$440k?!
Sells Through the Roof
Mod Top
CAR COLLECTOR
GET INTO DODGE
1970 D100
$28k
Truck-Market Bargain
AMERICAN
September–October 2019
Issue No. 47
www.AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 6
Eight Sales That Define the Market
Volume 8 • Issue 47 • September–October 2019
CAR COLLECTOR
The Scoop
CORVETTE
1963 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
327/340 CONVERTIBLE
$36 / RM Auctions
Light money for a mid-year,
but cheap for a reason
— John L. Stein
Page 52
GM
1957 CHEVROLET BEL AIR
2-DOOR HARD TOP
$63k / Barrett-Jackson
What’s in store for the Tri-Five
market?
— Jeff Zurschmeide
Page 54
FoMoCo
1965 FORD GALAXIE 500
CAMMER
$112k / Bonhams
Why wasn’t this full-size SOHC
Ford more expensive?
— John Boyle
Page 56
AMERICAN
MOPAR
1969 PLYMOUTH
BARRACUDA MOD TOP
$440k / Mecum
What’s top money on a
rare-top Mopar?
— Dale Novak
Page 58
8 AmericanCarCollector.com
The Rundown
COLUMNS
12 Torque: Tuning up ACC — Jim Pickering
46 Cheap Thrills: 1979–80 Ford Mustang Turbo
— B. Mitchell Carlson
48 Horsepower: A pilgrimage to Indy — Jay Harden
50 On the Road: When you try — and fail — to buy your
next project — Elana Scherr
138 Surfing Around: Must-have automobilia
— Carl Bomstead
FEATURES
22 Good Reads: Corvette racing, convertible tops, Dodge
trucks and NASCAR facts — Mark Wigginton
28 Snapshots 1: A neon stop-off in Minnesota
— B. Mitchell Carlson
30 Snapshots 2: There’s nothing simple about a basic old
truck — Nick Jaynes
42 Your Turn: Where are ’96 Grand Sport prices?
44 Readers’ Forum: Buy, sell or hold late-model Corvettes?
90 Market Moment 1: 1973 Ford F-100 pickup
— Chad Taylor
118 Market Moment 2: 1971 Chevrolet Nova
— Jim Pickering
130 Junkyard Treasures: Moore’s Auto Salvage in South
Dakota — Phil Skinner
USEFUL STUFF
14 What’s Happening: Car events of note
16 Crossing the Block: Upcoming auctions
24 Parts Time: Aftermarket pieces for your vehicles
26 Cool Stuff: Lugs, lights and reels
34 Wrenching: Rebuilding a 4160-series Holley
10 AmericanCarCollector.com
70 Buy It Now: 1987–88 Ford Thunderbird Turbo coupe
— Chad Tyson
82 One to Watch: 1983–84 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds coupe
— Chad Taylor
128 The Parts Hunter: Gas caps, manifolds and Dodge
grilles — Patrick Smith
132 Showcase Gallery: Sell your car in ACC’s
classifieds section
133 Advertiser Index
134 Resource Directory: Get to know our advertisers
AUCTIONS
68 Market Overview
Top 10 auction sales, best buys — and Broncos busting the
market — Chad Tyson
72 Barrett-Jackson — Uncasville, CT
Barrett-Jackson’s fourth annual Northeast sale nets a 100%
sell-through rate on 548 automobile lots
— Adam Blumenthal
84 Mecum — Indianapolis, IN
$63m on 1,127 of 1,724 cars is second-best-ever total at
Indianapolis — B. Mitchell Carlson
94 Leake — Tulsa, OK
Oklahoma sale brings in $8.1m on 352 of 516 cars changing
homes — Brett Hatfield
102 Twin Cities — St. Paul, MN
Moving down the street resulted in 74 of 119 lots selling for
$1.5m — B. Mitchell Carlson
114 Roundup
Highlights from RM Auctions in Auburn, IN; Bonhams in
Greenwich, CT; and Mecum in Portland, OR
Page 10
TORQUE
Jim Pickering
Fine-Tuning ACC
How is the magazine doing? We’d like your feedback
after ACC installed Classic Auto Air a/c
on the original 289. But that’s part of what
I love about the Mustang. It’s an American
car, and it just tends to work.
Even after months of sitting, it cranked
E
like I’d driven it yesterday, but it wouldn’t
fire. All the fuel had evaporated out of the
carburetor.
And then I smelled raw fuel. A lot of it.
Evaporated fuel in the carburetor bowls had
left behind sticky residue, and the floats had
stuck down, flooding the engine and making
a mess out of the intake. Oops.
It was a good reminder for me — I know
better than to crank up a carbed V8 that’s
been sitting without tapping on the float
bowls with a screwdriver handle. But we all
need a reminder sometimes. I’m just glad
this one didn’t include flames.
Tune-up time
That’s what prompted me to take the
Mustang to my shop and rebuild the old
4160 Holley sitting on top of that 289. The
job is easy to do, but a lot of car guys see
carburetors as some kind of voodoo science.
So I called up Summit Racing, ordered the
proper kit, and tore down the Holley in my
garage. My step-by-step coverage is this
month’s “Wrenching” feature. It starts on
p. 34.
Once I had the carb back on the engine
and the engine running, I set about tuning
the carb. Some say you can do it by ear,
listening to the rpm increase as you back out
each mixture screw to the proper amount.
I’ve always found the job to be a lot easier
with a vacuum gauge hooked up to the carb
— reading engine vacuum as you back off
each mixture screw. The goal? Setting the
highest reading possible on the gauge — and
the highest rpm you can get — using just
those mixture screws.
Once I had the gauge reading where I
wanted it, I gave each mixture screw an
extra quarter-turn out, thumped the throttle
a few times and called it done.
As I was putting away my tools, I started
thinking about a different kind of tune.
12 AmericanCarCollector.com
Working on a magazine is like working on a car — making sure all the components fit
together and run smoothly to get you where you need to be
Dialing it in
Building a magazine is a lot like building
a car. There are components that all need
to come together at a certain time, and they
all need to be done to a high level of quality
to carry the end product. The devil is in the
details — sub-par prepwork under paint is
usually visible even under a great paint job,
and it’s not that different for a magazine idea
that wasn’t well thought out, or a profile that
missed the mark on the current market. We
work hard to make ACC the best magazine
it can be, and from time to time, that means
it’s time get out our tools and tune things up
a bit.
You may have noticed that we’ve made a
few incremental changes over the past few
issues. Our covers feature cleaner designs,
and we’ve tidied up our look on each of the
pages inside as well. I’ve tuned our profiles
as well as our Market Reports to tighten
them up even further, and we’ve added a
few new features to make our content more
readable and quicker to digest.
But that’s all more of a tune-by-ear sort
of thing. I’d like to add a gauge into the mix,
and to do so, I’ll need your help. So this
August, I’ll be sending out a readers’ survey
to get your thoughts on what you like about
ACC, what you think needs work, and what
you’d like to see more of.
The survey will go out via email to our
newsletter list. If you don’t already get the
free ACC Newsletter — now weekly — you
can sign up for it at www.americancarcollector.com.
Or, if you’d rather, you can send
your thoughts to us directly at comments@
americancarcollector.com. I won’t be
publishing your responses — this is purely
to gauge where we are, and to help us dial in
ACC to make it more of the magazine that
you — the reader — wants it to be.
As for the Mustang, it ran great on the
way back to ACC HQ — and while I’ve put
a lot of miles on it, that day included a first
for me. Next to me at a stoplight, a guy in
a white van yelled and waved. “I love your
Mustang. It looks great!” he said. “I love the
way those old V8s smell!”
Score one for the gauge. A
verything seemed fine when I hit
the key on the ACC Mustang. It had
been sitting for months — a victim of
deadlines, other projects and commitments
that kept it parked in its stall
Page 12
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Let Us Know About Your Events
Do you know of American-car-related events or happenings that we should publicize?
Contact us at American Car Collector, P.O. Box 4797, Portland, OR 97208 or online at
comments@americancarcollector.com.
No Waiting for Parts or Installers
The 26th Annual Corvette Funfest cranks up on September 19 in Effingham, IL. By the time the fun ends on September 22, four days and
nights of cruises, seminars, concerts, a giant Corvette sale corral, swapmeet, real-time Corvette upgrade installations, concerts, parties and offthe-hook
burnouts will be over. For more information, visit www.corvettefunfest.com. (IL)
Shop Your Feet Off at Charlotte
How can
anyone check
out 7,000 spaces
crammed with
parts, tools and
cars in just four
days? You can’t,
but 150,000
gearheads will
give it their
best shot during
the Charlotte
AutoFair. This
event churns
away from October 17 through 19. This festival of cars also includes a
1,600-car sale corral, car shows, car-club gatherings and car exhibits
— and it fills up the massive Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord,
NC, and spills onto the surrounding parking areas. www.charlotteautofair.com
(NC)
14 AmericanCarCollector.com
A Classic Weekend at Hershey
The 2019 Eastern Division AACA National Fall Meet in Hershey,
PA — aka Hershey — is all about showing full classics. Okay, it’s
also about 9,000 flea-market spaces, 1,000 car-corral spaces and more
than 1,500 cars on show. This is THE car weekend for many East
Coast collectors. This year’s Hershey is October 8 through 12, and it’s
the perfect way to get the car out of the garage before the bad weather
hits. www.hersheyaaca.org. (PA)
Page 14
CROSSING THE BLOCK
UPCOMING AUCTIONS—Compiled by Chad Tyson
(Images are courtesy of the respective auction houses unless otherwise noted)
STAR CAR: 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 at RM Auctions in Auburn, IN
SEPTEMBER
RM Auctions
Where: Auburn, IN
When: August 29–September 1
Web: www.rmsothebys.com
Last year: 526/712 cars sold / $21.4m
Featured cars:
STAR CAR: 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429
• 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window
coupe
• 1923 Duesenberg Model A tourer
Silver Auctions
Where: Sun Valley, ID
When: August 31–September 1
Web: www.silverauctions.com
Lucky Collector Car
Where: Tacoma, WA
When: August 31–September 1
Web: www.luckyoldcar.com
Last year: 82/154 cars sold / $1m
Mecum
Where: Dallas, TX
When: September 4–7
Web: www.mecum.com
16 AmericanCarCollector.com
Last year: 805/1,183 cars sold / $28.3m
Featured cars:
• 1971 Dodge Hemi Charger R/T
• 1959 Chevrolet El Camino
• 1971 Plymouth Hemi GTX
Specialty Auto Auction
Where: Loveland, CO
When: September 7
Web: www.specialtyautoauction.com
VanDerBrink
Where: Red Oak, IA
When: September 14
Web: www.vanderbrinkauctions.com
Featured cars:
• 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS
• 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T
• 1968 Pontiac GTO convertible
Mecum
Where: Louisville, KY
When: September 20–21
Web: www.mecum.com
Last year: 402/562 cars sold / $8m
Featured cars:
• 1963 Mercury Monterey
• 1968 Chevrolet Corvette 427/390 coupe
Saratoga Auto Auction
Where: Saratoga Springs, NY
When: September 20–21
Web: www.saratogaautoauction.org
Last year: 174/280 cars sold / $5.7m
Featured cars:
• 1950 Cadillac Series 61
• 1955 Ford Thunderbird
• 1953 Chevrolet Corvette roadster
VanDerBrink
Where: Cape Girardeau, MO
When: September 21
Web: www.vanderbrinkauctions.com
Southern Classic
Where: Murfreesboro, TN
When: September 28
Web: www.southernclassicauctions.com
RM Sotheby’s
Where: Dayton, OH
When: September 28
Web: www.rmsothebys.com
Page 16
CROSSING THE BLOCK
UPCOMING AUCTIONS—Compiled by Chad Tyson
OCTOBER
Carlisle
Where: Carlisle, PA
When: October 3–4
Web: www.carlisleauctions.com
Barrett-Jackson
Where: Las Vegas, NV
When: October 3–5
Web: www.barrett-jackson.com
Last year: 739/739 cars sold / $34m
Worldwide
Where: Corpus Christi, TX
When: October 4–5
Web: www.worldwideauctioneers.com
Featured cars:
• 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham
• 1928 Hudson Super Six Series O convertible
sedan
Bonhams
Where: Birmingham, AL
When: October 5
Web: www.bonhams.com
Last year: 82/114 cars sold / $1.4m
(Images are courtesy of the respective auction houses unless otherwise noted)
Bonhams
Where: Philadelphia, PA
When: October 7
Web: www.bonhams.com
Last year: 35/49 cars sold / $2.4m
Featured cars:
• 1903 Ford Model A
• 1910 Stanley Steamer Tourer
• 1913 Marmon Model 48
RM Auctions
Where: Hershey, PA
When: October 10–11
Web: www.rmsothebys.com
Last year: 132/148 cars sold / $10.8m
Featured cars:
STAR CAR: 1936 Cord 810
Westchester sedan
• 1919 Briggs & Stratton Flyer
• 1904 George N. Pierce Arrow
Vicari
Where: Biloxi, MS
When: October 10–12
Web: www.vicariauction.com
Mecum
Where: Las Vegas, NV
When: October 10–12
Web: www.mecum.com
Last year: 636/873 cars sold / $24.3m
Featured cars:
• 1964 Mercury Comet Caliente
• 1970 Plymouth Road Runner
• 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door hard top
Rand Luxury Auction
Where: Roslyn, NY
When: October 12
Web: www.randluxury.com
Featured cars:
• 2006 Ford GT
• 2012 Fisker Karma Signature Edition
• 1934 Lincoln 523 Dietrich roadster
SG Auction
Where: Winona, MN
When: October 17–19
Web: www.sgauction.net
Last year: 136/220 cars sold / $2.2m
Branson
Where: Branson, MO
When: October 18–19
Web: www.bransonauction.com
Last year: 158/225 cars sold / $5.1m
Mecum
Where: Schaumburg, IL
When: October 24–26
Web: www.mecum.com
Last year: 640/897 cars sold / $16.5m A
STAR CAR: 1936 Cord 810 Westchester sedan at RM Auctions in Hershey, PA
18 AmericanCarCollector.com
GOOD READS
Mark Wigginton
Corvette Racing: The GT1 Years
Dodge B-Series Trucks and Dodge C-Series
by Nigel S Dobbie, SilverWood Books, 332 pages, $250, vintagemotorbooks.com
There are few collectors and drivers more passionate than the ones
behind the wheel of a Corvette. GM’s most famous creation from the
early 1950s has gone through amazing changes, and the most recent
model represents as much bang for
the buck as any supercar on offer.
That heritage of racing power
on the street has waxed and waned,
along with track success. But the
period from 1999 through 2009
was special. Racing purpose-built
C5Rs and C6Rs on the national
and international stage through
that decade saw Corvettes racing
and winning week in and week
out. The race cars were built by
Pratt & Miller as well as Riley &
Scott — two shops that are known
for track success.
During one amazing run from
2000 through 2007, the two-car
Corvette team completed the
grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans without a DNF, while racing and winning
in multiple series.
Nigel Dobbie, an English author and Corvette racer, put together
this definitive guide to the GT1 years back in 2011. It is now out of
print but worth seeking out as a remarkably thorough trip through
Corvette racing history.
Lineage:
(
Fit and finish:
is best)
Convertible Top Restoration and Installation
by Fred Mattson, CarTech, 176 pages, $22.34, Amazon
I’ve always been a firm believer in the advice often given by the
famous advice columnist Dear Abby: “Seek professional help.”
So while I’m happy to take apart an engine from the middle of last
century, the idea of putting a
top on my aging Miata gave
me the shakes. I followed
Abby’s advice.
I might have reconsidered
and done it myself if I had
a copy of Convertible Top
Restoration as my guide.
Fred Mattson, also
author of Automotive
Upholstery and Interior
Restoration, brings his
experience both in the shop
and behind the keyboard to
tell, in simple visual terms,
the ins and outs of working
on a convertible top, from
the easy to the multi-motor,
failure-at-any-moment,
complicated tops.
It’s a fast and easy-to-
understand read, profusely illustrated and designed to give you the
confidence and skills you need to put the top down and make sure it
comes back up.
Lineage:
Fit and finish:
22 AmericanCarCollector.com
Drivability:
Drivability:
Trucks by Don Bunn, Iconografix, 142 and 158 pages, $49.95 and $25,
vintagemotorbooks.com
This pair of books came out in 2002 and 2005, respectively, and
each is subtitled as a “Restorer’s and Collector’s Reference Guide and
History.”
The Dodge
B-Series was built
between 1948 and
1953, and featured a
completely new truck
(except for engine
and drivetrain), and
the introduction of
the “Pilot House”
cab, with better
room for drivers
and crew as well as
enhanced visibility.
The Dodge
C-Series came
along in 1954 and
was produced
through 1960. The
biggest innovations
were an automatic
transmission (but
loss of the “Pilot
House”) and
increased bed length. Along the way, the marketing
folks built the “Job Rated” notion into their sales approach — a fancy
way of saying, “Sure, you might pay a little more for this Dodge, but
it will save you in the long run.”
Author Don Bunn started out as a Plymouth car collector, and
bought his first B-Series truck with the notion of turning it into a
handy utility truck to support his car collecting. Instead, after redoing
the mechanicals
and sending it
out for exterior restoration,
he found
the truck spoke to
him in ways the
cars never had.
