German Cars
including also swedish cars
1928-(1935) Mercedes-Benz in Sylvia Scarlett
2011 SOLD for $ 3.74M by Gooding
When they were not busy on movies, the stars of Hollywood were looking for the best tips to keep the attention on them. The car could be a good excuse.
In 1932, Zeppo Marx and Phil Berg had a challenge to $ 10,000 on a dry lake in East Los Angeles: who has the fastest car? This race managed for both sport and news has been won by the Duesenberg Model J of the agent of Clark Gable and Gary Cooper against the Mercedes-Benz of the youngest of the Marx Brothers.
This Mercedes is a 680 S made in 1928 and bodyworked as a Boattail Speedster by Murphy, the supplier of the Hollywood stars. Designed for speed and pleasure, it has a rear hood shaped like an overturned canoe, more effective for speed than for elegance. It was also featured in 1935 in the movie Sylvia Scarlett starring Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant.
The car has never left California and is very close to its original condition. It was sold for $ 3.74M by Gooding on 14-15 August, 2011, lot 127.
In 1932, Zeppo Marx and Phil Berg had a challenge to $ 10,000 on a dry lake in East Los Angeles: who has the fastest car? This race managed for both sport and news has been won by the Duesenberg Model J of the agent of Clark Gable and Gary Cooper against the Mercedes-Benz of the youngest of the Marx Brothers.
This Mercedes is a 680 S made in 1928 and bodyworked as a Boattail Speedster by Murphy, the supplier of the Hollywood stars. Designed for speed and pleasure, it has a rear hood shaped like an overturned canoe, more effective for speed than for elegance. It was also featured in 1935 in the movie Sylvia Scarlett starring Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant.
The car has never left California and is very close to its original condition. It was sold for $ 3.74M by Gooding on 14-15 August, 2011, lot 127.
1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S 36/220 by Cadogan
2012 SOLD for £ 2.8M by Bonhams
In 1928, an English officer fan of racing bought a 680S 36/220 chassis and had it bodyworked as an Open Tourer by Cadogan in London. His detailed notes written in a first test at Brooklands have been preserved: it holds the track!
More attracted by the technique than by social usage, the first owner used it sparingly. His son was less discreet but forsook it quickly. Owned up to now in the same family, it remained in its garage since 1952. Its mileage is still lesser than 8,500 miles (13,700 km) on the odometer.
This time capsule was sold for £ 2.8M from a lower estimate of £ 1.5M by Bonhams on September 15, 2012, lot 108.
More attracted by the technique than by social usage, the first owner used it sparingly. His son was less discreet but forsook it quickly. Owned up to now in the same family, it remained in its garage since 1952. Its mileage is still lesser than 8,500 miles (13,700 km) on the odometer.
This time capsule was sold for £ 2.8M from a lower estimate of £ 1.5M by Bonhams on September 15, 2012, lot 108.
1928 the yellow mercedes
2017 unsold
When Daimler and Benz merged in 1926, Daimler was the dominant partner in a 65-35 ratio. Daimler brings the Mercedes brand immediately changed to Mercedes-Benz, the Sindelfingen factory and its experience in sports chassis equipped with supercharged engines.
Around Ferdinand Porsche the engineers are working to improve the high-end with the Mercedes-Benz Model K and Typ S. The overall size of the chassis is similar but the Typ S results from an innovative mechanical study. Rebalancing masses and stiffness highly improves the performance.
The lowering of the mechanics brings a promising elegance to the bodies built on the Typ S by Daimler Benz or by independent workshops with a very long front hood. The three large prominent pipes on the right side are a curiosity that could symbolize some guarantee on the cooling.
The Typ S is very robust and many cars survived from the 146 built in 1927 and 1928. The standardized name in the Mercedes-Benz range is 26/120/180. Its evolution with a slight increase in engine volume is the Typ SS.
Here are some prices including premium for the 26/120/180. From 1927 : a Sportwagen coachworked in Sindelfingen, sold for $ 5M by Gooding in August 2011. From 1928 : a Sports tourer coachworked by Erdmann and Rossi, sold for $ 4.8M by Bonhams in January 2017 and an aggressive Boattail speedster coachworked by Murphy, sold for $ 3.74M by Gooding in August 2010.
On August 19 at Pebble Beach, Gooding is selling a 26/120/180 from 1928 coachworked in Sports tourer by Gläser, lot 154 estimated $ 5M. Here is the link to the press release (shared with two other pre-war beauties).
This car in very good operating condition has been the joy since 1964 of its recently deceased owner. Painted in bright yellow, it did not go unnoticed in its rides on the narrow roads of his countryside. The roar of its engine was also appreciated, especially when the supercharger was triggering. Please watch the videoshared by Gooding.
Around Ferdinand Porsche the engineers are working to improve the high-end with the Mercedes-Benz Model K and Typ S. The overall size of the chassis is similar but the Typ S results from an innovative mechanical study. Rebalancing masses and stiffness highly improves the performance.
The lowering of the mechanics brings a promising elegance to the bodies built on the Typ S by Daimler Benz or by independent workshops with a very long front hood. The three large prominent pipes on the right side are a curiosity that could symbolize some guarantee on the cooling.
The Typ S is very robust and many cars survived from the 146 built in 1927 and 1928. The standardized name in the Mercedes-Benz range is 26/120/180. Its evolution with a slight increase in engine volume is the Typ SS.
Here are some prices including premium for the 26/120/180. From 1927 : a Sportwagen coachworked in Sindelfingen, sold for $ 5M by Gooding in August 2011. From 1928 : a Sports tourer coachworked by Erdmann and Rossi, sold for $ 4.8M by Bonhams in January 2017 and an aggressive Boattail speedster coachworked by Murphy, sold for $ 3.74M by Gooding in August 2010.
On August 19 at Pebble Beach, Gooding is selling a 26/120/180 from 1928 coachworked in Sports tourer by Gläser, lot 154 estimated $ 5M. Here is the link to the press release (shared with two other pre-war beauties).
This car in very good operating condition has been the joy since 1964 of its recently deceased owner. Painted in bright yellow, it did not go unnoticed in its rides on the narrow roads of his countryside. The roar of its engine was also appreciated, especially when the supercharger was triggering. Please watch the videoshared by Gooding.
1929 The Mercedes-Benz Super Sport
2020 UNSOLD
After the merger of Daimler and Benz, Ferdinand Porsche introduces in 1927 the range of Mercedes-Benz Typ S sports cars with supercharged engines. The first models are the S400 (4 liters) and S630 (6.3 liters). The S680 (6.8 liters) is developed at the end of the same year.
Mercedes-Benz is now mastering the technology that will allow it to win the races. In 1928 the SSK, internal code W06, is fitted with a 7.1 liter engine. Its top speed is 190 km/h, an exceptional performance at that time.
The W06 is also available for the road, under the reference 710 SS 27/140/200. SS, meaning Super Sport, is a new designation to identify this model. The three numbers which follow indicate in hp the fiscal power and the real power without and with the compressor.
Mercedes-Benz is also targeting export. A rolling chassis assembled in 1929 is sent to New York. The chassis is partially chromed, probably before being exhibited on the brand's stand at the New York show in 1930.
This chassis then comes temporarily to France to receive a four-door Sport Tourer bodywork by Fernandez et Darrin. Working in Paris for an American clientele, Darrin is a specialist in Hispano-Suiza and Duesenberg. His grand touring model is a body without footboard which accentuates the sporty look of the vehicle.
This top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz from the Ferdinand Porsche period is estimated € 6M for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 7, lot 45. Its authenticity is certified by Mercedes-Benz Klassik.
Please watch the video shared by Artcurial.
Mercedes-Benz is now mastering the technology that will allow it to win the races. In 1928 the SSK, internal code W06, is fitted with a 7.1 liter engine. Its top speed is 190 km/h, an exceptional performance at that time.
The W06 is also available for the road, under the reference 710 SS 27/140/200. SS, meaning Super Sport, is a new designation to identify this model. The three numbers which follow indicate in hp the fiscal power and the real power without and with the compressor.
Mercedes-Benz is also targeting export. A rolling chassis assembled in 1929 is sent to New York. The chassis is partially chromed, probably before being exhibited on the brand's stand at the New York show in 1930.
This chassis then comes temporarily to France to receive a four-door Sport Tourer bodywork by Fernandez et Darrin. Working in Paris for an American clientele, Darrin is a specialist in Hispano-Suiza and Duesenberg. His grand touring model is a body without footboard which accentuates the sporty look of the vehicle.
This top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz from the Ferdinand Porsche period is estimated € 6M for sale by Artcurial in Paris on February 7, lot 45. Its authenticity is certified by Mercedes-Benz Klassik.
Please watch the video shared by Artcurial.
#AUCTIONTODAY Stay tuned for our live-tweet coverage of Artcurial Motorcars' auction at @RetromobileFR today at 2 pm! #Retromobile
— ARTCURIAL (@Artcurial) February 7, 2020
Follow the Official Sale live on Youtube □https://t.co/GwdtUplX74 pic.twitter.com/zr4PjbVmys
1933 the zeppelin cabriolet
2015 unsold
Wilhelm Maybach was a brilliant engineer. Collaborator of Daimler for the automotive, he then created the Maybach company for providing to Zeppelin the engines of the dirigibles throughout the great industrial adventure of the luxury aeronautical travel.
Maybach also produced high-end automobiles. The Maybach DS-7 (7 liters) and DS-8 (8 liters) got an amazing maneuverability despite their huge weight thanks to the development by Karl Maybach of an 8 speed forward gearbox.
The DS-8, from 1930, took the name of Zeppelin by reference to the remarkable reliability of the airship engines. With its 5.5 m long, this model will have a great career in the market for state cars and diplomatic gifts.
A sumptuously equipped seven seat limousine made in 1933 was presented by the Third Reich to a Maharajah who prudently hid it when he went to support the Allied forces.
In 2002, that car belonged to one of the best specialists of the brand who decided to replace the cumbersome limousine by a cabriolet on an unused drawing by Hermann Spohn, the company which was preferred by Maybach to equip their chassis.
That work executed by Reifen-Wagner lasted more than three years. A two-door convertible body on such a long car generates a dream vehicle, a peak of the late 1930s that had not been realized in its time. The Maybach Zeppelin convertible is estimated DKK 20M, for sale by Bonhams on September 26 in the castle of its current owner in Jutland, lot 48.
This is not a single case. On August 12, 2012, RM Auctions sold for DKK 10.2M including premium a Maybach Zeppelin DS-8. Its original body had been lost and the car had been recently equipped as a roadster in the style of Erdmann & Rossi.
Maybach also produced high-end automobiles. The Maybach DS-7 (7 liters) and DS-8 (8 liters) got an amazing maneuverability despite their huge weight thanks to the development by Karl Maybach of an 8 speed forward gearbox.
The DS-8, from 1930, took the name of Zeppelin by reference to the remarkable reliability of the airship engines. With its 5.5 m long, this model will have a great career in the market for state cars and diplomatic gifts.
A sumptuously equipped seven seat limousine made in 1933 was presented by the Third Reich to a Maharajah who prudently hid it when he went to support the Allied forces.
In 2002, that car belonged to one of the best specialists of the brand who decided to replace the cumbersome limousine by a cabriolet on an unused drawing by Hermann Spohn, the company which was preferred by Maybach to equip their chassis.
That work executed by Reifen-Wagner lasted more than three years. A two-door convertible body on such a long car generates a dream vehicle, a peak of the late 1930s that had not been realized in its time. The Maybach Zeppelin convertible is estimated DKK 20M, for sale by Bonhams on September 26 in the castle of its current owner in Jutland, lot 48.
This is not a single case. On August 12, 2012, RM Auctions sold for DKK 10.2M including premium a Maybach Zeppelin DS-8. Its original body had been lost and the car had been recently equipped as a roadster in the style of Erdmann & Rossi.
1935 a chassis for saoutchik
2016 unsold
In the heyday of the Parisian Art Déco some wealthy Americans like to combine French elegance and German efficiency. A Mercedes-Benz 680S coachworked as a torpedo in 1928 by Jacques Saoutchik was sold for $ 8.3 million including premium by RM Auctions on August 17, 2013.
Carrosserie Saoutchik is renowned for the luxurious finish of its cars and for its reentrant mechanisms of roofs, doors and windows. Their business anticipates their competitor Figoni et Falaschi created in 1935.
The major automotive brands of the 1930s are increasingly interested in controlling the bodies while continuing to also sell bare chassis. For the model 380 introduced in 1933, Mercedes-Benz offers no less than six standard body types including three convertibles.
Two Americans visit the Paris Auto Show in October 1935 in search not of the best car but of the best chassis. One of them selects a Rolls-Royce while his friend purchases a superb 500K chassis prepared with a special care by Mercedes-Benz for this Salon.
The 500K was immediately entrusted to Saoutchik. The client demanded a masterpiece and Saoutchik did not disappoint him. In preparing his cabriolet, he stated that this handsome car will still be equally admired half a century later.
This cabriolet is also considered as a marvel by his next owners who take the highest care of it. Remaining complete at a high level of authenticity despite a few restorations, it is estimated € 6M for sale by Bonhams on March 19 in the premises of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, lot 145.
Carrosserie Saoutchik is renowned for the luxurious finish of its cars and for its reentrant mechanisms of roofs, doors and windows. Their business anticipates their competitor Figoni et Falaschi created in 1935.
The major automotive brands of the 1930s are increasingly interested in controlling the bodies while continuing to also sell bare chassis. For the model 380 introduced in 1933, Mercedes-Benz offers no less than six standard body types including three convertibles.
