1969 Chevy Camaro Fetches $500,000 to Benefit the Armed Forces Foundation
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – April 15, 2009 – The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company recorded more than $20 million in total sales and delivered its trademark excitement during the 7th Annual Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Collector Car Auction April 9-11, 2009. The all No Reserve auction featured an eclectic docket, including the “Project American Heroes” 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS custom that fetched $500,000 to benefit the Armed Forces Foundation and a classic 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Cabriolet that brought $253,000, as well as a group of vehicles from the General Motors Heritage fleet. Barrett-Jackson welcomed more than 55,000 attendees to the event and experienced a 20 percent increase in walk-up ticket buyers at the gate during the three-day auction at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
“Barrett-Jackson proved the resiliency of the car collecting hobby with one of the most exhilarating events in our history at Palm Beach,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “We built on the momentum generated in Las Vegas and Scottsdale with strong sales across the board, including more than $1.5 million raised for charity. And even though we shortened the event to three-days due to the Easter holiday weekend, more than 55,000 enthusiasts came to be part of the action. We also had tremendous web activity during our event with a 300 percent increase in page views and an increase of approximately 6 million hits.”
One of the highlights of the 2009 Palm Beach auction was the emotional sale of the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS custom. Dubbed “Project American Heroes II,” the muscle car brought $500,000 on Friday following a bidding battle underneath a giant American Flag above the auction block. All proceeds from the sale of the Camaro were donated to the Armed Forces Foundation, which provides financial support to service members and their families. First Lt. Mark Little, who was helped by the Foundation, explained the importance of the organization to the Barrett-Jackson crowd prior to the sale.
“Each Barrett-Jackson auction has its defining moment, and the ‘Project American Heroes’ sale was the hallmark of the 2009 Palm Beach event,” noted Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “The energy in the building was unlike anything we’ve ever experienced at Barrett-Jackson. Soldiers like First Lt. Mark Little are true American heroes and we’re proud to assist with their recovery.”
Other cars sold for charity included a pair of Ford Mustang concepts that fetched $175,000 each for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the first retail Ford Shelby GT500 that sold for $150,000 to benefit the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation and the 2006 Monte Carlo racecar driven by Jimmie Johnson for $200,000.
“We’re proud to report that we have raised more than $20 million for charities since 2006,” added Jackson. “It’s a reflection of the passion of our customers and their charitable nature.”
Another top seller was the 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Cabriolet driven by James Cagney in the 1933 film, “The Mayor of Hell.” The award-winning, Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club-certified classic went for $253,000.
Barrett-Jackson continued to cultivate the hobby by attracting an impressive number of new bidders to the Palm Beach auction. Of the nearly 1,100 registered bidders, approximately 35 percent were first timers who were responsible for more than 30 percent of auction block purchases. Barrett-Jackson’s healthy offering of entry-level to mid-range vehicles was essential to the influx of newcomers.
“The collector car hobby is growing and Barrett-Jackson is the catalyst,” added Davis. “While we continue to offer top-tier cars for seasoned collectors, our diverse docket attracts enthusiasts from across all ages and experience levels. Plus, the automotive lifestyle aspect continues to bring in thousands of people.”
The auction will be most be remembered for the drama surrounding the 115 vehicles sold by General Motors. Though the organization has been managing their fleet over the past 6 years by selling duplicate cars and less historically significant vehicles, Barrett-Jackson was informed by GM late Thursday that issues surrounding some of the cars meant that a high percentage of the vehicles would not be sold during the auction. After a marathon session by the legal teams from GM and Barrett-Jackson, the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration and its Acting Administrator, Ron Medford, communicated to Barrett-Jackson Friday afternoon that previous issues concerning the sale of vehicles by GM were resolved and all sales could go forward.
“GM and Barrett-Jackson are pleased that the auction of GM vehicles went forward as planned,” explained Jackson. “We’re grateful to NHTSA for their decision to allow the sale of these vehicles at the auction to proceed. The result was that people had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy historic cars directly from GM for their private collections.”