It’s a common
affliction, as seen
more and more at
cruise-ins around
the country with
growing truck
counts.
Bunn pro-
duced both books
with a sharp eye
toward the needs
of collectors:
plenty of history,
inside knowledge
and sharply
researched data
about production
numbers, methods and aberrations; all tools you need to
bring to your next project.
He is quite the expert, with a long list of books about Dodge
trucks. Anyone interested in a truck project should start here.
Lineage:
Fit and finish:
Drivability:
Page 22
New Products to Modernize Your Street M
PARTS TIME
Jim Pickering
Better-Handling Camaro
Want to wake up your original Camaro’s handling? Che
RideTech’s 1967–69 GM F-body StreetGRIP suspension s
which includes everything you need to dramatically impro
car’s ride quality and handling. Included in the kit are new d
coil springs, a new front sway bar, Delrin control-arm
bushings, updated ball-joints, HQ-series adjustable
monotube shocks, composite leaf springs, Delrin
leaf-spring bushings, and all the shackles and hardware
required for installation. This system improves the OEM
camber setup while also removing over 70 pounds of unspr
weight. The dual-rate coils give a better ride and firmer ha
than stock when pushed in the corners, while the HQ-serie
let you dial in feel even further. Prices start at $2,500, and k
available for most American muscle cars and trucks. Learn m
www.ridetech.com.
Let There Be Light
Tired of dealing with C3
Corvette headlight actuators
that don’t function correctly
or are always in need of
adjustment? Detroit Speed
has what you need with their
Electric Headlight Door
Kits. These kits install in
place of your original electric
motors and hardware but use
current sensing technology to
provide automatic actuation
that needs no adjustment. The
system comes with two electric
actuators, a control module and
harness, brackets and mounting
hardware. Get it from www.
summitracing.com for $895.
Nova Moldings
If you have a third-gen Nova in need of trim pieces, Classic Industries has you covered. These just-announced stainless-steel windshield and
rear-window molding sets for 1975–79 Chevrolet Nova and GM X-body are exact matches to OEM units, but without the scratching, fading,
and inevitable dents and dings that come with years of use. Get a set — and the required mounting clips — at www.classicindustries.com for
$244.99 (windshield) and $219.99 (back glass).
24 AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 24
COOL STUFF
Chad Taylor
Reel It In
Whether you need extra lighting in the
driveway for those under-hood adventures
or a plethora of power tools in the backyard,
Masterplug Heavy-Duty Metal Cord Reel
will keep the power flowing no matter what.
The steel reel with cord guide includes four
120-volt electrical sockets with thermal
overload protection and manual overload
reset button. The metal reel is available with
L STUFF
Chad Taylor
Reel It In
Whether you need extra lighti
STUFF
Chad Taylor
Reel It In
Whether you need extra lighting in the
driveway for those under-hood adventures
or a plethora of power tools in the backyard,
Masterplug Heavy-Duty Metal Cord Reel
will keep the power flowing no matter what.
The steel reel with cord guide includes four
120-volt electrical sockets with thermal
overload protection and manual overload
reset button. The metal reel is available with
Light
Light Fight Finisher
End the battle with work lights that sear holes in your retinas and grab the H2
Headlamp from One80light. The headlamp-on-steroids features a rechargeable battery
pack powering a string of LED bulbs with two brightness settings. The H2 is waterproof
and adjustable, making it useful for everybody no matter the situation. Get one at www.
one80light.com for $50.
Lug Wrench Reloaded
Throw out that four-way lug wrench you have been tossing around your car for the past decade and replace it with the Powerbuilt Billy Club
Lug Wrench. Featuring a ½-inch sliding socket drive head, the Billy Club can be used as a breaker bar, then shifted into a convenient tool to
spin off loose lugs — both SAE and metric sizes. The kit includes two double-ended universal sockets and a three-inch extension, all of which
are stored in the grip handles of the wrench. Pick one up now for $38.99 at www.summitracing.com.
26 AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 26
SNAPSHOTS: Spomer Classics and Museum
SHINING ON
S
Story and photos by B. Mitchell Carlson
ixty-two miles east of Sioux Falls, SD, is the agricultural city of
Worthington, MN. There, just a short jog off the freeway you’ll
find one of the better collections of automobilia, neons and collector
cars in the Midwest — Spomer Classics and Museum.
The spark plug for this collection is Marv Spomer. He owned
the Buick, Oldsmobile and Pontiac franchises in Worthington for
several decades, but sold out to retire in 2003.
When Marv sold the franchises, the new owner consolidated into a
single building, leaving Marv with one of the dealership showrooms. A
few years later, Marv converted that 1960s vintage dealership into the
museum.
All told, there are over 1,000 major items in the collection, includ-
ing more than 200 neon signs of all sizes.
The centerpiece of the facility is the former service garage. Not
The collection is housed in a former dealership
28 AmericanCarCollector.com
A retired GM dealer keeps the (neon) lights on for vintage automobilia
in southwestern Minnesota
Detailing
What: Spomer Classics and
Museum
Where: 322 Oxford St.,
Worthington, MN
Website: www.spomerclassics.
com
More: Open by chance or
appointment; to make
arrangements to view the
collection, call Marv at 507360-9557
only are the walls and ceiling filled
with neons, advertising clocks and
porcelain signs, but there are usually
about a dozen cars from Marv’s collection
— including a few for sale.
Marv likes to point out that
he gets all kinds of groups going
through the collection. “We get quilting
clubs, red-hat ladies’ clubs, youth
groups…you name it. I also get a lot
of bus tours stopping here.”
Although the collection doesn’t
For the $10 admission fee, he’ll give you a personalized tour. A
have regular hours, Marv is usually
around on Saturdays — especially in
the summer months and around the
time of the Sturgis motorcycle meet.
Cars from Marv’s collection frequently join the neon display
Page 28
SNAPSHOTS: The Joys of Old-Vehicle Ownership
An old pickup is a tune-up
for the psyche
A “Simple”
Truck
Jim Pickering
Tune-up? No problem. You got four or five hours to spare?
by Nick Jaynes
“I
t can’t be that hard to change the spark plugs,” my buddy Winslow
laughed at me when I told him I might pay someone to perform
a tune-up on my 1986 C20 Silverado. “It’s a square-body Chevy.
It’ll take 30 minutes.”
Slam-cut to the following weekend. All six-foot-five of me is
Supermanning across the right-hand cylinder bank of the carbureted
454-cubic-inch V8. The ball of my right foot is pushing off a tree stump
while my left foot dangles in the air ahead of the chrome bumper.
My non-dominant left hand is fighting to seat the spark-plug wire
onto the cylinder-eight plug. By hour four of the tune-up — 95% of
which we’d completed in the first hour — I was exhausted.
Hauling chickens
If I hadn’t bought this 1986 Chevrolet C20, it’d be hauling chickens
in rural Idaho right now.
The day I discovered the truck on Craigslist, I wasn’t even looking
for a pickup. Earlier that week, I had all but settled on buying a 1963
AMC Ambassador. The day before I intended to go buy the AMC, I
just happened to take a peek at which Chevrolet trucks were on the
market.
GM trucks are simple, robust machines, and the market is waking
up to the 1973–87s as classics, so they’re getting more expensive. I
won’t say I’ve always wanted one, but as they’re a handsome, utilitarian
design and something I can work on for fun, I like them. So I’d been
watching for the right rig.
That’s when I spotted it.
It was cherry red with a tan stripe running down the length of both
30 AmericanCarCollector.com
sides. The burgundy velour bench-seat interior — oh so 1980s — made
me want it more. Then I saw that it had a factory 454-cubic-inch V8
under the hood and just 103,000 miles on the odometer. That sealed the
deal. I had to have it.
The truck was located outside Coeur d’Alene, ID. The owners,
Kelly and Rosie, were willing to meet me halfway in Kennewick, WA.
We agreed upon $3,500 and arranged to meet the following Saturday
morning.
Kelly and Rosie had been in possession of the C20 for less than
a year. They didn’t know much of its history, aside from what was
included in the glovebox.
I later discovered the original build sheet stuffed in with the owner’s
manual. It had been built in Janesville, WI, on a Tuesday.
As I climbed into the truck for the first time, Kelly winced a smile
at me. I could tell he was worried; I don’t think he believed it could
make it to Portland.
“If you didn’t buy it, an 80-year-old chicken farmer down the way
from us was going to take it,” Kelly said, as I twisted the ignition and
the 454 rumbled to life.
Steamboat Chevy
I’d only ever driven one other square-body GM, and that was years
ago, so driving this one was a fresh experience for me.
Truck-like didn’t begin to describe the C20’s driving dynamics.
Steering it felt more like steering a steamboat up the Mississippi than
driving a truck down I-84.
On-center feel was nonexistent. I had to jerk the wheel up to five or
six inches to the left and right just to keep it tracking straight-ish down
the highway.
Page 29
Mashing the throttle didn’t give the thrust I expected, but it did de-
liver gobs of torque. 1986 was the last year for carburation on the 454.
Although it put out 10 more horsepower than ’87’s fuel-injected variant,
it still put out far too few ponies for its 7.4 liters of displacement
— around 240. But hey, this is a 454, just like an old LS6 Chevelle, and
Chevy trucks are simple, right? I figured I could wake it up with speed
parts later.
Out on the highway, with my cruise control set and my boat-
steering reflexes almost fully developed, I had some time to take a
better look around. The dashpad had some cracks. The cloth seat cover
showed a few tears. Some owner along the way must have had an
energetic dog, since the door panels had hundreds of claw marks along
the window line.
Around that time I became aware of a noise. A big one. I don’t mean
the engine — that was relatively quiet. No, there was a deafening wind
noise at right around 75 mph.
Four pennies had been stacked beneath the driver’s side wing-
window latch, so that wasn’t getting any more shut. Both the driver’s
and passenger’s side windows were fully cranked closed. Still, the
white noise of air whipping past the squared-off lines of the Chevy was
immense.
Good thing I was alone in the truck. I wouldn’t have been able to
hear my passenger.
Complex simplicity
After about five hours of futzing and much swearing. Winslow and
I eventually seated that cylinder-eight spark-plug wire. Don’t ask me
how; I am still not quite sure what got it.
Winslow now regularly tells the story of the five-hour Chevy tune-
up. Don’t get me started on the special plug wires I had to order, either,
as the truck had non-common emissions components for this part of the
world. Regular 454 C20 wires wouldn’t fit. I tried. With two different
sets. But at the end of the day, the job is done, and that feels great.
Did it really need the tune? Probably not. The thing returned eight
miles per gallon before and after the work, so it probably served to tune
up my psyche more than it did the ignition system.
The day after I was spread out across the engine compartment, a
theme popped into my head: complex simplicity.
This truck is ostensibly basic: gas-burning large-displacement V8,
rear-wheel drive, automatic, with crank windows. It’s the niggling
details — such as emissions-market-specific plug wires —that make
for a challenge now. But I’m up for it.
Next up is solving the loose steering and that wind noise. It can’t be
that hard, right? It’s just a Chevy truck. A
September–October 2019 31
Page 32
WRENCHING: HOW TO
CARB
REFRESH
Age and use can take a toll on a Holley 4-bbl.
Here’s how to bring one back to life
by Jim Pickering
T
he aftermarket scene is all about fuel injection these days, but there’s a lot
to love about a carburetor. That is, until it starts to leak all over your intake
manifold.
Holley has been making carburetors since 1904. Their carbs came standard
on original muscle cars and trucks throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
Both Holley’s OE versions and aftermarket performance carbs are great choices
for classic cars, but while they are simple and typically trouble-free, like any carb,
they do need attention from time to time.
Over years of use, gaskets can leak, float bowls will fill with crud, needles and
seats can get sticky or blocked, and floats can sink. Any of these issues can ruin
your underhood detail job, cause issues with idle or part-throttle drivability, or even
start a fire. None of that is good, but you can fix it yourself with a couple of tools, a
rebuild kit and a few hours of time on a Saturday morning.
The 289 in ACC’s ’66 Mustang was the perfect candidate for some carb work,
thanks to a couple of leaks and a few minor tuning issues that needed to be resolved.
A quick rebuild was in order — so I called up Summit Racing, ordered a Holley
rebuild kit and got to work.
Carburetors may seem complex, but there’s really nothing to this job. Here’s how
to do it.
34 AmericanCarCollector.com
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
SUMMIT RACING PARTS LIST
Holley Carburetor TricKit, P/N 37-119, $32.04
OTHER PARTS
CRC Carburetor Cleaner, 20-ounce spray can (3), $3.49 each
TIME SPENT: Two hours
DIFFICULTY: JJ
(JJJJJ is toughest)
Page 33
1
ACC’s Mustang runs a Holley 4-bbl on top of an Edelbrock intake
manifold. This was originally a 2-bbl car, swapped to 4-bbl power
by its previous owner. That job was done years ago, and the carb
clearly hadn’t been touched since. It was leaky, oxidized, and had sat for a
while with fuel in the bowls. A rebuild just made sense here.
2
The first step to any rebuild is to verify which carburetor you have
so you can source the proper rebuild kit. Holleys are identified by
the numbers stamped on the air horn — in this case, this carb is
P/N 80457-3 3414. Using Holley’s site, that decodes to a 4160-style carburetor,
which in this case is a vacuum-secondary 600 CFM 4-bbl. The rebuild
kit for this carb is P/N 37-119 — Summit racing had it in stock, shipped it
out, and I had it in my garage the next day.
3
5
You’ll also need a way to clean parts.
Carb and Choke cleaner, or in this
case, “Clean-R-Carb” by CRC, is a good
way to tackle fuel deposits both inside and outside
a carburetor. Other than a few wrenches
and screwdrivers, this is all you really need to
make an old carburetor look and perform like
new again.
With the battery disconnected, the
fuel line is the first thing to come
apart. This line typically holds re-
sidual pressure from the fuel pump once the
engine has been shut off, so unless you’re
dealing with a cold engine, expect to get
some fuel dribble once the line is disconnected.
I took a small, clean bolt from my
stash and stuck it in the end of the fuel line,
then retightened the clamp over the bolt to
stop any fuel leaking while I was working.
September–October 2019 35
4
Here’s what’s inside Holley P/N 37-119: a bunch of different gaskets for the carb body and the float
bowls, new needle and seat assemblies, a new power valve, a new accelerator pump diaphragm,
and a variety of other seals, O-rings, clips and documentation.
Page 34
WRENCHING: HOW TO
6
Before removing the carburetor, I first
had to remove the throttle arm, which
is held in place with a small cotter pin.
There’s also typically a washer here as well. A
pair of pliers made quick work of it. I also removed
the vacuum line running to the distributor,
the power wire for the electric choke, and
the PCV hose in preparation for pulling the carb
off the engine.
7
10
9
Teardown time. I typically start by removing
the rear float-bowl first, but
either one can be first. They’re held in
place with four 5/16 hex bolts — note that the
front and rear bolts are different lengths, so don’t
get them mixed up. There’s also a tube that connects
the front and rear float bowls — it’s sealed
with rubber fittings that need to be wiggled free.
Four half-inch nuts fix the carburetor
to the intake manifold. After
removing them and their lock
washers, the carb is free to come off the engine.
I placed all this hardware in a plastic bin so I
wouldn’t lose anything.
Up front,
with the
front bowl
removed, you can see
the main jets and the
power valve. This
section of the carburetor,
known as the
metering block assembly,
also handles
the idle mixture via a
pair of adjuster
screws on either side.
8
It’s smart to stuff a clean rag down
into the intake manifold opening, just
to be sure nothing would make its way
down in there — nuts, bolts, washers, clips, etc.
This is good insurance, as anything that falls
down inside the intake will end up inside one of
your cylinders.
12
11
The longer float-bowl screws up front
also hold the metering block to the
carb, so a little gentle sideways prying
with a small screwdriver is all you need to free it.
36 AmericanCarCollector.com
A Holley carburetor uses a power valve
to enrich the fuel mixture under low
vacuum conditions, such as when you
go to full throttle. These are available in different
sizes (vacuum ratings) for a variety of applications,
or to tune your fuel delivery. These
used to be sensitive to backfires, but Holley has
since corrected that issue with a special built-in
check valve to protect the valve. A 1-inch wrench
works best here.
13
If your engine was running well, you
can just count the number of turns on
each of the two idle-mixture screws for
a baseline to get the engine running again.
Here it was one-and-a-half turns before they
bottomed out, which gave a good ballpark of
where they’d need to be upon reassembly. Next,
remove them and their cork seals. A screwdriver
and small hooked pick tool work great.
Page 36
WRENCHING: HOW TO
14
The idle-mixture screws can be damaged
if they’ve been over-tightened.
These screws are in good shape, but if
you find yours have been rounded over or otherwise
damaged, Holley sells replacements.
15
A 4160 carb is a vacuum-secondary
carb with only one metering block
— out back, it uses a metering plate
that’s non-adjustable and held in place with
special secondary metering-plate screws. To
replace the gasket and clean everything really
well, it all needs to come apart.
18
17
OE gasket material tends to stick to
aluminum pretty well, but it all needs
to be removed to ensure a solid seal
and no internal vacuum leaks in your newly
rebuilt carb. I like to use a flathead screwdriver
(carefully) on the heavier stuff and a brass wire
brush everywhere, as the brass won’t harm aluminum.