Two Americans visit the Paris Auto Show in October 1935 in search not of the best car but of the best chassis. One of them selects a Rolls-Royce while his friend purchases a superb 500K chassis prepared with a special care by Mercedes-Benz for this Salon.
The 500K was immediately entrusted to Saoutchik. The client demanded a masterpiece and Saoutchik did not disappoint him. In preparing his cabriolet, he stated that this handsome car will still be equally admired half a century later.
This cabriolet is also considered as a marvel by his next owners who take the highest care of it. Remaining complete at a high level of authenticity despite a few restorations, it is estimated € 6M for sale by Bonhams on March 19 in the premises of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, lot 145.
1938 A Horch that wished to look like a Mercedes
2008 SOLD 1.1 M£ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
On August 9, I wrote in a preview: "Among the cars for sale by RM Auctions in London on October 29 in association with Sotheby's, retain a Horch 853 of 1938 (£ 1.5 million)."
This German luxury cabriolet was characterized by an innovative chassis and an independent rear suspension. The same press release announces that there are only three surviving cars of this design, on a total of six for that model.
The surprise came from the second press release published on the same page on September 22 to give further details on the sale, which is a common practice of RM Auctions. Here, the estimated price of the Horch car is no more indicated, but must be requested at the auction house!
The catalog shows ten photos of the car at number 246. We see the Auto Union logo, a group to which the Horch brand belonged. It is in this catalog that I checked the argument that can push up the price beyond the initial estimate. Our Horch 853 Special Roadster looks much like the legendary Mercedes Benz 540 K Roadster, which is valued around 4 million pounds.
Against it, it has undergone restorations that are serious, but not of the highest quality.
POST SALE COMMENT
It remained far from Mercedes, but we have to remember that its condition was far from perfect. Our beautiful Horch was sold £ 1.1 million including expenses.
Note a result on a F1 car that I had not noticed before sale: a 1997 McLaren sold £ 2.5 million including expenses on an estimate of £ 1.1 million. For such a recent car, it is an excellent result.
On August 9, I wrote in a preview: "Among the cars for sale by RM Auctions in London on October 29 in association with Sotheby's, retain a Horch 853 of 1938 (£ 1.5 million)."
This German luxury cabriolet was characterized by an innovative chassis and an independent rear suspension. The same press release announces that there are only three surviving cars of this design, on a total of six for that model.
The surprise came from the second press release published on the same page on September 22 to give further details on the sale, which is a common practice of RM Auctions. Here, the estimated price of the Horch car is no more indicated, but must be requested at the auction house!
The catalog shows ten photos of the car at number 246. We see the Auto Union logo, a group to which the Horch brand belonged. It is in this catalog that I checked the argument that can push up the price beyond the initial estimate. Our Horch 853 Special Roadster looks much like the legendary Mercedes Benz 540 K Roadster, which is valued around 4 million pounds.
Against it, it has undergone restorations that are serious, but not of the highest quality.
POST SALE COMMENT
It remained far from Mercedes, but we have to remember that its condition was far from perfect. Our beautiful Horch was sold £ 1.1 million including expenses.
Note a result on a F1 car that I had not noticed before sale: a 1997 McLaren sold £ 2.5 million including expenses on an estimate of £ 1.1 million. For such a recent car, it is an excellent result.
1938 The Complicated Fate of a Auto-Union
2009 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The Grand Prix cars are symbols of the most prestigious technologies. This is not new: when they created a "race" to supremacy between Mercedes-Benz and Auto Union, the German Third Reich officials wanted to demonstrate their power ahead of Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Bugatti, Delahaye and Talbot.
Then came the war, and the equipment of Auto Union was segregated by the Soviets. The cars were dismantled for the purpose of reengineering. They could only be used with a specially designed fuel: one of them, which still had some in its tank, was tested by the Soviets.
A copy was reconstituted over the chassis 19, which seems to be the only one to have been preserved intact. The rest of it is original, but from other copies.
Thus, this curiosity is the only witness, although disparate, of a model which was prestigious in 1938 and 1939.Bonhams and Butterfields offers this car on sale on August 14 at Quail Lodge, Carmel, California.
If the historical and political interest is felt stronger than the usual quest for original condition, it may perhaps reach its announced estimate: $ 8 million.
The Grand Prix cars are symbols of the most prestigious technologies. This is not new: when they created a "race" to supremacy between Mercedes-Benz and Auto Union, the German Third Reich officials wanted to demonstrate their power ahead of Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Bugatti, Delahaye and Talbot.
Then came the war, and the equipment of Auto Union was segregated by the Soviets. The cars were dismantled for the purpose of reengineering. They could only be used with a specially designed fuel: one of them, which still had some in its tank, was tested by the Soviets.
A copy was reconstituted over the chassis 19, which seems to be the only one to have been preserved intact. The rest of it is original, but from other copies.
Thus, this curiosity is the only witness, although disparate, of a model which was prestigious in 1938 and 1939.Bonhams and Butterfields offers this car on sale on August 14 at Quail Lodge, Carmel, California.
If the historical and political interest is felt stronger than the usual quest for original condition, it may perhaps reach its announced estimate: $ 8 million.
1938 Cabriolets by Mercedes-Benz
2013 UNSOLD
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The cabriolet is the most frequent version of the high end Mercedes-Benz models 500K and 540K, with more than 500 cars from a total of about 750 units. These convertibles were assembled in Sindelfingen, offered in three chassis variants named A, B and C. The A frame is shorter. Targeting the market of sports cars, it is designed as a two-seater.
On September 8 in London, RM Auctions devotes a full auction session to a collection of no less than 74 Mercedes-Benz cars. The star of this incredible set is a 540K Cabriolet A, estimated £ 1.5 M. Here is the link to the catalog.
This car had very well started its career. Made in 1938, it is recent for this model and had been returned to the factoryfor the latest pre-war improvements. Among all the 540K cabriolets, it is one of the closest to the prestigious 540Kroadster.
Then it becomes a liar. Without knowing the details of the transition, it is exhibited by a showman in North American fairs as the "Mercedes of Eva Braun".
It was widely modified at that time, but fortunately its chassis was not damaged. Restored closer to its original configuration, it is now prettily painted in silver fish, the favorite color of Mercedes-Benz at the time of its birth.
The cabriolet is the most frequent version of the high end Mercedes-Benz models 500K and 540K, with more than 500 cars from a total of about 750 units. These convertibles were assembled in Sindelfingen, offered in three chassis variants named A, B and C. The A frame is shorter. Targeting the market of sports cars, it is designed as a two-seater.
On September 8 in London, RM Auctions devotes a full auction session to a collection of no less than 74 Mercedes-Benz cars. The star of this incredible set is a 540K Cabriolet A, estimated £ 1.5 M. Here is the link to the catalog.
This car had very well started its career. Made in 1938, it is recent for this model and had been returned to the factoryfor the latest pre-war improvements. Among all the 540K cabriolets, it is one of the closest to the prestigious 540Kroadster.
Then it becomes a liar. Without knowing the details of the transition, it is exhibited by a showman in North American fairs as the "Mercedes of Eva Braun".
It was widely modified at that time, but fortunately its chassis was not damaged. Restored closer to its original configuration, it is now prettily painted in silver fish, the favorite color of Mercedes-Benz at the time of its birth.
1939 Ferdinand Porsche Father and Son
2019 unsold
In 1931 Ferdinand Porsche and his son Ferdinand also known as Ferry founded the Porsche Konstructionsbüro in Stuttgart to exploit their skills in terms of engines, road and racing cars, aeronautics, motorboats, military systems. They are passionate about technology and not interested in luxury cars.
One of the first projects is the Typ 12, a car for everyone (Auto für Jedermann). The Typ 12 does not succeed, but when Mussolini launches the Fiat 500 Topolino, the Nazi authorities choose Ferdinand Porsche to design an economical family car. The KdF-Wagen is released in 1938. Its manufacturer is the Volkswagenwerk. For Porsche, it is the Typ 60. After the war, it will be known as the Beetle. With 21 million units built without major modification, it is the biggest success in the history of the automobile.
Ferdinand Porsche did not wait to advance his proposals. He suggests equipping the Typ 60 for sport. This project is named Typ 60K10 by Volkswagen, tenth version of the Typ 60. It is for Porsche the Typ 64. Two chassis and three bodies have been identified.
The first Typ 64 is made by Porsche in August 1939. Its immediate promotional purpose is the participation in a race from Berlin to Rome that will be canceled by the war. Its narrow two-seater cockpit aims for efficiency rather than comfort. Its assembly with more than 2,000 rivets is inspired by aviation.
Heavily damaged by a Nazi colonel who had appropriated it, it is repaired in 1940 with the third bodywork. Ferdinand Porsche manages to recover this car that he uses very frequently. After the war, Ferry makes it his personal car.
When the second Typ 64 is sacked in a stupid game by US forces, the first car remains unique. It becomes in 1946 the symbol of the introduction of Porsche as a car brand and Ferry Porsche attributes to it the very first application of the new badge.
This car is in itself a basic link in the history of Porsche father and son. It is unlike any other, although it inspired the Porsche 356, the first commercial model of the brand. Presented with its original engine in a remarkable state of originality by reference to its 1940 configuration, it is in working order.
It is for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 17, lot 362. The May 13 press release announces an estimate in excess of $ 20M. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. The image is shared by Wikimedia, with attribution : Lothar Spurzem [CC BY-SA 2.0 de], via Wikimedia Commons
One of the first projects is the Typ 12, a car for everyone (Auto für Jedermann). The Typ 12 does not succeed, but when Mussolini launches the Fiat 500 Topolino, the Nazi authorities choose Ferdinand Porsche to design an economical family car. The KdF-Wagen is released in 1938. Its manufacturer is the Volkswagenwerk. For Porsche, it is the Typ 60. After the war, it will be known as the Beetle. With 21 million units built without major modification, it is the biggest success in the history of the automobile.
Ferdinand Porsche did not wait to advance his proposals. He suggests equipping the Typ 60 for sport. This project is named Typ 60K10 by Volkswagen, tenth version of the Typ 60. It is for Porsche the Typ 64. Two chassis and three bodies have been identified.
The first Typ 64 is made by Porsche in August 1939. Its immediate promotional purpose is the participation in a race from Berlin to Rome that will be canceled by the war. Its narrow two-seater cockpit aims for efficiency rather than comfort. Its assembly with more than 2,000 rivets is inspired by aviation.
Heavily damaged by a Nazi colonel who had appropriated it, it is repaired in 1940 with the third bodywork. Ferdinand Porsche manages to recover this car that he uses very frequently. After the war, Ferry makes it his personal car.
When the second Typ 64 is sacked in a stupid game by US forces, the first car remains unique. It becomes in 1946 the symbol of the introduction of Porsche as a car brand and Ferry Porsche attributes to it the very first application of the new badge.
This car is in itself a basic link in the history of Porsche father and son. It is unlike any other, although it inspired the Porsche 356, the first commercial model of the brand. Presented with its original engine in a remarkable state of originality by reference to its 1940 configuration, it is in working order.
It is for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 17, lot 362. The May 13 press release announces an estimate in excess of $ 20M. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. The image is shared by Wikimedia, with attribution : Lothar Spurzem [CC BY-SA 2.0 de], via Wikimedia Commons
1939 Mercedes-Benz in the Parade
2018 UNSOLD
The Mercedes-Benz 770 is specially designed for limousines from 1930, with a 3.75 m wheelbase, a 2,700 Kg curb weight and a 7.7-liter engine with eight-cylinder in line. The 770K version is supercharged. It is highly appreciated by Nazi leaders with its Grosser Offener Tourenwagen open bodywork, spectacular in official parades.
The W150 chassis introduced in 1938 offers the ultimate achievement of that range, with the brand's technological advances and the enormous power of its engine. The model reference remains unchanged. Four types of bodywork are offered by Sindelfingen without the possibility of buying a bare chassis. The 770 is intended for heads of state and officials and its price does not appear in the catalog. 88 units of the super Mercedes in W150 chassis are delivered between 1938 and 1944.
Through his chauffeur, Chancellor Hitler ordered in September 1938 one of the first 770K W150 Grosser Offener Tourenwagen, to serve as the fourth parade car for the use of his guests. The car delivered in July 1939 includes reinforced security features such as the bulletproof windshield or the armored rear panel to be raised in case of danger.
This car is used in four important parades including Mussolini's state visit at Munich in June 1940. From 1943 its use by the Nazi regime is not known. Caught by the American forces, it is presented circa 1949 to the Veterans of Foreign Wars who use it during a few years in parades.
This fourth Führer-car will be sold on January 17 in Scottsdale by Worldwide Auctioneers, lot 62.
The W150 chassis introduced in 1938 offers the ultimate achievement of that range, with the brand's technological advances and the enormous power of its engine. The model reference remains unchanged. Four types of bodywork are offered by Sindelfingen without the possibility of buying a bare chassis. The 770 is intended for heads of state and officials and its price does not appear in the catalog. 88 units of the super Mercedes in W150 chassis are delivered between 1938 and 1944.
Through his chauffeur, Chancellor Hitler ordered in September 1938 one of the first 770K W150 Grosser Offener Tourenwagen, to serve as the fourth parade car for the use of his guests. The car delivered in July 1939 includes reinforced security features such as the bulletproof windshield or the armored rear panel to be raised in case of danger.
This car is used in four important parades including Mussolini's state visit at Munich in June 1940. From 1943 its use by the Nazi regime is not known. Caught by the American forces, it is presented circa 1949 to the Veterans of Foreign Wars who use it during a few years in parades.
