT apart is its community. The richness
of comments in every auction,” Sanchez said.
It appears that Hearst has been “hanging around the hoop” for quite
some time, as this deal has been years in the making.
Hearst acquired BaT because they see it as a powerful community
with great entertainment value. From an entertainment perspective, BaT
is not dissimilar from a digital Barrett-Jackson. The curated BaT marketplace
closely aligns with Hearst’s goal of providing richer content and
closer engagement with car enthusiasts.
The fact that listings are curated, qualified and validated by users was
a powerful determinant in their decision to acquire BaT.
Hearst has a claimed track record of buying unique assets and taking
a long view.
During our call, Sanchez pointed out that their corporate DNA is to sup-
port entrepreneurs, founders and management while leaving them alone.
While Hearst has a goal to take BaT to the next level, they also have a
“Do no harm” mantra.
To improve and scale BaT without ruining it will be tricky. It will
require implementing significant technological investments and carefully
scaling operations.
Hearst thinks they can successfully connect their legacy audience,
assets, and content to the BaT environment. For example, having access
to all the archival reviews of cars in old back issues of Road & Track and
Car and Driver could be added to BaT auctions.
This sale, combined with COVID-19, will supercharge interest in the
growing online collector-car auction world.
The major traditional auction houses have had to quickly shift online
because of the COVID-19 cancellation of major venues, such as Monterey
Car Week and Pebble Beach.
With this raging competitive dynamic, BaT is at risk and could
become the MySpace of the online collector-car auction sites with a
Facebook soon to come.
There is no doubt there will be several new online-car-auction com-
petitors coming out of the woodwork. But the investment from Hearst —
and their balance-sheet strength and technological resources — should
give BaT a leg up in this competitive segment.
Nonnenberg pointed out that not doing a deal with a partner like
Hearst was also a risk for their business.
Buying a new audience
With BaT, Hearst has purchased a growing community of more than
415,000 users and more than 175,000 registered bidders.
Along with the purchase, Hearst gets an ongoing stream of user-gen-
erated content with very high replay value — people keep coming back to
the site to browse, buy, and comment. BaT’s audience is exploding, while
subscriptions for traditional Hearst publications such as Car and Driver
and Road & Track are in free fall.
Besides the obvious advertising revenue opportunities, Hearst will
have to find ways to leverage BaT’s potential synergies with their declining
existing legacy magazines.
Supercharging BaT — or wrecking it?
BaT is very savvy about taking care of repeat sellers who bring them
consistently good items.
For the average person, it’s hard to get a car listed on BaT. Reliable
sources indicate that BaT is turning away a lot of business. Hearst’s resources
could help BaT either create an alternative site or greatly increase
their sales volume. One credible BaT seller tells me that 90% of all cars
brought to BaT get turned away.
In the future, BaT could raise prices and not have a cap at $5,000 for
auction fees. This week, a 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 sold on BaT
for $990,000. Big-ticket cars are now regularly selling on BaT. Carefully
changing the fee structure could drive a lot more revenue in the future.
The downside is that this deal runs the risk of extinguishing the BaT
magic by saturating it in Hearst content, Hearst revenue demands and
Hearst culture. Hopefully, Hearst will not do to BaT what GM did to
Saab.
Based on our conversations with management at both Hearst and BaT,
that outcome seems unlikely given their “do no harm” mantra — and
what appears to be a very positive working partnership. Existing management
is going to stay at BaT.
Hearst may bring a different perspective and much-needed techno-
logical expertise that could help them continue to innovate and take BaT
to new heights.
“It’s an incredible business,” Sanchez said. “This deal allows Hearst
to get closer to the way people are really engaging in their passions.”
If managed right, Hearst’s acquisition of BaT could help benefit the
entire industry by bringing better services, more technology and morerobust
research to buyers and sellers alike. ♦
With BaT, Hearst has purchased a growing community of
more than 415,000 users and more than 175,000
registered bidders.
46 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 48
COLLECTING THOUGHTS BENTLEY’S BLOWER CONTINUATION
Factory Fakes and Why They Matter
Bentley is joining the Continuation Cars craze with 12 replica Blowers,
but is something being lost in the rush for easy money?
by Simon Kidston
I
n September of last year, Bentley announced that it would give “its
most revered pre-war race car… a new lease of life in a stunning
re-creation.” Only 12 new Blowers would be built, “each identical
to the original — one for every race the original Team Blowers
entered.”
The Crewe luxury-car maker, owned since 1998 by Volkswagen
AG, is a jewel in the German conglomerate’s crown and a fine example
of British motoring heritage and engineering excellence, even though
— whisper it — much of the content is designed and assembled outside
our proud island.
Like its competitors, sales at Bentley have plateaued in recent years,
but the core business remains sound. To many, the Continental GT is
the fastest, most practical supercar money can buy. It also bears the
wings of the immortal Bentley badge made famous by Captain Woolf
“Babe” Barnato, Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin, my uncle, Commander Glen
Kidston, and the other Bentley Boys of the Roaring Twenties — the Le
Mans winners, World War I veterans, legendary night-club habitués
and daredevils of the day.
Bentley is the latest in a line of manufacturers — Aston Martin
and Jaguar built the bandwagon — to launch a series of “Continuation
Cars,” although, in this instance, the most casually informed vintagecar
buff would know that the Blower (nicknamed for its supercharger)
was an unofficial creation from the mind of Tim Birkin funded by a
wealthy female racehorse owner. The car was considered a “perversion”
by W.O. Bentley himself.
Plundering the Greatest Hits catalog
Profitable Ferrari has taken an aggressive stance against replicas
of its cars made by others, so even their Olympic-level PR department
might have difficulty if they started reproducing their own. Why
bother? They’re successfully churning out limited-edition hypercars to
48 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
One of the original Bentley Boys and uncle of the author, Glen Kidston (left)
with his co-driver in a 1929 non-blower Bentley 4½ Litre after the 1929 24
Hours of Le Mans, in which they finished 2nd overall
Courtesy of Bentley Motors
“our best clients” — those who’ve already ponied up many $100ks for
lesser models — with the occasional special commission for someone
like Eric Clapton at a price only a multi-platinum rock star could afford.
Jaguar and Aston Martin, shakier in the general market, saw the
opportunity of plundering their Greatest Hits catalog for a quick rush of
sizable deposits on multimillion-dollar replicas outsourced to specialist
companies in the U.K.
Courtesy of Simon Kidston
Page 49
Parts mold-formed in aluminum using modern, low-run production
methods, with engines built by best-in-the-business specialists such as
RS Williams (Aston DB4 GT, Zagato and “007” DB5) and Crosthwaite
& Gardiner (Jaguar Lightweight “E,” D-type and XKSS), the contract
small print warns that the cars are for display or track use only.
These replicas would never pass modern safety standards, are not
road legal and they are mostly just assembled, painted and trimmed in
manufacturers’ newly formed heritage departments.
Over the past 10 years, the historic-motor-racing world has
increasingly become resigned to replicas. A recent newcomer to the
scene was shocked when, after enjoying a day’s racing, he was told that
most of the cars on the grid were copies, with many modern components.
“I feel like I’ve just visited a museum and been told the paintings
I’ve admired are actually fakes,” he said.
Owners of original GT40s, Lola T70s, Shelby Cobras and now even
Ferrari 250 SWBs admit there is little point in risking an original car
against modern hot rods costing a fraction of the value.
A plea for reality and history
Perhaps the latest run of “authentic re-creations” by Bentley really
is a step too far, and people in our hobby who care about originality and
history should finally speak out.
Pioneering car collector and tastemaker Ralph Lauren, whose
appreciation of heritage needs no introduction, thinks so. Lauren began
rallying other collectors early in January to write to Bentley CEO and
chairman Adrian Hallmark to protest the creation of these replicas.
Bentley was respectfully urged not to “squander time, funding,
energy and the Bentley brand’s reputation” on these cars, as that “would
serve only to dilute that special admiration and awe that can only come
from viewing and embracing the genuine article.”
Mr. Hallmark replied that he would “remain open minded and
ready to talk,” but the project appears well underway already. Both he
and the consultants behind it at Bentley, perhaps unsurprisingly, were
previously employed at Jaguar.
You might ask, why does any of this matter? It’s not about wealthy
collectors protecting their investment.
After all, the people who have owned and cherished these cars since
they became old and obsolete are the ones who effectively upheld the
brand’s heritage long after the factory warranty expired — and the
company had lost any interest in the cars.
Legendary racer, restorer and enthusiast Phil Hill was one such
Blower owner. What would he think of these replicas? I asked his son
(and Pebble Beach emcee) Derek Hill.
“My father was a purist in every sense of the word when it came to
collecting cars,” Derek Hill said. “Of course, the Blower Bentley was in
a league of its own. [I remember] the thrill he would get, and myself at
the young age I was, when he would take it up to over 100 mph, yelling
over to me to look at the speedometer over the noise of the wind and
engine howling. He was enthralled with every aspect of that car.
“What would he have thought of a replica Blower? I can imagine
him wincing now…However, he also approached things empirically,
and if a modern-day replica endorsed and built by the factory was
of a superior build quality to the original and the modernity didn’t
reveal itself too obviously, I could see him being more than pleasantly
surprised, especially if it didn’t scream fake… Not that he would want
to own anything like that...”
Someone else with vintage Bentleys in his blood is London-based
dealer Gregor Fisken, who grew up on the back seat of the family Speed
Six and has raced and sold them all of his adult life.
“I have the same opinion about this project as with Jaguar making
their lightweight E-types and D-type copies,” Fisken said. “A car made
in 2020, even endorsed by the manufacturer, will never be the real deal.
Scanning an original car to make a facsimile does not involve using the
same construction processes that the factory would have in 1930, and as
such, they end up as something of a pastiche of the real thing.”
No market verdict — yet
So far very few “continuations” of any brand have been exposed to
the public resale stage — probably to manufacturers’ relief. Three “asnew”
examples — in fact, they really are new — are coming up as part
of a seized fraudster’s collection at RM Sotheby’s Elkhart Collection
Auction this October 23–24. The modern replica cars on RM Sotheby’s
docket are a Jaguar D-type, XKSS and an E-type Lightweight.
How they fare will give anyone else tempted to follow the same path
(dabbling with Continuations, not fraud) plenty to consider.
Where will it end?
Is no classic safe from being copied by whomever now owns the
rights to the brand name? Who will be able to tell fake and real apart in
100 years? And does anyone really believe this is a democratic effort,
so that more enthusiasts can enjoy the ownership experience?
The latter is the nub of the matter; specious “we always intended
to complete an extra X number of cars” justifications are a marketing
department’s ploy to avoid using the “replica” word, but
it’s now
descended to random numbers (a dozen in this case) of a Bentley never
built by the factory in the first place.
It’s a subject that raises strong feelings, but with an ever-greater
number of manufacturers looking to improve their profits and get a foot
in the glamorous classic-car market, this debate has a long way to run. ♦
Is no classic safe from being copied by whomever now owns the rights to the brand name? Who will be able to
tell fake and real apart in 100 years?
Courtesy of Bentley Motors
Page 52
LEGAL FILES JOHN DRANEAS
There Can Be Only One
If two Porsche 904s share the same chassis number, one is fake. An international
team of lawyers took the case
• Suttles brought the 904 to North Carolina, titled it as a street car,
crashed it badly in a street accident, and then parked it in his garage.
• Over time, Suttles sold some parts off the car, including the engine
and transmission.
• After Suttles’ death, the 904 was sold “by a judge of Probate” to Ken
Allison, for which documentation was available.
• An original Certificate of Authenticity from Porsche is available.
• The 904 offered by Luehn was “well known as a counterfeit” within
the European Porsche racing industry.
• Although Luehn’s ad states that original documents that prove the
authenticity of the 904 are available, they really aren’t.
G
erman collector “Dieter” was intrigued when he spotted an
Internet ad offering Porsche 904 GTS chassis 904054 for sale.
“That’s odd,” he thought. “That’s the same chassis number
of my 904 GTS that is sitting in my garage.”
The ad had been posted by TPE Ltd., a Japanese collector-car dealer
operated by Akihiro Orimoto. The 904 GTS was owned by the Estate of
Ken Allison from Lexington, KY.
That prompted a call to Dieter’s legal counsel, Damen Bennion, part-
ner-in-charge of the collector-car practice at London’s Goodman Derrick
LLP. Since the 904 was located in the United States and any legal action
would occur in Kentucky, our firm was brought in as co-counsel.
Dieter had acquired his 904 GTS several years ago through Jan B.
Luehn, a German collector race-car broker. The 904 was fully numbers
matching, and it came with extensive documentation of its history and
provenance including:
• The original 1969 sales invoice for the first sale to Gunther Selbach.
• Records of a number of races in which the 904 competed.
• Original registration documents from the earliest days onward.
• Numerous photographs of 904054 in all of its various color combinations
— original silver, brown, red, and blue and white.
• Paint chips that coordinated with the changing color scheme, in
order.
• Extensive correspondence and service records.
• Although Selbach had changed the engine in the 904, the original
904 engine had been acquired by Luehn.
The ownership history went from Selbach, to Torsten Andersson, to
Leif Hansen, to Boo Brasta, to Sven Andersson, and finally to Claus
Eliasson, who kept the 904 for 44 years.
Sleuthing on his own
Dieter is an action-oriented guy, and he decided to just give Orimoto
a call and find out what was going on. Dieter didn’t mention he owned a
904. He instead posed as an interested buyer of the car Orimoto offered
for sale. He also mentioned the car that had been sold by Luehn and
asked if it was the same car. Dieter was totally convincing, as he elicited
a lengthy and detailed response from Orimoto:
• Orimoto’s car was owned by the Estate of Ken Allison.
• The 904 was originally sold to Gunther Selbach, who raced the car
successfully.
• Selbach’s original German registration was available.
• When Selbach decided to switch to racing “a faster Ford Mustang,”
he sold the 904 to Roger Dale Suttles, a U.S. military officer stationed
in Germany.
52 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
• The photos of the Luehn 904 clearly show newly embossed numbers.
So, two law firms an ocean and a continent apart formed a legal team
instructed to force the Allison Estate to stop claiming their car is 904054.
We rounded out the team by retaining an experienced investigator and
went to work. We decided that my litigation partner, Brooks Cooper,
would draft a complaint for filing in Federal District Court but, before
filing it, make contact with the Allison Estate and see if they wanted to
resolve this without litigation. The rest of us focused on the research.
Court records
The first inquiry was to request copies of all documents filed in the
Allison probate case from the Kentucky probate court. Nothing of much
use came of that.
Next, we requested copies of the probate file in the Suttles Estate.
Suttles died in 1990 and left an estate of just over $18,300. The asset of
interest to us was $500 of proceeds from the “Sale of Porsche (inoperable).”
His mother had served as the personal representative, but she and
the attorney who handled the probate had both died since, so we couldn’t
contact them for more information.
We knew that Orimoto was wrong when he told Dieter that the 904
was sold by the probate judge. The file confirmed that probate in North
Carolina is no different than elsewhere — Mrs. Suttles sold the Porsche
and simply reported the sale to the court in the final legal filings.
Friends and family
I contacted SCM Contributor Prescott Kelly, who knew the Allison
car well. He reported that it was well-known in Porsche circles that
Allison was building a replica 904 from scratch. He was astounded that
Allison or anyone would ever claim the car was authentic.
We determined that Suttles’ final military rank was SP4 — a rela-
tively low enlisted rank, so he was not an officer as Orimoto had said.
That meant that he could not have afforded a 904 in 1972, but he could
probably have purchased a 356.
Our investigator had a tough time finding Suttles’ friends and family,
who could be of assistance. The only useful connection was to Suttles’
nephew. The nephew wasn’t a car guy, but he recalled his uncle having
brought home a very cool Porsche. He had no idea what model it was, so
we showed him stock photos of a 356 and a 904.
He immediately said, “That’s it,” pointing to the 356. “My uncle gave
me one of the hubcaps and I made a clock out of it. I still have it!”
More information from Allison
Meanwhile, Cooper had the complaint ready and sent a demand letter
to the attorney representing Mrs. Allison, the personal representative of
Page 53
the Allison Estate. That prompted a response from a California attorney
who had been newly engaged to defend our claim. He sent us the North
Carolina title to establish the Allison ownership.
The title was odd. It was a very poor-quality copy, suggesting it may
have not been made from the original. It misspelled Suttles’ name as
“Settles.” It identified the make of car as Porsche, but there was no model
number given. There was a “C” in the style box.
But it was the reverse side that raised the most concern. The first
section, releasing the seller’s interest and identifying the buyer, was all
typed. It named Allison as the buyer, but it did not name the seller. The
seller’s signature was missing. Instead, “See — Power of Attorney” was
handwritten on that line, and the seller’s address was typed in with the
same typewriter. We asked for the power of attorney and were given
a copy of Mrs. Suttles’ proof of court appointment, which was not the
same thing at all. The typed date — 3/28/90 — matched the Allison story.
The next section, “First Re-Assignment of Title by Registered Dealer,”
was filled in with the same typewriter, and essentially had Allison selling
the car to himself on the same exact day. It was signed by Allison.
However, the “reassignment” to himself made absolutely no sense.
Allison never titled the 904 in Kentucky, as required under Kentucky
law. When asked why, the estate’s attorney claimed that Allison didn’t
want to incur the sales tax. We all know that story, but it didn’t make any
sense here, as he only paid $500 for the car.
We also learned that the 904 had been listed for sale with Heinz
Heinrich, with whom Allison had a relationship before he died. Heinrich
owns the 904 Store, claims to have handled “over 41 Porsche 904
GTS sales,” and claims to be “The expert on the Porsche 904 GTS…”
Heinrich subcontracted the listing to Orimoto. That, of course, raised
more concerns. Why would the expert on 904s subcontract this car to a
Japanese dealer if it was an authentic car?
The estate pressed the significance of the Porsche Certificate of
Authenticity, but that was meaningless. As all Porsche owners know, the
CoA says nothing about the current condition of the car, and it does not
say anything about ownership.
The attorney also pressed that Porsche had recognized Allison as the
owner of 904054. Allison had contacted the factory and explained that he
was restoring 904054 and needed a copy of the official blueprints for the
904 frame. Satisfied that Allison owned 904054, Porsche provided him
with a copy of the blueprints. However, on close inspection, it appeared
that Porsche based its conclusion on the North Carolina title.
North Carolina DMV
We had learned that one can pay $13 to the North Carolina DMV and
get a complete copy of the title history of any car titled in North Carolina.
We sent the North Carolina title to them and asked for the complete history.
It took a while because the office was closed due to the COVID-19
pandemic.
Eventually, we received a response from Robert Sawyer, State Law
Enforcement Agent at the North Carolina DMV License & Theft Bureau.
They were unable to locate the title we submitted to them. I called
Sawyer to inquire further. “We can’t find any record of that title or that
car. We think it’s a fraudulent title.”
Now we’ve got them!
To be continued next month. ♦
JOHn DrAnEAS is an attorney in Oregon. He can be reached through www.
draneaslaw.com. His comments are general in nature and are not intended to
substitute for consultation with an attorney.
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 53
Page 54
UNCONVENTIONAL WISDOM DONALD OSBORNE
Finding Perspective Through Your Passion
A suddenly larger, slower world offers moments of motoring joy and personal
growth
New journeys
I have rediscovered much of the joy in solitary drives in vintage
cars, especially as I explore and discover the wonders of my new state,
Rhode Island. I really enjoyed my 10 years in Southern California, but I
have to say that the roads in New England are rather more entertaining
than most of those near my former home.
They offer a wonderful variety, which suits the full range of the
different cars in my collection — some roads are just right for my Fiat
Panda, while others were made for my Ferrari 400i A. That the state is
so small is another bonus, as you can cover a relatively small distance
with great variety.
That I haven’t been able to carve lines through a lakeside road in
Northern Italy is unfortunate, but enjoyment is at my fingertips a few
minutes from home here.
Taking the time
I have also been appreciating lessons in patience. I can intellectually
The byways of Rhode Island meet with the author’s approval
T
he past few months have given me, as they have to many others,
time to reflect on what is truly important and meaningful in my
life — and the way I interact with the community of the world.
That’s sort of a grand statement, but it actually brings home
to me how a series of seemingly small decision points can have a much
larger effect.
I will start by acknowledging how activities I once either took for
granted or worse yet, complained about, such as my almost-constant
travel schedule, I now actually miss or find it difficult to recall. For the
past six years, my work had seen me spend about three months every
year in Italy, and I regularly commuted between LAX and Milan.
The strange warp of time makes it seem incredible that by the be-
ginning of March, I had already flown 75,000 miles — from Chile to
California, California to Rhode Island three times, to Arizona, Italy,
India and Florida. It was my usual schedule, but on steroids. I knew
with my new position as CEO of the Audrain Auto Museum it would, if
not slow, be altered. But of course I had no idea just how much.
Solitude
I am still in the midst of supervising four restoration projects in
Italy, and I have not been able to inspect them and meet in person with
the craftspeople working on them since January. My appraisal associates
Scott King and Brian Sevy in Palm Springs are evaluating cars for
appraisal from specified, detailed lists of photos supplied by clients in
lieu of in-person inspections.
And while I am certainly not in the position that many have found
themselves in — searching desperately for ways to fill their days — I
have found that much of what was once routine in my life has become
re-imagined. Life is change by its very nature, and this has been brought
home in spades in the past few months.
That change is frequent, and for me, most often beneficial, has
been more obvious than ever. I am busier than I have ever been in my
working life, which, given the number of careers I have had and their
complexity, is saying a great deal. I am also more satisfied — and, dare
I say, content — than I have ever been.
54 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
appreciate its virtue, but in practice, many times over the decades it has
proved elusive. A character asset I cheerfully embrace is determination.
Its mirror character defect is an intense drive to have something
quickly accomplished, done, finished, over.
My much-loved 1960 Fiat 1500 OSCA Pinin Farina coupe has been
off the road since the SCM 1000 in July 2019, courtesy of a piston ring
that decided it was no longer in the mood to travel along with its siblings
and the piston on which they had made their home. As a result, the last
two-and-a-half days of the rally were spent running on three cylinders.
A tribute to the Maserati brothers and the Fiat workers who built the
1500 OSCA twin-cam engine must be paid. Even down a pot — and
laying a lovely smoke screen at a certain part of the power range —
the car pulled like a freight train and performed remarkably well. It
has been in car hospital since last August for an engine rebuild and
cosmetic freshening of the engine compartment.
The work is coming along well, if slowly, thanks to a few challenges
in obtaining the proper parts — and some family health challenges in
the shop where the work is being done. But the result is certain to be
wonderful. The shop is a very experienced and capable one — and as
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the car for many years with what was a tired
engine, to have a strong, fresh powerplant will take my joy with the car
to a new level.
As you’ve read on these pages a few months ago, I also recently
acquired a 1953 Jaguar Mk VII. It too is in a shop, being gently recommissioned
after resting unused for a number of years. I’m eager
to pilot it along these perfectly suited roads of Rhode Island and waft
it through Newport, where it will be completely at home among 18th
century homes, grand “cottages” and beside moored yachts.
However, to do the work being done on the Fiat and the Jaguar prop-
erly takes time — and I will have long forgotten the time away from
the car during the years of enjoyment I will certainly have with them
both. And that’s where the altered time of the COVID-19 world has paid
ample dividends.
Perspective is the gift that my automotive passion has allowed me
to gain — change, whether in location from coast to coast, in my travel
schedule and habits, or in the diminution of my desire for immediate
gratification in my collector-car experience, has been a good thing.
I have become better at appreciating what I have right now and more
adept at looking with measured anticipation for what is to come — in
its time. ♦
Page 56
AMERICAN CAR COLLECTOR JIM PICKERING
Mundane No More
The birth of nostalgia drives the cutting edge of the market
T
here’s a moment in time when mundane
cars become something more. I’m
fascinated by that moment, because the
turning point of interest is the absolute
cutting edge of the classic-car market. It’s
where new trends are born.
If you want to understand where we’re
going as a market, you have to really look at
where we are right now — specifically when
it comes to buyers’ extensions from the norm.
Sorting through pricing outliers can teach us
a few things about the future.
Here’s a concrete example: On June 22,
Bring a Trailer wrapped up an auction on
lot 32978 — a 1985 Chevrolet ¾-ton pickup.
At first glance, it was not all that special.
Brown. 350. Four-speed truck transmission.
Four-wheel drive. It didn’t have a/c or even
the higher Silverado trim. But what it did
have was just 589 miles and all its original
paperwork, which led to a still-can’t-believeit
price of $88,725.
Crazy, right? This truck is fundamentally
no different than the one I see hauling yard
tools into my neighborhood every Tuesday.
Yet here we are, talking about it in SCM — the home of million-dollar Ferraris and
Bentleys.
Does the truck really belong? You might say no, but I think it does, even if only
because it’s instructive.
Climbing the grade
I know that one sale does not make a market. But while this work-truck-turned-
collectible brought a new record price, I wasn’t surprised by it, or by the number of
emails and conversations I had about it after the fact. Some folks had a hard time
accepting the price; others just wanted to know what it meant.
Older American trucks have been valuable for quite some time. We covered the rise
of later-model trucks in American Car Collector magazine over a year ago, and interest
has continued along despite today’s coronavirus-related limitations.
Combing through auction sales from 2019 through today will show you more than
a few 1970s and 1980s American pickups sold at well above what you might consider
reasonable pricing. Sometimes, like with Big Brown here, prices really ring the bell
due to something like super-low miles — especially when those sales are outside farm
country. But while expensive, this isn’t the outlier you might think it is.
Rolling through the past five years of data will bring you to one conclusion:
Americans love pickups, and they’re willing to pay up for the best classic examples.
That hasn’t changed.
We — the buying pool — is what’s changing, along with our definition of “classic.”
Signal in the noise
In previous SCMs, Miles Collier has referenced the need to separate the signal from
the noise as it pertains to the classic-car market. Which sales are true trends and which
are anomalies? Was this truck sold to a seasoned collector making a careful decision,
or was this some wackadoo new-money millionaire burning cash to excite a Monday?
For my purposes here, it doesn’t really matter. When it comes to a market waking
up to a new model or genre, I figure the noise is the signal.
I’m not going to argue that this ultra-low-miles rig was worth the money spent here.
Turning point: 1985 Chevrolet K20 Scottsdale 4×4 — brown, no less — sold for $88,725 on Bring a Trailer
But justified or not, sales that create buzz have a way of
changing how we, as collectors, look at a model.
It’s especially true when the buzz repeats itself, clari-
fying into a clearer signal. We have seen solid pricing
on a number of later-model trucks over the past year or
so — both stock and modified.
Even if you’re not a truck person, I bet you’ll see a
yard guy’s ’86 C20 a little differently now, even if it’s
just to remind you of this crazy sale. The point is, you’ll
notice, and the first thing you’ll find when you actually
start looking is that while they were once everywhere, a
lot of these trucks are now gone.
That realization is the first step in building nostalgia
in some of us, and once our nostalgia takes hold of something,
watch out. Pricing follows.
You can apply this to any number of lesser-grade
collector cars, from Japanese econoboxes to once-cheap
British sports cars. For cars and trucks that weren’t born
special — stuff that earned its reverence by being part of
people’s lives until used up and discarded — this is how
pricing outliers can lead to a new market trend.
So should you run right out and buy a 1970s or 1980s
American truck? That depends on you. I’ve always said
that car people should have trucks, too — but if you
don’t connect with this part of the American experience,
a brown K20 isn’t going to charm you.
But if, when you look at this truck, you see crisper
lines than you remember, more metalflake than you
thought they had, or are relieved by the last era of mechanical
simplicity before ghosts in the machine became
the norm, you might be smart to start looking for one now.
They’ll be more expensive tomorrow. ♦
56 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 60
PROFILES IN THIS ISSUE
Significant Sales That Provide a Snapshot of the Market
FERRARI: 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO p. 62
ENGLISH: 1973 Ford Escort 1600 Mexico p. 64
ETCETERINI: 1967 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Alloy Coupe by Frua p. 66
GERMAN: 1964 Porsche 356C Outlaw p. 68
AMERICAN: 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window Resto-Mod p. 72
RACE: 1984 Peugeot 205 T16 “Evo 1” Group B Rally p. 74
NEXT GEN: 2000 Honda Civic Si p. 76
Page 61
1984 Peugeot 205 T16 “Evo 1” Group B Rally
Courtesy of Silverstone Auctions
horsepower per pound than the 512 Boxer. The 308
doesn’t even make the comparison.
Now we have a Superman
Older turbo systems were switch off/switch on. When
the boost came on, the horsepower violently changed.
Within a few rpm, the horsepower could double, and
that’s where it gets fun. Sixty-two mph comes to the GTO
in 4.9 seconds. That was a serious number at the time,
but is misleading to the experience. There is an initial
lull as the boost comes on — then you’re at redline. Shift
and keep it on boost for an adventure you’re never going
to forget.
Even the best suspension can be overpowered, and the
GTO proves the point. Tires easily spin on acceleration.
Even at speed, tires will chirp under heavy throttle when
road conditions are less than ideal. Today, traction control
will not allow tires to spin — but in a GTO, coming
on boost is quite a thrill.
Performance dominates the GTO’s appeal, but it
would still be a hit even if it did not move. Leonardo
Fioravanti, Pininfarina’s design chief at
the time,
is
credited for the styling. He used a 308 GTB as his inspiration,
and from it produced a silhouette certain to live
on as one of the most beautiful of all time.
Fioravanti honored Ferrari’s original 250 GTO with
a gorgeous Kamm tail and air vents in the lower rear
When you can afford $2,000,000 for a car,
you can probably afford $3,000,000. This car
wouldn’t make the radar of the heavy hitters
who would fight it out for a trophy example.
quarter panels. He made room for big Goodyear tires
by flaring the fenders at the wheel openings. A new
front spoiler, outrageous outside mirrors and threepiece
wheels are just a couple of the GTO’s distinctive
features. Ninety percent of the GTO’s content is unique
to the car, an admirable feat for a model with just 272
examples.
Our subject supercar
Our 288 GTO is a world traveler. It was sold new to a
German-based collector who picked it up at the Ferrari
factory. He did not even make it home before the car
was stolen out of a hotel parking garage in the south
of France. A detective working for his insurance company
tracked the car to an Arizona dealer, where it had
landed after temporary stays in both France and Italy.
Once back in Germany, the 288 GTO took a place of
honor next to the owner’s 250 GTO. The theft did not
DETAILS
Years produced: 1984–86
Number produced: 272
Original list price: $83,400
Current SCM Median Valuation:
$2,934,000
Tune-up cost: $3,500
Distributor caps: $300 each. Two
required
Chassis # location: Stamped on
the upper frame in the engine
compartment
Engine # location: Stamped on the top
of the engine block near the front
deter the owner from enjoying the car. He put on more
than half of the car’s 23,555 kilometers (14,636 miles).
The next stop was back to the United States, where it
landed in 2001 to join the second of the car’s lucky three
owners.
Our subject GTO was the second-highest sale of RM
Sotheby’s “Driving into Summer” online auction.
RM Sotheby’s
$2,200,000–$2,400,000
estimate
seemed low for a model that has sold as high as
$3,900,000 just a few years back, but the auction house
was proved to be right. The $2,310,000 sale could not
have been closer to the estimate.
Buyers of 288 GTOs are particularly picky. They
often have a collection of ultra-low-mileage supercars.
They will pay up for a low-mile 288 GTO — and show
no love for driven examples. This car had an excellent
provenance, all the jewelry and no issues with the cosmetics
or mechanicals. Unfortunately 14,636 miles on
the odometer is too many to make collector status, which
was reflected in the sale price.
As much as I want to declare the sale a big win for the
buyer, it probably was not.
When you can afford $2,000,000 for a car, you can
probably afford $3,000,000. This car wouldn’t make the
radar of the heavy hitters who would fight it out for a
trophy example. That’s too bad, because there will be
little penalty for putting some miles on this car, and
that’s what a 288 GTO is really about. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.)
STEVE AHLGRIM served as general manager and vice president
of Ferrari dealer FAF Motorcars, has been a concours judge for
over 25 years, and is a member of the IAC/PFA — an international
committee that oversees high-level Ferrari concours judging.
HIGH AUCTION SALES FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS
$3,935,178
$4,000,000
1985 Ferrari 288 GTO
$3,000,000
$2,000,000
$1,000,000
$0
2015
2016
2017
N/A
2018
$2,750,000
$2,585,000
This sale:
$2,310,000
1985 Ferrari 288 GTO Lightweight coupe
Lot 144, s/n ZFFPA16B000057709
Condition 2+
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Sold at $3,935,178
RM Sotheby’s, Ferrari Sale, Maranello,
ITA, 9/9/2017
SCM# 6846456
2019
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 63
$3,360,000
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Clubs: Ferrari Owners Club, Ferrari Club
of America
Web: www.ferrariownersclub.org, www.
ferrariclubofamerica.org
Alternatives: 1987–92 Ferrari F40,
1986–88 Porsche 959, 1991–93
Jaguar XJ 220
SCM Investment Grade: B
COMPS
1985 Ferrari 288 GTO coupe
Lot 52, s/n ZFFPA16B000055713
Condition 2Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $2,507,500
Gooding & Company, Scottsdale, AZ,
1/18/2019
SCM# 6888636
1985 Ferrari 288 GTO coupe
Lot 117, s/n ZFFPA16B000056207
Condition 2Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $2,540,251
Bonhams, The Bond Street Sale, London,
U.K., 12/2/2017
SCM# 6856396
Page 64
ENGLISH PROFILE
Courtesy of Silverstone Auctions
1973 Ford Escort 1600 Mexico
It’s been hanging around the market for a while, but Silverstone got it sold —
online — at the third go
by Paul Hardiman
Chassis number: BFATNR00107
SCM Condition for this car: 2
T
he Ford Escort Mexico was introduced in November 1970 and
was so named because of Ford Motor Company’s victory in the
World Cup Rally, which started in London on April 19, 1970, and
finished some 16,000 miles later in Mexico.
Originally, Ford intended to use Escorts with the Twin-Cam or BDA
engine, but after some local reconnaissance, it was decided that high
speeds and large power outputs were less important than reliability and
ease of servicing, and therefore the Kent pushrod engine was used in
the Escort shell. It seems likely that Ford already had plans to produce
a high-performance Escort to fit in the range between the 1300GT and
the Twin-Cam/RS1600, but their victory in Mexico provided an ideal
platform to launch such a model.
The engineers at
the newly formed AVO (Advanced Vehicles
Operations) quickly developed the Mexico, marrying the Type 49
bodyshell, as used in the Twin Cam and RS1600, with the 1,600-cc Kent
crossflow engine and 2000E gearbox. So, effectively, the Mexico was
basically a re-engined Twin-Cam/RS1600. The Mexico became AVO’s
most successful and numerous of the Rally Sport Escorts, and had a
number of advantages on the road, in that it had excellent performance,
was easy to maintain, relatively easy to insure, and above all, it was
great to drive, something which is still true today.
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 196, sold for £37,400 ($45,533), including
buyer’s premium, at Silverstone’s May Live Online
Auction on May 23, 2020.
Silverstone has offered this car twice in the past 14 months, and both
times narrowly failed to sell it.
As an interested Mk1 owner, I had a good look around our subject
car last summer, and it appeared correct in every detail. These cars
have been widely faked — including my own bitsa “RS2000” — but here
the Type 49 bodyshell has, as well as the wide-lip front wheelarches, all
the correct strengthening pieces, plus the rear-axle radius arms and
the row of captive bolts to mount a skid shield under the trunk floor.
Not all cars were fitted with the skid — a Rallye Sport optional extra
64 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 65
The Mexico really was a
fine stroke of marketing:
Fit the strapping RS1600
shell with the muchless-expensive
1,599-cc
pushrod “Kent” engine
as used in the Cortina
1600E and Ford Capri GT,
and ride on the back of
that rally success.
— but they all have the mounts. In period, lots of these
cars were campaigned on rallies, and Ford capitalized
on this by offering factory-approved performance parts
from a network of Rallye Sport Centres.