The top 10 cars sold in Palm Beach include:
- 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS custom “Project American Heroes” – $500,000 (Lot #369.1)
- 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Cabriolet – $253,000 (Lot #669.1)
- 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo NASCAR “Jimmie Johnson #48” – $200,000 (Lot #672)
- 2004 Ford Mustang GT convertible concept – $175,000 (Lot #655)
- 2004 Ford Mustang GT coupe concept – $175,000 (Lot #655.1)
- 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W30 convertible – $173,250 (Lot #668)
- 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 coupe – $150,000 (Lot #665)
- 1959 Chevrolet Corvette custom convertible – $148,500 (Lot #652.1)
- 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS5 convertible – $148,500 (Lot #653.1)
- 1967 Shelby GT500 fastback – $143,000 (Lot #667)
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. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact: Luke DeRouen at lderouen@tprm-usa.com or (214) 520-3430 ext. 301 (www.tprm-usa.com)
All auction prices, excluding charity vehicles, include buyer’s premium.
Mecum Auction, the high-performance collector car auction specialists, will offer up for sale 28 historically significant Ford and Chrysler race and muscle cars from the Ellis Collection during Dana Mecum’s Original Spring Classic Auction, May 13-17, 2009, in Indianapolis, Ind.
The selected cars in the Ellis Collection – focusing on lightweight construction and high horsepower – represent an important slice of American motorsport history. Owners Richard and Pam Ellis of Illinois have decided to redefine their 50-plus car collection.
“Mecum’s Original Spring Classic is the logical place to fine-tune our vehicle collection because of the company’s reliable, helpful service and low 6% seller fee,” said Richard Ellis. “My wife and I have been attending Mecum auctions for several years and are confident they will help us achieve our goal of changing the focus of our car collection.”
To view details on the entire Ellis Collection, visit www.Mecum.com and click on “Collections.”
Among the vehicles up for sale is a 1962 Ford Galaxie Lightweight (Lot F259) that was delivered to racer Phil Bonner. One of 11 cars produced for drag racing competition by the Ford Wayne Michigan Plant, the Ford Galaxie features a 427 CI engine. It was fitted with aluminum front bumpers and fiberglass front fenders and trunk lids in an effort to reduce its weight.
In addition, the 1965 Arnie Beswick-prepared Pontiac GTO Race Car (Lot S148) will cross the Mecum auction block. This GTO was ordered by race car driver Rick Holladay to race in the NHRA B Class. He also custom-ordered the Chevrolet Forrest Green color from which its “Jolly Green Giant” nickname came.
The Ellis Collection also features a 1966 Ford Mustang Funny Car (Lot S141) that was prepared by Holman Moody to beat Dick Brannan’s HM-built long-nose Mustang funny car. Powered by a Ford 427 SOHC engine, this Mustang is one of several Holman Moody-built long-nose Mustangs listed in a Ford Stock Vehicles Department memo as “Drag Program Vehicles.”
The Original Spring Classic Auction will be broadcast live on Mecum’s popular 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. The show will highlight many of the Spring Classic’s 1,250 cars to be offered for sale.
The auction, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, is open to the general public with tickets available at the door for $10.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars, muscle cars and Corvettes for more than 20 years. In spring 2008, the company sold its 50,000th car. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – April 13, 2009 – The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company introduced a collector car insurance program for car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide during the 7th Annual Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Collector Car Auction. “Barrett-Jackson Endorsed Collector Car Insurance” offers comprehensive insurance coverage designed especially for collectors, along with competitive prices and a menu of supplemental services to enhance the protection of insured vehicles.
Barrett-Jackson selected Private Client Group, a division of AIU Holdings, Inc., to provide the new insurance offering to its customers. Policies are underwritten by member companies of AIU Holdings, which carry “Excellent” financial strength ratings from the industry’s principal rating agencies.
“Both of our organizations have leveraged their expertise to offer an exceptional program,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “Private Client Group has built a successful business insuring a variety of assets, including collector cars, for high net worth customers worldwide. By tapping our ability to deliver a premium experience, vast database of vehicles from almost 40 years of auction and unrivaled understanding of collector cars, Private Client Group will be able to offer the best coverage and service in the industry. We just changed the way that people will look at collector car insurance.”
Private Client Group specializes in property and liability insurance for successful individuals and families. In addition to collector cars, insurance is available for homes, everyday autos, art and other collections, excess liability and more. Private Client Group also offers an extensive range of risk management services designed to prevent avoidable losses and minimize the likelihood of property damage.
