Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Milhous Collection hitting the auction block in Boca]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/milhous-collection-hitting-the-auction-block-in-boca/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/milhous-collection-hitting-the-auction-block-in-boca/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/milhous-collection-hitting-the-auction-block-in-boca/#commentsFiled under: ,

1912 Oldsmobile Limited Five-Passenger Touring

The world is replete with private auto collections that rival the best any museum has to offer. But no one person could have compiled the kind of spectacle that is the Milhous Collection - the embodiment of the life's work and collective wealth of brothers Bob and Paul Milhous of Boca Raton, Florida.

The Milhous brothers shared a love for everything mechanical, ranging from automobiles and petroliana to player pianos, clocks and even a full-size carousel, and collected them all. Having outgrown four previous locations, the Milhous brothers moved their collect to a 39,500 square-foot facility in Boca in the mid-'90s. And there it has remained, closed to the public, ever since. But now its contents are going under the hammer later this month by RM Auctions in association with Sotheby's.

Aside from the considerable musical and visual elements of the collection is more than a handful of noteworthy automobiles. A rare 1912 Oldsmobile Limited Five-Passenger Touring cabriolet (pictured above) is expected to go for around $1.5 million, joined by a 1933 Chrysler Custom Imperial Tourist by LeBaron, a 1939 Lagonda V1-2 Rapide Sports Roadster once owned by actor Robert Mongomery, a 1949 Rounds Rocket that was the first mid-engine/rear-drive Indy speedster and a 1934 Packard Super Eight Convertible Victoria by Dietrich that won Best in Show at Pebble Beach - just a few of the most noteworthy examples on the docket from the collection.

All-in-all, more than 30 classic automobiles, along with the rest of the collection, are to be auctioned on February 24 and 25 in conjunction with Boca Raton Concours d'Elegance. Take a stroll past the jump to delve into the full press releases, browse through the high-resolution image gallery, and follow the link for a virtual tour of the collection.

Continue reading Milhous Collection hitting the auction block in Boca

Milhous Collection hitting the auction block in Boca originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto auctionbocaboca ratonboca raton concours delegancemilhousmilhous brothersmilhous collectionrmrm auctionssothebysthe milhous collectionMon, 13 Feb 2012 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20170022/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/13/milhous-collection-hitting-the-auction-block-in-boca/20170022/article-detail.xml 20170022 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/web-rm-milhaus-olds_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/web-rm-milhaus-olds.jpg <![CDATA[Lee Iacocca's Ferrari F40 up for auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/lee-iacoccas-own-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/lee-iacoccas-own-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/lee-iacoccas-own-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lee Iacocca's 1991 Ferrari F40

Supercars play a volatile and ever-changing game of one-upmanship. With each new generation outperforming the last, it takes something truly special to endure the test of time. The Ferrari F40 is such an icon.

Built to celebrate Ferrari's fortieth anniversary, the F40 was the most extreme Ferrari ever produced to date, and the last to be ushered into production under the watchful eye of its founder Enzo Ferrari. Popular demand saw its original intended production run of 400 expand to over 1,300, but just 213 were made for the American market. This one is noteworthy.

This particular F40, you see, was built for Lee Iacocca during his tenure as chief executive at Chrysler. When the CEO of a major automaker orders a vehicle from another automaker, it says a lot. Even more so in this instance, because when this Ferrari was built, Iacocca's Chrysler also owned Lamborghini - Ferrari's longtime rival.

With fewer than 300 miles on the odometer and three owners in its twenty-one year history, this F40 is set to cross the auction block in one week at RM Auctions' event in Arizona. Follow the jump for the full listing, and check out the extensive image gallery for a closer look.

Continue reading Lee Iacocca's Ferrari F40 up for auction

Lee Iacocca's Ferrari F40 up for auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arizonaauctionf40ferrari f40iacoccalee iacoccarmrm auctionsscottsdaleSun, 15 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147679/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/15/lee-iacoccas-own-ferrari-f40-up-for-auction/20147679/article-detail.xml 20147679 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-iacocca-f40_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-iacocca-f40.jpg <![CDATA[2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept up for grabs at RM Auctions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept

We can't tell you how many times we've each been asked about concept cars, "Why can't I buy one of those?" Well you can. Not often, mind you, and not cheaply. But every once in a while, one of those glitzy concepts you see on a show stand comes up for sale. And now, it's time to grab your checkbooks.

The show car (or truck, to be precise) you see here was the centerpiece of the Ford display at the 2001 Chicago Auto Show. Dubbed the F-150 Lightning Rod, it takes the formula employed by the SVT Lightning to a more stylized extent, with a chopped roofline and raked windshield, flush-fitted neon head- and tail-lights, and a minimalist interior. The whole package is finished in metallic red with a tribal tattoo motif. A 5.4-liter SOHC V8 sat under the hood, mated to a four-speed automatic. The 21-inch aluminum wheels wear tires whose tread is cut to match the tattoo pattern.

This unique concept truck is expected to fetch around $50,000 when it crosses the block at the RM Auctions event in Arizona next week, but while it's in proper running condition, it isn't certified to drive on public streets. Check it out the listing after the jump and browse the attached photo gallery.

