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Pebble Beach Concours d'EleganceThe Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is considered the premier concours in North America, and arguably, the world. It is the signature event for the collector car hobbyist and takes place during a very busy week, filled with over fifty related automotive events which include the Monterey Historic Automobile Races and numerous classic car auctions and shows. With so many automotive enthusiasts congregated in one location, many major manufacturers and luxury bands take the opportunity to unveil new models or display their current line-up. This year, Rolls-Royce, Tesla, Spyker, Volkswagen, Jaguar, Saab, Ford, Infiniti, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and Pininfarina promoted their newest offerings. The 175 carefully selected show cars are displayed on the 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, California. The cars are among the most rare and unique in the world, many making their first public appearance in decades. All of the entrants were invited to participate in the Tour d'Elegance, taking place a few days prior to the concours. The route takes the cars on some of the finest and scenic roadways in the area. The tour is optional, but a successful completion of the tour gives the car an edge in case of a tie. This year, the celebrated marques were Delahaye and Voisin. The concours recognized the Pebble Beach road races of the early 1950s, early mid-engined prototypes and concepts, and Victoria convertibles. Both Delahaye and Voisin were ultra-luxury automobiles produced during the Art Deco era and fitted with the greatest coachwork available. The Delahaye models were mostly clothed by French coachbuilders and given sporty, aerodynamic, and rounded designs with flamboyant features such as tail fins and a generous use of chrome. In contrast, the Voisin cars were mostly designed by French airplane constructor Gabriel Voisin who drew-up angular designs, with low-slung chassis and finished the cars in lightweight aluminum. Time has not been kind to many of the aluminum bodies, and few examples have survived. Thirteen Voisin vehicles were on display, making it the largest showing in many years, possibly since the company went out of production in 1939.
Russo and Steele Auction in MontereyRusso and Steele Exceeds $13 Million in Monterey Two-Night Auction Sells 155 Collector Automobiles at No Reserve Russo and Steele's sixth annual 'Sports and Muscle in Monterey' collector automobile auction soared into record figures as two evenings of spirited bidding exceeded $13 million in sales for a resounding $13,153,000.00 in total. The August 18th and 19th auction marks the first time that the Scottsdale-based company has held a two-night sale in Monterey, where all 155 cars were sold at NO RESERVE. Amongst their success on the auction block Russo & Steele had great success with their Thursday, August 17th 2006, charity preview event that benefited a local non-profit organization called 'My Museum.' Three different television programs captured the action and excitement at Russo & Steele Monterey. Voom's Treasure HD, the high-definition program on collecting (found on dish network channel 9473), covered both nights of the entire auction live. Voom also aired two 1-hour preview shows that had interviews with Drew Alcazar, president of Russo & Steele, and John Bemiss, Consignment Director. Additionally, The Learning Channel filmed a segment of their 'Rags to Riches' show that featured the Mercury Cougar prepared by Barry's Speed Shop. Finally, The Discovery Channel filmed a segment featuring the 1953 Studebaker.
Monterey Sports & Classic Car AuctionThe Pebble Beach Weekend is one of the most exciting times for any automotive enthusiasts. Not only is there the most anticipated concours of the year, but multiple activities that lead up to that day such as historic races, five auctions, various other car shows, events, and happenings. One of those auctions was the 21st annual Monterey Sports & Classic Car Auction, which was so large that it was held on two nights. The cars were on display in downtown Monterey at the Fisherman's Warf with the auction held at the adjacent Portola Plaza Hotel and Conference Center. There were four separate catalogs to detail the over two-hundred vehicles on display and up for auction. A new record was set for the event, with combined sales totaling almost $43 million dollars for the two days. The lobby, overflow rooms, staging area for the cars, and other rooms were filled with speakers and televisions as the auction broadcasted to hundreds of people who were not able to find a seat in the packed auction room. In the back and sides of the auction room people stood shoulder-to-shoulder. Many had come just to watch the event. The Ferrari 412 S race car was the highlight of the event. This racer was driven by Phil Hill and Richie Ginther and powered by a V12 Type 141 engine capable of producing over 440 horsepower. Among other tasks, it was used by Steve Earl to promote the first Monterey Historic Races. The appeal of the RM Auction event can be summed up in the words of RM's founder, Rob Meyers, when he said 'The 412 S is by far, one of the most valuable automobiles in the world.' This car was expected to break the sales record that RM set in 2002 when they sold a Ferrari 330 TRi/LM for $6.5 million. Following in its wake were seven other vehicles that reached the seven figure mark and over seventy that sold for six figures or more. Only three vehicles were sold for less than ten thousand dollars. From lot number 452 through lot number 481 the bidding was six to seven figures. There were many instances throughout the night when vehicles would sell for the price of most people's homes. The pedigree and historical significance of the vehicles on sale was undeniable, a fact that was proven over and over throughout the event. Just over 22 cars of the 200+ were left unsold.
Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance & Motoring FestivalThe 5th Anniversary of the Hilton Head Island Concours, held on the grounds of the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn Hilton Head Island, SC, occurred during the early part of November, 2006. This years event paid tribute to the Cars of Indiana and Indianapolis Pace Cars. The concours was the last event of a busy weekend which included Vintage Track Days, Worldwide Group Auction, VIP Reception, Southern Belle Fashion Show, a concert which was 'A Salute to Frank Sinatra', seminars, art previews, Car Club Jamboree, two driving tours, BMW's Ride and Drive, and more. The grounds of Honey Horn provide an excellent location for the Concours. The beautiful Charter Oak trees, historic buildings, and grassy pastoral setting create a peaceful atmosphere and a feeling of tranquility. The weather was enjoyable and the sun seemed just as happy to see the cars as did the spectators. The Cars of Indiana This years honored marque was the cars of Indiana which included cars from the Golden Age of manufacturing such as Auburn, Duesenberg, Cord, Stutz, and Studebaker. With more than four-hundred cycle-cars, automobiles, and trucks produced or assembled in Indiana, they were a formidable contender to Michigan as the automotive Mecca of the world. In the early 1900's, the Hoosier state had more automobile assembly plants than Michigan. By 1909 they had slipped into second, behind Michigan, for automobile production supremacy.
Worldwide Group Auction at Hilton Head IslandThe Worldwide Group, an Indiana based company which specializes in auctioning significant automobiles, partnered with the Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival for the Hilton Head Auction which took place on the day prior to the Concours. 'The prestige and recognition which The Worldwide Group name brings further establishes our event as being in the top tier of all auto events in the United States,' said Carolyn Vanagel, Executive Director of the Concours. 'Their presence in November will help attract an even more elite list of event participants.' Vanagel pointed out that Rod Egan, a Worldwide Group Principal, has handled and operated some of the largest auctions and collections in North America. He has the unique experience of having sold over $3 billion both privately and through auction, placing him in an elite group of few auctioneers who have handled major asset conversions at that level. Widely respected for his appraisal and sales ability, Rod Egan has helped close some of the largest private car collection sales in North America in recent years.