“Many collectors insure their vehicles via standard auto policies, which simply aren’t written to adequately protect the features that make these cars so special,” said Charles Williamson, President, Private Client Group. “We are excited to deliver a customized program that mirrors the unparalleled customer experience Barrett-Jackson’s bidders, consignors and other enthusiasts have come to expect.”
The new collector car insurance program is available to all collectors, even on vehicles not purchased at a Barrett-Jackson auction. Coverage is intended for classic, antique, exotic, special interest, or limited edition cars that can be used in car club activities, exhibitions, parades or for private collection. Most are driven infrequently and stored in a fully enclosed, locked garage (or other secured location) when not in use. In addition, policyholders’ claims will be handled by individuals with expertise in the care and restoration of collector vehicles.
“The policy prices are extremely competitive and coverage is exceptional,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “As car guys we were able to help custom tailor this program to fit the needs of our collectors to ensure their Barrett-Jackson experience is enhanced by the addition of this product. And like our auction lineups, ‘Barrett-Jackson Endorsed Collector Car Insurance’ will cover everything from brand new Corvette ZR-1s to European classics and vintage Shelbys.”
The Delp Company, an independent insurance agency, was chosen as a servicing agent for the program. Agents were in attendance at the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction to offer the policy and welcomed multiple new customers.
Established in 1971, Barrett-Jackson produces the most influential and significant automotive lifestyle events in the world and serves as the barometer for trends in the collector car industry. The company’s reputation for presenting only quality, authenticated automobiles has given consignors and buyers the highest level of confidence. Some of the most respected automobile manufacturers also consign special-edition, concept and exclusive vehicles at Barrett-Jackson events.
The Barrett-Jackson team is comprised of car collectors and restoration experts that have combined a passion for the hobby with an entrepreneurial spirit that has elevated the popularity of car collecting. Their aggressive growth plan and reputation has created tremendous opportunities for the company. Over the years, the organization has expanded into TV programming on SPEED, licensing, merchandising and other venues, as well as partnering with some of the top organizations in the automotive and lifestyle industries.
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. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact: Scott Black at sblack@tprm-usa.com or (214) 520-3430 ext. 303 (www.tprm-usa.com)
Issuance of coverage is subject to underwriting review and approval. The description herein is a summary only and does not include all terms, conditions and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for complete details of coverage and exclusions. Non-insurance services may be provided through independent third parties. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions.
Famous Classic Driven by James Cagney in “The Mayor of Hell”
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – April 9, 2009 – The 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon cabriolet (Lot #669.1) driven by James Cagney in the 1933 film, “The Mayor of Hell,” will be sold at No Reserve on Saturday during the 7th Annual Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Collector Car Auction. The award-winning, Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club-certified classic will join nearly 500 collector vehicles crossing the auction block at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The Auburn sale will be broadcast live on SPEED as part of their high-definition coverage of the auction.
“This elegant Auburn 1250 Salon is one of the truly great American classics,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “It won First Place at the 1987 Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance and First Place in the A.C.D. Auburn Open Category, validating its beauty and quality of the restoration. It is also one of only two 1934 Auburns to receive the stringent Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club certification.”
The Auburn convertible is powered by a 391 c.i.d./160 horsepower Lycoming V12 engine with a 3-speed manual transmission and vacuum power booster. It also features a manual dashboard selector dual ratio axle with 2-speed differential solid axle suspension, leaf springs, 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes and rides on a 127-inch wheelbase.
According to the ACD documentation, in addition to its role in “The Mayor of Hell,” the Auburn was partially owned by Cagney and the producing movie studio before being privately sold and featured in the Cars of the Stars Museum from 1959-1976.
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. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact: Luke DeRouen at lderouen@tprm-usa.com or (214) 870-8635 www.tprm-usa.com
The Mecum Auction Company, famous for selling high-performance collector cars and automobilia for more than 20 years, is excited to announce a new Mecum Auction has been established in Monterey, Calif.
Mecum’s Monterey Auction will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2009, from 12-5 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Resort & Spa on the Del Monte Golf Course. The one-day auction will feature 100 extraordinary cars up for bid.