Lots of original bits
It’s always been hard to resist “improvements” with
the amount of tuning kit available for them, but while
many of these have had hop-up parts added, such as
adjustable track control arms and/or rear disc brakes,
this well-restored car appeared completely standard.
The exceptions are the 60-profile tires which looked
slightly too small for it and, last time I saw it, a “rubber
band” 50-profile on the spare. This is easy to fix:
13-inch rubber choice has been limited over the past
couple of decades, although more sizes are available
now. Originally, it would have had 175/70s.
Our subject car even appeared to retain the 4-speed
gearbox, where many have had Type 9 5-speeds substituted
(they weigh a ton... especially when resting on your
chest), and the motor looked completely standard — still
with a twin-choke carb.
Many of these cars have grown twin Weber DCOEs,
which pushes power from the standard 84 bhp to around
100. For comparison, the 1,558-cc Twin Cam is 105 hp
and the “1,601-cc” RS1600’s BDA is 115 hp.
The mostly vinyl interior was all good, either very
well-preserved original or repro, and it even has the
original Haynes of Maidstone (a Rallye Sport Centre)
supplying dealer sticker in the back window.
A fast winner
The Mexico really was a fine stroke of marketing: Fit
the strapping RS1600 shell with the much-less-expensive
1,599-cc pushrod “Kent” engine as used in the Cortina
1600E and Ford Capri GT, and ride on the back of that
rally success. This is the time-honored formula of “Win
HIGH AUCTION SALES FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS
$75,000
$61,323
$60,000
$45,000
$30,000
$15,000
$0
$49,518
1973 Ford Escort
1600 Mexico
N/A
2015
2016
2017
2018
$68,298
This sale:
$45,533
N/A
2019
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 65
1972 Ford Escort Mexico
Lot 208, s/n BFATMC00061
Condition 1Transmission:
4-speed manual
Sold at $49,518
Silverstone, Blenheim Palace, U.K.,
9/2/2017
SCM# 6847470
on Sunday, sell on Monday.”
The World Cup Rally cars used pushrod engines as well
— instead of the Twin Cam or BDA — over fears about
the more-complicated engines’ ability to tolerate poor or
unknown fuel quality, plus ease of maintenance in the field.
However, the pushrod engines were bored out to
1,850 cc for extra torque. The bottom ends of all three
engines are common, and the Twin Cam versions retained
the original side-mounted camshaft to drive the
oil pump and distributor.
The current market
Silverstone has done well with fast Fords in recent
years — and has sold several Mexicos, which have
always been desirable among the boy-racer element
(guilty...) but are now sought-after collectors’ cars, all
helped by that competition heritage.
Our subject car, for some reason, proved harder to
shift than most.
I’ll keep the numbers in sterling here for consistency,
because in dollars the wavering exchange rate skews
the message. Last summer, it twice bid to £35k against
a £40k–£46k estimate, initially at Silverstone’s first (and
probably only) sale at Heythrop Park in May 2019 (Lot
305), and then the same again at the Silverstone Classic
sale in July 2019 (Lot 452), which to me is the market
speaking at a time when prices across the board were
on a downward slide.
The seller, a Ford collector given to periodic reshuf-
fles, felt otherwise, and both times took it away unsold.
This time, the seller accepted a top bid of £34,000, which
looked a pragmatic decision at a very fair price today.
Hindsight’s a wonderful thing. ♦
PAUL HARDIMAN has written for SCM since 2007. He’s our go-to
guy for British and European auction coverage — and many car
profiles.
1973 Ford Escort Mexico
Lot 536, s/n BFATNB000411
Condition 1Transmission:
4-speed manual
Sold at $68,298,
Silverstone, Silverstone, U.K.,
5/18/2018
SCM# 6872573
DETAILS
Years built: 1970–74
Number built: 10,352
Current SCM Median Valuation:
$45,571
Chassis # location: Plate on bonnet
slam panel
Engine # location: Lower left on block
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Tune-up cost: $100
Club: RS Owners’ Club
Web: www.rsownersclub.co.uk
Alternatives: 1972 Hillman Avenger
Tiger, 1972–74 Ford Escort RS2000
Mk1, 1966–77 BMW 1600/2/1602
COMPS
1973 Ford Escort Mexico (sunroof/
modified)
Lot 8, s/n BFATNU00068
Condition 2Transmission:
4-speed manual
Sold at $34,790
H&H, Duxford, U.K., 3/21/2018
SCM# 6867947
have been quite a bit less artsy and rather more documentary
in feel. Only one of the posted photos had been
taken outside, the rest inside a warehouse with somewhat
dramatic lighting which flattered the car’s appearance.
The interior looked beautifully patinated, with just
Back under the spotlights
So here we had an undeniable beauty queen from the
late Via Veneto period — just before the advent of student
strikes and the Red Brigades — somewhat down on
her luck having spent a few years locked away in hiding
from her fans, fearful of the way she might be perceived
in her middle age. Embraced by the “big time” auction
house as had been her more glamorous friends, how
would she be received?
Well, the answer was perhaps better than expected.
The Mistral was treated with a great deal of respect, but
ultimately, I think perhaps not as much honesty as was
deserved. To prepare for inclusion in this sale, it was
clear from the photos online that a great deal of time
and effort had been spent cleaning and detailing the car
inside and out.
Nothing is wrong with that, as I am not a fan of the
“tetanus car” presentation. A vehicle should be shown
to its best advantage, without quick-and-dirty fluffing.
However, for an online auction, the exterior shots could
HIGH AUCTION SALES FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS
$300,000
$200,000
$250,000
$150,000
$100,000
$50,000
$0
1967 Maserati Mistral coupe
2015
2016
N/A
2017
2018
This sale:
$62,500
2019
$241,582
$210,116
$212,127
$158,483
the right level of wear showing to give a gentlemen’sclub
feel. In the car’s favor, detail shots of the exterior
clearly showed areas of electrolytic corrosion bubbling
along the wheelarches, which is typical and expected
in a car such as this that has been parked in storage
for an extended time. Also evident in the photographs
of the engine compartment were the effects of the layup
in the surface rust and corrosion on the metal surfaces
and hoses.
It was also heartening to see that the Mistral retained
its Lucas fuel injection, which was often discarded in the
past in favor of carburetors. The Lucas systems are now
readily rebuildable and can be made more reliable than
when the cars were new. In my opinion, when properly
set up, the injection suits the engine’s power curve
well and provides a smooth and even delivery through
the range, which is well suited to the character of the
Mistral.
Many needs equals low bids
The pre-sale estimate of $90,000–$110,000 might
have seemed reasonable compared to an SCM Pocket
Price Guide median value of $132,000 and other recent
sales in a similar range for average cars with older restorations,
but the price realized is more representative
of the current marketplace — in which the active money
for cars is at a very competitive level.
The best examples of any particular car can and do
bring record high prices — even in the COVID-19 environment
— while projects such as this — or cars with
cloudy stories — bring vastly discounted ones.
In this case, based on the vehicle as judged by the
description and photographs, this car seems to be a
fairly good deal. After figuring in the need to completely
rebuild the mechanicals and a minimal cosmetic intervention,
the new owner would not be too far underwater.
And, for the enjoyment of driving this superbly el-
egant grand tourer, the new owner’s “loss” is certain to
be repaid in the experience of ownership. ♦
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.)
DONALD OSBORNE, ASA, is the CEO of Audrain LLC and oversees
the Audrain Automobile Museum and the Audrain’s Newport
Concours & Motor Week. An historian and consultant, he stars on
“Jay Leno’s Garage” on CnBC.
1966 Maserati Mistral 3.7 Spyder
Lot 125, s/n AM109SI163
Condition 2
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Sold at $595,337
RM Sotheby’s, Paris, FRA, 2/6/2019
SCM# 6891365
DETAILS
Years produced: 1964–70
Number produced: 828
Original List Price: $21,000
Current SCM Median Valuation:
$132,000
Tune-up cost: $3,500
Chassis # location: Engine compartment
on side rail
Engine # location: Stamped on side
of block
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Web: www.maseratinet.com
Alternatives: 1963–65 Aston Martin
DB5, 1961–64 Lancia Flaminia
Sport, 1966–68 Lamborghini 400
GT 2+2
SCM Investment Grade: C
COMPS
1967 Maserati Mistral 4.0 Spyder
Lot 218, s/n AM109SA1665
Condition 2+
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Sold at $302,000
RM Sotheby’s, Phoenix, AZ, 1/16/2020
SCM# 6922147
1966 Maserati Mistral 4.0 coupe
Lot 152, s/n AM109A1686
Condition 2Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $210,116
Artcurial, Paris, FRA, 11/1/2015
SCM# 267472
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 67
Along come the Emorys
Gary Emory was a SoCal kid whose father created
cars at Valley Custom Shop in Burbank, CA, starting
about 1948. Valley Custom built a number of famous hot
rods and a Bonneville tanker streamliner.
Fast-forward to the 1960s, and both father Neil and
his son Gary were in the parts department at Chick
Iverson’s Newport Beach Porsche dealership. Some
years later Gary opened what was originally called
“Porsche Parts Obsolete,” now just “Parts Obsolete”
(you know about Germany’s dire trademark enforcements),
famous for its swapmeets at its early location on
Randolph Street in Costa Mesa, CA.
At the time, reportedly inspired by the Jeffries
Kustom Karrera, Gary began to modify cars — inventing
the Baja Bug and building Outlaw 356s. As every
Porschephile knows, Gary’s son Rod is now widely considered
to be the foremost builder of 356 Outlaws, both
in terms of craftmanship and pricing — whether new or
in the aftermarket.
What does the market tell us?
The public market has seen a surprising number of
Outlaws in play over the past five years. Here are a few
of the more interesting and relevant examples:
1. Gary Emory 1955 356 coupe serial number 54089.
Lot 263 at RM Sotheby’s 2015 Scottsdale Auction.
The car is probably this writer’s all-time favorite 356
Outlaw. With customized bodywork and many elegant
and subtle Emory details, the car was silver over black/
tan. In the rear was a Dean Polopolus “Polo” 4-cylinder
engine. Dean essentially cut the middle two cylinders
out of a 911 engine. He installed a custom case, crank,
camshafts, etc., to deliver about 140 horsepower. A
5-speed Type 901 gearbox did the important connection.
Boxster disc brakes supplied stopping power. The sale
was at $258,500, including buyer’s premium.
2. Gary Emory 1954 356 cabriolet/Speedster. Lot
2116 at Auctions America’s July 2015 Santa Monica, CA,
sale. It was a cabriolet built into a Speedster for collector
and racer Cam Healey. Finished as a vintage racer
or track-day car, it had an uprated 912 engine, a Vic
Skirmants Type 741 gearbox and rear Z bar, disc brakes,
lots of custom body details — with a subtle full cage —
but also with creature comforts such as carpeting. It was
finished in slate gray over a red interior. It was bid up to
$180,000 and did not sell.
3. 1953 356 coupe. Lot 185 at Auctions America’s
2016 Hilton Head Auction. With an undisclosed builder,
the silver car had a 2.8-liter Type 4 (VW) based engine,
undoubtedly by FAT Performance, driving a Type 901
5-speed gearbox and rear suspension off an early 911.
That all necessitated a five-inch widening of the rear
bodywork — which was accomplished so smoothly that
it looked almost stock. It had a huge aluminum gas tank,
a 1980s Porsche interior including instruments — but in
a stock dashboard. It sold for $57,750. I suspect that was
less than 25% of the cost to build the car.
4. “1965” 356C coupe/roadster resto-mod. Lot 25
at Worldwide’s Riyadh Auction in Saudi Arabia on
November 23, 2019. Built by Ryan Friedlinghaus’ wellregarded
West Coast Customs in Burbank, CA, the
shortened chassis, dashboard, and running gear were
all modern 2.7-liter Porsche Cayman, on top of which a
topless, widened 356 coupe body had been mounted. The
hood, parking lights and front air grilles were distinctly
356A. The car sold for $550,000, including buyer’s premium.
5. Rod Emory 1959 356A sunroof coupe. A very pub-
lic, much-watched sale on Bring a Trailer that closed
on October 18, 2019. A 2012 build, the car was updated
by Rod Emory in 2019 with a Jeff Gamroth (Rothsport
Racing of Portland, OR) 4-cylinder, 2.4-liter engine that
scales down a 964 engine, driving through a 901 5-speed
gearbox, delivering 205 horsepower. Spirited bidding
ended when David MacNeil, a well-known collector of
Porsches and Ferraris plus a few notable Astons, bought
it for $500,000. For reference, brand-new Rod Emory
Outlaws run from $375,000 up to over $600,000 for the
newest carbon-fiber 356 RSs.
The 356 Outlaw at auction
Our auction car was a 1964 356C reconstructed on a
tube frame. The builder was Mike Colucci (of Brumos
Racing) with a full 6-cylinder, 2.8-liter 911 engine and a
custom KW coil-over suspension. The Albert Blue bodywork
and brown custom interior were well executed at
known shops. The car’s magic was mechanical, with a
body that was not very customized other than the obviously
needed widening and some cooling louvers under
the rear deck lid.
The result at $154,000, including buyer’s premium,
was undoubtedly a lot less than the cost to build the car.
Someone got a huge bargain for a hot-rod 356 tour car,
assuming the car drives well with the substantial rearweight
bias.
The moral: There are Emory family Outlaws, Ryan
Friedlinghaus resto-mods — and then all the others. The
disparity is understandable, but real bargains await in
the “other” classification — if you can divine excellent
build quality from shoddy. ♦
PRESCOTT KELLY, SCM’s expert on all things Porsche, started
writing for us in 2010.
1976 Porsche 912E Outlaw coupe
Lot 1006.1, s/n 9126001133
Condition 2
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Sold at $60,500
Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, AZ,
1/13/2018
SCM# 6857939
DETAILS
Years produced: 1957–present (custom
Outlaws)
Number produced: Unknowable
Original list price: Not applicable
Current SCM Median Valuation: Each
car is a custom and stands on
its own merits. For this car, it is
$154,000.
Tune-up/major service: Depending on
engine choice, $2,000–$4,000
Chassis # location: Variable depending
on base 356 and customization
Engine # location: Variable depending
on engine choice
Club: Porsche Club of America
Website: www.pca.org
Alternatives: Corvette resto-mods,
American V8-powered 250 Ferraris,
similar Austin-Healeys
SCM Investment Grade: C
COMPS
1964 Porsche 356C Outlaw coupe
(Profile car)
Lot 176, s/n 128955
Condition 1Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $122,080
Bonhams, Amelia Island, FL, 3/8/2018
SCM# 6863690
1982 Porsche 911SC Outlaw coupe
Lot 115, s/n WP00AA0910CS122279
Condition 2Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $71,500
The Finest, Boca Raton, FL, 2/12/2017
SCM# 6827604
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 69
Page 72
AMERICAN PROFILE
Courtesy of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window
Resto-Mod
It’s a resto-mod, sure. And it sold for big bucks. But is it the right car for you?
By Kevin Whipps
Chassis number: 30837S117874
SCM Condition for this car: 1
• GM LS3 with 540 hp
• GM 4L70E automatic overdrive transmission
• Lokar shifter
• Art Morrison sport chassis
• Strange Engineering self-dampening shocks
• Six-piston polished Wilwood front brakes; four-piston Wilwood
rear
• Power windows
• Air conditioning
• 18- and 20-inch Schott wheels with Toyo Redline tires
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 240, sold for $357,500, including buyer’s
premium, at Barrett-Jackson’s May Online Auction.
This resto-mod 1963 C2 is a good-looking car that sold for huge
money in comparison to original 1963 Corvette Split-Window cars. But
is it just another cookie-cutter build?
A resto-mod for the masses
The Corvette C2 has been an auction staple for years. They’re a
fairly reliable sale, with many of them pulling in six figures and some
even going (or at least listing) for over a million dollars.
But the market is changing. These cars are still out there and chang-
ing hands, but the examples you’re seeing are a bit different than they
used to be. Are full restorations still the way to go, or are we just going
to see more and more resto-mods?
Dollars and sense
Let’s begin with the basics: There were a little over 20,000 C2s made
in 1963, with a roughly 50/50 split between convertibles and coupes.
Their relative rarity — especially for the Split-Window coupe — is part
of the appeal, as are the timeless looks. But because the cars have been
around for so long, there’s a lengthy history of them appearing on the
auction block.
From a collector’s perspective, one can understand the angle. Seeing
all these huge paydays come down the pike sure is attractive. And if
you’ve got yourself a 1963 C2 of your own — especially a special SplitWindow
coupe — thoughts might turn to restoring it, then selling it and
buying a new yacht or a stately manor in rural Montana.
Were this five or 10 years ago, we might agree. But now? Well, not
so much.
See, the audience for these cars is changing. Lots of people out there
buy the rides they wanted from their childhood — or the ones they had
72 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 73
when they were first learning how to drive. It’s all about
nostalgia. And if you fit into the early-Baby Boomer
market, you would’ve been around 17 when the iconic
’63 Split-Window first hit the scene. Today, you’d be 74.
Is that the right time in your life to spend six or seven
figures on a car? Sure, maybe — or maybe not. It’s possible
that if you want your nostalgia fix, you’ll just pick
one up for under $100k and be just as happy.
And there’s another factor here, too. These C2s have
been around for 57 years, as has the C2 in general. Which
means a lot of people have messed around with them,
customized them in one way or the other, and that makes
it even harder to find good versions that are all-original.
Enter the resto-mod
This brings us to the resto-mod scene. You have to be
a certain type of person to find them appealing. You’re
not a numbers-matching collector, and you don’t care
how many owners it’s seen. What you do want is something
that looks and performs amazingly well — perhaps
with the brakes and handling of a modern car. Maybe
you just want a really pretty car — and that’s it. Is it
original? Who cares? It lays down a mean patch of rub-
This car brought a ton of money — well over the
current SCM Median Value of $78,000 for a
standard 1963 Corvette Split-Window coupe.
In fact, this resto-mod sold for more than
the SCM Median Value for a 1963 Z06
Split-Window coupe — which is the holy grail
for many Corvette collectors.
ber and looks like it belongs in a Hot Wheels collector
case. That’s all that matters.
This car is clearly a resto-mod. And, frankly, it’s
beautiful. No, there wasn’t a clinical restoration done
of the car with the perfectly rebuilt, numbers-matching
engine, but will it get looks? Absolutely. And if you’re the
type who drives their cars (or even just shows them off
parked), then yeah, this is a perfect car for you. It would
stand out in a crowd of similar hot rods, but not overpower
anything in the garage. It’s just a clean, pretty car
that gets attention. And who doesn’t want that?
About that price ...
This car brought a ton of money — well over the cur-
rent SCM Median Value of $78,000 for a standard 1963
Corvette Split-Window coupe. In fact, this resto-mod
sold for more than the SCM Median Value for a 1963
Z06 Split-Window coupe — which is the holy grail for
many Corvette collectors.
This brings us to the next sticking point — the price. Is
$357,500 fair for this resto-mod car? Possibly.
Let’s go to Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Auction on
January 13, 2020, where a black 1963 Corvette SplitWindow
resto-mod sold for $385,000 (SCM# 6922270).
When you compare the two cars, they’re awfully similar.
Both have the same wheels, the interiors are both red
and they have almost identical drivetrains and suspensions.
The big difference? One is black and the other is
white — and that black one earned an extra $30k on the
block. That all tracks, as the cars were both built by Jeff
Hayes Customs and completed months apart.
You could chalk all this up to chance, but these resto-
mod Split-Windows are often selling for bigger bucks
than an original Split-Window. But is this really what
you want?
A look into the future
What does this all mean then? Well, it seems like
there’s an industry out there for building resto-mod
Split-Windows. If you buy one, you’ll get a beautiful
car like this one here, but it may share some traits with
another one that follows it on the block. That’s not necessarily
a bad thing, because a good-looking car is a
good-looking car.
But it’s not really unique — there are other examples
that are very similar. How much that matters to you is
what’s important. At the end of the day, spending over
$300,000 on a car is a big investment. Spending this
kind of money on a resto-mod has backfired many times
when owners go to resell the car. In the past, the resale
market for resto-mods — no matter how well they’re
done — has been shaky.
You may get your money back — and you may not.
Collectors who value original Corvettes — a big part of
the Corvette collecting world — will hate your car and
will never buy it.
But if you’re good with that, then a C2 resto-mod like
this one isn’t a bad deal. ♦
KEVIN WHIPPS is an American car guy through and through — he’s
a longtime custom-car and -truck magazine writer, and is the
author of several books on GM truck restoration.
DETAILS
Year produced: 1963
Number produced: 10,594 Split-Window
coupes
Original list price: $4,252
Current SCM Median Valuation:
$371,250 (resto-mod 1963 Corvette
Split-Windows)
Tune-up / major service: $200
Distributor cap: $12.99
Chassis # location: Under the glovebox
on the instrument panel brace
Engine # location: Passenger’s side
front cylinder head
Transmission: 4-speed manual or
3-speed automatic
Club: The Corvette C2 Registry
Web: www.c2registry.org
Alternatives: 1963 Porsche 911, 1963
Aston Martin DB5, 1963 Chevrolet
Corvette Z06 Split-Window coupe
(stock)
SCM Investment Grade: B
COMPS
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window
coupe
Lot 109, s/n 30837S108329
Condition: 2
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Sold at $128,800
Gooding & Company, Scottsdale, AZ,
1/17/2020
SCM# 6919168
1963 Chevrolet Corvette 327/360
Split-Window coupe
Lot 225, s/n 30837S106704
Condition: 1Transmission:
4-speed manual
Sold at $134,400
RM Sotheby’s, Phoenix, AZ, 1/16/2020
SCM# 6922270
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Custom
Split-Window coupe
Lot 1363, s/n 30837S119414
Condition: 1
Transmission: Automatic
Sold at $385,000
Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, AZ,
1/13/2020
SCM# 6922285
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 73
Page 74
RACE PROFILE
Courtesy of Silverstone Auctions
1984 Peugeot 205 T16 “Evo 1” Group B Rally
This fast, deadly “Killer B” has great racing history, but it isn’t a factory car
by Thor Thorson
Chassis number: VF3741R76E5100007
SCM Condition for this car: 2-
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 149, sold for $409,799, including buyer’s
premium, at Silverstone Auctions’ May Live Online
Auction on May 23, 2020.
You say that you want excitement and thrills? Something to get the
old adrenaline pumping as you hurtle down a twisting gravel road at
insane speeds? How about buying a 1984–86 rally car that has been
deemed so dangerous that it and its brethren have been prohibited by
name from competing in FIA-sanctioned historic rallying?
Granted, they can still be used on closed circuits, hillclimbs and
parades, but you get the point — these things can kill you. Welcome to
the world of “Killer B” rally cars.
Through much of its history, rallying was a relatively genteel sport,
practiced in production cars on public roads. During the 1970s, things
began to change, as promoters discovered that lots of people were
willing to pay to stand and watch ever-more-specialized rally cars
hurtle over back-country — mostly gravel — roads. By the 1980s,
professional rallying was attracting more paying customers than
Formula One.
Auto manufacturers quickly realized that “Win on Sunday, sell on
Monday” applied in spades to having their cars in the show, so they
threw substantial budgets at the effort. The FIA, as the governing body
and charged with the success of auto competition around the world,
was eager to help, and to that end, seriously relaxed the rules about
what was legal to run.
In 1982, the FIA split rallying into two groups: groups A and B.
Group A was the old production cars, but Group B broke new ground.
The Killer Bs start to buzz
To qualify in Group B, a manufacturer only had to build 200 cars
that had a given mechanical layout. Then they were allowed to build
up to 20 “Evolution” pure racing variants per year. These “Evo”
racers needed to share the mechanical layout and the general external
appearance of the road versions — and little else.
Thus, 1984 and 1985 saw the arrival of very specialized “homologation
special” street cars like the Ford RS200, the Lancia Delta S4 and the
Peugeot 205 T16 (among others). By themselves these were very special —
even scary — little hot-rod coupes, with turbocharged mid-engine layout,
all-wheel drive and minimal interiors, but they were just the excuse.
74 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 75
The main event, of course, was the “Evo” version of
each, destined for the World Rally Championship events.
Production chassis were replaced with tube frames.
Metal bodywork was replaced with fiberglass shells.
Suspensions were redesigned to give more travel and
survive brutal usage. And the engines were reworked to
double — and even triple — their original horsepower.
There was no attempt to even pretend that these were
street-legal cars — they were purpose-built racers
designed to be driven flat out over really bad back roads
while spectators cheered.
If all this sounds dangerous, it was.
Hazards — and deaths — galore
The routes were primarily logging access roads built
with zero thought to safety: trees, ditches and cliffs were
frequently only a few feet off the path of travel, and guard
rails were all but unknown (fine if you are a logging
truck at 15 mph). Participants had very limited access in
advance. They usually got a single reconnaissance run
so the navigator could make notes to read back to the
driver, so courage and reaction time were paramount.
The roads were point to point, so nothing ever
repeated.
Spectators were an additional problem: The crowds
could be huge, but they were just sitting along the route
in places they thought would be great viewing. There
was little or no crowd control, and if something did go
wrong, it took time to get emergency crews to the scene.
Combine all this with roughly 2,200-pound cars with
500-plus horsepower going flat out, and the recipe was
for thrills and occasionally disaster.
As often happens in these situations, things started
out pretty good and then spiraled further towards the
extremes until luck ran out.
1984 was the first year that the B cars were a serious
component, and things went pretty well. 1985 was the
year that the boost knobs were screwed down further,
and cars got faster, but it all continued to be a great
show for all concerned.
In 1986 it all came apart — horsepower was out of
control, with 500 being the norm and some cars making
800 — and fate finally caught up. A series of truly
horrendous accidents, killing both participants and
spectators, forced the FIA to bow to reality and pull the
plug. The era of the “Killer B” cars was over.
Rallying continued, of course, as it does to this day
(and it remains arguably the purest test of sheer driving
ability in all motorsport), but safety regained its role as
arbiter of the game.
Fast, special cars
Of the roughly seven manufacturers who fielded
serious Killer B rally cars, Peugeot was the most
successful, with its T16 Evo, posting 13 outright wins to
win both Constructor’s and Driver’s titles in 1985 and
1986.
Based loosely on their 205 FWD hatchback model,
the T16 moved the engine to a transverse position
behind the seats and incorporated a 5-speed Citroën SM
gearbox feeding all four wheels. They used the 1,800-cc
diesel block for its strength and built a 16-valve head
for breathing — and, of course, a turbocharger to
force the horsepower. Weighing in at 2,200 pounds and
producing anywhere from 300 to 500 horsepower, the
cars were able to maintain superb handling to match the
performance.
Our subject car was not a Peugeot team racer, and it
wasn’t built at the factory.
A wealthy American named John Woodner wanted
the ultimate weapon for American rallying, so he had
this car built
(in 1984) by Peugeot Sport U.K. It
is
apparently a completely correct T16 Evo 1, just not built
in France. After a few seasons in the U.S., the car made
its way to New Zealand, where it remained active into
the 2000s, picking up various engine-management and
fuel-injection upgrades along the way.
It returned to the U.K., where it was comprehensively
restored and has spent the past 15 or so years as a
treasured vintage
rally
car. The
current 350-plus
horsepower keeps it very quick — but more survivable
in the show/demonstration kind of use it is now very
welcome to have.
It is not as collectible as any
of the factory team cars, though.
This car is more of a high-level,
weapons-grade toy to go enjoy
and frighten your passenger
with than a collection anchor.
As such, it sits in the middle
value range for cars of this ilk,
well above a “production” Ford
RS200 but nowhere close to a
factory Lancia Delta S4. Using
a cost-per-adrenaline-rush
value base, I would say this was
fairly bought. ♦
THOR THORSON wrote his first race
Profile for SCM way back in 2003. He
has owned this part of the magazine
ever since, much to the delight of all.
1986 Ford RS200 Evolution coupe
Lot 128, s/n SFACXXBJ2CGL00215
Condition 3+
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Sold at $379,689
Bonhams, Bond Street, London, U.K.,
12/2/17
SCM# 6856385
DETAILS
Years produced: 1984–85
Number produced: 20 (Evo 1) plus
this car
Original list price: N/A
Current SCM Median Valuation:
$400,000 (this car)
Chassis # location: Unknown
Engine # location: Unknown
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Club: Peugeot Sport Club U.K.
Web: https://pscuk.net
Alternatives: 1986 Ford RS200, 1985
Audi Quattro E2, 1985 Lancia
Delta S4
SCM Investment Grade: B
COMPS
1985 Lancia Delta S4 Rally hatchback
Lot 152, s/n ZLA038AR000000202
Condition 2Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $985,765
RM Sotheby’s, London, U.K., 10/24/19
SCM# 6915841
1986 Audi Quattro Sport hatchback
Lot 114, s/n WAUZZZ85ZEA905076
Condition 2
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Sold at $540,288
RM Sotheby’s, London, U.K., 9/7/16
SCM# 6804501
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 75
Page 76
NEXT GEN PROFILE
bringatrailer.com
2000 Honda Civic Si
A coveted model in original condition — and with very low miles — creates a Hell
is Freezing Over sale
by Brian Baker
Chassis number: 1HGEM115XYL119227
SCM Condition for this car: 2+
• 5,600 miles shown
• 1.6-L B16A2 inline 4-cylinder engine
• 5-speed manual transaxle
• Electron Blue over patterned gray cloth
• Air conditioning
• Sunroof
• Cruise control
• Pioneer stereo
• Window sticker
• Partial service records
SCM Analysis This car, Lot 32346, sold for $52,500, including
buyer’s premium, on Bring a Trailer’s website on
June 5, 2020.
For some people, this sale is hell freezing over. For others, like me,
it was expected for some time. It’s been a little bit over a year since I
told SCMers to watch out for Honda Civics — in our “Buy/Sell/Hold”
column (July 2019, p. 88). I also recommended to go for the higher-trim
models.
It was also around this time when I received readers’ notes about
how these cars would never be collectible.
So, how is this seemingly average car a collectible?
76 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
The right time and the right place
Honda first entered the American automotive market in 1969 by
bringing their N600 to Hawaii and then later California. The under40-horsepower
car wasn’t very powerful, but had high drivability and
very good gas mileage.
Honda then introduced their new model in 1972 — the Civic.
Page 77
DETAILS
Years produced: 1999–2000 (this trim)
Number produced: 33,789 (this trim)
Original list price: $17,500
Current SCM Median Valuation: $27,000
Tune-up cost: $100
Distributor caps: $40
The Civic came at a great point in time as the oil
crisis of 1973 had people looking for more fuel-efficient
cars to drive. The reliability of this car also won people
over very quickly.
Honda’s product-generation cycles were shorter
than most other makes at the time: Honda switched the
platform up every four years instead of the industry
standard of six years.
Honda released the second-generation and then
third-generation Civics in 1979 and 1983.
Then came the golden era of Honda Civics — the
fourth, fifth and sixth generations from 1988 to 2000.
By the early 1990s, the Civic was known as a cheap,
reliable and gas-sipping car. Enthusiasts also realized
that this light econobox was also nimble and sporty to
drive, thanks to the double-wishbone suspension.
The CRX and hatchbacks were seen in competitive
racing, such as the Japanese Touring Car Championship
race series in Japan. When the Civic became a racing
platform, aftermarket companies started churning out
special parts for the cars.
Mods galore
Once the late 1990s arrived, the Civic was one of the
mainstay cars in the Japanese custom-car scene. People
from all types of car hobbies used Civics as their base
platform. Civics were transformed into autocross cone
killers, subwoofer-booming trunk rattlers, 10-second
front-wheel-drive drag cars — and sometimes even a
hydraulic-equipped lowrider.
The little car could do it all. The Civic was a blank
automotive canvas waiting for geared artists.
After passing through the early 2000s era of “Fast &
Furious” body kits, and the more recent era of “stanced”
(cars lowered with very minimal clearance, with the lip
of the wheel near the edge of the fender) generation,
most of the original cars have been heavily modified.
Even the unmodified ones are approaching 250,000
miles — and many of those cars are adorned
with dings, dents — and sometimes rust.
They were the people’s car, and most of them
held up like tanks.
The special sixth gen
Our subject Civic is a sixth-gen car,
which was just a slight update of the fifth
generation.
The rear end of this car is only slightly
different from the generation before it, while
the front end comes with larger headlights.
Why ruin a good thing? The sixth-gen cars
received the “Si,” or Sports Injected, trim
level, which was one of Honda’s top-of-the-
1996 Acura Integra GS-R coupe
Lot 797, s/n JH4DC2399TS003954
Condition 2
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Not sold at $30,000
Kruse, Phoenix, AZ, 1/26/2006
SCM# 40645
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 77
line trims. This trim level was only available for the
1999–2000 year.
The Civic Si came with the very desirable 1.6-L
DOHC VTEC variable-cam-timing B-series engine
producing 160 hp at 8,000 rpm and 111 ft-lb at 7,000
rpm. Similar versions of this engine came in the secondgen
Integra GS-R, Honda del Sol VTEC and third-gen
Integra GS-R and Type R.
Other Si parts included stiffer springs, bigger roll
bars, a strut-tower brace, larger exhaust, chin spoiler,
power everything and “Si” badges around the car.
Si cars came in Black, Milano Red, and the debut of
Electron Blue Pearl.
This particular Civic
Let’s talk about our subject car.
We have a two-owner car that was part of a two-year
production run. The car sports a unique factory color.
The car is all original — rare for a sixth-gen Honda
Civic Si. Finally, there are only 5,600 miles on the clock.
This car is really the perfect storm of Civic desir-
ability.
These rare, special Civic Si cars might end up like
the Acura Integra Type R. We still haven’t seen the value
ceiling of those Acuras.
While our subject car is currently well sold, the mile-
age and condition could make it well bought — if the
Civic continues to rise in collector-car value.
If the Civic still doesn’t make sense to you as a col-
lector car, try and reach out to an enthusiast with a
well-built one — and then go for a ride. It could make a
believer out of you.
(Introductory description courtesy of Bring a Trailer.)
BRIAN BAKER is SCM’s office IT guru and resident Japanese-car
expert. His first car project was a 1988 Honda CrX, and he is an
avid importer of parts from Japan for a variety of vehicles.
2001 Subaru Impreza P1
Lot 24, s/n JF1GM8KDGYG003360
Condition 2
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Sold at $23,231
H&H, Woodcote Park, U.K., 6/6/2017
SCM# 6839488
2000 Subaru Impreza P1
Lot 114, s/n JF1GH8KDGYG003298
Condition 2Transmission:
5-speed manual
Sold at $29,354
H&H Auctioneers, Duxford, U.K.,
3/18/2020
SCM# 6929464
Chassis # location: Stamped on top
middle of the firewall
Engine # location: Front engine, below
head, next to transmission
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Club: Honda-Tech
Web: https://honda-tech.com
Alternatives: 1994–2001 Acura Integra
GS-R, 1997–2001 Honda Prelude,
1998–2001 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS
SCM Investment Grade: C
COMPS
NEXT GEN RISING SUN BRIAN BAKER
Recent Sales of Significant Japanese Cars that
are Market Leaders — or Future Collectibles
1972/1996 Datsun 240Z
# 33053. S/N HLS3068727. 70k miles. “2.4-liter L24 inline 6,
4-speed manual transmission, Nissan Vintage Restoration Program
Car, cosmetic, mechanical restoration in 1990s, red over black vinyl,
under-dash air conditioning system, 16-inch Panasport Wheels.”
Condition: 1-. SOLD AT $110,240. Bring a Trailer, 6/23/2020.
Brian’s take: This Datsun 240Z was part of a Nissan factory resto-
ration project to help promote the upcoming 350Z. Nissan took almost
40 original 240Z cars and restored them using NOS parts, with a few
modern enhancements such as updates on the brake pads. Then Nissan
sold them for under $30k. I covered these factory-restored cars that
sold in Japan in the April 2018 edition of “Rising Sun.” They had lower
mileage and fewer mods — and sold for $120k and $90k. There was
also another one that sold last year on Bring a Trailer for $101,240. A
Nissan factory-restored Datsun 240Z seems to be a $100,000 car these
days. Well sold and bought.
