Celebrity Involvement Fuels 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas Collector Car Auction


SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Oct. 6, 2009 – Some serious star power fuels excitement at the 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas Collector Car Auction, where Bruce Willis and Don Johnson will sell vehicles from their private collections; and the “Father of the Mustang,” Lee Iacocca, will provide an exclusive chance to own one of only 45 limited edition Ford Mustangs. In a special charity auction, legendary TV host Jay Leno will donate proceeds from the sale of a one-of-a kind Yamaha motorcycle to Bailey’s Café, an arts education program based in Brooklyn, NY.

Ranging from a Lincoln Limousine used during the filming of “Die Hard,” to a powerful off-road SUV, a total of six vehicles from the celebrities will all sell at No Reserve from Oct. 7 – 10, at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Because no collector car auction in Las Vegas would be complete without a nod to the “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis Presley fans will also have the chance to own a race car used in the iconic 1964 motion picture, “Viva Las Vegas.”

“The ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’ is the perfect city to offer some of the most exciting celebrity vehicles we’ve ever had,” said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO, Craig Jackson. “Not only are some of the cars famous in their own right after appearing in some legendary films – but many have additional significance for personal and charitable reasons. This is a must-see opportunity for fans, and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of history.”

Bruce Willis, action movie star and one of Hollywood’s most recognizable leading men, will sell his 1967 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 and 1988 Lincoln Limousine.

The Copper Maroon 1967 Corvette convertible (Lot #659.3) features a powerful 427 c.i.d., 435 horsepower Tri-Power engine with a 4-speed manual transmission. Tri-Power ‘Vettes are considered by many collectors to be some of the most collectible versions of the celebrated American sports car. Willis purchased the car in El Paso, Texas, while filming “Last Man Standing.” He later shipped the car to Sun Valley, Idaho, to enjoy during summer trips.

Also a convertible, the black on black 1968 Pontiac Firebird (Lot #659.2) hails from Willis’ hometown of Penns Grove, N.J., where he used to drive to and from the Jersey Shore with his father. Originally used to take Willis to the set of his TV series “Moonlighting,” his dark blue 1988 Lincoln Limousine (Lot #659.1) was also used during the filming of the blockbuster movie, “Die Hard.”

“Bruce Willis has owned some great American iron,” said Jackson. “Cars like his 1967 Corvette and ’68 Firebird helped define an era of motoring in this country that was built around power. The Lincoln Limo also tells a story as it was used during Bruce’s most iconic film.”

Lee Iacocca, known as the “Father of the Mustang,” presented the Ford Mustang to the world during a dramatic press conference at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. During his time as Ford Division president and general manager, Iacocca made the Mustang a household name. Now, Iacocca is selling one of the most anticipated limited edition versions of this iconic classic, the No. 5 Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang (Lot #3000).

One of only 45 to be built, and nearly two years in the making, the Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is a collaborative effort by Iacocca, designer Michael Leone, and Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters. The car is custom-built by a team of artisans using composite construction laminates, a reinforced material from the aerospace industry. Under the hood is a specially equipped 550 horsepower engine featuring a Ford Racing polished Supercharger and a 5-speed manual transmission.

The exterior is painted in a specially created Iacocca silver hue, while the interior is resplendent with luxurious touches that highlight the car’s special heritage. These include Iacocca Diamond Design leather seats with embroidery stitching, an Iacocca signature dash plaque with serial number, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with “I” badge and Iacocca-badged aluminum door sill plates.

“This is a stunning modern-day muscle car from the visionary who started it all,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “It’s hard to imagine where collector car enthusiasts would be if Lee Iacocca hadn’t championed the Ford Mustang project 45 years ago. Now, he has teamed up with some of the top automotive talent in the world to produce the 45th Anniversary model. It’s an instant collectible.”

Jay Leno, one of the most popular TV hosts and stand-up comedians in the country, and one of the world’s most ardent car and motorcycle collectors, will sell his Yamaha Star V-Max motorcycle (Lot #761.1) to benefit Bailey’s Café (www.baileyscafe.org) The educational program based in Brooklyn, NY, uses poetry, theater, video, writing, music, dance, cooking and fine arts to build community and inter-generational understanding and respect in inner-city neighborhoods.