This fourth Führer-car will be sold on January 17 in Scottsdale by Worldwide Auctioneers, lot 62.
1954 The 300SL Gullwing Coupe
2014 SOLD 2.13 M€ including premium
In 1954, Mercedes-Benz manage in parallel the development of new models for racing and sport.
The 300SL excites the specialists and the public. Its innovations including the gullwing opening are spectacular but customers also welcome its top speed exceeding 240 km/h and its acceleration, stability and comfort.
On all these features, this model is ahead of its competitors. Daimler-Benz was right in launching the production of their new wonder in large quantities : from 1954 to 1957, 1,400 coupes were produced before a come back to a more classical roadster.
The 300SL gullwing coupe is not rare, but the two cars to be sold by Bonhams on July 12 in the premises of the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart are especially interesting.
Lot 26 was in 1954 a demonstration specimen of the Salon de l'Automobile in Paris, co-starring on the Daimler-Benz stand with the W196 formula 1 model. This car was used in 1955 in reconnaissance of road by Stirling Moss and his navigator Denis Jenkinson before their victory in the Mille Miglia with a Mercedes-Benz from another model, a 300SLR. The estimate is not published.
Lot 39 was delivered in 1955. This coupe remained in a condition remarkably close to its original configuration without restoration or damage. It is estimated € 1.2 M.
The high end of the 300SL is a variant built in 29 units whose performance is improved by the use of a light alloy. One of these 300SL Alloy Gullwing cars was sold for $ 4.62 million including premium by Gooding on January 20, 2012.
POST SALE COMMENT
The 1954 gullwing coupe with a Stirling Moss story was sold for € 2.13M including premium.
The 1955 car was sold for € 1.38M including premium.
The 300SL excites the specialists and the public. Its innovations including the gullwing opening are spectacular but customers also welcome its top speed exceeding 240 km/h and its acceleration, stability and comfort.
On all these features, this model is ahead of its competitors. Daimler-Benz was right in launching the production of their new wonder in large quantities : from 1954 to 1957, 1,400 coupes were produced before a come back to a more classical roadster.
The 300SL gullwing coupe is not rare, but the two cars to be sold by Bonhams on July 12 in the premises of the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart are especially interesting.
Lot 26 was in 1954 a demonstration specimen of the Salon de l'Automobile in Paris, co-starring on the Daimler-Benz stand with the W196 formula 1 model. This car was used in 1955 in reconnaissance of road by Stirling Moss and his navigator Denis Jenkinson before their victory in the Mille Miglia with a Mercedes-Benz from another model, a 300SLR. The estimate is not published.
Lot 39 was delivered in 1955. This coupe remained in a condition remarkably close to its original configuration without restoration or damage. It is estimated € 1.2 M.
The high end of the 300SL is a variant built in 29 units whose performance is improved by the use of a light alloy. One of these 300SL Alloy Gullwing cars was sold for $ 4.62 million including premium by Gooding on January 20, 2012.
POST SALE COMMENT
The 1954 gullwing coupe with a Stirling Moss story was sold for € 2.13M including premium.
The 1955 car was sold for € 1.38M including premium.
1955 300 SL Alloy Gullwing
2022 SOLD for $ 5M by RM Sotheby's
The 21st Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing was made in 1955. It includes many factory options including its Sonderteile upgrade pushing the engine to 215 hp output.
It was owned in the early 1960s by a member of the Pennsylvania senate who had managed from 1952 to 1956 a road race around his Brynfan Tyddyn estate, a Welsh wording for a large farm on a hilltop.
This car retains its fragile alloy body, after the required restorations made three decades ago. Its chassis, engine, gearbox, rear axle, steering box, and front axles are in matching numbers
It is estimated $ 5M for sale by RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2022, lot 311. The auction house believes that a small servicing would re-establish its original performances.
It was owned in the early 1960s by a member of the Pennsylvania senate who had managed from 1952 to 1956 a road race around his Brynfan Tyddyn estate, a Welsh wording for a large farm on a hilltop.
This car retains its fragile alloy body, after the required restorations made three decades ago. Its chassis, engine, gearbox, rear axle, steering box, and front axles are in matching numbers
It is estimated $ 5M for sale by RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2022, lot 311. The auction house believes that a small servicing would re-establish its original performances.
1955 New Technologies for Mercedes-Benz
2012 SOLD 4.6 M$ including premium
1955 started well for Mercedes-Benz. Introduced in the previous year, the 300SL model included innovative solutions, the most spectacular being the gullwing doors opening at the roof. They still had to achieve this ambition by results in competition.
Produced in 29 copies only, the 300SL Alloy version was intended for both road and racing. Its alloy body, lighter, was conducive to speed and endurance.
The 6th 300SL Alloy retaining its matching-number equipment is estimated $ 2.5 million, in the sale organized by Gooding in Scottsdale on 20 and 21 January, lot 27.
But it was also the year of the disaster: 83 dead in the accident of the 24 hours of Le Mans by the fault of a Mercedes-Benz 300SLR. This car was very different from the 300SL model, but the similarity of the two references was a marketing mistake which probably slowered the production of high-end Mercedes-Benz cars.
The way was now open to the overwhelming dominance of Ferrari.
Produced in 29 copies only, the 300SL Alloy version was intended for both road and racing. Its alloy body, lighter, was conducive to speed and endurance.
The 6th 300SL Alloy retaining its matching-number equipment is estimated $ 2.5 million, in the sale organized by Gooding in Scottsdale on 20 and 21 January, lot 27.
But it was also the year of the disaster: 83 dead in the accident of the 24 hours of Le Mans by the fault of a Mercedes-Benz 300SLR. This car was very different from the 300SL model, but the similarity of the two references was a marketing mistake which probably slowered the production of high-end Mercedes-Benz cars.
The way was now open to the overwhelming dominance of Ferrari.
1955 moss against portago
2015 unsold
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL had everything to win competitions. It was first assembled on W194 and then on W196 chassis. In 1955 gullwing bodies are mounted on the W198 chassis.
The 300 SL gullwing alloy is the most advanced technology of the brand. One of them was sold for $ 4,62M including premium by Gooding on 20-21 January 2012. However, the early wear of its aluminum based structure did not make it the best candidate for endurance racing.
For this reason, the engineers from the Sportabteilung department of Mercedes-Benz preferred the usual steel based technology for preparing four W198 300 SL gullwing cars for competition.
One of these four cars was sold after thirteen months to a friend of Stirling Moss. Driven by Moss with Houel as navigator, it finished second in the 1956 Tour de France after a very close contest against the Ferrari 250 GT of Portago and Nelson.
The winning Ferrari was sold for $ 13,2M including premium by RM Sotheby's on 15 August 2015. The valiant Mercedes-Benz with which Moss had challenged the domination of Portago is estimated $ 5M for sale by RM Sotheby's in New York on December 10,lot 223.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
The 300 SL gullwing alloy is the most advanced technology of the brand. One of them was sold for $ 4,62M including premium by Gooding on 20-21 January 2012. However, the early wear of its aluminum based structure did not make it the best candidate for endurance racing.
For this reason, the engineers from the Sportabteilung department of Mercedes-Benz preferred the usual steel based technology for preparing four W198 300 SL gullwing cars for competition.
One of these four cars was sold after thirteen months to a friend of Stirling Moss. Driven by Moss with Houel as navigator, it finished second in the 1956 Tour de France after a very close contest against the Ferrari 250 GT of Portago and Nelson.
The winning Ferrari was sold for $ 13,2M including premium by RM Sotheby's on 15 August 2015. The valiant Mercedes-Benz with which Moss had challenged the domination of Portago is estimated $ 5M for sale by RM Sotheby's in New York on December 10,lot 223.
I invite you to watch the video shared by the auction house.
1955 Alloy for the jet set
2015 Unsold
A Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing went unsold by RM Auctions in London on October 31, 2012 from an undisclosed estimate.
This car is now listed by the same auction company that becameRM Sotheby's in the mean time, for sale on August 13 in Monterey, lot 109 estimated $ 5.5M.
It is in great condition with matching numbers and includes many factory options.
I republish below my 2012 post introducing this model which was the very best of post war commercial Mercedes-Benz. The videolinked here was shared by RM before the 2012 sale.
Introduced in 1952, the 300SL by Mercedes-Benz had all the qualities to seduce lovers of fast and powerful cars. 300 means a 3-liter engine, and SL (Sport Leicht) is a skilled summary of the targeted market area.
In 1955, the third type of chassis used in the 300SL is the W198. Two important innovations appeal the fans.
One of them is aesthetically spectacular but ultimately quite surprising. Gullwing doors have their hinge in the axis of the roof. Access to the seat is not really easy, but it allows rainwater to pour on the passenger's head when he gets out of the car. Yet this fantasy spanned three years of production.
Another innovation is more interesting, but provides a significant additional cost. The body, usually offered in steel, is also optionally available in aluminum alloy.
Only made in 1955 and finally limited to 29 units, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing saves 80 kg compared to the basic model. It is the only production car whose performance can compete with Ferraris in the eyes of the wealthy customers wishing to mix sport, road ... and glamour !
On 20 January 2012, another 300SL Alloy Gullwing was sold for $ 4.62 million including premium by Gooding in Arizona.
This car is now listed by the same auction company that becameRM Sotheby's in the mean time, for sale on August 13 in Monterey, lot 109 estimated $ 5.5M.
It is in great condition with matching numbers and includes many factory options.
I republish below my 2012 post introducing this model which was the very best of post war commercial Mercedes-Benz. The videolinked here was shared by RM before the 2012 sale.
Introduced in 1952, the 300SL by Mercedes-Benz had all the qualities to seduce lovers of fast and powerful cars. 300 means a 3-liter engine, and SL (Sport Leicht) is a skilled summary of the targeted market area.
In 1955, the third type of chassis used in the 300SL is the W198. Two important innovations appeal the fans.
One of them is aesthetically spectacular but ultimately quite surprising. Gullwing doors have their hinge in the axis of the roof. Access to the seat is not really easy, but it allows rainwater to pour on the passenger's head when he gets out of the car. Yet this fantasy spanned three years of production.
Another innovation is more interesting, but provides a significant additional cost. The body, usually offered in steel, is also optionally available in aluminum alloy.
Only made in 1955 and finally limited to 29 units, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing saves 80 kg compared to the basic model. It is the only production car whose performance can compete with Ferraris in the eyes of the wealthy customers wishing to mix sport, road ... and glamour !
On 20 January 2012, another 300SL Alloy Gullwing was sold for $ 4.62 million including premium by Gooding in Arizona.
1956 Porsche develops the Spyder
2013 SOLD 3.75 M$ before fees
Porsche had been a company for engineering and development. After war, the founder's son Ferry Porsche creates his brand of sports cars. The first model is the Porsche 356.
Porsche also very soon offers bodies of Spyder type, a wording chosen by the Italian brand Cisitalia with which Ferry Porsche maintains a close cooperation.
Porsche continues to innovate. The engine type 547 is robust and reliable, with a new design of the camshaft. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to assemble and is not compatible with the 356 chassis. The Porsche 550 with a 547 engine, created in 1953, is an important step in the product line of the brand.
The 550 has all the features to become a fetish model. On September 30, 1955, James Dean tries his quite new Porsche. He did not want any rival in his way, and he dies by hitting at full speed a branching Ford.
A single seater Porsche 550/1500 RS Spyder is for sale on August 17 by Mecum in Monterey. It had been delivered new in January 1956 to Christian Goethals and has a good racing record with this driver. It was perhaps the first 550 to receive a further improvement, the stiffening of the chassis.
A dedicated catalog was issued for this lot. It is accessible from the page shared by Mecum.
POST SALE COMMENT
The estimate had not been published, but the importance of this Porsche was not in doubt. It was sold for $ 3.75 million before fees.
Porsche also very soon offers bodies of Spyder type, a wording chosen by the Italian brand Cisitalia with which Ferry Porsche maintains a close cooperation.
Porsche continues to innovate. The engine type 547 is robust and reliable, with a new design of the camshaft. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to assemble and is not compatible with the 356 chassis. The Porsche 550 with a 547 engine, created in 1953, is an important step in the product line of the brand.
The 550 has all the features to become a fetish model. On September 30, 1955, James Dean tries his quite new Porsche. He did not want any rival in his way, and he dies by hitting at full speed a branching Ford.
A single seater Porsche 550/1500 RS Spyder is for sale on August 17 by Mecum in Monterey. It had been delivered new in January 1956 to Christian Goethals and has a good racing record with this driver. It was perhaps the first 550 to receive a further improvement, the stiffening of the chassis.
A dedicated catalog was issued for this lot. It is accessible from the page shared by Mecum.
POST SALE COMMENT
The estimate had not been published, but the importance of this Porsche was not in doubt. It was sold for $ 3.75 million before fees.
1957 A BMW for John Surtees
2018 sold for £ 3.8m including premium
When introduced at New York in the summer of 1955, the BMW 507 is highly praised. This roadster will compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, it will be cheaper and American customers will like its elegance.
Production does not start until November 1956. Its costs are much higher than planned and the selling price has become excessive. BMW continues until 1959 this model that loses money. The managers of the brand had hoped to sell 5,000 cars per year. Overall, only 252 copies were built.
A motorcycle dealer in London, Jack Surtees has a professional relationship with the importers of Porsche and BMW. His son John is a prodigy of motorcycle racing, world champion in the 500 cc class in 1956 at the age of 22 with MV Agusta.