“Mecum Auction is starting a new chapter in our exhilarating company history book by expanding into new market areas,” said President Dana Mecum. “Although we have specialized in muscle cars, our expert team is extremely knowledgeable about selling exotic sports cars, classics and other high-end collector vehicles. In fact, Mecum was selling world-class Ferraris in the late ‘80s. We are thrilled to launch the Monterey Auction and look forward to giving attendees a new event they’re sure to never forget.”
Cars will be displayed outside the Hyatt Regency Monterey’s beautiful, centrally located site while the bidding arena will be staged in a 10,000-square-foot ballroom.
“The convenient location of the facility and our decision to create a Saturday afternoon auction from noon to 5 p.m. will fit nicely into the week’s schedule for bidders and attendees,” Mecum said, adding they will also host a pre-auction brunch the morning of the sale.
The Mecum experts are currently consigning collections for Monterey and interested parties can contact Dana Mecum at 815.568.8888.
Consigners and collectors rely on the Mecum Auction Company to provide turnkey service and exceptional value, managing every auction detail from the paperwork and vehicle photography to pre-event marketing. And they do it for the lowest commissions – Mecum currently charges a 6% buyer/seller fee, several percent less than other industry auction companies.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars, muscle cars and Corvettes for more than 20 years. In spring 2008, the company sold its 50,000th car. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – April 6, 2009 – With consignment spots sold out and the auction lineup finalized, the stage is set for the 7th Annual Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Collector Car Auction on April 9-11. The all No Reserve auction will feature a memorable range of collector vehicles including muscle cars, foreign classics, customs and specials from individual collectors and auto manufacturers. SPEED will provide live, high-definition TV coverage of all three auction days at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
“We’re just days away from another amazing Palm Beach auction,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “Consignments spots sold out quickly as people from across the collector car industry showed great interest in the upcoming event. We set the tone for the hobby with successful auctions in Las Vegas and Scottsdale and look to do the same in Palm Beach.”
Mustang Celebrates 45 Years
Ford Motor Company will celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Mustang by offering the first retail 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 and a pair of Mustang GT concept cars. The 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 coupe (Lot #665) will be the first retail unit available to the public and features a Kona Blue color scheme with white stripes personally chosen by Carroll Shelby. The Redline Red Metallic Ford Mustang GT convertible concept (Lot #655) and the Tungsten Silver Ford Mustang GT coupe concept (Lot #655.1) debuted at the 2003 North American International Auto Show with a fresh design that foreshadowed a new direction for the 2005 model year.
All proceeds above MSRP from the sale of the Shelby GT500 will be donated to The Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation. The Mustang concepts will be auctioned to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
East Coast Muscle
Pristine muscle cars are always in demand at the Palm Beach auction, and Barrett-Jackson will deliver in 2009 with a variety of Detroit iron. A rare 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W30 convertible (Lot #668) will cross the block during the auction. One of only 96 built, the Matador Red 442 has a factory-matching drivetrain and the 1970-only W27 aluminum axle carrier.
According to Barrett-Jackson president, Steve Davis, “An incredible herd of vintage Ford Mustangs will be led by a Lime Gold 1967 Shelby GT500 fastback (Lot #667) and a pair of 1968 Shelby GT350 fastbacks (Lot #674.3 and #661.1). I’m particularly impressed with the trio of 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302 fastbacks that will be sold. Lot #381 and #682 are dressed in bright yellow paint schemes, while Lot #652 is a Concours Gold winner in stunning red.”
Chevrolet will be well represented in the muscle car segment by a strong crop of Chevelles and Camaros provided by individual collectors. Both the 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS5 convertible (Lot #653.1) and the 1970 Chevelle SS 396 convertible (Lot #640) feature frame-off, rotisserie restorations, smooth black paint schemes and original amenities like power steering, power brakes and AM/FM radio. A 1969 Camaro Z/28 (Lot #640.1) with an authentic “X77” production code features an original, numbers matching DZ 302 engine and a Muncie 4-speed transmission. Another 1969 Camaro Z/28 (Lot #651) has a genuine “X33” production code and is powered by a 302cid/290 horsepower engine with a Muncie 4-speed transmission.