Hilton Head Island Concours Car Club DisplayThis year was another strong turn-out for the Hilton Head Car Club Display. This took place on the day prior to the Hilton Head Concours and added greatly to the event. Over ten car clubs took part in this opportunity to park their vehicles on the beautiful lawn of Honey Horn, located on Hilton Head Island. The Palmetto Studebaker Driving Club was formed to promote the appreciation for the design and engineering excellence of the products of the Studebaker Corporation. Their participation at the Honey Horn event was very impressive, amassing a large number of Studebakers in one gathering. They were positioned in a very picturesque location surrounded by beautiful landscape. The 1941 Studebaker Champion was the oldest Studebaker example on display. It was flanked by later versions of the Studebaker Champion which featured the bullet-nose grilles. The controversial, love-or-hate design of the Avanti was one of the more-studied vehicle of the day. One viewer stated 'I don't think I've ever heard one nice thing said about this design.' The design may have been questionable but the engine was unmatched. The Avanti R3 was clocked at 171 mph in the Nevada Desert. Performance vehicles took center stage featuring vehicles such as Corvettes, Mustangs, and Porsche's. The Roush Owners And Enthusiast Society proudly showed-off their vehicles. The Mustang Stage 3 and 427R Mustangs both had engines that produced over 400 horsepower. The additional power upgrade comes via a ROUSH-engineered ECM calibration which has been specially-tuned to work in harmony with the different exhaust system used on the vehicle. Modifications continue throughout the vehicle, with upgrades to the suspension, braking, tires, wheels, body, interior, and more. In the Carolina Jaguar group was a beautiful 1.5 Litre SS Jaguar. Sitting nearby was another very early post-war vehicle, the Jaguar Mark V. Production of the Mark V lasted from 1949 through 1951 with a total of 1675 examples being produced. This was one of the final pre-war designs to grace a Jaguar.
Motoring Festival at Roebling Road RacewayThe long straight stretches and challenging turns of Roebling Road Raceway tested both driver and racer. The event was just one of many events held during a busy Hilton Head Concours weekend which included seminars and lectures, dinners, concerts, fashion shows, car club shows, auctions and more. The race was a new event added by the HSR (Historic Sportscar Racing, Ltd.) and featured the race cars of Indianapolis. In addition to the Indy 500 machinery, B.O.S.S. Formula Series cars (Formula Atlantic, Formula 2, Formula 3000, Formula 5000, IndyLights, Formula 1 and Indy Champ cars, and IRL), and American Muscle Cars all took center stage. All participants and spectators were invited to participate in special parade laps around the 2.02 mile road course. All participants in the track portion were invited to display their vehicles in the Quest For Speed & Style exhibit at the Concours in Hilton Head Island.
The Quail: A Motorsports GatheringIn its fourth year, The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering takes place during the hectic Pebble Beach Concours weekend. With many automotive activities happening during this time, the Quail has built a reputation for being one of the most exclusive and intimate automotive events of the weekend. Located on the golf course of the Quail Lodge, the Quail features rare motorsport automobiles, fine wines, and a peaceful atmosphere. A limited number of selected entrants are permitted to grace the show field; the number of those in attendance is limited to just 3000, with the tickets selling rather quickly. Though the $150 may appear to be rather steep for just an entry-fee, there is much that goes along with it. The ticket includes a lunch prepared by the chefs of the Lodge, wine tasting, collectible poster and magazine, access to the Bonhams & Butterfields auction, and test drives in Land Rovers and Bentley's. There were four themed regions of food, each presented with appropriate accompanying music and wine. The regions were Little Italy, Greek Delights, Flavors of Spain, and The California Farmer's Market. There were three main themes honored this year that included the coachwork of Zagato, 100th anniversary of the Targa Florio, and Laguna Seca's 50th anniversary. History of Targa Florio, Laguna Seca, and Zagato The Targa Florio was created by Vincenzo Florio and began in 1906 near Palermo, Sicily. It continued until 1977 when it was canceled due to safety concerns. Up to that point it held the title of the oldest sports car racing event in the world and one of the most difficult open road endurance automobile races. The first race covered 277 miles through terrain that included steep hills, curvy mountains, and several climate changes. The inaugural race was won by Alessandro Cagno after nine hours. As the years continued the course was changed various times in an effort to improve safety and make the race more enjoyable for spectators.
Bonhams & Butterfields at The Quail Lodge, Resort & Golf ClubThe Bonhams & Butterfields Auction was held just a short walking distance away from 'The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering.' The two complimented each other rather well, as the auction had gathered a collection of cars that were well suited for either Motorsports or Concourse displays. Another facet of the auction was the fine collection of jewelry and memorabilia that provided 'fun for the whole family.' The first car on the block was a Cistalia 202 SMM Recreation that was basically just a sculpture, as the drive-train was not in functional condition. It was estimated to fetch at most, six-thousand dollars. Bidding quickly made a mockery of that estimate, and the high bid soon reached over $26,000. This was a great start to the auction and a sign of things to come. The auction would sell over 90% of the vehicles that had come for sale, totaling over $13 million. At least three vehicles were sold for over seven figures and nearly 40 in the six-figure range. The average sale for each vehicle was around $214,500. This was very impressive, considering that of the sixty vehicles up for auction, only eight were labeled 'without reserve.' There were, what could be classified as, four categories of cars at this auction. The first were the racing cars of the prototype and CanAm series. These were purpose-built racing machines, with high horsepower outputs (some over 1000), and a racing pedigree that includes outright winning seasons, to famous drivers, and to track records. The next were the late French vehicles of the 1930s that featured aesthetics, style and beauty in a high-octane performance package. The third groupings of cars were the 'specials', Indy and Midget racers. The final category could be classified as 'everything else', which ranged from fire trucks, European luxury and sports cars, to American cars of all eras.
The 100 Motor Cars of Radnor HuntThe 100 Motor Cars of Radnor Hunt are carefully selected from collections from around the country each chosen for their educational value and aesthetic beauty. The level of detail, preparation, and show-field placement is amazing with a wonderful blend of classic and sports cars. Porsche Cars of Historical Racing Significance was one of the three featured categories this year, the other automotive category being the elegant coachwork of French Coachbuilders. The third honored category was the Triumph and BMW motorcycles. Included were some of the most rare and important examples from all categories. This was the 10th year of the annual event held in the beautiful landscape of Eastern Pennsylvania renowned for its rolling hills and horse pastures. The festivities began on Friday night with a barbeque which included a free panel discussion on the restoration and care of Porsche 356. Guests sipped on the finest brew as they enjoyed live entertainment and breath-taking views from the back porch of Radnor Hunt. On Saturday there was a rally through the historic and pastoral back roads of Chester County, finishing at a local country estate for a fabulous picnic lunch. Later that evening was the Art Show Cocktail Reception featuring the artist and local painter George H. Rothacker. Following the reception was a Black Tie Gala Dinner.
