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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Edward Jones – April 17, 2017

Buy Cars From The Big Screen At This Auction

Tiger Group will conduct an online-only sale on April 27th of approximately 200 classic autos, muscle cars, specialty and other vehicles no longer needed for the continuing operations of Picture Car Warehouse, which for more than 20 years has been a leading provider of specialty vehicles for the motion picture, television, TV commercial and video industries. The assets also include hot rods, customs, period cars and motorcycles that have appeared in dozens of motion pictures, commercials, and television shows. Spare parts will also be available.Online bidding for the vehicles will commence April 20 at www.SoldTiger.com. Bidding will close in rapid succession, live auction style, on April 27 at 10:30 a.m. (PT). All bidders are required to register prior to the sale at www.SoldTiger.com. Previews of the assets will be held on April 26, from10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (PT), in two California locations: at 18959 Parthenia Rd., Northridge, and at 34855 Petersen Rd., in Agua Dulce.“As Picture Car Warehouse makes room for new acquisitions, individuals, collectors and production companies can take advantage of this unique opportunity to purchase these exceptional vehicles associated with movies and other productions,” said Jeff Tanenbaum, President of Tiger Group’s Commercial & Industrial division. “It’s also a rare opportunity for the general public to purchase a car from their favorite movie or show.”Picture Car Warehouse has provided vehicles for dozens of motion pictures and television shows, including Rush Hour 3, The Bucket List, Grindhouse, Taxi, The Runaways, Beverly Hills Cop, Pee-Wee's Big Holiday, The Town, Faster, Vampire Diaries, Sons of Anarchy, Seven Psychopaths, Nightcrawlers, Entourage, Mad Men, The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons, Straight Outta Compton, Agent Carter, Rosewood, Caged Heat, Monk, Grey's Anatomy, Dexter, Agents of Shield, Reno 911, plus ads for Allstate, Budweiser, and Chevrolet to name but a few.The offering includes classic vehicles like Ford, Chevy and Dodge box, panel, and tow trucks from the 1940s; a 1956 Desoto, a 1965 Harley Davidson Chopper, and a 1966 “427” Corvette. Muscle cars, hot rods and other vehicles up for bid include a 1967 Chevelle SS with a frame-off restoration, a 1990 ZR-1 Corvette with 75 original miles, Camaros, Mustangs, and Firebirds; and motorcycles by names like Harley Davidson, Suzuki and Kawasaki.Vehicles from the 1970s through the 2000s include Crown Vics, Impala SS clones, Rabbit convertibles, Gremlins, Chargers, and a Hummer H2. Pickup trucks, station wagons, trailers, and vans will also be available.Specialty vehicles up for bid include a 1961 Lincoln “Bud Light” limo, a 1963 “Madmen” John Deere mower, Unimogs, camera cars, ambulances, armored cars, news vans, a 2002 Gem Truckster, custom motorcycles, and more.For a full catalog of the items offered and details on how to schedule a site visit and bid, go to: www.SoldTiger.com.View Auctions

By Edward Jones – April 04, 2017

First Retail 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE to be Auctione...

Want to be the first one to own a 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE? Then you better head to the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction, because that's where the first one will be auctioned off.The auction company announced on March 30 that they will be auctioning off the rights for the first retail production example of the upcoming ZL1 1LE at their Palm Beach event. If history has anything to say about this, Rick Hendrick may be the one that will snatch this up for a high price. However, no matter how much it sells for, 100 percent of the hammer proceeds will go to United Way.This new ZL1 1LE is the most track-capable Camaro that Chevrolet has ever created. Its aerodynamics, suspension, light weight, wheels, and tires were all optimized for the track. One of the most notable modifications on the new ZL1 1LE has to be the carbon fiber rear wing, which helps it stand out from the rest of the Camaros. Under its hood is a supercharged LT4 engine capable of 650 horsepower. Mated to this engine is a six-speed manual transmission.Be sure to stay with us to see just how much this car sells for after the auction April 6-8.