Barrett-Jackson has again packed the Palm Beach lineup with an amazing group of Corvettes. Highlights include a striking black 1954 Corvette convertible (Lot #664), 1962 Corvette FI convertible (Lot #674.1) and a numbers matching 1969 Corvette convertible (Lot #645) with a 427cid/435 horsepower L71 engine and a M-21 close ratio 4-speed.
British Beauties
“Few cars fit the South Florida lifestyle better than classic Jaguars and Austin-Healeys,” said Jackson. “These elegant and fun British cars were a hit during our 2008 Palm Beach auction, so we’re offering more great examples this year.”
One of the star Jaguars is the 1955 Jaguar XK 140 roadster (Lot #650.1). The gem of a noted Seattle-area collection for the past decade, it features a silver paint scheme over a black interior with red piping. Lot #668.1 is a limited edition 1958 Jaguar XK 150 S roadster with its rebuilt, original 3.4 Liter engine.
Austin-Healeys, which are gaining popularity among collectors, will garner attention with examples like a 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8 Phase II sports convertible (Lot #674), 1959 Austin-Healey BT7 roadster (Lot #669) and 1960 Austin-Healey 3000 BN7 roadster (Lot #650).
The Fantastic 50s
Demand for 1950’s-era American iron continues to explode. The docket is filled with famous names such as Century, Holiday 88, Continental, Thunderbird, Fairlane and Medalist. Some of the highest profile cars in Palm Beach will include a stunning torch red 1957 Thunderbird “E” convertible (Lot #657.1), a crimson 1959 Pontiac Bonneville convertible (Lot #659) and a pristine 1955 Bel Air convertible (Lot #375).
“1950’s-era great American classics, especially drop tops, continue to be very popular,” said Davis. “They recall what many refer to as the ‘American Decade,’ with their powerful motors, debonair styling and sumptuous interiors. The balmy weather in Florida is particularly suited to the convertible versions of these iconic cars.”
NASCAR Legends
Historic racecars are always a favorite of collectors and Barrett-Jackson will offer several high profile cars from the legendary NASCAR series. The Jeff Gordon-raced 1998 Monte Carlo NASCAR race car (Lot #684) has a particularly famous pedigree. It is an original Hendrick Motorsports chassis #43, car #2418 and is powered by an 18 degree race motor rebuilt from original race-used Hendrick Motorsports parts. The racer is beautifully autographed by Gordon on the hood and inside dash panel; race photos and TV broadcasts are included.
“This Monte Carlo was nicknamed ‘Butthead’ and driven by Jeff Gordon during his rise to fame,” stated Davis. “Raced 19 times from 1995 to 1999, when Gordon won three of his four championships, this car won seven races and captured 15 Top 5 finishes.”
Another highly anticipated car to be auctioned is the 2006 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS raced by three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson (Lot #672). The No. 48 Lowe’s Monte Carlo was raced nine times in the 2004, 2005 and 2006 Cup Championship season. The Monte Carlo visited victory lane three times, winning the Pocono 500, the Pennsylvania 500 Raceway and the UAW-DaimlerChrysler 400. The No. 48 car includes an authentic Hendrick race engine re-built with the certified SB2 block raced by Johnson to win the 2004 race at the Pocono Raceway. All proceeds from the sale of the car will benefit the Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC, through the Hendrick Foundation for Children.
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. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact: Luke DeRouen at lderouen@tprm-usa.com or (214) 870-8635 www.tprm-usa.com
An incredible assembly of 50 collector, muscle and vintage race cars from the Jack Safro Estate Collection will cross the auction block during Dana Mecum’s Original Spring Classic Auction, May 13-17, 2009, in Indianapolis, Ind.
Mecum Auction will offer all 50 vehicles on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 14-16, at no reserve. Included in the collection are:
- 1932 Ford Ardun Special Roadster – A one-of-a-kind award winning roadster featuring a professionally built 296 CI ’53 Mercury Flathead by Indy crew chief Dick Russell, special-built Ardun aluminum heads and a hand-built aluminum body by master craftsman Ray Kinney.
- 1952 Oldsmobile 88 Convertible – An Olds Club blue ribbon best in show winner with a 303 CI/160 HP Rocket 88 engine.