Cleaning is
where most of
your time will
be spent on a job like
this. These parts have
just been subjected to a
heavy dose of carb
cleaner — and I also
blew cleaner through
all the air bleeds and
orifice holes as well to
dislodge any grime that
might have collected
over the years. Now
reassembly can begin.
16
With the electric choke assembly removed,
the next step is to remove the
baseplate from the carburetor main
body. Six screws from the bottom hold this all
together — but they’re all the same size, so
getting it apart and back together isn’t tough.
Pulling all this apart allows for a good cleaning
and an inspection of the baseplate for any play
in the throttle shafts. If there’s play, you’ll either
need to swap the base or have it repaired with
new throttle-blade bushings.
19
The old gaskets
can show you
which new ones
from the kit to use. Once
you’re certain that everything
is both clean and true,
the baseplate and the carb
can go back together using
the original screws — as
can the secondary metering
plate and its new gasket.
38 AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 38
WRENCHING: HOW TO
20
Before swapping out the
needle and seat assembly
— and all the assorted
gaskets — it’s important to take a
measurement of the float height,
as it’s adjustable. Note that this
bowl is upside-down — that’s the
measurement you want, from the
top of the float to the top of the
float bowl. Do this for both the
front and rear. If you’d like to
change it, Holley has specs for a
baseline setting in the instructions
that come with this kit — and you
can set the height by pulling the
two sight plugs out of the fuel
bowls, firing up the engine and
adjusting the level until fuel starts
to dribble out.
21
The float height is adjusted
with a hex nut at
the top of each fuel bowl
and locked in place with a flathead
screw. Turning the nut will raise or
lower the needle and seat assembly,
which will also raise or lower
the fuel level in the float bowl.
With the screw and the hex nut out
of the way, the needle and seat
assembly can be removed with a
5/16-inch wrench. It comes out the
top.
22
The new needle and seat assembly
is identical to the old
one, but you should check to
make sure it is indeed the proper part.
Both of these are stamped with the same
markings — both are 0.097 units. All
that’s left is to install the new one where
the old one was, and to replace the seals
for the adjusting hardware.
23
With the new needle and seat installed,
new rubber bushings in place for the
fuel-transfer tube, and new gaskets for
the adjuster nut and lock screw, the rear float
bowl can be reinstalled. Holley’s kit comes with
new seals for the 5/16 hex bolts, too.
24
40 AmericanCarCollector.com
Up front, the metering block gets its
new power valve. Note the large opening
in each power valve — these take
the large, round seal. Holley also used a different
design power valve with smaller holes, which
uses a different seal. You must use the correct
seal with the power valve you’re using. The new
seal is in place here, and the new valve is on the
right.
25
With the idle-mixture screws and their
new seals installed, the power valve
and main jets fitted, and the proper
gasket in place, the metering block can go back
on the carb body. The seal is held in place with
several pins on the block. If you counted your
turns for the idle-mixture screw settings, this is a
good time to set them both back to those spots.
Page 39
26
The accelerator pump works via a rubber check valve — the new
kit comes with a replacement, and the original just pulls out of the
way. I’ve already stuck the new one in place, but you can see how
the old one has discolored over time.
27
After the check valve, the original spring and the new acceleratorpump
diaphragm are next, held in place with four screws.
28
29
All that’s left now is to reinstall the front fuel bowl and its new gasket, as well as the electric-choke assembly — and verify correct operation
of the throttle blades, both open and shut. After that, the carb is complete and ready for reinstallation on the 289.
With the carb installed and
checked for leaks, the final step
is to dial the idle tune. After
cranking over the engine and getting it to
operating temp, connect a vacuum gauge
to full-manifold vacuum. With the engine
idling, turn one screw in (tightening) until
the engine starts to stumble, and then
back it off slowly. The needle on the vacuum
gauge should climb. When the
gauge stops climbing, turn an additional
quarter turn. Doing the same thing to the
other side should get you a clean, crisp
idle. With that, your Holley should be
fresh and ready for the road again.A
September–October 2019 41
Page 40
YOUR TURN
Tell Us What’s On Your Mind
Contact us at American Car Collector, P.O. Box 4797, Portland, OR 97208 or online at
comments@americancarcollector.com
1996 Corvette Grand Sport, sold at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach for $35,750. Was the price high or under-market?
Courtesy of Barrett-Jackson
Grand Sport Values?
Re: the Chevrolet Grand Sport that sold
at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach (ACC July–
August 2019, p. 79):
A little high? Huh. Stick to your fave
euros, guys; this car was way, WAY under
market. Maybe it’s your reviewer. — Rob,
via email
ACC Auction Editor Chad Tyson
responds: Thanks for the comment, Rob. I’m
assuming you’re referencing the Corvette
Grand Sport coupe sold for $35,750 by
Barrett-Jackson at their West Palm Beach
sale in April 2019 as Lot 361. And the “a
little high?” was in reference to auction
analyst John Hoshstrasser’s sentence, “The
final sales price looks a little high, but the
buyer paid up for the very low miles and
excellent condition.”
With the help of Senior Data Editor
Chad Taylor, we pulled the sales number of
‘96 Grand Sports for each of the past four
years (2016 through 2019 so far). We found
15 coupes that sold over that period. In a
straight list, from most to least expensive,
the GS in question ranked as the fifth most
expensive. Of those 15, we ran four of them
in either ACC or our sister publication,
Sports Car Market.
Great condition is pretty standard (each
one we reviewed was 2+ or 1- condition),
and variation from stock is often minimal —
these were special Corvettes, after all. The
only real, valuable distinction one can have
among the ’96 Grand Sport coupes is the
red leather or the much-more-common black
42 AmericanCarCollector.com
leather interior. None that we covered had
the red seats.
To your point, directly. Let’s look at two
of my favorite numbers for generalizing
trends in the market: median and average.
The median price (exact middle of the list
ranked most to least pricey) for recent years
is $28,738. This is the middle of the market
as bracketed by the $55k high and $22k low
for our given car and date range. The average
GS coupe price over that time? $33,282.
The car in question exceeded both,
putting it over market in my estimation —
especially considering how high the floor is
for this particular model compared with its
Corvette brethren.
The most expensive car from our time
frame came in at $55k, and that happened
twice. Mecum sold a GS in Indy 2017, which
we reported on, with 531 miles and a twin
convertible selling immediately before it for
$66k. The other $55k GS coupe sold in the
past four years was at Barrett-Jackson’s
2018 Las Vegas sale. (It also was part of
sequential convertible-then-coupe sales,
although that convertible sold for $44k.) The
$55k Barrett car also had 5,202 miles, which
is nearly 3.5 times the mileage of the West
Palm Beach Grand Sport. While there seems
to be a big premium for sub-four-digit mileage,
there’s little evidence that over-1k to
under-6k miles makes a marked difference.
Five-digit mileage is likely a different story,
but not something we’re dealing with here.
Considering all that, I’ll stick with our
original opinion on the sale. A
Page 42
Buy, Sell or Hold?
READERS’ FORUM
Late-Model Corvettes:
Crowdsourcing Answers to Your Car Questions
Contact us at: American Car Collector, P.O. Box 4797, Portland, OR 97208 or online at comments@americancarcollector.com
2020 C8 Corvette
Image courtesy of Chevrolet
This month’s Readers’ Forum question:
In July 2019, GM announced its all-new mid-engine Corvette for 2020. The Internet has been buzzing ever since — from
the $60k base price through the GPS-equipped leveling system. Word of this new Corvette’s arrival has already changed the
performance-car world.
What does this mean for other, older Corvette prices?
The C7 is a fantastic car — its performance is the best of what’s possible out of a front-engine, rear-drive sports car. But with
the C8 now on the way, should buyers be thinking about selling these cars? Or will the C8’s debut make it a good time to buy a C6
or C7, as prices are about to fall? Maybe it’s time to hold — after all, the new layout isn’t yet proven in the eyes of consumers, and
changing up the Corvette’s traditional dynamics didn’t work all that well with the C4 ZR-1. Perhaps hanging on to that last-gen
Z06 isn’t a bad idea.
We’d like to know what you think about the C6 and C7 in this new mid-engine climate. Should you buy, sell, or hold — and
why?
Readers respond:
The C6 is a tremendous car. This I would rate a buy. I would hold
the C7 until the C8 shows its true colors. — A.C. Buck, via email
n n n
My guess is that the value of the late-model cars will drop like a
rock. Corvettes have never had a great resale value (they make too many
of them), and with GM finally making it a mid-engine, late models will
be as exciting as a soap-box derby car. — Bill Van Ess, via email
n n n
Commenting on late-model Corvette values, the equation is
simple. There is no end (yet) in sight of ever-higher-horsepower cars
being delivered to the consumer market. Anything less than the pinnacle
of high horse/torque will and has depreciated like a rock. That
includes the C7 ZR1 all the way to the King of the Hill C4 ZR-1. —
Erik Hoheneder, via email
n n n
They are used cars. Good used cars, but nonetheless too new
to have an immediate upside. Not much of a decision here. — Bill
Warner, via email
n n n
2013 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 coupe, sold for $81,400 by RM
Auctions at Fort Lauderdale, FL, in March
44 AmericanCarCollector.com
There will always be a market for the C6 and 7.
The C8 is going to be a backyard machinist’s nightmare, plus
Page 43
when it’s what you want, the window sticker will be over $100,000.
There will be so many dealer add-ons to the window sticker, plus the
C8 will be around for the next 10 years in production — the price will
come down, I’m thinking! — Zon Davison, via email
n n n
Too soon to tell. I’m a former Corvette owner, and I think the
C8 is ugly regardless of its performance. Kit car comes to mind. It
looks like a cross between a Fiero, a Fiat, an R8, a 458, a Camaro
and a combination of Japanese cars after a high-speed pileup. The
price, performance and name is the only thing going for it. Lose the
body! The last collectible ’Vette was a chrome-bumper C3. Maybe a
later anniversary C3, C4, ZR-1, C5 or any limited-production C6 or
C7 model — but the values aren’t there. It’s a wait-and-see moment.
—Robert M., via email
n n n
I am 71 years old, so keeping a car as an investment is a fool’s
game. I am keeping my 2013 C6 LT4 convertible for the rest of my
days. Then my kids can decide what to do with it.
I really do not care where prices go, as it is the first Corvette I
actually feel comfortable in. At six-foot-two, I fit perfectly. I did not
buy it as an investment, but for something to drive that’s bigger and
more powerful than my Miata, which I only fit in with the top down.
I bought it in March 2019 with 1,567 miles on the clock and now have
5,000 on my way to as many as I can get. — Norm Knesal, via email
n n n
I think it’s a good idea to keep the older front-engine ’Vettes. The
2009–13 Corvettes are more comfortable than the 2014s-and-up.
People usually want the older models that they can’t buy anymore. I
think it’s a good idea to buy the new mid-engine ’Vette, too. I have
owned a 1966, a 1967, a 1968 and a 1972 as well as a 2009 Corvette.
— Richard F, Staten Island, NY, via email
n n n
Reality check: The generic mass-produced Corvette is not a great
investment. Take a look at the values of a really clean 300-hp 1964
coupe... Or a well-equipped C3 with an L48... Or just about any C4
(kinda sad, really).
And this is the general problem with all modern Corvettes, and
many modern exotics, too. There are so many out there, pickling one
seems to me to be a real exercise in financial futility. I would much
rather stuff $100k in more Berkshire Hathaway B-stocks... they are
I’m a former Corvette owner, and I think the C8 is
ugly regardless of its performance. Kit car comes
to mind. It looks like a cross between a Fiero, a
Fiat, an R8, a 458, a Camaro and a combination of
Japanese cars after a high-speed pileup.
returning 12% per year!
I would think, if one was to be worth money in, say, 30 years, it
would be the C7 ZR1. They didn’t make many, pinnacle of performance,
yada yada yada... but, as noted, they said the same thing about
the C4 ZR-1. That thing is STILL a used car.
I guess, when it comes right down to it, it’s a crapshoot. They
could be worth preserving, and at some historic level, I am sure they
are, but I am of the mindset to enjoy the damned thing, then park it
before it’s totally junked and worry about the ground-up resto!
Nothing breaks my heart more than seeing an ad on the Web —
some poor sap has some old car, paid way too much for when new,
only has delivery miles, and they are asking so much over reality
that it will never sell — or are realists and are just hoping someone
doesn’t mind replacing rubber parts. Sigh.
My magic 8-ball must be on the fritz, ’cause I can’t make sense of
it... there are so many variables... Enjoy them and let the next generation
lament our abuses. — Andy Bogus, San Pedro, CAA
I would think, if one was to be worth money in,
say, 30 years, it would be the C7 ZR1. They didn’t
make many, pinnacle of performance, yada yada
yada... but, as noted, they said the same thing
about the C4 ZR-1. That thing is STILL a used car.
755-hp 2019 Corvette ZR1
Image courtesy of Chevrolet
September–October 2019 45
Page 44
CHEAP THRILLS
CHEAP THR
uthor’s 1979 Mustang Turbo circa 1985 — to include the Malaise-era prerequisite vicious cartoon snake on the hood
Early Turbos paved the way for the SVO and the current EcoBoost Mustang
W
hen the Fox-body Ford Mustang arrived for 1979, Ford
had to deal with a market that favored economy more
than perfor
AP THRILLS
The
The author’s 1979 Mustang Turbo circa 1985 — to include the Malaise-era prerequisite vicious cartoon snake on the hood
Early Turbos paved the way for the SVO and the current EcoBoost Mustang
W
hen the Fox-body Ford Mustang arrived for 1979, Ford
had to deal with a market that favored economy more
than performance.
The OPEC oil crisis had unfolded just as the Mustang
II was introduced for 1974. While that car sold well, it
was lambasted for lackluster performance. The lukewarm 302-ci V8
just wasn’t endearing to those who recalled Mustangs with Ram Air
429s under the hood.
A new governmental mandate called CAFE (Corporate Average
Fuel Economy) was also in the mix. Ford needed to sell more highereconomy
cars than gas guzzlers. To have both economy and some
semblance of performance, Ford offered five engines in the new 1979
Mustang — one being a turbocharged 2.3-L 4.
Mustang with boost
The 2.3-L was the entry-level engine for the Mustang, but in nor-
mally aspirated 88-horsepower tune. With a Garrett turbocharger in
the mix, the rated horsepower nearly doubled to 140 — conveniently
the same as the 302 V8.
The only transmission available with it was a wide-radio 4-speed
manual, while the V8 could be had with a different 4-speed and
a 3-speed automatic. The 2.3-L turbo option was available in the
Mustang across all trim levels. This included the performancethemed
hatchback-only Cobra and Indy Pace Car packages.
The turbo returned unchanged for 1980, with trim and graphics
changes to the Cobra package — essentially wearing the same air
dam and faux hood scoop as the one-year-only ’79 Pace Car.
Ford had to perform a bunch of service work on the turbos, revolv-
46 AmericanCarCollector.com
1984 Ford Mustang Turbo GT convertible
ing around drivability and maintaining a balancing act between the
2-barrel carburetor and the turbo. There was also the dreaded “turbo
lag” that customers complained about, in addition to heat-soak issues
with the turbo if it was shut down hot.
I owned a 1979 Turbo Cobra in 1985, and in that pre-Internet-
forum era, the talk around those cars was to let them idle for a few
minutes to cool down and pump fresh oil into the main shaft of the
turbo. We were asking for trouble by just shutting it off right after
running it hard (such as stopping at a freeway rest area after driving
Page 45
for several hours). With Ford realizing that they didn’t quite have the turbo thing
dialed in yet, they dropped it for the 1981 model year.
By 1983, the turbocharged 2.3-L was back — this time fed by electronic fuel
injection, which improved the drivability markedly. However, Ford got V8 religion
midway during 1982, introducing the 175-hp 5.0-L V8 in the Mustang GT.
To play to the ranks of those who were starting to embrace turbocharged engines
(and to keep those CAFE numbers down), Ford introduced a Turbo GT in mid-1983.
It was basically a GT with the turbo 2.3L, with slightly recalibrated suspension to
allow for the lighter 4-banger up front. Unlike the 5.0 GT, it could only be had in
the hatchback. It was also the most expensive fixed-roof Mustang, with an MSRP of
$9,714 — $265 more than the 5.0-powered GT hatchback.
1984 was a year of continual changes for the Mustang. The Turbo GT not only
was carried over initially into 1984, but was also made available as a convertible.
However, the Turbo GT’s days were numbered, as Ford also revealed the Mustang
SVO. With an intercooler, the SVO was initially rated at 175 hp — once again, the
same as the 5.0 V8. However, the SVO and the 5.0 GT catered to opposite markets,
and that’s where this story ends, with Ford dropping the Turbo GT during 1984.
A snail in a sea of V8s
Today, one rarely finds one of these pre-SVO turbos. Early drivability issues
made resale values of 1979s and ’80s plummet, causing these cars to fall into the
hands of owners who either really didn’t know how to deal with the turbo or didn’t
care and ran them into the ground.
As gas became more affordable from the mid-1980s through the 1990s, the
unloved turbos with good bodies were more often than not built up with 5.0 V8s.
If attacked by the tin worm in the Rust Belt, it was a death sentence ending in the
junkyard. As such, the hardest thing about getting one today is actually finding one.
Your best bet is one of the 1979 Indy Pace Car editions, as quite a few were bought
as “instant collectibles” back when new — a year after the 1978 IPC Corvette all but
created that term.
