Tag: Auctions America

ON THE BLOCK: The $1,000,000 Fort Lauderdale Challenge

March 26, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

After a successful haul in our $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge, we’re heading south to the Auctions America sale in Fort Lauderdale. Our Petrolhead Godmother continues with her generosity; this time with $1,000,000 to play with this weekend. Using Auction America’s HIGH estimate, choose one or choose several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to bring home. We’ll get started:

Lot 108 — 1973 Peugeot 504 Cabriolet
Estimate $30,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $13,500 including premium

Featured in a Pick Of The Day last year, this is an presentable example of a car rarely seen on these shores. While it shows signs of wear and previous body repairs, this Peugeot 504 has had recent paint and is a complete example of a classic Pininfarina styling.

Lot 177 — 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante
Estimate $150,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $151,250 including premium

Not much information is in the catalog beyond the history of the V8 as a model, but this looks to be a rather tidy example, complete with books and tools. Although it is an automatic, it would still make for some very pleasant open touring.

Lot 226 — 1989 Porsche 911 Turbo (930)
Estimate $85,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $82,250 including premium

Although we aren’t given an odometer reading other than its condition belies the miles, this looks to be an excellent original example of a one-year-only 5-speed 930. Its high estimate would appear to be a bargain relative to other 1989s in like condition (not to mention the 1976 model that runs earlier in the day, estimated at $200,000).

Lot 317 — 1935 Ford Model A “Ratrod’ Pickup
Estimate $40,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $26,000

This is another one of those lots that we’d chase only when Petrolhead Godmother is footing the bill, but that said, it is dandy. Powered by a 350 V8, its steel body has been chopped, stanced, channeled and dropped. Period wheels and tires cover front disc brakes. A very nicely built blend of bootleg-era looks and contemporary performance.

Lot 356 — 1949 Cadillac Series 61 Club Coupe Sedanette
Estimate $65,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $55,000 including premium

The C-Body Cadillacs of 1948 and 1949 brought together big advances in engineering with the overhead-valve V8 and alluring looks. Here we see the first nubs of Harley Earl’s tailfins punctuating a sleek and graceful body, particularly in the fastback “Sedanette” form. This one form 1949 was a former barn find restored to its current condition with a rebuilt original drivetrain. It’s a positively gorgeous American cruiser that is said to drive quite well.

Lot 472 — 1981 Renault R5 Turbo
Estimate $75,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $49,500 including premium

The Renault R5 Turbo is in many ways an answer to a question no-one was asking. It’s a completely insane answer, yet it makes perfect sense at the same time. Take a pedestrian Renault R5 (what we might remember as Le Car) and transform it into a mid-engined beast that eats supercars for breakfast. This example looks to have been restored at some point to what appears to be a high degree, yet appears to have been used as intended which is to drive the merde out of it. What’s not to love?

Lot 486 — 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary
Estimate $425,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid of $320,000

Petrolhead Godmother always says, “if you get thrown from a bull, get right back on.” We missed out on the Lamborghini Countach 5000S Quattrovalvole at Gooding and Company’s Amelia Island sale earlier this month, thus we’re somewhat compelled to try again. This time it’s the ultimate expression of the Countach, the coveted 25th Anniversary model. This one shows beautifully in its classic Italian combination of red on tan. With a recent service and less than 21,000 km, it promises to be appropriately raging.

Lot 622 — 1948 MG TC
Estimate $52,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $37,500

Few capture the charm of early British motoring the way an MG TC does. Future TDs and TFs were already becoming too modern. This one from 1948 has been used sparingly since undergoing an older high quality restoration. It condition remains show worthy, but this little thing begs to be thrown on the open road, only stopping for a picnic. The Clipper Blue finish is a nice departure as well.

We came to a total of $922,000. Buyer’s premiums will put us slightly over the million dollar mark, but once again we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.

For the complete Auctions America Fort Lauderdale 2015 results click here.

ON THE BLOCK: Friday Highlights Auctions America Auburn Fall 2014

August 29, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Lot No. 2069 – 1959 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
No Reserve. Auction estimate: $20,000 – $25,000; moto+match estimate: $24,000

Offered here is a beautifully restored 1959 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible finished in delightful colors and accented with chrome bumpers and trim. The beige interior seats, carpets and door panels are very nicely presented, along with an underdash parcel package tray and an AM radio. The highly-detailed engine is a flat four-cylinder backed with a manual transmission. The car is riding on bias-ply wide whitewall tires with painted steel wheels and stainless hubcaps. The front suspension has kingpins with traverse torsion bars, rear swing axles with trailing arms and torsion bars and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. This beautiful Volkswagen convertible has a fun and tidy look that is sure to bring many miles of enjoyment.