“Bailey’s Café is a wonderful arts program,” said Leno. “Since I didn’t have any Yamaha musical instruments to auction off, I thought I’d sell my Star V-Max, which is made by Yamaha, to support the program.”

The 200-horsepower Star V-Max is one of the world’s most powerful production motorcycles. This is a limited-production, built-to-order, one-of-a-kind motorcycle Leno customized with additional features using noted San Diego custom-bike designer Jeff Palhegyi.

Movie star car and celebrated racer, the 1961 Ol’ Yaller VIII (Lot #709), is one of only nine Ol’ Yallers built by road racing icon, Max Balchowsky, from 1956-1963, and appeared in the 1964 movie, “Viva Las Vegas,” with Elvis Presley. Assembled with spare components from fairly humble production automobiles, Balchowsky’s Ol’ Yallers became famous for their triumphs over road racing titans of the 1950s and early ‘60s. While the unusual design and bright yellow paint made them noticeable, it was Balchowsky’s remarkable engineering that made the Ol’ Yaller a force on the track. Famous drivers such as Dan Gurney and Carroll Shelby piloted Ol’ Yallers during their careers and raved about their capabilities.

“At Barrett-Jackson, we consign a wide range of vehicles that fulfill all of the wants and needs of today’s collectors,” added Steve Davis, president, Barrett-Jackson. “Increasingly, collectors are seeking cars that are not only rare, but can be raced or displayed at a Concours. They want a monetary investment that can be observed, touched and enjoyed. This Ol’ Yaller delivers the exclusivity and thrill that collectors crave.”

Ol’ Yaller VIII is powered by a 350 c.i.d., 350 horsepower V8 engine with a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, 4-speed manual transmission and independent front and rear coil suspension. While most of Balchowsky’s earlier creations were based on a tube-frame chassis, it was constructed on a Jaguar E-Type shell, making it one of the most aesthetically pleasing Ol’ Yallers ever built.

The car spent its early years in the SCCA West Coast Championship series. It was then modified by customizer Dean Jeffries and later became a show car for Grand Stand Amusements in 1972. Shortly after buying the car in the early 1990s, noted collector and vintage racer Gordon Apker commissioned a full restoration to return Ol’ Yaller VIII to its original configuration. Balchowsky meticulously supervised the restoration.

Don Johnson, television and film actor, Golden Globe winner, and star of the hit television show “Miami Vice,” will sell his 1994 Land Rover Defender 90 (Lot #410), a specialized vehicle for trips off the beaten path. The two-door yellow on black SUV features a 4.0 Liter V8 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission, and comes fully-loaded with front winch, head lamps, and both hardtop and convertible soft-top. There are only 14,687 original miles, and the vehicle has been garaged in Aspen, Colo., since it was purchased brand new from the dealer.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

Media Contact

Eric Kreller, R&R Partners, 702-318-4384, eric.kreller@rrpartners.com
Luke DeRouen, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com

Foreigner’s Lou Gramm Selling Cars, Signing Autographs at Mecum St. Charles Auction

Legendary rock star Lou Gramm, former lead singer of the band Foreigner, will make an appearance to sign autographs at Mecum’s St. Charles Auction at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Ill., on Friday, Oct. 2, 2009, where four of his classic automobiles will go up for auction.

Gramm, now a successful solo artist (seen here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSGpwf9SNVE) performing), will watch as his cars cross the auction block Oct. 2 starting at 7:20 p.m. His collection includes a 4-speed 1962 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible ZZ3 350 CI (Lot F197); a 1965 Pontiac GTO 2-door Sedan 400 CI, automatic (Lot F198); a 1966 Chevrolet Nova SS Sport Coupe with Blower (Lot F199); and a 5-speed 1956 Chevrolet 210 2-door Sedan 350 CI (Lot F200).

All four of Gramm’s lots will be auctioned live on Mecum’s television series, “Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More” on HD Theater – Discovery Communications’ first 24-hour high-definition cable network.

An avid car collector, Gramm first offered one of his cars at a Mecum Auction 10 years ago, when they sold his 930 Turbo Porsche. He participates as both seller and buyer at Mecum Auctions, purchasing such cars as a 1967 396 Chevrolet Chevelle SS.