In 1957 in Hockenheim, John is seduced by the 507 brought to the BMW pit by the head of development of the brand who allows the young champion to drive it. When Agusta announces to John that his performances have exceeded his salary and deserve a gift, he asks for a 507. It is too expensive : they are trading for a fifty-fifty price split.
John is disappointed : his 507 is sluggish in hill climbing. The BMW officer tells him that the Hockenheim car had a more powerful engine and he agrees to modify John's car with a similar specification.
Deceased in 2017, John Surtees had kept and used throughout his life this one of a kind 507, even quietly resisting against an intimidation by Enzo Ferrari requesting him to give up German cars. It is estimated £ 2M for sale by Bonhams at Goodwood on July 13, lot 330. Please watch the video prepared by Goodwood Road and Racing with Bonhams.
Production does not start until November 1956. Its costs are much higher than planned and the selling price has become excessive. BMW continues until 1959 this model that loses money. The managers of the brand had hoped to sell 5,000 cars per year. Overall, only 252 copies were built.
A motorcycle dealer in London, Jack Surtees has a professional relationship with the importers of Porsche and BMW. His son John is a prodigy of motorcycle racing, world champion in the 500 cc class in 1956 at the age of 22 with MV Agusta.
In 1957 in Hockenheim, John is seduced by the 507 brought to the BMW pit by the head of development of the brand who allows the young champion to drive it. When Agusta announces to John that his performances have exceeded his salary and deserve a gift, he asks for a 507. It is too expensive : they are trading for a fifty-fifty price split.
John is disappointed : his 507 is sluggish in hill climbing. The BMW officer tells him that the Hockenheim car had a more powerful engine and he agrees to modify John's car with a similar specification.
Deceased in 2017, John Surtees had kept and used throughout his life this one of a kind 507, even quietly resisting against an intimidation by Enzo Ferrari requesting him to give up German cars. It is estimated £ 2M for sale by Bonhams at Goodwood on July 13, lot 330. Please watch the video prepared by Goodwood Road and Racing with Bonhams.
1959 A Beautiful Porsche Spyder
2014 SOLD for $ 3.3M including premium
PRE 2013 SALE DISCUSSION
The 1950s saw the supremacy of the spyder body in endurance and hill climbing races. For winning, the brands invest in technological developments which are disturbed by the incessant and often essential changes in the regulation of racing.
During this period, Porsche became a formidable competitor against Ferrari and Jaguar. At the end of the decade, the Porsche 718 RSK Spyder is the culmination of their efforts. Bodied by Wendler, it is a very nice car, low and aerodynamic.
About 35 units were produced in this model. However, it seems to be very rare at auction. One of them, built in 1959, is estimated $ 2.8 million, for sale by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 19, 2013.
This car has retained its original equipment ("matching numbers"). It also had a good racing history in the hands of its first owner, a private pilot.
POST 2013 SALE COMMENT
This very good example from the time of Porsche's growing ambitions was sold for $ 3.13 million including premium.
LATER COMMENT
This car was sold for $ 3.3M including premium by Gooding in Amelia Island on March 7, 2014, lot 048. I missed to post it again in this column at that time.
The 1950s saw the supremacy of the spyder body in endurance and hill climbing races. For winning, the brands invest in technological developments which are disturbed by the incessant and often essential changes in the regulation of racing.
During this period, Porsche became a formidable competitor against Ferrari and Jaguar. At the end of the decade, the Porsche 718 RSK Spyder is the culmination of their efforts. Bodied by Wendler, it is a very nice car, low and aerodynamic.
About 35 units were produced in this model. However, it seems to be very rare at auction. One of them, built in 1959, is estimated $ 2.8 million, for sale by Gooding in Scottsdale on January 19, 2013.
This car has retained its original equipment ("matching numbers"). It also had a good racing history in the hands of its first owner, a private pilot.
POST 2013 SALE COMMENT
This very good example from the time of Porsche's growing ambitions was sold for $ 3.13 million including premium.
LATER COMMENT
This car was sold for $ 3.3M including premium by Gooding in Amelia Island on March 7, 2014, lot 048. I missed to post it again in this column at that time.
1959 718 RSK Werks
2022 SOLD for $ 4.3M by RM Sotheby's
The 1950s saw the supremacy of the spyder body in endurance and hill climbing races. For winning, the brands invest in technological developments which are amended by the incessant and often essential changes in the regulation of racing.
During this period, Porsche became a formidable competitor against Ferrari and Jaguar. From 1957 the 1.5/1.6 liter 718 RSK Spyder is the culmination of their efforts. Bodied by Wendler, it is a small car, low and streamlined, with a light weight and high rigidity and stability in the follow of the 550.
34 cars were produced in this model, including 10 factory team alloy Spyders. An early RSK finished 1st in class and 3rd iverall at the 1958 Le Mans 24.
One of these 718 RSK Werks Spyder got significant competition results in its 1959 factory team season, driven by von Trips, Bonnier, Herrmann, Maglioli, Barth, and MacAfee. It finished first in class at Sebring 12 hours and Nürburgring 1000 km and entered several hillclimbs. In 1960 new FIA rules supported the success in Europe of the improved RS 60 version and that Werks car was sold to a US privateer.
This car made in 1959 had also been the prototype for a modified rear suspension. Its original engine was damaged beyond repair in the 1970s. Polished to mirror like finish, the car had once been nicknamed the Shining Spyder.
Now extensively restored and re-painted, it is estimated $ 4.8M for sale by RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2022, lot 344.
During this period, Porsche became a formidable competitor against Ferrari and Jaguar. From 1957 the 1.5/1.6 liter 718 RSK Spyder is the culmination of their efforts. Bodied by Wendler, it is a small car, low and streamlined, with a light weight and high rigidity and stability in the follow of the 550.
34 cars were produced in this model, including 10 factory team alloy Spyders. An early RSK finished 1st in class and 3rd iverall at the 1958 Le Mans 24.
One of these 718 RSK Werks Spyder got significant competition results in its 1959 factory team season, driven by von Trips, Bonnier, Herrmann, Maglioli, Barth, and MacAfee. It finished first in class at Sebring 12 hours and Nürburgring 1000 km and entered several hillclimbs. In 1960 new FIA rules supported the success in Europe of the improved RS 60 version and that Werks car was sold to a US privateer.
This car made in 1959 had also been the prototype for a modified rear suspension. Its original engine was damaged beyond repair in the 1970s. Polished to mirror like finish, the car had once been nicknamed the Shining Spyder.
Now extensively restored and re-painted, it is estimated $ 4.8M for sale by RM Sotheby's on August 20, 2022, lot 344.
1959 718 RSK
2018 SOLD for $ 3.74M by Gooding
2022 unsold
A 718 RSK made in 1959 was sold new to a US privateer. A US amateur then raced it until 1963.
After a recent award winning restoration by Rare Drive Inc in its 1959 Le Mans configuration in Lucybelle private livery, it is estimated $ 4.5M for sale by Gooding on August 20, 2022, lot 137. It is illustrated in a pre sale press release.
Before being restored, it had been sold for $ 3.74M by Gooding in August 2018, lot 128.
It is introduced and driven by David Gooding with its detailed restoration narrated by the Rare Drive restorer in the video shared by the auction house.
After a recent award winning restoration by Rare Drive Inc in its 1959 Le Mans configuration in Lucybelle private livery, it is estimated $ 4.5M for sale by Gooding on August 20, 2022, lot 137. It is illustrated in a pre sale press release.
Before being restored, it had been sold for $ 3.74M by Gooding in August 2018, lot 128.
It is introduced and driven by David Gooding with its detailed restoration narrated by the Rare Drive restorer in the video shared by the auction house.
1959 718 RSK Mittellenker
2019 and 2023 unsold
Formula 1 had lowered in 1954 to 2.5 liters the maximum allowed displacement. To maintain an interest in its competitions through a significant difference, the Formula 2 modifies its regulations in 1957 with a maximum volume of 1.5 liters and the incentive to enter cars with enveloping bodywork.
Porsche is ready : these two characteristics already defined its Spyders 550, released in 1953, and 550A, the lightweight evolution launched in 1956. The 550/550A, hardly bigger than a voiturette, is much appreciated for its maneuverability in endurance racing. The 718 RSK succeeds it in 1957 with a modified suspension.
Formulas 1 and 2 are applicable to single-seaters. In 1958-1959 Porsche builds for its factory team about six 718 RSK with center seat (Mittellenker). It will be replaced in 1959 by a real open-wheeled narrow single-seater, the 718/2.
A 718 RSK Mittellenker made in 1959 which won in that year the Grand Prix de Leopoldville. Despite an extensive racing use, it has retained most of its original Wendler coachwork, along with its original Typ 547/3 engine and gearbox. This car is one of four fully reconfigurable for a more usual offset steering in a few hours.
It passed at Bonhams in 2019 on August 16, 2019, lot 144 and at Mecum on January 7, 2023, lot K151.1. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Porsche is ready : these two characteristics already defined its Spyders 550, released in 1953, and 550A, the lightweight evolution launched in 1956. The 550/550A, hardly bigger than a voiturette, is much appreciated for its maneuverability in endurance racing. The 718 RSK succeeds it in 1957 with a modified suspension.
Formulas 1 and 2 are applicable to single-seaters. In 1958-1959 Porsche builds for its factory team about six 718 RSK with center seat (Mittellenker). It will be replaced in 1959 by a real open-wheeled narrow single-seater, the 718/2.
A 718 RSK Mittellenker made in 1959 which won in that year the Grand Prix de Leopoldville. Despite an extensive racing use, it has retained most of its original Wendler coachwork, along with its original Typ 547/3 engine and gearbox. This car is one of four fully reconfigurable for a more usual offset steering in a few hours.
It passed at Bonhams in 2019 on August 16, 2019, lot 144 and at Mecum on January 7, 2023, lot K151.1. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1967 Porsche 911 R
2021 SOLD for $ 3.36M by RM Sotheby's
Introduced in 1964 with a flat six 1,991 cc engine, the model 911 is the basis of an everlasting continuous improvement by the Porsche engineers, in the full range of applications from popular models to high performance limited series.
In 1967 the first 911 R is an evolution of a just released 911 S. The requirement from racing director Ferdinand Piëch is to save as much weight as possible to target racing and rallies, and especially the GT 2.0 class of the FIA. Its 820 kg dry weight makes it the lightest production Porsche ever made.
The design of the R is defined after testing various solutions on four prototypes including an extensive use of fiberglass and plastic. A production series of 20 cars is built with no further follow because its make is too expensive. Also the FIA did not accept it as a variant of the 911 S but as a prototype.
One of them was sold for $ 3.36M by RM Sotheby's on August 14, 2021, lot 339. It has an extensive history in period in rallies and had been used in reconnaissance in the 1970s by Thierry Sabine who created the Paris-Dakar in 1978. It has been recently re-united with its rare original racing engine Type 901/22.
In 1967 the first 911 R is an evolution of a just released 911 S. The requirement from racing director Ferdinand Piëch is to save as much weight as possible to target racing and rallies, and especially the GT 2.0 class of the FIA. Its 820 kg dry weight makes it the lightest production Porsche ever made.
The design of the R is defined after testing various solutions on four prototypes including an extensive use of fiberglass and plastic. A production series of 20 cars is built with no further follow because its make is too expensive. Also the FIA did not accept it as a variant of the 911 S but as a prototype.
One of them was sold for $ 3.36M by RM Sotheby's on August 14, 2021, lot 339. It has an extensive history in period in rallies and had been used in reconnaissance in the 1970s by Thierry Sabine who created the Paris-Dakar in 1978. It has been recently re-united with its rare original racing engine Type 901/22.
1968 907
2022 SOLD for € 4.4M by Artcurial
Since 1964, the Ford GT40 is the wonder of the circuits. Beautiful and effective, it still looks like a road car. In 1967, Porsche wants to become the great rival of Ford and Ferrari in endurance races.
Cars of that time have the required robustness for competitions of 12 or 24 hours or 1000 km. Porsche understands that the advantage must now come through the top speed in straight lines. Of course, the target of the German brand is Le Mans with its famous Mulsanne straight.
With the Porsche 907, the optimization is performed by the aerodynamic shape of the coachwork with lower body and long tail. This car inaugurates these new shapes which, beyond the oil crisis, lead to supercars. The new model reaches 300 km/h.
The 2.2 litres 8 cylinder engine is ready in 1968, replacing the original 2 litres 6 cylinders of the model. The new model 908 has the same 8 cylinder engine bored out to 3 litres. The fabulous career of Porsche in endurance racing has begun. As early as 1969, the Porsche 917 is released.
The penultimate 907 from 1968 was sold for € 4.4M by Artcurial on March 18, 2022, lot 203. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. This car was raced in many competitions including three times Le Mans 24, from 1970 to 1972, and the Nürburgring 1000 km in 1968 as an ex works car.
Cars of that time have the required robustness for competitions of 12 or 24 hours or 1000 km. Porsche understands that the advantage must now come through the top speed in straight lines. Of course, the target of the German brand is Le Mans with its famous Mulsanne straight.
With the Porsche 907, the optimization is performed by the aerodynamic shape of the coachwork with lower body and long tail. This car inaugurates these new shapes which, beyond the oil crisis, lead to supercars. The new model reaches 300 km/h.
The 2.2 litres 8 cylinder engine is ready in 1968, replacing the original 2 litres 6 cylinders of the model. The new model 908 has the same 8 cylinder engine bored out to 3 litres. The fabulous career of Porsche in endurance racing has begun. As early as 1969, the Porsche 917 is released.
