The 1954 Oldsmobile F-88 concept that fetched $3 million dollars last year (to become the highest-hammered auction price paid at Barrett-Jackson) has had its reign ended by a 56-year-old bus. More specifically, the 1950 Futurliner, a brilliant General Motors concept vehicle used in the company's Parade of Progress. Billed as "a matchless symbol of the American auto industry at the height of its power and influence,' the Harley Earl penned streamlined transporter made a startling $4.1 million as 20,000 attendees stood and cheered. The frenzied bidding rejiggered the Arizona auction house's 35-year-old record books by more than $1 million dollars.
Another significant Harley Earl design, the Pontiac Bonneville Special (also featured as part of GM's Parade of Progress), rang in at a not-too-shabby $2.8 million. What's more, the magnificent pair were purchased by the same bidder for his private collection.
Among a slew of other notable lots, the market for rare and original musclecars continues to go 'supernova,' with a 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda convertible commanding $2 million, and a 1970 Chevy Chevelle LS6 convertible, "...considered the most significant Super Stock drag racer of that era," realized $1.15 million.
[Sources: Arizona Republic and Barrett-Jackson]
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