Retro Auto at Pebble Beach ConcoursThe Retro Auto was added to the Pebble Beach Concours weekend to highten the automotive exerpience even further. The four days of Retro Auto provides a venue for enthusiasts to purchase automobile collectibles such as art, books, brass sculptures, vehicle parts, and more. 'Pebble Beach Retro Auto caters to those who crave the finest in automobile merchandise,' said Sandra Kasky Button, co-chair of the Pebble Beach Concours, 'including memorabilia, the latest luxury goods and technological tools to enhance today's driving experience. This is the place for true automobile connoisseurs and collectors.' Located just outside of the display is a small collection of exciting automobiles that includes Aston Martins, Rolls Royces, Mercedes-Benz, and more.
Christie's at The Monterey Jet CenterAt this year's Christie's Auction of Exceptional Motor Cars in Monterey, CA there were 45 items offered with 33 finding new owners. The most anticipated sale was the 1928 MERCEDES-BENZ 26/120/180 TYP S Torpedo Roadster that was estimated to sell between $3,000,000-$4,000,000. At the conclusion of the bidding the magnificent creation with coachwork by Saoutchik had been sold for $3,645,000. The second highest sale of the day was the 1952 Ferrari 225 Sport Spyder with coachwork by Vignale. It carries chassis number 0160ED with matching engine number, finding a new owner at the price of $1,280,000. One of the more successful sales was the 1972 Lamborghini Miura SV which was expected to sell between $375,000-$425,000 but after some lively bidding the price was driven upwards to $477,000. There were forty-five items that crossed the auction block. In the audience there were at least a couple hundred people in attendance. Most of the chairs were occupied and there were even large groups of people standing in the rear. Judging from the people-to-auction lot ratio it became apparent that this event was entertainment, educational, and social for many enthusiasts and lovers of art. Prior to the auction, the viewing was tranquil and peaceful. There were people socializing, admiring the cars, and preparing for the auction. The unique location of being at a Jet Port offered visitors the opportunity to either drive or fly to the auction. The auction focused on quality over quantity. Many of the vehicles on sale had unique stories and backgrounds. One of those examples was the 1931 Packard 840 with coachwork by Waterhouse. At this year's Meadow Brook Concours one of the honored classes was the Waterhouse category which paid tribute to the coachwork of the Waterhouse firm. During their short existence there were 300 examples created with 100 of those being adapted to Packard chassis. Though this 1931 Packard 840 example was not shown at this year's Meadow Brook Concours, it did make an appearance at the 1997 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance where it was awarded a 'First in Class' and was a contender for the coveted Best in Show. This example is very clean, void of side mounted tires, allowing the elegant body to flow without disruption. It was expected to sell for $400,000-$500,000 and bidding ended right in-between that estimate at $449,500.
Pittsburgh Vintage Grand PrixWith time, there is change. Mistakes are forgotten and accomplishments are over shadowed with new achievements. To relive the past, one could read a book, visit a museum, watch a movie, or talk to someone who can conjure up memories of that point in history. Nothing can compare with traveling back in time and creating new memories and experiences. A study of the past is a realization and admiration for all that has been accomplished since then. Living by standards of the past is unacceptable in modern times. What was the pinnacle a few years ago is well below par to what is expected today. The pre-war group at the PVGP is a race that is truly unparalleled in terms of generating respect and admiration by those watching. The loud engines do all they can to keep the vehicle in motion as it climbs the steep Schenley Park hills. The real fun occurs in the corners. The thin tires shreak, as if in pain or trumpeting their ability to hold the car on the road. It is amazing they do not just snap in two or that the rubber comes loose from the wheel. The driver, with hand outside the vehicle firmly griping the shifter, sends the vehicle into the next gear applying more power and taking the vehicle to its limits. There is a serious look on their faces as they concentrate and hope to all that is holy that at the exit of the corner, the vehicle is still in their control. To help the car, the head and body is tilted in the direction of the corner, as if car and driver were one. As they came out of the corners, the excitement ends and a look of relief can now be found on the drivers face. If it were not for the loud engine it would appear that on the straight stretches the vehicle and driver were not even trying. Comparing their speeds to modern vehicles would be a battle of the tortoise and the hare. Times have changed but the past never ceases to impress. On a track, when a vehicle goes off course they are greeted immediately by a sand trap or rubber barriers. At the PVGP when a vehicle goes off course it is introduced to dangers that motorists experience everyday. Jersey barriers, trees, curbs, and rock walls are very unforgiving. This is a serious race with potentially dangerous and serious consequences. The stakes are high but so are the rewards.
Corvettes at CarlisleCarlisle was awash in a sea of fiberglass at the 25th Annual Corvettes at Carlisle on the 82-acre Carlisle Fairgrounds this weekend. More than 6,000 Corvettes of all years, body styles and colors attended the largest annual three-day gathering of Corvettes in the world. The showfield alone was populated with more than 2,700 Corvettes, plus a full car corral and tens of thousands of spectators. A bevy of blue-and-white Corvettes made up the 10-year Grand Sport reunion. The Grand Sport was produced by Corvette in 1996 as homage to the original 1963 racing Grand Sport – only five were built. Only 1,000 of the '96 performance cars were produced. The Corvettes at Carlisle meet attracted 131 Grand Sport owners or 13 percent of the total Grand Sport population. This amounts to three times as many Grand Sports as have ever gathered together. Skunkmaster, John 'Hutch' Hutchinson was elated with the turnout, 'I've been coming to Carlisle for years, but this by far is one of the finest shows ever. We attracted people that have never been to Carlisle and I think we'll see many of them back again next year.' The Corvette engineering team came to Carlisle in full force. Chief Corvette Engineer Tom Wallace, Corvette Plant Manager Wil Cooksey and a number of other Corvette team members attended the annual event and took part in all of the activities. Wallace even participated in the first-ever Corvette Burnout Competition.
Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Car ShowSir William Lyons, the founder of Jaguar, would have been pleased with the vast display of Jaguars that were in attendance for this year's Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Car Show at Schenley Park. Truly a display of style and performance. The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix has been in operation since 1983 and since that time it has evolved from a one-day vintage race to a week-long festival of races, car shows and motorsports activities. The PVGP has become the country's largest vintage racing event and the only one staged on city streets. The Car Show was held on the day prior to the race, the same day as practice and qualifying for the race cars. This year's featured marque was Jaguar. As the 150 race cars were being pushed to their limits during the qualifying and practice sessions, the show cars sat stagnate, basking in the sun and enjoying the attention they were getting from the curious spectators. Though it has rained for a number of prior years during the car show, this year was a break from tradition with sunny skies and hot temperatures. The largest gathering of Jaguars would probably have been the E-Types, a road-going sports car conceived in 1956 as a replacement for the D-Type. Production lasted until 1975 with 72,520 examples produced. The large V-12 engine is carefully hidden under a long and sculptured bonnet. The 260-plus horsepower was more than enough to carry the vehicle from zero-to-sixty in just over seven seconds with a top-speed of 140 mph being very obtainable.