The penultimate 907 from 1968 was sold for € 4.4M by Artcurial on March 18, 2022, lot 203. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. This car was raced in many competitions including three times Le Mans 24, from 1970 to 1972, and the Nürburgring 1000 km in 1968 as an ex works car.
1968 A Porsche 907 for Mulsanne
2014 SOLD 3.63 M$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Since 1964, the Ford GT40 is the wonder of the circuits. Beautiful and effective, it still looks like a road car. In 1967, Porsche wants to become the great rival of Ford and Ferrari in endurance races.
Cars of that time have the required robustness for competitions of 12 or 24 hours or 1000 km. Porsche understands that the advantage must now come through the top speed in straight lines. Of course, the target of the German brand is Le Mans with its famous Mulsanne straight.
With the Porsche 907, the optimization is performed by the aerodynamic shape of the coachwork with lower body and long tail. This car inaugurates these new shapes which, beyond the oil crisis, lead to supercars. The new model reaches 300 km/h.
However, the 2.2 liter 8 cylinder engine which is an essential element of this project is not ready until the following year. In 1968, seven cars are built in the final variant of the 907.
For five years, one of them accumulates a remarkable racing record. Competing in Daytona, Le Mans, Sebring and Monza, it is the first car in the history of Porsche to win a major endurance race, in its very first year at Daytona.
Being now one of only two cars still in existence in this configuration, it is estimated $ 3.5 million, for sale by Gooding in Amelia Island on March 7, lot 66 in the catalog.
The fabulous career of Porsche in endurance racing has begun. As early as 1969, the Porsche 917 is released.
POST SALE COMMENT
This very rare Porsche was sold for $ 3.3M before fees, 3.63M including premium.
Since 1964, the Ford GT40 is the wonder of the circuits. Beautiful and effective, it still looks like a road car. In 1967, Porsche wants to become the great rival of Ford and Ferrari in endurance races.
Cars of that time have the required robustness for competitions of 12 or 24 hours or 1000 km. Porsche understands that the advantage must now come through the top speed in straight lines. Of course, the target of the German brand is Le Mans with its famous Mulsanne straight.
With the Porsche 907, the optimization is performed by the aerodynamic shape of the coachwork with lower body and long tail. This car inaugurates these new shapes which, beyond the oil crisis, lead to supercars. The new model reaches 300 km/h.
However, the 2.2 liter 8 cylinder engine which is an essential element of this project is not ready until the following year. In 1968, seven cars are built in the final variant of the 907.
For five years, one of them accumulates a remarkable racing record. Competing in Daytona, Le Mans, Sebring and Monza, it is the first car in the history of Porsche to win a major endurance race, in its very first year at Daytona.
Being now one of only two cars still in existence in this configuration, it is estimated $ 3.5 million, for sale by Gooding in Amelia Island on March 7, lot 66 in the catalog.
The fabulous career of Porsche in endurance racing has begun. As early as 1969, the Porsche 917 is released.
POST SALE COMMENT
This very rare Porsche was sold for $ 3.3M before fees, 3.63M including premium.
1969 Porsche 908-02
2022 SOLD for $ 4.2M by Gooding
Porsche had a long tradition of entering small and light cars in racing competition. The brand got its advantage by the complexity of its small engines and the care to aerodynamics in the bodywork.
Like Ferrari in the 1950s, Porsche appreciates that different competition profiles require various technical solutions. Developed in parallel in 1968 and 1969, the powerful 917 with a 4.5 liter engine and the small 908 powered by a 3-liter engine do not have the same targets.
The 917 targets Le Mans. The 908 manages to be maneuverable on twisty circuits and winding roads such as Nürburgring and Targa Florio. The major challenge is the stability for the 917 and the light weight for the 908.
The first 908's are coupes. In 1969 the 908/02 gives up the closed cockpit. Lighter than the coupe, that new spyder with an aluminum frame weighs 600 kg. Its flattened body opens the style of extreme minimalism in the shape : the optimization of the aerodynamics leaves no place for an aesthetic initiative excepted for garish colors. It got the nickname Flunder, a flat fish.
With a shorter chassis the 908/03 introduced in 1970 weighs no more than 500 Kg. It includes the ultimate subtlety of decentering the weights to the right side for a greater efficiency in the closed circuits of Nürburgring and Targa Florio. Vertical fins are added to the rear in 1971.
The 908 wins the 1000 Km Nürburgring every year from 1968 to 1971, breaking the record of 6H 54 obtained in the previous year by a Porsche 910. The progression rewards the efforts of the designers : 6H 34 by a 908 in 1968, 6H 11 by a 908/02 in 1969, 6H 05 by a 908/03 in 1970 and 5H 51 in 1971 by a 908/03 piloted by a private team.
A 908/02 made in 1969 as a works car and acquired by a privateer after a few races is estimated $ 4M for sale by Gooding on August 19, 2022, lot 44. It is illustrated in the pre sale press release. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. The car is accompanied with its previous Flunder body and its engine has been rebuilt. It remains otherwise a highly original example with no accident in its six year racing career.
Like Ferrari in the 1950s, Porsche appreciates that different competition profiles require various technical solutions. Developed in parallel in 1968 and 1969, the powerful 917 with a 4.5 liter engine and the small 908 powered by a 3-liter engine do not have the same targets.
The 917 targets Le Mans. The 908 manages to be maneuverable on twisty circuits and winding roads such as Nürburgring and Targa Florio. The major challenge is the stability for the 917 and the light weight for the 908.
The first 908's are coupes. In 1969 the 908/02 gives up the closed cockpit. Lighter than the coupe, that new spyder with an aluminum frame weighs 600 kg. Its flattened body opens the style of extreme minimalism in the shape : the optimization of the aerodynamics leaves no place for an aesthetic initiative excepted for garish colors. It got the nickname Flunder, a flat fish.
With a shorter chassis the 908/03 introduced in 1970 weighs no more than 500 Kg. It includes the ultimate subtlety of decentering the weights to the right side for a greater efficiency in the closed circuits of Nürburgring and Targa Florio. Vertical fins are added to the rear in 1971.
The 908 wins the 1000 Km Nürburgring every year from 1968 to 1971, breaking the record of 6H 54 obtained in the previous year by a Porsche 910. The progression rewards the efforts of the designers : 6H 34 by a 908 in 1968, 6H 11 by a 908/02 in 1969, 6H 05 by a 908/03 in 1970 and 5H 51 in 1971 by a 908/03 piloted by a private team.
A 908/02 made in 1969 as a works car and acquired by a privateer after a few races is estimated $ 4M for sale by Gooding on August 19, 2022, lot 44. It is illustrated in the pre sale press release. Please watch the video shared by the auction house. The car is accompanied with its previous Flunder body and its engine has been rebuilt. It remains otherwise a highly original example with no accident in its six year racing career.
1969-1970 The Porsche 908 gets its Tail back
2014 SOLD for £ 2.2M including premium
The development of models 908 and 917 by Porsche is simultaneous in 1968 and 1969. The powers and categories are however not comparable. The 917 is in Group 4 with its huge 4.5-liter engine, while the 908 is in Group 6 with 3 liters.
The first issue to solve, especially crucial for the 917, is the stability. The short tail K version (Kurz Heck) is steady but too heavy while the LH (Lang Heck) has a better top speed.
The 908.02 version, released as prototypes in 1969, is a spyder, lighter than the previous 908 coupe. Its aerodynamics is also improved by a much flattened body that provides it the nickname Flunder (flat fish).
The pilots went to prefer the LH. In 1970, the chassis 5 of the Porsche 908.02 Flunder is modified into a Lang Heck. In this configuration, it gets a nice history in endurance racing and participates in some running sequences in the film Le Mans.
This 908.02 Flunder LH prototype is for sale by Bonhams in London on November 30, lot 23.
The first issue to solve, especially crucial for the 917, is the stability. The short tail K version (Kurz Heck) is steady but too heavy while the LH (Lang Heck) has a better top speed.
The 908.02 version, released as prototypes in 1969, is a spyder, lighter than the previous 908 coupe. Its aerodynamics is also improved by a much flattened body that provides it the nickname Flunder (flat fish).
The pilots went to prefer the LH. In 1970, the chassis 5 of the Porsche 908.02 Flunder is modified into a Lang Heck. In this configuration, it gets a nice history in endurance racing and participates in some running sequences in the film Le Mans.
This 908.02 Flunder LH prototype is for sale by Bonhams in London on November 30, lot 23.
1970 Porsche 917K / 917 Spyder
2010 SOLD for $ 4M by Bonhams
Winning at Le Mans was for many years the ultimate dream for Porsche. In 1969, they missed it when a 908 was not powerful enough to overcome a veteran Ford GT40 Mk I in the last lap. The Ford was operated by John Wyer Automotive.
In 1970 the new coupes 917K and 917LH were highly promising and John Wyer left Ford for Porsche, including a full factory support. The race was won by another works 917K ahead of a 917LH and a 908.
None of the three 917K entered by John Wyer Automotive Gulf finished that race. One of them crashed under heavy rain. It had been specially filmed in the race by a 908 equipped for the preparation of Le Mans film, which will be released in 1971. It is this car which is featured in its resplendent Gulf-Porsche blue and orange livery as the winning car starred by Steve McQueen.
The chassis was repaired and renumbered in 1971 by the factory. It was re-bodied at that time as a spyder according to the new 917/10 design prepared for the CanAm. It was then raced for three seasons in the Interserie.
Still as a spyder, it was sold for $ 4M by Bonhams on August 12, 2010, lot 236, without a reference to its movie fame as a coupe.
It was later restored to its original 1970 Le Mans racing configuration as a coupe with the Gulf livery. It passed at RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 14, 2021, lot 328. It is still accompanied by its former spyder body and still retains the engine from its factory rebuild. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
In 1970 the new coupes 917K and 917LH were highly promising and John Wyer left Ford for Porsche, including a full factory support. The race was won by another works 917K ahead of a 917LH and a 908.
None of the three 917K entered by John Wyer Automotive Gulf finished that race. One of them crashed under heavy rain. It had been specially filmed in the race by a 908 equipped for the preparation of Le Mans film, which will be released in 1971. It is this car which is featured in its resplendent Gulf-Porsche blue and orange livery as the winning car starred by Steve McQueen.
The chassis was repaired and renumbered in 1971 by the factory. It was re-bodied at that time as a spyder according to the new 917/10 design prepared for the CanAm. It was then raced for three seasons in the Interserie.
Still as a spyder, it was sold for $ 4M by Bonhams on August 12, 2010, lot 236, without a reference to its movie fame as a coupe.
It was later restored to its original 1970 Le Mans racing configuration as a coupe with the Gulf livery. It passed at RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 14, 2021, lot 328. It is still accompanied by its former spyder body and still retains the engine from its factory rebuild. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1970 Six Hours on the Nürburgring
2017 SOLD for $ 3.6M including premium
Porsche understood that they cannot win all the endurance competitions with a single model. The powerful and heavy 917 brings the necessary top speed to win Le Mans.
On winding roads a nimble car is needed. The 908 with its 3-liter engine is the subject of successive variants that follow both the critical need of lightening for maintaining the lead over its competitors and the unceasing changes in the regulations.
The first 908's are coupes. In 1969 with the 908/02 Porsche gives up the closed cockpit. This very low spyder opens the period of extreme minimalism in the shape of the cars : the optimization of the aerodynamics leaves no place for an aesthetic initiative. These flat cars are even more spectacular with garish colors.
With a shorter chassis the 908/03 introduced in 1970 weighs no more than 500 Kg. It includes the ultimate subtlety of decentering the weights to the right side for a greater efficiency in the closed circuits of Nürburgring and Targa Florio. Vertical fins are added to the rear in 1971.
The 908 wins the 1000 Km Nürburgring every year from 1968 to 1971, breaking the record of 6H 54 obtained in the previous year by a Porsche 910. The progression rewards the efforts of the designers : 6H 34 by a 908 in 1968, 6H 11 by a 908/02 in 1969, 6H 05 by a 908/03 in 1970 and 5H 51 in 1971 by a 908/03 piloted by a private team.
Built as a prototype in January 1970, a 908/03 finished second in the same year at the 1000 Km Nürburgring. It then came back to the factory as a development car and received the rear fins. Restored in its configuration and pale yellow livery of the 1970 Nürburgring, it is estimated $ 3.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 19, lot 256. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
On winding roads a nimble car is needed. The 908 with its 3-liter engine is the subject of successive variants that follow both the critical need of lightening for maintaining the lead over its competitors and the unceasing changes in the regulations.
The first 908's are coupes. In 1969 with the 908/02 Porsche gives up the closed cockpit. This very low spyder opens the period of extreme minimalism in the shape of the cars : the optimization of the aerodynamics leaves no place for an aesthetic initiative. These flat cars are even more spectacular with garish colors.
With a shorter chassis the 908/03 introduced in 1970 weighs no more than 500 Kg. It includes the ultimate subtlety of decentering the weights to the right side for a greater efficiency in the closed circuits of Nürburgring and Targa Florio. Vertical fins are added to the rear in 1971.
The 908 wins the 1000 Km Nürburgring every year from 1968 to 1971, breaking the record of 6H 54 obtained in the previous year by a Porsche 910. The progression rewards the efforts of the designers : 6H 34 by a 908 in 1968, 6H 11 by a 908/02 in 1969, 6H 05 by a 908/03 in 1970 and 5H 51 in 1971 by a 908/03 piloted by a private team.