Lot No. 3011 – 1985 Bitter SC 3.9 Coupé
No Reserve. Auction estimate: $8,000 – $15,000; moto+match estimate: $18,000

The 1985 Bitter SC offered here is fitted with a 3.9-liter inline six-cylinder that is rated at 207-hp and connected to an automatic transmission. The car has alloy wheels, power steering, brakes, windows, radio and air conditioning. The outside of the car is painted in grey with a nicely accenting red interior. It is 1 of 462 ever built.

Lot No. 3029 – 1959 Hillman Minx Three-Way Convertible
Auction estimate: $12,000 – $16,000; moto+match estimate: $10,000

Hillman performance was greatly increased for 1959 with the adoption of a then new, modern engine design, in which the inline four-cylinder engine had a greater power output for higher cruising speeds without sacrificing economy. The car also had a higher rear end gear ratio, plus changes to make the car more quiet and smooth. The ultra-smart radiator grille design added a new distinction to the long, low and graceful lines of the Hillman’s styling. The interior was also touted as being found with elegance and period luxury. This seldom-seen model has a three-speed manual transmission to go along with the four-cylinder powerplant. The Hillman also has a unique three-position convertible top and new radial tires. The car is reported to be a good running machine and also nice to drive.

Lot No. 3040 – 1960 Chevrolet El Camino
Auction estimate: $40,000 – $50,000; moto+match estimate: $40,000

On the automotive scene, 1960 saw Ford boasting an all-new body style, while the best their arch-rival, Chevrolet, could do (besides launching the revolutionary Corvair) was to offer refined versions of their new-for-‘59 models. One of which was the full-size El Camino car/truck hybrid, available in its second and last year. The idea of a car body and chassis integrated with a pickup bed was not new, and it was not very popular, either, with only 14,163 units finding buyers. Still, they were attractively styled and did offer the comfort of a car with the practicality of a light-duty pickup.

This sharp blazing red example has been extensively restored to a high standard and exhibits only a few very minor paint chips. Its contrasting white top, whitewall tires and chrome bed rails combine to make it even more distinctive. The chrome and stainless trim pieces have been refinished or restored to match the quality of the rest of the vehicle. Inside, more evidence of a top-notch restoration, with exceptional red and white houndstooth upholstery, as-new carpeting and a gleaming body-colored dash that features both radio and clock. A tried-and-true Chevy 283-cid V-8 with a Powerglinde automatic provides the go, and these too have been completely restored and detailed. The chassis and undercarriage are of the same high standards, showing only very minor signs of wear. All in all, this is an outstanding fully restored example of Chevy’s unique 1960 El Camino and is as distinctive and eye-catching today as it was when it rolled out of the dealer’s showroom.

Lot No. 3131 – 1968 Fiat Dino Spider
Auction estimate: $70,000 – $80,000; moto+match estimate: $100,000

Named after Enzo Ferrari’s Son, Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, the Fiat Dino has a very close relationship to the ever popular 246 Dino (or Ferrari Dino). While the entire goal was to be able to homologate the potent 2.0-liter V-6 developed by Alfredo Ferrari, it ended up a very large success on the road, just as much on the track. While Formula 2 cars sported an intense version of the 2.0-liter and later 2.4-liter version’s of the Dino V-6, it was the vast production of road cars and the masses that benefited from what was truly excellent engine technology of the time. Offered from 1966-1973 in two different series in both Coupe’ and Spider format the Fiat Dino was indeed bang for the buck amongst Italian car enthusiasts. It performed nearly the same as the 246 Ferrari Variant, but for far less and far more usable.

The example on offer here, a 1968 Fiat Dino Spider, Chassis # 135AS0000602 is the 602nd example produced and is considered a Series 1 2.0-liter version. Precise history is not known however we know from a few photos and various documentation in the trunk that by the 1980’s it was with a collector in Texas who was an avid Fiat Dino Club Member. By the early 1990’s the car received a total restoration as seen in a few accompanying photos. The nut and bolt restoration was carried out by World Motors Inc. of Austin, TX, reportedly to very high standards at the time. By 2004 it had migrated to an Italian Car Collector in Sellersville, PA where it was regularly enjoyed, shown, and cared for. Today the car has aged nicely to that of a driver quality example that reportedly runs and drives well, sounds fantastic and makes wonderful power thanks to its four cams and three Weber carburetors. Power to the wheels is by way of a five-speed gearbox that has a very nice feel and well defined gear selection. Cosmetically the car is very presentable as an example that could easily be shown, driven, and equally enjoyed during either. The Pininfarina designed body offers proportionate lines and a very comparable styling to any of Ferrari’s offerings of the 1960’s and 1970’s.