1993 Honda Civic Si
# 33178. S/N 2HGEH3387PH525517. 111,000 miles shown. “1.6-L
VTEC inline 4, 5-speed manual transaxle, Aztec Green Pearl, patterned
gray cloth interior, factory cassette player, power sunroof.” Condition:
1-. SOLD AT $11,025. Bring a Trailer, 6/25/2020.
Brian’s take: I covered a slightly newer 2000 Civic Si in this is-
sue’s Next Gen Profile, but another Civic Si worth mentioning sold as
well. The 1992–95 EG (Japan body code) hatchback is another popular
base for modifying. With its small-but-sleek shape, the car can seat
four somewhat comfortably. Think of this as the slightly updated CRX
with rear seating. Some might find this price high, especially current
Honda owners, as it was a long time coming. These cars won’t languish
at $1,200 forever, and the best examples will demand the most money.
This color is also a great throwback to the unique colors the early
1990s offered on cars vs. today’s sea of metallic silvers. I consider this
well sold for now.
1992 Honda Accord DX
# 32830. S/N 1HGCB7642NA086831. 60,000 miles. “Long-term
previous owner, 2.2-L F22A inline 4, 4-speed automatic transaxle,
white over blue velour, 14-inch steel wheels, T-belt/WP service in 2015,
owner’s manuals/keysets.” Condition: 2-. SOLD AT $6,227. Bring a
Trailer, 6/17/2020.
Brian’s take: While certain Civics are rising in value, not all
Hondas are collectible. The Honda Accord is the next model above the
Civic. These cars are slightly more refined, a little better on options and
they deliver more power when you need it. With features like that, why
wouldn’t it be more desirable? There are some enthusiasts out there
modifying Accords — but it is not at the same level of popularity as the
Civic. The DX is the lowest Accord trim level, which is why the front
and rear bumper aren’t painted to match the rest of the car. Factor
in the automatic transmission, and this car was swimming against
the tide. Still, this is a fairly high price for one of these, considering
what they sell for in private sales. Overall, this is not a very collectible
Japanese car. Well sold..♦
80 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 86
AUCTIONS IN THIS ISSUE
$16.4m RM Sotheby’s, Online p. 110
$5.7m Silverstone, Online p. 92
$2.3m Bonhams, Bicester, U.K. p. 102
$657k VanDerBrink, Independence, MN p. 124
Bring a Trailer p. 140
86
SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 87
A sampling of vehicles from the Marple Collection in
Independence, MN, which was heavily biased toward
Studebakers. The entire 114-vehicle collection was sold by
VanDerBrink Auctions, for a total of $657k.
B. Mitchell Carlson
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020
87
MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW
Buy/Sell/Hold
Get into the iconic Split-Window, get out of that shoebox, and keep your 300SL
around for the long haul
by Carl Bomstead
BUY: Chevrolet first offered a coupe version of the Corvette in 1963,
and the 10,594 produced created quite a stir. Designed by Larry Shinoda,
it featured retractable headlights, and doors that extended into the roof.
The two-piece rear split window was distinctive and certainly controversial,
with some owners even going to the extreme of replacing it with
a one-piece window.
Values of Corvettes, as a general statement, have been soft of late,
with the ’63 Split-Window a bit of an exception. Values are conditiondependent,
and which one of the four motors offered is underhood is a
major qualifier. Now, if it is one of the 198 Z06 Fuelies, then it’s a far
different discussion.
Prices for a good, driver-quality Split-Window have been hovering
BUY
around the low-to-mid six figures, and I see no reason — even in a questionable
market — for that to change. They are a solid buy with their
distinctive styling and should maintain their value for the foreseeable
future.
SELL: It’s hard to imagine a car-crazed teen, now collecting Social
Security, who did not lust after a Tri-Five Chevy, and for good reason.
They had the full shoebox look with a wraparound windshield and the
optional small-block 265 under the hood. The Bel Air, as the top of the
line, was first offered with four body styles, and in 1956 and 1957, five.
They were a sales sensation, with numbers jumping off the chart.
As a collector car, they have been extremely desirable over the de-
SELL
cades, but unless you have a Nomad or one of the 1957s with the optional
283 Corvette V8, the end of the line just may be in sight. The demographic
group that covets them already has scratched that itch or is past
the point of caring. Now, if one is in your garage and you still love it and
money is not a concern, hang tough. If finances are an issue, it just might
be the time to cash in.
HOLD: The godfather of the 300SL was New York Mercedes-Benz dis-
tributer Max Hoffman, who placed an initial order for 1,000 Gullwings.
Mercedes ended up making 1,400 of them. It was based on the W194
race car and had a tubular frame with power provided by a 3.0-liter fuelinjected
straight 6. Speeds were in the 160-mph range and it was, of
course, easily identified by its distinctive doors. The Roadster followed,
with an impressive price tag of $10,950, with 1,858 produced.
Over the past 10 to 15 years, the prices of both the Gullwing and
Roadster have steadily escalated. Where you could find a very respectable
Gullwing for under $200k in the late 1990s, that figure quickly
moved to seven figures. They were often referred to as the gold standard
of collector automobile values. Of late, they have not been immune to
the recent trials and tribulations of the fluctuating car market, but the
adjustments have been relatively minor.
If one has been on your list, this just might be the opportune time
HOLD
90
90 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
to take a look. If you are fortunate enough to have one in your garage,
don’t panic. As the dust settles, their value will come back, so hold the
course. ♦
Sports Car Market
Page 92
SILVERSTONE ONLINE
The May Live Online Sale
Call it a real Jaguar — a D-type replica topped all other lots at $475k
Company
Silverstone Auctions
Date
May 23, 2020
Location
Warwickshire, U.K.
Auctioneers
Nick Whale,
Jonathan Humber
Automotive lots sold/offered
77/87
Sales rate
89%
Sales total
$5,705,805
High sale
1962 Jaguar D-type replica
roadster, sold at $475,421
Buyer’s premium
10%, included in sold prices
($1.00 = £0.82)
High sale: 1962 Jaguar D-type replica, $475k
Report by Paul Hardiman; photos courtesy of Silverstone Auctions
Market opinions in italics
S
ilverstone’s first online auction from its base in Warwickshire was a lively affair
with a very healthy sell-through rate and some high prices achieved. Like
with Bonhams the following week, lots were available to view by appointment
before the sale, with social-distancing rules in force at the time.
After overcoming a few technical glitches, the view — live from Silverstone’s stor-
age facility in Ashorne — didn’t look very different from a normal sale — except there
was nobody in the room apart from Whale, Humbert and phone staff, plus some of the
cars, with Alpina BMW and M3 racer in front of the rostrum.
The video stream included several camera angles and cutaways to the cars, provid-
ing a more involving experience than a fixed viewpoint, though this is early days for all
players, and everyone is still learning. Online offers were via Proxibid, and at times,
proceedings sounded as chaotic as an Artcurial sale, with Nick Whale (who introduces
the cars), Jonathan Humbert (who in normal life auctions them) and phone jockeys
shouting over each other in an occasionally interrupted video feed.
A claimed 30% of the catalog sold over high estimate, including the Peugeot 205
T16 Group B rally car and the D-type Jaguar replica. The Peugeot was an Englishassembled
Works car, eventually selling for $410k (see profile, p. 74), and the short-
nose D, with the identity of a 1962 E-type so we can
legitimately call it a Jaguar (Browns Lane has become
rather sniffy about “re-creations” of late), was a beautifully
constructed tool-room copy made at the time that
one of the owner/builders owned an original. Bidding on
this was almost as protracted as on the 205 to end up at
$475k, pretty much near the ceiling for a historic-raceable
replica built to this standard. Likewise, a beautifully
made and very accurate GT40 using many original
parts hit $412k, having failed to sell at auction in 2019.
Other good sales were a Porsche RS 2.7 replica based
on a 1971 T, going for almost twice the expected price
at $197k, and a near-perfect E-type Series III roadster at
$145k. A 1982 Ferrari 512 BBi was on today’s money at
$230k, and a barn-find and dusty-but-sound 1987 Ford
Sierra RS Cosworth looked a good value at $44,194.
A good start. ♦
92 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 94
SILVERSTONE ONLINE
Apparently we now have to refers to these as “D-type in the style of
Jaguar” or some such to avoid outing Jaguar’s nose out of joint, and
technically to the licensing authorities, it’s a “rebodied E-type,” but
it’s no less real than a lot of cars out there.
2005 Jaguar D-type Replica Sports Racer
ENGLISH
#160-1951 JAGUAR XK 120 roadster.
S/N 671554. Silver/red leather. 3.4-L I6, 4-sp.
“Gently restored,” as the catalog had it, built
as a driver rather than a show queen and finished
in a non-Jag silver. Body and door fit
just okay. Not original engine or gearbox. New
leather in new color, as it was originally
trimmed in blue. Flashing indicators fitted.
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $194,186. Previous owner (died
2018) was chairman of the National Bank of
Dubai and kept the car in London. According
to SCM Platinum Auction Database, sold by
Silverstone for $198,824 (£155k) in November
2019 (SCM# 6916402), when we said, “Fair
money for such a well-preserved example.”
This time sold for £4k more, although not reflected
in dollar prices due to fluctuating exchange
rates.
SOLD AT $411,504. Previously unsold at
Bonhams’ Goodwood Members’ meeting sale
in April 2019, with estimate “refer dept.” On
the money for a tool-room replica, for which
the ceiling appears to be about £400k/$500k,
and similar price to the D-type earlier in the
sale. Less than a fifth of the price of the real
thing—and really cool.
#152-1971 LOTUS EUROPA coupe. S/N
SOLD AT $66,961. Supplied new in California,
then back to the U.K. 1990 prior to restoration.
Cheap XK at low estimate but a fair
price.
#120-1965 FORD LOTUS-CORTINA
2-dr sedan. S/N BA74EB5920. White/black
vinyl. RHD. Odo: 23,501 miles. 1.6-L I4, 4-sp.
Early Aeroflow car but still with A-frame and
considered very original—although sags a bit
to the right. Refurbed in New Zealand 2013.
Sills are a bit dinged, front valance a little
wavy. Some stitching coming adrift on driver’s
seat. Correct details in engine bay, including
original airbox. Cond: 3+.
741041P. Purple/cream leather. RHD. Odo:
85,172 miles. 1.6-L I4, 5-sp. Restored on replacement
chassis 2,000 miles ago, appears
quite original in a very period color, though
originally orange. Now with big-bore motor
by Richard Winter at Europa Engineering—
and a very shiny firewall, for some reason.
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $101,780. Said to be one of 46. All
the money, but these are collector’s items—
now and in the future.
TOP 10
#5
#116-2005 JAGUAR D-TYPE replica
Sports Racer. S/N 860552.
Green/green leather. RHD. 3.4-L I6,
4-sp. Very good short-nose D-type copy using
some original parts—including gearbox. One
of the owners/builders at the time owned XKD
544. Period dry-sump 3.4, correct Plessey
pump brakes. Ugly rollover bar can be removed.
Identity is from a 1962 E-type RHD
coupe. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $29,463. Somewhere between on
the money and quite well sold—depending on
your level of pessimism. Neither party should
be disappointed.
#128-1984 ASTON MARTIN V8 Series
SOLD AT $60,265. Suipplied new to California,
came to the U.K. in 2019. From same
collection as the 911s and the “Spectre” Land
Rover. Originality overcomes tiredness here,
so we’ll call it market correct.
TOP 10
#8
#146-1968 FORD GT40 replica
coupe. S/N N/A. White/black fabric.
RHD. 302-ci V8, 5-sp. Very accurate
copy built 2017–18 by Terry Drury, who
worked on the original GT40 project and previously
owned two real ones (#1005 and
#1073). Lots of real bits including four-bolt
Gurney-Weslake 302 and correct transmission,
so it’s really more of a continuation than a
re-creation. Pristine. No chassis number
quoted or visible on car. Cond: 2+.
94 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
IV coupe. S/N SCFCV81S3ETR12397.
Blue/Magnolia leather. RHD. Odo: 10,546
miles. 5.4-L V8, auto. Clean and tidy Oscar
India V8, with one registered owner and low
mileage. Still nice paint and sharp underneath.
Leather only lightly worn, excellent veneers.
With books, tools and warranty card. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $475,421. Apparently we now have
to refer to these as “D-type in the style of Jaguar”
or some such to avoid outing Jaguar’s
nose out of joint, and technically to the licensing
authorities, it’s a “rebodied E-type,” but
it’s no less real than a lot of cars out there.
Sold way over estimate, in a painfully slow
process to get it gone. Well sold considering
there’s a similarly good and accurate C-type
on the market for not much more than half of
this price.
#163-2005 ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH
S coupe. S/N SCFAC14335B501872.
Silver/black leather. RHD. Odo: 28,283 miles.
Fuel-injected 5.9-L V12, auto. One of 375
RHD S models, the more common 2+2, with
#161-2000 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL
R Mulliner coupe. S/N SCBZB26E9YCH63327.
Silver/Mulberry leather. RHD.
Odo: 39,300 miles. Turbocharged 6.8-L V8,
auto. Ultimate Conti, with wide body and
Turbo RT’s motor, in a special-order color
(and rather sudden purple interior). Unscuffed
and well kept all around, save for some wear
to steering-wheel rim. Full main dealer service
history. Cond: 2-.
SILVERSTONE ONLINE
threads hanging off the rear bench, and could
be original. Exhaust hangs low. Ran when
parked—seven years ago. French Carte Grise.
Cond: 3+.
Sold for an eye-popping price, as much as a fair long-hood 911, and
more than a respectable 3.0 SC or even a 3.2 Carrera.
1965 Porsche 912 coupe
rallied in the U.S. from 1984. In storage from
1989 following Woodner’s death. In New Zealand
2000–04. Bidding was very protracted on
this one, climbing painfully in £1,000 ($1,200)
increments, taking about 20 minutes to sell the
car for very good money. (See profile, p. 74.)
SOLD AT $8,303. According to the catalog,
Peugeot produced 3,015 timber-bodied conversions
on a slightly longer wheelbase than
the saloon between 1947 and 1949. Interesting
(and knowing Peugeot, probably more refined)
alternative to a Morris Minor Traveller at
about the same money.
TOP 10
#7
#149-1984 PEUGEOT 205 T16
Group B hatchback. S/N
VF3741R76E5100007. White/black
cloth. Turbocharged 1.8-L I4, 5-sp. Built by
Peugeot Sport U.K. under Des O’Dell. Now
updated with more modern spec. Signed by
Vatanen, Kankkunen, Biasion, Harri
Toivonen—and Hopkirk. Cond: 2-.
GERMAN
#169-1965 PORSCHE 912 coupe. S/N
454179. Eng. # 755311. Black/black vinyl,
check cloth. RHD. Odo: 11,865 miles. 1.6-L
H4, 5-sp. Five-dial, 5-sp SWB. Restored (sills,
floors and probably more, plus fuel tank)
about 10 years ago by Tower Bridge Porsche.
Still tidy and clean. New interior. Refurbed
alloys. Rebuilt engine is a replacement (from
1967, with aftermarket air filters), but original
casings are included. Cond: 2+.
(SCM# 6877221), which was, like this time,
almost exactly what had been spent on it, and
$51,903 with 11,556 miles in 2014 (SCM#
6710004), which barely covered its restoration
costs. No big losers this time, and most recent
seller has lost little more than the auction fees.
#117-1971 PORSCHE 911 RS 2.7 replica
coupe. S/N 91111200678. Green/black vinyl.
RHD. Odo: 8,017 km. Fuel-injected 2.7-L H6,
5-sp. Very good RS 2.7 tribute based on an
LHD 1971 D-series 911E, following a racing
accident. Built in Australia using a ’74 2.7 RS
engine and several claimed-original RS panels.
Last repaint 2012. Interior redone in the
U.K. later and still like new. 27 RST registration
not included, but sold later for $21,500.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $409,799. Built for Jon Woodner,
SOLD AT $54,238. U.S. model, to the U.K. in
2009. Sold for an eye-popping price, as much
as a fair long-hood 911, and more than a respectable
3.0 SC or even a 3.2 Carrera. Silverstone
has sold this before: $54,016 in 2018
SOLD AT $196,864. Came to the U.K. in
2013. From a 13-car collection that included
the Lotus Cortina and the “Spectre” Land
Rover. Sold for very strong money—more than
twice the pre-sale estimate. But having a real
RS engine, even from a later year, makes this a
special clone.
#118-1978 PORSCHE 911SC Targa. S/N
911830497. Blue/black vinyl & velour. RHD.
Odo: 23,980 miles. Fuel-injected 3.0-L H6,
5-sp. 1978 model year, good original order,
tidy and unworn and with good maintenance
history. Sits a little high. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $89,727. From same collection as
the RS replica (Lot 188). Previously stolen
when nearly new and recovered nine years
later with fewer than 1,000 miles added—or
an “interesting history,” as the catalog put it.
Strong money here, although low miles makes
a big difference, especially for 911SCs, which
are quite robust and generally enjoyed frequently.
#138-1983 BMW B9 Alpina 3.5 sedan.
S/N WBADA720507592598. Black/blue &
black velour. RHD. Odo: 134,756 miles. Fuelinjected
3.5-L I6, 5-sp. Sytner-built Alpina
E28, with rare manual box (18 out of 64).
Good all around, mostly original paint. Good
interior, with Alpina/Scheel seats almost unworn.
Cond: 2-.
98 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 100
SILVERSTONE ONLINE
modded with period alloys and deleted bumpers.
Lots of new panels, with new paint and
new interior. Sports a 1750 grille. Harvey Bailey
handling kit, Momo Vega alloys. Motor
hopped up to a claimed 180 hp with bumpy
cams. Fitted with air conditioning. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $46,872. From the collection of
musician Jay Kay, who regularly disposes of
his cars through Silverstone. Same price as a
decent E30 M3, not quite as sharp to drive but
far more collectible. Decisions....
#134-1987 FORD SIERRA RS Cosworth
hatchback. S/N WF0EXXGBBEGR93463.
White/Raven velour. RHD. Odo: 84,552 miles.
Turbocharged 2.0-L I4, 5-sp. Dusty and “asfound”
after 22 years in hibernation. New fuel
tank, water pump and cam belt since. Seats
slightly mildewed and a lot of cleaning-up
work to do, but it appears fundamentally
sound. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $62,943. Sold for $59,855 (then
£46,125) by Silverstone in July 2018 with
47,400 miles (SCM# 6877231), which was
only a few thousand more than a really nice
stock example. This time, it sold well over the
£38k–£42k ($46k–$51k) estimate at £5k more
than last time, although that’s not reflected in
the dollar prices. Well sold.
BEST
BUY
#171-1984 MASERATI MERAK SS
coupe. S/N AM122A611. Blue/blue
checkered cloth. RHD. Odo: 26,075
SOLD AT $44,194. Put away in 1998, disinterred
in 2020. About £15k–£20k ($18k–$24k)
under what a perfect one sells for, so plenty of
headroom for tidying and recommissioning.
Although the major mechanical stuff has been
done. A canny buy for someone who doesn’t
mind a bit of legwork.
#144-1987 BMW M3 Competition 2-dr
sedan. S/N WBSAK050X01892316.
White/black vinyl & suede. Fuel-injected
2.5-L I4, 5-sp. German-supplied car built into
a competition mount by Classic Heroes. Original
engine overbored, AP Racing competition
brakes, cage and harnesses, strut braces, Evo
spoilers and split-rim 17-inch BBSs. Cond: 2-.
km. 3.0-L V6, 5-sp. One of 312 SS, Boradashboard
cars. Original and unrestored.
Straight, may be mostly original paint. Front
trunk-lid fit not great, and chin spoiler a bit
scuffed and wavy. Cloth interior unworn. Dash
and instruments good, except clock slightly
mottled. Full service history, factory stickers,
original tools and jack, “wheelbarrow”-type
spare unused, two sets of keys. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $80,353. Fiat-Ferrari money, and
much rarer: With all the doodads, it’s a retailer’s
dream. How much would a 16,000mile
Vetroresina 308 cost?
#154-1985 FERRARI 308 GTS QV Spi-
SOLD AT $113,164. From the collection of
Jay Kay. Ran as course car on recent Rally
Isla Mallorca. Looks as if Mr. Kay just about
got his money back, which is a rare thing with
modified/competition cars.
ITALIAN
#170-1974 ALFA ROMEO GTV 2000
coupe. S/N 2414544. Red/black vinyl. RHD.
Odo: 47,439 miles. 2.0-L I4, 5-sp. Very
sharply restored (in 2011) and lightly resto-
100 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
SOLD AT $83,701. Early service recorded in
original service book, which comes with sale.
Quite good money for a 308 in today’s market.
♦
der. S/N ZFFLA13C000056315. Black/cream
leather. RHD. Odo: 60,257 miles. 3.0-L V8,
5-sp. One of 233 right-hand-drive QVs, with
a/c and optional roof spoiler. Straight and
shiny, wheels refurbed and new tires, leather
holding up well. Last cam-belt replacement
fewer than 150 miles ago in 2018. Cond: 2-.
Page 102
BONHAMS BICESTER, U.K.
May 2020 Live & Online
A Bedford Green Goddess, offered from the nearby Cornbury estate where it was
used to water plants, got away at a decent $18,078
Company
Bonhams
Date
May 30, 2020
Location
Bicester, U.K.
Auctioneers
Rob Hubbard,
Malcolm Barber
Automotive lots sold/offered
85/112
Sales rate
76%
Sales total
$2,258,209
High sale
1966 Aston Martin DB6 coupe,
sold at $180,783
Buyer’s premium
12.5%, included in sold prices
($1.00 = £0.81)
1956 Bedford RLHZ Green Goddess utility, $18k
Report and photos by Paul Hardiman
Market opinions in italics
rostrum for the duration of the sale, with car images on one side of the screen and no
cutaways. That might have had something to do with the auctioneers being recorded
15 miles away at the old Oxford sale rooms, which is better wired for the necessary
bank of phones. And unlike Silverstone’s technique of two auctioneers on the rostrum
corralling online bids, the Bonhams system “aggregates” offers before feeding them
to the auctioneer, giving the impression at times that phone bids were taking favor.
In practice, this was a sale of two halves. Bonhams MPH director Rob Hubbard
B
was first in to bat with the older, Beaulieu sale- and MPH-type cars, which included
quite a few unsold from MPH’s Bicester date in March. Bonhams Group Co-Chairman
Malcolm Barber took over to offer the more-expensive “traditional Bonhams”-type
lots, though when hammering the Honda Accord ($1,320), he felt duty bound to remind
us he’d once shifted a Ferrari 250 GTO for considerably more. Some of the cars were
surplus from the abortive Goodwood Members’ Meeting sale, plus a clutch of Aston
Martins that would have appeared at the annual May A-M auction if it had run.
Hubbard kept the tone upbeat, and the sell-through rate was very good for the first
half, with the notable exception of the Frazer Nash Boulogne, which stalled at $136k.
Highlights were a restored lights-behind-grille 80-inch Landie at $49k, a Bedford
Green Goddess that got away at the second attempt at a decent $18,078, and later on
102 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
onhams’ first attempt at an online sale proper went better than expected,
though with less of a sparkle — and fewer sales — than Silverstone’s maiden
outing the previous week. Bonhams’ cars had been physically viewable outdoors
at Bicester Heritage, although its single camera was focused on the
the only Lynx Eventer sold new with a 6.1-liter TWR
motor at $75,095.
In the later innings, the bigger cars didn’t do so well:
The only 911 of five offered to sell was the oldest, a 1979
SC at $39k, and only four of the 11 Astons sold — DB7
V12 Vantage at $25k, DB9 at $36,157, and a very usable
DB2/4 at $111,251, plus the DB6 that became the
high seller of the day at $181k. The much-promoted DB7
Zagato bid to only $260k against a pre-sale estimate of
$310k–$370k, and a V8 X-Pack that has twice before
appeared with Bonhams failed again despite a muchreduced
lower estimate of $285k. Ferraris were on the
nail, with the 208 GTB (unsold at MPH in March) at
$50,063 and a very low-mileage 360 Spider manual at
$91,782.
The
pre-sale
estimates were
realistic,
although
many cars were hammered light, making this at times
resemble a no-reserve sale. We’re still finding our way
in this restricted new world, but the good news is that it
looks as if bidders are increasingly comfortable buying
online. To unlock virtual buying’s full potential, slicker
TV-type production is going to be the key.♦
Page 104
BONHAMS BICESTER, U.K.
ENGLISH
#17-1927 MORRIS OXFORD sedan.
S/N 173833. Blue & black/blue cloth. RHD.
Odo: 25,161 miles. Flatnose Morris with unusual
tall body. Paint okay, radiator-shell plating
good, Motometer fitted. Very good blue
cloth interior. Cracked glass on oil-pressure
gauge. Tidy and completely stock engine. Vendor’s
score is 79/100. Cond: 3+.
vinyl all good. Tidy engine bay showing some
refurb work. Vendor score total: 65/100. Cond:
3+. SOLD AT $9,734. From a deceased person’s
estate. On the money for a post-vintage
Seven saloon, just a little higher than the
slightly-less-good 1934 Box saloon (Lot 14).
#15-1934 AUSTIN SEVEN APD military
tourer. S/N 276655. Blue & black/black
SOLD AT $12,516. Apparently built for a
London judge so he could travel in full robes,
and offered from the trade. Weird and rather
ungainly body keeps the price down below
that of a regular flatnose or Bullnose tourer.
#12-1933 AUSTIN SEVEN 2-dr sedan.
S/N 169665. Maroon & black/red vinyl. RHD.
Odo: 68,625 miles. Nicely usable steel saloon—after
it’s had the usual “light recommissioning.”
Straight body, older paint. Interior
SOLD AT $72,313. Well bought. Might have
fetched a little more with a Vanden Plas or
Gurney Nutting body, like the “Good Omens”
car we featured in “Road Value” last month,
and with leather rather than cloth seats. Last
in SCM’s database when it sold for $48,000
(SCM# 1539110) at Christie’s Pebble Beach in
1993—two cycles of boom-and-bust ago.
#30-1936 MG TA pre-production sports
tourer. S/N TA0267. Eng. # MPJG516.
Green/black cloth/green leather. RHD. The
17th TA Midget built. Older (early 2000s) restoration
still presenting well. Paint and chrome
good. Leather only lightly creased, with dash,
instruments and carpets good. Motor tidy, with
chrome rocker cover. Flashing indicators
added. Cond: 2-.
vinyl/black vinyl. RHD. Odo: 30,899 miles.
Rare derivative in nicely older-restored order.
Older repaint, seat bases re-covered. Vendor
score of 45/100, which looks rather pessimistic.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $11,125. Not road
registered until 1937, and no mention of any
history in service. Price is higher than the
saloons (Lots 12 and 16) due to rarer body.
#24-1935 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE Pillarless
coupe. S/N B129EJ. Blue & black/gray cloth.
RHD. Odo: 33,246 miles. Coachwork by Rippon.
Slightly unusual (and one-off) flared body
but still quite elegant. Dash and instruments
good, apart from cracked rev-counter glass.
Front seats getting a little threadbare, fitted covers
to bases. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $34,766. Given to William Brunell
and his daughter Kitty to take part in the MG
Car Club’s 1936 Continental Tour of Europe.
As well as being a noted photographer,
Brunell was the first Englishman to win the
Monte Carlo Rally (1926) and Kitty the only
woman to win the RAC Rally of Britain, in
1933. A significant car, which elevates its
price over later-production Midgets, but not
expensively bought.
104 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 106
BONHAMS BICESTER, U.K.
#31-1939 ALVIS SPEED 25 Special
roadster. S/N 20068. Blue/black leather.
RHD. Originally a Charlesworth-bodied saloon,
rebodied as a special roadster about
1971, broadly copying a Rivers Fletcher design.
Still presents well, with uncracked paint
and decent chrome. Catalog notes that factoryinbuilt
chassis-oiling system has been replaced
by grease nipples. Cond: 3+.
much money for a Series I. Let down by a few
clumsy details, such as later indicators and
mirrors, but a very fair deal for a driver.
#43-1952 LAND ROVER SERIES I
80-inch utility. S/N 26105302.
Green/buff canvas/green vinyl. RHD.
Odo: 155 miles. Fuel-injected 2.0-L I4, 4-sp.
Near-perfect early diesel. Just 10 miles out of
a nut-and-bolt restoration two years ago, in
very authentic factory finishes—not too shiny.
New interior vinyl and tilt top. Steering bossmounted
indicator switch still intact. Checker
plate on floor. Noted to pop out of first gear.
Vendor score of 76/100. Cond: 2-.
BEST
BUY
red vinyl. RHD. Odo: 49,307 miles. 848-cc I4,
4-sp. Early Mini from second year of production,
still with floor-button start. Lightly restored
(repainted), with new carpets but
original interior vinyl. Still with original driver’s
handbook. Cataloged chassis number is
wrong—transposes “5” for “S,” which is a
common error. Vendor’s assessment is 66/100.
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $66,751. In the vendor’s hands
since the mid-’70s. Not a lot of money for a
Speed 25 in any flavor.
#47-1949 LAND ROVER SERIES I 80inch
utility. S/N R06103874. Green/buff
canvas/green vinyl. RHD. Odo: 10,987 miles.
1.6-L I, 4-sp. Early lights-behind-grille
Landie, restored and correct in every detail.
With heater, and rear PTO. Vendor’s assessment:
81/100. Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $20,164. Much sharper than the
’51 (Lot 41) but not much more money, which
we can mostly put down to the diesel—rather
unlovely at this vintage. Given that they’re all
dog-slow anyway. A canny buy.
#46-1956 BEDFORD RLHZ Green Goddess
utility. S/N 7559. Green/black vinyl.
RHD. Odo: 3,587 miles. Fuel-injected 4.9-L
I6, 4-sp. Good functional order all around.
Rather than fire appliances as such, these were
devised as mobile pumps to provide water
supply following a nuclear attack, but have
been pressed into service as tenders during
fire-brigade strikes. Vendor’s assessment of
78/100. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $48,672. Top money, but these
early pull-ring SIs are the most collectible
Landies, and details such as the PTO can only
add to its appeal.
#41-1951 LAND ROVER SERIES I 80inch
utility. S/N 26102623. Green/buff
canvas/green vinyl. RHD. Odo: 37,442 miles.
1995-cc I4, 4-sp. Older refurb—“mellowed,”
as the catalog had it. Body straight, newish
tilt, new seat vinyl. Orange indicators added.
Vendor score of 60/100. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $16,688. One-family-owned (father
and daughter) from new. Sensible money, after
first-year cars were routinely hitting twice this
much—and more—a couple of years ago. Although
it may well pop up again soon at an
inflated retail price.
#96-1966 ASTON MARTIN DB6 coupe.
S/N DB62726R. Blue/gray leather. RHD.
Odo: 83,702 miles. 4.2-L I6, auto. Older
(1990s) restoration, some stone chips around
the front, chrome and brightwork all good.
Slight wear to driver’s seat. Now with modern
4-speed auto and motor banged out to 4.2.
Webasto a bit unfortunate, but it’s very “period.”
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $180,783. High spot of the auction.
Welcome to the New World Order.
#38-1973 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE con-
SOLD AT $18,078. The 900-odd Green Goddesses
were mothballed in 1968, although
occasionally pressed into service (hence the
typically low mileages). Since 2004, they have
been gradually sold off by the government and
there are now many in private hands, plus
plenty available from specialist dealers. This
was offered from the nearby Cornbury estate,
where it had been used for plant watering.
Offered but not sold at Bonhams MPH in
March. This time it got away for a decent
price.
SOLD AT $18,078. Offered but not sold at
Bonhams’ last MPH auction in March. Not
106 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
#45-1960 AUSTIN MINI Se7en Deluxe
2-dr sedan. S/N AA2S758304. Red/gray &
vertible. S/N FH44718. Green/black vinyl.
RHD. Odo: 36,000 miles. 1.3-L I4, 4-sp.
Straight and shiny. Decent body appears rustfree,
but a few corrosion spots in scuttle. Good
interior vinyl, carpets faded. Hard top from
new, so soft top and tonneau look unused.
Seller’s assessment is 72/100. Cond: 3+.
Page 108
BONHAMS BICESTER, U.K.
SOLD AT $7,648. Offered but not sold at
Bonhams’ March MPH sale against a
£6k–£10k estimate (Lot 28). This time bid to
near lower figure—fair money, comparable
with a clean Spridget.
#59-1977 FORD ESCORT RS2000 Cus-
tom 2-dr sedan. S/N GCATSL97706.
Red/black vinyl & velour. RHD. Odo: 17
miles. 2.0-L I4, 4-sp. Very sharp—just out of
restoration—and just about perfect, with
concours (i.e. slightly overdone) engine bay.
Presented with illegal black plates. Vendor’s
assessment is 100/100. Cond: 1.
headlamp washers, rear wiper and cruise control.
Clean and tidy: cookie-cutter alloys unscuffed,
seats show little wear. Engine rebuilt
30k miles ago. Decent, recent exhaust and
heat exchangers. Vendor rated this as “good”
but only scored it as 36/100. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $50,063. Came to the U.K. in 2014.
Bid to $46,052 at Bonhams’ 2018 Goodwood
Festival of Speed auction (SCM# 6877044),
not sold at Bonhams’ MPH date in March. A
Ferrari for the price of an air-cooled 911...
but with the little engine, it needs to be.
#111-2001 FERRARI 360 Modena Spi-
der. S/N ZFFYT53C000123797. Silver/black
cloth/maroon leather. RHD. Odo: 4,740 miles.
Fuel-injected 3.6-L V8, 6-sp. Good and well
kept. Low mileage with full service history
from supplying dealer HR Owen. Red calipers.
With books and tools. Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $39,041. Sold right (at £31,583)
for model, year and mileage. Listed for sale at
an independent Porsche specialist for £44,995
($55,619)....
ITALIAN
NOT SOLD AT $60,492. Previously offered
but unsold at Bonhams MPH’s first closeddoors
sale at Bicester in March. Sold here for
very good money. Oh...originally listed as sold
at an over-estimate (and over market price)
£48,937 ($60,492), but it now appears not to
have done. If it looks too good to be true, it
probably is....
#63-1986 LYNX EVENTER TWR HE
wagon. S/N SAJJNAEW3BC130568.
Red/cream leather. RHD. Odo: 71,798 miles.
Fuel-injected 6.1-L V12, auto. XJ-S-based
station wagon built in limited numbers (under
70) by the people who brought you new Dtypes
and XKSSs. This is number 35 and believed
the only Eventer with in-period TWR
upgrades. Very good all around, with usual
small scuffs and scrapes on bumper corners.
Full service history from new. New walnut
and headlining, leather okay. Engine rebuilt in
2012. Speedo changed at 16,976 miles, so real
mileage is almost 89k. Cond: 2+.
#103-1976 LAMBORGHINI URRACO
P300 coupe. S/N 20168. Silver/black leather.
3.0-L V8, 5-sp. Older resto now nicely mellowed.
Ziebarted from new, so it should be
rust-free. Original leather lightly worn and
creased. Mouse fur okay on dash—just a little
wrinkly at corners, as usual. Vendor’s score is
99/100, which is slightly presumptuous. But it
is a nice example of a rare junior supercar,
with handbook and two sets of keys. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $91,782. Second owner since six
months old. Strong 2016/2017-ish money but
with low mileage, great history. It’s also a
manual, of which only 670 Spiders were built:
a retailer’s dream.
AMERICAN
#32-1937 FORD V8 woodie wagon. S/N
790097. Cream/beige vinyl. RHD. Odo:
50,023 miles. Older paint. Refurbed timber in
fair shape including roof lining, although door
panels are discolored. Catalog notes small area
of woodworm to the nearside rear pillar and
the door seals have perished. Older vinyl
retrim. Dash and instruments good. Mud and
snow tires on rear, in keeping with the “country
estate” look. Vendor score of 59/100.