Detailing
Years produced: 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984
Number produced: 1979–83 production totals not broken
down by engine type; 1984, 350 Turbo GT hatchbacks, 104
Turbo GT convertibles
Original list price: $6,515 (1979 Cobra Turbo), $13,441
(1984 Turbo GT convertible)
Current ACC Median Valuation: $8,763
Tune-up/major service: $250
VIN location: Top of the dashboard on the driver’s side,
driver’s door jamb decal
Engine # location: Driver’s side front of the engine block,
just below the cylinder head
Alternatives: 1984–86 Ford Mustang SVO, 1983–88 Ford
Thunderbird TurboCoupe, 1984–93 Dodge Daytona Turbo
fastback
ACC Investment Grade: D
From Turbo to EcoBoost
These cars still have a three-legged-dog stigma to
them, but they are better appreciated today in Mustang
enthusiast circles — especially the rare Turbo GTs.
Ford is now only offering the 2.3-L EcoBoost or
V8s only in the S550 Mustangs — to include a new
330-hp 2.3-L High Performance Package for 2020.
It may have taken four decades of stops and starts to
get there, but the economy and performance edge of the
two-bladed Mustang sword is finally sharply honed. A
September–October 2019 47
Page 46
HORSEPOWER
Jay Harden
500 MILES of GLORY
Indy draws in people from all over — and the allure of the Greatest
Spectacle in Racing spans distance, demographics and generations
Vintage racers displayed in the Indy museum
T
he crowd forming for our Friday afternoon
flight was growing impatient. Families with
small children, the elderly, and veterans had already
disappeared down the jetway, and the rest
of us began pushing forward with expectation.
I looked down at my phone and checked the weather
in Indianapolis again as Group A began boarding.
“Not looking good for Sunday,” I heard someone say.
“Yeah, might be in store for the first rainout since ’97,”
another quipped. I almost checked another weather
site, but then I thought better of it. I was getting on the
plane to Indy either way.
The Indianapolis 500 was calling. Like the rest of
the race-crazy fans around me, I wasn’t going to miss
my shot at attending one of America’s most revered
racing traditions.
After the flight, it was easy to see where to go.
Standing beneath the placard I was searching for curbside
stood a handful of neatly dressed gray-haired men
in full-on traveling-dad garb. On bottom, they were all
wearing khaki shorts or pants with zip-off legs, while
up top they rocked pressed-and-tucked-in race-car
T-shirts or polos.
They were double-checking their organized folders
of printed receipts and shuttle schedules and pickup
locations amongst themselves while bemoaning the
shuttle driver’s tardiness. I’ve never been able to verify
my location, transportation options, and local forecast
as quickly and as accurately in my life.
My own father was waiting for me at the hotel bar,
his flight from Atlanta having arrived a few hours
earlier. He had already managed to make friends
with a random group of strangers from all over. The
crowd consisted of a few Aussies, a couple of Tommy
Bahama-clad men chewing unlit cigars, a few young
couples, and several retirement-age men — all of
48 AmericanCarCollector.com
Patience is a virtue. The only people moving quickly in Indy are on the track
whom wore the unmistakable giddiness of the first hour of vacation, and all of
whom had come here for the same reason — to be a part of the world’s oldest major
automobile race. I had some catching up to do.
Buffets and a yard of bricks
Saturday morning was upon us several hours too early, particularly for those of
us hailing from the West Coast. My dad scheduled a full hour for us to get to the
lobby, eat breakfast and get in line for the bus that was to take us to the track for prerace
festivities. That was about 50 minutes more than I would have scheduled, but
Page 47
about an hour less than he wanted to schedule.
When we reached the buffet, I could see in his eyes that the
empty coffee mugs and half-eaten bagels were like deer tracks in the
snow on a cold morning hunt. We were early, but not early enough. I
checked the weather again. Rain was on its way, and it looked angry.
Our wagon train of charter buses dropped us off in a strip-mall
parking lot directly across the street from the track entrance. The lot
and adjoining yard were full of RVs and fifth-wheel campers, pop-up
awnings, lawn chairs and coolers. We had about four hours to wander
the grounds, explore the pits and attend the drivers’ meeting.
We went ahead and posed for many of our obligatory “We were
here!” photos, knowing full well that race day would be a complete
zoo, but the scope of the Brickyard was difficult to capture. The place
is humongous, with two and a half miles of oval asphalt stretching
much farther than you might think two and a half miles should.
We explored, taking our time taking it all in. We toured the pits
and ate fried track food and got barked at by security before making
our way to the drivers’ meeting. The sun began to beat down on us,
but the clouds were high, heavy and increasing. I checked the weather
again.
Start your engines
Race day was upon us early, but this time I was ready. The hotel
was buzzing. Early-morning sunlight was streaming through the
lobby windows while everyone fueled up three-wide on scrambled
eggs, sausage, coffee and Bloody Marys.
Once on the bus, we watched the throng of bodies multiply with
every block we passed. No point in checking the weather now. Our
commitment looked like it was about to pay off.
Once in our seats on the front stretch, Dad dialed in his radio as I
cracked peanut shells, sipped cold beer and archived the moment in
my mind. The starting line bristled with 33 contenders, all looking to
The updated Pagoda towers above the track
position their open-wheel weapons ahead of the pack and earn their
place in history.
For backup, I snapped pictures to shuttle off to friends and family.
“Where are you?” one reply shot back. “Up on the front straight, right
across from the pits,” I said.
“No way,” came the response. “I’m in turn two…”
Kelly Clarkson then began her performance of the national
anthem as a quartet of the Air Force’s finest approached from a distance,
and all 300,000 of us rose to our feet in solidarity. Then, those
famous words — the ones we had all traveled so far to hear — reverberated
through the grounds. “Drivers! Start. Your. Engines!” A
September–October 2019 49
Page 48
ON THE ROAD
Elana Scherr
No Jensen Today
A failed attempt to buy a car
I didn’t even know I wanted
The Jensen Interceptor hid an American 440 V8 under an Italian-designed hood on an English-built chassis. This engine is going in yet
another Interceptor that I can’t buy, a customer of British race shop I.C.E in Silverstone, England
I
t’s a romance-novel cliché — the rejection that heightens desire,
the hard-to-get love interest’s repeated refusals that only inflame
passion.
It was not a trope I expected to fall prey to while car shopping,
but here I am, absolutely trembling with longing for a car
I hadn’t even been searching for. All because the owner won’t sell it
to me.
“Oh sure,” you say, unsympathetic, picturing a yard-parked Dodge
Charger whose owner plans to restore it someday and has grown
weary of every wannabe flipper knocking on his door. No! This car
is for sale. I called on the ad. I offered the asking price, and I was
rejected.
Now there is nothing I want more than a Jensen Interceptor.
A what now?
Alan and Richard Jensen began building cars in the 1930s. They
worked as coachbuilders, and founded Jensen Motors Limited in
1934. The Jensens built bodies for various other car companies, but
they wanted to design their own. Like most manufacturers, they did
military work during World War II, but at the end of the war they
went back to cars. Jensen designs were better than their engineering,
primarily due to engine troubles with their early-’50s models, but
by 1962 they’d worked out the bugs and the Jensen CV8 was a lightweight
combo of aluminum and fiberglass, and one of the fastest cars
on the English roads.
50 AmericanCarCollector.com
Wait, what? Yes, Jensen is an English car company and this is
American Car Collector, but the engine that made such a difference
in the CV8 was a Chrysler 361-ci V8 (later replaced by the 383-ci
engine), and if you tilt forward the long bonnet on an Interceptor
you’ll see the glory of America in the engine bay — a 7.2-L Chrysler
440-ci V8.
For those of us who want international travel on our commute,
and whose favorite cars tend to be those with European outfits over
bald-eagle engines, the Interceptor is an appealing mashup of Italian
design, British handling and a solidly starred-and-striped powerplant.
The Interceptor wasn’t a massive success at the time of its offer-
ing — although it was well received at the 1966 London Motor Show,
and the 4-wheel drive version came third in the European Car of
the Year awards in 1967. Despite its Aston-Martinesque profile and
high-horsepower heart, the Interceptor was handicapped by infighting
within Jensen, and difficulties in manufacturing and marketing.
The result is that the Interceptor is a rare car — fewer than
7,000 built — but one that never really caught the imagination of
mainstream collectors. Prices on Interceptors have hovered around
the $30,000 range for years. Of course, $30,000 is well outside my
project-car buying power, which is why I was so excited when a random
Craigslist search by my husband, Tom, turned up a 1973 Jensen
Interceptor for $16,000.
It was a typical Web ad. There was a photo of the car, mostly in
focus, a photo of the engine, enough to see at least two-thirds of it,
Page 49
and a few blurry details of a speedometer, the trunk, and a manila
envelope of paperwork labeled “73 Jensen.” The useless half-shots
just made me more intrigued.
Taxes? Whatever
Remember, I wasn’t shopping for a Jensen. In fact, I wasn’t shop-
ping for a new project at all, what with the dozen different cars and
trucks already in the yard and garage. It was just that price — half
what they go for — and those infuriating photos. So taunting, so
tempting. What does the interior look like? No idea. You have to buy
it to find out.
Even though the Interceptor was cheap, it wasn’t anywhere close
to perfect. The seller said it drove fine, and wasn’t rusty, but the dark
blue paint had faded to a chalky gray, and the interior — when additional
photos were sent — showed the plush leather buckets were as
dry and cracked as the El Mirage lakebed.
Sales literature of the time bragged that each interior was four
cows’ worth of sacrifice. Bringing this Interceptor up to the level of
the ones going for $35,000 would likely require its asking price and
then some.
Even so, it felt like a steal. Sometimes it isn’t about the invest-
ment, but the likelihood of ever coming across another car in your
price range again. In the time it had taken to scroll through the ad and
watch old Interceptor commercials on YouTube, I’d fallen in love.
Rejection
So we tried to buy it. I gave my bank account a firm talking-to
about priorities and how far away tax time is. Tom called on the ad,
talked to the guy, and offered to send a deposit. No haggling, no at-
This isn’t the car I tried to buy, but it’s a ’73 that went for $18k in
2012. They now generally start at twice that
tempt to talk him down. And then the seller said no.
Well, he didn’t say no exactly, but he said he didn’t want a deposit,
because what if we didn’t come get the car? “Uh, that’s what the
deposit is for,” Tom said. No, no, the guy didn’t think we would come,
not all the way up from Los Angeles to Sacramento. Nothing Tom
said would convince him to take our money. “I’ll think about it,” he
said at the end of the call, and hung up.
I’m not mad; I mean, the guy has the right to choose his buyer.
He probably got enough calls that he rethought his asking price, or
maybe he really did think we wouldn’t bother to travel 300 miles to
buy a weird old car.
I’m trying to think of it as the world protecting me from myself,
but I can’t help but feel a sense of loss.
What can I say? The heart wants what it wants. A
September–October 2019 51
DETAILING
Years produced: 1963
Number produced: 10,919
Original list price: $4,037
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $47,500
Tune-up/major service:
$500 (NOS parts,
estimated)
VIN location: Cross brace
under glovebox
Engine # location: On
block in front of right
cylinder head
Alternatives: 1972 Chevrolet
Corvette 454 LS5 convertible;
1995 Corvette ZR-1;
2011 Corvette convertible
ACC Investment Grade: B
Comps
The only clue as to potential body damage is that
mis-fitting right headlight door. As well, the paint
sheen (reflectivity) varies between the left front fender,
left door, left quarter panel and headlight doors… although
that could be a photo trick. Regardless, there’s
plenty of paint damage — stone chips and scratches
— to add character.
As-found frights
Rust, grime and grit reign under the hood. That
said, it was made operable, as evidence by new sparkplug
wires, distributor cap, alternator belt, ballast
resistor, radiator hose, coolant-temperature sending
unit, fuel line and filter.
Why no detailing? My guess is the seller was striv-
ing for an “as-found” look. At least the presentation
was honest; the new parts were appropriate service
items and the rest was left alone. Fair enough.
Things look somewhat better inside the car. The
convertible was offered with its auxiliary hard top
in place, and perhaps this explains why there is
significantly less oxidation apparent here. But the
instrument bezels, Hurst shift lever and aluminum
center console show significant weathering, in particular
the dented console metal and torn rubber shift
gaiter, which contrasts with a new-looking cue-ball
shift knob.
Under the glovebox is more weirdness. The
aluminum Trim and Paint tag is oddly bent and torn.
The clean VIN tag is riveted atop a worked-over
crossbeam. And next to the VIN tag? An unexplained
piece of angle iron sloppily attached by a low-grade
zinc-plated bolt. At this point, as a buyer, I’d be
starting to sidestep away… or else demand some clear
answers about the car’s history.
All roads lead to maybe
So what have we got here? On the positive side,
it’s a desirable first-year Sting Ray convertible with
a lusty engine, a 4-speed Muncie, both tops, and so
much patina that you’d drive it anywhere.
On the negative side, it’s a plentiful model year
(Corvette production surpassed 20,000 for the first
time in 1963), the 340-horse L76 mill was the secondmost-popular
powerplant that year, nearly 84% of
’63 Corvettes had manual transmissions, and several
thousand Daytona Blue examples were built.
Additionally, virtually no part of the car, save the
Under the glovebox is more weirdness.
The aluminum Trim and Paint tag is
oddly bent and torn. The clean VIN tag
is riveted atop a worked-over crossbeam.
And next to the VIN tag? An unexplained
piece of angle iron sloppily attached
by a low-grade zinc-plated bolt. At
this point, as a buyer, I’d be starting to
sidestep away.
shift knob and perhaps some glass or bumper parts,
appears perfect. This means that bringing this belowaverage
example up to “average” condition would
likely exceed the $11k divide between what the buyer
paid and what better cars are worth.
Translation: The buyer paid too much considering
the condition of this car. That is, until you consider the
word “patina” again.
In my own collection is a car in even worse
condition than this Corvette. And I keep it this way
precisely because it is what it is — old, authentic, and
thoroughly flawed. I like it for its genuineness and
lack of pretentiousness, and don’t mind if it shocks the
senses of the concours crowd. In fact, that’s part of the
appeal.
And so, to The Buyer Who Paid Too Much for this
’63 convertible, I say well done. We are brothers in
1963 Chevrolet Corvette
327/340 convertible
Lot 1150, VIN: 30867S101636
Condition: 3
Sold at $42,350
Leake, Oklahoma City, OK,
2/24/2017
ACC# 6827786
1963 Chevrolet Corvette
327/340 convertible
Lot 581, VIN: 30867S110411
Condition: 2Sold
at $39,500
Branson Auction, Branson,
MO, 10/20/2017
ACC# 6852386
1963 Chevrolet Corvette
327/340 convertible
Lot 793, VIN: 30867S106830
Condition: 1Sold
at $57,200
Barrett-Jackson, Las Vegas,
NV, 10/13/2016
ACC# 6809761
alarm. A
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Auctions.)
September–October 2019 53
Page 52
1957 CHEVROLET BEL AIR 2-DOOR HARD TOP
Fading Fins?
Courtesy of Barrett-Jackson
Interests may
change, but
the best cars
will still hold
their value
VIN: VC57B230563
by Jeff Zurschmeide
• Two-year frame-off restoration
• Super Turbo-Fire 283-ci V8
• Dual 4-bbl carburetors
• 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission
• Matador Red and India Ivory
• From the Vault Collection
ACC Analysis This car, Lot 636, sold for
$62,700, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at the Barrett-Jackson Northeast 2019 auction,
held June 26–29, 2019.
The venerable Tri-Five Chevrolets are foundational
vehicles in the collector-car world. There are a lot
of reasons for that, but our theory is simple: People
like the cars that were hot when they hit their teenage
years. For the first wave of Baby Boomers, that’s the
late ’50s.
Millions of these Chevys looked great on American
roads in that era, and by the time the Boomers were
learning how to drive, they were affordable as first
cars.
It’s more than nostalgia, though. GM’s designers
were on point in this era. Similar rides from Buick,
Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac were all breathtakingly
pretty. Ford and Mopar fans can say the same
about their brands. It was a golden age for new engine
power, new technology, and new enthusiasm for the
automobile.
A modern market
Today, the oldest Baby Boomers are in their mid-70s
and the youngest (including this writer) are in their
mid-50s. To put it bluntly, we’ve got money, we’ve got
time, and most of us are still well enough to enjoy
a collector car. But there are fewer of us than there
were 10 or 20 years ago, and that has an effect on the
market.
Also, many Boomers have already built or pur-
chased their dream Tri-Fives and are effectively out of
the market. Those demographics have been bringing
down values on Condition #2 and #3 cars for years.
Back about 2014, our Pocket Price Guide showed
the range on a 1957 Bel Air 2-door hard top as
$49,000 to $69,000, with the median about $59,000. By
54 AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 53
DETAILING
Years produced: 1955–57
Number produced: About
450,000 (2-door hard tops
only)
Original list price: $2,399
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $39,500
Tune-up/major service: $200
VIN location: Driver’s side
door jamb
2018, that had dropped to a $44,000 median, and this
year’s median estimate is $39,500. A 30% drop in five
years in a generally rising market ought to be a wakeup
call. A glance through recent auction sales shows
most of these cars falling in the $30,000–$50,000
range, with a few outliers.