Mecum’s St. Charles Auction features more than 750 vehicles ranging from rare muscle and vintage cars to hot rods and exotics. The auction is open to the general public with tickets available at the door for $10, and there is still time for attendees to pre-register to bid on the impressive lineup of cars and to be part of a live television audience.

The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.

Action Superstar Bruce Willis To Sell Three Vehicles At 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas Auction

Action Superstar Bruce Willis To Sell Three Vehicles At 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas Auction

  • Willis to auction a 1967 Corvette convertible, 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 and 1988 Lincoln Limo
  • “Die Hard” hero and star of the current blockbuster “Surrogates” is a longtime car collector

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Sept. 28, 2009 – Bruce Willis, action movie star and one of Hollywood’s most recognizable leading men, will part ways with some American iron from his personal collection during the 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Las Vegas Oct. 7-10, 2009. Willis will sell his 1967 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 and 1988 Lincoln Limousine, all at No Reserve. The 2009 Las Vegas event will take place at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and feature approximately 400 collector vehicles for sale, posh lifestyle events and live, high-definition TV coverage from SPEED.

“Bruce Willis has owned some great American iron,” said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO, Craig Jackson. “Cars like his 1967 Corvette and ’68 Firebird helped define an era of motoring in this country that was built around power. The Lincoln Limo also tells a story as it was used during Bruce’s most iconic film.”

The Copper Maroon 1967 Corvette convertible (Lot #659.3) features a powerful 427 c.i.d., 435 horsepower Tri-Power engine with a 4-speed manual transmission. Tri-Power ‘Vettes are considered by many collectors to be some of the most collectible versions of the celebrated American sports car. Willis purchased the car in El Paso, Texas, while filming “Last Man Standing.” He later shipped the car to Sun Valley, Idaho, to enjoy during summer trips.

Also a convertible, the black on black 1968 Pontiac Firebird (Lot #659.2) hails from Willis’ hometown of Penns Grove, N.J., where he used to drive to and from the Jersey Shore with his father.

Originally used to take Willis to the set of his TV series “Moonlighting,” the dark blue 1988 Lincoln Limousine (Lot #659.1) was also used during the filming of the blockbuster movie, “Die Hard.”

“These cars are special in that they correspond with important moments in Bruce’s life, both personally and professionally,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Like most collectors today, Bruce enjoys his cars. I imagine he has his eye on one or more street-ready muscle cars to replace the three vehicles he’s selling at Barrett-Jackson.”

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

Media Contact

Luke DeRouen, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com (www.tprm-usa.com)

George Barris Signing Autographs at Mecum St. Charles Auction

“King of the Kustomizers” George Barris will be onsite to sign autographs and share stories at Mecum’s St. Charles Auction at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Ill., on Oct. 2-3, 2009.

Barris will drive his custom-built 1969 AMC AMX-400 Coupe (Lot S105 - see web listing) across the block when Mecum auctions it on Sat., Oct. 3, at 2:25 p.m. during its live television series, “Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More” on Discovery Communications’ HD Theater.

“The AMC AMX-400 was a concept car we developed during the time when American Motors was building special AMX vehicles,” said George Barris. “Our goal was to make it aerodynamic yet retain its muscle car appearance. The car has been restored and would be a great daily driver for any enthusiast to add to their car collection.”

The ‘69 AMC AMX-400 Coupe was custom built for the early 1970’s TV show “Banacek.” This one-off original George Barris Kustom is a modified AMX 390 automatic with a 315 HP V8 engine as well as extensive styling modifications. Barris chopped 4½ inches from the roof to lower the car’s silhouette, lengthened its front end 15 inches and installed a louvered grille. It has a Borg Warner “Shift Command” 3-speed automatic transmission. With 3,300 original miles, the AMC AMX-400 is believed to be the last “Kustom” built by Barris in the 1960s. Featuring a brown bucket seat interior, Barris added matching Naugahyde crash padding on the dash and a carpeted rear compartment. His signature adorns the glovebox lid.