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $73,704. Described as a 1976, but
actually built May 1975. Sold for around the
price of a contemporary 308 GTB, which feels
fair.
#102-1981 FERRARI 208 GTB coupe.
S/N F106CB33911. Red/black leather. Odo:
65,200 miles. 2.0-L V8, 5-sp. Italian-market
tax-buster model with small-bore version of
the 308’s V8: only 160 built. Tidy, engine rebuilt
in 2015. Vendor’s assessment is 65/100.
Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $75,095. Very strong price, but it is
a one-off, or in Bonhams-speak, “It’s the only
one I’ve got today, sir.” One that you really
can call a “unique opportunity.”
GERMAN
#112-1979 PORSCHE 911SC coupe. S/N
9119302495. Blue/black vinyl & velour. RHD.
Odo: 163,924 miles. Fuel-injected 3.0-L H6,
5-sp. With electric windows and mirrors,
108 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
SOLD AT $27,813. Catalog doesn’t tell us
whether this is a Model 74 (60 hp) or 78 (85
hp), but probably the former. Chassis number
should probably start 18F. Two or three of
these have gone through U.K. auctions in the
past couple of years, but I can’t find them all.
Last one in the SCM database was 18F3753057
at $40,940 at Goodwood in 2004,
while Bonhams sold another (chassis 3261)
for £52,100 ($78k) at Goodwood in 2010. This
was significantly less but cosmetically poorer
than either. ♦
Page 110
Online Only: Driving Into Summer
We now know that buyers are willing to spend over $2m for the right cars in an
online sale — it happened twice here
Company
RM Sotheby’s
Date
May 21–29, 2020
Location
Online
Automotive lots sold/offered
119/193
Sales rate
62%
Sales total
$16,371,410
High sale
2003 Ferrari Enzo, sold at
$2,640,000
Buyer’s premium
10%, included in sold prices
High seller: 2003 Ferrari Enzo, trading hands for $2.64m
Report by Carl Bomstead; photos courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
Market opinions in italics
R
M Sotheby’s, dealing with the new realities of the auction world, hosted
their first specifically curated online auction, “Driving into Summer,” which
opened for bidding on May 21 and had the closings May 28–29. Their March
Palm Beach auction had been quickly converted to an online format when
gatherings were restricted, and they have several more online events in the works.
They offered 193 cars and stated that 550 bidders were registered, with a quarter
of them being new to RM Sotheby’s. The results were impressive, with 119 of the cars
finding new homes with a total selling price of $16,371,410. A race-bred 1985 Ferrari
288 GTO set an online record when it sold for $2,310,000, but that was quickly eclipsed
when the starring 2003 Ferrari Enzo realized $2,640,000.
The closings were staggered and went into overtime when a last-minute bid came
in, resulting in closings being extended. As such, it was rather confusing when several
closings took place on top of each other. The auction company would, of course, like
you to bid early and bid often, but most savvy bidders waited until the end.
The vehicle descriptions were inconsistent; many consisted of just a few bullet
points or a boilerplate description of the marque. Many were not posted until the auction
was well under way. The extensive photos were, on the other hand, complete and
were explicit in pointing out the most minor of flaws.
Supercars, as has been the case in most recent auctions, were well represented.
A trio of Ford GTs — a 2017, a 2005 and a 2006 Heritage Edition, all found new
homes. The 2017 GT was finished in Triple Yellow with
Lightning Blue stripes. Powered by a twin-turbocharged
V6, it realized a market-correct $836,000. The final
Heritage GT built for 2006 brought $385,000, and that
four-option 2005 GT sold for $290,000.
A favorite was a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5
cabriolet that was finished in factory-correct Light Ivory
with burgundy leather interior. It was once owed by
Arizona politician John Pritzlaff and was retained by his
family until 2016. It sold as expected for $297,000. A
1967 427 Corvette convertible with a stinger hood and
factory air realized a realistic $121,000, and a cute-asheck
1964 Fiat Jolly re-creation doubled its low estimate
when it sold for $77,000.
The ability to sell $16 million worth of vehicles sight
unseen speaks to the reputation of RM Sotheby’s. Was
the format perfect? No, but with online events scheduled
into August, they will build on their strengths and subdue
the shortcomings. ♦
110 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 112
ENGLISH
#233-1934 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE drophead
coupe. S/N B93AE. Eng. # U6BF. Red &
maroon/red leather/red leather. RHD. Odo:
72,089 km. Coachwork by Park Ward. Restored
in the early 1990s and visually maintained
since. Has painted radiator shell and enclosed,
rear-mounted spare wheel. Engine bay clean
and tidy. Pleasing patina on leather interior. A
few nicks and chips on paint. Well-documented
chain of ownership. Hard to get my head
around two-tone-red Bentley. Cond: 2-.
NOT SOLD AT $455,000. This was last seen
at RM Sotheby’s 2019 Amelia Island sale,
where it realized $445,999 (SCM# 6897520).
Prior to that it sold at Barrett-Jackson’s 2013
January sale for $368,500 (SCM# 5617292).
Seller was hoping to get a return on his restoration
bills, but that’s not happening here. An
impressive Rolls-Royce, but I’m afraid seller
will be upside down for a while.
NOT SOLD AT $110,000. You always think
of Bentleys as subtle elegance—at least I do—
and in-your-face two-tone red does not fit the
image. Perhaps the bidders agreed, as this
stalled out well below the reserve. I say blame
it on the livery.
#301-1959 ROLLS-ROYCE SILVER
CLOUD I drophead coupe. S/N LSMH21.
Alice Blue/dark blue Everflex/blue leather.
Odo: 48,289 miles. 6.2-L I6, auto. Called an
“adaption,” as H.J. Mulliner converted a steel
saloon into a 2-door convertible. A recent restoration
at a documented cost of $310k. A respray
in Alice Blue with new Connolly hides. Has
original engine and rare factory Continental
Touring Kit. One of only 13 examples produced,
with 10 in left-hand-drive configuration.
A stunning Rolls-Royce. Cond: 1-.
#147-1965 SUNBEAM TIGER Mk IA
custom convertible. S/N B382000187. Competition
Yellow/black canvas/black vinyl. 347ci
V8, 5-sp. A mild custom with high-back
bolstered seating, wheels and custom engine
bay with Sunbeam air cleaner. Also with Burlwood
dash featuring Daytona gauges, Wilwood
four-wheel disc brakes and a steel hood
with functional air scoop. American Racing
wheels. Bold Competition Yellow has been
properly maintained. but with a few minor
chips. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $60,500. Last seen at the 2018
Kruse Waxahachie, TX, auction where it was a
no-sale at $70k (SCM# 6882184). A year earlier,
at the same event, it was acquired for
$89,250 (SCM# 6851057). This Sunbeam Tiger
is heading in the wrong direction. Looks
like the seller ate about $30k in fewer than
three years of ownership. The bold livery just
does not look right on a Tiger, so maybe that’s
the main culprit. New owner can afford a
respray at the price paid here.
#239-1965 MORGAN 4/4 Series V road-
ster. S/N B1040. Westminster Green/black
leather. Odo: 18,225 miles. 1.5-L I4, 4-sp.
Sports a recent restoration at a documented
cost of $63k. It was noted then that no wood
required replacing. Original motor, top and
side curtains. A U.S.-spec example with
chrome wires, heater, disc brakes and Lawrence
radiator. Low miles stated to be actual.
Known ownership trail from new. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $57,200. This was last seen at RM
Sotheby’s Palm Beach online auction in March
of this year. It failed to sell when bid to
$50,000 (SCM# 6931049). A much more realistic
bid here, and that’s why it all came together.
All should be pleased with this result.
Seller gave a bit, and buyer is all set for the
next All British Field Meet.
#323-1967 AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000 Mk
III BJ8 convertible. S/N HBJ8L41744. British
Racing Green/black vinyl/black leather.
Odo: 63,526 miles. 2.9-L I6, 4-sp. Heater,
power brakes and overdrive transmission standard.
This example equipped with Lucas driving
lights and trunk rack. Finished in its
second coat of British Racing Green, according
to catalog. Attractive burl-wood dash. Restoration
to high standard and well maintained
since. No major issue with paint or bodywork.
Interior in good order. Based on extensive
photos, a solid example. No mention of
BMIHT certificate. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $55,000. The final year for the Big
Healey. Little changed from prior years, but
the Mk III increased the horsepower to 150.
This was last seen at Barrett-Jackson’s October
2016 Las Vegas auction, where it realized
112 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 114
$46,200 (SCM# 6810924). Sold here for a
very realistic number considering the condition.
Finished in the right livery. All should be
pleased here. RM Sotheby’s, at their March
Amelia Island sale, sold an exceptional example
for $72,800. So, based on that sale, this
was well bought indeed.
GERMAN
#234-1957 BMW ISETTA 300 microcar.
S/N 504962. Two-tone blue/gray fabric. Odo:
2,070 miles. 298-cc single cylinder, 4-sp. This
example wears an older restoration and is finished
in factory-correct Pastellblau and Bayerische
Blau. Has front and rear bumper guards,
as well as luggage rack. Cond: 2.
done. The novelty wears off in a hurry, so use
and have fun while you can.
#310-1965 PORSCHE 356SC cabriolet.
S/N 162089. Eng. # 801631. Irish Green/tan
fabric/Fawn leather. 1.6-L H4, 4-sp. Powered
by replacement 1600 Super 90 motor with original
gearbox. Original, damaged 1600 SC block
included in sale. Ordered with Blaupunkt radio
and chrome luggage rack. Older respray and
redyed seating acceptable, but undercarriage
has not been touched in years. Complete with
Kardex, tool roll and jack. Sold new to serviceman
stationed in France. Cond: 3+.
tear. Interior with patina associated with age
and use. Cond: 3+.
NOT SOLD AT $46,000. A decent weekend
driver that was recently acquired by the seller.
Seems like he was looking for a quick hit, but
it’s not happening here. Market is down a bit
on the Pagodas, but the bid here was well off
the mark. Even with the noted issues, another
$10k was within reason.
NOT SOLD AT $100,000. Not being powered
by the motor it was born with makes this a
tough sell—a Sunday driver at best. Cost to
repair the damaged motor quickly flips you
upside down, so price bid is market correct
considering the issues. Seller had a different
point of view.
SOLD AT $31,900. Renzo Rivolta licensed
the production rights for his Iso Isetta bubble
car to BMW, and it was their salvation. BMW
sold 160,000 Isettas, serving both Rivolta and
BMW quite well. Cute as heck, and sold for
the going rate. Not the most flattering livery,
but to each their own. You can buy a junker
for $6k and spend $30k more and a lot of
heartache getting to this point—I know I did—
or go the smart way and buy one already
#311-1970 MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL
convertible. S/N 11304412015958. Beige
Gray/Tobacco Brown MB-Tex. Odo: 43,371
miles. Fuel-injected 2.8-L I6, auto. A U.S.spec
Pagoda that’s been well preserved and
properly maintained. Fitted with optional automatic
transmission and dealer-installed a/c.
Reportedly driven very little in past two years.
Has Becker stereo, tool roll and records. Paint
appears acceptable, with a little road wear and
#246-1989 PORSCHE 911 Speedster.
S/N WP0EB0917KS173811. Guards
Red/black leather. Odo: 41 miles. Fuel-injected
3.2-L H6, 5-sp. A limited-edition 911
that was produced to celebrate the famed 356
Speedsters of the 1950s. Wore distinctive,
lightweight coachwork with wide-body Turbo
stance. Only 819 were destined to the United
States. Paint and interior appear to be as-new.
Retains original sales invoice and Porsche
CoA. Recent service of as-new 1989 Speedster.
Cond: 1.
SOLD AT $220,000. An out-of-the-box 911
that sold for a very realistic number. New
owner must decide whether to keep low mileage
or have some fun and watch the car depreciate.
Hard to just look at it when all that
performance awaits.
ITALIAN
#168-1958 FERRARI 250 GT coupe.
S/N 0861GT. Black & silver/green
leather. Odo: 5,505 miles. 3.0-L V12,
4-sp. Coachwork by Ellena. Long-term ownership
by RM specialist and racer Jack Boxstrom.
One of just 50 examples built.
Restoration completed in 2017 and some mechanical
work done last year. Additional recent
restoration freshening by marque specialist.
Retains engine and gearbox with which it was
born. Desirable styling, but gets lost in the
shuffle with other, more-elegant designs.
Cond: 1-.
TOP 10
#4
114 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 116
Seller must be sick with regret, as the price paid here covered a
fraction of the restoration cost. On the other hand, the buyer is doing
a happy dance, as he found a true bargain.
1966 Autobianchi Bianchina Panoramica
SOLD AT $671,000. This 250 GT is no
stranger to the auction world. Last appeared
at Bonhams’ 2019 Carmel sale, where it failed
to sell when bid to $560,000 (SCM# 6907185).
In January 2012 at RM’s Phoenix sale, it was
again a no-sale at $400,000 (SCM# 6759350).
At RM’s October 2012 auction in London, it
did sell for $378,939 (SCM# 5315631). Went
the other way here and found a new home at a
strong but realistic amount.
BEST
BUY
#214-1966 AUTOBIANCHI BIANCHINA
Panoramica. S/N
120B097601. White & red/red vinyl.
499-cc 2-cylinder, 4-sp. Recently received a
body-off restoration with period-correct bicolor
livery. Rides on Fiat 500 chassis. Made
famous when appeared in “How to Steal a
Million” with Audrey Hepburn. Has roof rack
and wicker picnic basket. Very well restored
and cute as heck. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $57,200. I hope the seller had a
bunch of fun off-roading his Ferrari 308, as it
cost him a bunch of money making the conversion
($26k, according to the catalog). Assume
new owner has the same interests, as I don’t
know what else you can do with it.
TOP 10
#2
#279-1985 FERRARI 288 GTO
coupe. S/N ZFFPA16B000055223.
Eng. # 00137. Red/black leather. Odo:
23,555 km. Turbocharged 2.9-L V8, 5-sp.
Twin IHI turbochargers with separate intercoolers
and electronic fuel injection. Offered
with air and power windows. Bolster worn on
driver’s side and several minor paint touchups
and nicks. Never certified in U.S., although
some arrived via the gray market.
Interesting tale as to how it was stolen in
Cannes, France, and found in Phoenix, AZ.
Cond: 2.
NOT SOLD AT $2,200,000. Another halo car
from Ferrari; produced between 1995–97. In
1997, Mike Tyson’s F50 sold for $3.9m at the
Amelia Island sale, and every owner has been
trying to hitch a ride on the rainbow since.
Ain’t going to happen, but they keep turning
down reasonable offers. Hard to believe the
mileage here is considered high. Offer here
seemed most reasonable, but no deal.
TOP 10
#1
#294-2003 FERRARI ENZO coupe.
S/N ZFFCW56A030133033.
Red/black leather. Odo: 1,250 miles.
Fuel-injected 6.0-L V12, 6-sp. Penned by designer
Ken Okuyama during lunch break.
Powered by Tipo F140B V12 that delivers 651
horsepower. Optioned with two-tone red, 3-Dfabric
seat inserts. Top speed of 218 mph and
0–60 in 3.3 seconds. Utilized many F1 innovations,
with only 399 produced. Properly serviced
and two owners from new. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $10,175. The Panoramica was the
estate, or station wagon, body for the Bianchina.
Seller must be sick with regret, as the
price paid here covered a fraction of the restoration
cost. On the other hand, the buyer is
doing a happy dance, as he found a true bargain.
Will be a hit at the next Italian-car event
or a hoot just puttering around town. A bargain
and a half—well bought.
#171-1975 FERRARI 308 GT4 DINO
Safari coupe. S/N 10572. Red & black/black
leather & corduroy. Odo: 2,082 miles. 2.9-L
V8, 5-sp. A Dino 308 that has been converted
to “Safari” off-road specifications. Custom
front bumper with caged rear bumper. Quad
Hella driving lights added. Window surrounds
finished in black satin. Custom Corsa Velocita
wheels. Reproduction toolkit. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $2,310,000. The 288 GTO was developed
to compete in the FIA Group B, but
class was canceled in 1987. Ferrari built 272
road-going examples and sold them to their
most loyal customers. For a brief moment, this
was the most expensive car sold at a dedicated
online auction. Repaired damage to front valance.
Recent documented service. Appeared
at 2018 Cavallino Classic. Sold for anticipated
amount, but still impressive for an online
event. (See profile, p. 62.)
#174-1995 FERRARI F50 convertible.
S/N ZFFTA46B000103114. Red/black leather.
Odo: 3,351 miles. Fuel-injected 4.7-L V12,
6-sp. The second of only 349 F50s produced.
Carbon-fiber tub. Capable of 0–60 in 3.8 seconds.
Top speed of over 200 mph. Naturally
aspirated. A relative high-mileage example,
but surprising it’s not higher. A few minor
scratches, but nothing serious. Ferrari Classiche
certified. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $2,640,000. The most expensive
car ever sold in a dedicated online-only collector-car
auction, eclipsing the 288 GTO 15
lots earlier. Proves it can be done with full
documentation and a reputable auction company.
This sale changes the car-auction world
from this day forward.
TOP 10
#6
BEST
BUY
#225-2020 LAMBORGHINI
AVENTADOR SVJ coupe.
S/N ZHWUM6Z-
D7LLA09029. Blu Nereid/Nero Cosmus
leather. Odo: 250 miles. Fuel-injected 6.5-L
V12, semi-auto. Based on the 10-year-old
Aventador platform, the SVJ offers incredible
performance. The V12 now makes 729 horsepower,
a 20-hp bump over the SV. Equipped
here with multi-function steering wheel, style
package, telemetry system and badging. Options
added $80k to the package. One of just
900 produced. MSRP of over $600,000.
Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $467,500. No appreciation here, as
the seller lost a bunch based on the MSRP.
The 250 miles driven were expensive miles
indeed. Every transaction makes someone
happy, and the buyer is all smiles. Saved a ton
based on the original sticker.
116 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 118
AMERICAN
#274-1934 LINCOLN MODEL KB dualcowl
sport phaeton. S/N KB3358. Cream &
burgundy/tan fabric/tan & maroon leather.
Odo: 23,969 miles. One of two dual-cowl
sport phaetons built to special order by Lincoln’s
in-house custom body shop. Discovered
and restored in late ’70s and visually maintained
since. Paint showing signs of age and
use, and leather seating has mild patina. Instruments
on dash worn and car just a bit tired.
A wonderful tour car. Cond: 2-.
No glaring issues to note, as it has seemingly
aged gracefully. A wonderful CCCA CARavan
touring car. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $49,500. This 1950 Hudson was
last seen at RM’s January 2014 Arizona sale,
where it realized $46,750 (SCM# 6661335).
Not much has happened in the ensuing six
years, but the seller did upgrade it a bit and
had years of pleasant motoring, we hope.
Price paid in line with today’s market—especially
considering the needs.
SOLD AT $143,000. Price paid here hit the
sweet spot. A delightful Full Classic that can
be driven without concern. Will keep up with
freeway traffic and just might win an award or
two at local events. Price paid here was fair
all around.
#266-1950 HUDSON COMMODORE
NOT SOLD AT $100,000. A frequent flyer on
the auction circuit lately. Last seen at RM Sotheby’s
2019 Fort Lauderdale auction, where
it realized $90,200 (SCM# 6901322). Prior to
that, it was a no-sale when bid to $90,000 at
RM’s 2018 Hershey sale (SCM# 6883931).
Way back when, it failed to sell at $140,000 at
the eBay/Kruse NJ February 2002 sale. Based
on the last two no-sales, this was a step in the
right direction. Based on condition, at this
price, the deal should have come together.
#163-1935 CADILLAC 355D convert-
ible. S/N 3107042. Blue/tan fabric/tan leather.
Odo: 23,167 miles. Delightful coachwork on
136-inch-wheelbase Series 20. One of about
10 remaining. Owned by several prominent
collectors. Fitted with 1934 “biplane” bumpers.
An older restoration that still shows well.
Brougham convertible. S/N 50490375. Dark
blue/black canvas/red leather. Odo: 72,753
miles. 254-ci I8, 2-bbl, 3-sp. The top of the
line for 1950, with about 425 produced. Has
sun visor, power windows and top, and BorgWarner
overdrive. Picked at over the years,
with a new top and red leather seating, but
engine bay has not been touched in years.
Some noticeable dents and dings in trim. Hood
badge crazed and lower side trim damaged.
Older respray. Halfway there, but still lots of
work to do here. Cond: 3+.
#149-1957 OLDSMOBILE SUPER 88
Holiday 2-dr hard top. S/N 578C08853.
White/red & white leather, black fabric. Odo:
86,174 miles. 371-ci V8, 3x2-bbl, auto. Powered
by the famed J-2 motor that was too hot
for NASCAR. Stated to be one of 750 so
equipped for 1957. Has three 2-barrels and
batwing air cleaners. Restored some years
back and properly maintained since. Attractive
tri-tone interior and wire wheels. Features
clock and Wonder Bar radio. An attractive
offering. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $55,000. This was last seen at Mecum’s
January 2017 Kissimmee sale, where it
realized $69,300 (SCM# 6824475) and prior
to that is sold for $77,000 (SCM# 6753425) at
Barrett-Jackson’s April 2012 event. With a few
exceptions, the ’50s car market is a bit soft,
and that was reflected here. Seller took what
they could get and moved on. They made the
right decision, as predicting the American car
market is like tacking Jell-O to the wall. On
the other hand, seems a solid buy and new
owner should be pleased.
#212-1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD con-
vertible. S/N D7FH182453. Dusk Rose/Dusk
Rose & off-white vinyl. Odo: 38,316 miles.
312-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. An older restoration
that has been visually maintained. Finished in
attractive Dusk Rose, but according to data
plate, was born a Raven Black car. Fitted with
power windows, seat, steering, brakes, and
a/c. Also aftermarket AM/FM radio. Offered
with porthole removable hard top. An attractive,
driver-quality T-bird. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $30,800. Base-level Thunderbirds
are fairly predictable, with the E- and F-codes
bringing the premium. Price paid here was
right where it should be, even if the estimates
were a bit aggressive. Fairly bought and properly
sold.
118 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 120
#192-1962 SHELBY COBRA Continua-
tion roadster. S/N CSX8970. Black/red
leather. Odo: 10 miles. 289-ci V8, 4-bbl, 5-sp.
One of 50 50th Anniversary 289 8000-series
Cobras built. All were finished in black and
are listed in the Shelby Registry. They sold out
in 48 hours. This example with only 10 test
miles since built. Titled as 1962 but built in
2011. Has fiberglass body and improved cooling.
Four-wheel disc brakes and chromed 15inch
wheels. A new car! Cond: 1.
SOLD AT $88,000. The Rampside and Loadside
were practical vehicles and were a solid
value. Most were used up as workhorses, so to
find one restored to this level is refreshing.
Another well-restored Rampside sold at Scottsdale
last year for $77k, so this one moves the
bar up a few notches. Are Corvairs gaining
new respect?
#285-1965 FORD MUSTANG convert-
SOLD AT $148,500. A “new” 289 Cobra at
less than $150k. Sounds like a heck of a buy.
Has the look and acquired at a fraction of the
cost of an original one. Well bought indeed.
#120-1963 CHEVROLET CORVAIR 95
Rampside pickup. S/N 3R124F107899. Red &
white/black & tan fabric, red vinyl. Odo:
87,315 miles. 145-ci H6, 4-sp. An unusual
pickup with rear tailgate and fold-down ramp
on side. A quality restoration and finished in
bold red-and-white livery. Powered by aircooled
6-cylinder motor with optional 4-speed.
Very little observably wrong: a minor scratch
on glass, a few small chips in paint, a ding on
tailgate rubber. A desirable Corvair regardless
of what Ralph Nader said. Cond: 1-.
ible. S/N 5F08K278952. Wimbledon
White/white vinyl/blue vinyl. Odo: 3,934
miles. 289-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. A documented
K-code Pony, with a number of desirable options
including a/c, Rally Pac gauges and
dealer-installed luggage rack. Engine bay
sparkles, but there are a few minor rock chips
and scratches on hood. Window trim also
scratched. A solid presentation. Cond: 2.
NOT SOLD AT $53,000. Seller was looking
for #1 money, but he had a solid #2 car. Price
bid should have gotten the job done considering
the Mustang had a few cosmetic issues. In
this market, the seller should have taken the
money and not looked back.
TOP 10
#9
#193-1965 SHELBY COBRA Continuation
roadster. S/N CSX4425.
Dark blue/black leather. Odo: 2 miles.
496-ci V8, 4-bbl, 5-sp. A CSX4000-series Cobra
that was built in 2017 but is titled as 1965,
which makes it smog-exempt. Only two miles
on odometer since new. Ordered with fullleather
interior and Tremec 5-speed manual.
Aluminum bodywork with 496-ci aluminum
V8 under the hood. A rare non-hood-scoop
example. In as-new condition. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $396,000. Another CSX4000 was a
no-sale at RM Sotheby’s recent Florida online
auction when bid to $80,000. These usually
sell for a tenth of the price of a real one, so if
you are a wannabe, then this is the ticket.
Well, this one with only two miles on the clock
was an exception. It blew the doors off the
$225k–$275k estimates, but if the new owner
drives it, the premium goes away. But how do
you just look at a Cobra with a 650-horse motor
under the hood that’s raring to go?
#150-1967 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
convertible. S/N 194677S116614. Ermine
White/white vinyl/red vinyl. Odo: 1,152 miles.
427-ci 390-hp V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. An NCRS 2006
Top Flight winner and a 2016 Bloomington
Gold appearance. Equipped with a/c, factory
AM/FM radio with power antenna. Red
stinger hood. Powered by 427-ci big block,
with power steering and brakes. Observable
minor tear in vinyl top. Side exhaust and Redline
tires. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $121,000. This was last seen at
Motostalgia’s October 2017 Waxahachie, TX,
auction where it sold for $131,250 (SCM#
6851051). The market has shifted a bit since
the Texas sale, but solid cars still sell for the
right money. This checked all the boxes and
deservedly sold at the high end of expectations.
Well sold, but also reasonably purchased.
120 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 122
An impressive car at an impressive price. Seller doubled his money in
three short years. Sold to those who Ford determined would provide
maximum exposure.
2017 Ford GT coupe
#125-1969 FORD MUSTANG Mach 1
fastback. S/N 9R02R141578. Acapulco
blue/white vinyl. Odo: 53,171 miles. 428-ci
V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Restored 10 years ago and
properly maintained since. Powered by datecode-correct
R-code 428 Cobra Jet V8, meaning
that it’s a replacement motor. Attractive
Acapulco Blue livery that is in good order.
Complete with Marti Report. Has shaker hood
and rear spoiler. Hurst shifter linked to
4-speed. Engine bay appears tired and neglected.
A solid example, but replacement motor
is a drawback. Cond: 1-.
#245-1970 SHELBY GT500 convertible.
S/N 9F03R482603. Grabber Yellow/black
vinyl/black knit & vinyl. Odo: 2,163 miles.
428-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. One of only six
GT500s finished in Grabber Yellow for 1970,
and one of only 54 convertibles equipped with
428 Cobra Jet motor and C6 automatic. Recent
restoration with limited use since. Has interior
décor group, front disc brakes and tilt-away
wheel. Documented with Deluxe Marti Report.
Underrated at 335 horsepower, with 400
being closer to the actual number. A strong
presentation. Last gasp for Shelby Mustang
for a number of years. Cond: 1-.
P90S26Y401898. Heritage Blue &
Epic Orange/Ebony leather. Odo: 5,401 miles.
5.4-L supercharged V8, 6-sp. One of 343 Heritage
GTs with Gulf livery and blank roundels.
Ordered with three of four available options.
Total of 4,033 GTs built during 2005–06. A
two-owner example with repainted front bumper
due to scuff. All records, Ford GT duffel
bag and car cover. Well maintained in as-new
condition. Cond: 1-.
TOP 10
#10
#123-2006 FORD GT Heritage Edition
coupe. S/N 1FAF-
SOLD AT $385,000. Not that many Heritage
Edition GTs built, but they sure seem to show
up at auction on a regular basis. Prices paid
seem to cluster around the number paid here,
so all seems in order.
TOP 10
#3
#161-2017 FORD GT coupe. S/N
2FAGP9CW1HH200087. Triple
Yellow/black Alcantara. Odo: 1,471
SOLD AT $60,000. If it had the motor it was
born with, the price would have been appreciably
higher, but it doesn’t, so it wasn’t. As-is,
it’s an exciting driver at a very reasonable
price. Options are a plus, but seller correctly
took the money and did not look back.
NOT SOLD AT $105,000. Bid was off the
mark here, as this appeared to be a well-restored
Shelby with the 428 CJ motor. Ford
only produced 350 GT500s, and this one is
finished in rather unusual livery. Properly
documented, so should have brought another
$20k or so. Should do better next time around.
miles. Turbocharged 3.5-L V6, semi-auto.
Powered by twin-turbocharged Ecoboost V6,
with a 7-sp dual-clutch transmission. Finished
in Triple Yellow with Lightning Blue stripes.
Rides on carbon-fiber wheels. Only 1,471
miles from new. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $836,000. Model introduced at
2015 Detroit Auto Show. Initial price was
$450,000. Top speed of approximately 216
mph. Class win at 24 Hours of Le Mans in
partnership with Chip Ganassi Racing. An
impressive car at an impressive price. Seller
doubled his money in three short years. Sold
to those who Ford determined would provide
maximum exposure. Restricted resales for first
two years, but several now offered in the million-dollar
range. Price paid here seems pretty
realistic. ♦
122 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 124
VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
The Virgil Marple Collection
Virgil Marple’s creative instincts found comfort in Studebakers — lots of them
Company
VanDerBrink Auctions
Date
May 30, 2020
Location
Independence, MN
Automotive lots sold/offered
114/114
Sales rate
100%
Sales total
$656,909
High sale
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door
hard top, sold at $28,050
Buyer’s premium
10%, included in sold prices
1955 Studebaker President Speedster 2-dr hard top, sold for $18,150
Report and photos by B. Mitchell Carlson
Market opinions in italics
V
irgil Marple, a Ph.D. graduate in mechanical engineering from the University
of Minnesota in 1970, was a man who appreciated the mechanical aspects of
anything. His doctorate dissertation and subsequent lifetime area of expertise
was research in the field of particle technology and aerosol science, specifically
in the design of inertial particle separation devices. From this, he attained more than
25 patents, from which he profited well enough to be able to start collecting cars. His
appreciation was focused mainly on their technical and styling aspects — especially
Studebakers and their too-little-too-late attempted savior, the Avanti — as well as
its post-Studebaker production into the 1990s. Indeed, after the New Avanti Motor
Corporation in Youngstown, OH, folded in the early 1990s, he managed to acquire
prototype components and had attempted to open an Avanti museum in Tennessee.
When that failed to come to fruition, he brought everything to his home farmstead in
south central Minnesota.
After Virgil passed away on Christmas Eve 2017, his family had started selling off
portions of his collection. After two years, they had sold the property but the 114 motor
vehicles remaining (in addition to a horde of NOS Studebaker parts) needed to be sold.
Therefore, Yvette VanDerBrink was brought on board to auction all that remained at
no reserve.
Originally planned in the winter to be a traditional auction held on May 30, with
Yvette’s usual use of Proxibid for online sales, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent
maelstrom of social-interaction changes forced the sale to be entirely online.
There was a public inspection of lots conducted on the weekend before closing, with
the social-distancing requirements in place.
This reporter was able to review the collection on two
separate occasions before the public inspection, so all of
my observations are based on personally inspecting and
photographing all lots that are in this report.
As the individual auction lots began closing on the
evening of May 30, most of them saw extended bidding,
as any bids within two minutes of closing automatically
extended the bidding for another two minutes. Such
was the case with the second-highest sale here, the 1935
Pierce-Arrow sedan. The closing of this lot extended for
nearly an hour, yielding an insanely high $24,750 sale
of a pile of dead sedan parts with a V12 engine in the
mix. More realistic was the overall top sale — a ubiquitous
modified 1957 Chevy Bel Air 2-door hard top
for $28,050. It was a bit ironic, being one of the most
popular collector cars from a collection that was built
around independent and orphaned brands.
Overall, the family should be well pleased with the
$657k that the sale of the vehicles garnered, proving
once again that after two plus months at that time of
“shelter in place” orders, bidders at home still had itchy
fingers to click and bid. ♦
124 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 126
VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
ENGLISH
#58V-1978 MG MIDGET convertible.
S/N GAN6UJ207578G. Red/black vinyl/tan
vinyl. Odo: 2,140 miles. 1.5-L I4, 1-bbl, 4-sp.
New license plates hung on it in 2014 and not
renewed. Very good, mostly original paint,
although under the hood the emissions decal is
masked around. Bumper cladding is lightly
faded, dingy and warped—pretty much like all
others. Bright cad plating on all door, hood
and trunk latch hardware. Good, original vinyl
top and interior upholstery. Moderate carpet
soiling. Light overall dust in engine bay from
sitting. Flash rust on replacement screw
clamps on radiator hoses, coolant weeping
residue on the upper radiator neck. Painted
and bare-metal castings clean under topical
dust. Original tires on stock-styled steel
wheels, with some age cracks on the sidewalls.
Cond: 3+.
People have paid more for cars to restore that are worse, and
were also rewarded with burning a permanent hole in their savings
account. Best bet here is parting it out so that others may live.
1959 BorgWard Isabella coupe
not. Spare, used windshield draped over the
roof. Dirt, old leaves, acorns and just plain
grime all over the complete engine underhood.
Cond: 5-.
SOLD AT $7,150. While neither Yvette nor
anyone from the collection was going to stick
their neck out at claim this is an actual-mile
car (indeed, Yvette went out of her way to state
that the miles are not confirmed), the more I
looked at this car, the more I felt it may well
be low miles. Problem is that it hasn’t been
stored all that well—even before Virgil got
hold of it. Bid high enough that most also felt
it was a low-mile original, but not too high to
swoon over that fact and be realistic about it
being parked. The Gremlin bidders should’ve
paid attention here.
GERMAN
#105V-1959 BORGWARD ISABELLA
coupe. S/N 367220. Off-white/red & white
vinyl. Odo: 96,772 miles. 1.5-L I4, 3-sp. Very
old color-change repaint from blue metallic.
Various dents and dings throughout the
body—and rust. Paint stains indicative of it
having been chained or strapped down for a
long time outside. Rusty fog-lamp housings
and parking-permit decal from UCLA that
expired in June of 1965 on dull front bumper.
Remaining brightwork is nothing to write
home about either—faded, pitted, dented,
scratched, bent or all of the above. To be polite,
the interior is a mess: dirty and moldy
original vinyl, most seat seams split, junk
piled up, and I can’t even tell if it has carpet or
SOLD AT $1,870. While stylish like the VW
Karmann Ghia, Isabellas were also as bogslow
as a Karmann Ghia—if not more so—
even if the BorgWard engine had a
hemispherical head. Virgil had two other Isabellas,
plus another used engine and various
parts, and maybe the plan was to make a good
one out of the three—or just to say he had
three Isabellas with only a pipe dream of ever
restoring any. People have paid more for cars
to restore that are worse, and were also rewarded
with burning a permanent hole in their
savings account. Best bet here is parting it out
so that others may live.
#54V-1991 VOLKSWAGEN CORRADO
G60 hatchback. S/N WVWDB4508MK003380.
Fly Yellow/two-tone gray cloth.
Odo: 108,907 miles. Supercharged 1.8-L I4,
auto. States “runs and drives” in the catalog,
but auction company images show it on the
end of a towrope behind a Bobcat. Somewhat
dusty engine bay, but not more so than a typical
used car. Aftermarket alloy wheels on
rather aggressive mud-and-snow tires. Accessory
mud guards in back of all wheelwells.
While the original paint looks pretty good at
five feet, up front the hood and fender leading
edges have gotten hammered pretty good by
stone chips—with intermittent doses of notreally-matching
touch-up paint. Roof-antenna
mast threaded off. Last set of license tabs date
to 2013, so pencil in a brake job. Light soiling
on the door panels, cloth seat inserts and center
console. Steering-wheel leather is moldy.
Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $6,325. I was sort of thinking about
bidding on this first-year example, as it hung
at just under a grand until a day or two before
closing. That is, until it went over $1,200 and
starting taking off on bid-closing day. I also
had second thoughts about dealing with a potentially
wounded blower, let alone pre-OBDII
VW electronics. Beyond the $4,300 bid just
before closing and then extending a couple of
times, I’m just shaking my head. Well, at least
the eventual successor (after a two-year delay)
to the Scirocco is not forgotten. Maybe they
did forget the Bobcat towing it in the photos.
JAPANESE
#101V-1987 SUBARU XT Turbo coupe. S/N
JF1AX45B8HC306316. Red/gray cloth. Odo:
79,883 miles. Turbocharged 1.8-L H4, auto.
2014 Virginia inspection sticker in windshield.
Faded, peeling and scratched original paint.
Sun-baked plastic body cladding. Right headlight
bucket missing, along with a plastic
wheel cover from each side. Mechanical components
under the hood are complete, but wiring
harness is crudely spliced all over the
place. Interior is self-destructing, with splitting
seams on seats, dashpad and door panels.
HVAC controls yanked out of center stack.
Steering-wheel faux-leather rim crumbling
apart. Also very dirty, full of parts, and has
stench that’ll put you off lunch and dinner—
maybe something worse than COVID-19 is
lurking in there? Overall, worse than a feral
Fiero up on blocks in a trailer court. Cond: 6+.
126 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 128
On the Radar
A whole new crop of world cars is now legal to import into
the United States. If you’re not familiar with the rules, you
can find info at www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/import.
by Jeff Zurschmeide
wars between the Japanese automakers. Toyota
had its Supra, Honda the Integra Type R, Nissan
had the Skyline GT-R, Subaru its WRX STi, and
Mazda offered the twin-turbo final generation of
the RX-7.
To challenge this daunting lineup, Mitsubishi
The Superlative
1995 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III
The middle 1990s were an era of performance
SOLD AT $715. Admit it, the last time you
saw one of these (if you even remember them),
it was probably in the parking lot at Tower
Records when you stopped in to buy the latest
Jonas Brothers CD. Virgil’s last non-conformist
vehicle fascination was for Subies (his last
daily driver was an ’06 Tribeca SUV) and he
had several XTs at one time. As his collection
manager stated, “This one turned out not to
be a good one” (like any of them were?), and
didn’t even pass muster for being much of a
parts donor. A basket case for Youngtimers—
and bid like a Youngtimer’s hip and trendy car.
Was at $375 for weeks before closing, then
nearly doubled in bids in minutes before closing.
AMERICAN
compact-economy-car platform, but engineers
added a strong turbocharged engine, capable
suspension, and all-wheel drive. Both Subaru and
Mitsubishi kept their engine displacement to 2.0 liters,
because the WRX and Evolution were intended
as homologation models for FIA rally competition.
As a result, the Lancer Evolution was planned for
sale only in the Japanese home market.
However, enthusiasts began exporting the Evo
tion of the Evo. As a homologation model, the Evo
was always a stripped-down hot rod, lacking typical
amenities like air conditioning, anti-lock brakes
and an audio system. Mitsubishi even chucked the
Lancer’s power windows in favor of lighter-weight
hand cranks. However, the Evo also received
substantial chassis bracing, upgraded suspension,
mechanical limited-slip differentials, working
aerodynamics, and a breathtaking turbocharged
engine rated at 270 horsepower and 228 ft-lb of
torque. Power was directed to the wheels through a
crisp 5-speed transmission. The Evo III could make
60 mph in 4.9 seconds — on its way to a top speed
of 149 mph.
Mitsubishi made 7,000 examples of the Evo III
(as it fast became known) from the beginning.
By 1995, Mitsubishi was up to the third genera-
brought out the first Lancer Evolution in 1992 and
quickly developed the car into a powerhouse.
The Evolution was based on the basic Lancer
#21V-1922 FORD MODEL T roadster. S/N
6284835. Eng. # 6284835. Black/none/black
vinyl. No title, sold on a bill of sale. Engine
serial number in car dates to July 20, 1922.
Wears several old repaints, all with some edge
chipping. Decent nickel plating on headlight
rims. Missing either a rear bustle back or
pickup box, as there’s a trimmed sheet of plywood
over the rear section of the frame. Wood
spokes in the wheels are in decent shape,
needing only a fresh coat of varnish. The
steering wheel, or rather what’s left of it, is
another matter. Most of the floor board is also
gone. No top or bows. Seat coverings done
several decades ago, and now rather heavily
soiled and slightly moldy. Engine painted silver
decades ago and now has light surface
rust. Fitted with an aftermarket water pump.
Not running, but engine is loose. Cond: 5+.
tressed. Wood-spoke wheels with an old gold
rattle-can job done on them. Cond: 5.
SOLD AT $6,325. Franklins tend to be the
1920s car of choice for mechanical engineers,
so Virgil having one was far from a surprise
for me. Since you’re pretty much going to have
to do everything, it sold well enough.
#23V-1930 WHIPPET MODEL 98A Six
sedan. S/N 122532. Black/tan cloth. Odo:
8,953 miles. First digit of the five-digit odometer
is obscured due to the speedometer housing
shifting in the dashboard. Most of the
paint has worn and faded off fenders. Original
body paint had faded heavily, but not worn as
much as the fenders. Good door fit—for a
wood-framed body. Period aftermarket blackpainted
tube bumpers—single up front and
dual in the back. Solid wood-spoke wheels.
Wood steering wheel is in pretty good shape,
while the interior upholstery is heavily torn on
most surfaces and shot. Engine is complete
and not unduly dirty, but deader than a post.
Cond: 5+.
in 1995 and 1996, before moving on to the Evo
IV. The fourth generation saw several important
developmental changes, such as reversing the
engine and transaxle to reduce torque-steer effects,
making the Evo III the last of its kind. American
markets would not see the Evo until the eighth
generation in 2003. If you want an Evo III, you’ll
have to ship it over.
Fortunately, there’s no shortage of Japanese
SOLD AT $2,530. There’s just enough here to
make a novice think that this is an easy restoration,
but missing enough to make it more
difficult than expected. The biggest thing missing
is a title. Plenty paid here.
#22V-1929 FRANKLIN MODEL 135
dealers ready to help out. Evo III prices over the
past several years have ranged from lows around
$9,000 up to $30,000 for well-kept models — plus
shipping and import costs. As with any performance
car, an independent pre-purchase inspection is a
good idea. ♦
128 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
sedan. S/N 35191309L11. Dark green/tan
mohair. Odo: 55,661 miles. Very old repaint,
with some flaking on windshield frame. All
fenders wrinkled to some extent, more so at
left front. Surface rust on painted faux-radiator
shell. Running-board rubber is missing and the
boards below it are somewhat distressed. Plating
worn off all outside door handles, and the
springs are weak, so they droop. Somewhat
greasy and dirty under the hood, but not unduly
so. Carburetor is missing. Two different
types of seat covers front and rear, and both
are shot. Interior panels are markedly dis-
SOLD AT $4,400. The lifespan of the WillysOverland
Whippet (from 1926 to early 1931)
was not due to it being a poorly received, bad
car. Indeed, it sold so well that two years after
it was introduced, it was the third-most-popular
car sold in the U.S. (proving 90-plus years
ago that a smaller, well-built car can sell well
here). Like a lot of cars, what killed it was the
Great Depression. To focus their resources,
the company decided to only make one brand
of car; Willys won and Whippet lost. However,
the Go-Devil engine in the 4-cylinder Whippet
went on to greater fame in the WWII Willys
MB jeep. Well enough sold on this one.
#24V-1930 CHANDLER SIX Model 65
sedan. S/N 4226. Green & black/green broadcloth.
Odo: 49,278 miles. Wears a period Moto
Meter and 1950 Minnesota license plates. Dull
original paint. Rusty and flaking chrome.
Good door fit. Very dingy glass, more translucent
than transparent. Grimy wood-spoke
wheels, very scabby tires—with the left front
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VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
Sure, I’m biased, being a truck guy, but this is hands-down my favorite
vehicle here. I’d make it run and stop safely (rebuilding the V8 if
needed), put new tires and one-piece wheels on it, but otherwise
leave it exactly the way it is—rusty running boards and all. I’m not even
jealous that it’s rougher around the edges and has more character
than me.
1947 Studebaker M15 1-ton tow pickup
shredded. Interior upholstery is not all that
bad, and worth trying to clean before giving
up on it. Complete engine bay, with a lot more
surface rust on the head than the engine block.
Not running, but not stuck, either. Cond: 5+.
SOLD AT $24,750. One of 875 Fierce-Sparrows
made in 1935, two-and-a-half years before
the V12 and the whole brand went out of
car production. I dare speculate that this one
will be sacrificed to make others live rather
than being restored back into a sedan that will
be a loss leader the first day you start working
on the body. Yet it’s odd how a vintage V12
makes some folks go nuts. Was bid to $11k by
the morning of auction close, and when it
started closing, it was extended multiple
times—going from $12,500 minutes before
close to the final bid, probably when someone
finally realized they got the Red Mist and
needed to step back. The big-drama sale of the
auction, but for not much more, you can get a
running example. Go figure.
SOLD AT $6,325. While Chandler was
bought out by Hupp in 1929 and production
ceased shortly thereafter, some late-production
cars were sold in 1930 and were titled as
such—likely the case here. Of all the off-brand
1920s sedans in the Marple Collection, this
one seems to have the most promise to restore,
which is partly why it did a couple of bids better
than most.
#25V-1935 PIERCE-ARROW MODEL
1245 sedan. S/N 3540028. Blue-green/green
cloth. Odo: 26,614 miles. Wears 1971 Wisconsin
“cheddar” license plates. Dual sidemount
spares and Archer hood ornament, which is
now heavily pitted and broken. Heavily faded
paint, likely original. A long time ago, someone
painted the turn-of-the-century Pierce
logo on hood sides, but it is now just as faded
as the rest of the paint. Roof cover has disintegrated
and has pretty much ruined the interior.
All glass is broken, yellowed or delaminated.
Heavily dry-rotted door and glass seals. Wire
wheels are fully covered in surface rust, aside
from dull and dinged-up hubcaps. Converted
to sealed-beam headlights. Generally complete
under the hood. Distributor cap has been off
for quite some time, but is still connected to
the spark-plug wires. Cond: 5.
#19VA-1942 STUDEBAKER M15
pickup. S/N M15A16007. Green &
primer/brown vinyl. 169-ci I6, 1-bbl, 3-sp.
Some restoration work stated on the truck, but
sits mostly in disassembly. Three fenders are
in red primer, the left rear in gray primer. Most
of the body has faded original paint, but cowl
has been sprayed red. Portions of running
boards have rusted. Instrument panel removed
and set where the bench seat was. That seat is
now in the cargo box, and in very rough shape.
No tailgate. Engine looks complete and promising,
but does not run. Cond: 5-.
SOLD AT $5,775. After Studebaker quit
building cars in 1966, Worden-Crandall
picked up the franchise for Toyota and carried
on at least into the 1970s. Today, the nearest
Toyota dealer to Red Wing (yes, where the
boots and the pottery are from) is in the Twin
Cities area, 40-odd miles away. Sure, I’m biased,
being a truck guy, but this is hands-down
my favorite vehicle here. I’d make it run and
stop safely (rebuilding the V8 if needed), put
new tires and one-piece wheels on it, but otherwise
leave it exactly the way it is—rusty
running boards and all. I’m not even jealous
that it’s rougher around the edges and has
more character than me. Bidding slowly advanced
online, with no undue drama when it
closed.
SOLD AT $2,420. First introduced for 1941,
the M-series pickups were some of the most
dapper-looking trucks at that time. Yet this will
take tons of work to do anything to get it running—let
alone authentically restored. Had
the engine been missing, the odd enthusiast in
me would have liked to build this into a street
rod, but using the powertrain out of a wrecked
BMW E28-generation M5—and putting the
M5 trunk-lid badge on the tailgate—just to
mess with people’s heads. Instead, someone
else paid to have this mess.
130 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
#52V-1951 HUDSON HORNET sedan.
S/N 7A43457. Black/brown & gray broadcloth.
Odo: 65,865 miles. 308-ci I6, 2-bbl,
auto. Stated that it runs and drives. Heavier
surface rust on engine and rather dusty, but all
the stock pieces are there. Dealer-installed fog
lamps and backup light. Original paint, with
heavier cracking on roof and lighter crazing
on portions of flanks. Heavier paint chipping
on hood’s leading edge and front fenders. Period
aftermarket windshield visor, exhaust
deflector and spotlight. Most chrome may buff
out, but a few pieces should be replated. Original
dealer tag still affixed to back of car.
NSRA inspection sticker in windshield. Pretty
decent original upholstery, with no tears or
seam splits, just needs a good cleaning. Rubberized
“carpeting” may be better off being
replaced. Cond: 3-.
#19V-1947 STUDEBAKER M15 1-ton
tow pickup. S/N M15A20121080. Light
gray/brown vinyl. Odo: 21,080 miles. 259-ci
V8, 2-bbl, 4-sp. Used for decades by WordenCrandall
Co., the Studebaker dealer in Red
Wing, MN. They also managed to transplant a
later V8 under the hood (probably with Vaseline
and feeler gauges). Shows 21,080 miles—
I suspect at least an additional 300k beyond
that, based on the oil-change stickers in the
door jamb. In 1961, it had 14,497 miles; in
1963, the oil change was logged at 13,497
miles. Very old, poorly masked repaint—likely
from late 1960s or early 1970s based on Toyota
graphics and seven-digit phone number on
fenders. Heavily rusted running boards and
more rust percolating at fender-to-body joints.
Runs, but stopping requires pre-planning and
the ability to downshift double-clutch. Fitted
with a Weaver hand-crank derrick winch, assisted
by a Braden PTO winch in the bed.
Cond: 4-.
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VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
#28V-1954 KAISER-DARRIN 161 road-
SOLD AT $11,000. “Step up to a Step-Down
Hudson” was the sales mantra of the day, and
those bidding on this really did step up to buy
it. Yet considering the solid original car beneath
the filth and years of sitting, plus a
growing interest in cars that were part of the
original years of NASCAR since the Hudson
Hornet was THE car to beat in 1951, and with
no small thanks to Doc Hudson, the sale of
this car crossing into five-digit territory isn’t
too surprising to me.
#51V-1953 KAISER MANHATTAN se-
dan. S/N K531016204. Light beige & light
blue/brown & tan cloth. Odo: 71,865 miles.
226-ci I6, 1-bbl, auto. Originally all light blue,
based on the body tag and original paint in
door jambs. With few blemishes in both original
paint and respray, it’s worth trying to buff
out. Same goes for chrome and stainless trim.
Numerous EAA member stickers in back window,
1972 Minnesota state parks permit decal
in windshield. Original, sloppy glue application
on door-seal rubber. Bank-vault-like door
fit all around. Seats reupholstered decades
back in modern nylon cloth, with heavier soiling
in spots. Anything would be better than the
stained and crumbling rubber flooring. Heavy
surface rust on the engine, but stated that it
runs and drives. I wouldn’t trust the rock-hard,
nearly white radiator hoses. Cond: 3.
ster. S/N 161001390. Faded blue/black
vinyl/white vinyl. Odo: 87,954 miles. 161-ci
I6, 3-sp. Based upon exposed surfaces in inner
areas, was likely originally light green. Odometer
reading taken from the loose speedometer
cluster in the boxes of parts included with the
car. Also loose from the car is both the stock
powertrain and a period 331-ci Cadillac V8.
What paint hasn’t been stripped is heavily
faded. Various cracks throughout the body,
along with most other fiberglass panels piled
in passenger’s compartment. Reproduction
body tags and all of the trim are loose—with a
good-sized pile that’s been refurbished or is
NOS. Bumpers still need to be dealt with,
though. Mismatched old tires, best served as
holding air to push it around. I wouldn’t push
them any faster. Cond: 6.
SOLD AT $9,075. To put it mildly, this will be
an ambitious project. The scary part is that
there were photos of this car in the 1970s
when it was in decent shape, before someone
started to “restore” it. Nothing can ruin a car
better than good intentions, and in the 1980s
too many otherwise decent, original cars were
taken apart to “restore them,” and quite a few
(like this one) are died-in-the-act projects. To
put it mildly, it was well sold.
#62V-1955 STUDEBAKER PRESI-
SOLD AT $5,775. This would’ve been built
early in the model year, before the January
1953 fire at the Hydra-Matic division assembly
plant that severely curtailed availability of
GM’s desirable automatic transmission. GM
didn’t even have enough Hydra-Matics on
hand to meet their own demand, so other car
companies that were using it got cut off (ranging
from Lincoln to Kaiser). This was left to
fester here for years. Still, there was sufficient
interest in bidding—and a strong enough
price—that a few others could also see the
potential here. Spending a good month detailing
and properly awakening this should yield
a jewel.
132 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
DENT Speedster 2-dr hard top. S/N
7164091. Black & white/black & white vinyl.
Odo: 46,603 miles. 259-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto.
Restored approximately two decades ago, to
between show- and driver-grade standards.
Since completion, it has been used little and
shows some light degradation from sitting in a
dirt-floor building. Engine has some moderate
dust from sitting, but would clean up quite
well. Good door and panel fit. Replacement
hood insulation dates to 1998. Better-thanaverage
repaint and replating of most chrome.
Grille/front turn-signal housing a bit foggy.
Optional full tinted glass, all in good shape.
Door panels and seats reupholstered. Heavier
scratching on the steering wheel. Runs well
enough, but a brake job is highly recommended.
Cond: 3+.
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VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
Channel your inner Cliff Clavin. This was essentially Studebaker’s
last stand for getting a good government contract for the automotive
division to stay afloat. While they did deliver on the U.S. Post
Office contract in 1963 and 1964 for these ZIP vans (so named to
help promote the then-new ZIP codes), they proved to be the final
Studebaker trucks.
1964 Studebaker Zip Van 8E 5-FC utility
SOLD AT $18,150. The President Speedster
was the top-shelf Stude for 1955, and as such,
this more mundane black-and-white color
combination better befits it than most of the
truly odd combos they had, which could’ve
only happened in 1950s America. Handily the
nicest car offered here, yet it’s been sitting and
degrading—but not so long that a good dedicated
detail, delousing and going over all operational
systems would do it wonders—and
pay dividends in a moneymaking flip. Not really
a diamond in the rough, but overdue for
its polishing. Not a steal of a deal, but a decent
buy if you’ll care for it.
#49V-1957 CHEVROLET BEL AIR
Custom 2-dr hard top. S/N VC57N197442.
Aqua/white paint/black & aqua vinyl. Odo:
1,746 miles. 327-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Non-stock
motor decodes as a 1960–64 170-hp 283, now
with aftermarket 4-barrel induction. Also has
gold-tone aftermarket valve covers and all
wiring wrapped in yellow electrical tape. Otherwise
looks like it just got plopped in from a
dirty, old grain truck (which it probably did,
just decades earlier). Average repaint, with
overspray on bottom of hood, door rubber,
side glass and undercarriage. Speaking of
down there, the cheapie dual-exhaust system
is about rusted out. Original brightwork lightly
pitted and scuffed. Fourteen-inch Cragar SS
wheels with old Radial T/As. Seats and door
panels redone several decades ago on the
cheap. Aftermarket floor shifter, steering
wheel, and tach. Diamond-tufted black vinyl
dashpad. Cond: 4+.
Odo: 98,295 miles. 289-ci supercharged V8,
auto. Equipped with power steering/brakes/
windows and full tinted glass. Stock wheel
covers on older radials. 1970s-era Pioneer
8-track tape deck tastefully added to the center
console. Wears an older repaint that’s fairly
presentable, despite some lesser-quality masking.
Paint chipping over left front wheelwell.
Decent chrome on original slightly wavy bumpers.
Turn-signal lenses have gray primer
overspray. Dusty engine bay, but the chrome
valve covers and air plenums should clean up
well. Big-4 Automotive Equipment Division
decal on cowl. Kink in intake hose from the
blower. Cond: 3-.
SOLD AT $28,050. My guess is that whoever
did the mods on this was a big fan of “American
Graffiti,” probably starting the project the
day after he watched the movie when it first
came out in 1973, with little done to the car
over the past couple of decades at least. Bidding
was at $17,500 within 24 hours of ending,
and was extended several times over until
ending here. A bit ironic that this was the top
sale here, as Mr. Marple tended to focus his
collection on independent marques.
#36V-1963 STUDEBAKER AVANTI R2
coupe. S/N 63R1428. Maroon/cream vinyl.
SOLD AT $21,175. Out of all of Virgil’s Avantis,
this was said to be his favored driver. Still,
it’s been at least three years since it was run
on the highway, so expect to deal with all of
the long-term parked-car issues (brakes, entire
fuel system, tires, et al.). Still, it saw bidding
extended several times before it closed, as it
was at $14,500 with seconds before the original
closing time. Yet considering some of the
more outlandish prices realized on other
worse-condition Avantis here, this wasn’t all
too silly of a final bid.
#20V-1964 STUDEBAKER ZIP VAN
Model 8E 5-FC utility. S/N E5FC2278. Blue,
white & red/light blue vinyl. RHD. Odo:
85,388 miles. 169-ci I6, 1-bbl, auto. Per the
estate’s representative, this was located in Kentucky
and had minimal rust. Partially restored
project in work. Bodywork is complete except
for detail painting, glass installation and minor
parts fitting. Partial wiring-harness installation.
Exterior paint quality is pretty decent, interior is
not as well done—either in application or
masking. Original gauge panel, with surface
rust beneath the glass and broken speedometer
needle. Very basic re-cover of the driver’s seat.
Engine runs, but the driveline was not restored,
so it is quite dingy. Cond: 4+.
134 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
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VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
SOLD AT $9,075. Channel your inner Cliff
Clavin. This was essentially Studebaker’s last
stand for getting a good government contract
for the automotive division to stay afloat.
While they did deliver on the U.S. Post Office
contract in 1963 and 1964 for these ZIP vans
(so named to help promote the then-new ZIP
codes), they proved to be the final Studebaker
trucks. Bidding hung around at about $3,500
until the day before the auction, getting up to
$8,250 bid by the morning of close, with no
further advances.
#45V-1967 PLYMOUTH FURY VIP
4-dr hard top. S/N PP43G74172291.
Red/black vinyl/black vinyl & nylon. Odo:
46,221 miles. 383-ci V8, 2-bbl, auto. Power
steering, a/c, but manual brakes. Correctly
repainted Bright Red Metallic, and done reasonably
well with the trim pulled off and minimal
signs of masking otherwise. While off,
some chrome was reconditioned. Stock, full
wheel covers (fancy that) and older radial
tires. Roof vinyl is lifting at the C-pillar, but
was expertly redyed. Driver’s seat bottom
starting to show some wear and occasional
thread busting, but balance of interior soft trim
is original and pretty good. Aftermarket steering-wheel
cover. DIN-mounted CD sound
system mounted below dash by driver’s door.
Cornball aftermarket dual exhaust. Engine
incorrectly repainted red and black, yet otherwise
is generally stock. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $7,700. If this got whacked in
1992, it would’ve been a 23-year-old car from
a boutique manufacturer, so it’s not surprising
that it was shoved into a corner and left for a
couple decades before Virgil bought it. Heck,
by the time it was hit, it was on that slippery
slope downward, with aftermarket wheels and
various light mods indicative of a quasi-luxury-performance
car past its prime and going
feral from less-than-thoughtful owners. Well
sold, and good luck putting Humpty Dumpty
back together again.
#46V-1972 AMC GREMLIN hatchback.
SOLD AT $6,325. The VIP trim on the fullsize
Fury body was something of a poor man’s
Imperial, yet with a sporty flair. It never sold
in the volumes of the Fury III or even the
Sport Fury, so few pop up today. At least this
has the first step-up engine option from the
base 318 of a two-pot-fed 383, yet the 4-barrel
383 and the debuting 440 could also be had. If
you fancy full-boat Mopars of the 1960s, you
could do a lot worse. Reasonable sale for all
parties involved.
#41V-1969 AVANTI II coupe. S/N
RQA0259. Gold/black vinyl. Odo: 62,630
miles. 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Heavy front
collision damage from about 1992 (New York
plates and inspection tags on the windshield
expired in 1993). While most of the right front
fender is still with the car, most of the front
fascia is either gone or broken up into small
pieces that are stuffed somewhere inside the
car. Even the cowl has some damage from
where the fender was ripped from it. Hood
looks to be an easy fix. Front bumper is okay,
but mounts are mangled and it needs replating
136 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
S/N A2A465E321334. Dark green metallic &
white/tan plaid vinyl & nylon. Odo: 48,900
miles. 232-ci I6, 2-bbl, auto. Rally wheels
(shod with low-profile T/A radials) likely aren’t
original to the car. The 48,900 on the odometer
could well be actual, but nobody was sticking
their neck out to claim it. Okay repaint and restripe
job, but masking is not so great around
the rear hatch release. Light hint of overspray
on the tags in the driver’s door jamb. Good
original brightwork, but nowhere near showworthy.
Good original interior, with minimal
seat and rubber floor-mat wear, but the seat
ends are moldy. Period aftermarket FM converter
mounted below the glovebox. Cleanedup
mostly original engine, to include the paint,
but not including belts and hoses. Stated to run
and drive with no issues. Cond: 3.
anyway. Both doors fit poorly. Original interior
is pretty decent but is very dusty and dirty.
Boxes of loose parts are on floorboards. Original
motor is generally complete—with smog
pump—but very dusty. Cond: 5-.
SOLD AT $20,900. Introduced on April
Fool’s Day 1970, the Gremlin had changed
little by the time this one rolled off the line at
Kenosha. At least for 1972 the 304-ci V8 was
now an option. Online bidding opened fairly
strong, but went from a somewhat outlandish
$10,250 on the last day of bidding to ending
with this “Are you out of your frickin’ mind?”
final bid after several sessions of extended
bidding. Nope, cars with moldy interiors don’t
rate better than a 3.
Page 138
VANDERBRINK INDEPENDENCE, MN
This being more of a parts-and-pieces high-school-parking-lot
denizen than a blue-chip investment piece, bidding was markedly
stronger than it deserved to be for the brunt of the action. Very
well sold.
1974 AMC Javelin AMX 2-door hard top
#44V-1974 AMC JAVELIN AMX 2-dr
hard top. S/N A4C798P250123. Black &
white/black cloth & vinyl. Odo: 80,718 miles.
401-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Real-deal black-onblack
AMX. Aftermarket wheels on radial
tires. Originally powered by a 360-ci V8, now
with an AMC 401 underhood. Built up with
various aftermarket components and a healthy
layer of dust. Decent repaint, but with lesser
masking in door jambs. Missing hood-edge
trim up front, windshield and glass trim has
multiple light dings. Colorado inspection tag
in the windshield. Original rubber seals are
showing marked degrading. Seat inserts redone
in cloth. Moderate carpet wear. Lessthan-skillful
fitting of replacement dashpad.
Fire extinguisher mounted between front seats.
Aftermarket steering-wheel rim cover and
Hurst shifter. Somewhat-crude dual exhaust
system. Cond: 3.
rear bumper and touched-up scrape behind
fuel filler, probably from parking by Braille.
Driver’s seat bottom has a few splits, plus kick
panels and steering column have discoloring—probably
from using the wrong type of
cleaner. Carpet has some fading on trans hump
and soiling footwells. Radio-delete plate. Engine
bay needs a good cleaning, but keep the
rattle cans away. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $7,150. Usually, a plow truck
means that it’s approaching the end of its life
cycle (it’s rusty and won’t go into overdrive, so
might as well make it into a plow truck), yet
this is was a pretty nice Bronco on its own. If
it was me who was the high bidder, I’d split
the plow from the Bronco and cash in on the
continuing interest in 1980s SUVs—then either
FB Marketplace the plow as it is or hang
it on a POS 4x4 pickup. Either way, it was a
decent enough buy—especially if one spiffs it
up a bit.
#47V-1995 CHEVROLET IMPALA SS
SOLD AT $21,450. While the Javelin was
retired at the end of this model year, the AMX
name was resurrected for a lame attempt to
revive it on a trim package for the 1979 Sprint
(basically, a restyled Gremlin with the trucklike-but-trusty
258-ci 6-banger or optional
and smog-strangled 304 V8). This being more
of a parts-and-pieces high-school-parking-lot
denizen than a blue-chip investment piece,
bidding was markedly stronger than it deserved
to be for the brunt of the action. Very
well sold.
#56V-1976 FORD PINTO MPG
hatchback. S/N 6X11Y212536.
Copper/tan vinyl. Odo: 26,466 miles.
140-ci I4, 2-bbl, auto. 26,466 actual miles in
all-original condition, aside from tires and no
battery. Runs and drives as well as you can
expect out of a Pinto. 1976 Iowa inspection
decal in windshield. Good, circa-1976, Fordapplied
paint and striping, with minimal edge
chipping. Door fit reminds me that this was
also before “Quality is Job 1.” Light ding in
BEST
BUY
SOLD AT $3,520. Of all the cars here, this is
the only one that was undeniably well bought.
Don’t blow up over that—hear me out. Virgil
bought this approximately four years ago out
of a car-shopper ad from the little-old-lady
original owner in Sioux City, IA. They didn’t
tell me what she was asking for it, but typically
for him, he paid her price immediately
and sent his collection manager to go down
and pick it up. By the time he got home, he
told me that Virgil was about ready to leave
his phone off the hook for a month, because he
had tons of other folks who wanted to buy it,
since the little old lady gave them his number.
Die-hard Ford collectors have a hard time
finding any low-mile, original Pinto, and
someone got a half-price deal.
#20VA-1989 FORD BRONCO Eddie
Bauer Edition SUV. S/N 1FMEU15H2KLA82664.
Maroon & tan/tan cloth. Odo:
6,754 miles. 5.8-L fuel-injected V8, auto.
Wears a Western snowplow up front. Aftermarket,
deep-dish alloy wheels on slightly
oversized tires, with standard steel spare on
the rear carrier. Reasonably good original
paint, with some light sun fade. No externally
visible rust, while it’s somewhat flaky on the
chassis. Dingy engine bay, but seems to have
been regularly maintained. Muted original
chrome and trim, with typical light scuffing.
Interior is about the nicest I’ve ever seen in a
snowplow truck. Seats only show light wear.
Neatly installed plow controller at bottom of
dashboard. Aftermarket steering-wheel cover.
Cond: 3.
sedan. S/N 1G1BL52P7SR187218. Black/
gray leather. Odo: 19,031 miles. 5.7-L fuelinjected
V8, auto. Last set of license tabs date
to 2017. Aside from a newer yet smaller-thanstock
battery, bone-stock but very dusty in the
engine bay. Two GM recall campaign completion
tags stuck to the radiator support. Original
paint, with a few areas of light scuffing and
the occasional road-debris chip. Auto Armor
dealer-applied paint protector decal on the
windshield (so much for that working as
billed). Windshield trim strips coming loose
on the ends. Stock alloy wheels on newer tires.
Seats showing minimal wear and soiling, yet
steering-wheel rim and carpet make up for it
in excessive wear and soiling. Seats and carpeting
covered with dryer sheets, to keep the
mouse population at bay. In this instance, it
seems to have worked. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $16,500. With the odometer showing
19,031, most of the bidding on the last day
was akin to ignoring the fact that this Impala
had been just plain sitting in a dirt-floor building
for several years generally untouched. Not
that this got The Full Lambrecht patina treatment,
but it was fast-tracked to be if it wasn’t
for the car selling (and ending up like most of
the Studebakers here). At least it smells like
fabric softener and not mouse pee. Well sold.♦
138 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 140
BRING A TRAILER ONLINE
Packing a Fantasy Garage
It would be easy to fill several garages — real or imagined — with Hatfield’s
favorite picks from BaT from a random week in June
looking for an outlet.
Long before the lockdown that has killed our collec-
tor-car auctions and gatherings, Randy Nonnenberg’s
website Bring a Trailer had become the online auction
site of choice for those trying to find that one-of-a-kind,
super-rare enthusiast ride. With the lack of the usual
venues for collectors the past few months, BaT has gone
supernova. Every morning, a new email arrives with a
fresh flock of gotta-have-it, can’t-live-without-it collector
cars that will have drool dripping in your coffee.
Bring a Trailer now has a premium class, offering
the cream of the collector-car crop. At
the time
1969 Ford F-250, sold for a hefty $72,975
report by Brett Hatfield; photos courtesy of Bring a Trailer
Market opinions in italics
T
here’s a buzz
that
comes from attending
collector-car auctions. It doesn’t matter if it’s
RM Sotheby’s, Bonhams, Barrett-Jackson,
Mecum, Leake or Gooding & Company, there
is a palpable excitement in the air. We haven’t been
able to enjoy that this spring. Still, those with gasoline
in their veins haven’t lost interest. In fact, it could be
argued that interest has created a pent-up demand
Company
Bring a Trailer
Date Range
June 22–26, 2020
Buyer’s premium
5%; $250 minimum, $5,000
maximum, included in sold prices
this is being written, the premium listings include a
1968 Lamborghini Miura P400, a 2005 Ferrari 575
Superamerica HGTC, a 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900C coupe
by Pinin Farina, and a 1987 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Zagato. These are in addition to all the other cool lots
on the site.
The lots covered here are all vehicles I have wanted
to grace my own garage. There are a few remarkable results
here, like the 589-mile 1985 Chevy K20 Scottsdale
that sold for over $89k, the 1969 Ford F-250 4x4 that
went for nearly $73k, or the 1972 Datsun 240Z that sold
for a staggering $110k with fees. So far, Bring a Trailer
keeps providing us all with a wide array of amazing
vehicles to drive our imaginations wild and empty our
bank accounts. It may not have the crackling, electric
sensation of bidding in person, but it’s no doubt helped
stoke the car addict’s passion during a bleak era. Bless
them for that.
ENGLISH
#33244-1985 LOTUS ESPRIT Turbo
coupe. S/N SCCFC20A1FHK60695. Red/tan
leather. Odo: 91,115 miles. Turbocharged
2.2-L I4, 5-sp. Parts of this Esprit have clearly
been repainted, as the black on the bumpers
and window surrounds is now red. The paint
shows some fading. BBS honeycomb wheels
shod in Kelly Charger rubber. Tan leather interior
has seen better days, with wear on the
bolsters and a split in driver’s side seat bottom.
Leather shifter boot is worn and faded.
Engine bay could use some attention. The
clutch slave cylinder is leaking, and a
replacement slave cylinder is included. There
are some exhaust leaks at the manifold due to
missing bolts. New exhaust gaskets also included.
Cond: 3-. SOLD AT $16,275. We’ve
all heard the acronym before—LOTUS: Lots
Of Trouble, Usually Expensive. This one is
practically guaranteed to prove that joke true.
These weren’t cheap to maintain when they
were new and in good condition. The condition
on this one made it downright scary. SCM
median value is $23k. This one will eat the $7k
difference between sale price and median
value in short order and still be looking for
more. Hopefully the buyer is a Lotus specialist.
#33238-2006 ASTON MARTIN VAN-
TAGE V8 coupe. S/N SCFBB03B36GC01721.
Tungsten Silver/gray leather &
Alcantara. Odo: 16,908 miles. Fuel-injected
4.3-L V8, 6-sp. Tungsten Silver finish is shiny,
free from any dings or nicks. XPEL paintprotection
film covers the front bumper, hood,
fenders, headlamp lenses and mirror housings.
140 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
SOLD AT $46,200. This was the much-moredesirable
V8 Vantage, equipped with the
6-speed manual gearbox (the auto may be the
world’s worst transmission). Condition was
All four factory alloys appear in good nick,
without any curb rash. Gray leather and Alcantara
interior is also in very good condition,
with only slight wear noted on stitching. Engine
bay is clean, as is the undercarriage. Car
comes with service records since 2017, an
Aston Martin trickle charger and clean CARFAX.
Cond: 2+.