Built as a prototype in January 1970, a 908/03 finished second in the same year at the 1000 Km Nürburgring. It then came back to the factory as a development car and received the rear fins. Restored in its configuration and pale yellow livery of the 1970 Nürburgring, it is estimated $ 3.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Monterey on August 19, lot 256. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1970 the porsche turbo
2015 unsold
Porsche had a long tradition of entering small and light cars in racing competition. The brand got its advantage by the complexity of its small engines and the care to aerodynamics in the bodywork.
Like Ferrari in the 1950s, Porsche appreciates that different competition profiles require various technical solutions. Developed in parallel, the powerful 917 and the 'petite' 908 do not have the same targets.
The 908 tries to be maneuverable on twisty circuits such as Nürburgring or Targa Florio. The weight is a handicap. Once freed from its coupé cockpit and shortened to the maximum possible extent, the 908, modified to 908/03 in 1970, is a technical feat with only 500 Kg powered by a 3-liter engine. Thirteen chassis are built.
In 1972, the new rules of Class 5 require a minimum weight of 650 Kg. Porsche could load its 908/03 but success was not foregone and the brand preferred to remove these cars from competition. In 1974, a new change in regulations now accepting turbocharged engines opens a new career for the 908. The air cooled engine is then withdrawn on several 908/03 to be replaced by a turbocharged 2.15 liter engine.
The Porsche 908/03 Turbo for sale by Bonhams at Goodwood on September 12 is the best example of this complicated story. It is estimated £ 2.2 million, lot 353. This car in working order is eligible for endurance racing in its age group.
Released in 1970, it was dismantled in 1972, then sold to a private customer and retrieved by the factory in 1974. Its competition history in 1975 in its new turbo configuration is intensive.
Like Ferrari in the 1950s, Porsche appreciates that different competition profiles require various technical solutions. Developed in parallel, the powerful 917 and the 'petite' 908 do not have the same targets.
The 908 tries to be maneuverable on twisty circuits such as Nürburgring or Targa Florio. The weight is a handicap. Once freed from its coupé cockpit and shortened to the maximum possible extent, the 908, modified to 908/03 in 1970, is a technical feat with only 500 Kg powered by a 3-liter engine. Thirteen chassis are built.
In 1972, the new rules of Class 5 require a minimum weight of 650 Kg. Porsche could load its 908/03 but success was not foregone and the brand preferred to remove these cars from competition. In 1974, a new change in regulations now accepting turbocharged engines opens a new career for the 908. The air cooled engine is then withdrawn on several 908/03 to be replaced by a turbocharged 2.15 liter engine.
The Porsche 908/03 Turbo for sale by Bonhams at Goodwood on September 12 is the best example of this complicated story. It is estimated £ 2.2 million, lot 353. This car in working order is eligible for endurance racing in its age group.
Released in 1970, it was dismantled in 1972, then sold to a private customer and retrieved by the factory in 1974. Its competition history in 1975 in its new turbo configuration is intensive.
1971 porsche in Group 7
2012 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile), established in 1904, is the agency that regulates racing. For example, it developed the rules of Formula 1 in 1950.
Rule changes that were made necessary in several categories by spectacular and repeated accidents had a major rolein the development of automotive technologies, the top manufacturers endeavouring to demonstrate both their adaptation and their desire to win.
Group 7 was lesser known than F1 but more spectacular because the engine power was not limited. It was somehow tothe automobile what the heavyweight championship was to boxing. Only two organizations dared to engage in thesehigh-end series of competitions : the Canadian-American Challenge Cup or Can-Am, created in 1966, and Interserie,created in 1970.
Achieving the best car in the world tempted Porsche, which developed for this specific need the 917/10 Can-Am model in a Spyder bodywork.
The 917/10-001 chassis was a test car. Built in 1971, it attended its first race in January of the following year at Hockenheim.
The 917/10-002 chassis was bought by Jo Siffert, who operated it six times in the 1971 Can-Am championship. This car is estimated $ 2.9 million, to be sold by RM Auctions in their Monterey sale of 17 and 18 August.
Chance of auctions: the 917/10-003 chassis has been discussed in this group a few days ago before its sale byMecum on August 18. This previous article also tells the transition to the best car of all time, the Porsche 917/30 Can-Am Spyder.
This car is photographed on last position in the article shared by Classic Driver.
The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile), established in 1904, is the agency that regulates racing. For example, it developed the rules of Formula 1 in 1950.
Rule changes that were made necessary in several categories by spectacular and repeated accidents had a major rolein the development of automotive technologies, the top manufacturers endeavouring to demonstrate both their adaptation and their desire to win.
Group 7 was lesser known than F1 but more spectacular because the engine power was not limited. It was somehow tothe automobile what the heavyweight championship was to boxing. Only two organizations dared to engage in thesehigh-end series of competitions : the Canadian-American Challenge Cup or Can-Am, created in 1966, and Interserie,created in 1970.
Achieving the best car in the world tempted Porsche, which developed for this specific need the 917/10 Can-Am model in a Spyder bodywork.
The 917/10-001 chassis was a test car. Built in 1971, it attended its first race in January of the following year at Hockenheim.
The 917/10-002 chassis was bought by Jo Siffert, who operated it six times in the 1971 Can-Am championship. This car is estimated $ 2.9 million, to be sold by RM Auctions in their Monterey sale of 17 and 18 August.
Chance of auctions: the 917/10-003 chassis has been discussed in this group a few days ago before its sale byMecum on August 18. This previous article also tells the transition to the best car of all time, the Porsche 917/30 Can-Am Spyder.
This car is photographed on last position in the article shared by Classic Driver.
1974 the Porsche Turbo
2018 unsold
The 908 model reference applies to racing prototypes entered by Porsche in the 3-liter class. Its production ended in 1971. To support its successors with commercial models, Porsche re-engineered the high-end of their 911 and created in 1973 the 911 Carrera RS and RSR with 2.8-liter engine. In 1974 they push the capacity of the RSR to 3 liters.
The Porsche Turbo is also developed in 1974 with a 2.1-liter engine and a compression ratio of 1.4 which remain compatible with the regulations of the 3-liter class. Four Porsche 911 Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo are built and two of them are entered in the 24 hours of Le Mans.
To everyone's surprise one of these two experimental Porsche Turbo driven by Müller and Van Lennep proved to be the only car capable to compete with the Matra of Pescarolo and Larrousse and finished the race in second position overall. The best Carrera RSR 3.0 non-turbo was seventh.
The same Porsche Turbo driven by the same works team achieves a similar feat in the following month at the 6 hours of Watkins Glen. Sold by Porsche after the end of that season, it is little used thereafter. Well preserved in an excellent original condition, it is estimated $ 6M for sale by Gooding at Amelia Island on March 9, lot 22. Here is the link to the press release.
The achievement of this 911 2.1 Turbo encourages Porsche to develop their turbocharged range. From 1975 the Porsche 911 Turbo with 3-liter engine also known as Porsche 930 becomes one of the best commercial successes of the great 911 range. In 1976 their 934 and 935 evolutions are approved for Groups 4 and 5 of the FIA.
The Porsche Turbo is also developed in 1974 with a 2.1-liter engine and a compression ratio of 1.4 which remain compatible with the regulations of the 3-liter class. Four Porsche 911 Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo are built and two of them are entered in the 24 hours of Le Mans.
To everyone's surprise one of these two experimental Porsche Turbo driven by Müller and Van Lennep proved to be the only car capable to compete with the Matra of Pescarolo and Larrousse and finished the race in second position overall. The best Carrera RSR 3.0 non-turbo was seventh.
The same Porsche Turbo driven by the same works team achieves a similar feat in the following month at the 6 hours of Watkins Glen. Sold by Porsche after the end of that season, it is little used thereafter. Well preserved in an excellent original condition, it is estimated $ 6M for sale by Gooding at Amelia Island on March 9, lot 22. Here is the link to the press release.
The achievement of this 911 2.1 Turbo encourages Porsche to develop their turbocharged range. From 1975 the Porsche 911 Turbo with 3-liter engine also known as Porsche 930 becomes one of the best commercial successes of the great 911 range. In 1976 their 934 and 935 evolutions are approved for Groups 4 and 5 of the FIA.
1983 Porsche 956
2021 unsold
Made in 1983, 956-110 is arguably the most successful of the nine privateer Porsche 956s which were entered in the WEC. It was also entered twice at Le Mans 24.
It was raced to victory ahead of two factory Rothmans 956 by John Fitzpatrick and Derek Warwick at the Brands Hatch 1000 km in September 1983. Its earlier win at the Can-Am Road America, also with its owner Fitzpatrick, makes it the only 956 to have competed and won in period in America. That feat was celebrated by Porsche with a poster.
Restored in its 1983 Le Mans JDavid livery, it is estimated $ 4.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's at Monterey on August 14, 2021, lot 342.
The image of this car at Retro Classics 2020 is shared by Wikimedia with attribution as follows :
It was raced to victory ahead of two factory Rothmans 956 by John Fitzpatrick and Derek Warwick at the Brands Hatch 1000 km in September 1983. Its earlier win at the Can-Am Road America, also with its owner Fitzpatrick, makes it the only 956 to have competed and won in period in America. That feat was celebrated by Porsche with a poster.
Restored in its 1983 Le Mans JDavid livery, it is estimated $ 4.5M for sale by RM Sotheby's at Monterey on August 14, 2021, lot 342.
The image of this car at Retro Classics 2020 is shared by Wikimedia with attribution as follows :
1983 A Porsche in America
2018 unsold
The English racing driver John Fitzpatrick was a four-time winner of the Porsche Cup, a prize awarded to the best private Porschedriver of the year. Also active in America, he won in 1980 seven of the fourteen races of the IMSA Championship with a Porsche 935K3.
In 1981 Fitzpatrick creates his team, the John Fitzpatrick Racing (JFR). In the same year the FIA defines the rules of its new Group C, to be applicable from the following year. For these competitions, Porsche develops the 956, the first car of the brand with an aluminum monocoque, and benefiting from aerodynamic studies improving cornering stability by using the ground effect.
From 1982 to 1985 25 units of the 956 are built. The goal is achieved : they dominate the Group C. The third factory car is second at Le Mans in 1982 and wins in 1983. It was sold for $ 10.1M including premium by Gooding on August 15, 2015.
In 1983 a 956 is bought new by JFR. It immediately enters Le Mans and the Norisring in Nuremberg. Unfortunately the FIA and IMSA safety rules are not fully compatible and all the 956 are excluded from IMSA competitions including Daytona and Sebring.
Fitzpatrick uses a 935 for the IMSA but his 956 is still part of the trip. Driven by him it wins its first American race, the Can-Am Road America. Before returning to Europe it is ranked 3rd at another Can-Am competition in Mosport, Canada. It is the unique 956 with an American history in period.
The best achievement of this car is its victory with Fitzpatrick and Warwick at the 1000 km of Brands Hatch in September of the same year. For that competition it benefited from an extension of the ventilation system that was not yet applied to the factory cars.
Not raced after the 1984 Le Mans, this 956 remains in a very good original condition. It is estimated $ 5.25M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Atlanta on October 27, lot 200.
Porsche returned to America in 1984 with the 962 which is a modified version of the 956.
In 1981 Fitzpatrick creates his team, the John Fitzpatrick Racing (JFR). In the same year the FIA defines the rules of its new Group C, to be applicable from the following year. For these competitions, Porsche develops the 956, the first car of the brand with an aluminum monocoque, and benefiting from aerodynamic studies improving cornering stability by using the ground effect.
From 1982 to 1985 25 units of the 956 are built. The goal is achieved : they dominate the Group C. The third factory car is second at Le Mans in 1982 and wins in 1983. It was sold for $ 10.1M including premium by Gooding on August 15, 2015.
In 1983 a 956 is bought new by JFR. It immediately enters Le Mans and the Norisring in Nuremberg. Unfortunately the FIA and IMSA safety rules are not fully compatible and all the 956 are excluded from IMSA competitions including Daytona and Sebring.
Fitzpatrick uses a 935 for the IMSA but his 956 is still part of the trip. Driven by him it wins its first American race, the Can-Am Road America. Before returning to Europe it is ranked 3rd at another Can-Am competition in Mosport, Canada. It is the unique 956 with an American history in period.
The best achievement of this car is its victory with Fitzpatrick and Warwick at the 1000 km of Brands Hatch in September of the same year. For that competition it benefited from an extension of the ventilation system that was not yet applied to the factory cars.
Not raced after the 1984 Le Mans, this 956 remains in a very good original condition. It is estimated $ 5.25M for sale by RM Sotheby's in Atlanta on October 27, lot 200.
Porsche returned to America in 1984 with the 962 which is a modified version of the 956.
1985 a porsche improved by privateers
2016 unsold
A Porsche 962 progressively improved by privateers from 1985 went to be the fastest car of that model in 1989 at a time when competition was increasing with Jaguar and Nissan.
This car was unsold on January 23, 2016 by Mecum in Kissimmee,lot S98. It is now estimated $ 1.8M by the same auction house inMonterey on August 20, lot S124.
I discussed it as follows before Kissimmee :
The Porsche 956, specifically designed for the Group C established in 1982 by the FIA, dominated the international competitions. One of them, winner at Le Mans in 1983, was sold for $ 10.1 million including premium by Gooding on August 15, 2015.
Porsche had one regret: the 956 cannot be registered for the IMSA GTP North American championship, including the Daytona 24 hours, whose security rules are not the same as those of Group C. A lengthening of the wheelbase is needed to bring back the pedal box behind the front axle. The new model, introduced in 1984, takes the reference 962.