Continue reading 2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept up for grabs at RM Auctions

2001 Ford F-150 Lightning Rod Concept up for grabs at RM Auctions originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2001 chicago auto show2001 ford f-150 lightning rod conceptarizonachicagochicago auto showfordford f-150ford f-150 lightningford f-150 lightning rodford f-150 lightning rod conceptrmrm auctionsscottsdaleSun, 15 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/15/2001-ford-f-150-lightning-rod-concept-up-for-grabs-at-rm-auction/20147728/article-detail.xml 20147728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-f150-lightning-rod_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-f150-lightning-rod.jpg <![CDATA[1938 Cadillac V16 convertible parades from White House to auction house]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/1938-cadillac-v16-convertible-parades-from-white-house-to-auctio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/1938-cadillac-v16-convertible-parades-from-white-house-to-auctio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/15/1938-cadillac-v16-convertible-parades-from-white-house-to-auctio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

1938 Cadillac V-16 President Convertible Parade Limousine

The unfortunate reality of a post-JFK, post-9/11 America means that our president needs to be hidden away from public view, and the details of his high-security transportation are just as hidden. But there was a time when the leader of the free world was paraded around for all to see, and for three presidents of these United States, this was the car in which they met their constituents.

Nicknamed the Queen Mary, this 1938 Cadillac V-16 President Convertible Parade Limousine was one of only two specially made for the White House (the other dubbed Queen Elizabeth), and was used by FDR, Truman and Eisenhower during their presidencies. Delivered on special order shortly after the introduction of Cadillac's second-generation sixteen-cylinder engine (which was smaller and lighter than its predecessor but delivered the same output), the Presidential Limousine's 165-inch wheelbase made it eleven inches longer than the already gargantuan production model.

After the end of WWII, as part of its routine maintenance, Cadillac replaced the sixteen-cylinder engines with V8s that were both more economical and easier to maintain. The cars were last used by President Eisenhower during his re-election campaign, after which longtime Cadillac dealer Jack Tallman, who witnessed the pair being rebuilt several times while visiting the factory, was offered the chance to purchase both cars. Tallman selected the Queen Mary for his collection, where it stayed for four decades. In 1999, the car was sold to one Al Wiseman, who showed it at Amelia Island in 2002 where it was awarded as the best original, unrestored vehicle.

It is now being offered for auction by the estate of John O'Quinn, its last owner, at the upcoming RM Auctions event in Arizona next week, where it is expected to fetch between $300,000 and $400,000. Have a closer look in the high-res image gallery and the detailed listing after the jump.

Continue reading 1938 Cadillac V16 convertible parades from White House to auction house

1938 Cadillac V16 convertible parades from White House to auction house originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1938 cadillac v-161938 cadillac v-16 presidential convertible parade limousine1938 cadillac v16arizonacadillaceisenhowerfdrparade carpotuspresidentpresidentialrmrm auctionsrooseveltscottsdaletrumanwhite houseSun, 15 Jan 2012 11:09:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147642/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/15/1938-cadillac-v16-convertible-parades-from-white-house-to-auctio/20147642/article-detail.xml 20147642 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-cadillac-v16-presidential_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-cadillac-v16-presidential.jpg <![CDATA[Super-rare Jaguar XJ220S heading to Arizona auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/super-rare-jaguar-xj220s-heading-to-arizona-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/super-rare-jaguar-xj220s-heading-to-arizona-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/super-rare-jaguar-xj220s-heading-to-arizona-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jaguar XJ220S

With only 350 cars built, the Jaguar XJ220 is a collector's item, but some examples are rarer than others.

Having relied heavily on Tom Walkinshaw Racing for the development of the XJ220 in the first place, Jaguar turned to the outfit when it came time to assess the possibility of a competition version. Three XJ220C race cars were born as a result, but in order to homologate them for competition, Jaguar and TWR built six roadgoing examples dubbed XJ220S. One of them is now going up for auction.

To create the XJ220S, TWR removed all the aluminum bodywork (except the doors) and replaced it with carbon fiber, adding a front splitter, rear wing and wider side sills in the process. That helped drive weight down to just over 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs), while the twin-turbo V6 was retuned to deliver 680 horsepower.

This particular car's owner recently had TWR install a titanium exhaust and recalibrate the engine output to nice round 700 hp. He also had it repainted the same shade of grey as the Lamborghini Reventon, fitted more modern headlights, and refurbished the magnesium wheels. As a result, RM Auctions expects it to fetch between $225,000 and $300,000 when it crosses the block in Arizona next month. Full details in the auction listing after the jump.

Continue reading Super-rare Jaguar XJ220S heading to Arizona auction

Super-rare Jaguar XJ220S heading to Arizona auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arizonajaguarjaguar xj220jaguar xj220srmrm auctionsscottsdaletom walkinshawtom walkinshaw racingtwrxj220xj220sSat, 14 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146859/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/14/super-rare-jaguar-xj220s-heading-to-arizona-auction/20146859/article-detail.xml 20146859 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-xj220s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web01-xj220s.jpg <![CDATA['38 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Cabriolet hitting the auction block in Monterey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/38-bugatti-type-57-stelvio-cabriolet-hitting-auction-block-in-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/38-bugatti-type-57-stelvio-cabriolet-hitting-auction-block-in-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/38-bugatti-type-57-stelvio-cabriolet-hitting-auction-block-in-m/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1938 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Cabriolet

In the 1930s, the Bugatti Type 57 was, apart from its grand prix racers, the only vehicle offered by Molsheim. It gave rise to several body types, the most famous of which was the iconic Atlantic, but those represented only a handful of the 710 Type 57s that were built over its seven years of production.

Relying primarily on third-party coachbuilders, most of Type 57s were bodied as coupes, a handful as sedans, but a few were fitted with open-top coachwork. RM Auctions is offering one such Grand Raid Roadster at Pebble Beach this year, and has now released details of a second convertible 57 set to join it on the auction block.

This Stelvio Cabriolet with coachwork by Gangloff of Colmar was believed to have been commissioned by the Pernod family (of aperitif distillation fame), and has a fully documented history from its 74 years of ownership since. Well cared for and properly maintained, this Stelvio has its original 3.2-liter inline-eight and four-speed gearbox and is expected to fetch between $700,000 and $800,000. Follow the jump for the full details.

