Reggie Jackson Collection of Rare Muscle Slated for Bonhams

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA (August 4, 2009) – From the automotive collection of Hall of Fame baseball player Reggie Jackson comes a superlative trio of American muscle cars to be auctioned in mid-August during the world famous Monterey Car Week.

Offered by Bonhams, the internationally renowned auction house selected to represent Mr. Jackson’s collection, these incredible sports cars include a 1961 Chevy Corvette Big Brake Convertible, a 1965 Pontiac Tiger Gold GTO and a 1969 Chevy Camaro COPO ZL-1 Coupe.

1961 Chevrolet Corvette, est. $130,000-$150,000:
In 1961 the ultimate option for a new Corvette was the solid lifter, 315hp, fuel injection engine with the Big Brake package (RPO 687) containing stiff shocks, rear cooling air scoops, finned drums, wide steel wheels and quick steering adapter. Chevy didn’t mess around – this option could only be ordered with solid lifter engines and required the Positraction rear axle, which left no doubt about the buyer’s serious intent. And because clients had to be genuinely dedicated to performance to pay the price for this package, very few Corvettes were ordered with this combination. In fact, only 233 were made to be exact.

This rare, beautiful and down-to-business convertible underwent a professional restoration sometime ago and comes with both soft and hard tops and, for the performance minded collector, is a prize of the highest order.

1965 Pontiac GTO, est. $85,000-$95,000:
Considered the first of the great American muscle cars, this special edition Pontiac is one of only 100 built. Featuring the Tiger Gold paint with black vinyl roof and black interior, the “meat” consists of every GTO owner’s dream: 389ci, 360hp engine with Tri-Power carbs, 4-speed manual transmission with Hurst shifter, 3.55:1 Saf-T-Track limited slip differential, Hurst wheels, power steering, power brakes, sport steering wheel, and rally gauge and tach package.

Documented as a correct original Tiger Gold GTO by the Pontiac Historical Services, this exceedingly rare and sought-after car has been restored to extremely high standards and represents la crème de la crème of its class.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro, est. $675,000-$725,000:
Regarded as the most famous, rare, desirable and fast cars of the late ‘60s is the lightweight and extremely powerful COPO (Central Office Production Order) Chevy with the aluminum block ZL-1 engine, with the apex being the 1969 “9560” Camaro.

The ZL-1 motor was developed by GM for the Can-Am Challenge Series, a race for which manufacturers dedicated vast amounts of time and money. In fact, Chevy’s big block aluminum ZL-1 engine powered the dominant McLaren team to several victories.

This engine, of 427ci with 550hp, was put into the Camaro as special dealer order “COPO 9560” and equipped with, in this instance, special induction hood, transistorized ignition, dual exhausts, special suspension, 4.10 Positraction rear axle, turbo Hydra-Matic auto transmission, and power front disc brakes. Most importantly, this meticulously restored car is just one of five or six 9560 ZL-1 Camaros – of only 69 ever built – that have survived with its original engine. Such a fact is nearly unprecedented.

Representing the epitome of American muscle, this model is one of five Jackson would own, who states that this was the best of them all. Like all his cars, this Camaro has been lovingly maintained and is in excellent running and driving condition and represents an extremely unique opportunity for any enthusiast.

In addition to these and several other cars, Jackson’s 1973 Ferrari 368 GTB/4 Daytona Spyder (est. $800K-$1M) will also be offered for sale. Interestingly, this Italian convertible, an impressive muscle car in its own right, was formerly owned by none other than legendary motorcycle stuntman Evel Knievel.

Jackson’s varied collection of automobiles took over 40 years to amass and each car represents the very best in its category. While only a portion of his collection is being auctioned, the 5-time World Series title holder has said that it’s time to downsize and make life a bit simpler, which, for collectors, presents the opportunity of a lifetime.

This auction of remarkable automobiles takes place during the internationally renowned Monterey Car Week on Friday, August 14th at the Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley, California, with a preview being hosted the day prior. Please note that while the adjacent Quail Motorsports Gathering is sold out, entry to the Bonhams & Butterfields’ preview and auction does not require a ticket and all are welcome.

Visit www.bonhams.com for more.