Gooding & Company Pebble Beach AuctionThe 2006 Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction was the third consecutive year for the Santa Monica, California based firm to perform the auctioneering duties for the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. 'The sales were sensational; we had a number of different bidders from our world-wide clientele,' said David Gooding, Gooding & Company founder and CEO. 'The showroom was packed with more than 2,000 in attendance. And we managed to raise more than a million dollars for charity.' The auction was held on the evening of the Pebble Beach Concours and was situated within walking distance from the concours. Many of the vehicles on the auction block had been previously shown at concourses, recently restored to concours condition, or even been a participant in the past Pebble Beach Concours. It was difficult to fathom the outcome of this scenario: the Gooding & Company Auction was at the tail end of a very busy weekend that included no less than 6 separate auctions that must have accounted for over a thousand rare and hard-to-find vehicles. The Concours weekend also included many car shows, concourses, racing events, and a slew of other activities. Would the buyers be tired and worn out from such the busy schedule, or would the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance be a motivator and help pry open the wallets and ignite the imagination? The answer was soon very obvious as the first ten vehicles to cross the auction block were sold, with most of them selling well above the estimated value. In total, there were nearly eighty vehicles offered for sale with sixty-two of them finding a new owner.
Monterey Historic Automobile RacesThe 33rd Annual Monterey Historic Automobile Races played host to some of the finest racing machines ever created. The complex and challenging Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with its infamous 'corkscrews' and rolling terrain are enough to challenge driver and machine and entertain the on-lookers. The cars that are invited to race at this event and be apart of the annual celebration are among the rarest machinery in the world. Their value is priceless, and to entice owners to pull their pride-and-joy out of the private collections and museums in which they are housed, and race on this challenging course, safety is a top priority. Aggressive driving is discouraged; this may take some of the 'fun' out of the sport, but it does help preserve the vehicles and allow spectators to enjoy the cars in true form on one of the greatest racing circuits in the world. Though aggressive driving is discouraged, it does not mean the cars are not driven with passion and pursuit for the checkered flag. It would be hard for the drivers not to preserve the legacy of the car, or try to establish a new one. This years theme honored the cars and accomplishments of Charles and John Cooper, and the Formula 1 World Championship winner, Sir Jack Brabham. Brabham captured the F1 Championship on three occasions, twice in a Cooper and once in a car bearing his name.
Carlisle All-GM NationalsMuscle cars were the main attraction at this year's Carlisle All-GM Nationals at the famous Carlisle Fairgrounds. Whether you are a died-in-the-wool Camaro fanatic, a GTO enthusiast or just a die-hard GM fan, you saw it all at this weekend's GM show. Cars from all marques and eras joined the General in putting their best wheel forward. The biggest draw of the weekend was the appearance of the much-sought-after Camaro concept car. From the moment this awesome vehicle entered the building, it was surrounded by Camaro fans. One fan immediately asked upon seeing it, 'Where can I sign up to buy this car?' Judging from the numbers of spectators viewing the concept throughout the weekend, GM's concept Camaro had hit its mark. The GM team also brought two other concepts to Carlisle, the Avalanche and the Nomad. A new twist to the GM show this year was a quality presentation of high quality private collections. Carlisle's Building T resembled a museum this weekend. There were exceptional rides from three of the finest collections in the U.S.--McDorman, Schmeekle and Sandlin. These collections were among some of the finest examples of GM beauty and engineering around. Event Manager Dave Witmer commented, 'I've been around a lot of great GM cars, but never have I been in a building that contained so many fine classic automobiles.' The private collections were joined by a great showing of the General Motors Corporation. GM brought six Camaro Pace Cars from major races throughout the last four decades. GM personnel attending, loved the show and the support of the crowds. They indicated they would be back with more great cars and displays in 2007.
Blackhawk CollectionPurveyors of Rolling Art One of the first displays that visitors will encounter at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is the Blackhawk Collection Exhibit. This marks the 15th year that the Blackhawk Exposition sale is apart of the concours. On display are over eighty-five of some of the world's finest antique, classic and custom coachwork automobiles available for individual sale. The collection includes Bentleys, Ferraris', Jaguar, Roll-Royce, Delahaye, Horch, Lancia, Porsche, Isotta Fraschini, Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, Packards, and more. Part of the collection is under a large tent with the rest have been carefully arranged on the lawn with beautiful backdrops of the ocean and the golf course.
Meadow Brook Concours d'EleganceEd Lucas has served as the Master of Ceremonies for The Meadow Brook Concours since its beginning in 1975. This year, he made several comments along the lines of 'So many wonderful cars, I would hate to do the judging.' An obvious statement but one that was very true. Each class had so many wonderful cars that it would have been difficult to pick a winner. One glance at the show field made you realize that a diamond still shines just as brightly even amongst other diamonds. Most of the vehicles had a very distinguished history and impressive résumés including racing accomplishments, prestigious owners, concours winners, and more. Many had coach work by some of the greatest coach builders of all time. The design, history, running condition, and uniqueness all played a part in picking a winner. Walking the field was like reliving significant parts of automotive history. Our hat goes off to those individuals who were forced to pick the best of the best. The judging was not solely reserved for just the judges. The People's Choice award is basically a popularity contest voted on by the spectators. The most appealing and impressive vehicle often gets the most votes and is awarded this prestigious award. There were many wonderful vehicles to choose from; some had very curvy bodies while others could best be described as 'rolling houses' due to their mammoth sizes. This year's winner encompassed both of these. Although the car was enormous its body was smooth, flowing, and unique. Even the windows are one-of-a-kind. Finished in dominate black paint color and having recently received a full body-off restoration, the winner was the Rolls Royce Phantom I. At Meadow Brook the vehicles were arranged by classes and then positioned in a circle and roped off from the public. This allowed the vehicles to be admired from a distance and everyone walked as though they were playing 'ring around the rosy'. Some concourses allow visitors to get up close to the vehicle, to look inside, and to walk around and view it from all angles. However the rope does provide an extra level of protection for the owners and limits the probability of scratching and denting of their vehicle.
RM Auctions at Meadow BrookOn an early Saturday morning, RM Auction workers were preparing for a long day of auctioning; an auction that began mid-morning and went well into the evening. Their preparation included the arrangement of the cars behind the auction tent in the order of which they were to be auctioned. Most were driven but some were pushed into position. The cars that could be started often put up a fight, not wanting to be disturbed from their slumber. Dew was still on the grass and the sun was still making its ascent into position that would scare away the darkness. Since many of the cars were pre-WWII era and it was early in the morning, this rude awakening is understandable. When started, the cars often trumpeted their return to operation by a cloud of smoke from their exhaust and the gentle rumbling of their well-kept engine. This years Classic Car Auction at the Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance took place adjacent to Meadow Brook Hall located on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. RM Auctions was on-hand to perform the auctioning duties. The auction began with the sale of memorabilia with items selling for hundreds to thousands of dollars. There were a few items that sparked heated bidding but most items found a home with the original bidder.