Barris, who was born in Chicago in the mid-1920s, pursued a passion for constructing scratch-built aircraft models that led to model cars, winning competitions for construction and design. He began “kustomizing” cars in the 1930s – changing the spelling of custom to kustom to reflect the unique nature of his vehicles. Barris created his first full custom from a used 1936 Ford convertible while in high school, and shortly after formed a club called Kustoms Car Club. He has developed kustoms and hot rods for movies and actors and is known as the originator of the Batmobile. Barris continues to work out of his shop today.

Mecum’s St. Charles Auction features more than 750 vehicles ranging from rare muscle and vintage cars to hot rods and exotics.

The auction is open to the general public with tickets available at the door for $10. It will be broadcast live on Mecum’s television series, “Mecum Auto Auction: Muscle Cars & More” on HD Theater – Discovery Communications’ first 24-hour high-definition cable network, offering compelling real-world and motorized content. There is still plenty of time for attendees to pre-register to bid on the impressive lineup of cars and to be part of a live television audience.

The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.

Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang To Be Sold At No Reserve At Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas

  • Lee Iacocca, the “Father of the Mustang,” returns to build a limited edition pony car
  • The Mustang is No. 5 of only 45 to be built and is specially equipped with a 550 horsepower engine
  • A personal message from Iacocca will be delivered to the crowd in Las Vegas

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Sept. 25, 2009 – One of the most anticipated limited edition versions of the renowned Ford Mustang will be sold at No Reserve to celebrate the pony car’s 45th anniversary during the 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Las Vegas Oct. 7-10, 2009. The No. 5 Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang is one of only 45 to be built and is specially equipped with a 550 horsepower engine; as one of the featured cars, the Mustang will cross the auction block at approximately 6:30 p.m. PDT on Friday, Oct. 9. The 2009 Las Vegas event will take place at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and feature approximately 400 collector vehicles for sale, posh lifestyle events and live, high-definition TV coverage from SPEED.

Known as the “Father of the Mustang,” Iacocca presented the Ford Mustang to the world during a dramatic press conference at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. During his time as Ford Division president and general manager, Iacocca made the Mustang a household name. He even tapped veteran racer Carroll Shelby to build special high performance versions of the car. A video from Iacocca to the crowd will air before the car is sold on Oct. 9.

“This is a stunning modern-day muscle car from the visionary who started it all,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “It’s hard to imagine where collector car enthusiasts would be if Lee Iacocca hadn’t championed the Ford Mustang project 45 years ago. Now, he has teamed up with some of the top automotive talent in the world to produce the 45th Anniversary model. It’s an instant collectible.”

Nearly two years in the making, the Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is a collaborative effort by Iacocca, designer Michael Leone, and Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters. The new business venture is called I Legacy. The Mustangs are being offered exclusively through Galpin Ford in Southern California.

“It has been the most amazing time of my life, working with Mr. Iacocca on this car,” said Leone. “This 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang is a rare, complex, elegant and extraordinary piece of moving artwork. With innovative technology, the visual impact of its fastback design and expert craftsmanship, it is truly exceptional in every way; the only car that can bear the Iacocca name on it. We couldn’t be prouder to have the number https://premier-pharmacy.com/product-category/antibiotics/ five car crossing the auction block at Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas.”

Each of the 45 limited edition Mustangs is custom built by a team of talented artists using composite construction laminates, a reinforced material from the aerospace industry. The hand-crafted vehicles, all painted in a specially created Iacocca silver hue, are fabricated using the finest tooling, with each part separately cured in an autoclave.

The Iacocca-designed hood crest is custom built by a distinguished jeweler and every emblem is hand-finished and polished. Front and rear wheels are cast aluminum and chrome plated for a sheen-like finish and the center caps are machined and also chrome plated.

While the exterior fastback design of the Iacocca Silver Mustang is compelling, the mechanical underpinnings are true American muscle. The No. 5 Iacocca Mustang was specially equipped with a 550 horsepower engine featuring a Ford Racing polished Supercharger that includes dyno sheets and other documentation. The driver can harness the extra power through a quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission.

Inside the Iacocca Silver Mustang, the interior is resplendent with luxurious touches that highlight the car’s special heritage. These include Iacocca Diamond Design leather seats with embroidery stitching, an Iacocca signature dash plaque with serial number, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with “I” badge and Iacocca-badged aluminum door sill plates.