By Edward Jones – December 01, 2016

Lengedary Jaguar Set to Sell for Almost $10 Million

Everyone knows that classic Ferraris can sell for massive amounts of money, but what about Jaguars? The English automaker has a long history of iconic automobiles, with one in particular set to cross Bonham's Scottsdale auction block.The 1963 Jaguar E-Type Lightweight Competition, number S850667, was the tenth of the twelve Factory Lightweights that were ever built. This specific car also won the 1963 Australian GT Championship. It's also very well-documented, is very original and, get this, it has less than 4,000 original miles recorded with just three owners from new. Yeah, we're talking about a car from 1963.(Related - So Close: Jaguar E-Type Barely Misses Crashing Into $40 Million Ferrari)According to Bonhams: "This example has been out of the public eye for most of its life and comes recently from a private collection where it has resided since 1999. Its condition, too, is incredibly noteworthy with original finish visible in most areas, including almost all the interior. To have a competition car, and a championship winner at that, in such original condition is unheard of today."So, how much will it be sold for? Bonhams reckons it has an estimated auction price of $7,500,000-$8,000,000. If sold for this price, it will sit below the hammer price of 1955 Jaguar D-Type (CHASSIS NO. XKD 501) sold at RM Sotheby's 2016 Monterey auction, which was $21,780.000. Be sure to check back with us to see how much this 1963 Jaguar E-Type Lightweight Competition sells for at Bonhams' Scottsdale Auction taking place on Thursday, January 19, 2017.All Jaguar For Sale

By Edward Jones – October 10, 2016

RM Sotheby's Hershey 2016 Official Results

RM Sotheby's recently held their 10th anniversary Hershey event in Pennsylvania and it's being marked as an incredible success. Held October 6-7 during the AACA Eastern Fall Meet, the auction company sold 90 percent of their lots, including a series of cars that were being offered just out of long-term ownership. The total for the two-evening event totalled out in excess of $11.58 million.Below are the top ten results from the event, including a stunning 1930 Duesenberg that sold for over $2 million.View Full Results 10. 1937 Lincoln-Zephyr Coupe - $187,000 9. 1932 Cadillac V-16 Five-Passenger Sedan - $220,000 8. 1937 Packard Twelve Convertible Sedan - $275,000 7. 1927 Duesenberg Model A/Y Phaeton Prototype (Chassis 912) - $340,000 6. 1957 Porsche 356 A 1600 Speedster - $341,000 5. 1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41 Convertible Victoria - $456,500 4. 1932 Lincoln Model KB Boattail Speedster - $605,000 3. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster - $825,000 2. 1935 Auburn Eight Supercharged Speedster - $880,000 1. 1930 Duesenberg Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton - $2,090,000 View More Sports Cars For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 29, 2016

Top 10 Sales from Russo & Steele Monterey 2016

With an event that has outgrown the Monterey waterfront, Russo & Steele have set new records for collector car prices. What started as an open air event at the Fisherman's Wharf parking lot has evolved into a must-see event of the weekend. Under tents that would leave PT Barnum speechless, they brought together 250 of the world's most sought after automobiles, We told you what to expect a few weeks ago, but now the final numbers are in. Here are the most notable sales of the event: 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL With only 17,443 miles, the only restoration needed was new chrome plating on the bumpers. Numbers matching examples of these cars are becoming very hard to find, which is why it was able to bring $1,050,105. 2004 Ford GT Prototype As the final validation of their engineering efforts, Ford's design team and assembly workers signed the underside of the hood of this significant car. Built as the final prototype, it was the last pre-production Ford GT built before official production began. It was used to validate the assembly line techniques and to ensure the electrical system could perform as a daily driver. Most GTs have been well cared for in climate controlled garages, but Ford's SVT division racked up almost 50,000 miles in testing. It sold for $836,000. 1993 Jaguar XJ220 Supercars of the 90's are intimidating because they delivered incredible power with none of the modern stability systems we're accustomed to. The XJ220 is just such an example. With a twin turbo 3.5L V6, it offers 540 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque at all wheels. As such, the owner only amassed 871 kilometers (541 miles) since new. Capable of running with the fastest cars in the world, it sold for $435,000 2014 Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series When AMG is given free reign to design the ultimate GT car, their menacing builds are known as the Black Series. In the quest for aerodynamic dominance, the track focused SLS AMG GT trades civility for downforce with carbon fiber spoilers. Since the new AMG GT models are based on the 4.0L twin turbo engine, the SLS might be the last big 6.3L naturally aspirated model. $418,000 2009 Ferrari 16M Built to celebrate Ferrari's 16th victory as a Formula1 constructor, the 16M is more than just a fancy F430. Only 499 cars were built, and they are as close to a street-legal race car as you will get. The interior is all carbon fiber and the exhaust is unrestricted. Capable of reaching 62 mph in 3.7 seconds, it stands as one of the most significant production cars in recent history. $355,000 1970 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 The first production Ferrari with power steering and power brakes, the 365 was a more practical cruiser than its predecessors. Instead of a rear mounted transaxle, the 365 placed the transmission behind the engine in a conventional layout. This allowed for ample trunk space and room for rear passengers. Originally owned by a famous Hollywood producer, it sold for $346,500 1988 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV The car that brought Lamborghini into the modern era, this Countach was ordered with every option. The first Countach to offer 4 valves per cylinder, the new 5.1L version of their venerable V12 did away with carburetors in favor of Bosch fuel injection. With only 18,469 miles, it is a time capsule of 80's excess. $321,750 1957 Porsche 356 Restored to an exceedingly high standard including the factory-specified color combination, this 1957 356 Speedster is complete with documentation. An outstanding original car from San Diego, California was the foundation used to begin a stunning restoration by Porsche marque specialists in Newport Beach, California. $250,000 2000 Ferrari 550 Maranello For the discerning buyer who needs a manual transmission, this well-preserved example has only 3,781 miles. The stunning & sensuous lines of Pininfarina are combined with a 5.5L V12 in a combination that we might not see again. $194,700 1955 Facel-Vega FV1 As a signal to the world that France was recovering from the war, Facel-Vega combined a Chrysler HEMI V8 with gorgeous coachwork. $181,500.00 Stay with us, as Russo & Steele will be previewing their Scottsdale event in the near future.