Page 142
BRING A TRAILER ONLINE
These hot hatches were practical yet fun, and as such were the choice
of a younger market who drove them hard and often. Even with some
needs, this one was one of the best I’ve seen in quite some time.
1983 Volkswagen Rabbit GTI hatchback
much better than average, with fewer miles
than average, yet this one traded right at average
retail. Someone took home a bargain.
GERMAN
#33113-1970 PORSCHE 911T RS Tribute
coupe. S/N 9110122079. Blue Metallic/black
vinyl & gray cloth inserts. Odo: 17,006 miles.
Fuel-injected 3.2-L H6, 5-sp. Metallic blue
shows good shine, presents well. Carrera RSstyle
front bumper and RS-style rear fender
flares contribute to a handsome appearance.
Panel gaps appear consistent throughout.
Glass and stainless in good nick. Modified
3.2-liter flat 6 from a 9k-mile 1988 Carrera is
housed in a tidy engine compartment. Interior
shows little sign of wear, featuring bolstered
bucket seats, RS-style door cards and MOMO
steering wheel. Accompanied by service records
and a painted ducktail engine cover.
Cond: 2.
side door and just below vent window on passenger’s
side. Factory alloys have been beautifully
refinished. Glass and weatherstrip are in
good nick. Red cloth interior shows minor
wear on driver’s seat. Steering column seals
and a shifter rebuild kit are included in the
sale. Stereo currently disconnected. Comes
with window sticker, original invoice, build
sheet, service records and factory manuals.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $15,015. Save for the scuffs on the
front bumper cover, this was an exceptional,
low-mile example of a big-body Benz. Although
a bit underpowered in this smallestdisplacement
V8 for the flagship sedan, these
were competent, comfortable highway cars
with luxurious appointments and cargo space.
The winning bid here was a couple thousand
north of book value, but likely worth the investment,
as these are beginning to climb.
#33223-2000 BMW Z8 convertible. S/N
WBSEJ1347YAH60015. Schwarz II/black
cloth, black hard top/red & black leather. Odo:
36,333 km. Fuel-injected 4.9-L V8, 6-sp.
Glossy finish presents beautifully, possibly
having been ceramic coated. No road rash to
note. Red-and-black leather interior makes for
a striking and handsome pairing. Driver’s side
outside seat bolsters show some wear and
creasing. Balance of the interior is clean. Engine
bay is tidy and correct. Undercarriage
appears to have been cleaned as well. Wheels
are free from rash. Comes with both tops.
Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $30,975. GTIs were economy cars
turned sporty, using the VW Rabbit as the
base. These hot hatches were practical yet fun,
and as such were the choice of a younger market
who drove them hard and often. Even with
some needs, this one was one of the best I’ve
seen in quite some time. That may explain why
the winning bid was fully 50% above book
value for one in #1 condition, or it may just
have been two GTI fans who were both determined
to take it home. Either way, well sold.
#33256-1984 MERCEDES-BENZ 380SE
SOLD AT $81,900. Although far from original,
this 911T stayed true to the Porsche ethos.
With values of a genuine RS Lightweight well
in excess of $1.3m, one could be forgiven for
trying to capture a bit of that mystique in a
much-less-expensive platform. The SCM
Pocket Price Guide median value for a ’70
911T is $72.5k. Given the extra performance
from a 1988-vintage 3.2, coupled with tastefully
done fender flares, it seemed easy to justify
a bit of a premium. Well sold for a nicely
finished clone, although many enthusiasts
would prefer an engine closer to the original
specs rather than the bigger and heavier 3.2.
#33118-1983 VOLKSWAGEN RABBIT
GTI hatchback. S/N 1VWDC0178DV023763.
Royal Red/red cloth. Odo: 33,263
miles. Fuel-injected 1.8-L I4, 5-sp. Equipped
with a/c (which needs a charge), factory AM/
FM-cassette, heated rear window and golf-ball
shift knob. Paint presents well, but the passenger’s
rear quarter has been replaced. Small
door dings present at leading edge of driver’s
142 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
sedan. S/N WDBCA32A7EA038410. Lapis
Blue/Palomino leather. Odo: 40,185 miles.
Fuel-injected 3.8-L V8, 4-sp. Metallic paint just
gleams. Scuffs are present at the corners of the
gray-clad front bumper. Glass and weatherstrip
are in decent condition. Wears 14-inch chrome
Bundt-style wheels. Interior has been well
maintained, with minimal wear on the leather
seat bolsters. Carpets have been freshly
cleaned. Engine bay is clean, with no leaks
noted. Undercarriage is in surprisingly good
nick. Accompanied by service records, factory
manuals, and clean CARFAX. Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $165,000. This example was the
15th U.S.-spec production example built. It
was used as a press vehicle before being purchased
by a BMW executive who eventually
moved it to Canada. There, it traded hands
again. The top bid here was $21k below priceguide
median value. Possibly being located in
Canada kept the bidding down. Re-importing
the car shouldn’t be too difficult, as it was
originally a U.S.-market car.
ITALIAN
#33232-1984 FERRARI MONDIAL Quattrovalvole
convertible. S/N ZFFUC15A7E0051875.
Nero/black cloth/black
leather. Odo: 35,968 miles. Fuel-injected 3.0-L
V8, 5-sp. One of 282 imported to the U.S.
from 1983 to 85. Only driven 30 miles in the
past two years. Glossy factory finish presents
well, with minimal pepper noted. Black cloth
convertible top appears in very good condition.
Black leather interior shows minimal
wear. Carpets are not faded. Equipped with
gated shifter, a/c, power windows and aftermarket
Kenwood stereo system. Engine bay is
clean. Comes with owner’s manual, car cover,
toolkit and clean CARFAX. Cond: 2. NOT
SOLD AT $31,250. Last seen on Bring a
Trailer in November 2017, when it sold for
$29,777, wearing a set of 18-inch 360 Modena
wheels. Long among the least loved from the
Scuderia, the Mondial is arguably the cheapest
way to get your top-down Ferrari fix. The
Page 144
BRING A TRAILER ONLINE
Holy Mother of Pearl! Yes, 240Zs have become very collectible over
the past few years. Yes, prices are on the rise, and yes, this was
a good example. But oh, my giddy aunt, was this a surprise! The
winning bid here was over THREE TIMES price-guide median value!
1972 Datsun 240Z coupe
and yes, this was a good example. But oh, my
giddy aunt, was this a surprise! The winning
bid here was over THREE TIMES price-guide
median value! For what was thrown at this Z,
you could have had a tidy Lamborghini Gallardo
Spyder, a 996 GT3 or a Ferrari 550 Maranello
with a few miles. Let that sink in.
Along with the staggering bidding, there were
459 comments on the sale. Exceedingly well
sold. Congrats to the seller.
#33066-2001 ACURA NSX-T convert-
back seats would only be comfy for the tiniest
of toddlers, but do offer the added bonus of
more luggage space for weekend jaunts. PreMondial
T models can have the belt service
done without having to pull the engine, a true
bonus over most other mid-engined cars from
Maranello. This copy was bid up to just under
median book value of $33,500. Apparently not
enough of a premium to justify swapping the
wheels.
JAPANESE
#33053-1972 DATSUN 240Z coupe. S/N
HLS3068727. Red/black vinyl. Odo: 69,681
miles. 2.4-L I6, 4-sp. One of 37 cars restored
by Nissan North America and sold by select
dealerships through the Nissan Vintage Restoration
Program in the 1990s. The red paint
presents well save for a couple of small nicks
on the edge of the driver’s door. Aftermarket
16-inch Panasports complement well. Chrome
parts show minor pitting. Interior is quite
clean save for the tape patch over a gouge on
driver’s side outside seat bolster. Engine bay is
tidy and correct. Comes with an owner’s manual,
toolkit and Nissan Vintage Restoration
Program literature. Cond: 2-.
ible. S/N JH4NA21661T000021. Berlina
Black/Onyx leather. Odo: 12,759 miles. Fuelinjected
3.2-L V6, 6-sp. A recent paint correction
detail helps the Berlina Black finish
gleam. Some small chips and a small spot of
clearcoat peeling are visible on rear passenger’s
side fender flare, and two scratches on
driver’s side rear flare. Factory alloy wheels
present well, with no rash present. The Onyx
Black leather is quite clean, with only minor
creases and wrinkles. The balance of the interior
is in very good condition. Factory stereo
is fitted. Engine bay is clean and correct.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $52,500. As a non-matching-numbers
car, there should have been no guilt in
driving and enjoying this solid-axle. A few
things had been changed, like a power brake
booster and high-energy distributor (that
could no longer be covered by the polished
stainless trim), presumably to improve drivability.
Median book value for a base-engine
’57 would be $69k with the hard top, so the
winning bid here is a bit of a bargain for a
decent driver. Well bought.
#33102-1964 PONTIAC GTO convert-
SOLD AT $102,900. The first-generation
Acura NSXs began to find their stride a few
years back, and continued their upward trend
as other cars have seen a bit of market correction.
These were considered exotics that could
be used as daily drivers, and as such, many
accumulated many miles. This example,
though not perfect, was quite good, with few
ticks on the clock. The sale price here was
spot-on.
AMERICAN
SOLD AT $110,240. Holy Mother of Pearl!
Yes, 240Zs have become very collectible over
the past few years. Yes, prices are on the rise,
144 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
#33241-1957 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
convertible. S/N E57S101328. Polo White &
Inca Silver/black cloth, white hard top/red
vinyl. Odo: 69,539 miles. 350-ci 355-hp V8,
4-bbl, auto. Polo White paint with Inca Silver
coves is a handsome combo, but shows some
small nicks on nose and swirl throughout. A
NOT SOLD AT $43,250. Believed by many to
be the first muscle car, the GTO (a hotter version
of the Tempest) stole its name from the
Ferrari of the same moniker. This copy was
slightly modified from original condition, but
nothing that strayed too far. A different shade
of interior and a hotter carb setup shouldn’t
ible. S/N 824P157017. Nocturne Blue/white
vinyl/white vinyl. Odo: 2,540 miles. 389-ci
V8, 3x2-bbl, 4-sp. Handsome paint presents
well, with good prep and execution. Equipped
with dual hood scoops, power steering, power
brakes, heavy-duty springs and shocks, and a
tach. Original dark blue interior has been
changed to white. Interior is clean, with little
indication of use. Engine bay is clean. Original
4-barrel carb was swapped for a Tri-Power
setup early in the car’s life. Undercarriage
shows well. Sold with the build sheet, order
sheet and PHS literature. Cond: 2.
cloth soft top has replaced the previous vinyl.
Chrome looks decent; stainless could be a little
better polished. Some creasing noted on
driver’s side seat bottom. An aftermarket cassette
radio has been fitted. Carpets are clean
and fade-free. A thicker steering wheel with a
smaller diameter has replaced the original.
Engine bay houses a Chevy ZZ4 crate 350
with a higher-energy distributor and C4 valve
covers. Undercarriage is clean and appears to
have been detailed. Cond: 3+.
Page 146
BRING A TRAILER ONLINE
For years, first-gen Firebirds got all the attention, and the second
generation was relegated to also-ran status. However, since the
post-recession run-up, the early second-gen Firebirds and T/As have
found their stride.
1970 Pontiac Trans Am Ram Air III coupe
have pushed this down that much. True, the
white may be somewhat polarizing, but it fails
to explain this lack of interest. Top money offered
was well below price-guide median
value of $55k. The seller had little choice but
to hold out for a better offer.
#32984-1969 FORD F-250 pickup. S/N
F26YRE71622. Lunar Green/black vinyl/gray
cloth inserts. Odo: 78,750 miles. 360-ci V8,
2-bbl, 4-sp. Single-stage Dupont paint is quite
glossy, with minimal orange peel, and likely
far better than when new. Panel gaps appear
consistent, again probably better than new.
Newer towing mirrors are fitted. Bed sides and
tailgate are topped with polished stainless
trim. Bed has been sprayed with a matte-black
bedliner. Engine bay is clean and correct.
Chrome bumpers are quite brilliant, as is all
the stainless trim. Steel wheels painted white
and wear factory dog dishes. Four-speed trans
has a granny-low first. Interior presents asnew,
with re-covered bench and rubber floor
mat. Undercarriage is detailed and spotless.
Cond: 1-.
Paint presents well, with good gloss. Driver’s
side turn-signal housing hangs down slightly.
Panel gaps are only slightly better than when
new. Factory steel wheels are shod in Goodyear
bias-ply rubber. Engine bay is clean and
original. Interior shows well, with little wear
of note. Glass and weatherstrip are holding up.
Comes with a reproduction window sticker
from Pontiac Historic Services, build sheet,
factory manuals and other PHS literature.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $88,725. There likely was not another
copy of this truck with miles this low
anywhere. This sale set a record for squarebody
trucks by a wide margin, driven by two
very determined bidders. The seller must be
thrilled beyond words. As an aside, there were
nearly 300 comments on the auction, some of
which were hilariously brilliant. Extremely
well sold!
#32975-2005 FORD GT coupe. S/N
SOLD AT $72,975. Big money for this truck
speaks to the level of restoration quality,
which appeared to be rotisserie and fresh. The
condition was better than new, with a few minor
modifications for usability. Finding these
in this condition never happens, as they were
work trucks and used as such. This copy was
far too nice to ever consider using for its original
intended purpose. The winning bid here
was likely far less than what had been invested,
but it’s unlikely there is another copy
quite this nice. Well sold.
#33175-1970 PONTIAC TRANS AM
Ram Air III coupe. S/N 228870N128489.
Lucerne Blue/white stripe/black vinyl. Odo:
66,418 miles. 400-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. One of
1,046 1970 T/As finished in Lucerne Blue.
SOLD AT $68,775. Last seen at the April
2017 Worldwide Auctioneers Arlington, TX,
sale, where it failed to meet reserve at $55k
(SCM# 6836473). For years, first-gen Firebirds
got all the attention, and the second generation
was relegated to also-ran status.
However, since the post-recession run-up, the
early second-gen Firebirds and T/As have
found their stride. This one was a stripper
with few options, the rarer of the two colors
offered in ’70, with an older but very serviceable
restoration. Price-guide median value is
$59k, and, with the quality of work done, this
was well worth the price of admission.
#32978-1985 CHEVROLET K20 Scottsdale
4x4 pickup. S/N 2GCGK24M4F1109687.
Indian Bronze Metallic/Mahogany
vinyl. Odo: 589 miles. 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp.
Has only covered 589 miles from new. Paint,
interior, bed and engine bay all appear as-new.
Sparsely optioned, it is equipped with power
windows and locks, a sliding rear window,
vinyl floors and bench, Deluxe Appearance
Package (chrome bumpers and grille), but has
no radio or a/c. Dealer-installed bed rails fitted.
The truck has had single-family ownership
from new until 2018, when it was
purchased by the seller. Accompanied by manufacturer’s
literature, a build sheet and a clean
CARFAX. Cond: 1-.
1FAFP90S45Y400752. Mark IV Red
Clearcoat/white stripes/Ebony leather. Odo:
509 miles. 5.4-L supercharged V8, 6-sp. Reportedly
kept by the dealership until it was
sold as “new” in 2014, this GT has covered
just 509 miles from new. It has all four factory
options (racing stripes, forged aluminum
wheels, red brake calipers, McIntosh stereo).
Mark IV Red Clearcoat is as-new, with no
signs of nicks or chips. Engine bay also presents
as-new. Interior still wears hang tags.
Black leather seats have no evident bolster
wear, and carpets are clean. Glass and weatherstrip
are flawless. Only the undercarriage
shows any indication of use, as evidenced by
some water spots. Accompanied by the Certificate
of Origin, original dealership allocation
paperwork, original dealer invoice and a clean
CARFAX report. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $324,000. Last seen at the 2020
Mecum Kissimmee auction, where it failed to
sell at $270k (SCM# 6927007). As was the
case with so many of these, this one had
clearly been tucked away, with little indication
of use to be found anywhere on the car. The
owner had preserved its like-new condition
but missed the opportunity to enjoy one of the
greatest Fords ever built. The winning bid was
just above book value, but certainly justified
with condition and low miles. ♦
146 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 150
ROUNDTABLE
Are Blue-Chip Collectibles a Good Investment?
Our world turned upside down in March, but people are still buying and selling collector cars. This is a remarkable vote of confidence —
and love. But are cars good investments for the long term? We’ve asked Mitch Katz, Jose Romero, Muffy Bennett and Prescott Kelly for their
opinions
MITCH KATZ
CEO, Premier Financial Services
JOSE ROMERO
Sales Manager, DriverSource
Before the coronavirus hit, many smart people saw blue-chip collector cars as a good
long-term investment. Do you still agree with that? Also, what is your definition of a
blue-chip collectible? Has that definition changed during the past couple of years?
The traditional definition of a “blue chip” collector car is one that
maintains its popularity and economic value over a sustained period.
The coronavirus has not affected the values or demand for cars that
are currently considered blue-chip collectibles, based on our leasing
experience so far this year.
The most significant trend affecting what’s considered a blue-chip
collectible, and on the consistency of the market values for those
cars, involves a generational shift that’s currently taking place. The
tastes and preferences of a younger generation of car enthusiasts —
who are in their 30s and 40s and who now have sufficient disposable
income — are very different from those of older collectors. These
newcomers might, for example, consider a 1985 Camaro IROC-Z to
be a very desirable “blue-chip” collector car, and have little interest
in owning a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS or some other car that’s
been popular over the past decade.
Similar to all other categories of assets, the rules of supply and
demand apply to collector-car values. There are no “safe bets” when
it comes to predicting whether a car will be more or less desirable
over time. For that reason, we believe that the best reason to buy any
car — regardless of whether or not it’s considered “blue chip” — is
because you love it and will enjoy owning it. The reasons for loving
a particular car vary broadly, and they can also be very personal.
Perhaps you rode in your favorite uncle’s vintage Mercedes when you
were in junior high school. You can remember the feel and smell of
its leather seats, the clean styling of its dashboard, and how you felt
the day your uncle let you take the wheel.
No one enjoys losing money on any item that’s considered a “col-
lectible,” whether it’s artwork, gold coins or stamps. But if you’ve
enjoyed a collector car while you’ve owned it, and the car has created
lifetime memories for you and your family, that will more than make
up for any economic loss you might incur.
Conversely, you might break even or make money on your collec-
tor car. But there are much better and safer ways to build a long-term
investment portfolio.
Blue-chip collector cars are a good long-term investment — more
so today than ever before. With volatility in the markets, changing
habits and high liquidity, we are seeing significantly more requests
and higher sales volumes for quality collector cars.
For years, the words “blue-chip” collectible meant Ferrari 250
California Spyder, coachbuilt Duesenbergs, historic Jaguar C-types/
D-types and the staples: Mercedes-Benz 300SL, Lamborghini
Miura, and Ferrari’s trio of supercars.
Today, I consider a blue-chip collectible car the best of its kind
in any category. A quality original-paint or highly restored 1967–73
Porsche 911S or the best Jaguar E-type available on the market are
great examples.
Additionally, cars that are a joy to drive and require relatively
low maintenance, like Ferrari 246 GT/GTS Dinos, have seen a huge
uptick in demand. Event eligibility also continues to be a catalyst for
many buyers as we see the younger generation of collectors wanting
to participate in tours, rallies and club gatherings.
Investment-driven buyers acquire cars as an asset class, but many
buy them to enjoy, and that is what I always recommend. I tell our
clients all the time, buy what you like and pay a little more for the
better example; you will always come out ahead down the line.
Great collector cars have been a safe-haven investment for
decades, and I believe that will only continue to grow. The most
recent peak in values was in 2014, followed by a seemingly 25% to
30% decline across the board from 2016 to 2019, yet many end-user
collectors seem reluctant to part with their cars.
I believe that reluctance will pay dividends in the future. Near
term, if the dollar weakens against the euro and British pound, we
may once again see a surge in exports, which will drive prices up
again.
150 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 151
MUFFY BENNETT
Director — Collector Cars, Ritchie Bros.
PRESCOTT KELLY
SCM Contributor
Before the coronavirus hit, many smart people saw blue-chip collector cars as a good
long-term investment. Do you still agree with that? Also, what is your definition of a
blue-chip collectible? Has that definition changed during the past couple of years?
If purchased thoughtfully and restored carefully, some collector
cars will, in fact, appreciate. However, as we have seen throughout
the years, plenty depreciate.
One cannot always predict the market value of a collector car
until it is sold, and, let’s face it — plenty can go awry before then.
The market for collector cars — similarly to markets for stocks or
futures — can be subject to unpredictable forces, such as the larger
economy and the changing tastes and emotions of buyers who may
not have the same fondness for earlier generations of vehicles.
“Blue chip,” by definition, refers to an investment in a well-
established, financially sound and historically secure investment,
wherein returns are assured.
However investing in a passion-based industry isn’t — and never
can be — financially sound, in my opinion. The collector-car market
has proven to be fickle.
I have never believed that cars were a wise investment. For me,
they have always been an emotional decision, as it probably is for
most buyers (regrettably, I’m a bit too spontaneous for my own good
when it comes to cars). I have always been of the opinion that a buyer
should look at a purchase of a collector car as a hobby. If money is
made when sold, an owner should be pleasantly surprised — however,
it should not necessarily be counted upon.
Many portfolio managers have touted collector cars as an invest-
ment. I personally never recommend a car as such; although, let’s
face it, it is better than Enron stock — at least you have a car in the
garage.
Buy it because you love it; buy it because you’ve always wanted
it – and, most notably, buy it because you are passionate about it! If
you lose money when you sell the car, then the delta is the cost of the
fun and experiences had during ownership — whether it be driving
it, tinkering with it or showing it.
The COVID-19 pandemic modified my attitude about the best
investment Porsche models. The cars that held or even increased
value during the close-down were not all ones I have favored.
For blue-chip investments, I have usually recommended several
911 Carrera RS variants: 1973 RS 2.7-liter (first or second series),
1974 RS 3.0-liter, 1984 SC/RS, 1993 RS 3.8, and 2011 GT3 RS 4.0,
plus the turbocharged 1996–98 993 GT2 and the 2011 997 GT2 RS,
and the last analog Porsche supercar, the 2004–05 Carrera GT.
When my phone lit up in May and June, it was from people who
wanted Porsches so scarce that a lot of us know most of the owners.
Were buyers anticipating congressional- and Federal Reserveprompted
inflation, and wanting prime-quality hard assets sooner
rather than later?
Prices for these cars were not soft. They were up. And as soon
as an owner got more than one inquiry, his price solidified. Buyers
wanted 1996–97 GT1 Strasses, worth $8,000,000 to $13,000,000
(22–25 built), with large premiums on the lowest-mileage and mostoriginal
examples.
Interest was also high in my favored 1984 SC/RSs (21 built) and
1974 3.0-liter RSs (52) and their streetable IROC RSR little brothers
(15), typically $1,500,000 to $2,500,000. In the mix were 1988 959Ss
(29) at circa $2,500,000, rare “Macau versions” of the 1992 964 RS
3.6-liter (20) at $400,000–$600,000, and the 1993 homologation 964
RS 3.8-liter (55) at $1,250,000–$1,500,000. A different group of buyers
wanted an outlier, the high-production 1973 RS, with 1,525 built
(excludes RSRs).
Buyers were of two minds. For the scarce models, it was, “With
COVID-19, maybe someone will finally sell a good example.” “I am
a buyer in this pandemic, so I deserve to get a bargain” was more
applicable to the 1973 RSs.
Of interest, I fielded just one inquiry about my second-ranked
blue chip behind the GT1s — the 1968 911R, built in 20 examples,
plus four 911S-based prototypes. The current younger market demographic
is not yet buying many cars older than 1973 RSs. Further,
low-production models without real significance such as the Carrera
3.2-liter Club Sport and the RS America never came up.
I like to be a contrarian, so perhaps I am a tad disappointed to see
the pandemic market endorse the old adage of “buy the best of the
rarest.” That must be touchstone advice because it’s true. ♦
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 151
Page 152
DRIVING WITH ELANA
2020 MCLAREN GT
A Comfortable Supercar — Comparatively
A grand tourer that hits 0–60 mph in 3.1 seconds — but with a little elbow room
By Elana Scherr
P
ull up to the nightclub wrapped in midnight. In twilight. In the fiery orange of the
setting sun. McLaren offers wonderful paint colors, and the McLaren GT’s elongated
body is an excellent canvas.
The GT is McLaren’s “grand tourer,” but it’s too pretty to waste on an open road
where nobody can see you. This is a car for arriving places. Preferably there’s a winding
road on the way. It’s an easy car to drive, with precise steering, firm brakes and acceleration
that will curl your toes — and straighten the curl in your hair. Zero–60 mph in 3.1 seconds?
A supercar that you can back up with confidence and get in and out of with elegance? Grand
indeed.
To save us all time, imagine that the term “comparatively” follows every statement of
utility to come, and that the vehicles being compared to are other high-end exotics — and
low-orbital spacecraft — rather than, say, the new Ford F-150. Compared to the F-150, the
McLaren GT is neither comfortable nor impressive in its payload, but compared to an SR-71
Blackbird, or even a McLaren 720S, the GT is a featherbed with room to spare.
The GT’s soft ride and soft profiles are far from the sharp, Venetian-blind slats of the
Senna, although wide air intakes at the quarter-panels will remind you that there’s still a
fighter plane under those French curves. Inside — and I will point out that this is the first car
with dihedral doors that I have managed to get in and out of without bonking my head — it’s
cashmere, carbon fiber and contrast-stitched leather. The cockpit is tight for tall folks, supporting
my long-standing idea that sports cars are best suited for short ladies — i.e.: me. If
you are me-sized, you’ll find the McLaren offers plenty of headroom, daily-driver-level visibility,
and works as well as a grocery-getter as it does as a tarmac version of the Concord.
Most supercars are spectacular until the moment you have to unfold from the interior
and scrape your tiny overnight bag out of whatever cubby passes for a trunk. The McLaren
GT is fast by any metric, as well as comfortable and roomy. Comparatively. ♦
ELANA’S GRADEBOOK
Fun to drive:
Eye appeal:
Overall experience:
Price as tested: $253,430
Equipment: Mid-engine 612-hp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8,
7-speed dual-clutch automatic, Comfort, Sport and Track
modes, 15-spoke forged wheels, Pirelli PZero tires, 225/35/
R20 front, 295/30/R21 rear, polished four-piston brake
calipers, Electrochromic glass roof, vehicle lift, Ink Blue leather
seats, Namaka Blue exterior paint, body-color key, Sports
exhaust, seven-inch touchscreen, Bowers & Wilkins audio
system, power adjustable seats, 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space
Mileage: 15/22
Likes: Easy ingress and egress, smooth ride, spectacular
visibility
Dislikes: Hidden seat controls, cramped footbox, fussy key fob
Verdict: Never has going so fast been so drama-free
152 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 154
DOUBLE TAKE
Boom or Bust?
SCMers go toe-to-toe while rating recent BaT sales
by Mark Wigginton and Jeff Zurschmeide
Lot 32470. 1978 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT 4x4. S/N: U15HLCG9587.
Metallic blue with sunset graphics. 351-ci V8, auto. 16,000 miles. Sold
at $48,300. Bring a Trailer, 6/9/2020. 28 bids. Condition: 2-
WIGGINTON This Bronco flooded my brain with
memories of post-college summers in the
Midwest. We would go late-night brush bashing in my
friend’s much scrappier and used-hard first-generation
Bronco, headed deep into the woods to drink some
Blues.
This second-gen truck features the garish Sunset
side graphics, a glass-out repaint and a lot of fine work.
Bronco prices are on the rise, despite plenty of choices.
But if I’m going fishing, I don’t want the high-
maintenance, perfectly coifed trophy winner. Nope, I
want one not afraid to get brush scratches and mud in
all those hard-to-get-at places. I would rather have a
scruffy example for a third the money.
ZURSCHMEIDE I grew up in Southern California, and
like Mark, we also did our share of
scrambling around the back country in Broncos and K5
Chevy Blazers. We were always careful to wash the
evidence away so our parents wouldn’t know.
Is this Bronco really worth $48,000 today? My gut
says that the current prices for 1970s and ’80s trucks won’t last. It’s not like any of
them are special or rare, and few buyers under age 50 now will be likely to care much
about them in 10 years. This is a nostalgia vehicle for the generation that enjoyed
them when they were new.
new Panamera Turbo today. That’s why this car, with
just 50k miles, was a great deal.
While we might wish for a 5-speed manual trans-
mission, those were rare on a model marketed as a
grand-touring machine. The 4-speed automatic is typical
of the breed, and should be fine unless you’re set on
becoming a track-day hero.
WIGGINTON Like the 924 and the 944, both cheaper
variants of Porsche’s front-engine/RWD
sport coupes, the 928 never created lust for me. The 911
I get; it whispers seductively, “Let’s go fast,” but the
other three? Crickets. They answered a question my
brain never asked.
I don’t think the 928s were handsome, and the exact
Lot 32479. 1987 Porsche 928. S/N WP0JB0926HS862139. Black, black leather. 5.0-L fuel-injected V8, auto.
58,000 miles. Sold at $30,713. Bring a Trailer, 6/9/2020. 40 bids. Condition: 2-
ZURSCHMEIDE It’s lucky that the V8-powered Porsche 928 never replaced the 911 as
intended, but the 928 never got its due. There’s so much that’s right
with these cars — from the well-balanced rear transaxle design to the beautifully
proportioned body that presaged the current Panamera.
This particular 1987 928 S4 carried an original sticker price of $74,261, which is
about $172,698 in today’s dollars. So in its day, the 928 was priced comparably to a
same car coming from Toyota would be just another
Supra. It seems like the hive brain in the collector
world agrees. Prices are a good reflection of demand,
and the upside is just not there.
That said, this was a lovely example. However, for
that money, you also could have a “real” Porsche, say
a late-’70s 911SC Targa, or TWO mid-’90s Boxsters,
both of which would be more fun to drive and with
fewer maintenance issues. If you want a car for the fun,
it isn’t the 928. If you want it for collectibility, well ...
154 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 155
This 1976 Triumph TR6 certainly fits the bill.
Beautiful inside and out (don’t look at the federal
bumpers), lovingly restored and maintained and
a perfect example of the classic British sports car
(don’t looooook), right down to the anemic 104
horsepower.
The lack of grunt didn’t slow sales (ignore the
bumpers), as all but around 9,000 of the 95,000
examples were sold here.
It’s a beautiful little TR6 (I said don’t look)
for a reasonable price, well bought and sold, in a
market that hasn’t really budged much (eyes up
here, Buster) despite the obvious charms (dammit,
I looked). But try as I might, I can’t un-see those
bumpers, and I’m just not in the mood anymore.
ZURSCHMEIDE I admit I have a thing for yellow
cars. I see the color and go all
starry-eyed and my brain gets fuzzy. Next thing
you know, I’m counting out Benjamins at asking
Lot 32504. 1976 Triumph TR6. S/N CF57832UO. Inca Yellow, black
vinyl. 2.5-liter I6, 4-sp with J-type overdrive. 75,000 miles. Sold at
$29,925. Bring a Trailer, 6/9/2020. 30 bids. Condition: 2+
WIGGINTON There is that moment when you just have
to do what Keith says (not what Keith
does): spend the money, buy a car from a marque fanatic
and enjoy without headaches.
price. When the glamour wears off, I’ve learned that there is no greater fool out there.
At least I’m the best at something, right?
I had an opportunity to buy a perfect TR6 for $3,500, back about 1987 or so. It
would have been a good investment. But is this one still a good buy at $30,000? I’d
say it is. Clean British sports cars will always find a market, and time has been kind
to the TR6 design. Big, ugly rubber bumper overriders notwithstanding, this is a car
that will always be desirable, and this particular one is remarkably clean.
Lot 32450. 1986 Chrysler LeBaron Town & Country wagon.
S/N 1C3BC59K1GF207316. Metallic blue with woodgrain, blue
cloth. 2.5-L I4, auto. 11,000 miles. Sold at $8,400. Bring a
Trailer, 6/9/2020. 13 bids. Condition: 3+
ZURSCHMEIDE This sale is how you know the
RADwood craze has jumped the
shark. The ’86 Chrysler LeBaron Town & Country
was a penalty box when it was new, and nothing
has changed.
Chrysler’s 2.5-liter “K” engine made an anemic
100 horsepower. Those lonely ponies then passed
through Lee Iacocca’s notorious “Broken Dreams”
3-speed automatic transmission on an unhappy
journey to the 7-Eleven parking lot at the corner of
Disappointment and Ennui.
What are you going to do with it? Display it?
For the love of God, you’re not going to daily-drive
it, right? These cars are not comfortable, they’re
not fun, and the woodgrain stickers don’t even
count as ironic. Some cars should go gently into that good night. This is one of them.
WIGGINTON The first driving lesson I got (thanks, Mom!) was in a 1962 Mercury
Colony Park wagon. And before that, I spent lots of time in the back of
it, especially the rear-facing third seat — the prime kid location.
I love big old land yachts, and as a driving teen, I appreciated that you could hold
that sucker in the automatic’s second gear and wait for the 390-ci V8 to come up on
the cam. It absolutely romped.
There are so many cool old wagons. The last thing
anyone needs is a K-car version. Nobody wanted one
then, so why should you now? For the $8,000 this one
brought, how about a 1968 Datsun 510 wagon? It’s no
land yacht, but now you are talking fun, fun, fun with
an upside.
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 155
Page 156
DOUBLE TAKE
Lot 32497. 1956 NSU Prinz. S/N 4015918. Red, black and red vinyl.
583-cc parallel twin, 4-sp. 25,000 miles. Sold at $6,300. Bring a
Trailer, 6/9/2020. 22 bids. Condition: 3
WIGGINTON Coming or going? It’s hard to tell by the
design. It’s also hard to tell from the
prices, with a museum-quality Prinz setting the market
at $23,000 way back in 2013.
German sewing machine/motorcycle company NSU
started cranking out the Prinz in 1956. The 583-cc
twin, plunked in the back, was an air-cooled four-cycle,
noisy enough to make you forget it only makes 30
horsepower. It features a big greenhouse with great
visibility, as well as oddities like split side windows
(think side-curtains) that cranked back rather than up
and down.
Fun useless fact: When the Mercury astronauts
were doing all that Right Stuff, most of them drove
Corvettes, except the frugal John Glenn, who drove a
Prinz for its fuel economy, saving petrodollars for the
old college fund.
The BaT offering was much better than a sweet-
looking driver, and fetched only $6,000, which seems
like cheap fun. As NSU advertising once said, “Drive a
Prinz and you are a King.”
ZURSCHMEIDE $6,000 for a clown car? Sign me up. I
will giggle my way along at 25 mph with
the little air-cooled engine putting away behind me.
More than that, it will be worth the price of admission
to pull into any car show and see the looks on the faces of the hot-rod guys. For maximum
entertainment value, pull this Prinz into any Cars & Coffee and park it along
Ferrari row.
From a strictly mercenary standpoint, this car is a good investment. Any kind of
oddball collectible can pull $6,000, and this one is in much better shape than most.
This is not a car that’s likely to gain a lot of value in the future, but you won’t lose
any money either.
about 2,800 perfectly balanced pounds, and that 2.0liter
VTEC engine revs up to 8,300 rpm. Oh, and the
top comes off. What’s not to like?
While the sale price of $31,500 sounds high for even
a few years ago, top sales for S2000 models have been
approaching $50,000 in the past year. $30,000 is a typical
price for a well-kept example like this one. If you
ever want to own an S2000, the time is now.
WIGGINTON I have owned four Miatas, all bought
well used with 100k odometers. They are
truly the perfect disposable used sports car. Each I
bought for around $4,000, and each I sold later for
around $4,000. Good fun, zero maintenance issues and
a giggle. Perfect.
When the Honda S2000 debuted, I barely noticed.
Lot 32447. 2001 Honda S2000 convertible. S/N JHMAP11461T003975. Grand Prix White, red and black
leather. 2.0-L fuel-injected I4, 6-sp. 24,000 miles. Sold at $31,500. Bring a Trailer, 6/8/2020. 26 Bids.