“The most appealing aspect of the Iacocca Mustang is its sleek appearance,” added Davis. “Each line is clean, very sharp and seems to flow endlessly with the car. And the custom silver color is extremely bold, which embodies the spirit of the Mustang.”

When it crosses the block at No Reserve in Las Vegas, the Iacocca Silver Mustang will join a famous group of Mustangs sold at Barrett-Jackson.

“From first production Ford and Shelby models to one-owner classics, we’ve sold just about every Mustang possible at Barrett-Jackson,” continued Davis. “There’s a passion and aura surrounding the Mustang brand that is like no other, and it shows when one crosses our auction block. The energy will be through the roof when the Iacocca Mustang is sold in Las Vegas.”

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

Media Contact

Luke DeRouen, TPRM, (214) 520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com (www.tprm-usa.com)

Barrett-Jackson Returns To Las Vegas With 19 Total Hours Of Live, Multi-platform Coverage On Speed™ And Speedtv.com

‘NO RESERVE’ AUCTION & COLLECTOR CAR EVENT INCLUDES THE SALE of SIGNIFICANT MOTORSPORTS OFFERINGS

FANTASY BID GAME & TWO HOURS of LIVE SPEEDTV.COM COVERAGE SET HIGHLIGHT EXPANDED ONLINE COVERAGE

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2009 – SPEED will once again be on hand in Las Vegas as the second annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event and ‘no reserve’ auction takes center stage at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. Starting Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. ET, SPEED and SPEEDtv.com will provide 19 combined hours of live, multi-platform, high-definition coverage from Sin City, where pristine offerings drew large crowds and brought strong bidder interest during last year’s inaugural event.

For this year’s presentation, SPEED has expanded its live broadcast to 17 hours on the linear network, with two additional hours being streamed live at SPEEDtv.com on Friday, Oct. 9, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Long-time SPEED play-by-play announcer Bob Varsha will head the broadcast booth as Matt Stone, Executive Editor of Motor Trend magazine, will add color. The auction block will once again be handled by avid car enthusiast Mike Joy, the ‘Voice of NASCAR on FOX,’ and former Hot Rod magazine technical editor Steve Magnante. Arizona’s Rick DeBruhl will be touring the auction tents and providing pre-block commentary, including Fantasy Bid game previews.

“For year two of Vegas, we’ve expanded our coverage to 19 hours and two platforms, with 17 hours being on the linear network,” said Rick Miner, SPEED SVP of Production & Network Operations. “And new for this presentation, while the linear network breaks away for two hours with live NASCAR coverage on that Friday, we will be complementing our Barrett-Jackson coverage with a full production and live broadcast on SPEEDtv.com.”

Even with the recession well under way last year; the inaugural Las Vegas Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event and ‘no reserve’ auction still produced big numbers as many desirable collector cars and significant bits of automotive lineage crossed the block.

One of those cars crossing the block will be the historic Max Balchowsky constructed 1961 ‘Ol’ Yaller, VIII,’ a sleekly styled machine that appeared in the 1964 hit Elvis Pressley movie, Viva Las Vegas. But Balchowsky, a legendary figure in road racing circles, wasn’t satisfied in looking the part; reveling in his underdog role by driving past the more established sports car racing manufacturers like Ferrari, Maserati and Aston Martin to multiple victory lane appearances. The car will be sold at ‘no reserve’ with complete documentation, including old race logs.

Another significant car with a motor sports connection will be the sale of the original Prudhomme Special Edition Ford Mustang Shelby GT-500 Concept Car, a racer assembled at automotive legend Carroll Shelby’s Las Vegas manufacturing facility. The car, in a joint venture with NHRA legend Don ‘The Snake’ Prudhomme, is drag race ready, complete with a 5.4-liter, 800 horsepower Ford V8, front and rear adjustable BMR racing suspension and drag tires.

“We have an impressive https://healthsavy.com docket lined up for our second annual Las Vegas auction,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “From classics like an original 1965 289 Shelby Cobra to modern collectibles like the Iacocca 45th Anniversary Mustang, we will once again have something for everyone. And with SPEED cameras capturing the action from every angle in high-definition, enthusiasts worldwide will have a front row seat as these spectacular cars cross the block.”