By Edward Jones – August 22, 2016

Mecum's Top 10 Monterey Sales: Multiple Multi-Million Dol...

From August 18-20 in Monterey, Mecum hosted one of their finest auctions yet and it included some of the rarest cars in the world. The auction itself was held at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa, which created a perfect atmosphere for the amazing cars that ranged from classics to modern hypercars.Below are the top ten sales from their auction, including multiple multi-million dollar sales. What's more, seven out of these ten sales were hammered down at $1 million and more.Check out the list below, and click the "Learn More" buttons to learn more about specific cars. 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari 1 of 3 in Nero DS Opaco, 211 Original MilesSold for $4,700,000 Learn More 1966 Ford GT40 MkI First Road Car Delivered to North AmericaSold for $4,400,000 Learn More 2003 Ferrari Enzo One Owner and 2,050 MilesSold for $3,000,000 2014 McLaren P1 3.8/903 HP Hybrid, 576 Miles, Serial No. 2Sold for $1,850,000 Learn More 2005 Porsche Carrera GT 5.7/605 HP, 6-Speed, 152 MilesSold for $1,050,000 Learn More 2011 Ferrari 599 SA Aperta 6.0/661 HP V-12, 1 of 80 ProducedSold for $1,050,000 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 8.0/1001 HP W-16, 3,839 MilesSold for $1,000,000 Learn More 1965 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster CSX2549, Rare AutomaticSold for $950,000 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 S/N 3315, Same Owner Since 1985Sold for $790,000 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO 6.0/661 HP V-12, 1,965 MilesSold for $680,000

By Edward Jones – August 15, 2016

152-Original-Mile Porsche Carrera GT Headed to Monterey

In 2004, Porsche dropped a bombshell known as the Carrera GT. To the world, this new supercar was a display of the extremes Porsche could go to. To German automaker, the Carrera GT was a prototype that they couldn't shelve.The Carrera GT for sale started off as a Le Mans prototype car with the designation of "9R3." It carried a 5.7-liter V10 engine that could produce 605 horsepower. For the early 2000's, this amount of power was incredible. Porsche planned on using the car in the 2000 Le Mans season, but due to the engineering team being pulled towards development of the Cayenne, Porsche abandoned the racing program for 9R3. But seeing the potential for the car, the automaker decided to just homologate the project as a production car: the Carrera GT.Introduced in 2004, as stated before, the German supercar took the world by storm. One of the first aspects noticed about the car was that it was made for the driver and the driver alone. Its racing heritage showed in the absence of electronic stability control and the need for constant attention. The Carrera GT is regarded as one of the most difficult cars to drive, this is because engineers wanted the car to be a pure driving experience. There is not automatic transmission; no electronic assists; no safety net. It's just the driver, the car and the road.This example, being offered by Mecum at their Monterey auction as Lot S74, has only 152 original miles. With such low mileage, this may be one o the closest-to-new examples of the German supercar available. It comes with a Basalt Black finish and a Dark Grey interior, giving the car a fitting sinister appeal. If you're interested in owning one of just 604 Carrera GT's imported into the U.S., and one that is nearly new, be sure to check out Mecum's showcase during Monterey Car Week starting August 18.View Lot Porsche For Sale Houston