Greenwich Concours d' EleganceIt seems that when automobiles are involved, a competition is soon to follow. Ever since the existence of the automobiles in the late 1800's, there has been Concours d'Elegance. Intended for the social elite, the car, driver and family, and even the accessories, clothing, luggage, and picnic baskets were judged at the original councours'. Concours cars typically were new or only a few years old and the competition focused on the best presented car regardless of age. Many vehicles were bought, detailed, and sent to the concours lawn a few days later. Though there have been changes since then, Concours d'Elegance still center around the automobile and its presentation. Judges rate the vehicle based on its appearance, pedigree, correctness, originality, and a whole slew of criteria. Most of the time the vehicles have just undergone a full restoration and are in perfect running order with matching parts and numbers to when they left the showroom floor. Most of the shows are invitation only and based on a theme or centered on a marque. Many have tried to distinguish their event by offering something different and unique. The vehicles are classic, vintage, and collector cars that had been carefully hand selected by a committee. The Greenwich Concours d'Elegance continues this long and proud tradition, showcasing some of the world's greatest automobiles ever produced. The eleventh annual Greenwich Concours d'Elegance was held in early June of 2006 at the Roger Sherman Baldwin Park in Greenwich, Connecticut. The Roger Sherman Baldwin Park sits directly next to water and is within walking distance of restaurants, theaters, and stores. On display were land, air, and sea-going vessels which included vintage and contemporary power boats and a wide array of automobiles. The event was orchestrated by co-chair's Bruce and Genia Wennerstrom. A few years ago the Wennerstroms envisioned a world-class concours in their hometown of Greenwich and since its inception has evolved into one of the top events in the country and one that helps benefit AmeriCares, a favorite charity of theirs. The Geenwich Concours consists of two separate events. Saturday's Greenwich Concours d'Elegance features pre-WWII and post-WWII domestic cars. Sunday's Greenwich Concours Europa focuses solely on pre-WWII and post-WWII European sports, touring, and competition cars. Both events also include vintage motorcycles, aircraft, and boats. Both events are invitational. Many of the cars shown each day are rare, limited-production, or one-off vehicles. In addition, each day there are galleries of automotive art and memorabilia, a book alley, workshops and demonstrations, and fascinating exhibits.
PVGP BeaveRun Historic RacesThis years PVGP at BeaveRun was a two-day event that showcased legendary big-bore pedigrees such as the Ford Mustang, Shelby Cobra, and Chevy Corvette. The Pennsylvania Chapter of the BWM Car Club of American and Porsche Club could also be seen racing around the track fighting for top honors. In total there were seven groups of historic race cars, sanctioned by the VRG and VSCCA. The groups were divided into Small Bore Production Cars, Medium-Bore Production and pre-1960 Big-Bore, Formula Ford and Sports Racers, American Ground Pounders, BMW/Porsche Challenge, and Formula Vee, Formula Junior, and Sports Racers. Group one and two saw historic marques such as Jaguar, Triumph, Elva, Lotus, MG, Turner, Porsche, and Abarth. These small and agile sports cars were very popular during the 1950's and 1960's due to their lightweight construction, finely tuned suspension, and capable engines. Groups three and seven shared similar designs but different engine capacities and regulations. The Formula Ford, Formula Vee, and Formula Junior series were created to provide an inexpensive entrance into the world of racing. The focus was on driver ability rather than automobile potential. In these series, the best driver wins. The strict rules that regulated almost every aspect of the vehicles virtually guaranteed a level playing field. Class Results
PVGP Car Cruise at the WaterfrontThough there was a good mix of classic cars at the Waterfront in Pittsburgh PA, the theme of the day was definitely in favor of the muscle cars. Owners proudly displayed their cars, most with the hoods raised showing off their engines. A few import car owners got in on the fun but their compact engines paled in comparison. Though their stereo systems packed an impressive amount of punch, it was not long before they were asked to lower their music to a reasonable decibel level. The compact import cars may not be as fast as some of the outrageous muscle cars but the stereo system easily trumped the eight-tracks. This event was another activity in preparation for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. The Waterfront is located in Homestead and 15 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh. It is renowned for its shopping, dining, and entertainment and for its location next to the Monongahela River. The wide-open parking lots were perfect for the hundreds of vehicles and thousands of spectators to enjoy the evening's atmosphere. The smell of testosterone and octane was definitely in the air. The sheer number in attendance was rather impressive considering it was the same night as Major League Baseball's All-Star game, which was also held in Pittsburgh PA. While the rest of the country was watching the game on their television sets it seemed like all of Pittsburgh was down at the Waterfront enjoying the car cruise. The game may have been just a few miles away, but everyone's thoughts, stories, and memories were reliving the past.
Downtown Pittsburgh Grand Prix Car DisplayThe Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix 'set up shop' on Wednesday afternoon in three prominent downtown Pittsburgh locations prompting many workers to take an extended lunch to 'check-out' the vehicles. Many of the vehicles that were in attendance will be participating, in some fashion, at this year's PVGP. The vehicles assembled at three locations in Pittsburgh, the PPG Place, US Steel Building, and the entrance to Point State Park. The goal was to raise awareness for the weekend's activities and to give on-lookers an opportunity to enjoy the cars and talk with the owners. The locations chosen are some of the most beautiful and strategic locations in all of Pittsburgh. The entrance to Point State Park is also the site where the French built Fort Duquesne back in 1754. It is also the location where Pittsburgh's Allegheny and Monongahela rivers intersect to form the Ohio River. The other two locations, PPG Place and the US Steel Building, provided some of the nicest real-estate around, with open courtyards and scenic skyscrapers.
Bossa Nova RoarsLocated on 7th street in downtown Pittsburgh is a trendy and hip bar/restaurant named Bossa Nova that is renowned for its tapas, exotic cocktails, and martinis. It features a unique space with a cozy lounge, dramatic bar, and an eclectic blend of music, art and sculpture. It is located on the edge of the cultural district and tends to attract young, up-and-coming professionals. Bordered by the Roberto Clemente bridge with views of PNC Park, this location and atmosphere was perfect to entice the potential next-generation of high-end exotic vehicle owners and to stir enthusiasm for the weekend's Vintage Grand Prix. On Wednesday evening, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, enthusiasts, and general public were invited to an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and road-racing masterpieces. On display were an impressive array of mostly British automobiles that included marques such as Turner, Lotus, Lola, Rolls-Royce, and Aston Martin. The small and lightweight Elva's, Lotus's, Lola's, and Turners featured engines that were equally as compact and lightweight, mostly in the 800-1500cc range. Sitting directly behind these machines was another compact vehicle but one built by the legendary Carroll Shelby, the Shelby Cobra. It was equipped with an eight-cylinder engine which not only makes it a pleasure to drive but also a beast to control.
