This weekend marks ten years of Barrett-Jackson’s Las Vegas Collector Car Auction. Taking place at Mandalay Bay, the opening day was filled with somber moments and record attendance. In order to honor the fallen in the recent tragedy, several high-profile builders and dealers offered their first lots to local charities.
Day one started off with “Automobilia”. Hundreds of vintage signs, accessories and beautiful gas pumps were sold for no reserve. In order to support UNLV’s Emergency Residency Program, a group of seven cars has been set aside as “Cars For A Cause”. The first two went across yesterday with 100% of proceeds going to the UNLV Foundation. A new Jeep Wrangler Red Rocks Edition was donated by Mike Helton, Chaiman of the NASCAR Foundation. Equipped with Dana 44 axles front and rear, it was built to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Moab Easter Safari. It hammered for $100,000.
Next up was a new Chevy Silverado with a few custom touches from Count’s Kustoms. Donated by Chevrolet, it has several tasteful upgrades and includes a new motorcycle built by the Count. The wild pair also sold for $100,000
The other important event yesterday was building our booth. We couldn’t do these shows without the support of our clients and we thank them for bringing their best for us to display. First in was US Specialty Vehicles with the beastly Rhino GX.
Lamborghini Las Vegas arrived with a white Aventador and the stunning Huracan Performante.
Fusion Luxury Motors arrived in an LS-powered Land Rover Defender. I had the opportunity to showcase it at the Orange County Auto Show, and it combines the best of American power with Land Rover’s Time-Tested design. Their centerpiece is the 1967 Mustang Eleanor, an official reproduction of the hero car from “Gone in 60 Seconds”. Next in was Gateway Bronco. They specialize in restoring & modernizing first-generation Broncos. Adding modern conveniences makes these classics appeal to a new generation.
Vanderhall Motor Works brought two of their latest builds. The Venice and the Laguna are American three-wheelers with fuel-efficient front wheel drive. Airstream brought a new Interstate RV, appointed with all the luxuries you could ever ask for. Powered by a Mercedes turbo-diesel, it is among the only full-size RV’s to achieve 20 mpg.
See the object in the center? We will be unveiling it at 1pm Eastern Time today. Craig Jackson and his team will join Mr. duPont and our team as we take the wraps off of something wild. Tune in to our Facebook Page for live coverage. Stop by our booth for a free copy of our magazine and to purchase a few raffle tickets from Ronald McDonald house. A pristine classic Stingray convertible will be going to the winner, and it helps families in need. Stay with us for complete coverage of the event and have a great weekend.