The 962 appeals the American private teams. Jim Busby Racing will have four of them.
One of these 962 owned by Busby began its career very badly, by an accident at Daytona in 1985. It was nevertheless recoverable, and Busby used it to try improvements. Its early changes concern the aluminum structures, not stiff enough in the original Porsche design, for which the engineer Jim Chapman introduces honeycomb tub and milled plates.
Success is almost reached in 1988 with a pole position and second place at Daytona, behind a Jaguar. Busby had observed the aerodynamic efficiency of his Nissan competitors and once again modifies the body of his Porsche. The victory is now around the corner : driven by Bell, Wollek and Andretti, this 962 that now looks like no other wins in 1989 the 24 hours of Daytona.
Competition is progressing fast and the Daytona winning 962 retires after the five podium finishes of its 1988-1989 seasons.
Please watch the video shared by the auction house before the previous auction.
This car was unsold on January 23, 2016 by Mecum in Kissimmee,lot S98. It is now estimated $ 1.8M by the same auction house inMonterey on August 20, lot S124.
I discussed it as follows before Kissimmee :
The Porsche 956, specifically designed for the Group C established in 1982 by the FIA, dominated the international competitions. One of them, winner at Le Mans in 1983, was sold for $ 10.1 million including premium by Gooding on August 15, 2015.
Porsche had one regret: the 956 cannot be registered for the IMSA GTP North American championship, including the Daytona 24 hours, whose security rules are not the same as those of Group C. A lengthening of the wheelbase is needed to bring back the pedal box behind the front axle. The new model, introduced in 1984, takes the reference 962.
The 962 appeals the American private teams. Jim Busby Racing will have four of them.
One of these 962 owned by Busby began its career very badly, by an accident at Daytona in 1985. It was nevertheless recoverable, and Busby used it to try improvements. Its early changes concern the aluminum structures, not stiff enough in the original Porsche design, for which the engineer Jim Chapman introduces honeycomb tub and milled plates.
Success is almost reached in 1988 with a pole position and second place at Daytona, behind a Jaguar. Busby had observed the aerodynamic efficiency of his Nissan competitors and once again modifies the body of his Porsche. The victory is now around the corner : driven by Bell, Wollek and Andretti, this 962 that now looks like no other wins in 1989 the 24 hours of Daytona.
Competition is progressing fast and the Daytona winning 962 retires after the five podium finishes of its 1988-1989 seasons.
Please watch the video shared by the auction house before the previous auction.
1988 the porsche which was forbidden in america
2017 sold for € 1.96m including premium
Porsche likes to entice its customers by offering unprecedented technological advances on its high-end models. Under an undifferentiated bodywork compared to the 911, the Porsche 959 conceals sensational innovations regarding suspension and transmission. This car which was briefly the fastest commercial car of its time also had a perfect stability.
The 959 project was launched in 1981 but development was lagging behind. The cars were built in 1987 and 1988 in two variants, Komfort and Sport, for a total of 284 units including only 29 Sport. The Sport, 100 Kg lighter, may be compared with the Ferrari Competizione variants, stripped of equipment unnecessary for competition such as rear seat, air conditioning, audio installation.
The early termination of its production is in line with the use of this rolling wonder as a technological demonstrator : although it is on sale one of the most expensive cars of its time, Porsche had understood very early that it could not be profitable.
In these conditions, it is not a concern to Porsche that the new model does not comply with the anti-pollution regulations applicable in the United States : it will not be exported in that country and that's it. The Porsche 959 purchased by Bill Gates was kept for thirteen years by the San Francisco customs.
Over time the situation improves. In 1999 the Show and Display Act allows for a limited use the import of unapproved cars with technological or historical significance. Beginning in 2003 Canepa Design proposes the transformation of the 959 to comply with the emission rules.
Especially a car is classified as a collector vehicle in the United States when it reaches 25 years. The effect is noticeable on auction prices of the 959 after 2013. Here are three examples of this Porsche rush, observed in Gooding's sales : $ 1.5M in August 2014 for a Komfort over a lower estimate of $ 900K ; $ 1.7M for a Sport in January 2015 ; $ 1.73M for a Komfort in August 2015. These results include the premium.
On February 8 in Paris, RM Sotheby's sells a 959 Sport made in 1988, lot 131 estimated € 1.5M without reserve price. This car had been registered in the United States by its first owner who had foiled the vigilance of the administration (the catalog does not explain how he managed it ...). This car of exceptional originality has never undergone any modification.
Please watch the short video shared by RM.
The 959 project was launched in 1981 but development was lagging behind. The cars were built in 1987 and 1988 in two variants, Komfort and Sport, for a total of 284 units including only 29 Sport. The Sport, 100 Kg lighter, may be compared with the Ferrari Competizione variants, stripped of equipment unnecessary for competition such as rear seat, air conditioning, audio installation.
The early termination of its production is in line with the use of this rolling wonder as a technological demonstrator : although it is on sale one of the most expensive cars of its time, Porsche had understood very early that it could not be profitable.
In these conditions, it is not a concern to Porsche that the new model does not comply with the anti-pollution regulations applicable in the United States : it will not be exported in that country and that's it. The Porsche 959 purchased by Bill Gates was kept for thirteen years by the San Francisco customs.
Over time the situation improves. In 1999 the Show and Display Act allows for a limited use the import of unapproved cars with technological or historical significance. Beginning in 2003 Canepa Design proposes the transformation of the 959 to comply with the emission rules.
Especially a car is classified as a collector vehicle in the United States when it reaches 25 years. The effect is noticeable on auction prices of the 959 after 2013. Here are three examples of this Porsche rush, observed in Gooding's sales : $ 1.5M in August 2014 for a Komfort over a lower estimate of $ 900K ; $ 1.7M for a Sport in January 2015 ; $ 1.73M for a Komfort in August 2015. These results include the premium.
On February 8 in Paris, RM Sotheby's sells a 959 Sport made in 1988, lot 131 estimated € 1.5M without reserve price. This car had been registered in the United States by its first owner who had foiled the vigilance of the administration (the catalog does not explain how he managed it ...). This car of exceptional originality has never undergone any modification.
Please watch the short video shared by RM.
1995 The Fastest Road Car in the World
2013 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
When a wealthy customer wants better than anything that was done before him, the technology gets some momentum.Well known for watches, this phenomenon is rare for cars.
In 1990, an industrialist from the Emirates orders to Mercedes-Benz the world's fastest road car. Mercedes-Benz executes this project with one of its traditional partners for race cars, the German company Lotec.
There will be therefore no more than one single specimen of the Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000. Completed in 1995, it was sold for $ 3.4 million to its original customer. It is estimated $ 1M, for sale on November 2 by RK Motors (RKMCCA) in Charlotte NC in simulcast with Abu Dhabi.
Developing 1000 horsepower, the C1000 weighs only 1,080 kg thanks to its carbon fiber body. Its shape altogether massive and aerodynamic enables it in theory to reach 431 Km/h, which is 40 km/h more than its best competitor at that time, the McLaren F1.
Such speed is now comparable to that of the Bugatti Veyron supercars. Viewed from the United States, the C1000 is not, however, the world's fastest road car because it is now sold "on a bill of sale", certainly meaning that it does not meet some safety rules and has not the right to go as is on the road in that country.
I invite you to play the video shared in 2011 by Saabkyle04 on YouTube.
When a wealthy customer wants better than anything that was done before him, the technology gets some momentum.Well known for watches, this phenomenon is rare for cars.
In 1990, an industrialist from the Emirates orders to Mercedes-Benz the world's fastest road car. Mercedes-Benz executes this project with one of its traditional partners for race cars, the German company Lotec.
There will be therefore no more than one single specimen of the Lotec Mercedes-Benz C1000. Completed in 1995, it was sold for $ 3.4 million to its original customer. It is estimated $ 1M, for sale on November 2 by RK Motors (RKMCCA) in Charlotte NC in simulcast with Abu Dhabi.
Developing 1000 horsepower, the C1000 weighs only 1,080 kg thanks to its carbon fiber body. Its shape altogether massive and aerodynamic enables it in theory to reach 431 Km/h, which is 40 km/h more than its best competitor at that time, the McLaren F1.
Such speed is now comparable to that of the Bugatti Veyron supercars. Viewed from the United States, the C1000 is not, however, the world's fastest road car because it is now sold "on a bill of sale", certainly meaning that it does not meet some safety rules and has not the right to go as is on the road in that country.
I invite you to play the video shared in 2011 by Saabkyle04 on YouTube.
1997 Evolution by Porsche in GT
2016 SOLD for € 2.8M including premium
The international organizations that manage the motor sport are continuously oscillating between promoting prototypes and grand touring. Announced in 1994, the initiative of the BPR Global GT Series is highly appealing the manufacturers. From the 1997 season, the FIA takes back the direct control of these competitions. This phase prepares the supercar racings of the next decade.
Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, McLaren, Ferrari are strongly committed in these competitions that help their prestige. Two classes are defined, GT1 and GT2. In both classes, race cars must be based on a production model offered in at least 25 units. The difference between the two is that GT1 allows technological improvements in the racing version which is often identified with the Evolution or Evo wording.
The industrial challenge is so important that the organizers are tolerant for some interpretations of the rules. Mercedes-Benz has its CLK GTR approved in GT1 before the completion of the production model. Porsche goes further by developing its GT1 specifically for racing, the commercial model being no more than a consequence required from the rule.
The considerable interest in these competitions brings a very rapid change of the models, somehow hard to follow at Porsche that puts too many cars under the generic reference 911. In 1996, the first 911 GT1 version is based on the chassis 911(993) which will also be used in 1997 for the 911 GT1 Evolution. In the following year, the 911 GT1 Evolution will be a very different car built on the 911(996) chassis.
These frequent changes have a consequence that each specific model is a rarity. On May 14 in Monaco, RM Sotheby's sells a 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Evolution, lot 261 estimated € 2.7M. This car with a successful racing career is the only Evolution specimen from this model to have also been made road legal, confirming by its example that the qualification of Porsche in GT1 was less usurped than what its competitors wanted to denounce.
Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, McLaren, Ferrari are strongly committed in these competitions that help their prestige. Two classes are defined, GT1 and GT2. In both classes, race cars must be based on a production model offered in at least 25 units. The difference between the two is that GT1 allows technological improvements in the racing version which is often identified with the Evolution or Evo wording.
The industrial challenge is so important that the organizers are tolerant for some interpretations of the rules. Mercedes-Benz has its CLK GTR approved in GT1 before the completion of the production model. Porsche goes further by developing its GT1 specifically for racing, the commercial model being no more than a consequence required from the rule.
The considerable interest in these competitions brings a very rapid change of the models, somehow hard to follow at Porsche that puts too many cars under the generic reference 911. In 1996, the first 911 GT1 version is based on the chassis 911(993) which will also be used in 1997 for the 911 GT1 Evolution. In the following year, the 911 GT1 Evolution will be a very different car built on the 911(996) chassis.
These frequent changes have a consequence that each specific model is a rarity. On May 14 in Monaco, RM Sotheby's sells a 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Evolution, lot 261 estimated € 2.7M. This car with a successful racing career is the only Evolution specimen from this model to have also been made road legal, confirming by its example that the qualification of Porsche in GT1 was less usurped than what its competitors wanted to denounce.
1997 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK GTR
2021 unsold
The international organizations that manage the motor sport are continuously oscillating between promoting prototypes and grand touring. Announced in 1994, the initiative of the BPR Global GT Series is highly appealing the manufacturers. From the 1997 season, the FIA takes back the direct control of these competitions.
The GT1 class, created by the FIA for the 1997 season, had a rule that the racing models must be supported by a road going version with a minimum of 25 units. In that class the FIA encouraged specific improvements for racing, so differentiating significantly the GT1 from the other new class, the GT2. This rule generated some of the wonder cars of the period.
The industrial challenge is so important that the organizers are tolerant for some interpretations of the rules. Mercedes-Benz has its car approved in GT1 before the completion of the production model.
Mercedes-Benz was supported since 1967 for the high performance engineering and custom projects by their partner AMG, which will be fully owned by the corporate in 2005.
The model entered in 1997 in the GT1 is the Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK GTR, followed in 1998 by the Mercedes-Benz CLK LM. These racing cars were only loosely related to the new luxury mid size CLK class.
The industrial stake was important and the FIA tolerated that the first homologations did not wait for the street version.The supporting Strassenversion of the Mercedes-Benz is made of 20 coupes and 5 roadsters and titled 1998.
A coupe made in 1997 is estimated $ 8.5M for sale by Gooding in Pebble Beach on August 13, 2021, lot 50. It has less than 1,500 km from new. Its potential use in the USA is restricted by the safety rules of the NHTSA. It is illustrated in second position in the July 20 press release.
The success of the GTR and of the LM was so overwhelming that Porsche, McLaren, Ferrari and BMW gave up. The FIA GT1 and GT2 did not survive the 1998 season. These references will be revived later. Mercedes-Benz's ambitions in this class of competition are canceled in 1999 by the disastrous instability of the next model, the CLR.
The GT1 class, created by the FIA for the 1997 season, had a rule that the racing models must be supported by a road going version with a minimum of 25 units. In that class the FIA encouraged specific improvements for racing, so differentiating significantly the GT1 from the other new class, the GT2. This rule generated some of the wonder cars of the period.
The industrial challenge is so important that the organizers are tolerant for some interpretations of the rules. Mercedes-Benz has its car approved in GT1 before the completion of the production model.