- 1981 Toyota Trekker 4WD Pickup – Jack Safro designed the Trekker, which was approved by Toyota in collaboration with Safro and Winnebago and produced from 1981-83
- 2006 Lexus RX400 Hybrid SUV Paul McCartney Edition – A custom-themed Lexus with 450 actual miles designed for McCartney’s 2005 U.S. tour. It was hand painted by Pete Santini of Westminister, Calif., has a Mark Levinson custom sound system to plug-n-play guitars, and is autographed by McCartney.
- The entire 50 vehicle collection may be viewed on the Mecum web site at The Jack Safro Estate Collection
After a high school night job recapping tires and years of owning a service station, Safro began a used-car business in 1962 called Jack Safro’s Pewaukee Motors. In 1970, he moved the business to Brookfield as Jack Safro Toyota and then opened Jack Safro Ford-Lincoln-Mercury in Oconomowoc in 1989, Lexus of Brookfield in 1989, Lexus North Shore in 2001 and Infiniti North Shore in 2005.
“The Jack Safro Estate contains the many unique Toyotas that reflect his close relationship with the Japanese automaker that spanned four decades,” said Dana Mecum, president, Mecum Auction. “We are excited to add this special car collection to our amazing lineup at the Original Spring Classic.”
The Original Spring Classic Auction will be broadcast live on Mecum’s popular 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. The show will highlight many of the Spring Classic’s 1,250 cars to be offered for sale. The auction, held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, is open to the general public with tickets available at the door for $10.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars, muscle cars and Corvettes for more than 20 years. In spring 2008, the company sold its 50,000th car. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.
‘NO RESERVE’ AUCTION COVERAGE STARTS THURSDAY, APRIL 9 at NOON
HAGERTY FANTASY BID RETURNS, ALONG WITH EXPANDED INTERACTIVITY on SPEEDTV.COM
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., March 31, 2009 – SPEED, the definitive network for motorsports and the automotive lifestyle, will once again provide extensive coverage from this year’s Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event and ‘no reserve’ auction from the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach, Fla.
Starting Thursday, April 9, the network will begin its 22 hours of both live and same-day delayed, high-definition coverage at Noon, E.T. On Saturday, April 11, eight hours of live coverage starts at 11 am, ET.
Familiar faces will be calling the event, as Bob Varsha, the ‘Voice of Formula One on SPEED,’ is set to provide play-by-play with long-time Motor Trend Executive Editor Matt Stone offering color commentary. On the auction block, Mike Joy, long-time collector and the ‘Voice of NASCAR on FOX,’ joins former Hot Rod Magazine technical editor Steve Magnante. Perusing the auction tents and flavoring the event will be SPEED and Barrett-Jackson regular Rick DeBruhl.
“Coming off such great results in Scottsdale (Ariz.) both for SPEED and Barrett-Jackson, we can only anticipate three solid days and many quality cars,” said Rick Miner, SPEED SVP of Studio Production & Operations. “In this marketplace, who doesn’t want an asset you can put your hands on and doesn’t disappear?”
As always, the Barrett-Jackson ‘no reserve’ auction line up is an extensive one, including Lot #655 and Lot #655.1, two of Ford’s 2004 Mustang Concepts that debuted during Detroit’s North American International Auto Show in January of 2003. Jimmie Johnson’s Pocono and Las Vegas-winning No. 48 entry will also be auctioned off to benefit Levine’s Children Hospital of Charlotte, N.C. through the Hendrick Foundation for Children.
“Barrett-Jackson and SPEED revolutionized the way people can be part of the car collecting hobby,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “SPEED’s live coverage of the Barrett-Jackson auction creates unmatched excitement for our TV audience, as well as a genuine snapshot of the true value of collector cars in the marketplace today.”
SPEEDtv.com will once again offer a full slate of interactive elements featuring trivia games, viewer chats, exclusive camera angles and its increasingly popular Hagerty Fantasy Bid game. Viewers will have the opportunity – during that Saturday’s live broadcast (April 11) – to compete against each other in guessing the final ‘hammer’ prices prior to the cars finish crossing the auction block.
The grand prize for the Hagerty Fantasy Bid game will be 65-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 Blu-ray disc player and the second runner up takes home a portable GPS navigation system. Eight players will receive per car prizes, a 32-gigabyte iPod Touch.