By Edward Jones – August 12, 2016

Blade Silver McLaren 570S Headed to Monterey Lineup

One of McLaren's latest and greatest, the 570S, finished in Blade Silver is headed to Monterey Car Week.A bit of new English technology is heading to Monterey in the form of a 2016 McLaren 570S. Finished in the striking Blade Silver paint, this import has only 289 miles clocked on the odometer since new. Is it in impeccable condition? You bet. But it's not just the low-mileage that makes this car fantastic-- its capabilities and performance pedigree make this car a highly sought after machine.Powering the car is McLaren's twin-turbo M3838TE 3.8-liter V8 engine, which won the Engine of the Year award for its engine size from 2013-2015. This engine provides the wheels with 562 hp and 442 lb-ft to work with, which results in a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds and 0-124 mph in 9.5 seconds. The 570S will also provide enough thrust to reach a top speed of 204 mph.Headed to Monterey is this exquisite example. On the outside, its Blade Silver finish contrasts beautifully with the carbon accents of the aero blades, side skirts and rear diffuser. Keeping this gorgeous body above the pavement are 10-spoke wheels that are 19-inches in the front and 20-inches in the rear. On the inside is a Saddle leather interior that's luxurious, yet sporty. From the comfort of their leather seat, the driver can not only drive the car and control the 7-inch infotainment center with ease but also select one of the multiple driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track.If you're someone who enjoys the finer details of British engineering or just like going fast, be sure to check out Mecum's Monterey auction starting August 18. This 570S will be featured in their lineup as Lot S66.Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – August 05, 2016