Here’s another important thing to remember: In
the first five months of 2019, we recorded 168 Tri-Five
Chevrolets crossing the block. The total for 2018 was
333 cars. So there are plenty to choose from. Thirteen
The hard fact is this: As people who
remember any particular car in its first
incarnation age out of the car-collecting
business, the supply of restored or
maintained cars will mostly hold steady,
but the market for those cars will shrink.
That will bring prices down, especially on
Condition #2 and lower examples.
of the last 20 Tri-Fives to be presented at auction
sold. A few convertibles broke into six figures, with a
high-water mark of $180,000 for a customized 1957
Bel Air convertible, and that one was a no-sale (ACC#
6902696).
This car
To illustrate the situation, take a look at this 1957
Bel Air hard top. The car is decked out in spectacular
Matador Red with white two-tone, and a devastating
red-over-black interior. Under the hood you’ll find a
Super Turbo-Fire 283-cubic-inch small-block V8 with
two 4-barrel carbs, mated to a 2-speed Powerglide
automatic transmission. There are a few obvious
upgrades to modern standards such as the alternator,
battery and intake manifold, but nothing you couldn’t
show with pride.
This car is well above median in quality and
presentation, and with its twin-carb engine certainly
rates the 30% price bump the Pocket Price Guide suggests
for special equipment. So the $62,700 price tag
is not only justified, it’s right in line with expectations.
Similar cars have been selling for similar money all
year long.
Whither the Tri-Five?
Predicting the future is always an opportunity to look
like a fool later, but if we make a comparison to another
iconic collector car that appeals to a slightly older
audience, maybe the crystal ball will uncloud a bit.
Prices for traditional 1932–34 Ford hot rods first
created by the Greatest Generation have been dropping.
It’s not uncommon to find those trading hands
under $20,000 these days, though top examples from
famous builders still command big money.
More than 120 such cars have appeared at auction
so far in 2019, so again there’s a lot of volume in the
market. The same phenomenon is also happening
with other models from the 1930s and ’40s. How many
people are hunting for a 1940 sedan today?
The hard fact is this: As people who remember
any particular car in its first incarnation age out of
the car-collecting business, the supply of restored or
maintained cars will mostly hold steady, but the market
for those cars will shrink. That will bring prices
down, especially on Condition #2 and lower examples.
The good news
is that the Tri-Five
(and the ’32 Ford)
will always remain
collectible, and
a #1 example of
any body style will
always bring top
money; even from
those born long
after the car was
made. Some things,
it seems, really are
timeless. A
(Introductory
description
courtesy of BarrettJackson.)
September–October 2019 55
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
2-door hard top
Lot 827, VIN VC57L1600838
Condition: 2
Sold at $68,200
ACC# 6891091
Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, AZ,
01/12/19
Engine # location: Block
stamping at pad on front
passenger’s side
Alternatives: 1955–56 Ford
Fairlane, 1954–58 Buick
Century, 1955–57 Pontiac
Chieftain
ACC Investment Grade: C
Comps
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
2-door hard top
Lot 5102, VIN A57B249017
Condition: 3+
Sold at $38,500
RM Auctions, Auburn, IN,
05/29/19
ACC# 6902532
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
convertible
Lot 6077, VIN VC57S110909
Condition: 2+
Sold at $84,150
RM Auctions, Auburn, IN,
05/29/19
ACC# 6902515
Page 54
FOMOCO PROFILE
1965 FORD GALAXIE 500 CAMMER
Pricing a Yellow Unicorn
Courtesy of Bonhams
How do
you value a
car with an
M-code VIN,
a non-original
motor, scant
documentation
and new paint
and interior?
VIN: 5F66M100016
by John Boyle
• 427-ci SOHC M-code V8
• Dual Holley 4-barrel carburetors
• 657 hp at 6,000 rpm
• 4-speed manual transmission
• Factory experimental car
ACC Analysis This car, Lot 180, sold for
$112,000, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at Bonhams’ Greenwich Concours d’Elegance
auction in Greenwich, CT, on June 2, 2019.
While looking like any of the other 157,283 Galaxie
500 2-door hard tops built in 1965, this car is reportedly
one of just a few built, and is likely the sole survivor.
Why? Because it has the mighty M-code SOHC
“Cammer” engine.
On the cam
In 1965, Ford’s “FE” big-block 427 was already
well known. Introduced in 1963, it quickly dominated
NASCAR circuits. However, facing MOPAR’s new 426
Hemi, Ford looked to improve the side-oiler.
Their answer: adapting the big block to a high-rev-
ving, two-valve, single-overhead-cam configuration.
Cost and development-time considerations meant a
roller chain-cam drive was favored over geared units.
The six-foot-long timing chain rotated a camshaft atop
each head, which featured hemispherical combustion
chambers.
The 90-day development effort paid off: With a
single-barrel carb, the engine produced 616 hp at
7,000 rpm while producing 515 ft-lb of torque. Dual
4-barrels increased those numbers to 657 hp and
56 AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 55
Compared to the
cost of building
a tribute, this
M-code car was
deservedly well
sold. ... Bonhams
sold an engine at
this auction for
$38k; others have
sold in the $50k
range, meaning
you could build
a nice tribute for
$60k–$90k.
575 ft-lb. Ford planned to homologate the engine for
NASCAR use. NASCAR promptly banned it.
No one knows how many Cammers were built, but
estimates range from a few hundred to 2,000. Today
the heads and intakes are produced by aftermarket
firms. Most engines fell into the hands of top drag racers,
where they found success.
A VIN and a story
The company tested these engines in a number
of ’64–66 Galaxies, and serious consideration was
given to making it an option in ’65 — indeed, the shop
manual for the year lists it as an available engine.
Ford announced the engine option in a 1966 news
release, but no production cars were ever built.
The primary documentation of this car’s special
status is its VIN number. The “F” shows it was built in
Dearborn — presumably in Ford’s engineering facility.
The “M” fifth digit identifies the engine as a Cammer.
Bonhams’ catalog presents the story in great detail:
After initial testing, this Galaxie was reportedly sent
to the experimental Ford shop at Watkins Glen, NY,
where one of the employees, a “Mr. Henderson,” acquired
it and took it home. After he drove it for a few
years, it ended up in a field on the family farm.
About this time, its engine was removed by
Henderson’s son, who replaced it with a common 390
and used it for racing. After Mr. Henderson died in
1980, the car passed to his daughter, who kept it hidden
away. When she died in 1998, another brother got
the car, which led to it being restored. Bonhams said
“forensic research” determined the car’s original
color and interior trim.
Along the way, the original data plate went missing
and there is scant documentation on the car’s time at
Ford or how it managed to escape the crusher — the
usual fate of test cars.
So what we have is a car with a non-original motor,
little documentation and with new paint and interior.
The car fell well short of its pre-sale estimate of
$300k–$400k.
The sum of its parts
No other factory cammers are known to exist. The
best-documented cars were a pair of 1966 mules,
September–October 2019 57
which were well known in period and appeared in a
few magazines. One was driven by a Ford special-vehicle
exec, the other was loaned to astronaut “Gordo”
Cooper. So what is this car worth?
In the realm of “one-of-one” Fords, the closest ex-
ample is the ’67 Shelby GT500 “Super Snake,” which
sold for $2.2 million in January (ACC# 6896510). But
a Galaxie, even with a rare engine, is no Shelby.
Trying to compare apples to apples (so excluding
various Pony cars and Corvettes) in terms of body style/
size, ’66–71 mid-size Hemi Mopars, some of which have
low production numbers, are a good match. They sell
in the $80k–$200k price range. Likewise, the 99 ’69
Yenko Chevelles are powerful and rare, with a median
value of $250k. These prices suggest Bonhams’ estimate
wasn’t necessarily out of line, but this car’s originality
and documentation issues held it back.
Compared to the cost of building a tribute, this
M-code car was deservedly well sold. The same collection
sold a nice ’66 7-Litre 428 “Q-code” Galaxie
for $22,400 and an “R-code” 427/425 car for $32,480.
They, or any ’65 Galaxie with a price-guide estimate
of $20k–$30k, could be fitted with a period SOHC
mill. Bonhams sold an engine at this auction for $38k;
others have sold in the $50k range, meaning you could
build a nice tribute for $60k–$90k.
With its lack of known history and originality is-
sues, this car was appropriately sold, and as a unique
bit of Ford history, well bought. But until a better
documented car comes to market, the ultimate value of
a factory street Cammer will remain a mystery. A
(Introductory description courtesy of Bonhams.)
1966 Ford Galaxie 500
R-code 2-dr hard top
Lot 580, VIN: 6P66R11496
Condition: 2+
Not sold at $57,500
Auctions America by RM ,
Carlisle, PA, 4/30/2011
ACC# 177821
DETAILING
Years produced: 1964–66
(test mules only)
Number produced: Unknown
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $110,000
(this car)
Tune-up/major service:
$300 (estimated)
VIN location: Left inner
fender/data tag in driver’s
door jamb
Engine # location: Block
located at left rear just
above oil pan
Alternatives: 1969 Chevrolet
Chevelle 427 COPO,
1966–67 Dodge Hemi
Coronet/Charger, 1966–67
Plymouth Hemi Belvedere/
Satellite
ACC Investment Grade: C
Comps
1966 Ford Galaxie 500
7-Litre convertible
Lot ST0095.4, VIN:
6J63Q146451
Condition: 1Sold
at $90,000
GAA, Greensboro, NC,
2/28/2019
ACC# 6897283
1964 Ford Galaxie 500
Factory Lightweight
Lot F174, VIN: 4A66R145466
Condition: 2Sold
at $126,500
Mecum, Indianapolis, IN,
5/15/2018
ACC# 6869973
Page 56
MOPAR PROFILE
1969 PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA MOD TOP
Flower Power
Courtesy of Mecum Auctions
Was this rare
Plymouth so
special and
so rare that it
warranted a
lunar-landing
sale price?
VIN: BH23P9B141277
by Dale Novak
• Sold new at Goddard Motors Inc. in Jennings,
MO
• Rare Mod Top vinyl roof covering and interior,
one of 937 produced
• Previously used as a dealer demonstrator, Y13 on
fender tag
• 340/275-hp V8 engine
• 4-barrel carburetor
• Dual exhaust with chrome tips
• TorqueFlite automatic transmission
• A53 Formula S Package
• Floral bucket seats with center console
• Factory air conditioning and heat
• Copy of original window sticker
• From the Steven Juliano Collection
ACC Analysis This car, Lot F133, sold for
$440,000, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at Mecum’s sale in Indianapolis, IN, on May 17,
2019.
By the late 1960s, pop-culture television was
full of flower power television shows such as “The
Mod Squad” and “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In.”
Celebrities smoked cigarettes and donned slick black
suits or crazy colorful psychedelic outfits.
Chrysler executives, along with their ad agency
(think “Mad Men”), decided to try and make hay while
the sun was shining. Their answer was a series of “Mod
Top” cars that would be blessed (or cursed) upon more
than a few of the Dodge or Plymouth models.
The tops and interiors looked like they could have
been stolen right out of Jo Anne Worley’s “Laugh-In”
wardrobe (look it up, you’ll see — put on sunglasses
first). Some enthusiasts call them shower-curtain tops.
No matter how you define it, the cars were anything
but subtle and about as masculine as a dude wearing
mascara.
Isn’t that a typo?
My immediate instinct on this car was that it sold
for $44,000 — not $440,000. I assumed Mecum had
made a mistake in the published results. Easy error.
Simple fix. Nope, the price was right.
Was it so special and so rare that it warranted a
lunar-landing sale price? Mopar forums were on
fire with discussions about the final sale price. One
Page 57
DETAILING
Years produced: 1969, 1970
(Mod Top)
Original list price: $2,813
(base)
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $38,500
Number produced: 937 (1969
Mod Top)
Tune-up/major service: $200
VIN location: Plate on dash,
driver’s side
Engine # location: Machined
face on front of block,
partial VIN on pan rail
Alternatives: 1969 Plymouth
Satellite Mod Top, 1969
Dodge Dart Swinger 340
Mod Top, 1969 Plymouth
Super Bee Mod Top
ACC Investment Grade: C
Comps
commenter said he was told there were some gold
bars hidden away in the chassis. Another suggested
the buyer might have spent too much time listening to
Cheech and Chong albums.
While our subject car is certainly interesting, and
somewhat rare, it really isn’t much more than that. It’s
cool in a very 1960s retro way. I get the vibe the car
projects and how that part of our American culture
is important to our history. Wild, free, Woodstock,
Hendrix, Dylan, etc. But as a collectible car — one
that sold for $440,000, mind you — I just can’t connect
the bright, colorful dots.
Hooking the big fish
Auctions, unlike any other sales venue, can oc-
casionally send a sale price through the roof. Some
sellers get lucky when two determined “big fish”
bidders decide to go at it, each diligently and aggressively
determined not to lose — at nearly any cost.
For them, it becomes more about winning than buying
something.
“The auction estimate of $50k–$70k was a bit
aggressive, but this car had a ton of originality, plus
very high option content, including factory air conditioning,”
said Mecum’s John Kraman. “It simply came
down to two serious collectors who wanted what might
very well be the finest Mod Top in existence. This sale
was certainly one of the best bidder battles in Mecum
Auctions’ long history!”
I also spoke with Julie Moore, who is the curator
of the Mod Top registry. She was well versed in our
subject car and had seen it at the Mopar Nationals in
1996. She did relay to me that the car was somewhat
rare, but not terribly so. She stated that there are currently
about 20 1969 Barracudas in the registry with
the 340 engine (out of 100 registered). She did suggest
that our subject car was likely more desirable given
its originality, low miles and connection to the seller.
And, get this — back in 2006, it failed to sell on eBay
Motors with a high bid of $19,500.
She also commented, “In my experience over the
20-plus years of curating the Mod Top Registry, the
Mod Tops don’t really sell for much more than a nonMod
Top car. It’s a love ’em or hate ’em car — and
judging from the small buyer’s market, most hate
’em. Who wants a car with a shower-curtain top and
interior?”
Rare twice over
As reported, this was a highly original example with
original factory paint, interior and drivetrain, and
with low documented miles. Add to that the scarcity of
a 1969 Mod Top 340 Barracuda and the fact that it’s
all-original and you get rare on top of rare.
The fact that it came from the Steven Juliano
Collection is icing on the cake. Cars from his collection
were the pick-of-the-litter examples. The fact
that he chose this car to add to his collection speaks
volumes to its quality.
From a condition standpoint, the car is very nice,
but in an original way. That means we expect to see
wear and deterioration that coincides with the age of
the car. If I were in the field reporting on the car, I’d
likely consider it a good #3 example given the photos
presented.
Time and time again, I’ve seen an all-original im-
portant car sell for #1 trailer-queen money, so it’s no
surprise here that the car sparked a bunch of interest
on the auction block.
A fish out of water
Will this sale give the Mod Top market a bump?
Perhaps, but if it does, it will be very short lived.
To say this sale result of $440,000 was wildly over-
the-top wouldn’t be a strong enough statement. For all
you guys out there with a cool, groovy, shower-curtain
Mod Top 340 Barracuda squirreled away in your
garage, let’s hope you can find the underbidder here.
Do you dig it? Far out, dude. That’s a lot of dough.
Translation: Great car, but amazingly, stupendously
well sold. A
(Introductory description courtesy of Mecum
Auctions.)
September–October 2019
March–April 2019
59
1969 Plymouth Barracuda
2-door hard top
Lot FR0103, VIN:
BH29F9B439507
Condition: 2Sold
at $20,330
GAA, Greensboro, NC,
7/28/2017
ACC# 6841884
1969 Plymouth Barracuda
Mod Top 2-door hard top
Lot 609, VIN: BH23F9B140342
Condition: 2+
Not sold at $22,682
Collector Car Productions,
Toronto, ON, CAN, 4/6/2014
ACC# 243324
1969 Plymouth Barracuda
Mod Top 2-door hard top
Lot F121, VIN: BH23F9B144365
Condition: 3+
Not sold at $16,500
Mecum Auctions, Kansas City,
MO, 12/4/2009
ACC# 1676753
Page 58
HOT ROD & CUSTOM PROFILE
1940 FORD DELUXE COUPE
Pre-War Glamour
Courtesy of Barrett-Jackson
The buyer
got a
professionally
prepared and
maintained
light custom
coupe. Many
buyers have
paid far more
and taken
home much
less
60 AmericanCarCollector.com
VIN: 54531703
by Jeff Zurschmeide
• Restored in original Showroom Green
• 221-ci flathead engine
• Offenhauser aluminum heads
• 3-speed manual
• Corduroy seat covers
• From the Vault Portfolio
ACC Analysis This car, Lot 721.1, sold for
$46,200, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at the Barrett-Jackson Northeast 2019 auction,
held June 29, 2019, in Uncasville, CT.
1940 was the final year of a generation of Fords
that began in 1937. The 1941 Fords were completely
redesigned, with two inches more wheelbase, and
were about six inches longer overall.
It’s generally agreed that the restyle ruined the
glamorous lines of the 1939 and 1940 Fords. The 1941
design carried on through the war to the end of the
1948 model year, making the 1940 coupe the last and
best pre-war Ford of its kind.
Rapid change
Competition with Chevrolet was fierce in the late
1930s. Ford made significant styling and mechanical
updates to its passenger-car line every year. Starting
with the 1937 model year, Ford offered two versions of
its flathead V8 engine. Buyers could choose a 136-ci
engine with 60 horsepower and 94 foot-pounds of
torque, or a larger 221-ci design with 85 horsepower
and an impressive 153 ft-lb of torque.