Continue reading '38 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Cabriolet hitting the auction block in Monterey

'38 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Cabriolet hitting the auction block in Monterey originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1938 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Cabrioletbugattibugatti stelviobugatti type 57montereypebble beachrmrm auctionsSun, 24 Jul 2011 10:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19993217/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/24/38-bugatti-type-57-stelvio-cabriolet-hitting-auction-block-in-m/19993217/article-detail.xml 19993217 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bugatti57stelvio_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bugatti57stelvio.jpg <![CDATA[Stunning 1935 Bugatti Type 57 Grand Raid Roadster headed for Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/stunning-1935-bugatti-type-57-grand-raid-roadster-headed-for-peb/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/stunning-1935-bugatti-type-57-grand-raid-roadster-headed-for-peb/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/stunning-1935-bugatti-type-57-grand-raid-roadster-headed-for-peb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1935 Bugatti Type 57 Grand Raid Roadster by Carrosserie Worblaufen
1935 Bugatti Type 57 Grand Raid Roadster by Carrosserie Worblaufen - Click above for high-res image gallery

Few classics possess the same level of mystique as the Bugatti Type 57. But while it may be the Atlantic that draws all the attention, every 57 is a special specimen unto itself. This one especially.

One of only ten Grand Raid Roadsters to be built, this was one of just two that featured custom coachwork - from its swoopy art deco panels and covered wheels to its rumble seat - by Switzerland's Carrosserie Worblaufen. The car was completed just in time for the 1935 Concours d'Elegance at Montreux where it won first prize.

Seven decades later, after a comprehensive restoration, it won second prize at the 2005 Pebble Beach concours, and now it's going back to Monterey where RM Auctions has it up for grabs in August with pre-sale estimates placing its value at over $1 million. Take a closer look at it in our high-resolution gallery.

Stunning 1935 Bugatti Type 57 Grand Raid Roadster headed for Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti type 57carrosserie worblaufenmontereypebble beachrmrm auctionstype 57Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19968255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/16/stunning-1935-bugatti-type-57-grand-raid-roadster-headed-for-peb/19968255/article-detail.xml 19968255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web01bugatti-t57-roadster1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web01bugatti-t57-roadster1.jpg <![CDATA[Rare classics sell for millions at Villa d'Este auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/rare-classics-sell-for-millions-at-villa-deste-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/rare-classics-sell-for-millions-at-villa-deste-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/24/rare-classics-sell-for-millions-at-villa-deste-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Teardrop Coupe - chassis #90112
1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS - Click above for high-res image gallery

This past weekend, the Concorso d'Eleganza returned to Villa d'Este, revealing such splendid one-offs as the Ferrari Superamerica 45, Aston Martin V12 Zagato and BMW 328 Tribute. But at the same time RM Auctions was holding its first event at Cernobbio, selling a cadre of historically important automobiles we've been following for months, many of which went for multi-million-dollar figures.

1965 Ford GT40 Roadster PrototypeAmong the top sellers were the art-deco 1938 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS (pictured above) which sold for nearly $4.5 million, the rare four-cylinder Ferrari 500 Testa Rossa (sold for just under $4 million), the 1965 Ford GT40 roadster prototype (pictured at right) and the 1947 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante (each of which went for just under $3 million apiece). The top of the list also included a trio of Ferrari classics from the 50s: a 1955 375 MM topped the list at $4.8M, a '59 250 California at $3.6M and a '53 250 MM at $3M.

Two of the Bertone prototypes that sold broke the million-dollar mark as well - the 1967 Lamborghini Marzal at $2.1 million and the 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero at $1 million - while the 60s-era Zagato-bodied Alfa Romeos sold for around $900k and $370k each. All told, some $32 million worth of classics exchanged hands at the event, the full breakdown of which you can find at this link along with more galleries after the jump.

Continue reading Rare classics sell for millions at Villa d'Este auction

Rare classics sell for millions at Villa d'Este auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 May 2011 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concorso deleganza villa destermrm auctionsvilla desteTue, 24 May 2011 08:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19947267/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/24/rare-classics-sell-for-millions-at-villa-deste-auction/19947267/article-detail.xml 19947267 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-talbot-villadeste_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-talbot-villadeste.jpg <![CDATA[1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom 10EX prototype up for auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/1926-rolls-royce-phantom-10ex-prototype-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/1926-rolls-royce-phantom-10ex-prototype-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/1926-rolls-royce-phantom-10ex-prototype-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom 10EX
1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom 10EX - Click above for high-res image gallery

Times change and so do trends. These days, everyone's clamoring for more environmentally-friendly and fuel-efficient cars that even Rolls-Royce is tinkering with electric propulsion. The program is being carried out on the 102EX electric Phantom prototype. But go back nearly a century and speed was the cause célèbre du jour. And then just as now, Rolls-Royce was keen to prove its mettle. This was the car with which it did so.

As Rolls-Royce presented the first-generation Phantom to the world, it was eager to show what it could do, so the company's managing director Claude Johnson had the crew at Crewe put this prototype together. Named in his honor, the "CJ Sports Car" featured a more aerodynamic "torpedo" coachwork by Barker. Although many experimental Phantoms followed (straight through to the aforementioned 102EX), this was the only one that the company held on to after it was done testing, and was even rumored to have been loaned out to Laurence of Arabia at one time.