Russo and Steele Monterey 2016 Preview

Once again for 2016, Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions is presenting an exciting and diverse selection of collector automobiles during this year’s installment of Monterey California’s world renowned collector car week. As a central component of car week’s festivities going back 16 years, Russo and Steele’s action packed event has become one that those “in the know” consider to be a can’t miss engagement. Part sporting event, part concert, part cocktail party and all about the best quality collector automobiles available to the broadest spectrum of collectors and enthusiasts alike, Russo and Steele offers a high impact, “Auctions in the Round” style experience that can be achieved nowhere else in the world. Held again from the companies beautiful and exclusive location on the waterfront at Downtown Monterey’s historic Fisherman’s Wharf, this year’s event, taking place August 18-20, will feature a handpicked selection of European sports cars, American muscle cars, hot rods, customs and late model exotics and promises to deliver another signature experience that will continue to make Russo and Steele one of the most talked about automotive lifestyle events in Monterey for yet another year.View All Vehicles Leading the charge for Russo and Steele’s 2016 Monterey line-up are: #7125 2015 Porsche 918 Weissach Owned by legendary racing outfit Team Rahal, this incredibly rare Viper Green 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach is a technical and performance tour de force. Powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.6 litre V8 engine, developing 608 horsepower, with two electric motors delivering an additional 279 metric horsepower for a combined output of 887 horsepower, the 918 boasts a top speed of 210 mph and runs 0-60 in an absolutely scorching 2.2 seconds. In September 2013 a 918 Weissach utterly obliterated the Nürburgring’s previous lap record by a shocking 14 seconds, turning a time of just 6:57 on the 12.8 mi road course, making it the first series production street-legal car ever to break the 7-minute barrier. Originally the darling of the 80th Geneva Motor Show in March 2010, the 918 is a highly limited production automotive masterpiece that will only continue its rocket ship appreciation in value into the future.View Listing #7012 2004 Ford GT PB2-1 Originally assigned to Manufacturing and designated for mileage accumulation and electrical prove-out, PB2-1 is the first example produced in the second prototype run of the exciting Ford GT Supercar. After successfully completing its testing cycle, PB2-1 was transferred to Product Development at SVT and briefly used as the program vehicle for the planned Ford GT Mk II follow-on program. During this phase, PB2-1 was equipped with a prototype small-diameter pulley for greater supercharger boost, with this part later offered separately for sale by Ford Racing. Exhaust manifold heat shields, printed with "Mark II," and a "Ford GT" logo fuel-filler cap were also added to the car. Original testing equipment on PB2-1 also included a roll bar which has been removed from the car while the attachment points remain in place. This is an incredible opportunity to acquire a true and extremely exclusive piece of Blue Oval performance history.View Listing #7100 1993 Jaguar XJ220 Finished in rare and highly exotic Monza Red, this beautiful 1993 Jaguar XJ220 benefits from a gentle life of pampered and enthusiastic preservation-minded use. Currently displaying just 871 kilometers (541 miles), this flagship supercar offers showroom cosmetic quality and mechanical condition and is surely one of the most finely preserved examples available anywhere in the world today. Featuring near time capsule level low mileage and a perfect ownership history, it marks a once in a lifetime discovery that most certainly qualifies it as an important piece of road going automotive performance history. An undeniably rare and incredibly exciting example of Jaguar's fastest street machine, it would make a magical addition to any collection of modern or classic performance cars.View Listing #7115 2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano This stunningly beautiful Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a highly desirable example featuring a 6-speed manual transmission mated to an ultra-sophisticated 610 horsepower, front mounted V12 power plant. As the designated replacement for the 575M Maranello, the 599 was styled by the legendary Pininfarina design house under the direction of Ferrari's Frank Stephenson. Named for its total engine displacement (5999 cc), Gran Turismo Berlinetta nature, and the Fiorano Circuit test track used by Ferrari, it is believed to be 1 of only 20 in the United States. As offered, this exquisitely sculpted example of Maranello’s commitment to flagship exceptionalism comes complete with clean Carfax and Autocheck reports.View Listing #7010 1965 Shelby GT350 This very special Shelby is 1 of 562 first-year GT350s built for 1965. It is a true matching numbers example with Ford VIN and Shelby serial numbers confirmed by the SAAC, fully documented in the Shelby American World Registry and includes copies of the original delivery documents to Tasca Ford. Meticulously restored, it retains its original 289/306 HP V-8 and aluminum-case Borg-Warner T-10 4-speed transmission. In addition to the first-year Shelby features, it is equipped with the trunk-mounted battery seen on only the first 300 cars built plus Shelby/Cragar wheels. It marks a truly exceptional example of Shelby’s most sought after version of the legendary GT350.View Listing #7038 1959 Tojeiro California/TCAL59 Barcheta In 1959, the famous car designer and builder John Tojeiro, most recognized for his work on the AC Ace, which later became the Cobra, began creating of one of his last front engine sports cars. The new car incorporated a tube frame structure similar to the early Ecurie Ecosse Tojeiro Jaguar that ran at Le Mans, but with updates. Initially, John built a chassis to replace the crashed Ecurie Ecosse racer from an accident at the Nürburgring and a second one, the car offered here, intended for a Ferrari California-style body by Cavendish Morton. This outstanding and beautiful offering represents an “end of an era” creation from one of automotive history’s most critical designers.View Listing #7035 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet This exceptional, numbers matching 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet presents beautifully in its original hues of silver over black. Interior is original and in near flawless condition and the car features floor shift, air conditioning, and power windows with factory data card illustrating included options. The engine was removed and the body stripped and beautifully painted a few years ago and the engine compartment was painted and the engine fully detailed to like new standards. This highly luxurious and exclusive offering brilliantly represents the virtues of excellent maintenance, low mileage and enthusiast ownership.View Listing #7016 1970 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 Very well-documented and presented in handsome factory colors, this sleek, powerful and fast 1970 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 is a very fine example of the prancing horse’s best classic V-12 GT model. One of as few as 800 examples produced, this highly desirable left-hand drive, U.S.-specification model was sold new via Maranello Concessionaires in the UK to first owner Albert R. "Cubby" Broccoli, the film producer of James Bond movie fame. Accompanied by UK "ARB 007" number plate. This wonderful classic Ferrari comes very well equipped, documented, presented, and coupled with its important ownership history, presents an interesting and highly collectible enthusiast’s investment opportunity! View Listing #7029 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster Restored to an exceedingly high standard including the factory-specified color combination, this 1957 356 Speedster is complete with documentation. An outstanding original car from San Diego, California was the foundation used to begin a stunning restoration by Porsche marque specialists in Newport Beach, California. No other car stirs up images of speed and adventure quite like Porsche's elemental 356 Speedster and this example is outstanding and investment-grade!View Listing #7057 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T SE Convertible Already extremely rare, this 440 Six-Pack, 4-speed 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T SE Convertible has all the right options including a Pistol Grip shifter. Adding to its allure, it is one of only two known to exist in its stunning Hi-Impact Go Mango over black color combination. It is heavily optioned per the original Broadcast Sheet including Track Pack with Dana 60, rare leather seats, molding group, tinted glass, chrome racing mirrors, hood pins, bumper guards, power top, 8-Track, and Rallye wheels. A fully restored example with matching numbers body and engine, fender tag, rare SE trim, it is a magazine-feature car with the fender tag decoded by Mopar aficionado Galen Govier.View Listing #7060 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Monospecchio This rare early "Monospecchio" Ferrari Testarossa is a one-owner, 3,700-mile example. Accompanied by Carfax and Autocheck reports, it is an original U.S. delivery Testarossa and features iconic Rosso Corsa over Tan leather and includes all original books, tools, jack, proper folding keys, and pouch. Coming from a prominent Ferrari enthusiast's long-term stewardship, this Testarossa is sorted and ready to use in a way that few, if any, are and is equally ready to compete in a preservation class concours events.View Listing #7011 1970 Chevy Corvette ZR1 This absolutely stunning ‎Classic White on Blue 1970 ‎Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is one of just 25 examples of this ultimate small block Corvette produced for 1970. Even more incredibly, it was ordered as a ‎convertible. Essentially a small-block LT1 version of the L88, it features identical chassis preparation, brakes, cooling, and accessory deletions. Powered by the mighty LT1 solid-lifter small-block fitted with a heavy-duty L88 starter and lightweight flywheel, mated to the famous Muncie M22 "Rock Crusher" 4-speed, it also features RPO J56 Heavy-Duty brakes, and larger-diameter front and rear sway bars, which additionally are all L88 equipment. It recently received an extensive mechanical restoration and detailing in 2015, earning it an NCRS Top Flight award and Bloomington Gold Certification. This amazingly well-presented ‎ZR1 Corvette is a unique investment opportunity and would be a highlight of any serious collection.View Listing Experience all the high energy excitement of Russo and Steele in Monterey for yourself! Bidder registration is just $200 and includes admission for all 3 days of exclusive “Auction in the Round” action for the bidder and one lucky guest. Join Russo and Steele as they continue to present the hottest nights in Monterey, August 18-20 at the Downtown Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf. Auction previews run daily from 10:00 AM with auctions beginning at 5:00 PM. Be sure to contact Russo and Steele for advance bidder registration and accommodations or to register your premium consignment today.For updated information regarding the Monterey 2016 auction and additional information on the exciting selection of featured collector automobiles they are busy assembling, visit Russo & Steele’s official website at www.russoandsteele.com. For further supporting documentation, high-resolution images or more advance information, please contact Darin Roberge at darin@russoandsteele.com.