In addition, SPEEDtv.com will also offer many interactive elements during this Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event, featuring trivia games, viewer chats, storylines, photo galleries, three exclusive camera angles and the Fantasy Bid game, which has become increasingly popular, recording a 115-percent increase in activity during January’s Scottsdale (Ariz.) broadcast with almost 600,000 total bids and a per car average of more than 20,000 fantasy bids.

The Fantasy Bid games will give viewers the opportunity to compete against each other in guessing the final ‘hammer’ prices prior to cars crossing the auction block, including two-hours of live and exclusive SPEEDtv.com coverage – and online Fantasy Bid competition – starting at 6:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Oct. 9.

The grand prize for the Fantasy Bid game will be 52-inch wide screen 1080p LCD high-definition television along with a DVD home entertainment system for the player earning the most points throughout the entire bidding period. Additional prizes will also be awarded, as the first runner up will receive a Sony PlayStation 3 and the second runner up takes home a portable GPS navigation system. Additionally, 19 players will receive per car prizes, a 32-gigabyte iPod Touch, while three daily prizes – a 32-inch LCD High Definition television – will be up for grabs as well.

No purchase necessary to enter to win. The Game is subject to complete Official Rules, which are available at www.SPEEDtv.com. For more information on the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event and ‘no reserve’ auction, log onto www.Barrett-Jackson.com.

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Live Event Coverage

2009 – Las Vegas, Nev.
(All Times Eastern)

Thursday, Oct. 8
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event – 6-11 p.m. – SPEED

Friday, Oct. 9
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event – 4-6:30 p.m. – SPEED
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event – 6:30-8:30 p.m. – SPEEDtv.com
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event – 8:30-11 p.m. – SPEED

Saturday, Oct. 10
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event – 4-11 p.m. – SPEED

SPEED is the nation’s first and foremost cable television network dedicated to motor sports and the passion for everything automotive. From racing to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers quality programming from the track to the garage. Now available in more than 79 million homes in North America, SPEED is among the fastest-growing sports cable networks in the country and, the home to NASCAR on SPEED and an industry leader in interactive TV, video on demand, mobile initiatives and broadband services. For more information, please visit SPEEDtv.com, the online motor sports authority.

Media Contact

Contact: David Harris – SPEED
david.harris@speedtv.com
Office – 704.501.5796
Mobile -704.756.9301

Barrett-Jackson Retains Deloitte & Touche To Examine Management’s Assertions About Its Auction Practices

Attestation of Auction Results Expected to be Published by October 1, 2009

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Sept. 23, 2009 – Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. LLC announced today that it has engaged “Big 4” global professional services and auditing firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP (“Deloitte & Touche”), to conduct an independent examination of Barrett-Jackson’s management’s assertions relating to its auction practices for the company’s 2008-2009 auction season.

Deloitte & Touche will examine the assertions made by Barrett-Jackson’s management related to certain practices followed in the conduct of the auctions and then render its opinion on the validity of those assertions based upon Barrett-Jackson’s recently completed 2008-2009 auction season. This examination and attestation will include the company’s inaugural Las Vegas, Nevada auction in October 2008, as well as the January 2009 auction in Scottsdale, Arizona and the April 2009 auction in Palm Beach, Florida. The examination will include testing key management assertions and criteria impacting the conduct of each Barrett-Jackson auction, including: the consignment process; bidder qualification and registration procedures; documentation of and adherence to the contracted terms of sale; conformity to the commission structure and commissions charged; proper calculation and timely payment of seller proceeds; and general adherence to documented auction practices.

“We have engaged a well respected firm to examine our practices and we look forward to sharing their results,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. The company anticipates Deloitte & Touche will issue its Independent Accountant’s Report by October 1, 2009.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas.  Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings.  For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

About Deloitte

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, a Swiss Verein, and its network of member firms, each of which is a legally separate and independent entity. Please see www.deloitte.com/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and its member firms. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries.