10EX is expected to fetch around £400,000-£800,000 ($650k-$1.3m) when it goes up for auction on June 23 at RM's inaugural Salon Privé auction at West London's picturesque Syon Park estate. Joining it on the docket will be numerous other Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, Aston Martin classics (among others) representing the finest of historic British motoring. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom 10EX prototype up for auction

1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom 10EX prototype up for auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 May 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1926 rolls-royce phantom 10exlondonphantomrmrm auctionsrolls-roycerolls-royce phantomrolls-royce phantom i continentalsalon privésalon priveWed, 18 May 2011 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19942285/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/18/1926-rolls-royce-phantom-10ex-prototype-up-for-auction/19942285/article-detail.xml 19942285 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web05-rolls-1ex_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web05-rolls-1ex.jpg <![CDATA[Rare four-cylinder '57 Ferrari Testa Rossa expected to top $4 million at auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/rare-four-cylinder-57-ferrari-testa-rossa-expected-to-top-4-mi/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/rare-four-cylinder-57-ferrari-testa-rossa-expected-to-top-4-mi/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/rare-four-cylinder-57-ferrari-testa-rossa-expected-to-top-4-mi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

1957 Ferrari 500 TRC Spider
1957 Ferrari 500 TRC Spider - Click above for high-res image gallery

Wait a second, a Ferrari 500 with a four-cylinder engine? Come on, Autoblog - check your facts. Don't we mean a Fiat 500? Maybe that special-edition Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari? Nope. What we have here is a genuine four-cylinder Ferrari. And a highly coveted one at that.

The Ferrari 500 TRC (that's Testa Rossa Type-C) Spider was one of the last models Maranello ever built with an inline-four, the engine originally designed by Aurelio Lampredi for Formula Two, but later adapted for sports racing prototypes after the engineer's departure. Derived from the Monza, this was the first Ferrari to bear the Testa Rossa name for its red valve headers. And though the styling is similar, it's even rarer than the 250 Testa Rossa that followed: only 19 of these cars were built, all during just one year or production, making this rarer than the more powerful 12-cylinder 250 TR and 250 GTO that rake in the big bucks at auction.

This particular example - chassis number 0670 MDTR - was the sixth made, ordered by a customer in Sicily who entered it in numerous races around the world in its heyday. While other 500 TRC Spiders went on to claim class victories at Le Mans and the Targa Florio, this one took its class win at the Monte Pellegrino Hillclimb in Palermo - the same locale where we drove the Ferrari California on its launch several decades later.

The car stands as the latest consignment to RM Auctions' docket for the upcoming Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, where it is expected to fetch €2,600,000 to €3,300,000 (equivalent to $3.6M to $4.6M at current rates). There it will stand alongside such notables recently covered on these pages as the collection of Bertone concept cars, the Talbot and Bugatti art-deco classics and the pair historic Zagato-bodied Kamm-tailed Alfa Romeos in what's shaping up to be an historic event in its own right. Follow the jump for more details on the 500 TRC and take a closer look in the high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Rare four-cylinder '57 Ferrari Testa Rossa expected to top $4 million at auction

Rare four-cylinder '57 Ferrari Testa Rossa expected to top $4 million at auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1957 ferrari 500 trc spiderconcorso deleganza villa desteferrariferrari 500 testa rossaferrari 500 trc spiderferrari testa rossarmrm auctionstesta rossavilla desteTue, 17 May 2011 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19942282/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/rare-four-cylinder-57-ferrari-testa-rossa-expected-to-top-4-mi/19942282/article-detail.xml 19942282 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web01-57ferrari500trc_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web01-57ferrari500trc.jpg <![CDATA[RM Auctions America acquires Bator vintage motorcycle company]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/12/rm-auctions-america-acquires-bator-vintage-motorcycle-company/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/12/rm-auctions-america-acquires-bator-vintage-motorcycle-company/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/12/rm-auctions-america-acquires-bator-vintage-motorcycle-company/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Glenn Bator of RM Auctions America

RM Auctions has come a long way in relatively few years. The Canadian automotive auction house has only been around a couple of decades - a drop in the bucket compared to rivals like Bonhams, Gooding & Co or even Barrett-Jackson - but has quickly become one of the biggest names in the business, gaining access to places like Maranello and Villa d'Este where no other auction house has gone before.

Only a few months ago, RM Auctions announced the acquisition of Auctions America, and now is adding a motorcycle division to its expanding portfolio with the takeover of Bator Vintage Motorcycle Auctions. The integration gives Auctions American by RM a solid foothold in collector motorcycles. It also brings with it the talents of company founder Glenn Bator (pictured above), a noted vintage motorcycle expert and former curator of the Otis Chandler museum, the collection of the publishing magnate that was liquidated to the record tune of $36 million after its namesake founder's passing.

Bator and RM will be holding their first post-merger motorcycle auction during the Auburn Cord Duesenberg festival in Auburn, Indiana, this September. Details of the announcement in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Auctions American by RM]

Continue reading RM Auctions America acquires Bator vintage motorcycle company

RM Auctions America acquires Bator vintage motorcycle company originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auburnauctions americaauctions america by rmbatorbator vintage motorcycle auctionsglenn batormotorcyclesrmrm auctionsvintage motorcyclesTue, 12 Apr 2011 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19905747/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/12/rm-auctions-america-acquires-bator-vintage-motorcycle-company/19905747/article-detail.xml 19905747 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/bator_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/bator.jpg <![CDATA[Art Deco French dream machines to cross the auction block at Villa d'Este]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/art-deco-french-dream-machines-to-cross-the-auction-block-at-vil/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/art-deco-french-dream-machines-to-cross-the-auction-block-at-vil/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/art-deco-french-dream-machines-to-cross-the-auction-block-at-vil/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Teardrop Coupe - chassis #90112
1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Teardrop Coupe #90112 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic may be the most iconic of the Art Deco-era French teardrop coupes, but it isn't the only one. Which is a good thing, because there's only two or three of them in existence (and we had a photo session with one of them). The Talbot-Lago may not be as well known today - probably because the company's not around anymore - but it's arguably just as beautiful, and this one's crossing the auction block.

