Restoration Archives

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.


VIN	12870065
Exterior	[6804] Light Ivory
Interior	[B] Black Leatherette
Motor	1.6 L H4 rated at 90 bhp
Gearbox	[902/02] 5-Speed Manual
Exterior Condition	Outstanding (1)
Interior Condition	Outstanding (1)
Drivetrain	Outstanding (1)
Braking	Excellent (2)
Suspension/Ride	Excellent (2)
Tires/wheels	Good (3+)

APPRECIATING CLASSIC Anyone who has followed the market on the original, Butzi-designed, short-wheelbase Porsche A Modelles can speak to their stratospheric appreciation, particularly since the recent Arizona auctions. Sadly, the dream of owning a 1965-1968 Porsche 911 is getting out of reach for most hobbyist collectors. But there is a glimmer of hope. As it did when it was introduced in 1965, the 912 offers much of the same joys of owning a classic Porsche at prices that are still reasonable. With their iconic looks, nimble handling and go-the-distance fuel economy, the Porsche 912 is a Cinderella story in the making. However, finding a 912 that hasn’t been treated like the unworthy stepsister can be a grim task. Likewise, to bring one back to its deserved glory can be more trouble than its worth—literally. The 912 Targa presented here has been painstakingly restored to a high standard from the ground up and it sits today much like it did on the showroom floor in 1968.

HISTORY AND CONDITION

This 912 owes much of its restoration quality to its history. With only two prior owners from dry climates (California and New Mexico), the rust that plagues early Porsches was not a factor. There was no rot on the body whatsoever and with new floors and longitudinals, the carriage is factory fresh. Its bare-metal paint was done to a very high standard as an exact factory match to its original and desirable Light Ivory color. Gaps are near perfect—exceptional for an almost 50-year-old open-roof car. All seals, felt and rubber trim were replaced for a solid, like-new feel. The interior is completely new including cushions, upholstery, dash, carpets and trim. It truly is a throwback to how it would’ve felt behind the wheel in 1968. The correct motor and transmission are a nuts-and-bolts rebuild and with less than 300 miles since, it feels fresh and surprisingly lively. That’s due in part to its Weber carburetors, though the factory Solex are also included in the sale. The Fuchs wheels are in excellent condition with no curb rash and very good finish (Certificate of Authenticity shows the car delivered with Steelies, one of the only things NOT original to the car). All hinges, struts, latches, etc. work properly. Also included are hard-to-find items like complete tool roll and original (not reprint) owner’s manual.