Walnut Street Invitational Car Show in ShadysideNestled just a few miles east of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is the quaint and cozy neighborhood of Shadyside. Many individuals reside in its beautiful Victorian houses. Shops such as Coach, Williams-Sonoma, and Prantl's Bakery can be found on Ellsworth Avenue or Walnut Street. Ellsworth Avenue features many locally owned stores while Walnut Street has many national chains such as JCrew and the Gap. On Monday, July 10th from five until nine, Walnut Street was closed-off to regular traffic to make room for the 100-plus classic and memorable automobiles which had been carefully selected and invited to this event. Spectators leisurely strolled through the area admiring the cars and doing a little window shopping along the way. This event is one of the many activities that preclude the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. The PVGP has been held in Schenley Park for the past 24 years and is America's largest vintage race and the only one run on city streets. The event honors vintage auto enthusiasts and raises funds to benefit charities including the Autism society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School. To date, more than $1.9 million dollars has been donated to the charities!
17th Annual Concours d'Elegance of the Eastern United StatesA Decade of Delight & Contradictions-the 1930s While shows honoring European automobiles focus on their sleek, exotic designs or racing heritage, this year's Concours d'Elegance of the Eastern United States chose to highlight the American accomplishments of huge horsepower and equally huge engines during the 1930s. The massive V12 and V16 engines that powered large and stately automobiles were this era's crowning achievement and something to be admired. Other American accomplishments known as muscle/performance machines also demanded respect on the showfield. These beasts were much smaller in size but packed an impressive amount of horsepower. Ever since the invention of the automobile in the 1890s, American manufacturers have been trying to one up their competition with increasing horsepower, feeding the need for speed. The manufacturers that relied solely on their abilities to create extravagant and luxurious designs and ignored the necessity to improve their power-plants quickly went the way of the dinosaur. During the 1920's the engine size and capacity greatly improved. Many marques began to offer eight and twelve cylinder options. Cadillac pushed the envelope with their sixteen cylinder engine. Shortly thereafter Marmon introduced their version of the 16-cylinder engine which was hailed as an engineering marvel. Unfortunately, the Great Depression was too much for the company and they were forced to close their doors and cease production.
Le Belle Macchine d'ItaliaLe Belle Macchine d'Italia Le Belle Macchine d'Italia is the largest 3 day Italian automotive event in North America. This year marked the 20th annual gathering of owners of Italian cars taking place in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Eastern Pennsylvania. The vehicles are distinguished and admired for their beauty and their performance. The marques and their classic and modern vehicles in attendence are some of the fastest sports cars in the world - proven by their dominance on many racing circuits including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Concours d'Elegance at Ault ParkAult Park Concours d'Elegance Overview Each year we try to travel as many times as we can to various Concours d'Elegances, because they always offer a diverse and interesting selection of vehicles. The 2006 Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance was no exception. This was our first time covering this annual show, but not the first time for Concept Carz.
STPR - Susquehannock Trail Performance RallyThe 2006 STPR - Racing the Weather Another year, another successful STPR gone by. With our Nikons and rain gear in hand, ConceptCarz.com made another trip to the Grand Canyon countryside to continue its annual Rally-America, STPR coverage. Every year, seems like we always have to compete against the weather. Sometimes we luck out and unfortunately sometimes we don't. This year mimicked last year, with a lot of rain leading up to the start, but a welcoming sun peaked through to provide for a tolerable morning, noon, and night stage spectating.
Carlisle All-Ford NationalsThe weather was perfect for this years Carlisle's All-Ford Nationals; a sunny day with a cool breeze and a few clouds (and rain threatening - but it mostly held off). The All-Ford Nationals paid tribute to many wonderful creations made by the Ford Motor Car Company, including the recognition of the 40th Anniversary of the Ford Bronco. Celebrities were on hand to greet the visitors, sign a few autographs, and re-live their Motown Motoring experiences. Ford brought a few of their latest concept creations to much delight of many onlookers. The comparison of old-versus-new was a popular topic and the selection of vehicles Ford decided to bring were excellent choices. The Shelby Mustang GT 500 and the Ford Bronco Concept both borrow many of their design cues from their highly successful siblings. The new concepts are sure to gain the respect and admiration of the younger generations, just as the vehicles of the yesteryears had enthralled prior generations. Carlisle's All-Ford Nationals was held during the early part of June, 2006. This show is action-packed from beginning to end, with something for everyone in the family. TV personality Stacey David, star of the popular 'Trucks' show was on-hand, along with the Bronco he restored on the show. His visit is part of the All-Ford Nationals Celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the Ford Bronco. Drag racing legend Hubert (the 'Georgia Shaker') Platt was also at the show meeting his many fans. Some of the highlights of the show were the 1966-67 427 Fairlanes and Comets. Also present were some of the latest in concept vehicles from the Ford Motor Company. This event marked the first-ever reunion between drag racing legend Al Eckstrand, the 429 Boss Mustang named 'The Lawman' that he toured in Vietnam, the current owner of The Lawman, Bill Goldberg, and Ford's Advanced Product Creation and SVT Director, Hau Thai-Tang. As a young lad in Vietnam in 1970, Hau Thai-Tang first saw The Lawman when Al Eckstrand took it to Vietnam as part of a 'Good-will Tour.' Hau Thai-Tang was so impressed with the Mustang that he vowed if he ever had the opportunity, he would like to work at Ford Motor Company someday. He is now in charge of development of the Mustang program at Ford.
Carlisle Performance & StyleThe Carlisle Performance & Style event introduces the latest in customization, tuning and in-car entertainment (ICE) trends to enthusiasts of all ages. On display are show quality compacts, modified trucks, SUVs and high-end luxury sedans, awesome tuner cars, resto-mod muscle cars, sleek sport bikes and much more. The latest trend in the automotive hobby industry is modifying stock luxury sedans (like a Mercedes CL55) or high-end SUVs (maybe a Lincoln Navigator, a Range Rover or a Cadillac Escalade). Even Old School '60s rides like Impalas or Buick Regals are likely targets for these new alterations. The customizations can be anything from a pair of oversized custom wheels, tires and trim, to a total interior makeover, which includes ICE (in-car entertainment), maybe upgrading to a superior sound system to adding several TV monitors in the headrests with DVD input. These modified upgrades can range in price from a few hundred dollars for a rim or wheel to a total ride renovation of $50,000 or more. 'Our inaugural show is not just new to Carlisle Events, but is in fact a new market segment taking the automotive-hobbyist marketplace by storm,' John Detrick, Carlisle Events CEO. 'Everywhere I look, I'm seeing aftermarket alterations being made to cars.