Media Contacts:

Scott Black, TPRM, 214-520-3430, sblack@tprm-usa.com (www.tprm-usa.com)

Mecum Introduces Premier Seating at ’57 Heaven Auto Museum Auction

Mecum Auction introduces a new Premier Seating program designed to give registered bidders guaranteed seating during the upcoming ’57 Heaven Auto Museum Auction on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009, at Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater in Branson, Mo.

“There is overwhelming excitement surrounding the sale of classic cars, automotive collectibles and ‘50s-era storefronts from the ’57 Heaven Museum, and we expect a large crowd for this special one-day event,” said President Dana Mecum. “We developed Premier Seating to make sure all attendees will have an opportunity to comfortably take part in the auction.”

Because the Dick Clark American Bandstand Theater is a unique venue – with the auction taking place in the theater upstairs from where the lots are being displayed – upcoming items will be broadcast on two large projection screens in the theater during the auction. With Mecum’s ’57 Heaven Premier Seating program, bidders who choose to go downstairs to personally inspect cars and memorabilia during the auction will not have to worry about losing their seat. Theater ushers will hold bidders’ seats until they return.

In addition, the ’57 Heaven Museum Auction is open to registered bidders only due to limited seating at the venue. It is free to register and attendees can download Bidder Registration forms from www.Mecum.com or register onsite the day of the auction.

Mecum’s ’57 Heaven Premier Seating offers three options for bidders:

  • Reserved Floor Level Theater – $50.00 per seat: Bidders can choose assigned seats anywhere in the lower level of the theater. They will receive two complimentary drink tickets and one complimentary lunch ticket.
  • Upper Level Skybox Lounge – $100.00 per seat: With this option, bidders will have access to theater seat selection as well as admission to the upper level, all-access Skybox Lounge, which includes unlimited complimentary food and drink.
  • Unreserved Seating – Free: General seating at floor level is free for bidders but not guaranteed.

Bidders interested in reserved seats can print the  Reserved Seats Availability Chart (Download Reserved Seats Availability Chart), which is updated daily.

More than 75 classic cars and motorcycles will go up for bid at the ’57 Heaven Auto Museum Auction, as well as automotive collectibles and re-created ‘50s-era storefront exhibits, including a drive-in movie, fire station, barbershop and service station. The museum also contains neon and metal signs; vintage men’s and women’s clothing; furniture; books; magazines; vintage movie posters; and children’s toys.

All vehicles and automobilia will be offered at no reserve.

The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.

Barrett-Jackson To Auction Rare, Stunning 1965 289 Shelby Cobra At No Reserve During Las Vegas Event

Barrett-Jackson To Auction Rare, Stunning 1965 289 Shelby Cobra At No Reserve During Las Vegas Event

  • Barrett-Jackson will auction rare 1965 Shelby Cobra at 2nd annual Las Vegas event
  • The stunning blue Shelby has only 32,906 miles
  • Cobra has undergone a Concours level restoration

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Sept. 16, 2009 – A rare and beautifully restored, low mileage 1965 289 Shelby Cobra (Lot #704) will be sold at No Reserve by the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company on Oct. 10, 2009. The rare Shelby roadster, CSX2568, is one of about 650 built from 1962-1965 and will be one of the stars for “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™,” at its 2nd annual Las Vegas event on Oct. 7-10, at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

“Shelby American’s Cobras captured the world’s attention and this nation’s imagination when they conquered Ferrari, Jaguar, Porsche and Aston Martin,” said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO, Craig Jackson. “With such a small number built in the 1960s, few will have the privilege to own one of these iconic cars. Because we’ve sold some of the most desirable Cobras ever to roll out of Shelby American, like Carroll Shelby’s personal Super Snake, people who are serious about these roadsters come to Barrett-Jackson. They know it’s the best opportunity for a ‘no stories’ Cobra to exchange hands with real buyers at true market value.”

When initially delivered to the California dealer, the Cobra’s original 271 horsepower engine was upgraded by the dealer to the 306 hp option. This consisted of a Holley 715cfm center pivot carburetor, a Cobra high rise manifold, tubular Balanger headers and an aluminum Cobra 6-quart oil pan, all of which are still on this as-originally-equipped car. Original style Dunlop racing tires on chrome Borranis wire wheels come with the car. All numbers on the chassis, engine, transmission and differential are correct and original.