Also during the live broadcasts, SPEEDtv.com will be streaming three additional camera angles from the event, providing the audience a true ‘two-screen’ experience as the broadcast unfolds. Also during the event, viewers can test their collector car knowledge through the online trivia contest and live viewer chat sessions with the SPEED Barrett-Jackson broadcast team.
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event Coverage
2009 – West Palm Beach, Fla.
(All Times Eastern)
Thursday, April 9
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event Noon – 3 p.m. (Live)
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 8 p.m. – Midnight (SDD)*
Friday, April 10
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event Noon – 3 p.m. (Live)
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 8 p.m. – Midnight (SDD)*
Saturday, April 11
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Live)
Hagerty Fantasy Bid Game 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Live)
*Same Day Delayed Broadcast
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 78 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.
Mecum Auction returned to the Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Mo., March 20-21, 2009, to sell an impressive lineup of high performance collector cars.
Total gross sales, excluding buyer’s premium, for the two-day auction was $2,394,300. Mecum Auction President Dana Mecum said that dollar figure echoed earlier auction results indicating today’s collector vehicle prices are stabilizing at 2004-2005 levels.
The Spring Kansas City Top 10 Sales (all sales reflect hammer prices) were:
- 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Coupe (Lot S73) at $80,000
- 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (Lot S149.1) at $55,000
- 1962 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible (Lot S167) at $53,000
- 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 2 Dr (Lot S75) at $50,000
- 2007 Cadillac XLR Convertible (Lot S96.1) at $38,500
- 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible (Lot S65) at $35,000
- 1970 Pontiac GTO Convertible (Lot S82) at $35,000
- 1958 Chevrolet Impala 2-door hard top (Lot S79) at $33,000
- 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z-28 Coupe (Lot S173) at $32,500
- 1973 Mercury Cougar XR7 Convertible (Lot S52) at $32,500
Mecum had a 47% sold rate at the auction, and attendance was up 37% over the 2007 event. Mecum did not host a spring sale in Kansas City in 2008.
Full results of the Spring Kansas City, Mo., auction are available to Mecum InfoNet members, which is free to join at https://www.mecum.com/infonet/infonet.cfm. Mecum InfoNet members can log in to see car-by-car results by visiting the Consignments Page.
The general public is welcome at Mecum’s next auction – the Original Spring Classic Auction, May 13-17, 2009, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds – with tickets available at the door for $10. The legendary Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601 headlines the Original Spring Classis Auction, which is expected to feature 1,250 vehicles. It will be broadcast live on Mecum’s popular 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.
The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars, muscle cars and Corvettes for more than 20 years. In spring 2008, the company sold its 50,000th car. Consignment, Bidder, event and accommodation information is available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling (815) 568-8888.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 30, 2009 – Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, will address lawmakers and dignitaries at the Childhelp® National Day of Hope® Luncheon on Wednesday from noon-2 p.m. at the Russell Senate Caucus Room in Washington, D.C., on the topic of internet safety.
“As a father of two children, I have made internet safety an area that I want to make a difference in,” said Jackson. “I have asked Childhelp to make internet safety a chief initiative in the fight against child abuse in America and will challenge our country’s leaders to join me in dealing with this problem. As someone who’s at the cutting edge of technology, I’m amazed at how unregulated cyberspace is for our children. With better awareness, resources and legislation, we can ensure that the internet is used as a terrific learning tool, instead of an avenue for child predators.”
Childhelp, a longtime Barrett-Jackson charity partner, is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping victims of child abuse and neglect. Barrett-Jackson produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., and Las Vegas. The 7th annual Palm Beach event will take place April 9-11, 2009.
Co-chairs for the event are Senator and Mrs. Jon Kyl and Senator Dianne Feinstein. The Childhelp National Day of Hope Honorary Committee includes Senator Chris Dodd, Senator Mark Udall, Congressman John Boehner, Congressman Thaddeus McCotter, Congressman Ed Pastor, Congressman John Shadegg, Congressman Trent Franks and Congressman Harry Mitchell.
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. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Media Contact: Luke DeRouen at lderouen@tprm-usa.com or (214) 520-3430 ext. 301 www.tprm-usa.com