NYC Auto Show Bentley DisplayThere was a surprise waiting for the attendees on the second day of the media preview at the New York Auto Show. In the main lobby were a handful of Bugatti's dating from 1927 to 2006 and bodied by some of the most famous coachbuilders of their day. The 1927 Bentley Tourer is thought to be the only surviving Harrington-bodied Bentley 3-Liter in existence today. The 1929 Bentley Speed Six convertible body is modeled on a design by the famous Belgian coachbuilders Vanden Plans. The 1936 Bentley 4.25 Drophead Coupe is one of only 13 DHC's created by coachbuilder James Young. This car is one of two similar designs, the other built for the famous racing driver Prince Bira of Thailand. The 1939 Bentley Mark V Saoutchik is the only convertible Mark V, and in August 1939, it was originally intended for the sister of King Farouk of Egypt, but at the outbreak of World War II, the chassis was hidden in France. In 1940, the chassis was fitted with a body by the French firm Carrossier Saoutchik and completed within two months of the German invasion. The 1948 Bentley Mark VI was bodied by Garber Carrosserie in Zurich, Switzerland. It has remained a one-off with specially designed safety glass which refracts light to avoid glare. It has been a winner at both the Pebble Beach and Meadowbrook Concours events.
Crawford Auto-Aviation MuseumOver a hundred years ago, the automobile was slowly evolving as the primary means of transportation. Each vehicle was experimentation in design, feasibility, practicality, functionality, and ability. Roads were being built that could safely accommodate these rapidly evolving masterpieces. Steam, petroleum, and electricity were the primary sources of power. Fueling stations began springing up throughout the country. Racing became one of the most effective means of advertisement and a way to prove a vehicles speed and durability. Motorized carriages turned into automobiles. Custom built vehicles faded out as the faster and more cost-effective assembly line pieced together the automobile. During the early 1900s, there were hundreds of automobile manufacturers all producing vehicles in low numbers, many with less than 50 units per year. Their interpretation of what a vehicle 'should be' varied. The placement of the engine, the size of the wheelbase, and the overall build of the coachwork were just a few of the items that fluctuated from year-to-year, and marque-to-marque. Enough cannot be said about the excellence, staff, vehicles, and dedication of the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum. A few years ago a television show proclaimed that 'Cleveland Rocks!' One visit to the Crawford will make anyone a believer. The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum is home to over 80 automobiles, motorcycles, and airplanes; many of the vehicles are pre-WWI. To see the evolution of the automobile from the late 1890's to the present is truly impressive. Seeing vehicles that used tiller steering wheel and large wooden wheels is a rarity and the Crawford has amassed a wide collection with these features. The city of Cleveland has a very impressive history in the production of automobiles and the Crawford has done a fantastic job at recreating the history and preserving the memories. There were over 80 automotive models that originated in the Cleveland area between 1898 and 1931. Alexander Winton of Cleveland began producing automobiles in 1898. It has been said that by 1903 he was the largest automotive producer in the world. His specialty built Winton Bullet racers would go on to define new speed records and continued to push the envelope.
RM Auctions at Amelia IslandVintage Motor Cars at Amelia Island RM Auctions was invited to participate in the weekend activities of this years Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. They demonstrated their excellence and passion for automobiles by assembling an elite group of cars from many different walks of life, capable of satisfying the tastes of any automotive enthusiast. The cars were displayed Friday and Saturday with the Auction beginning at 11:30 am on Saturday morning. These wonderful works of art were basking in the Florida sun just feet away from the sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. The Amelia Island Courtyard was transformed into a museum of automobiles and racing history. In the center of the collection was a tent that housed about 30 or 40 vehicles and offering the onlookers a break from the warmth of the sun. The Auction The Auction began at 11:30 AM and lasted well into the evening hours. The over one-hundred vehicles were each carefully displayed in the center of the stage, each in their own turn, while onlookers bid on the vehicle. Some were pushed onto the stage while others drove under their own power. The Buick Regal NASCAR stock car accidentally tore up the carpet when the driver gave it the slightest amount of throttle, awakening the 656 horsepower engine and causing the racing slick tires to spin at a high rate of speed. There were two holes in the carpet followed by a long patch of rubber. Although it was done on accident it was something that everyone enjoyed. At the close of the auction nearly all of the vehicles had found a new home. With less than 2% of the vehicles unsold it is understandable why RM Auctions has become so popular. The auction house did a fantastic job at keeping the onlookers entertained and comfortable while the friendly bidding must have comforted the sellers, knowing that their lifelong treasures were admired by many and well worth the years of ownership.
Amelia Island Concours d'EleganceThe second weekend in March was home to the 11th annual Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, held at the Ritz-Carlton and on the Golf Club of Amelia Island. It proved to be nothing less than spectacular, displaying unique, rarely seen, unusual, and historic automobiles. The weather was wonderful; the field of cars were evidence of the hard work and dedication done by the volunteers, committee members, participants, enthusiasts, and everyone who had a role in making this show one of the greatest automotive events in the United States. The Concours benefits the Community Hospice of Northern Florida, donating over 1.4 million since the Concours inception. Parking for the 18,000+ spectators was located about 2 miles away at an airfield. Luxurious, air conditioned bus transportation ran non-stop, providing door-to-door service. The Amelia Island Concours has a strong appreciation for racing and its history, with each year honoring a racing legend, and show-casing the racing cars of that individual. This year it was three time Indy 500 Winner Johnny Rutherford who was chosen as honoree; prior year honoree's have included Sir Stirling Moss, Phil Hill, Hurley Haywood, Carroll Shelby, Brian Redman, John Surtees, Dan Gurney, Jim Hall, Bobby Unser, and Bobby Allison. The cars of Johnny Rutherford were on display, paying tribute to a racing legend that has multiple accomplishments and records.
Palm Beach Cavallino ClassicThe Cavallino Classic is the opening round for the Shell Ferrari and Maserati Historic Challenge which has traditionally housed the largest gird of the series. The vehicles are organized into two groups, drum and disc. The faster cars were assigned to the GT class while the 'slower' were put into the Sport class. To compete in the Series, the vehicles have to be built for racing and authentic Ferrari or Maserati. Maserati's were permitted because of the recent 'merger' of the two companies. Pre-war Alfa Romeos that were raced by Scuderia Ferrari were permitted. There were four track days at Moroso Motorsport Track, with the first two days being closed to the public. The final day was the official race while the other days were used for practice and testing. One of the many highlights was a Ferrari FXX that saw some track time during one of the practice sessions. A pair of Ferrari 250 TestaRossas were the fastest in the Drum Brake Group. The Ferrari 250TR was produced from 1957 through 1958 during which only 19 examples were created. The 'pontoon' fender body was designed by Scaglietti and the power was supplied through a Colombo 12-cylinder engine mounted at a sixty-degree angle and outfitted with six Weber 38 DCN carburetors. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. With 300 horsepower, the 800 kg vehicle was able to achieve a 168 mph top speed. From 1958 through 1961, the 250 TR was entered in 19 championship races where they emerged victorious ten times.
'Our Mission is to celebrate and enhance the rich heritage of motorsports and its cultural contributions to our lives.'