Fords of this generation started with mechanical
brakes all around. Ford upgraded to Lockheed
hydraulic brakes in 1939. A 3-speed transmission was
standard, and beginning in 1940, the shifter moved
from the floor to the steering column.
This era was also significant for rapid develop-
ments in styling. These were the first Fords to have
an all-steel roof, the headlights were moved out to the
fenders, and 1940 was the first year for sealed-beam
headlights.
Through the latter 1930s, Standard trim models
carried the previous year’s DeLuxe styling. That was a
canny marketing move to get status-conscious DeLuxe
buyers to invest in a new car every year. The 1940
DeLuxe was the final and most beautiful expression of
designer Eugene Gregorie’s vision.
Subtle custom
Our subject car came from the Vault Portfolio — a
collection of top-quality restorations, customs and hot
rods. The car is finished in an original color called
Showroom Green, although it presents more as a blue.
As is typical of Vault Portfolio cars, this Ford has
been very respectfully customized. It’s easy to imagine
that this is how this car would have been modified in
the immediate post-war period.
That means there’s no cacophony of chrome shrouding
an LS-series engine when you look under the hood.
Page 59
The correct 85-horse flathead
engine and column-shifted 3-speed
transmission are in place. Custom
engine work includes an extra
carburetor and period-correct
Offenhauser heads. A modern battery
is the only anachronistic note
in the engine bay.
The sale photos did not include
interior shots, but the description
notes that the original corduroy
upholstery has been restored. A
few options are visible from a distance,
including gravel-deflecting
winglets on the bumper ends, a
front bumper guard, fog lights and
whitewall tires. All were factory
options in 1940.
Finally, a little rake has been
added to the car by dropping the
front end. Thank the hot-rod gods
that no one has been so tasteless as to install modern
wheels. Proper stamped steel wheels, Ford DeLuxe
hubcaps, whitewalls and beauty rings complete the
look. This is a car you could take to any show on
Earth and receive accolades.
A very good buy
In the past year, 38 Ford Standard and DeLuxe
coupes from 1938 to ’40 have crossed the block.
Prices have ranged from $19,250 (ACC# 6899520) to
$110,000 (ACC# 6894927), but what is notable is the
sell-through rate.
Of those 38 cars, 32 have sold at every price point
between the extremes. That tells us that there’s plenty
of action in the market, and that sellers are generally
taking the bids they receive. This is the pattern of “get
out while you can” from a market with a declining
future, yet every one of those cars found a willing
buyer. That proves the strength and appeal of this
generation of Ford coupe, if not a rising market.
Against that backdrop, the buyer of this car got
a very good deal. Once a classic is updated with
Mustang II front suspension, tilt steering column
and a drivetrain swap, there’s usually no going back.
What’s more, that kind of custom is usually attractive
only to the person who built it.
While this car is technically a custom, it can appeal
to purists as well. With this purchase, the buyer got a
slice of hot-rod history, professionally prepared and
maintained. Many buyers have paid far more and
taken home much less.
The only surprise is that this car didn’t pull higher
bids. While the sale price is right in the fat part of
the bell curve, this stunning example was very well
bought.A
(Introductory description courtesy of Barrett-
Jackson.)
1940 Ford Custom DeLuxe
coupe
Lot 23, VIN: 185385827
Condition: 2Sold
at $43,956
ACC# 6869916
Silver Auctions, Spokane, WA,
5/16/2018
1940 Ford DeLuxe custom
coupe
Lot 121, VIN: 185611547
Condition: 2
Not sold at $35,100
ACC# 6874841
Silver Auctions, Spokane, WA,
7/14/2018
DETAILING
Years produced: 1940
Number produced: 27,919
(DeLuxe Coupe only)
Original list price: $721
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $41,800
Tune-up/major service: $200
VIN location: Left side frame
member near firewall
Engine # location: Top of the
bellhousing
Alternatives: 1937–42
Chevrolet Master Coupe,
1936–42 Hudson, 1939–40
Mercury Eight
ACC Investment Grade: C
Comps
1939 Ford Standard coupe
Lot ST0109, VIN: 186274529
Condition: 3
Sold at $29,960
GAA, Greensboro, NC,
3/01/2018
ACC# 6863586
The 1941 design carried on through the war to the end of the 1948 model year,
making the 1940 coupe the last and best pre-war Ford of its kind.
September–October 2019 61
Page 60
AMERICANA PROFILE
1971 CHEVROLET BEAUVILLE CUSTOM VAN
Pushin’ Too Hard
Maybe vans
are on their
way up, but I
wouldn’t bet
on it
VIN: GE261U231481
by John L. Stein
• 350-ci V8
• Automatic transmission
• Modest natural patina
• Custom bench seating
• Matching throw pillows
• Rear table
• Custom curtains
• Vintage window screens
• Roof racks with surfboards
• Removable side awning
• Antique picnic supplies
ACC Analysis This van, Lot 333, sold for
$17,050, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at the Barrett-Jackson Northeast auction in
Uncasville, CT, on June 28, 2019.
Released in late 1965, The Seeds’ song “Pushin’
Too Hard” seems just right for this 48-year-old Chevy
Beauville. The ’60s and ’70s were, after all, the zenith
of the van era, and among the song’s lyrics, “Well all
I want is to just be free/Live my life the way I wanna
62 AmericanCarCollector.com
be,” reflects perfectly the approach that young van
owners (myself included) had toward life.
Vans allowed you to roam wherever you wanted,
sleep or camp out at will, carry friends, motorcycles
and surfboards, and decorate with beanbag chairs
and carpeting. And with curtains, everything that happened
in a van stayed in the van!
Cruisin’ in style
The Chevy Van had a long run, starting with the
1964 G10 and continuing through three generations
to 1995, after which the Express nameplate took over.
The ’71 model sold at Barrett-Jackson is the first
of the third-gen models, and as such benefits from
all-new styling and construction, greater dynamic
capability thanks to independent front suspension,
front disc brakes, and more safety features.
This basic configuration continued for an amazing
25 years.
Courtesy of Barrett-Jackson
Page 61
What a body
Enter the B-J Beauville featured here. As a long-
wheelbase window van, it ranks reasonably high on the
desirability scale for vans of this period. So does the top
Beauville trim’s two-tone color combination — which
works pretty well in turquoise and white — and the
matching turquoise interior. The eminently rebuildable
and tunable GM V8 power is also a plus, especially
since this van already has a trailer hitch installed.
Thin in some places and down to the primer or even
bare metal in others, the paintwork is near perfect for
the patina crowd. But the absence of rust — including
in the rocker panels and atop the bumpers — in a
nearly half-century-old van offered on the East Coast
gives pause about its actual ownership history. Where
did it live, and is it really as solid as it looks?
Tryin’ too hard
What is evident is the seller’s effort to create a
“surfer look” for this lot, and the process was done on
a budget.
While the paintwork was carefully fettled, a dent in
the sliding side door went uncorrected. Up top, one of
the vintage longboards riding on budget surf racks is
missing its fin. Sketchy ride, brah! And the half-dozen
“period” window stickers are obviously new, i.e., not
at all from the 1970s.
Inside, the Surfer Joe theme continues with a dash-
board hula doll on the engine cover and a Hawaiian
puka-shell necklace hanging from the rear-view mirror.
The second-row bench seat is staged with a fuzzy
throw rug and a plaid pillow. A third, side-mounted
bench seat is also visible through one rear window.
Tilt-out side-door windows are a plus.
Further accoutrements configured to bolster the
leisure-time image include a cheapie-looking awning
in a mismatched color, cheapie chairs in a mismatched
color, a cheapie-looking “vintage” picnic set, more
pillows and a mismatched Home Depot-looking throw
rug.
The price we pay
As a longtime surfer, adventurer and vigorous
van fan, I feel the buyer waaay overpaid for this lot,
perhaps after being smitten with its fun-in-the-sun
persona. My first response after seeing the $17,050
sale price? Take $10k off the top and we’ll talk. Seven
thousand for a clean vintage van with some shortcom-
ings and evidence of the cheap road taken seems
plenty fair to me.
Maybe vans are on their way up, but I wouldn’t bet
on it.
Chevy Beauvilles are not in the American Car
Collector Pocket Price Guide, and my search of the
ACC Premium Auction Database online turned up just
a single ’75 Chevy delivery van — which sold for a
mere $432. NADA’s info is grim as well, with high retail
ranging from $2,850 for the ¾-ton long-wheelbase
G20 Beauville to $3,575 for the one-ton long-wheelbase
G30 Beauville. The ¼-ton long-wheelbase G10
Beauville landed in between at $2,875 high retail.
Stop pretending
I’m happy the buyer of this vintage van got what
he or she wanted, at the price they wanted to pay. I’m
also happy for the seller, because I surely don’t see
how they could have failed to make money on this
deal.
Had this one landed in my driveway, I’d ditch
the cheesy accouterments in a hurry, replace those
waterlogged old longboards with newer ones, throw
a couple of wetsuits, sleeping bags and a cookstove in
the back, stop pretending, and take a real surf trip.
At that moment, the price paid will cease to matter,
because life’s for living, waves are for riding, and
vans are for driving. And as Sammy Johns sang in the
famous “Chevy Van” song of 1973, “…that’s all right
with me.” A
(Introductory description courtesy of Barrett-
Jackson.)
Further accoutrements
configured to bolster
the leisure-time image
include a cheapie-looking
awning in a mismatched
color, cheapie chairs in
a mismatched color, a
cheapie-looking “vintage”
picnic set, more pillows
and a mismatched Home
Depot-looking throw rug.
DETAILING
Years produced: 1971–95
Number produced: 17,339
(1971 G10)
Original list price: $3,738
(G10 Beauville LWB)
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $8,800
Tune-up/major service:
$500–$600
VIN location: Plate at base of
windshield
Engine # location: On block
in front of right cylinder
head
Alternatives: 1971 Dodge
Ram van, 1971 Ford E-Series
Econoline, 1971 GMC
Vandura
ACC Investment Grade: D
Comps
1965 GMC van
Lot F117, VIN: G1001PE8853A
Condition: 3+
Sold at $17,050
Mecum Auctions, Kansas City,
MO, 12/1/2016
ACC# 6810595
1976 Dodge Tradesman van
Lot 1153, VIN: B21BE6X089844
Condition: 3+
Sold at $15,950
Leake Auctions, Dallas, TX,
11/18/2016
ACC# 6810467
1965 Ford Econoline van
Lot 718, VIN: E12TH629434
Condition: 3-
Not sold at $17,500
B&T Specialty Auto Auctions,
Reno, NV, 8/12/2012
ACC# 213481
September–October 2019 xx
63
Page 62
RACE PROFILE
1973 FORD MUSTANG TRANS AM
Track Tool at a Handy Price
Matt Lynch, courtesy of RM Auctions
A no-hit
vintage racer
for less than
50 Gs? Try
duplicating
that deal
VIN: 189871D
by Patrick Smith
• Highly modified 351-ci V8 built by Jack Roush
• Close-ratio 4-speed with Hurst shifter
• 4.11 locked rear end
• Originally sold unfinished to Ed Hinchliff, who
assembled the car to Kar-Kraft blueprints with the
help of former Kar-Kraft chassis engineers Lee
Dykstra and Mitch Marchi
• Campaigned in period; accompanied by SCCA
logbooks
ACC Analysis This car, Lot 5078, sold for
$49,500, including buyer’s
premium, at RM Sotheby’s auction in Auburn, IN, held
from May 29 to June 1, 2019.
The golden age of Trans Am fell between the years
1968 and 1972. Some die-hards say it ended in 1970,
citing the loss of Ford and Chrysler factory-sponsored
teams in 1971. Whichever year you choose, seeing
factory-style Pony cars battle it out wheel to wheel
made it a time like no other for American race fans.
After the mid 1970s, the SCCA changed the
direction of their Trans Am series, emulating an IMSA
GT race-car profile with a budget to match. Factory
sponsorship in racing affected SCCA racing early on,
with the 1969 competitors notably more professional
and faster compared to their 1966 brethren. By 1977,
if you wanted to watch new Mustangs and Camaros
compete fender to fender, IROC racing was the way
to go.
A mid-pack runner
Among SCCA buffs, Ed Hinchliff is well known. He
hailed from Ypsilanti, MI, and entered the Trans Am
series in 1968 running a Ford Mustang coupe as a
privateer.
Hinchliff was an engineer at Ford. That allowed
him an edge — he could run experimental parts, and
since it wasn’t a factory effort, Ford didn’t have to
worry about costly public-relations damage.
The 1968 Hinchliff/Ross Mustang ran a Tunnel Port
302, which meant unusually high revs and engines
grenading on tracks across America. After the bugs
were sorted out, the Mustang did well.
This valuable experience allowed Ford to get the
drop on Chevy for 1970, with the result being the
Follmer-Jones Trans Am championship. By 1970,
Hinchliff had access to Kar-Kraft, Bud Moore
Engineering and racing parts from his day job as a
Ford engineer.
64 AmericanCarCollector.com
Page 63
DETAILING
Years produced: 1971
Number produced: Two
Original list price: N/A
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $49,500 (this
car)
Tune-up/major service:
$300 (estimated)
VIN location: Driver’s side
door A-pillar
Hinchliff also ran a blue Trans Am Mustang that
season. It was quite successful right up to when he
sold it at the end of 1972. Then Hinchliff picked up
one of two 1971 Mustang body-in-white cars from Bud
Moore Engineering — this car. He finished the build
just in time for the 1977 season.
Hinchliff took on Corvettes and Porsches, doing
the best he could. His Mustang was reliable, always
finished and never crashed. There was just one roof
chop to stay competitive. The SCCA ruled it illegal,
so it had to be put back to original. Unfortunately,
however, the car remained a mid-pack runner. The
SCCA rule updates favored much lighter cars with
inherent structural rigidity and high-revving engines
over large V8s.
East or west?
There are two active schools of retro Trans Am
racing: The West Coast boys are represented by
Historical Trans Am (HTA), and they’re into survivor
period race cars, preferably with original team colors
and period equipment, if not the original hardware.
They don’t run as fast, but the cars are closer to 1970s
Trans Am cars.
The East Coast boys usually run in the Sportscar
Vintage Race Association (SVRA) and favor a vintage
appearance with modern or notably upgraded
drivetrain and suspension. The drivers make the car
as competitive as possible.
This car was bought cheap enough to go either way.
Racing it in SVRA would hurt the value in the short
term, but winning with modern hardware is a thrill.
Putting it back to its original blue, in combination
with the race log history and pallet of vintage parts,
might be smart for the new owner. The vintage-race
community is tightly knit, and there would be a lot of
support for running it as a period-correct racer.
A rare deal
Before valuing this car, you have to toss everything
you’ve learned about classic cars out the window.
What matters with vintage racers is provenance,
victories with known drivers and eligibility status for
vintage racing. A crash-free body and original parts
are just nice bonuses.
Was this a foolish or wise buy? Well, not many of the
1970s American Trans Am race cars are around. Many
were changed to IMSA GTO spec to stay competitive.
Pre-1977 Trans Am race cars are scarce and expensive
when they come up for sale. For example, a leftover
1970 Trans Am Boss 302 from BME finished to 1971
specs sold for $200,000 at RM Sotheby’s January 2015
venue in Phoenix (ACC# 261979). It had no period
racing history, but was a real-deal body-in-white car
and qualifies for vintage racing.
Once you gather all the pieces — factory car, name
driver and race history — value adds up fast. Most of
What matters with vintage racers is
provenance, victories with known drivers
and eligibility status for vintage racing.
A crash-free body and original parts are
just nice bonuses.
the 427 Corvettes that raced with Hinchliff back then
are gone. A replica 1968 Penske Camaro Trans Am
car sold for $71,500, but it isn’t eligible for vintage
racing. Any of the winning Porsches are huge money if
you can shake one loose from a collector. The Hurley
Haywood Porsche IMSA GT race car (Lot 128) sold
for $550,000 at RM Sotheby’s 2013 Monterey venue.
Compare these figures to our subject car and it starts
looking good at the price paid.
A no-hit vintage race-eligible factory body-in-white
car with period parts for less than 50 big ones? Try
duplicating that deal. I’d say the buyer did well. Get
that car ready and go racing. A
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Auctions.)
Engine # location: N/A
Alternatives: 1969 Chevrolet
Camaro Trans Am, 1970
AMC Javelin Trans Am,
1970 Ford Mustang Boss
302
ACC Investment Grade: B
Comps
1967 Shelby Mustang
Trans Am
Lot 3116, VIN: 7R01K218307
Condition: 1-
Not sold at $190,000
Auctions America, Burbank,
CA, 8/1/2014
ACC# 244563
1966 Ford Mustang
Trans Am
Lot S692, VIN: 6F07K319819
Condition: 2
Sold at $132,000
Russo and Steele, Scottsdale,
AZ, 1/20/2013
ACC# 214976
1977 Chevrolet Camaro
IROC
Lot S99, VIN: BP7720IROC14
Condition: 3+
Not sold at $37,500
Mecum Auctions, Belvidere, IL,
5/23/2007
ACC# 45402
September–October 2019 65
Page 64
TRUCK PROFILE
1970 DODGE D100 PICKUP
A Chevy Alternative
It’s not a C10
or even an
F-100, but it
looks great.