This particular example - a 1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Teardrop Coupe - is one of only 11 examples that featured the second-series "New York" bodywork by coachbuilders Figoni et Falaschi that made the Talbot-Lago the poster child that it is. (This writer had a purple one up on his wall as a child.) Underneath the unspeakably gorgeous sheetmetal (one of only a handful with a factory-installed sunroof) sits a shortened race-bred chassis and a 140-horsepower 4.0-liter inline-six with pre-Mopar hemispherical combustion chambers and triple carbs, along with an independent front suspension. Chassis number 90112 was the subject of a full restoration completed in-house by RM Auctions, and was decorated at both Pebble Beach in 2009 and at Meadowbrook in 2010. And we even like the color...

1937 Bugatti 57SC Atalante Coupe - chassis #57551As if that's not enough, there's a 1937 Bugatti 57SC Atalante Coupe (the slightly more common - but still rare by any other standard - production counterpart to the Atlantic) also on the docket. One of just 40 examples produced, chassis 57551 was named Best of Show at Pebble Beach in 1976. The pair join the Bertone Museum collection and the Ford GT40 Roadster on which we already reported at RM Auctions' inaugural sale on the shores of Lake Como at the prestigious Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. Read more about the Talbot and the Bugatti in the press releases after the jump, and do be sure to check out the images in the high-res gallery below for a closer look.


Gallery: 1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Teardrop Coupe - chassis #90112


[Source: RM Auctions | Images: shooterz.biz, Troy Wood/RM]

Continue reading Art Deco French dream machines to cross the auction block at Villa d'Este

Art Deco French dream machines to cross the auction block at Villa d'Este originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1937 Bugatti 57SC Atalante Coupe1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Teardrop Coupeatalantebugattibugatti 57sc atalantebugatti type 57concorso deleganza villa destermrm auctionstalbottalbot lagotalbot-lagovilla desteThu, 07 Apr 2011 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19903485/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/07/art-deco-french-dream-machines-to-cross-the-auction-block-at-vil/19903485/article-detail.xml 19903485 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-talbot-villadeste_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-talbot-villadeste.jpg <![CDATA[1956 Cadillac Eldorado Broughham Motorama show car cruises to RM Amelia Island]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/29/1956-cadillac-eldorado-broughham-motorama-show-car-cruises-to-rm/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/29/1956-cadillac-eldorado-broughham-motorama-show-car-cruises-to-rm/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/29/1956-cadillac-eldorado-broughham-motorama-show-car-cruises-to-rm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1956 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car concept
1956 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

These days, automakers routinely unveil concept cars and new models at major auto shows. Back in its heyday, General Motors played by a different set of rules. It organized its own car shows under the Motorama banner.

Running throughout the 1950s, Motoramas were GM's opportunity to showcase its products to the public and whet consumers' appetites. Few Motorama cars were as showy as the Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car concept. Unveiled at the Waldorf-Astoria in Manhattan for the 1956 "Highway of Tomorrow" Motorama, the Brougham Town Car was a concept for a chauffeur-driven version of the production Cadillac Brougham that hit the market the following year.

The Town Car featured a half roof that left the driver, in classical style, exposed to the elements, and created a split cabin. Up front, the chauffeur sat in the open air surrounded by black leather and chrome. In back, the pampered occupants were coddled in beige leather, deep-pile Wilton carpeting and gold trim covering everything from the tissue dispenser and decanter to the bulkhead-mounted phone used to speak to the driver.

After the New York Motorama, the Eldorado Brougham Town Car went on the road to Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Boston, but was then retired to GM's Warhoops salvage yard. The staff there, according to the story, didn't have the heart to rip the Brougham apart, so it stayed under a tarp for thirty years. It then passed through the hands of several prominent collectors before RM gave it a thorough restoration, including the installation of a detailed 365 cu. in. OHV V8 engine with four-speed Hydramatic transmission, suitable for driving the car off the trailer and over the concours judging stand.

Consigned to RM Auctions, the car is set to cross the auction block on March 12 at Amelia Island, where it's expected to fetch between $500,000 and $750,000. Follow the link to the auction site for full details of the lot and event, and check out the high-res images in the gallery below.


Gallery: 1956 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car concept


[Source: RM Auctions]

1956 Cadillac Eldorado Broughham Motorama show car cruises to RM Amelia Island originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 29 Jan 2011 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1956 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car1956 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Town Car conceptamelia islandBroughamCadillacCadillac EldoradoCadillac Eldorado BroughamEldoradomotoramarmrm auctionsSat, 29 Jan 2011 17:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19817783/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/29/1956-cadillac-eldorado-broughham-motorama-show-car-cruises-to-rm/19817783/article-detail.xml 19817783 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/web630-am11r12701_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/web630-am11r12701.jpg <![CDATA[Celebrity classics on the docket at RM Auctions in Arizona]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/31/celebrity-classics-on-the-docket-at-rm-auctions-in-arizona/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/31/celebrity-classics-on-the-docket-at-rm-auctions-in-arizona/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/31/celebrity-classics-on-the-docket-at-rm-auctions-in-arizona/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Rita Hayworth's '41 Lincoln Continental Coupe - Click above for high-res image

This year's RM Auctions event in Phoenix will feature several classics with serious celebrity provenance. First and foremost is a rare 1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spyder that was alternately owned by Reggie Jackson and Evel Knievel. By itself, the Daytona Spyder is expected to fetch around a million bucks, but that's only the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

Also on the roster is a 1929 Duesenberg Model J Dual Cowl Phaeton used by Elvis Presley in the movie Spinout (also estimated at a million +/-), a 1941 Lincoln Continental Coupe (pictured above) given by Orson Welles to Rita Hayworth (~$175k) and a 1949 Cadillac Series 75 Woodie Limousine with custom bodywork by Schwartz commissioned by MGM studios (~$300k). With nearly three months to go before the auction, you can bet there'll be plenty more interesting vehicles on their way to Arizona for the event. Hit the jump to read about what's been consigned so far. UPDATE: Additional high-resolution images added to the gallery below.