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 10, 2016

Carlisle Events Gears Up for Winter Florida Autofest in L...

Carlisle Event's Winter Florida Autofest Lakeland event will kick off the 2016 auction season for Carlisle Events, but with a sold out 2015 fall event and over 400 cars for auction, Carlisle has high hopes for their 2016 season. The Lakeland event, scheduled for February 25-28th, is slated for the spacious Sun N Fun Complex in Lakeland, Florida. We had the opportunity to speak with Carlisle's Auction Manager, Dave McCoy.McCoy states the winter Lakeland event will have over 400 cars for auction, and includes a healthy sampling of every level. "Anything from the entry level vehicle like the 1961 Volkswagen Beetle to the most serious collector vehicle such as the 1967 427 Corvette will be available," states McCoy. "We run the gamut with everything in between." The winter Lakeland event will most likely sell out, as did the fall event in 2015.We asked McCoy about trends and what's coming up for Carlisle. Here's what he had to say:On the hottest cars at Carlisle's events: People are really into the European Classics-- Volkswagens and Porsches. But what seems to sell best are the barn finds. The garage finds. The unrestored cars are high on the list. Everyone wants the originals. Carlisle will be offering an unrestored 1970 Ford Falcon at the winter auction. The Falcon only has had only one owner and an incredibly low 5300 documented miles.On the unrestored vehicle as a trend in 2016: Definitely. Everyone wants the unrestored. It could be a muscle car or a European car, as long as it's unrestored. It's the originality that people want.On what's coming up for Carlisle: Well, our winter Lakeland Event is a great kick-off event and we're expecting a great turn out. Our spring event in Carlisle is our collectible event and it's always really popular, too.On predictions for the 2016 auction year: We have four sales coming up-- the winter Lakeland event, two in Carlisle, and then we'll return to Lakeland for our fall event. We expect a minimum of 400 vehicles for each event, and potentially 500 at the fall Lakeland event. We're thinking we'll sell out every auction.In short, things are going well for Carlisle and they're starting 2016 off right. Make sure to check out a full listing of Carlisle Events here. And don't miss the winter Lakeland event. It's right around the corner and tickets are selling fast, so be sure to click the button below for your tickets!Get TicketsCheck out some photos from the fall event!

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