Why would
anyone sleep
on a Dodge?
VIN: D11AE0N108206
by Kevin Whipps
• Dodge D100 Sweptline with wood bed floor
• Magnum 360-ci V8
• Automatic transmission
• Two-tone silver paint
• 20-inch wheels
• Air conditioning
• Power steering and brakes
• Four-wheel disc brakes
• Independent front suspension
• Stereo
• Backup camera
ACC Analysis This truck, Lot 347.1, sold for
$27,500, including buyer’s pre-
mium, at Barrett-Jackson’s Northeast 2019 auction in
Uncasville, CT, on June 28, 2019.
While comparable Chevys and Fords go for $30k and
much higher, this truck came out as a virtual steal.
The missing pickup truck
You might say that Dodge just played the long game
wrong. They introduced the second generation of
Dodge D100s in 1965, two years before Chevy and
Ford would introduce their models.
In Dodge’s take on what consumers of the time
wanted, that meant a very square, capable truck. But
when the 1967 C10 and F-100 were introduced, the
D100 all of a sudden looked antiquated in comparison.
It was what a truck used to look like. That put Dodge
66 AmericanCarCollector.com
on the run.
In 1968, Dodge decided to make some changes,
likely in response to the market. They changed the
grille to look more modern and started adding some
more “luxurious” features — such as carpet. New
trim levels, including Adventurer, Adventurer Sport
and Adventurer SE, came with more choices as well.
Cleaner door-panel trim, woodgrain dashboards and
even color-keyed seat belts were all available. By
then, however, the competition was far more appealing.
Dodge just made the move too late.
Breaking the mold
That brings up the obvious question: What makes
these trucks desirable today? For the most part,
they’re still not. A comparable C10 or F-100 will
Courtesy of Barrett-Jackson
Page 65
always fetch more money, and there are a lot of those
on the market to choose from. Interestingly enough,
though, the sheer number of GM and Ford trucks out
there is part of the reason why Dodges are popular
with some buyers.
D100s are cheap. Unrestored models are out there
for under $5,000 all day long. And when they’re completed,
the resulting truck can be had for under $30k,
which can still generate a profit for the builder. At that
price, it’s appealing for the buyer, too.
On top of that, Dodge trucks are just different.
Anyone can go to their local car show and see a halfdozen
C10s. At that same show, a Dodge stands out
from the crowd.
Plus, through today’s lens, the D-series is not a
bad-looking truck. The truck is very clearly boxy,
and that look is amplified (for the better) when it’s
modified.
In this case, that’s part of the appeal. Because it’s a
Dodge, and because it’s modified, and because it has a
great engine, it’s a good buy. The new owner can pull
up to that same local car show next time and get a ton
of looks and the obvious question: “But what is it?”
Standing out can be a good thing
We don’t know what the original builder’s intent was,
but it’s safe to hazard a few guesses. As a custom-truck
builder, the motivation may have been simple: Make it
cool. But if it was for resale, then modifying the truck
past stock would give it a higher profile.
Thing is, it’s not heavily modified in comparison
with other custom trucks. It doesn’t lay the frame on
the ground, nor does it have airbags. The interior is
clean and upgraded, but it’s not gaudy. The paint is
simple. It’s a nicely restored truck with a few mods —
some that could be easily removed if desired.
The other tricks, such as the independent front
suspension, are an upgrade made for better handling
and, arguably, safety. That’s probably the kicker with
this particular truck. Its modifications give it an edge
compared to the competition, but the fact that it’s
not so modified that it could appear in a movie with
“Fast” or “Furious” in the title means that it’s still
manageable for the average consumer.
The down low
Bottom line: Is this a good deal? Fans of these
trucks tend to want the earlier years, pre-1960. Those
can bring in some fairly decent numbers, some of
which are climbing into the $50k–$70k range.
But this particular generation of trucks just isn’t
that hot. Most of them stick around the $20,000 mark
at sale time and don’t go much higher. So on the one
hand, the seller here made out pretty well, although
one has to consider how much was spent on modifications.
But on the other hand, the buyer got an awful lot
of truck for $30k. And when compared to the values of
C10s and F-100s done to the same level, it was a really
good deal. A
(Introductory description courtesy of Barrett-
Jackson.)
1968 Dodge D100 pickup
Lot 1161, VIN: 1161853738
Condition: 3+
Sold at $17,600
1972 Chevrolet C10
Cheyenne Super Pickup
Lot 432, VIN: CCE142B142489
Condition: 3
Sold at $36,300
ACC# 6891042
DETAILING
Years produced: 1965–71
Number produced: 15,978
(1970, 114-inch wheelbase)
Original list price: $2,690
(base)
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $21,450
Tune-up / major service:
$200 (estimated)
VIN location: Tag on driver’s
side door jamb
Engine # location: Driver’s
side of the block, underneath
the cylinder head
Alternatives: 1967–72
Ford F-series, 1967–72
Chevrolet C-series, 1969–75
International D-series
ACC Investment Grade: C
Comps
Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale, AZ,
1/12/2019
Leake, Dallas, TX, 04/21/2017
ACC# 6835268
1970 Ford F-100 pickup
Lot S629, VIN: F10YRH14960
Condition: 2
Sold at $30,800
Russo and Steele, Scottsdale,
AZ, 1/18/2017
ACC# 6816968
September–October 2019 67
Page 66
MARKET OVERVIEW
Are Broncos Still the Hottest Utility
in the Market?
Prices are still climbing, but the trail is leveling off
That was the first $100k auction sale of a Bronco
tracked by the ACC Premium Auction Database.
It was just the first. Since that sale, buyers have
spent six figures acquiring these utilities 16 different
times. That’s all-in with buyer’s premium.
Heads up: This isn’t to pinpoint which Broncos
are the most valuable, but rather to show just how
much this model has blown up in the market and to
see if there are any signs of lessening acceleration or
outright cooling off.
From 2016 to 2017, the median Bronco price
1966 Ford Bronco roadster, Mecum Monterey 2018 — Restored back to stock,
and sold at $110,000
by Chad Tyson
figures or more and failing to sell).
It’s like when man ran under a four-minute mile. Nobody did it until Roger
I
Bannister in 1954 — hitting 3:59.4. (I’m talking officially, at least, although I’m sure
tigers, wolves, etc. might have spurred folks to high speeds over long distances, but
nobody was around with a stopwatch.) Since, there have been at least 1,569 athletes
who have broken that barrier according to Track and Field News and their Sub-4
Alphabetic Register.
When the dam breaks, there’s no telling where things will end up, but we can see
where they’re headed.
Ford Broncos have led the charge for vintage utility/SUVs up the value scale for
the past couple of years. We’ve tracked hundreds of them over the years — including
319 sold-at-auction, first-gen Broncos from start of 2016 through June 2019. Back at
Mecum’s 2016 Indianapolis sale, a buyer paid $110,000 for a 1971 wagon customized
within an inch of its existence. I’m talking about a 2015 5.0-L Coyote V8, Dana 31s
up front and out back, custom this, custom that, giant tires on oversized wheels in
cut wheelwells. Exactly the kind of thing to blow the top off a simmering sector.
BEST BUYS
1968 Shelby GT500 fastback,
$108,000—Twin Cities
Auctions, MN, p. 112
68 AmericanCarCollector.com
1969 Ford Torino GT 2-dr hard
top, $30,800—Leake, OK, p. 100
1953 Buick Skylark convertible,
$77,000—Barrett-Jackson, CT,
p. 74
1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429
fastback, $161,280—Bonhams,
CT, p. 124
1987 Ford Mustang ASC
McLaren convertible, $11,000—
Leake, OK, p. 100
t’s a familiar setup in the collector-car world: One sale of a vehicle at auction
sparks a run-up on a particular model over the ensuing months and years. I
recall the first $100k Volkswagen Transporter at auction. Barrett-Jackson sold
it at their 2010 Las Vegas sale for an even $110k. Since September 2010, we’ve
tracked 61 Transporters selling for over $100k (with 22 of them bid to six
increased by 13%. For 2017 to 2018, it was 22%. But
from 2018 to 2019, the increase dropped to 7%. So, still
moving up, but at a slower pace. The average prices of
first-gen Broncos followed a similar pattern: up, way up,
then up again (2%, 31%, 32%, respectively).
There’s likely a good reason for the slowing pace
— the market might be developing a ceiling.
The first half of 2019 featured the top five highest-
selling Broncos at auction — ever — including the
top-dog 1969 custom Bronco that Barrett-Jackson sold
in Uncasville, CT, in June for $203.5k. Yeah, $200k for
a Bronco. It’s not an extreme outlier, either, as Mecum
also sold a 1971 customized Bronco for $198k and
an Icon Bronco for $192,500 at their April Houston
sale. The next two come in around $145k, both sold by
Barrett-Jackson at this year’s Scottsdale auction.
Sure, the aggregate fails to consider specific
details, but we’re talking about a mass-produced utility
vehicle. Stock is going to be stock, with condition
being the major variable outside of optional equipment,
and the aftermarket impact will be confined
mostly to common parts swaps and body mods (cut
fenders, roll pans, etc.). I’m also less concerned about
individual model-year values. Sure, the earlier ones
will be worth a bit more, but the list of $100k Broncos
features a model from nearly every year of production
(1976 and 1977 were the only years left out).
Broncos are firmly established atop the vintage-
SUV market, both in terms of price and quantity.
They’ll plateau and decline eventually, but unless there
is larger economic pressure (such as a recession or
war), I don’t see this party ending anytime soon. A
Page 68
MARKET OVERVIEW
TOP 10
SALES IN THIS ISSUE
$1,980,000—Mecum
Auctions, IN, p. 92
1
2
hard top, $440,000—Mecum
Auctions, IN, p. 91
Transit System show-car 2-dr
hard top, $341,000—Mecum
Auctions, IN, p. 92
3
4
show-car 2-dr hard top,
$264,000—Mecum Auctions,
IN, p. 93
System show-car 2-dr hard
top, $236,500—Mecum
Auctions, IN, p. 93
Bonhams, CT, p. 124
5
6
7
1969 Ford Mustang Boss
429 fastback, $126,500—
Barrett-Jackson, CT, p. 80
$112,000—Bonhams, CT,
p. 123
8
9
10
1969 Dodge Dart
Swinger concept car
2-dr hard top, $110,000—
Mecum Auctions, IN, p. 92
70 AmericanCarCollector.com
1965 Ford Galaxie
500 2-dr hard top,
1970 Ford Mustang Boss
429 fastback, $161,280—
1971 Plymouth Road
Runner Rapid Transit
1970 Plymouth Duster
Rapid Transit System
1970 Plymouth Hemi
Road Runner Rapid
1969 Plymouth Barracuda
Formula S Mod Top 2-dr
1966 Shelby Cobra 427
roadster, $2,420,000—
Mecum Auctions, IN, p. 89
1970 Plymouth Hemi
’Cuda convertible,
BUY IT NOW
WHAT TO PURCHASE IN TODAY’S MARKET — AND WHY
1987–88 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe
• 5-speed cars put out 190 hp and
topped out at 143 mph
• A luxury version of the Mustang
SVO
• Motor Trend’s 1987 Car of the Year
The Turbo coupe actually came out as a
1983-model-year car, but in 1987 received
streamlined, exclusive bodywork that brings
the whole package up — making it one of
the better-looking ’80s cars. Flush headlights
and quarter windows smoothed out the exterior,
and the grille’s elimination (replaced
by functional hood scoops leading to the
intercooler) perked up the front end.
Turbocharged 4-cylinders are the rage today for manufacturers hunting for better fuel economy and
enough power. They didn’t start just 10 years ago, however. Ford played around with turbocharging 4-cylinders
starting in the early 1980s and improved as they went along. The first Turbo coupe in 1983 put out 142
ponies.
The last two sales tracked by the ACC Premium Auction Database were both sold at $7,700; one by
Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale this year and the other by Worldwide at their 2018 Texas Classic auction. The
auction sale prior to those? GAA in their March 2017 auction sold one for $28,483. Our reporters there didn’t
cover it, but catalog copy said it had only 400 miles, came with complete documentation, and was a oneowner
car from a bigger collection they were selling at that time. The sale preceding that record holder was
for $5,500 at Mecum’s 2017 Kissimmee sale.
When you find one, it’ll probably be for $5k–$10k — unless it’s got a reason not to be, such as über-low
mileage, or it’s a complete basket case. Absolutely spring for the manual over automatic, as the slushbox was
detuned by some 40 horsepower for the sake of the transmission’s longevity.
— Chad Tyson
$100m
$150m
$200m
$250m
$300m
$350m
$400m
$50m
$0
January
2018
2019
0%
February
2018
2019
+14%
March
2018
2019
-9%
April
2018
2019
-8%
-12%
May
2018
2019
-29%
June
2018
2019
SIX-MONTH YEAR-TO-YEAR COMPARISON
$343.5m
Combined Overall
Auction Totals
$341.8m
Condition Ratings
ACC’s 1–6 scale for describing
vehicles in Market Reports
1
2
$126.5m
$117.8m
$110.7m
$106.6m
$124.7m
$99.2m
$91m
$110m
$61.7m
$86.4m
3
4
5
6
Perfect: National
show standard
Excellent: Club
show-worthy, some
small flaws
Average: Daily driver
in decent condition
Meh: Still a driver,
with some visible flaws
Questionable:
A problem-plagued
beast that somehow
manages to run
Lost cause:
Salvageable for parts
Page 70
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
An iconic 1953 Buick Skylark ragtop traded hands for a $77k bargain price
Northeast 2019
Barrett-Jackson
Uncasville, CT
June 26–29, 2019
Auctioneers: Mast
Auctioneers; Joseph Mast,
lead auctioneer
Automotive lots sold/
offered: 548/548
Sales rate: 100%
Sales total: $23,249,480
High sale: 2019
Chevrolet Corvette Z06
coupe sold for charity at
$2,700,000; non-charity
American high sale:
2019 Chevrolet Corvette
Yenko/SC Stage II convertible,
sold at $258,500
Buyer’s premium:
10%, included in sold
prices
Restored in 2012 to near-concours standard — 1953 Buick Skylark convertible, sold at $77,000
Report and photos by Adam Blumenthal
Market opinions in italics
• High-sale $2.7m Corvette is most expensive sale ever at
Barrett-Jackson’s Northeast sale
• Second straight year of 100% sell-through rate
• 282 of 548 (51.46%) lots were model year 1976 or newer
M
ohegan Sun in scenic southeastern Connecticut once again played host to
Barrett-Jackson’s Northeast auction, its fourth at the popular casino and
resort. The setup seems to be working, as it was nearly identical to last
year’s layout. A section of the spacious Expo Center displayed dazzling
collector cars, all for sale, while sponsors and lifestyle exhibitors oc-
cupied the remaining floor space — everything from performance parts and electric
grills to mattresses and jewelry. Heck, you could even buy a boat.
Outside, most of the cars up for sale were housed in a large tent or multi-level
parking garage, each within plain sight of the other and a quick stroll away. The
diversity of the docket was impressive, everything from American Classics and
resto-mods to American muscle and 1980s and 1990s performance vehicles.
Among the individual highlights: An iconic 1953 Buick Skylark convertible,
restored seven years ago and finished in fantastic Matador Red, traded hands for
a $77k bargain price. One lot from the David Maxwell Collection was a stunning,
multi-award-winning, black 1971 Plymouth ’Cuda custom 2-door hard top sold for
$165k. A teal-over-black 1993 Ford Mustang Cobra SVT, with only 54k miles, sold
for $26,950.
72 AmericanCarCollector.com
Top overall sale honors went to a black 2019
Chevrolet Corvette Z06, the final C7 built, which sold
for $2.7 million. All proceeds benefited the Stephen
Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization
that builds mortgage-free homes for the most catastrophically
injured service members and helps pay off
the mortgages for families of first responders who lost
their lives in the line of duty.
Once the last light switch flipped off Saturday
night, 548 mostly no-reserve cars had gone to new
owners for $23.2 million, a 9% decline from last year’s
$25.7m. Part of the decline was because there were
124 fewer cars on the docket this year. However, the
average price per car increased 11%, to $42,426. While
it’s no surprise the industry is in the midst of a softer
market, collectors are still willing to pay more for
quality.
In four years, Barrett-Jackson has established its
Northeast sale as a go-to destination for New England
collector-car lovers in June. TV coverage on Motor
Trend helps drive the interest and traffic, but the auction
house has successfully packaged entertainment, amenities
and quality consignments into a winning formula
that attracts auctiongoers of all ages. The warm summer
weather certainly doesn’t hurt, either. A
QUICK TAKE
Page 72
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
CLASSIC
#406-1940 CADILLAC FLEETWOOD Imperial
limousine. VIN: 3320801. Black/black vinyl
& brown cloth. 346-ci V8, 2-bbl, 3-sp. Survivor
paint faded from age, shows imperfections in
places. GM Super Ray fog lights. Clear glass.
Dual encased fender-mounted spares. Roof discolored.