Gallery: RM Auctions Automobiles of Arizona 2010


[Source: RM Auctions | Images: Darin Schnabel, Shooterz.biz/RM Auctions]

Continue reading Celebrity classics on the docket at RM Auctions in Arizona

Celebrity classics on the docket at RM Auctions in Arizona originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Oct 2010 13:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1929 Duesenberg Model J Dual Cowl Phaeton1941 Lincoln Continental Coupe1949 Cadillac Series 75 Woodie Limousine by Schwartz1973 Ferrari 365 GTB4 Daytona Spyderarizonaautomobiles of arizonaelviselvis presleyevel knievelmgm studiosphoenixreggie jacksonrita hayworthrmrm auctionsspinoutSun, 31 Oct 2010 13:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19690137/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/31/celebrity-classics-on-the-docket-at-rm-auctions-in-arizona/19690137/article-detail.xml 19690137 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/1941lincolncontinentalcoupeweb630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/1941lincolncontinentalcoupeweb630.jpg <![CDATA[Mercury Messenger Concept up on the block at RM Auctions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/mercury-messenger-concept-up-on-the-block-at-rm-auctions/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/mercury-messenger-concept-up-on-the-block-at-rm-auctions/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/mercury-messenger-concept-up-on-the-block-at-rm-auctions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2003 Mercury Messenger Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

"Mercury is a brand sending a message that modern design will lead its rejuvenation. Mercury is returning to its roots as a design leader introducing the Messenger concept, a distinctive and energetic high-performance two-seat sports coupe." So said Ford's former interplanetary brand when it introduced the Mercury Messenger at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Needless to say, that hoped-for rejuvenation never actually panned out.

As much as we'd like to say that Ford spent a few hundred million giving Mercury a much-needed halo car instead of shuttering the brand entirely, it didn't happen and the reality is that the eight generation of the Mercury Cougar went on to be the last non-Ford-based automobile ever to roll off the showroom floor. Sad, no?

Perhaps all is not lost, however. According to Automotive Traveler, the 2003 Mercury Messenger Concept is about to go under the gavel at the RM Auction during the festivities at Pebble Beach on August 13 and 14. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Because the car was nothing more than a styling exercise, there's no drivetrain in the Messenger... but we'd like to think that some willing participant will find a way to make it all go down the road with a brand spankin' new 5.0-liter V8 underhood.


Gallery: 2003 Mercury Messenger Concept


[Source: Automotive Traveler via Hooniverse]

Mercury Messenger Concept up on the block at RM Auctions originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2003 mercury messenger2003 mercury messenger concept2003MercuryMessenger2003MercuryMessengerConceptJuvenile Diabetes Research FoundationJuvenileDiabetesResearchFoundationmercurymercury messengermercury messenger conceptMercuryMessengerMercuryMessengerConceptmessengerpebble beachpebble beach 2010PebbleBeachPebbleBeach2010RMrm auctionrm auctionsRmAuctionRmAuctionsTue, 03 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19578090/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/03/mercury-messenger-concept-up-on-the-block-at-rm-auctions/19578090/article-detail.xml 19578090 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/mercurymessenger_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/mercurymessenger.jpg <![CDATA[Queen Elizabeth II's 1984 Daimler Double Six LWB up for auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/20/queen-elizabeth-iis-1984-daimler-double-six-lwb-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/20/queen-elizabeth-iis-1984-daimler-double-six-lwb-up-for-auction/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/20/queen-elizabeth-iis-1984-daimler-double-six-lwb-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Queen Elizabeth II's 1984 Daimler Double Six Long-Wheelbase Saloon - Click above for high-res image gallery

The list of accolades and honorifics attributed to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II goes on for miles. Not only is she the Queen of England, Great Britain and the United Kingdom - the longest-serving monarch in their respective histories, at that - but she's also the reigning queen of an additional 15 sovereign nations and the head of state for 54 members of the commonwealth. She's head of the Church of England, titular commander-in-chief of the British Armed Forces, Lord High Admiral of the Royal Navy and, for some strange reason, Admiral of Nebraska. (Seriously. Look it up.) Her Majesty is also a keen driver, having driven ambulances during the Second World War, known to change tires on her own (how many monarchs can say that?) and is still seen driving herself around on occasion. And for several years, this was her car.

This Daimler Double Six Long-Wheelbase Saloon (the upscale version of the Jaguar XJ12) was built by Jaguar for Her Majesty's use in 1984. Before its delivery to Buckingham Palace, it underwent over 2,000 miles of testing to iron out any kinks, after which it became the Queen's personal vehicle, transporting her an enumerable dignitaries - princes, princesses and prime ministers - to various events and in between palaces and estates across the kingdom. Elizabeth II was known to drive it herself much of the time, blissfully immune as she is to any traffic offenses.