Condition: 2+
ZURSCHMEIDE Both the Miata and the S2000 showed what the Japanese could do with
the lightweight sports-car concept, at a level of reliability that their
European predecessors could only dream of.
The S2000 offers about 240 horsepower, a 6-speed manual transmission, rearwheel
drive, and an appropriate chassis, suspension and braking package. It weighs
The styling leaves me cold. When new, they both went
for around $20,000, which is what the bulk of the
S2000s get today.
I’ll admit that by every metric the S2000 is a better
car: faster, tighter, and better handling. Meh. At the end
of the day, I wouldn’t have even looked at the listing,
because the car lacks zazz. This one was a nice lowmiles
example, but I lack Jeff’s belief in a big upside.
And I’ll bet you aren’t going to drive it much (to keep
the miles low), so what’s the point? ♦
156 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 158
UNLOCKING A CAR
1968-
by Paul Hardiman
Why an S2?
It’s a conundrum: The Series II E-type,
introduced in 1968, is cheaper to buy than a
Series I, and, with better brakes, cooling and
transmission, it’s easier to live with. Along with
a host of detail improvements that began to
filter in on the so-called Series I½s after 1966,
it lost some of the original’s design purity —
the covered headlights, small air intake and
slim taillights, whose shape is emulated on
modern Jags — but became nicer to drive.
That makes it worthy of a closer look — and
look closely you must, because one feature
Jaguar didn’t fix was the propensity to rust.
Which one? Available as a roadster (Open Two-Seater, in Jaguar-speak) or coupe (actually a three-door
hatch), S2s had the option of rear seats (but only for kids) with the 2+2 introduced in 1966 on the S1. It
has a nine-inch-longer wheelbase, cleverly added to the doors. But with a higher roofline and more-upright
windscreen, it makes the car look lumpen — even pregnant — from some angles. All S3s are on the longer
wheelbase, and all S3 coupes are 2+2.
The chassis number is found on the step on the right-side sill when you open the front
clamshell. The number is repeated on top of front “picture frame” by the right front
shock top mount. It’s not unheard of for coupes to be chopped or rebodied as roadsters,
although not as likely as with S1s. See the list of chassis numbers to determine body
style. The LHD roadster is the most numerous S2, followed by the LHD 2+2. The
engine number should start 7R: The last digit denotes the compression ratio.
1968–71 Jaguar E-tType Series II
e S
s I
E-types use the clever
William Heynesdevised
independent
rear suspension first
seen on the Mark
X, which uses the
driveshaft as the
upper wishbone. A
little play in the rear
hubs is inevitable
(otherwise it wouldn’t
work), but you don’t
want to hear clunks.
Rust is your biggest worry, and E-types hide it well, so it’s best to assume that unless the car’s been restored, it’s rotten. U.K. specialists sometimes
keep only the bulkhead when restoring a car, and it’s from there backward the troubles begin (any damage to the front subframe, which carries engine
and suspension — and should be body color — should be obvious). A quick look at the quality of finish in the door sills (look up in the doglegs)
and in the fuel-filler recess is a good snapshot of the restorer’s diligence. Check rockers, doors and side panels: A slightly bulging appearance when
sighting down the sides of the car indicates they’re full of filler. Make sure the sill drains are still present and clear. While you’re under there, expect to
find some welding repairs to floorpans and trailing-arm mounts — the worst-case scenario will look like a patchwork quilt, and the true horror will
only be revealed by acid dipping. Walk away quickly — or just run.
158 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
ROAD VALUE
Go Wide, Young Man
The Testarossa is a symbol of the ’80s — but it’s also a practical supercar
by Paul Hardiman
just niggling electrical faults.
The elephant in the room — engine out for a cam-belt
change — has been ameliorated somewhat as specialists,
in the U.K., at least, have got the job down to around
$3,000. Read the various forums and you’ll find that
some owners are confident enough in the engine to be
less fastidious about sticking rigidly to the belt-change
regime. Of course, your mileage may vary.
There’s reasonable storage in the front trunk and
behind the seats. Ride comfort is pretty good, and the
radiators are in the rear, so there are no hot pipes passing
though the passenger zone as on the preceding Boxer.
These cars even have a decent-sized fuel tank.
U.K. petrolhead Harry Metcalfe hammered his
across the Sahara desert in Morocco a couple of years
back and suffered only an immobilizer problem due to a
faulty soldered joint. After a call home to his specialist
to identify it, he fixed it himself in a hotel car park.
300 hp, they’re good for 170 mph, and Granny could hardly tell the difference from
her Civic on her way to the shops. The only Achilles’ heel is the slightly weak clutch,
which costs at least $1,000 to change. If you don’t want to run that gauntlet, they’re
even available in auto. $60k will buy one. But it doesn’t have enough cylinders.
An Aston Martin Vanquish S has a V12 and will get you near 200 mph for not much
W
more than $100k. For some, it’s tainted by its Ford connections, built during Blue Oval
ownership and with its motor assembled in Cologne.
I’m a big fan of the C4 Corvette, available in 200-mph-plus Callaway twin-turbo
form (RPO B2K — and it’s a jiggler!) for $50k, but that is bending the rules, as it isn’t
a proper mid-engined poster-worthy supercar. Aside from the McLaren, none of the
above really are.
For that, you’ve got to go Italian.
From poster to garage
Forget the Countach that you can’t see out of (and really do have to sit up on the
sill to back up). For a down-to-earth price point, your dream-turned-practical-reality
should be a Ferrari Testarossa.
The Testarossa is easy to drive, completely of its time with straked and grilled
Millennium Falcon looks and the wides
vision out in nearly all directions.
And, of course, that intoxicating L
soundtrack: yowly exhausts overlaid wi
and valves and springs and things. Rem
the flat 12, derived from the Boxer, is
just a classic Maranello V12 opened o
180 degrees. And it’s a Ferrari. And mo
them are red.
For all its excess width and bacon-slic
styling — symbols of the big-haire
shoulder-padded ’80s — the 385-hp red
head is a fairly stout old thing. It’s not
prone to major breakages — mostly
160 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
hen SCM asked me to write about usable, practical supercars, my first reaction
was to pick the McLaren F1. You could put Granny in it and she could
drive it to the shops and back. But they’re $15m, which isn’t very practical.
How about the Acura NSX? “The best Ferrari never made.” With near
The price of fame
It’s not perfect, however: The driving position is a
slight hangover from the “Italian ape” days, so the pedals
are a bit close, and because you are well forward,
they’re offset
to clear the big wheelarches. The gear
change (only 5-speeds then) is typically weighty for a
pre-Montezemolo-era Ferrari but the steering isn’t, even
without power assistance.
The glass area is generous, the large mirrors widely
spanned, and there’s even half-decent vision out of the
rear — much better than a Countach or Lotus Europa.
One quirk is that the door windows tend to suck out-
wards over 150 mph, presumably due to some strange
goings-on with the airflow over the wide, flat flanks and
tail, but that won’t be bothering us these days.
Grip is more than you need on the road and, although
the TR is essentially a development of the 512 Boxer,
with weight bias that’s both strongly (60:40) rearward
and slightly high thanks to the engine sitting on top of
the transmission, you won’t discover any untowardness
unless you do something really silly.
With 7,177 made from 1984 to 1991, there are plenty
about, starting from under $80k if you’re brave, but
tic. Plus there’s the 512 TR (1992,
12 M versions (1994, 501) that ran
996, costing more.
hard collectors want the early high-
d “monospecchio” version, but
ou’d pay extra for only one mirror
t know. Twin mirrors came in 1987.
r spares, it’s not as troublesome as
u might think. Even the metric-sized
X rubber used on the early cars is
able again.
o there you have it — a “practical”
ari. Just be sure to get the poster,
♦
Page 162
SHOOTOUT! SCM EXPERTS DUEL IT OUT
Publisher Martin Wants a Mercedes
Two Mercedes-Benz gurus, Dean Laumbach and SCM’s own Pierre Hedary,
go dueling to help Publisher Martin buy a car
This is Publisher Martin’s first-ever
Shootout. He’s trying to decide between
the R107 (1971–89), R129 (1989–2001)
and R230 (2001–present) Mercedes-Benz
cars, and Dean Laumbach and Pierre
Hedary are ready to draw.
Laumbach’s final shot: 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG convertible, a $9,000 sale at Leake Tulsa, OK, in 2019
Dean Laumbach
Dean Laumbach Consulting LLC
Mercedes-Benz restoration and brokerage
www.deanlaumbach.com
The 1971–89 560SL
Final edition 1988–89 R107 models will
continue to hold top billing as the collectors
are seeking the best of the breed with the
smaller, less-conspicuous U.S.-mandated
third brake light mounted on the rear of the
trunk. Low mileage, all-original examples
with a documented service history can still
be purchased in the high-$30k range and up,
with extremely low-mileage, pristine, singleowner
examples typically breaching the $50k
mark.
Clean,
low-mileage
1986–87 models
with excellent service histories and free of
corrosion and deferred maintenance can be
purchased in the $25k range with a lot of legwork
and due diligence. 1984–85 380SL cars
are great buys and have the double-row timing
chain from the factory. It has a little less
horsepower (rated at 155 hp) than the 560SL,
but all the classic styling can be had for a lot
less with this trade-off. It’s not uncommon
to find a very clean, low-mileage example
offered in the high teens to low $20ks. 1971
162 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
350/450SLs are also great buys, with fewer
creature comforts, and early models were
plagued with a few issues such as subframe
mounts and vapor lock.
1990–2002 R129
The R129 I6 300SL and the V8 500SL
were introduced to the U.S. market in 1990,
with the V12 600 version introduced in 1993.
These cars were amazingly innovative — and
came standard with a removable hard top
and a power soft top. The base models in the
U.S. came with the M104 3.0-liter inline 6,
producing 228 horsepower, and the 5.0-liter
V8, producing 322 horsepower. The mostcollectible
models are:
• The 1997 40th Anniversary Edition cars.
These came with two unique color
schemes, EVO wheels, unique wood
grain and additional wood appointments
as well as custom embroidered
floor mats.
• 2002 SL500 and SL600 Silver Arrow
editions. These were tribute cars
celebrating the famous Mercedes-Benz
pre-war race cars. These cars came with
special Silver Arrow metallic paint,
two-piece wheels, two-tone interior and
unique wood grain.
• SL500/SL600 with Sport packages
and SL500/SL600 Silver Arrows. These
are the cars that will hit the wallet
the hardest depending on condition,
mileage and documentation of service
work. Cars with upgraded hydraulic
cylinders, perfect soft tops and Sport
packages as well as Xenon lights may
cost you $25k-plus.
The base-model SL500 is the bargain of
the breed, as many collectors will shy away
from their more-conservative styling. It is
common to find a very clean and well-maintained
example in the high teens to low-$20k
range. Find one with the hydraulics upgraded
and it’s a bargain.
The 2003–08 R230
When driving an R230, it’s almost impos-
sible to believe that this car began production
about 17 years ago. They led the field with
innovation and once again served as the
benchmark touring drop-top sports car for
others to follow. The biggest innovation was
the fully automatic retractable hard top. The
top, which requires 16 seconds to completely
retract, folds in a manner that still permits
enough space for groceries or even a small
couple of pieces of luggage in the trunk. Here
are two special models:
Page 163
• The 2003–07 SL55. This supercharged
R230 really delivered all the media
hype it garnered by the automotive
press prior to its release in 2003. The
5.5-liter supercharged engine delivered
just under 500 horsepower and achieved
0–60 mph times around the 4.5-second
mark. The interior appointments are
upgraded with brushed aluminum accents,
Alcantara accents and headliner
— and seats that have more bolster for
aggressive driving.
• The 2006–11 SL63 AMG. While losing
the supercharger of the 5.5-liter V8, the
6.3 adds an additional 8 horsepower
and is naturally aspirated. The 0–60
mph time is rated slightly slower than
the SL55, and some interior upgrades
are present in the facelift AMG model.
Dean’s final shot
The 2003–07 SL55 is the R230 that
Publisher Martin should buy, because for usedToyota
Camry money, he will get a nearly 500hp
supercar that cost over $120k new. Clean
and well maintained low-mileage examples
typically trade in the $25k to low-$30k range.
The question here is not “Which is the
best SL?” Rather, it is, “Which SL is best for
Keith Martin?” Or, we could say, “Which SL
is best for someone who just wants to have
fun with no commitment?”
Pierre Hedary
Owner, Pierre Hedary and Company
Classic Mercedes-Benz restoration, repair and servicing
www.pierrehedaryandco.com
Write the checks and don’t ask any
questions
My main job as a Mercedes-Benz techni-
cian is to tell a potential owner what can go
wrong — and how much suffering it will cost
to repair. The R230 is fast and safe. The engines
and transmissions are durable, and the SL55
and SL65 are a cheap way to go really fast.
Okay, now for the bad news ...
The R230 had fully developed onboard
diagnostics, which is a huge advantage for
diagnosing the inevitable issues with its active
body-control system, power hard top and
powertrain.
This onboard diagnostic system allows
anyone who has an SDS (Star Diagnostic
System) to pull codes out of
the R230’s
cornucopia of modules. When the power top
or ABS system hydraulics act up, just write
the checks and don’t ask for an explanation.
There is a line for the ABC system that runs
under the engine on these cars, and when it
fails, supposedly the whole engine has to be
removed. Enjoy the car while it lasts, but be
simultaneously prepared to abandon ship.
For those who have never experienced
Mercedes build quality
The R129 started off on a high note, stum-
bled during the middle of its production and
then recovered. I’m a big fan of the early 129,
specifically the 1990–92 300SL and 500SL.
But these cars are not for a person who just
wants a cool convertible. For this kind of
driver, the last cars of the series are best. I
am mostly referring to the 1998–2001 SL500,
with its trusty — if a little boring — M113 V8.
While the legendary M120 V12 was available
from 1992 to 2001, parts availability for this
engine, including wiring harnesses, control
modules and throttle actuators, is dwindling.
Sadly, the electronic key for any of the
R129s is still not available, and those keys
don’t last forever. There’s no way to bypass
that electronic key, either.
My last gripe about the R129 is that inte-
rior parts crumble, and power-top actuators
and modules fail without warning. While the
aftermarket is closing the gap — you can buy
rebuilt top actuators — parts supply for the
R129 is not as good as it is for the 107.
The R107: A true lifetime Mercedes
The R107 is the kind of Mercedes for the
owner who wishes to do their own repairs.
It is also for the kind of person who would
rather have an analog car — no evil modules
or scanners required. All 1976-and-later
U.S.-market 107s don’t need a functioning
fuel-injection module to run.
The R107s simplicity means that you will
spend time replacing worn mechanical parts,
including timing chains, suspension bushings
and climate-control parts. The initial
sorting bill is high, but the cars stay right for
a long time.
I am inherently biased. I own a 1979 and
a 1980 450SLC. The seating in the standard
107SL is a little tight for someone my size.
While these are great cars, I think our potential
owner — are you listening, Keith? —
may want instant gratification.
Pierre’s final shot
Publisher Martin should hedge his bets
on a late-production, low-mileage R129, and
here’s why:
First, I know that any repair costs will be
Hedary’s final shot: 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL500 convertible, $11,000 at Barrett-Jackson’s 2019 Northeast sale
manageable. Second, the R129 still has some
Mercedes classic DNA in its underpinnings.
Third, the car should hold its value. Just make
sure all the top cylinders are fresh and that it
comes with more than one key! ♦
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 163
Page 164
READER FORUM
What’s Your Sleeper Car Pick for 2025?
We recently asked SCMers this question: The market is always evolving. Sleeper cars tend to come on strong from a relatively quiet corner
of the market — they tend to initially surprise us when they become a new trend, but then seem like obvious choices after the fact. A good
example in today’s market is the Toyota Supra Mk 4.
Considering that, and how the market has been changing of late, what do you think the top three sleeper collectible cars will be in 2025? Why?
The 1988–99 Nissan
240SX is hot with the drift-car
set right now. That said, I
predict that as those folks
age, they will want a 240SX in
pristine, unmodified, factoryoriginal
condition, and those
will be true unicorns. If you can
find one today, buy it and hold.
Shelby Mustangs (second
and third generations).
They have built a bunch of
these since 2008, and that
continues to hold the prices
down. In a very few years, car
manufacturers will no longer
produce this type of vehicle.
When that happens, I predict
there will be a mad scramble
to buy recent factory hot rods,
as they will never be produced
again. Get yours while the
getting is good.
The 1992–94 Lexus
The first-generation Toyota Celica was the first real Japanese sport coupe that could live up to its looks. They were once everywhere
but now are rarer than T-Rex skulls. Most pictures I see in magazines of one are almost always the same green one in the Toyota museum.
They simply fell off the face of the earth. And the early ones were much more fun than people realize.
The 1980s Chevrolet El Camino is an iconic and usable classic that is getting a lot of attention in public all of a sudden. I have some
pretty special and rare European cars, but I if I use the El Camino, people are all over it.
The 1975–81 Lancia Montecarlo’s design has aged incredibly well. In fact, it’s better-looking now then it was in its day. Other than an
X1/9 (which is the Italian 914 1.7 and will never be a high-dollar car), can you think of another affordable mid-engine Italian car with engine
and body from legendary names? They are still inexpensive, relatively rare (especially in the U.S., where we got the less-powerful Scorpion)
and rust has made them even rarer. — Glen Getchell, Seminole, FL
The 2004–05 Subaru WRX STi. The current 2020 market for unmodified cars
ranges from $25k to $35k. The 2025 market for unmodified cars will be $45k–$60k.
The Renault Clio V6 is the true successor to the Renault Turbo 2. These are still
cheap in Europe, but never again will you see a car built with the engine essentially in
with the occupants. In 2025, clean cars will bring $60k–$75k.
The 1985 Lamborghini Countach Downdraft cars were the “big-blocks” of the
Countach world. Do not confuse this special variant with other Countach offerings. When
you read articles on Countaches hitting 190 mph, they were the Downdraft versions. Yes,
Countaches have come down in value, but this version is charging back quickly and has
already surpassed high values before the drop. My 2025 prediction is $850k–$950k for
great cars. — Brian Pettey, via email
SC400 is a magnificent
automobile that is still
beautiful today, and it will
run for as long as you take
reasonable care of it. It took
the world by storm back in the
early 1990s, and I predict it
will again as a cool collectible.
Try and find one with low
miles, and I suspect you will
be smiling all the way to the
bank in a few years. — Don
Moler, Topeka, KS
The first-gen, 6-speed manual Audi
R8. This car has timeless, iconic styling,
post-C8 mid-engine cachet — and will
catch a 911-like wave at some point.
The Alfa-Romeo 4C. This mid-engine car does 0–60 mph in under four
seconds, 35 mpg highway and has reincarnated first-gen Dino styling with a
real carbon-fiber tub. — Roger Manny, via email
164 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 165
Exotics from the 1990s and early 2000s have a high likelihood of
being desirable collector cars. The Lamborghini Diablo to me is the sleeper
car, as they were far more civilized and refined than the Countach and are
more reliable than any Ferrari of that era. You can pick up a well-sorted early
Diablo for under $200k, which is a good value for a well-known, limitedproduction
exotic. The SVs are particularly rare, as only 184 were built but run
closer to $300k. Either will trend higher over the next five to 10 years and are
a good investment at this point in time. — Mark Turner, San Jose, CA
In my mind, a sleeper car is one that doesn’t sell well or gain big attention
today but does tomorrow. It slips by unnoticed while on the new-car lot —
but then gets attention on the used-car lot. Looking along those lines, what
will sell poorly today but be sought out in 2025?
Stock Jeeps. My reasoning isn’t based on the stratospheric prices brought by the
current market darlings — tricked-out Blazers, Broncos and Toyotas, but rather a
move to basic vehicles. No stereo, no a/c, and much of the time, no glass windows, let
alone auto braking or lane nannies.
Currently cheap to buy, easy to restore and service, Jeeps, whether they be civil
CJ-2, 3, 5 or their military brethren, have heritage and a fun feel about them.
Premium prices will be paid for those without the owner-installed aftermarket trinkets
of engine, suspension and wheel swaps (an analogy would be, would you rather have a
stock muscle car or one loaded with a catalog of dubious-quality add-ons designed to
impress the guys at the Tastee-Freez or the high-school parking lot?). A Jeep is about
as “real” as it gets. — John Boyle, SCM Auction Analyst
Answer: anything with a manual. They
are clearly going the way of the dodo
— but are wanted by a small-but-loyal
enthusiast group for the engagement of
driving.
So go find that last BMW M3, Cadillac CTS-V, Civic Type R, Golf GTi, etc.
with a third pedal. At some point, manufacturers won’t want to pay for crash
testing on these new models when the take-rate is too low.
For me, I’m driving a 2009 BMW 335i. I bought it new with a 6-speed,
no navigation, in the colors I wanted. It’s great, and I hope to keep it going
another 20 years. We’ll see. — James S. Eubanks, via email
The Ferrari 360 Modena 6-speed
manual. This represents a technological
revolution for Ferrari — an aluminum body and
an entirely new drivetrain. This is one of Ferrari’s
last great manual cars. Its styling is absolutely
beautiful and timeless; the performance is very
respectable and it is a reliable car that is a joy to
drive. A perfect mix of old and new.
The Porsche 944 Turbo represents a large
step forward in the transaxle cars for Porsche.
The 944 Turbo is an iconic 1980s vehicle. It has
a timeless design that still looks great today
and has performance that can keep up to
modern-day cars. Since a fair number were built,
parts are easy to come across — both original
and aftermarket. The tip of the iceberg for
collectibility is the 944 Turbo Cup cars, with only
392 built and which represent the start of Cup
Racing for Porsche.
The 1992–95 Dodge Viper. Raw American
muscle! The Viper is a modern-day Cobra: a rich
development and race history with multiple class
wins at Le Mans, with an excellent design and
raw performance. — Dr. Bruno Vendittelli,
via email ♦
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 165
Page 166
MYSTERY PHOTO ANSWERS
Purple is the new pink. — Jessie Cart, Saluda, NC
RUNNER-UP: Porsche knows
how to make pigs fly. — Rob Cart,
Saluda, NC
The map on the Porsche shows
the nearest available parking
spot. — Warren D. Blatz Jr., via
email
Cut here. — Leslie Dreist,
Lachine, MI
“The medicine you need
delivered in 10 minutes or less.
Guaranteed!” — Gary Goodman
(by way of much funnier son
Andrew), West Chester, PA
Porsche’s rolling ad campaign
for the new 911 “4-pot turbo.” —
Mike Pedoto, via email
Just goes to show you what a
little substance abuse can cause
one to do to a formerly beautiful
Porsche. I hope the car has simply
been “wrapped” and can be
brought back to normal after the
owner sobers up. — A.G. Dillon,
via email
Need weed? Text “25 Bud”
for VERY fast delivery. — Mike
Buettell, Balboa Island, CA
Shush! It belongs to the guy in
the white shirt over there. Don’t
KIDS & CARS
even look at him. I’m pretty
sure he is either a drug dealer
or a pimp. See anything good
on the menu? — Don Mackay,
Oceanside, CA
“I love you, you love me,
We’re a happy Zuffenhausen
family.” This purple Porsche
obviously belongs to Barney the
dinosaur. — Luke Kowalski, San
Mateo, CA
After driving the number
25 Blue Dream, Purple Haze,
sponsored by Mobil II and Jimi
Hendrix, Bubba pleaded guilty to
discouraging restaurant patrons,
a “No Parking” violation, and
having a truly bad trip. — Rob
MacLachlan, Upper St. Clair,
PA
The father/daughter team of
Rob and Jessie Cart wins both
top spots in this month’s addled
Mystery Photo contest. Why?
Because Jessie found the answer
to a very dizzy photo. Jessie gets
a new, bright blue SCM hat that
was left on top of SCM World
Headquarters for an entire year
of Oregon weather. The hat faded
to purple — with some pigeon
feathers and bleached-out spots. ♦
This Month’s Mystery Photo Response deadline: August 25, 2020
OUR PHOTO, YOUR CAPTION
Email your caption to us at mysteryphoto@sportscarmarket.com, or fax to 503.253.2234. Ties will be arbitrarily
CADDY KIDS: Two of my grandchildren — Evie and Fitzy — get behind the wheel of my 1993
Cadillac Allante. — Jay Rooney, Milton, MA
SEND YOUR PHOTOS of your next-generation gearheads to SCM. If your photo is selected, you’ll win an
official SCM cap. Send your high-res photos to kids@sportscarmarket.com. Please include your contact
info, the name of the child in the photo, the make and model of the car and any descriptive information
you would like.
166 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
and capriciously decided.
Do you have a mystery photo? Email it to mysteryphoto@sportscarmarket.com at 300 dpi in JPEG format. Please
include your name and contact information. If we use your photo, you’ll get an official SCM cap.
Subscription Renewals Comment of the Month
“[SCM is] something shared by father and son. Whoever receives it
first calls the other; long chats follow. Keep up the good work” — William
Tobin, Hutchinson, KS (SCMer since 2003)
Mike Buettell
Page 168
SCM SHOWCASE GALLERY
Sell Your Car Here! Includes SCM website listing.
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Web: Visit www.sportscarmarket.com/classifieds/place-ad to upload your photo (300 dpi jpg) and text, or
text only. Secure online Visa/MC payments.
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Magazine is not responsible for any omissions, erroneous, false and/or misleading statements of its advertisers.
ENGLISH
1965 Sunbeam Tiger Mk I convertible
Beautifully maintained, wonderful road car; a
24-year-old car that could pass for new. Not perfect,
but darn close! $24,500. Contact Robert, Ph:
541.408.5617, email: rhbpsi@aol.com. (Oregon)
GERMAN
1960 Porsche 356B roadster
S/N 659470668. Midnight Blue/Tan. 0 miles. V8,
4-spd manual. An exceptionally rare, barn-fresh
(garage, really!) unrestored find of a 1965 Rootes
Sunbeam Tiger Mk I convertible with the 260/164hp
V8 engine—a car which we subsequently
mechanically restored to daily-driving condition
and repainted in an original “Tiger” factory
striking Midnight Blue color with a reupholstered
tan interior. Original and rare factory hard top!
$55,000. West Coast Classics LLC. Contact Simon, Ph:
424.376.5151, email: wcclassics@aol.com. (CA)
1975 Triumph TR6 2-door convertible
S/N 11102612004365. Burgundy/tan Leather.
89,241 miles. V8, automatic. An absolutely
exceptional example of this rare, unrestored, allstock
and mostly completely original survivor 1971
Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 coupe with believed-to-be
89k original miles! The original factory Burgundy
color paint is in exceptional condition. The rare and
highly desirable factory options, including the alloriginal
interior, include the original steering wheel,
all-original Roser leather Cognac seats, original
wood, original Becker Europa radio, power windows,
low grille, original owner’s manuals and original
factory BEHR air conditioning; this striking example
would prove a worthy addition to any collection.
$94,500 OBO. West Coast Classics LLC. Contact
Simon, Ph: 424.376.5151, email: wcclassics@aol.
com. (CA)
1973 Porsche Carrera RS
Condor Yellow/Just out of 60-year ownership is this
special-order Condor Yellow and gray roadster. This
car is fully numbers matching and is in outstanding
condition throughout, with original body panels
including the pans, great gaps and panel fit, hood
never bent and no clips or accident repairs. One
older repaint in the rare and beautiful shade of
yellow presents well. $159,500. Contact Don, Ph:
631-786-6511, email: dahearn67@gmail.com.
(NY)
1965 Porsche 912
work on engine, other areas by Porsche specialists.
Beautiful body and paint work in original Conda
Green. Complete interior upholstery done, correct
materials. Engine rebuild, wheels refinished.
Outstanding example of very rare 911S coupe.
Contact Mark, Ph: 858.459.3500, email: info@
grandprixclassics.com. (CA)
1971 Mercedes-Benz 3.5 V8 2-door hard top
S/N 130BC 0002519. Mediterranean Metallic
Blue/Black / Tangerine. 82,639 miles. V6, 5-spd
manual. Beautiful example of rare Pininfarina GT
coupe. Fresh cosmetic restoration to high standard,
new paint, all mechanicals refreshed. Fully sorted
and ready to enjoy design icon. Bella! $31,975. Bello
Moto. Contact Dean, email: dean@inthemixmedia.
net. Website: https://www.bellomoto.com/1973-fiatpininfarina-130-coupe-d176.
(CA)
AMERICAN
1968 AMC AMX
1973 Pininfarina 130 coupe
Red/black. 31,000 miles. Rare AMX true 2-seater.
Special Order 343. Hurst 4-speed. Concours winner.
Perfect paint, glass, black interior. 31,000 rustfree
miles. With scarce original books, manuals,
brochures! Owned by Kenosha, WI, factory
worker who built it! $39,500. Contact Bob, Ph:
715.772.4992, email: melissaulbricht@gmail.
com. (WI)
2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport
convertible
S/N CF37838U. Pimento/Chestnut. 47,500 miles.
Inline 6, 4-spd automatic. Well-sorted car with
multiple prestigious concours awards, 47,500
original miles, second owner in 43 years, all-original
paint and interior, highly desirable color
combination, Chestnut boot, black top, black torneau
cover, stored winters, five Dayton knockoff chrome
wire wheels, Redline Michelin tires, reflective stripe
on top, performs wonderfully, ready to show or
drive, one of the best in the market! $29,995.
Contact Howard, Ph: 917.846.6400, email:
howardamchin@aol.com. (NYS)
1996 Jaguar XJS convertible
S/N 35009*. 3,810 miles. One of first 100 built.
Only nine exist from the 100. Chosen as one of 48
Most Significant Porsches in the World for Museum
Exhibition. Owned by Legend Fred Goeske. Won
Museum Perfection Award. Matching numbers.
Insured by museum for $385k. Will sell now for
significantly less. Condition 2. Contact Fuad, Ph:
323-767-7753, email: AutomobileTreasures@
gmail.com.
1970 Porsche 911S
Topaz/Oatmeal. 30,400 miles. 4.0-L; 30,400-mile,
two-owner car; present owner since 2008. Pristine
condition; six concours 2008–12; avg. 99.84 points.
Window sticker; maintenance records since 2008.
168 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
S/N 9110300085. Conda Green/black. 2.2-L, 180-hp
6-cylinder. Matching-numbers engine, transmission.
Fully restored by Elite Restoration 2015–17. Further
S/N 116-372 & 116-414. Red/white. 70,000 miles.
V8, 5-spd manual. New transmission, clutch, pressure
plate and resurfaced flywheel. New shocks, plugs
and wires. Valve adjustment and tune-up. Pw, ps.
Michelin 215X70VR14. ANSA exhaust. $60,000-plus
in restoration costs. Leather interior and carpet
binding. A/C disconnected and parts saved. Parts car
had 29,000 miles and was running when taken apart
in 1986. $90,000. Contact Dr. Joe, Ph: 562.335.8499,
email: ejcuny@verizon.net. (CA)
Absolutely outstanding example of a Carrera RS
Touring. This German-delivered third-series car is
fully numbers matching, with two different German
inspection reports and FIA certification. The RS
competed at the following classic rallies in the early
2000s: France Tour, Coupe Des Alpes, Tour Auto Lissac,
and the Classic Six Hours of Spa. Then a beautiful
German restoration with some later American
work including a trip to Porsche Classic for complete
fuel-injection rebuild and detail as well as full
sorting. This RS performs as well as it looks. Genuine
no-stories car that is ready to be enjoyed. Contact
Don, Ph: 631-786-6511, email: dahearn67@gmail.
com. (NY)
ITALIAN
1970 Maserati Indy 2-door coupe
Black Rose Metallic/Jet Black. 7,892 miles. Inline 8.
Less than 8k miles. Finished in Black Rose Metallic
with Jet Black leather interior. Upgrades include
2LT package, 8-speed paddle-shift automatic
transmission, remote vehicle start, aluminum wheels,
premium floor mats and exhaust tips. Standard
equipment includes 19-inch wheels in front with
20-inch wheels in the rear, 6.2-L V8 engine, drivermode
selector, capless fuel system, rear camera,
performance brakes, RWD, rear spoiler and driver
information center. Touch Screen with Chevy MyLink
Bose Audio System. Only 465 originally fitted
with this paint color. $59,000. Contact Oscar, Ph:
318.578.2241, email: oscar.pickens12@yahoo.
com. (CO) ♦
Page 170
RESOURCE DIRECTORY Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information; e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
ADVERTISING / MARKETING
Barrett-Jackson Auction. 480.421.6694.
Motorwerks Marketing.
1-833-4-MWERKS. Founded on a passion
for the special interest, classic and collector
automotive marketplace, Motorwerks is a fullservice
marketing and creative agency. With a
focus on crafting a high impact, highly effective,
budget- and time-sensitive message, Motorwerks
brings a level of industry expertise that is tailor
made to meet your brand’s objectives. We only
service clients in the Specialty Automotive arena
and like you, our team are first and foremost true
automotive enthusiasts. Ask us what we can do for
you! Info@MotorwerksMarketing.com
www.MotorwerksMarketing.com (AZ)
ADVISOR SERVICES
480.421.6697. For over four decades, the BarrettJackson
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, Barrett-Jackson 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.
3020 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
info@barrett-jackson.com.
www.barrett-jackson.com (AZ)
Premier Auction Group. 844-5WE-SELL.
GAA Classic Cars Auction, Greensboro,
NC. 1.855.862.2257. A classic, muscle and unique
vehicle auction experience. Offering 650-plus
vehicles three times per year: spring, summer and
fall. All presented in a climate-controlled, enclosed,
permanent, dedicated facility affectionately
called “The Palace”. GAA Classic Cars brings
you a customer-oriented team full of southern
hospitality, a floor team with many years of classic
auction experience and a selection of vehicles that
continues to evolve and grow with each sale. www.
gaaclassiccars.com, 1.855.862.2257 (NC)
Leake Auctions. 800.722.9942. Leake
Bonhams is the largest auction house to hold
Valenti 360 LLC. 414.421.6300. Valenti 360
LLC is a premier global automotive consulting firm
offering specialty procurement, auction assistance,
value assessment, estate planning, collection
management, and expert testimony on collector
and special interest automobiles and automobilia.
We ensure that your buying, selling, or investing
decisions are well-informed. Valenti 360’s practice
spans thirty years in the industry with extensive
hands-on experience performing concours level
restorations, custom one-off builds, service, sales,
valuations, and more. Our goal is simple. We want
to help you navigate the curves with ease, so you
can fully enjoy the road. www.valenti360.com
AUCTION COMPANIES
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
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)
The auction professionals that have been taking
care of you for the last two decades have partnered
together to create a team that is dedicated to
providing the utmost customer service and auction
experience. We applied our 83 years of auction
experience to build a platform ensuring that every
aspect of our company exceeds your expectations.
Join us for the Gulf Coast Classic March 17 & 18, in
Punta Gorda, FL. 844-5WE-SELL / 844-593-7355
www.premierauctiongroup.com
info@premierauctiongroup.com
Raleigh Classic Car Auctions.
919.269.5271. BUY — SELL — SPECTATE
We are proud to offer some of the most desirable,
low mileage, original and collectible vintage
automobiles nationwide. Offering 300-plus
vehicles twice each year in June and December —
all within modern, well ventilated, temperature
controlled and very comfortable facilities. The
Raleigh Classic Car Auctions offers honesty and
unmatched customer service for everyone involved
to make the buying or selling process fun and
stress-free. WWW.RALEIGHCLASSIC.COM
INFO@RALEIGHCLASSIC.COM
New England Auto Auction. 207.594.4418.
Branson Auction. 800.335.3063. The
Branson Auction is now in it’s fourth decade
of “service to the collector”. Jim and Kathy Cox
have made a career out of helping the newest
enthusiast to the hobby and the veterans
who have been coming to Branson twice a
year for over forty years. They help arrange
transportation, reservations, appraisals, detailing
and maintenance for one or fifty cars. Dedicated
to the hobby and collectors as well. Ask what they
can do for you! www.bransonauction.com
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)
Gooding & Company. 310.899.1960.