Mercedes-Benz was supported since 1967 for the high performance engineering and custom projects by their partner AMG, which will be fully owned by the corporate in 2005.
The model entered in 1997 in the GT1 is the Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK GTR, followed in 1998 by the Mercedes-Benz CLK LM. These racing cars were only loosely related to the new luxury mid size CLK class.
The industrial stake was important and the FIA tolerated that the first homologations did not wait for the street version.The supporting Strassenversion of the Mercedes-Benz is made of 20 coupes and 5 roadsters and titled 1998.
A coupe made in 1997 is estimated $ 8.5M for sale by Gooding in Pebble Beach on August 13, 2021, lot 50. It has less than 1,500 km from new. Its potential use in the USA is restricted by the safety rules of the NHTSA. It is illustrated in second position in the July 20 press release.
The success of the GTR and of the LM was so overwhelming that Porsche, McLaren, Ferrari and BMW gave up. The FIA GT1 and GT2 did not survive the 1998 season. These references will be revived later. Mercedes-Benz's ambitions in this class of competition are canceled in 1999 by the disastrous instability of the next model, the CLR.
1998 The Race of the Supercars
2015 SOLD for £ 1.5M including premium
Mercedes-Benz is one of the leaders in the industry of the supercars. Developed from 1990 to 1995 on a private commission in cooperation with the Lotec company, a unique specimen reached 1,000 horsepower, 431 km / h (in theory) and $ 3.4 million at its price tag.
To prepare for the 1997 season, Mercedes-Benz is interested in the new FIA rules in the Grand Touring category. To be approved for these competitions, the model must also be available to private clients for road use. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz built 25 CLK GTR coupes at 600 hp.
This model has a follower in 1998 in the prestigious CLK GTR roadster with open top, at 640 hp. Built in 6 units, this model capable of reaching 320 km / h (in theory) immediately overcomes a world record that will be exceeded in 2005, that of the most expensive commercially available road car, slightly over $ 1.5 million.
Mercedes-Benz had kept until 2014 the first of these six roadsters, which was revised by them before being sold to an investor who did not intend to use it. This beautiful black car with only 8 km from new is estimated £ 1.4M for sale by Bonhams at Goodwood on June 26, lot 340.
After an interlude with the CLK LM, Mercedes-Benz's ambitions in this class of competition are destroyed in 1999 by the disastrous instability of the next model, the CLR, along with a further change in the rules of the FIA.
To prepare for the 1997 season, Mercedes-Benz is interested in the new FIA rules in the Grand Touring category. To be approved for these competitions, the model must also be available to private clients for road use. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz built 25 CLK GTR coupes at 600 hp.
This model has a follower in 1998 in the prestigious CLK GTR roadster with open top, at 640 hp. Built in 6 units, this model capable of reaching 320 km / h (in theory) immediately overcomes a world record that will be exceeded in 2005, that of the most expensive commercially available road car, slightly over $ 1.5 million.
Mercedes-Benz had kept until 2014 the first of these six roadsters, which was revised by them before being sold to an investor who did not intend to use it. This beautiful black car with only 8 km from new is estimated £ 1.4M for sale by Bonhams at Goodwood on June 26, lot 340.
After an interlude with the CLK LM, Mercedes-Benz's ambitions in this class of competition are destroyed in 1999 by the disastrous instability of the next model, the CLR, along with a further change in the rules of the FIA.
2000 a coupe after the race
2016 unsold
The FIA did not give up the old idea of a competition class that can be used to support the sales of high-end cars. The GT1 category was announced in 1996 for a start on the following year. Its specifications allow improvements that will not serve the basic model, including specific materials, improved aerodynamics, larger brakes and wider tires.
Mercedes-Benz cheers the GT1 as a great showcase to promote its supercars against McLaren and Ferrari. The release in just a few months of the CLK GTR would prove that discussions with the FIA had lasted for a significant time. The GT1 is close to a prototype category for which the returns on investment are not a foregone conclusion and Chrysler, for example, did not venture there.
The GT1 regulations require a population of 25 road homologated cars. Mercedes-Benz gets the GT1 approval even before the production model is available but achieves afterward the compliance. Between 1998 and 2000, 25 coupes and 6 roadsters are built. These road cars that support the GT1 version are in their time the most expensive cars on the market: around $ 1M for the coupe and $ 1.5M for the roadster.
A CLK GTR roadster was sold for £ 1.5M including premium by Bonhams on June 26, 2015. A coupe dated 2000 is estimated € 1.8M for sale by Bonhams in Paris on February 4, lot 352.
Mercedes-Benz cheers the GT1 as a great showcase to promote its supercars against McLaren and Ferrari. The release in just a few months of the CLK GTR would prove that discussions with the FIA had lasted for a significant time. The GT1 is close to a prototype category for which the returns on investment are not a foregone conclusion and Chrysler, for example, did not venture there.
The GT1 regulations require a population of 25 road homologated cars. Mercedes-Benz gets the GT1 approval even before the production model is available but achieves afterward the compliance. Between 1998 and 2000, 25 coupes and 6 roadsters are built. These road cars that support the GT1 version are in their time the most expensive cars on the market: around $ 1M for the coupe and $ 1.5M for the roadster.
A CLK GTR roadster was sold for £ 1.5M including premium by Bonhams on June 26, 2015. A coupe dated 2000 is estimated € 1.8M for sale by Bonhams in Paris on February 4, lot 352.
2010 The Dazzling Koenigsegg
2017 unsold
At the early age of 5 Christian von Koenigsegg states that one day he will make the best car in the world. He creates the brand that bears his name at the age of 22 in 1994. The factory located in a very small town in south Sweden employs around 80 people.
The continuous improvement of the high-tech and the extreme care in all details have made it possible to meet the target of the boss. As early as 2005 a Koenigsegg CCR is the fastest production car in the world with a top speed at 388 km/h. Since then this prestigious record alternates between Koenigsegg, Bugatti and McLaren.
Koenigsegg joins the upper standard to the extreme speed. To terminate his CC range of models he announced in 2009 that the CCXR Trevita will be the most expensive road car in the world with an advertised price of $ 5M but only three cars will be produced.
Trevita means 'three white' in Swedish. The particularity of this variant is to use a dazzling white carbon fiber developed by the engineers of the company. The physicochemical process is operational but too complicated to apply. From the three cars originally planned two only are built, in 2010.
Only one of the two cars is compatible with the US safety regulations. It is discussed at its beginning by Jay Leno and Christian von Koenigsegg in a very interesting video recently reissued by Jay Leno's Garage. The two men demonstrate the car inside the Californian traffic.
In 2015 the American Trevita is bought in a private sale by the boxing champion Floyd Mayweather, a great collector of supercars, an eccentric figure and arguably the richest sportsman in the world. The price reported to the press after this transaction was $ 4.8M.
Mayweather did not keep it long as it now comes from another garage. It is estimated $ 2.7M for sale by Mecum in Monterey on August 19, lot S94. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
POST SALE COMMENT
The result at $ 2.6M before fees was tweeted by Mecum during the sale and included after the Saturday session in the online catalogue. Two days later the result had been withdrawn and the lot in not included in the top ten of the sale.
The continuous improvement of the high-tech and the extreme care in all details have made it possible to meet the target of the boss. As early as 2005 a Koenigsegg CCR is the fastest production car in the world with a top speed at 388 km/h. Since then this prestigious record alternates between Koenigsegg, Bugatti and McLaren.
Koenigsegg joins the upper standard to the extreme speed. To terminate his CC range of models he announced in 2009 that the CCXR Trevita will be the most expensive road car in the world with an advertised price of $ 5M but only three cars will be produced.
Trevita means 'three white' in Swedish. The particularity of this variant is to use a dazzling white carbon fiber developed by the engineers of the company. The physicochemical process is operational but too complicated to apply. From the three cars originally planned two only are built, in 2010.
Only one of the two cars is compatible with the US safety regulations. It is discussed at its beginning by Jay Leno and Christian von Koenigsegg in a very interesting video recently reissued by Jay Leno's Garage. The two men demonstrate the car inside the Californian traffic.
In 2015 the American Trevita is bought in a private sale by the boxing champion Floyd Mayweather, a great collector of supercars, an eccentric figure and arguably the richest sportsman in the world. The price reported to the press after this transaction was $ 4.8M.
Mayweather did not keep it long as it now comes from another garage. It is estimated $ 2.7M for sale by Mecum in Monterey on August 19, lot S94. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
POST SALE COMMENT
The result at $ 2.6M before fees was tweeted by Mecum during the sale and included after the Saturday session in the online catalogue. Two days later the result had been withdrawn and the lot in not included in the top ten of the sale.
2019-2020 Megacars by Koenigsegg
2021 both unsold
Since its creation in 1994, Koenigsegg pursues its goal of producing the most efficient car in the world. Each model brings major technological innovations. The Agera series, which was the top of the range in 2013, has been terminated in 2018. The new models differ according to their use : the Regera, unveiled in 2015, is for the road and the Jesko, announced in 2020, for the track.
The Regera is first hybrid-powered model of the brand. Its innovations include the elimination of the gearbox and the fully remote-controlled handling of doors and hoods.
The Jesko Absolut, currently in development, may well become the first production car to reach the mythical threshold of 500 km/h. Since 2019 a Regera is holding the acceleration-deceleration record with 22.87 seconds to reach 400 km/h and 8.62 seconds for the braking, in a total travel of 2,050 meters.
The Regera also marks a better attention paid by the brand to comfort. It paves the way for a four-seater Mega-GT, the Gemera, which is currently in development. Planned in 300 units, a considerable figure for this manufacturer, the Gemera marks its new industrial ambition without giving up the extreme performance.
The production of the Regera is limited to 80 cars which were all sold. For those who have not seized that opportunity, a magnificent 2019 Regera in crystal white with less than 200 miles from new will be sold by RM Sotheby's in Scottsdale on January 22, lot 165 estimated $ 2.6M.
A 2020 Regera is estimated $ 2.75M for sale by Gooding ending on January 22, lot 44 in 'Scottsdale edition' online sale.
The Regera is first hybrid-powered model of the brand. Its innovations include the elimination of the gearbox and the fully remote-controlled handling of doors and hoods.
The Jesko Absolut, currently in development, may well become the first production car to reach the mythical threshold of 500 km/h. Since 2019 a Regera is holding the acceleration-deceleration record with 22.87 seconds to reach 400 km/h and 8.62 seconds for the braking, in a total travel of 2,050 meters.
The Regera also marks a better attention paid by the brand to comfort. It paves the way for a four-seater Mega-GT, the Gemera, which is currently in development. Planned in 300 units, a considerable figure for this manufacturer, the Gemera marks its new industrial ambition without giving up the extreme performance.
The production of the Regera is limited to 80 cars which were all sold. For those who have not seized that opportunity, a magnificent 2019 Regera in crystal white with less than 200 miles from new will be sold by RM Sotheby's in Scottsdale on January 22, lot 165 estimated $ 2.6M.
A 2020 Regera is estimated $ 2.75M for sale by Gooding ending on January 22, lot 44 in 'Scottsdale edition' online sale.
2018 The Golden Porsche
2018 SOLD for $ 3.4M including premium
To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Porsche brand, there is nothing better than a 911, still in production through many variants since the first generation in 1964. The millionth 911 has been released in 2017.
The 911 (993), produced from 1993 to 1998, is an important step in that lineage. Its Turbo version is the final 911 equipped with a six-cylinder flat engine with air cooling. Its 60 mph in 3.7 seconds was a remarkable performance for its time. Later models have water cooling.
Porsche keeps a spare parts bank very carefully. The shell used as a straightening reference for this model was still available in the plant. The engineers came up with the idea of using it as a bodywork to build a car benefiting from technological advances over the last two decades. This ultimate 993 relies essentially on the original parts of the model and is thus a demonstrator of the brand's know-how in the repair of classic models.
This car built in 2018 is and will remain unique, and is not homologated for the road. It is painted by electrolysis in orange, specifically identified as metallic gold yellow, and is named Project Gold. With its new turbo 6-cylinder 3.6-liter engine it is the most powerful 993, developing 42 hp more and 45 Nm more than the 993 Turbo.
The Project Gold car will be sold without reserve price by RM Sotheby's as lot 220 in the anniversary sale to be held on October 27 at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta. Beyond the reimbursement of expenses incurred for the manufacturer, the proceeds of this lot is for the benefit of the new Ferry Porsche Foundation, a German charity supporting the youth.
The 911 (993), produced from 1993 to 1998, is an important step in that lineage. Its Turbo version is the final 911 equipped with a six-cylinder flat engine with air cooling. Its 60 mph in 3.7 seconds was a remarkable performance for its time. Later models have water cooling.
Porsche keeps a spare parts bank very carefully. The shell used as a straightening reference for this model was still available in the plant. The engineers came up with the idea of using it as a bodywork to build a car benefiting from technological advances over the last two decades. This ultimate 993 relies essentially on the original parts of the model and is thus a demonstrator of the brand's know-how in the repair of classic models.
This car built in 2018 is and will remain unique, and is not homologated for the road. It is painted by electrolysis in orange, specifically identified as metallic gold yellow, and is named Project Gold. With its new turbo 6-cylinder 3.6-liter engine it is the most powerful 993, developing 42 hp more and 45 Nm more than the 993 Turbo.
The Project Gold car will be sold without reserve price by RM Sotheby's as lot 220 in the anniversary sale to be held on October 27 at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta. Beyond the reimbursement of expenses incurred for the manufacturer, the proceeds of this lot is for the benefit of the new Ferry Porsche Foundation, a German charity supporting the youth.