The specially built luxury saloon was equipped with a long list of special features, from special communications systems and flashing lights to a rear bench requested by the Queen to accommodate her pet dogs. During its service and ever since, it's been maintained exclusively by Jaguar and the royally-appointed garage, Guy Salmons in Royal Ascot Berkshire, undergoing regular VIP maintenance to keep it in as-new condition. Following its retirement from active service, it was returned to the Jaguar Heritage Museum Browns Lane where it has remained since.

Jaguar is now putting it up for auction at the hands of RM Auctions during Pebble Beach weekend in Monterey, California. It's the first time a royal limousine has been offered for sale publicly in the United States, and, as Jaguar says it will never offer another again, very well may be the last. At least, until Bentley sells off any of those bio-fueled limos. Follow the jump for full details in the press release, and check out the images in the gallery below for a closer look.


Gallery: Queen Elizabeth II's 1984 Daimler Double Six Long-Wheelbase Saloon


[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading Queen Elizabeth II's 1984 Daimler Double Six LWB up for auction

Queen Elizabeth II's 1984 Daimler Double Six LWB up for auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1984 Daimler Double Six long-wheelbase saloon1984 Daimler Double Six LWB1984DaimlerDoubleSixLong-wheelbaseSaloon1984DaimlerDoubleSixLwbdaimlerelizabeth IIElizabethIijaguarmontereypebble beachPebbleBeachqueen elizabethqueen elizabeth IIQueenElizabethQueenElizabethIirmrm auctionsRmAuctionsroyalTue, 20 Jul 2010 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19559402/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/20/queen-elizabeth-iis-1984-daimler-double-six-lwb-up-for-auction/19559402/article-detail.xml 19559402 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/web630-queensdaimler_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/web630-queensdaimler.jpg <![CDATA[James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5 expected to top $5 Million at auction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/02/james-bonds-1964-aston-martin-db5-expected-to-top-5-million-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/02/james-bonds-1964-aston-martin-db5-expected-to-top-5-million-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/02/james-bonds-1964-aston-martin-db5-expected-to-top-5-million-at/#commentsFiled under: , ,


James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5 - Click above for high-res image mega gallery

The mantle of "world's most famous car" is a heavy one indeed. But if any single automobile ever created deserved the honorific, surely it's the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 used on-screen in the production of the iconic 007 films Goldfinger and Thunderball. And in case you were disappointed at having missed the opportunity to get your hands on one of the stunt cars, the real thing is now up for grabs in London, where RM and Sotheby's will be auctioning it off to the highest bidder.

The car in question was prepared by Aston Martin for use in the Bond films. After that it went back to the manufacturer, which then sold it to radio host and philanthropist Jerry Lee, who's been holding onto it for the past 40+ years. In pursuit of his charitable work, Lee is finally putting the car up for sale, with bids expecting to top $5 million when it goes under the hammer on October 27.

One of only two made and the only one still in existence, the custom DB5 comes packed with all the extras the Q-Branch installed for Bond's use, from the revolving license plates and tracking device to the oil slick dispenser and smoke screen. You can check out all the details in the press release after the jump, along with the 100+ high-resolution image gallery that very well might be the largest we've ever compiled. Oh, and do be careful, Bond.


Gallery: James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5


[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5 expected to top $5 Million at auction

James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5 expected to top $5 Million at auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0071964 aston martin db51964AstonMartinDb5astonaston martinaston martin db5AstonMartinAstonMartinDb5auctionbondgoldfingerjames bondJamesBondrmrm auctionsRmAuctionssothebysthunderballWed, 02 Jun 2010 14:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19498790/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/02/james-bonds-1964-aston-martin-db5-expected-to-top-5-million-at/19498790/article-detail.xml 19498790 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/web630-lf10r101026_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/web630-lf10r101026.jpg <![CDATA[She's a Real Duesy: 1930s Model J Duesenbergs fetch millions at RM Amelia Island]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/22/shes-a-real-duesy-1930s-model-j-duesenbergs-fetch-millions-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/22/shes-a-real-duesy-1930s-model-j-duesenbergs-fetch-millions-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/22/shes-a-real-duesy-1930s-model-j-duesenbergs-fetch-millions-at/#commentsFiled under: ,

Duesenberg Model J by Murphy: 1930 Sport Berline (above), 1932 convertible (below) - Click for high-res image galleries

Recession? What recession? You certainly wouldn't know it from looking at the latest crop of results from the auction floor, where millions of dollars continue to change hands between collectors for some of the finest pieces of rolling artwork ever to grace tarmac. Especially when the vehicles in question trace their roots back to the Great Depression itself.

At RM's recent Amelia Island event, a pair of early-30s Duesenbergs from the estate of one Mr. John O'Quinn brought in some big bucks. Both were Model Js with coachwork by Murphy and 265-horsepower 420-cubic-inch straight-eights with four valves per cylinder mated to three-speed transmissions.

The first, a 1930 saloon, eclipsed early estimates (which placed the hammer price between $1.2 and 1.5 million) by fetching an outstanding $1,705,000 at auction. The second, a 1932 convertible, fetched a still remarkable $800,000, closer to the bottom end of its pre-auction estimates which ranged from $800k to $1 million.

When, as RM points out, you consider that an average family sedan in that era cost about $500, the $20,000 sticker price on a new coachbuilt Duesenberg in its day equates to about a million today with inflation - think of it as the Bugatti of its time and you're right on track. In fact, along with the likes of Rolls-Royce and Hispano-Suiza, that's exactly who E.L. Cord had in mind when he acquired Duesenberg and added it to his empire that already included his namesake brand as well as Auburn and the Checker Cab, delivering the first customer Model Js just months before the stock market crashed. Follow the jump for more history on each of the models from the auctioneer.