310.526.6594. Gooding & Company offers
its international clientele the rarest, awardwinning
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 record-setting
Scottsdale Auction in January and a world-class
auction at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation in
Florida in March. www.goodingco.com. (CA)
Presented by the Owls Head Transportation
Museum, the New England Auto Auction™ is the
nation’s largest and longest-running event in its
class that operates solely to preserve the legacy
of transportation’s earliest pioneers. Over more
than four decades, NEAA™ has continuously raised
the bar by connecting discerning enthusiasts and
collectors with rare and sought-after automobiles.
Web: owlshead.org; Email: auction@ohtm.org
RM Sotheby’s. 800.211.4371.
RM Sotheby’s is the world’s largest auction
house for investment-quality automobiles.
With 35 years’ experience in the collector car
industry, RM’s vertically integrated range of
services, coupled with an expert team of car
specialists and an international footprint, provide
an unsurpassed level of service to the global
collector car market. For further information, visit
www.RMSothebys.com (CAN)
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 and exotics.
www.classic-carauction.com (CA)
Russo and Steele Collector Automobile
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
County 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
170 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Auctions. 602.252.2697. Specializing in the
finest American muscle, hot rods and custom
automobiles and European sports; Russo and
Steele 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.
Fax: 602.252.6260. 7722 East Gray Road, Suite C,
Scottsdale, AZ 85260. info@russoandsteele.com,
www.russoandsteele.com (AZ)
Page 171
AUTOMOBILIA
Steve Austin’s Automobilia & 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
Saratoga Motorcar Auctions. Located in
Saratoga Springs, NY, the fourth annual Saratoga
Motorcar Auctions returns September 18 & 19,
2020. Proceeds help to fund the educational
programs of the Saratoga Automobile Museum.
To consign a vehicle, register to bid, or to learn
more about the Saratoga Motorcar Auctions, visit
www.saratogamotorcarauction.org
AutoMobilia Resource magazine is a
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 catalogbased,
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 collection-consultancy 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
dedicated resource for anyone who collects
automobilia — from serious collectors, to the car
guy (or girl) who occasionally collects. Each issue
provides a wealth of unique editorial content from
industry experts, covering most aspects of the often
“increasing-in-value” automobilia market. PRINT
subscriptions (U.S.): 6 issues for $36 or 12 issues
for $59. DIGITAL subscription: 1 year for $29 or
1 month for $10. All print subscribers may add
digital for only $10/year extra. Call Lynn at 224558-8955
or go to AutoMobiliaResource.com/
subscribe. Or send check to: AutoMobilia Resource,
1217 Cape Coral Pkwy E, #178, Cape Coral, FL
33904. Advertising inquiries; contact Sharon at
954-579-5280 or Sharon.Spurlin@classicads.us
Editorial inquiries; contact Marshall at 631-5632876
or Editor@AutoMobiliaResource.com
Beverly Hills Car Club is one of the largest
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
BMW
European classic car dealerships in the nation, with
an extensive inventory spanning over 135,000 sf.
We can meet all your classic car needs with our
unprecedented selection; from top-of-the-line
models to project cars. We buy classic cars in any
shape or condition & provide the quickest payment
& pick-up anywhere in the U.S. 310.975.0272.
www.beverlyhillscarclub.com (CA)
The Werk Shop. 847.295.3200. BMW full
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 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 website or
social media for new arrivals, tech tips and special
offers. www.centerlinealfa.com (CO)
APPRAISALS
Passion for automobiles made visible
Created from over 100 components, this highly
detailed 3 dimensional artist’s model of the
iconic five dials is inspired by the early 911
dash, complete with functioning clock. Each dial
is hand crafted and assembled by the artist.
Customization is available. Limited edition, signed
and numbered. Many more unique motoring gifts
Gooding & Company. 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)
available at www.motorology.com. Motorology,
LLC, Williston, VT; 617.209.9902
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
and partial restorations has been our main focus for
over 20 years. We build show winners and awesome
daily drivers. Our shop is located 30 minutes north
of O’Hare Airport in Libertyville, Illinois. We also
provide our clients with collection management,
temperature/humidity-controlled storage, show
assistance and private treaty sales. We’ve built
an international reputation on our rich history of
restoring both pre- and post-war BMWs and are
honored to be recognized for the care and quality
of our work. Our collectors have won numerous
prestigious awards at Pebble Beach, Hilton Head
and many other concours. Contact us by phone or via
our website: www.thewerkshop.com (IL)
BUY / SELL / GENERAL
Blackhawk Collection, Inc. 925.736.3444.
One of the world’s foremost companies specializing
in buying and selling classic cars for clients around
the globe for over 45 years. Over the years, many
of the greatest cars in the world have passed
through the doors of the Blackhawk Collection.
Visit our website at www.blackhawkcollection.com
California Car Cover Company. 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.
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
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 171
Page 172
RESOURCE DIRECTORY Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information; e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
BUY / SELL / GENERAL (CONTINUED)
DriverSource. 281.497.1000.
Pursuing & Preserving Fine Automobiles Since
2005, DriverSource is a leading specialist in
the classic collector car market. Our concept of
sales, service and storage is tailor made to the
automotive enthusiast lifestyle. To learn more
about our services or inventory, please give as a
call or contact us via email. sales@driversource.
com. www.driversource.com
Chequered Flag. 310.827.8665.
Chequered Flag is Los Angeles’ best known classic
car dealer. We specialize in European classic and
sports cars, particularly air-cooled Porsches. We
have over 100 classics in inventory including over
25 Porsches. We appreciate our many repeat
customers with over 15,000 cars bought and sold
since 1986. www.ChequeredFlag.com
sales@chequeredflag.com (CA)
Paul Russell and Company. 978.768.6919.
Legendary Motorcar Company.
Girardo & Co. +44 (0) 203 621 2923.
Girardo & Co. provide clients with a specialist
service offering expert advice in buying, selling
and sourcing classic cars at the very top end of
the collector’s market, whilst delivering the best
possible service to clients. info@girardo.com
www.girardo.com
905.875.4700. Since 1985, Legendary Motorcar
Company has specialized in buying, selling and
restoring some of the rarest cars in existence.
For sale, in our 150-car showroom you’ll find,
ultra-rare muscle cars, European sports cars and
modern performance cars. In our 75,000 squarefoot
facility, our highly-skilled craftsmen perform
complete award-winning restorations. Whether
you are buying one special car or building a
museum, our collection management services will
help you make the right decisions. Over 30 years
in business, we have grown to become the nation’s
premier collector and performance car facility.
www.legendarymotorcar.com (ON)
www.paulrussell.com. Specializing in the sales of
1970s and earlier great European classics since
1978. You can rely on our decades of knowledge and
experience with Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, Porsche,
Bugatti, Alfa Romeo and other fine collectibles.
Guidance is given with an emphasis on building
long-term relationships. Contact our Classic Car
Sales team via email at: sales@paulrussell.com
(MA)
Precious Metals: Fine Motorcars of
Classic Auto Mall — One of the largest
Classic Car Facility’s in the world, with nearly eight
acres under one roof in a climate controlled, secure,
indoor showroom. Over 800 vehicles on display/
for sale. The Ultimate Destination for Classic and
Specialty Cars, located one hour west of Philadelphia
on the Turnpike in Morgantown, Pennsylvania.
Consignments invited, single car or entire collections.
Worldwide marketing coverage. Call 888.227.0914
or visit us at www.ClassicAutoMall.com
Luxury Brokers International.
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
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)
Hyman Ltd Classic Cars. 314.524.6000.
Classic 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
three 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)
After more than 30 years in business, Hyman Ltd
stands proudly as one of the most respected names
in the global collector-car trade. Whether your
interests focus on concours champions, brass-era
powerhouses or new-millennium icons, Hyman
Ltd’s unique approach and unrivaled experience
helps you navigate a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Our highly successful consignment program placed
some of the world’s most significant motorcars with
new owners, and our showrooms house a diverse
inventory of nearly 200 vehicles. If you are buying,
selling or exploring your options to manage your
collection, choose Hyman Ltd to serve your needs.
2310 Chaffee Dr, St. Louis, MO 63146.
314-524-6000. sales@hymanltd.com
Motor Classic & Competition Corp.
914.997.9133. Since 1979, we have been racing,
restoring, servicing, buying and selling highquality
sports, racing and GT cars. Motor Classic &
Competition is where enthusiasts find their dream.
We specialize in Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo,
Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lotus, Aston
Martin, Ford GT40, Cobras and all European sports
and vintage racing cars.
www.motorclassiccorp.com
San Diego. 619.515.2220. We are one of the
Premier Classic Exotic Dealerships in Southern
California since 2004. Owned by Dr. Perry and
Judith Mansfield, we buy, sell, consign and
provide auction management. American Classics,
Vintage European, Modern Performance. Help
with exhibiting client vehicles at car shows. Our
showroom hosts private events, art shows and club
meetings. Precious Metals is passionate about
making your car experience first class. Contact
David Young 619.515.2220, sales@pmautos.com,
www.pmautos.com (CA)
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-plus examples in
the beautiful museum district of tropical Sarasota,
FL. www.vintagemotorssarasota.com (FL)
West Coast Classics. 424.376.5151. West
Paramount Automotive Group/Foreign
Copley Motorcars. 781.444.4646.
Copley Motorcars has been trading in sports and
classics for over 20 years out of its suburban
Boston showroom, specializing in vintage Ferrari,
Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Land Rover Defender.
And now a second showroom — CopleyWest —
has opened in Newport Beach, California.
www.copleymotorcars.com
copleycars@gmail.com (MA)
www.copleywest.com
pat@copleywest.com (CA)
Cars Italia. 888.929.7202. Since 1989, we have
offered all the exclusive brands that you have ever
dreamed about. Offering new and used Ferrari,
Maserati, Aston Martin and Porsche in Greensboro,
NC, Aston Martin, Bentley and Maserati in
Charlotte, NC and Porsche in Hickory, NC. We sell,
buy and trade. Visit us at www.Paramountauto.com
or www.ForeignCarsItalia.com (NC)
Coast Classics are internationally renowned
California Classic Car Dealers who specialize in
buying and selling of rare and classic European and
American classic cars. Southern California location at
1205 Bow Avenue in Torrance. We ship throughout
the world and will provide you with unparalleled
service of your rare, sports, exotic, luxury, collector or
classic car needs. www.WestCoastClassics.com
info@WestCoastClassics.com (CA)
172 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 173
CAR STORAGE
COLLECTOR CAR INSURANCE
ENGLISH
CARS. 310.695.6403. For more than two
decades, CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation
Services) has looked after some of the most
irreplaceable motorcars in the world. CARS are now
able to offer secure indoor vehicle storage solutions
at its new state-of-the-art warehouse facility in
Los Angeles. Contact CARS directly to discuss your
vehicle storage requirements and find out more
about the many services that we offer. History has
proven that CARS are the team to trust. Do not take
any chances with your pride and joy — hand it to
the people that will care for it as their own. Fax:
+1 (310) 695 6584. Email: info@carsusa.com;
www.carsusa.com
CLASSIC CAR TRANSPORT
Barrett-Jackson is proud to endorse a new
breed of insurance for classic, antique, exotic,
special-interest, contemporary classic and limitededition
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.
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)
AUTOSPORT DESIGNS, INC. 631.425.1555.
All Aston Martin models welcome regardless
of age, as new inevitably become old! Routine
servicing-complete 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. 530.241.8337.
Intercity Lines, Inc. 800.221.3936. Gripping
the wheel of your dream car and starting the engine
for the first time is a high point for any enthusiast.
We are the premier enclosed auto transport company
that will ensure your car arrives safely for that
experience. For over 35 years, our standards for
excellence have had clients returning time and time
again. Trust the Best. Trust Intercity Lines.
www.Intercitylines.com
Grundy Insurance. 888.647.8639. James A.
Grundy invented Agreed Value Insurance in 1947;
no one knows more about insuring collector cars
than Grundy! With no mileage limitations, zero
deductible*, low rates, and high liability limits, our
coverages are specifically designed for collector car
owners. Grundy can also insure your daily drivers,
pickup trucks, trailers, motorhomes, and more —
all on one policy and all at their Agreed Value.
www.grundy.com (PA)
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)
ESTATE PLANNING ADVISORY
Classic Showcase. 760.758.6100. Classic
Hagerty. 800.922.4050. is not just the
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
world’s largest provider of specialty insurance
for enthusiast vehicles: they are all-in on the
automotive lifestyle dedicated to the love of
driving. Hagerty is home to Hagerty Drivers Club,
DriveShare, Car Values, Hagerty magazine and
MotorsportReg. Hagerty also helps keep the car
culture alive for future generations through youth
programs, support for Historic Vehicle Association
and the RPM Foundation. For more information,
call or visit www.hagerty.com (MI)
Showcase has been an industry leader in the
restoration, service and sale of classic Jaguars, and
most other 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)
Chrome Strategies Management LLC.
Trust and Estate/Wealth Advisory Services
focuses on meeting the increasingly complex
financial planning needs and interests of classic
car collectors, investors, trust, estate, wealth
professionals, and family offices. We are a
completely independent advisory that develops
best practice strategies to fit your objectives.
Please contact us to discuss our scope of services.
www.chromestrategies.com
Email to: info@chromestrategies.com
Fourintune Garage 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, WI.
EVENTS–CONCOURS, CAR SHOWS
Reliable Carriers Inc. 800-521-6393. 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 are shipping the car
of your dreams from one location to another, one
American transportation company does it all.
www.reliablecarriers.com
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
Chattanooga Motorcar Festival, October
16 - 18. Benefiting Erlanger Neuroscience
Institute, the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival will
bring hundreds of classic cars and thousands of
automotive enthusiasts to Chattanooga for a threeday,
family-friendly event. Three components will
anchor the festival schedule: High Jinks Rallye,
Time Trials and the Concours d’Elegance. Visit
www.chattanoogamotorcar.com to learn more
about how you can get involved.
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 173
Page 174
RESOURCE DIRECTORY Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information; e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
EVENTS–CONCOURS, CAR SHOWS (CONTINUED)
J.J. BEST BANC & CO. provides financing
Hilton Head Island Motoring Festival.
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 30–November 1,
2020 — in the land of Southern hospitality. To
purchase tickets or for more information, visit
www.HHIMotoringFestival.com
SCCA’s San Francisco Region (SFR)
Concours Chapter has been sanctioning concours
d’elegance since 1952. SCCA provides judges,
field crew and scorers at each SCCA-sanctioned
concours. To exhibit your motorcar, contact the
event organizers listed on each event’s own web
page. SCCA SFR Concours d’Elegance Chapter is
honored to sanction the following concours:
Coyote Creek June 28, 2020
www.coyotecreekconcours.com
Hillsborough July 12, 2020
www.hillsboroughconcours.org
Ferndale September 13, 2020
www.ferndaleconcours.org
La Jolla Concours d’Elegance
619.233.5008. Earning the reputation as one
of the finest internationally renowned classic
automobile showcases in the United States, The
La Jolla Concours d’Elegance continues to attract
discerning car enthusiasts from around the globe.
La Jolla California is proud to welcome the La
Jolla Concours d’Elegance presented by LPL
Financial and Pacific Sotheby’s International
Realty back to the jewel of the West Coast on
April 16 through 18, 2021 to celebrate its 16th
year of automotive excellence. Register and
purchase tickets at lajollaconcours.com
Danville September 20, 2020
www.danville-delegance.org
Niello October 4, 2020
www.theconcours.net
SFR-SCCA seeks new judges and field crew. Contact
Jim Perell at japerell@icloud.com or 916-765-9739.
concourscca.org
FINANCE
Bud’s Benz. 800.942.8444. At Bud’s, we sell
Classic Car Capital 310.254.9704,
Ext. 1. Maximize the return on your passion by
recapitalizing the equity in your vintage cars.
Whether to expand your collection, invest or for
personal use, you decide how to use the funds. With
unparalleled experience, service and expertise in
this highly specialized lending, we understand the
market and needs of the collector. Whether using
one car or multiple cars as collateral, we offer lines
of credit with no origination fees or prepayment
penalties.
The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering.
831.620.8879. A prominent component of
Monterey Car Week, The Quail is a world-renowned
motorsports event featuring one of the world’s
finest and rarest collections of vintage automobiles
and motorcycles. The Quail maintains its intimacy
and exclusivity by limiting admission through
lottery ticket allocations. Admission is inclusive of
six gourmet culinary pavilions, caviar, oysters, fine
wines, specialty cocktails, champagne, and more.
Web: signatureevents.peninsula.com (CA)
a full line of Mercedes-Benz parts for cars from the
1950s through the 1980s. We do minor and major
service work on most Mercedes. Restoration work;
including paint, interior, mechanical and other
services are available. We pride ourselves in doing
work that is tailored to our customers’ needs and
budgets. We also (locally) work on later-model
Mercedes, BMW, and Mini Coopers. Computer
diagnostics and work related to keeping your daily
driver on the road are all available at Bud’s.
www.budsbenz.com (GA)
IMPORT / EXPORT
Art’s Star Classics. 800.644.STAR
(1.800.644.7827). 30 years of expertise in
new and hard to find parts, as well as component
restoration for all Mercedes from 1931–1971.
Servicing owners and restorers worldwide. Star
Classics also offers: Sales and Acquisitions of all
’50s and ’60s Mercedes and restoration project
management for car owners so they realize the
car of their dreams. Contact us today: info@
artsstarclassics.com; www.artsstarclassics.com
International Phone #: 1.602.397.5300
Scott Grundfor Company. 805.474.6477.
Since the 1970s, Scott Grundfor Company has
set the bar with best of show cars. Four decades
later, we continue our long and rich tradition of
excellence in the collectible car and restoration
market. As trusted and respected MercedesBenz
experts, we strive to not only continue the
restoration and sales excellence we’ve worked so
hard to develop, but to also bring awareness to
the appreciation, preservation and history of the
automobile.scott@scottgrundfor.com
www.scottgrundfor.com (CA)
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!
GERMAN
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center.
1.866.MB.CLASSIC. 1.866.622.5277). The trusted
center of competence for all classic Mercedes-Benz
enthusiasts. Located in Irvine, CA, the Classic Center
is the only sales and restoration facility in the
U.S. exclusively operated by Mercedes-Benz. Over
50,000 Genuine Mercedes-Benz Classic Parts in its
assortment. From small services to full ground-up
restorations, work is always true to original. Everchanging
showcase of for-sale vehicles. We are your
trusted source. www.mbclassiccenter.com (CA)
CARS. 310.695.6403. For more than two
European Collectibles Inc. 949.650.4718.
Ferrari Financial Services. 201.816.2670.
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.
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)
decades, CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation
Services) has looked after some of the most
irreplaceable motorcars in the world. If you need
your vehicle transported, CARS have the expertise
and knowledge to ensure it arrives in perfect
condition, on time, and with no unexpected costs.
CARS are able to action any shipping request
through its own offices in the U.K., New York,
Los Angeles and Japan, and via its network of
global agents. Whether your vehicle needs to be
transported by road, sea or air freight, please get in
touch and allow CARS to take the worry and stress
out of your shipment needs. History has proven that
CARS are the team to trust. Do not take any chances
with your pride and joy — hand it to the people
that will care for it as their own. Fax: +1 (310) 695
6584; Email: info@carsusa.com; www.carsusa.com
174 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
Page 175
ITALIAN
Putnam Leasing. 866.90.LEASE. For over
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,
specializing in classic Ferraris of the ’50s and ’60s.
www.ferrari4you.com
The Lamborghini Club America is the
world’s largest organization of Lamborghini
owners and enthusiasts. Inclusive to both vintage
and modern Lamborghini owners, the Lamborghini
Club America is a critical asset to the Lamborghini
ownership experience. Membership includes
La Vita Lamborghini magazine, a carbon fiber
member card, special pricing at most authorized
dealers for parts and service, and much more. Join
today at: www.LamborghiniClubAmerica.com
LEASING
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 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 $1 million, 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
LeMay—America’s Car Museum celebrates
America’s love affair with the automobile. Named
the Best Museum in Western Washington, the
four-level, 165,000-square-foot 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, ACCESORIES & CAR CARE
Vintage Car Law. 717.884.9010.
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)
Luxury Lease Partners LLC. 201.822.4870.
LLP is a self-funded exotic car lessor that does not
follow conventional lending rules, such as scores,
debt-to-income ratios or comparable borrowing
requirements. LLP can provide lease financing on
any exotic car from $50,000 to $5 million, regardless
of your credit history. If you own a car and need cash,
LLP provides sale/lease-back financing so you can
keep driving your car!
Contact us at info@luxuryleasepartners.com
MULTIMEDIA PUBLICATIONS
Dr Beasley’s. Using better products to care
Turtle Garage provides readers with unique
Premier Financial Services. 877.973.7700.
As a serious sports car enthusiast, you’re always
seeking a better driving experience. Your high
standards should also apply to car financing.
Since 1997, Premier Financial Services has been
recognized by countless owners for our integrity,
deep understanding of the sports car market, high
level of customer service and ability to tailor flexible
leasing solutions. If you’ve never considered leasing,
let us explain how it could be your best financing
alternative. If you’ve leased from others in the past,
let us show you how we’re different. Either way,
you’ll benefit from starting or ending your search for
a better financing experience by contacting us at
877.973.7700. Learn more at
www.premierfinancialservices.com (CT)
insights into the collector vehicle market and
the broader automotive industry. Our exclusive
content focuses on vintage motorcycles, modern
classics, and the exciting future of the automobile
— including developments in ride-hailing,
electrification and autonomous driving. We
produce diverse articles on travel, restoration
projects, book reviews, auction analysis, vehicle
summaries and relevant automotive industry news.
“Turtle Garage is a must-read. Subscribe today.”
— Keith Martin, Sports Car Market
www.turtlegarage.com
for your vehicle can make all the difference in
the world. So start with quality products like Dr.
Beasley’s. Located in Chicago, IL, Dr. Beasley’s
manufactures detailing products that have
amazing ease of use and the performance that
professional detailers require. All of our products
have a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so try them
for yourself. Or if you’d rather, hire one of our
Authorized Detailers for the ultimate in car care
and protection. Visit www.drbeasleys.com or call
us at 773.404.1600. Let us know SCM sent you.
QuickSilver Exhaust Systems. 011 44
1428 687722. Our customers are sophisticated
enthusiasts who choose our exhaust systems for
various reasons — originality, durability, weight
reduction and enhanced sound. We’re the default
choice for many of the most important classics.
Originality is important, but there’s no reason
why subtle improvements cannot be introduced.
QuickSilver use superior materials and modern
manufacturing techniques unavailable when the
cars were new. quicksilver-exhausts.myshopify.com
RACING SERVICES
AmericanMuscle 877.887.1105. Starting out
in 2003, AmericanMuscle quickly rose to be one of
the leading aftermarket Mustang parts providers in
the business. With the addition of Challenger parts
in 2018, AmericanMuscle provides the most soughtafter
products, accessories and fast shipping.
AmericanMuscle.com
Original Parts Group Inc. 800-243-8355. At
Original Parts Group, we are proud to be the largest
USA supplier of in-stock restoration parts for your
classic GM A, B, C, E and G-body vehicle, including
newly released Cadillac CTS, ATS, STS, Escalade,
EXT and XLR. 100% privately owned to serve you
better, since 1982. We are devoted to quality parts
and customer service. Visit OPGI.com today or call
today to order your free parts catalog. (CA)
MUSEUMS
National Parts Depot. 800-874-7595.
We stock huge inventories of concours-correct
restoration parts for:
1965–73 and 1979–93 Mustang
1967–81 Camaro & Firebird
1964–72 GTO, Tempest & LeMans
1964–87 Chevelle, Malibu and El Camino
1948–96 F-Series Ford Truck
1947–98 C/K 1/2-ton Chevy Truck
1966–96 Bronco
1955–57 Thunderbird
1967–73 Cougar
www.nationalpartsdepot.com
MetroVac. MetroVac’s car vacs and car dryers
are the top choice of professional detailers and
passionate car enthusiasts worldwide, like Wayne
Carini. Our products are proudly made by American
workers using only U.S. steel. These powerful
machines are built to be virtually indestructible
and last decades. MetroVac products are the classic
way to care for classic cars. www.metrovac.com
Vintage Racing Services. 203.377.6745.
Our full-service shop facility and experienced staff
provide all aspects of racecar construction, setup and
repair for production-based cars to purpose-built
sports racers to formula cars. We can build a racecar
from the ground up, restore your historic vintage
racer to its former glory or maintain your racecar, all
to ensure your maximum enjoyment. Our trackside
support, transportation, racecar rental and coaching
can round out your experience. Our sister company,
Automotive Restorations Inc., offers high-quality
upholstery, body and paint and panel fabrication
services. www.automotiverestorations.com/vrs/home
Sports Car Market SEPTEMBER 2020 175
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY Advertise in the SCM Resource Directory. Call 877.219.2605 Ext. 218 for information; e-mail: scmadvert@sportscarmarket.com.
RESTORATION – GENERAL
Farland Classic Restoration.
Branson Collector Cars. 417.336.1155.
TOURANIL Leather by AERISTO +1 (817)
624-8400. A deep passion for classic automobiles
has led AERISTO’s founder Christian Schmidt to
develop an authentic line of classic, vegetable
tanned leathers. AERISTO, the market leader for
high end, technical aviation leathers is now proud
to offer their TOURANIL article to the restoration
community. All raw materials are sourced from
premium South German bull hides, available in
stock in a wide array of colors. Please reach out to
AERISTO to learn more. info@aeristo.com;
www.aeristo.com
“The Shop” at Branson Collector Cars began in
the late eighties for the sole purpose to maintain
and restore the owner’s personal collection and
that of a few close friends. Beginning in 2010
“The Shop” was opened to all collectors for the
maintenance, repair and full ground up
restorations. The technicians have an envious
amount of skills, experience and dedication to the
art of preserving your favorite ride. Ask for
Jason! https://bransonauction.com/the-shop/
303.761.1245. A complete facility offering
concours-level restorations, repair and fabrication
services. We work on all makes, and specialize in
Ferrari, Mercedes and Porsche. Highly organized
and fiscally responsible, we provide biweekly
detailed billing to keep you abreast of the rapid
progress of your project in every way. Check out
our site for details. Email: info@farlandcars.com.
www.farlandcarscom
On the Road Again Classics.
Hahn Auto Restoration. 724.452.4329.
Classic Showcase. 760.758.6100. For
Automotive Restorations. 203.377.6745.
Founded in 1978, we are well-established
practitioners of the art and craft of vehicle
restoration, preservation and service. Nearly
40 experienced craftspeople focused on the art
and entertainment to be enjoyed with great cars
describes our culture. Our staff and expertise
encompasses a broad range of skills and specific
vehicle experience. Proper project management
and control produces the quality and attention
to detail we have come to be known for in all we
produce. See much more on the web at
www.automotiverestorations.com
over 35 years, we’ve been restoring automotive
history by creating driver-, show/driver-, show- and
preservation-level restorations for collectors
worldwide. Our world-class facilities consist of a
team of passionate and dedicated craftsmen who
are ready to perform either factory standards or
performance/modified upgrades. Visit our website or
call us to discuss your project today.
www.classicshowcase.com (CA)
We take pride in offering concours-level collector
car restoration, recommissioning, custom builds
and repair services. With our experienced staff
and cutting-edge technology, we can restore your
car back to its original beauty and help it perform
better than when it was first driven off the lot! We
understand how much your classic car means to you
and we will treat your restoration or repair with
the quality care and respect it deserves — getting
the job done right the first time. We believe that
a restoration should last a lifetime and beyond,
so we strive to provide our clients with quality
restoration services that will last for generations.
www.hahnautorestoration.com
408.782.1100. Northern California’s largest
Classic British & American auto restoration &
repair shop is an 18,000 square foot facility under
one roof! We opened our doors in 2008 and have
restored over 20 Concours 1st place winners! Our
team of craftsman with over 140 years experience
have risen to the top, becoming a Certified Hagerty
Expert Collision Repair Facility and in-house
Certified Glasurit paint shop.
www.ontheroadagainclassics.com
Palm Beach Classics. 561.568.5906.
Hjeltness Restoration. 760.746.9966.
D. L. George Historic Motorcars.
610.593.7423. We stand at the crossroads
between you and historic European motorcars of
the pre-war and early post-war era. We provide
full-service restoration, maintenance and support
of the finest cars driven extensively by the most
refined collectors. Find us at concours from Amelia
Island to Pebble Beach, venues from Lime Rock to
Goodwood, and events including the Mille Miglia,
Peking to Paris, and The Colorado Grand.
www.DLGEORGE.com (PA)
What began as attention to detail developed into
love. We benefit from 34 years of disassembling
original cars with the intent to restore yet also
with an eye on the future, other restorers will need
benchmarks to copy. If your own personal piece of
history needs doing for the first time or the second
please contact us. www.HjeltnessRestoration.com
Palm Beach Classics has grown over the last
decade into a well-respected restoration facility
and automotive sales center known around the
world. Backed up with a very strong reputation,
we provide high-quality restorations on classic
Mercedes-Benz. We value our customers through
excellence in our work and service. Our parts
department is top notch and has a rare variety of
hard-to-find original Mercedes-Benz parts. Email:
Office@palmbeachclassics.com
www.palmbeachclassics.com (FL)
Paramount Classic Cars. 844.650.9125.
Jeff’s Resurrections has been bringing
Fantasy Junction. 510.653.7555. For
Brightworks. 937.773.5127. Brightworks
has partnered with Ruote Borrani to be the only
authorized restorer of Ruote Borrani wheels in the
world, and to be a distributor for any new Ruote
Borrani products in North America. We use the
original Ruote Borrani drawings and blueprints to
restore your wheels to exact factory standards and
offset. Additionally, we use the correct font letter/
number stamps to re-create all of the original
markings to restore your Borrani wheels to be
factory original, correct and certified.
www.brightworkrestoration.com (OH)
35 years, Owner/Enthusiast Bruce Trenery has
operated Fantasy Junction from the San Francisco
Bay Area. The dealership enjoys an outstanding
worldwide reputation for integrity and knowledge in
the collector car field. Many of the world’s greatest
sports cars have passed through the doors, with both
buyers and sellers enjoying expert representation.
Email Sales@FantasyJunction.com,
www.FantasyJunction.com (CA)
some of the world’s finest cars back to life in a
quiet corner of Central Texas for almost three
decades. Founded in 1990, we are a full-service
auto restoration facility specializing in classic,
exotic and antique vehicles, whose work has won
many awards. With a full-time team of ten skilled
mechanics, metal craftsmen, specialist re-finishers
and detailers, we offer complete mechanical and
coachwork services. Our premises encompass
36,000 square feet of historic property that once
housed a pre-war Dodge dealership in Taylor,
Texas, just a short drive from downtown Austin,
Austin Bergstrom International Airport and the
Circuit of the Americas. 512.365.5346.
www.jeffsresurrections.com (TX)
A 120,000 square foot facility located in Hickory,
NC, offering a full-array of services including
sales, consignments, complete restorations, engine
and transmission rebuilding, metal-shaping
and fabrication on classic cars. We specialize in
American muscle and English cars but also work on
a wide range of makes and models including all
European models. Our goal is to provide our clients
with the highest level of quality workmanship
and professional client services. We base our
company policy on the Golden Rule; always treat
the other person the way you want to be treated
and always endeavor to do what is right and fair.
Contact us for a free estimate on your classic.
Email us at rtheiss@paramountauto.com for more
information. www.paramountclassiccars.com
176 SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
eW CHCARL BOMSTEAD
PAGE HEADER
AT
Mike Trout is a Catch in Every Way
The Los Angeles Angels outfielder’s rookie card — signed — brings almost
$1 million at auction
I
n March of 2019, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout signed the
richest contract in sports history. The contract covered 12 years and paid
him an astonishing $430 million, or almost $38 million a year. If there is
a sports figure worth that kind of money it would be Mike Trout, as he has
been exemplary on and off the field.
Earlier this year, Goldin Auctions, at their Spring Premium sale, sold his 2009
Bowman Chrome Draft Prospect signed rookie card, after 28 bids, for $922,500.
The signature was rated 10, as was the condition of the card. With a pre-sale
estimate of $75,000, Mike Trout hit, again, another home run.
Here are a few more finds that are singles and doubles at best:
RM SOTHEBY’S ONLINE-ONLY LOT 144—PAN AMERICAN
EXPOSITION 1915 SAFETY FIRST CAR MASCOT. SOLD AT: $1,170.
Date: 2/4/2020. The Pan American Exposition was a World Fair that opened in San
Francisco on February 20, 1915. It attracted over 18 million visitors and hosted
the American Grand Prize and Vanderbilt Cup races. This ornate hood ornament
originated from the Exposition and sold for a bargain price.
MECUM AUCTIONS
EDDIE VANNOY
COLLECTION LOT
J199—GENERAL MOTORS
CENTURY OF PROGRESS
SCALE MODEL. SOLD AT:
$5,605. Date: 6/26/2020. This
impressive scale model of one of the Century of Progress buses that
toured the country with GM dream cars was about three feet in length.
It was highly detailed and a quality piece. Will be the star of any diecast
model collection — but at a price.
EBAY #193491961308—1981 PATENT
FOR DELOREAN AUTOMOBILE.
Number of bids: 56. SOLD AT: $11,600.
Date: 6/11/2020. We all know the riches-torags
story of John DeLorean and the extremes
he went to in order to keep his dream alive.
The gullwing car with brushed-stainless-steel
body panels, however, failed to meet sales expectations, and the company
entered receivership after two years. The actual company patent
came from the company files in 1982 — and created some excitement,
selling for serious money. If only the cars had created as much.
MECUM AUCTIONS
EDDIE VANNOY
COLLECTION LOT K206—
CANADIAN TWIN VISIBLE
GAS PUMP. SOLD AT:
$59,000. Date: 6/27/2020. This
extremely rare gas pump was
well restored in blue Sunoco livery.
The 10-gallon gas cylinders
were correct, and it was complete
with brass nozzle and white
fabric hoses. Part of an amazing
collection in North Carolina. A
rare but expensive treat.
MORPHY AUCTIONS LOT 1432—RESTORED CADILLAC
BUMPER CAR. Estimate: $1,500–$3,000. SOLD AT: $7,040. Date: 6/21/2020.
I doubt if a bumper car ever looked this cool when in use, but someone went
way over the top restoring this one. At least two bidders had to have it, and the
price paid far exceeded the estimates. Will be a conversation piece in a garage
full of collector cars.
at Portland, OR, and at additional mailing offices.
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Make checks to: Sports Car Market. Visa/MC accepted. For instant subscription, call 877.219.2605, 503.261.0555; fax 503.253.2234; www.sportscarmarket.com.
178
SEPTEMBER 2020 Sports Car Market
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION
Sports Car Market (ISSN #1527859X) is published monthly by Automotive Investor Media Group, 401 NE 19th Ave, Suite 100, Portland, OR 97232. Periodicals postage paid
RM SOTHEBY’S PEDAL
POWER ONLINE-ONLY
LOT 107—JUNIOR FORTY
AUSTIN PEDAL CAR.
Estimate: $2,000–$3,000.
SOLD AT: $9,900. The Austin
Motor Co. Limited employed
Welsh miners suffering from
black lung disease. They
produced the J40 pedal cars
between 1950 and 1971, using
scrap material from the Austin
A40 Devon and Dorset production.
The pedal cars were a
quality product with functioning
lights and horn — and an
opening trunk and hood. This
one sold for a very aggressive
number, as they normally realize
$4,000–$5,000.
EBAY #164209752937—
1910 O’NEILS VELVET
AUTOMOBILE OIL.
Number of bids: 28. SOLD
AT: $1,786. Date: 5/26/2020.
This oil was refined by the
O’Neil Oil and Paint Company,
which used the slogan “The Oil
That Gives the Service.” The
can featured a period Packard
touring car and had a few nicks
and bruises, but considering it
is 110 years old, it was a real
treasure. All things considered,
a fair price. ♦
POSTMASTER
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