This Dino is a solid and complete example that has had the benefit of a restoration which has been proven by being driven and enjoyed. Complete with a tool kit, jack, spare, and various accompanying documentation this is an opportunity in the collector car world to acquire a famous name and lineage to a comparable car that is now rapidly approaching the $500,000 marque, the Ferrari 246 Dino. Comparable performance, styling, and all of the right attributes these little Dino’s will surely prove to be a wise addition to any collection.

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch Saturday Auctions America Auburn Spring

May 10, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Lot No. 4078 – 1982 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Limited
Estimate: $ 45,000 – $ 55,000

This exceptional 1982 Jeep Deluxe Grand Wagoneer is fresh off of an approximately $100,000 restoration that prompts our consignor to proclaim that “it is the finest example in the world.” That claim is hard to dismiss as this fine four-wheel drive vehicle looks like the day it was first presented in the factory showroom. It is finished in a rich cream tone with woodgrain side trim, recalling the popular “woodie” of yesterdays. The interior is a complementary brown shade that has both vinyl and cloth in the seat patterns. The Jeep runs with a 360-cid V-8 engine that is mated to an automatic transmission. The Wagoneer is well-equipped with factory air conditioning, luggage rack, deluxe wheels, trailer hitch, Pioneer stereo, dual mirrors with driver’s side remote, tilt wheel; power door locks, windows, seats, and tailgate window. This is truly representative of a like-new Jeep Wagoneer and optioned like you’d ordered it yourself.

This outstanding Jeep Wagoneer is proudly offered from the Bob Lutz Collection.

Lot No. 4087 – 1967 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S
Estimate: $ 45,000 – $ 55,000

For 1967 the Barracuda was completely redesigned and no longer shared any sheetmetal with the Valiant. The engine bay of the body was enlarged, so the 383-cid V-8 would fit. The Formula S made its name by its ability to corner better than most American cars; providing a nice balance of acceleration and handling.

This beautiful Formula S Barracuda is reported as a longtime western states car that has received a just completed restoration that is detailed and high-quality throughout. According to the owner; although Plymouth did not keep “great records” of certain information, from what he has been able to gather from his research this is thought to be one of only 14 Daffodil Yellow 383-cid V-8 Formula S Barracudas and five had white interior, such as with this car. The owner also states that this is the only one he has seen and he wonders if it may be the last one left. The drivetrain is reported as correct throughout and also to have the proper date codes; the car is accompanied by its fender tag and certicard. The transmission is a desirable four-speed manual; among the equipment is the Formula S package, front disc brakes, AM radio, vacuum meter, tinted windshield, high trim grade, white vinyl bucket seats with black interior, 3.23:1 axle ratio, stamped steel wheels and redline tires. The Plymouth is reported as being detailed down to the correct Mopar battery; it has been stripped to bare metal and every aspect has been gone through and redone. This is photo-documented and includes the drivetrain rebuild, as well as new wiring and rubber seals.

Lot No. 4123 – 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Roadster
Estimate: $110,000 – $130,000

The Mercedes Benz 190SL is today what it was when introduced in 1954 at the New York Motor Show: A less expensive, more practical, and smaller version of the illustrious 300SL. However, it is certainly not lacking in any of its big brothers technical refinements. The 190SL offered plenty of capability and race-bred technology to those enthusiasts considering a sporting roadster. From its production in 1955 through its replacement with the 230SL in 1963, nearly 26,000 would be produced with only a fraction in existence today. The 190SL was also the start of the “options list” for Mercedes-Benz. Never before could a car be tailored like a fine suit the way a 190SL could have been. Everything from elaborate color schemes, tops, accessories, seats, and even a very rare sports-racing option was available. These nimble little two seat roadsters with their iconic, forward styling were the first Mercedes-Benz convertibles to hit home with the U.S. market and started a full-fledged frenzy, and one that has yet to end over 58 years later.