Gallery: 1930 Duesenberg Model J Sport Berline by Murphy


Gallery: 1932 Duesenberg Model J Convertible Coupe by Murphy


[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading She's a Real Duesy: 1930s Model J Duesenbergs fetch millions at RM Amelia Island

She's a Real Duesy: 1930s Model J Duesenbergs fetch millions at RM Amelia Island originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ameliaamelia islandAmeliaIslandduesenbergduesenberg model jDuesenbergModelJmodel jModelJmurphyrmrm auctionsRmAuctionsMon, 22 Mar 2010 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19406041/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/22/shes-a-real-duesy-1930s-model-j-duesenbergs-fetch-millions-at/19406041/article-detail.xml 19406041 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/web630am10r25901_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/web630am10r25901.jpg <![CDATA[Three classic Ferraris break the million-dollar mark at Amelia Island]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/21/3-classic-ferraris-break-the-million-dollar-mark-at-amelia-islan/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/21/3-classic-ferraris-break-the-million-dollar-mark-at-amelia-islan/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/21/3-classic-ferraris-break-the-million-dollar-mark-at-amelia-islan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Berlinetta - Click above for high-res image gallery

While the iconic 250 series of 1960s-era Ferraris - including the GTO, California Spyder and Testa Rossa - continue to break records at auction, the models that followed are quickly catching up, as those who lusted after them in their wonder years are coming up with the cash to acquire them today. As with any great collector cars, the more perfect and more rare the specimen, the more it'll fetch at auction.

Case in point, three classic Ferraris hovering around the 40-year-old mark each sold for seven figures last week at the RM Auctions Amelia Island event in Florida. One example, a rare Daytona Spyder once owned by Edsel Ford II, brought in $1,017,500 - safely inside the $1-1.25 million estimate range. Another, an alloy-bodied 275 GTB/4 in stunning copper, which was purchased new by Luigi Chinetti and displayed at the 1967 New York Auto Show, went for $1,265,000 - a little short of its estimate. It was bested, however, by a meticulously-restored, concours-winning 275 that greatly exceeded its estimate with a $1,650,000 winning bid.

Along with the headline-catching Duesenbergs, these classic cavallinos helped RM achieve an 88% sale rate at Amelia Island, accounting for over $19 million in sales. Further details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spyder, ex-Edsel Ford II


Gallery: 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Alloy Berlinetta, ex-Luigi Chinetti


Gallery: 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Berlinetta


[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading Three classic Ferraris break the million-dollar mark at Amelia Island

Three classic Ferraris break the million-dollar mark at Amelia Island originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amelia islandAmeliaIslandauctionferrariferrari 275 gtb4ferrari 365 gtb4 daytona spyderferrari daytonaFerrari275Gtb4Ferrari365Gtb4DaytonaSpyderFerrariDaytonarmrm auctionsRmAuctionsSun, 21 Mar 2010 18:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19406042/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/21/3-classic-ferraris-break-the-million-dollar-mark-at-amelia-islan/19406042/article-detail.xml 19406042 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/web630275_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/web630275.jpg <![CDATA[Ultra-rare 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO up for sale by RM Auctions... will it set a record?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/04/ultra-rare-1963-ferrari-250-gto-up-for-sale-by-rm-auctions-wi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/04/ultra-rare-1963-ferrari-250-gto-up-for-sale-by-rm-auctions-wi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/04/ultra-rare-1963-ferrari-250-gto-up-for-sale-by-rm-auctions-wi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1963 Ferrari 250 GTO #4675GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Very rarely does a Ferrari 250 GTO come up for sale, and if it does, you'll probably never hear about it. Most sales are done behind closed doors, and the amount of said transactions are almost never disclosed to the public. That's just part of the mystique behind the world's most valuable car, and it's partially why the cars are so coveted. Just 36 examples were built between 1962 and 1963, each still in existence and easily carrying an eight-figure price tag. A few years ago, a 250 GTO supposedly changed hands for nearly $30 million, but no one can completely confirm the rumor.

We will, however, have more details about the next sale of a 250 GTO. RM Auctions have announced that they will be doing a "private treaty sale" of 1963 250 GTO chassis #4675GT. The car has been in possession of its current Japanese owner, Yoshiho Matsuda, since 1996 (a low point for the value of the car compared to the high prices of the late 1980s), and it has an extensive racing history.

We saw the car at the Pebble Beach Concour d'Elegance back in 2004, and while its Series II bodywork isn't quite as stunning as earlier models, it's still an extraordinarily beautiful car. If you've got millions of dollars just sitting around, now is the time to break out the checkbook and buy your very own rolling piece of V12-powered Italian artwork. Hit the jump for the official press release from RM or click the high-res gallery below for a beautiful studio shot plus several of our photographs from our 2004 encounter with the car.


Gallery: 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO chassis #4675GT


Non-Studio Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: RM Auctions]

Continue reading Ultra-rare 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO up for sale by RM Auctions... will it set a record?

Ultra-rare 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO up for sale by RM Auctions... will it set a record? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1963 Ferrari 250 GTO1963 Ferrari 250 GTO 4675GT1963Ferrari250Gto1963Ferrari250Gto4675gt250 GTO250GtoferrariFerrari 250ferrari 250 gtoFerrari 250 GTO 4675GTferrari GTOFerrari250Ferrari250GtoFerrari250Gto4675gtFerrariGtoRMRM AuctionsRM auctions Ferrari 250 GTORmAuctionsRmAuctionsFerrari250GtoYoshiho MatsudaYoshihoMatsudaThu, 04 Feb 2010 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19342414/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/04/ultra-rare-1963-ferrari-250-gto-up-for-sale-by-rm-auctions-wi/19342414/article-detail.xml 19342414 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/rmauctions250gtolead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/rmauctions250gtolead.jpg -1 2