CSX2568 is one of the later rack and pinion cars that were lauded for their handling prowess. The Cobra was restored to its original Princess Blue with red leather interior.

“This is the first time CSX2568 has been in the public in about 40 years and the first time it has been offered for sale since 1968,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Incredibly, this car has only 32,906 miles on it and spent its entire life in the San Francisco area. The Cobra underwent a comprehensive two year Concours-level restoration where every nut and bolt on this very complete car was taken apart. The car comes with extensive photo documentation of the restoration.”

CSX2568 has the original California black license plates and registration tags that expired in 1972. The original California title and pink slip also come with the Cobra.

“According to the consignor, this Cobra was never raced, never had any rust whatsoever and was never bent,” noted Davis. “The original owner was part of the Jacuzzi family, of hot tub fame.”

In addition to the live auction, attendees can browse the cars available for sale, enjoy exhibitors offering an array of merchandise and play the Barrett-Jackson slot machines for a chance to win a new car. For those who can’t attend, SPEED will provide live, high-definition TV coverage of all auction days.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

Media Contacts:

Luke DeRouen, TPRM, 214-520-3430 ext. 301, lderouen@tprm-usa.com (www.tprm-usa.com)

Mecum Bob McDorman Sign Auction Tops $2 Million In Sales

Mecum Auction sold a variety of extraordinary and unique neon signs, rare parts and memorabilia to buyers across the globe during its McDorman Sign Auction, Sept. 11-12, 2009, at Bob McDorman Chevrolet in Canal Winchester, Ohio. Total gross sales for the two-day auction were just over $2 million.

“We had a great range of buyers at the McDorman Sign Auction including individuals looking for specific pieces for their homes, as well as a number of hobbyists, collectors and dealers purchasing for other buyers,” said Dana Mecum, president, Mecum Auctions. “The memorabilia and parts sold very strong with a rare set of Corvette wheels garnering one of the highest bids of the auction at $22,000. With the growing popularity of automobilia, we expect neon signs and parts to be a successful aspect of the Mecum Auction business as we move forward.”

The top-selling piece of neon, a 10-foot-by-27-foot Chevrolet Bowtie from the St. Louis Corvette Assembly plant, sold for $39,000. Mecum’s Top 10 Sales for the McDorman Sign Auction (all sales reflect hammer prices) were:

  1. 10’x27’ Chevrolet Bowtie (Lot S3) at $39,000
  2. 3’x15’ Chevrolet Vertical with Bowtie (Lot S46) at $30,000
  3. 10’x11’ Chevrolet Used Cars (Lot S30) at $28,000
  4. 6’x8’ Chevrolet Two-Sided Clock (Lot S2) at $26,000
  5. 43”x52” Socony Oil Rack w/ canisters (Lot Z498) at $22,000
  6. 3’x10’ SOHIO Rotating Sign with Air/Water (Lot Z381) at $22,000
  7. 2’x12’ Chevrolet Vertical Two-Sided Sign (Lot S43) at $22,000
  8. 1957 Corvette SR2 Magnesium Wheel Set (5) (Lot P185) at $22,000
  9. 4’x24’ Oldsmobile Rocket Two-Sided Sign (Lot S35) at $20,000
  10. 4’x12’ Oldsmobile/Cadillac Two-Sided Sign (Lot S22) at $19,000


Internet and phone sales were very strong at Mecum’s McDorman Sign Auction. The company recently launched an online bidding process where interested buyers can participate in live auctions via the Internet.

“Our new Internet bidding option is a very viable solution for absentee bidders, including many international buyers who are unable to attend Mecum events,” said Mecum.

Full results of the McDorman Sign Auction are available to Mecum InfoNet members, which is free to join at www.Mecum.com/infonet. Mecum InfoNet members can log in to see lot-by-lot results by visiting the Consignments Page.

Mecum’s upcoming St. Charles Auction features more than 750 vehicles ranging from rare muscle and vintage cars to hot rods and exotics, plus nearly 100 vintage signs. The auction, which is open to the public, takes place Oct. 1-4, 2009, at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, Ill. Tickets are available at the gate for $10.

The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.