The example on offer here, Chassis # 12104010017435 is presented today as a fantastically well-restored 190SL and adheres to its original build specifications. Thanks to The Mercedes-Benz Classic Center and the accompanying Chassis Zertifikat, we know that this example was delivered exactly as follows per its original Data Card:

Engine number: 121 921 10 017544
Transmission number: 017680
Front axle number, l: 17650
Front axle number, r: 17634
Rear axle number: 010057
Steering box number: 17492
Exterior color code: 658 – ivory

Option Codes:

401- Single seats
441- Bumper with guards, front
515- Becker radio set “Europe” USA
320- Outside rearview mirror, on the left, loose

Early history on this example shows that it was a European delivery and by 1966 was in the hands of its second long term owner in California. The original service booklet shows that in 1966-1972 the car was regularly serviced by both Mercedes-Benz of San Diego, and Adams Foreign car service, as documented in the original book. From this point forward there are numerous receipts from foreign car repair shops in the San Diego area that kept the car in order from 1972 until about 1991 where it was put away in dry storage, and driven seldom, until 2001 when it was serviced once more to be readied for sale. In 2003 a Mr. Bob Friedman of Nevada acquired the 190SL out of 40-plus year ownership as the third owner, with restoration in mind. Upon his acquisition, Mr. Friedman entrusted the services of Bell Straus Restoration of Costa Mesa, California to carry out a total restoration of this 190SL to as new condition.

As a totally numbers matching example, in good original colors, and with the benefit of being a straight and totally solid California car from nearly new, it doesn’t get much better in terms of a car to restore. The fact is this car has always been a good, solid, rust-free and accident-free example, which for a 190SL is indeed a rare thing. As restoration began in 2006 the entire car was completely disassembled, drivetrain removed, paint stripped, and the car was soon a completely apart and a bare chassis. Receipts in excess of $80,000 for services performed entail a total rebuild of the engine, transmission, rear end, brakes, steering and suspension as well as ancillary components. The chrome was completely refinished as new and the car received fresh and correct DB658 Ivory paint. Reassembly included a brand new interior to exacting and correct specifications, down to all of the little chrome items and most minute details. It shows superbly and is easily concours quality. Final assembly included a new and very correct German canvas top, all rubber components and nicely finished with a hardtop and new boot cover.

Since completion this 190SL has been enjoyed for only 1,602 kilometers (or about 900 miles) making this a very fresh example with merely break in/sorting miles attributed to it since completion of the restoration. As a nearly new example it is easily eligible for MBCNA events, concours and rallies and can be enjoyed as a well-sorted and restored example with no needs other than an enthusiastic owner. The car starts instantly, runs well showing strong oil pressure and very quick throttle response thanks to updated Weber carburetion (The original Solex carburetors are included in the sale). Going around a corner comes with ease as does stopping and accelerating. Having the benefit of being totally rebuilt throughout this 190SL is indeed quick, nimble and responsive and all-round well-suited for immediate use with excellent road manners. It is everything one would expect from a well-restored and concours quality example.

The fit and finish throughout should also be noted as excellent, the body is straight down the sides with good shut lines and panel fitment throughout. The chrome gleams and all of the accompanying rubber pieces are supple and nearly new as well. The glass is free from any defects and the interior is nothing short of new, but also shows as highly correct right down to the Becker Radio. The engine bay is another item on 190SL’s that warrants much attention from any discerning buyer. It has been nicely detailed and when restored there was quite obviously a lot of attention paid to items regarding correctness and presentation. Of which no corners were cut and the engine bay shows exactly as it should on a correct and well-restored 190SL.

In conclusion, this is an opportunity worth much consideration by any collector or enthusiast who is in the market for a finely restored 190SL. Factor in documented and known California history from new, limited ownership, two tops, original books, jack, spare and a totally documented history/restoration and one has a real opportunity to acquire a concours quality example, and a truly great car. The rising market tide has seen much recent appreciation for the “miniature 300SL” with no real end in sight. This will no doubt be an opportunity to buy a very good car to be enjoyed, but also will likely prove to be a wise investment as well.

Lot No. 4137 – 1967 Volkswagen Deluxe 21-Window Type 2
Estimate: $100,000 – $120,000

This example is finished in white over Sealing Wax Red and is equipped with its original 1500 model, 1,493-cc engine, which has been rebuilt, and its original four-speed manual transmission. Restored approximately six years ago to exacting standards, it has been very well cared for and maintained and it remains in exceptional condition. It benefits from still having all its original sheetmetal and original floors and original interior which has been, of course, reupholstered at the time of restoration. A Deluxe model, it is equipped with a full-size sunroof and safari windows. Interestingly enough this Microbus was originally order by a U.S. Service Member who was stationed in Germany at the time and took delivery of this bus new in Paris, France. Residing in Tennessee, he shipped the bus back to the U.S. after his tour was over in Europe and this example comes with the original title from Tennessee, as well as the original paperwork showing the loan as it was applied for through the Military Credit Union at the time. Additionally it comes complete with all books and manuals and would be an incredible addition to any collection.