The museum, dedicated to all types of racing, features over 35+ race cars on display. Relive racing's greatest moments in the Goodyear Mini-Theater now featuring 'NASCAR's Greatest Drivers' narrated by Dr. Jerry Punch, filmed at the Hall of Fame. You can also simply stroll by the many showcases and displays.
The museum is located in Mooresville, NC at 119 Knob Hill Road.
Palm Beach Cavallino Classic XV ConcoursThe Breakers hotel located in West Palm Beach plays host one day a year to the premiere Ferrari Concours in the United States. Some of the oldest, newest, greatest, and rarest Ferrari's are parked on the beautifully manicured golf course lawn. The cars roaring engines trumpet their arrival as they are arranged on the lawn throughout the early part of the morning. The occasional police siren is an indication of an overeager Ferrari motorist late for the show. The Cavallino Classic is just one of the events that transpired during the week. Activities begin a few days prior with track days at Moroso Motorsports, including the first round of the Historic Challenge. Other activities include a driving and culinary tour of Palm Beach, a jetport reception, dinners, and an art show. The final event being the concours. The following day, the Ferraris are invited to attend the Palm Beach Concours d'Elegance held only a few short miles away. This year was special; the one that should not have been missed. Located on the Croquet Lawn were the previous winners from the past fifteen years of the Cavallino Classis. At the entrance to the lawn was a 166 Spyder Corsa chassis number 004C, only the second Corsa to be constructed. More importantly, it is believed to be the fourth Ferrari ever created. Out of the eight remaining Spyder Corsas that have survived to this date, chassis numbers 004C and 016I are still clothed in their original bodies. Meaning they have been properly and painstakingly preserved rather then undergoing any restoration. Since it has retained its original chassis and body, many Historians refer to 004C as the oldest complete Ferrari still in existence.
Palm Beach International Concours d'EleganceThe grounds of the Palm Beach Polo Club may not be as elegant as the Palm Beach or Amelia Island Golf Course, but the vehicles and activities rival the greatest of concourses. In its second year, the show has made great strides and is quickly becoming a premiere concourse. Event Chairman Andrew Carduner invited the Gooding & Company to perform an auction on the day of the concours, thus heightening the experience and introducing an additional 55 vehicles to the concours. 'After the success of last year's inaugural event, we have had an overwhelming response from collectors who want to participate in this year's show,' said Andrew Carduner, the event organizer. 'The cars will once again be the stars at the Palm Beach International Concours, and spectators and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see some of the world's rarest and most famous automobiles in a setting that allows the cars the space their dignity and commanding presence deserves.' In comparison to other concours, the Palm Beach event is unique in many ways. The show field provided ample parking for the show cars, allowing plenty of room for spectators to walk and admire. Spectator parking was in abundance and walking distance.
Philadelphia International Auto ShowTuner Salon After an amazing amount of positive feedback, the Philadelphia International Auto Show rolled out round two of some of the most tricked out and tuned vehicle offerings ever seen! Scion, Mazda, Ford, Lincoln Mercury, Honda, Acura and General Motors will fill 20,000 square feet of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and showcase why owning one of their vehicles can be anything but ordinary! A vehicle should make a statement about who is driving, and these manufacturers are ready to deliver a truly unique look into how their product can be modified to fit your personality and lifestyle. DUB Magazine once again brought out its Celebrity Vehicle Showcase. This year, featured vehicles include a completely off-the-wall Mercedes SL 55 owned by Bernard Hopkins . And Philly fans will definitely not want to miss a Lamborghini, painted Laker's Gold and formerly owned by PA native Kobe Bryant. Love him or hate him, the guy knows how to ride in style! Concours Enthusiasm
Gooding & Company Auction: Palm BeachWhen the gavel struck the podium closing the sale of the 1938 Talbot-Lago T150 C SS Teardrop Coupe at the inaugural Gooding & Company auction in Palm Beaches, more than 700 people in the audience witnessed a moment in history. The Teardrop Talbot-Lago sold for $3.905 million including buyers premium (the 'hammer price' being $3.55 million) – a world record sale for a Talbot-Lago Teardrop Coupe. The vehicle was the star among 55 rare automobiles at the auction, which followed the second annual Palm Beach International Concours d'Elegance on Sunday, January 22 at the Palm Beach Polo and Country Club. One of the rarest cars in the world, this 1938 Talbot-Lago has never been shown before to the public. It's one of the few automobiles ever built to blend a combination of concours and competition heritage. This car survived 50 years in its original, undamaged condition before a thorough restoration completed in 2002. 'To set a world record during our first year in Palm Beach is remarkable,' said David Gooding, President of Gooding & Company. 'The Talbot-Lago is just one indication of the high caliber of cars that were offered here, and we are already planning next year's impressive lineup!' Initial data indicates that 27 cars were sold totaling nearly $7 million. They included a wide selection of the finest show, touring and racing cars.
Pittsburgh World of WheelsAll shows held throughout the U.S. and Canada – AutoRama, World of Wheels, Cavalcade of Customs – are sanctioned by the International Show Car Association (ISCA,) and exhibitors' vehicles are assigned categories and professionally judged based on ISCA rules. Points are awarded on the 'A' rating based on the size of each show. Cash and awards are distributed to various category and special award winners at each event. This event was held in Pittsburgh PA at the David Lawrence Convention Center. The David L. Lawrence Convention Center is a significant symbol of the 'new' Pittsburgh Region. As Pittsburgh continues to revolutionize into a regional destination place, this landmark building has become the cornerstone of the transformation. On the cutting edge of design, this innovative structure connects the urban city to the waterfront overlooking the Allegheny River. Thanks to Kyle McMullen for covering this event.
Barrett-Jackson - Scottsdale 2006The 35th Anniversary Barrett-Jackson 'World's Greatest Collector Car Event' kicked off to a resounding success as over 25,000 people packed the auction grounds during the event's first ever Family Day on January 15, 2006. The auction ran from January 17 through January 22, 2006, at WestWorld in Scottsdale. 'This is an affirmation that the hobby is still gaining enormous popularity just like we had suspected,' commented Craig Jackson, president and CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. '25,000 enthusiasts crowded WestWorld, which meant that it's not only the auction, but the vehicles themselves that people flock to see. This proves Barrett-Jackson is truly the automotive lifestyle event.' Some of the Many Highlights 33 extraordinary Hemi muscle cars including stars like a 1967 Dodge Coronet R/T and one of the rarest muscle cars in the world; a 1970 Hemi Cuda convertible. 'The matching numbers 1970 Plymouth Cuda convertible comes complete with the original 426 c.i.d. Hemi, an automatic transmission and 4:10 gears. We're exceptionally proud of the 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda convertible that is one of only 14 built,' stated Craig Jackson, president of The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. 'It would be the gem of any collector's stable. Clad in the bright ‘High Impact Vitamin C' color, it is a dazzling car. We've also attracted other significant Mopar such as Cuda coupes and a one of only two Dodge Hemi Coronet R/T's in the world. If you like Mopars, this is the year to be at Barrett-Jackson.'