Lot No. 5132 – 1955 Chrysler Imperial Newport Coupe
Estimate: $ 75,000 – $ 90,000

With understated elegance and a well-deserved reputation for engineering excellence, the Imperial nameplate topped the Chrysler product line from 1926 through 1975. In order to further distinguish the Imperial line, Chrysler Corporation designated the Imperial as a separate marque in 1954. The all-new 1955 Imperials were based heavily on the fabulous new Chryslers that also appeared that year, which benefited from the full influence of renowned stylist Virgil Exner. Imperials were available in two basic forms – the C69 short-wheelbase Newport Coupe or Sedan and the long-wheelbase C70 Crown Imperial – and were known for their excellent build quality.

The C69 Imperial models, such as this car, were priced from about $4,500, with many standard features including power steering and power brakes. This car has optional accessories that include a four-way power front seat, power windows, chrome wire wheels, bias-ply whitewall tires and a signal-seeking radio. Befitting its status, the standard Imperial engine was Chrysler’s top power unit for 1955 – the 331 cubic inch V-8 engine with hemispherical (hemi) combustion chambers and a four-barrel carb, mated to the smooth-shifting PowerFlite automatic transmission with dash-mounted control lever.

This car is finished in Canyon Tan (salmon-toned) with a white top, while the interior is presented in a similarly-toned cloth and vinyl combination with salmon carpets that are nicely fit. The dash pad, dash face and gauges are “like new.” And the exterior paint and chrome exhibit nice quality and good panel fit. The engine bay is highly detailed and the chrome elements are in equally wonderful condition.

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch Friday at Auction America Auburn Spring

May 9, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Lot No. 2098 – 1978 Ferrari 308 GTB
Estimate: $ 45,000 – $ 55,000

Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1975, the Ferrari 308 was a replacement for the successful 246 Dino line. It sported a Pininfarina styled body that was available in only a GTB coupe variant early on, and then in 1977, Ferrari introduced the GTS (Targa Top) model. Its iconic wedge shaped body lines were designed by Leonardo Fioravanti who had been famous for his previous work; the 365 Daytona and 246 Dino. The early carbureted cars such as the one offered here, sport the standard 2.9-liter mid-engine V-8 which produced about 240 horsepower fitted to a five-speed manual transmission. Ferrari went on to produce fuel injected 308’s making the GTSi, GTBi available starting in 1980, and the Quatrovolve, in 1983. Total production numbers for all variation were 12,149 in a span of ten years, 1975 to 1985. Although being the highest production model Ferrari in existence, the 308 is a must have for any collector or enthusiast. In particular, the early carbureted cars prove to be the most valuable among the Ferrari community with the GTB being the ‘drivers car’ as opposed the open GTS variant.

This car, chassis number F106AB25879 is an early carbureted car finished the classic Ferrari color combination of Rosso Corsa over a contrasting Tan interior. Sold new out of sunny Florida, it spent the majority of its life under the care of the first owner until being acquired by the second owner, a Pennsylvania based Ferrari collector, in 2006. Between its two owners, it gathered a mere 28,910 miles from new, always being serviced and cared for along the way. The most recent 30K service was completed just 3 years ago under the second owner’s discretion. The paint is extremely presentable as is the interior and engine bay confirming its low mileage and caring ownership. This example is also complete with tools, jack, and spare making it a complete package for the discriminating enthusiast. The Ferrari market has risen to levels unlike any other marque making the brand a centerpiece for the collector car world. 308’s have seen recent value hikes but currently remain very affordable as an investment that can be enjoyed. A low mileage GTB in the best color combination, with 2-ownership history and great accessories is surely an opportunity not to be missed.

Lot No. 2101 – 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220 SEb Cabriolet
Estimate: $ 40,000 – $ 60,000

This Mercedes-Benz was originally purchased by a young doctor in Marin County, California and given to his bride as a wedding present. She drove it for 20 years, albeit with complaints of having to use a stick-shift; eventually the good doctor replaced it for her with a 450SL. From this ownership it was bought by a gentleman in Mill Valley, California, where he spent four years performing an “over the top” restoration. Although the car was rust-free, the car was completely stripped of all paint and undercoating. He then applied new undercoating and 20 coats of Havana Brown lacquer to all visible sheetmetal. Being a true fanatic doing the work; the car also had three coats of Havana Brown applied to the undercarriage. The 2,195-cc, 120-hp six-cylinder engine was completely rebuilt and the car received a new four-speed transmission, new clutch, new brakes, new top, new wool headliner, re-chromed bumpers and more. This includes a dashboard that is burled Carpathian elm and is “as fine as you are likely to see.” The restorer/owner bought two additional Mercedes-Benz’ to obtain the leather for the seats he was redoing, and they are now presented in the rare two-tone Palomino and Tan combination. Among the equipment on the car are a Becker Mexico AM/FM radio, air conditioning; power top, windows, steering and brakes.

The current owner has owned the car for 28 years and when he heard of it being for sale, he contacted an appraiser to look the car over. The appraiser was so impressed with the quality of work; he had the restorer/owner work on his own cars. When purchased by the current owner, it arrived in Chicago with 81,023 miles on it – during the ensuing years, it now has a total of 85,110 miles. After driving it 1,000 miles over the first two years of ownership, it now spends most of its time under a car cover in the owner’s garage. It is now mainly used for early Sunday morning drives on Lake Shore Drive, but only if it is sunny weather. This lovely car has never seen snow, and it has never been parked and left unattended in the last 28 years. The Mercedes-Benz comes with a folder filled with letters and notes from the restorer/ex-owner that includes diagrams on how to oil and grease the car, as well as the locations of tiny drain holes that allow the car to go out in the rain and properly drain any falling moisture. The car is also accompanied by multiple documents, owner’s manual and tools.

Lot No. 2117 – 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302
Estimate: $ 65,000 – $ 75,000

This Mustang is reported as a rotisserie-restored California car with 55,705 actual miles per its verification by a Marti Report. It is finished in Bright Yellow (sometimes referenced as Grabber Yellow) with a black interior and runs with a 302-cid, 290-hp V-8 engine with a four-speed manual transmission and 3.91 gearing in a correct V-code Traction-Lok rear end. The drivetrain is reported as correct to the car. Other desirable features include this being a factory shaker car, rear decklid spoiler, Sports Slats, AM radio, power brakes and Magnum 500 wheels. It has been signed by racing legends Parnelli Jones and George Follmer, who as teammates in 1970, took their Bud Moore-prepared Boss 302 Mustangs to the coveted Trans-Am manufacturer’s title.

Lot No. 3037 – 1969 NSU Ro 80
Estimate: $ 10,000 – $ 14,000

The Ro 80 was considered to be a technologically advanced automobile produced by the West German firm of NSU from 1967-1977. Most notably was the drivetrain consisting of a 113 horsepower 995-cc twin-rotor Wankle engine with front-wheel drive. It also featured a fully independent suspension with rack-and-pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes. This special example is finished in bright lime green with a black vinyl interior. It also has a manual transmission, bucket seats, sunroof, AM/FM radio and alloy wheels. The appearance of this sedan is very original within the engine compartment and interior and is likely one of the best examples to be found in America.

Lot No. 3055 – 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster
Estimate: $ 40,000 – $ 45,000

Once again the Sports Roadster made an appearance at the top of the Thunderbird lineup. At $5,563 it was also the most expensive T-Bird available that year. There were minimal changes in styling as this was the final year of the third generation of Thunderbird styling introduced in 1961. Known as the bullet birds, the reference referred to the look of the rear taillights. The Thunderbird found itself to have competitors with the introduction of the Pontiac Grand Prix, Buick Riviera, Olds Starfire and the Studebaker GT Hawk. As a result, sales dropped nearly 20-percent from the year before. It is one of just 455 Sports Roadsters of a total of 63,133 Thunderbirds produced for 1963.

Painted in classic Rangoon Red over a contrasting red leather interior, this T-Bird is equipped with the 390-cid V-8, automatic transmission, power steering and brakes and AM/FM radio and chrome wire wheels.

Tag: Auctions America

ON THE BLOCK: The $1,000,000 Fort Lauderdale Challenge

ON THE BLOCK: Friday Highlights Auctions America Auburn Fall 2014

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch Saturday Auctions America Auburn Spring

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch Friday at Auction America Auburn Spring

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