Rearmost passenger’s side window is
delaminating. Veteran Motor Car Club of America
sticker on rear window. Newer whitewalls
with red-painted wheels. Stated to retain its original
interior, which features a radio, divider window,
inlaid hardwood trim, two clocks and an
intercom system. Black vinyl front seats slightly
creased. Rear seats upholstered in brown material
look unused. Dirty dash padding. Claimed to
be a CCCA First Premier winner and a Preservation
Class winner at the St. Michaels Concours
d’Elegance. Cond: 3+.
windows and steering, AM radio. Twin-Turbine
Dynaflow transmission. Restoration receipts accompany
car. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $77,000. Launched in 1953 to celebrate
Buick’s 50th anniversary. Skylarks
brought big money several years ago, approaching
the $200k mark. Values have since receded
to the low-$100k neighborhood, which makes
this final bid a bargain. Very well bought.
SOLD AT $27,500. A limo claimed to be the
same year and model as the one used in “The
Godfather.” Perhaps a few token bullet holes
would’ve made this even more appealing to
bidders, but it wasn’t to be. Still, it had good
bones and looked pretty darn good in its current
state. Final bid was a little strong, but buyer
made an offer the seller couldn’t refuse (sorry, I
couldn’t resist, and besides, it was a no-reserve
car). A fair transaction.
GM
#653-1953 BUICK SKYLARK convertible.
VIN: 16740046. Matador Red/white
vinyl/burgundy & white leather. Odo: 86,708
miles. 322-ci V8, 2-bbl, 2-sp. auto. Stated to be a
two-owner Skylark. Restored in 2012 to nearconcours
standard. Excellent repaint in original
Matador Red pops; nothing observed worth noting.
Hood slightly off. Brightwork mostly very
good, though window trim is blemished. White
power top almost a perfect fit save for slight
bunching. Factory custom rear quarter panels.
Continental kit. Shiny Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels
within newer whitewalls. Dirty undercarriage was
a surprise. Impeccable interior spoiled by a small
dirt spot on driver’s seatback. Clean dash. Power
74 AmericanCarCollector.com
#360-1957 BUICK CENTURY Riviera coupe.
VIN: 6D5004712. Green/gray leatherette. Odo:
42,718 miles. 364-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. auto. Rebuilt
Nailhead engine and tranny. Restored at a
cost approaching $32k, but is losing its luster.
Paint has settled into a decent patina, but it no
longer shines and is wavy in areas. Yellow/light
green pinstriping intact. Mostly tired chrome.
Glass dirty, rear window is blotchy. Shaved door
handles with remote door and trunk actuators.
Rubber coming undone in passenger’s side
wiper. A hole atop right rear fender once housed
something (an antenna?). New dual exhaust.
Fifteen-inch Provider-branded right front tire,
the other three are no-names. Ultraleather (it’s
not real leather) interior is fresher than exterior.
New seats show no wear. Modern digital stereo,
rear speaker. Engine bay not seen, but catalog
pic shows detailed maintenance. Cond: 3+.
#340.1-1964 CHEVROLET IMPALA 2-dr
hard top. VIN: 41847J149256. Roman
Red/black vinyl. 283-ci V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp. “Mostly
unrestored” per the catalog description, but it
sure doesn’t look that way. Two-year-old repaint
in current Roman Red looks terrific. Lots of tiny
nicks on hood. Variable chrome. Rear bumper
heavily scratched. Very good gaps, glass. Shiny
five-spoke alloy wheels. Dual exhaust. Interior
claimed to retain its original vinyl upholstery, but
its as-new appearance tells a different story.
Detailed underhood if image on the B-J website
is most recent (can’t access as car stayed locked).
Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $27,500. This one had some of the
right ingredients such as a good year and condition,
but was let down by the small-block 283
and 3-sp. Generally speaking, this was a very
sharp driver that’s ready to put on the miles and
turn some heads in the process. Last sold at B-J’s
Scottsdale sale this past January for $19,250
(ACC# 6892014), and before that, at SG Auction’s
sale last October, where it traded hands
for $16,200 (ACC# 6883577). The consignor
made out handsomely today, sending it to a new
owner at a market-correct price.
#648.1-1964 BUICK RIVIERA 2-dr hard top.
VIN: 7K1212209. Sunburst Yellow/white leather.
Odo: 62,463 miles. 425-ci Nailhead V8, 2x4-bbl,
3-sp. auto. Presents as a recent restoration. No
observed rust anywhere. Two small flakes in very
well-applied paint. Mostly shiny chrome throughout.
Front bumper has scratches, nicks. Haziness
on chrome trim surrounding passenger’s side
windows. Excellent glass, gaps. Unmarred wire
wheels claimed to be original. Vercelli tires. Dual
exhaust. Eminently presentable interior with
super walnut trim. Buick tach atop dash an
SOLD AT $16,500. It would’ve benefited from a
good cleaning, as it appeared as if it hadn’t been
diligently looked after. As such, the seller paid
the price and buyer hit a home run. The odds
are good he can whip this into shape for not a
whole lot and realize a profit later on. Well
bought. Last appeared at Mecum’s Denver sale
in July 2017, where it sold for $27,500 (ACC#
6842060).
BEST
BUY
Page 74
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
add-on. Upholstery is like-new, no wear. Rear
bucket seats. Tissue holder and a/c. Clean trunk.
Cond: 1-. SOLD AT $44,000. One of the most
impressive American luxury cars of the era.
There have been few recent examples that have
sold at the strong price paid here, so our subject
car is in a rarefied group. This Riviera was stellar,
although Sunburst Yellow may not be to
everyone’s liking. Very well sold likely based on
condition alone.
#611-1968 CHEVROLET EL CAMINO pickup.
VIN: 136808Z115998. Marina Blue/black leather.
Odo: 83,883 miles. 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp. auto.
Florida car at some point in its life. No mention
of a restoration, but work was undoubtedly done
to elevate its appearance. Blemish-free paint
looks great on this body style. SS hood with black
racing stripes. Small dent on front bumper.
Chrome, panels, glass all very good. Bed coated
in black, in as-new condition. Crack in left rear
taillight. Five-spoke SS wheels with modern Goodrich
Radial T/As. Dual exhaust. Modern Corvette
leather seats (“Corvette” stitching on
seatbacks). Bunching on top of dash. Upgraded
radio with what appears to be custom, unbranded
speakers in back. Cleaning equipment
in rear-seat footwell, perhaps to remind bidders
of the meticulous care this El Camino has received.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $55,000. I love auctions that feature
a lot of Camaros from the ’60s because I never
grow tired of their sleek and captivating design.
They’re knockouts, and in my humble opinion,
rank among the finest designs of any make of
that era, American and foreign. This one’s fresh
restoration gets an A+ not only because of its
aesthetic magic, but also because it retained a
spirit of originality and character. Sales price hit
the market’s sweet spot, but I still think the 350ci
engine held it back a bit. Fairly bought and
sold.
#349-1969 PONTIAC GTO 2-dr hard top.
VIN: 242379A116266. Green/black vinyl/green
vinyl. 400-ci V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp auto. Equipped with
an upgraded engine producing 366 hp. With
power brakes and a/c. Nice paint, no major
quibbles. Yellow and white pinstriping holding
up well. “Judge” badging added in front of front
fenders and on top of rear spoiler, which shows
slight scuffing. Hood-mounted tach. Clear windshield.
Rear window has scratches. Very good
brightwork, body panels. Newer Goodrich Radial
T/As. Stunning interior. Seats may be replacements,
as they don’t show any wear. Catalog pic
shows well-sorted engine compartment. Odo not
accessible. Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $19,250. A rare occurrence in my
experience to find a rust-free El Camino showered
with such affection. It wouldn’t take much
to turn it into a genuine showpiece. Sold under
the money, so maybe the new owner will do just
that. Well bought.
#724-1969 CHEVROLET CAMARO SS coupe.
VIN: 124379N550396. Burgundy/black vinyl/
black vinyl. 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Mileage unknown,
as car was locked tight. A no-expensespared
rotisserie restoration done to the nines.
Stunning burgundy paint. Glass, chrome, gaps all
excellent. Black racing stripes. Color-matching
rear spoiler unscuffed. Looked clean as a whistle
inside. Console with gauge package. Factory a/c.
Power steering and disc brakes. Comes with repro
window sticker. A beautiful specimen.
Cond: 1.
76 AmericanCarCollector.com
SOLD AT $30,250. Sold just a tad shy of the
$31k median value in the ACC Pocket Price
Guide, which was in the vicinity of other recent
transactions. It could’ve realized more, but bidders
likely frowned upon the auto tranny. Fairly
bought and sold.
#364-1969 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS 2-dr
hard top. VIN: 136379B339452. Yellow/black
vinyl/black vinyl. 454-ci V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp. auto.
Upgraded with a 454-ci, 450-hp engine GM introduced
in 1970. Frame-off restoration done to
a very high standard. No observed flaws in paint,
only that body’s a little dirty. No issues with
black racing stripes along sides. Respectable
chrome, but it doesn’t reflect the quality of the
other work that was done. Glass, panel fit good.
American Racing wheels shod with repro Goodrich
Radial T/As. Vinyl interior looks all new.
Sunpro tach attached to steering column. AM/FM
radio. Pic of engine bay on B-J website shows a
clean presentation. Power steering and brakes.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $32,450. Muscle-car aficionados
would’ve been drawn to the big-block upgrade.
The only factors that might’ve curbed their enthusiasm
were the yellow and, most definitely,
the automatic tranny. Even so, this quicker
Chevelle hammered sold way below the $43k
median value (and that’s for a 396-ci engine),
according to the ACC price guide, so I’d say the
new owner made out very well today. Well
bought.
#419.1-1969 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS 396
2-dr hard top. VIN: 136379G341592. Black/
black vinyl. Odo: 27,280 miles. 396-ci V8, 4-bbl,
3-sp. auto. Said to be the recipient of a frame-on
restoration in 2012, and reportedly $5k spent in
parts and 40-plus labor hours invested in past
two years. Paint has withered a bit; no abrasions,
just not as sharp as it likely once was. Custom
silver stripes on hood and trunk intact.
Decent chrome. Good gaps. Good glass, though
several pieces show impermanent smudges. With
18-inch Foose rims and new Toyo tires. Interior
condition looks very good. Clear gauge cluster.
Auction listing depicts clean engine bay. TH400
transmission. Four-wheel disc-brake conversion
with cross-drilled and slotted rotors and new
brake lines. When it was “fully serviced” (per the
catalog) was not provided. Cond: 2+.
Page 76
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
SOLD AT $44,000. A non-matching-numbers
SS 396, which I take to mean that the engine is
not original to the car. Median value for the
real-deal coupe is $43k. So factoring in a transplanted
engine and the sacrilege of the 3-speed
auto tranny, I’d say this fetched a strong winning
bid. Condition and the few mechanical upgrades
trumped the shortfalls. Slightly well sold.
#639-1970 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS S W-31
Holiday 2-dr hard top. VIN: 336870M175170.
Matador Red/black vinyl. Odo: 67,556 miles.
Rocket 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Frame-off restoration
performed three years ago turns this W-31
into a looker. Deep Matador Red paint really
pops. Twin scoops atop a fiberglass hood. W-31
badges at front fenders behind wheelwell.
Chrome trim along driver’s window dented.
Bumpers show nicks, scratches. Red rear spoiler
large enough to accommodate a skateboard
maneuver. Wheels gleam. Optional dual exhaust,
suspension and handling package. Looks like a
brand-new interior, reupholstered with originality
in mind. Interior options include dual-gate
shifter and sport wheel. Engine bay not seen, but
looks clean and in stock form in catalog pics.
Optioned with W-25 code low-restriction air
cleaner, heavy-duty four-core radiator, auto
tranny and positraction. Cond: 2+.
nothing major amiss. Seats as-new. Tilt steering
column with wood-rimmed wheel. Underhood
not seen, but catalog pic shows a well-sorted bay.
Cond: 2+.
140 horses. This Trans Am was in great condition,
requiring not a whole lot to make it mint.
The new owner got a great deal, well south of
the $18,500 median value in the price guide.
Well bought.
SOLD AT $19,800. Big money for this fine
Monte Carlo, nudging into SS territory. Proof
that these are getting some recognition from the
collector-car community. Well worth the money
paid for condition alone. Fairly bought and sold.
SOLD AT $41,800. The Holiday was Oldsmobile’s
affordable, mass-production model. There
wasn’t much to fault on this W-31. It’s been a
while since these sold at this price level, but it
wasn’t unheard of 10 years ago. Let’s call this
well sold today, but the buyer got a nice, solid
car.
#341-1971 CHEVROLET MONTE CARLO
2-dr hard top. VIN: 138571K173475. Black/tan
cloth. 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Numbers matching.
Comes across as a recent restoration that’s holding
up very well. Catalog description notes a
lowered suspension, and it looks low to the
ground. High-quality paint, but not concours.
Discoloration, smearing on right front fender.
Small nicks on trunk. Tiny circular crack in driver’s
outside mirror. Panels probably better than
factory. Dual exhaust. Ridler five-spoke alloy
wheels gleam. Seventeen-inch Nankang tires up
front, Nexens in back. Stunning interior, with
78 AmericanCarCollector.com
#144-1980 PONTIAC TRANS AM coupe.
VIN: 2W87WAN125934. White/blue cloth. Odo:
92,775 km. 301-ci V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp. auto. Canadian
car. Equipped with new brakes, Hooker
Super Competition headers and Flowmaster Super
44 mufflers. Odo not accessible, mileage
provided on take-one card. Highly original Trans
Am wears its original paint, which gets a
thumbs-up for holding up well after nearly 40
years. No issues with Screaming Chicken in blue/
light-blue/gold color scheme. Scratches on front
bumper. Front air dam has cracks. Streak on
windshield, otherwise good glass. T-tops with
tinted glass. Black rear window louvers dirty but
unscuffed. Used BFGoodrich Radial T/As. Original
interior is in remarkably fantastic condition,
although blue cloth won’t be to everyone’s liking.
Excellent dash, all gauges there and legible.
Looks like an aftermarket radio below the stock
one. Driver’s side T-top resting in the back seat.
Original build sheet on driver’s window. Cond: 2.
#136-1987 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL
coupe. VIN: 1G4GJ1171HP443642. Black/black
& gray cloth. Odo: 90,422 miles. 3.8L turbocharged
V6, 4-sp. auto. Blacked-out grille. No
major flaws with paint that’s held up well. Grand
National badges on front fenders, left rear deck.
Driver’s door off, also creaks when I open it.
Weatherstripping at base of driver’s window
coming undone. Sunroof. Flake on right rear
passenger’s window. Streaks at left rear fender.
Nicks on rear deck. Scuffing along trunk seam.
Dual exhaust. Goodrich Comp T/As wrapped
around GNX wheels, but it’s not a GNX. Seats are
in incredibly good shape; nothing of concern to
call out. Driver’s seat belt frayed. Dash padding
shows damage. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $19,800. Last year of the Grand National.
In my opinion, one of the pluses these
have going for them is the absence of exterior
chrome, which gives them a menacing appearance.
Recent examples have retrieved stronger
winning bids at auction than our subject car.
Factor in the $25,500 median value in the ACC
price guide, and this car dramatically underperformed.
Bidders must’ve been in a collective
trance, while the alert buyer drove away all the
merrier. Well bought.
CORVETTE
SOLD AT $11,770. Yes, it looked fast, and the
now-gaudy-to-some Screaming Chicken perhaps
added to the allure, but in reality this thing
punched out a paltry (or should it be “poultry”)
#344.1-1974 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 1Z67T4S409775. Silver Mist/black
vinyl/black leather. miles. 454-ci 270-hp V8,
4-bbl, auto. Options include power steering,
brakes and windows, clock, a/c, AM/FM radio, tilt
and telescoping steering wheel, luggage rack
and Rally wheels. 454 badge on hood. Bubbling
in paint at both doors. Nicks, blister on driver’s
door; handle nicked, too. “Astro Ventilation”
script on passenger’s door. Soft top fits well, but
plastic window shows what could be a delaminating
line running across it. Rusting on rear lug
Page 78
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
gage-rack base unit. Wheels rash-free. New
Goodyear Eagle GT II tires. Interior looks great
from outside looking in. Docs include owner’s
manual, warranty pamphlet and others. Cond: 2.
ning bid. Unless the mechanicals were shaky, the
problem areas were mainly cosmetic. The new
owner didn’t get lucky, but I think a stroke of
good fortune struck him at the right moment,
gifting to him the possibility of fixing things up
and realizing a profit down the road.
SOLD AT $16,500. Astro Ventilation was a way
of circulating fresh air in the cabin, and eliminated
the need for a side vent window. Car
looked like it had been restored, but the auction
company made no mention of it. It had a few
needs, so it wasn’t going to win any major
awards, but it’d get the neighbors talking. Winning
bid was a little light given its condition, so
kudos to the buyer.
FOMOCO
#143-1956 FORD THUNDERBIRD convertible.
VIN: P6FH207577. Red/white vinyl/black &
white vinyl. Odo: 65,157 miles. 292-ci V8, 4-bbl,
3-sp. Engine rebuilt and installed in 2005, but
auction catalog doesn’t mention if it’s the original
unit. Said to have fewer than 10k miles on it
since then. New rear springs. A can’t-miss T-bird
from afar, it’s only when you get closer that it
reveals its imperfections: blisters, minor flaking
just above grille, flakes at left headlamp, and
lots of abrasions on front bumper. Bumperettes
have been replated. Chrome surrounding headlights
heavily mottled. Pitting on hood. Large
crack at cowl on passenger side. Rear bumper
scuffed. Hard red case housing spare full of nicks.
Orange peel on trunk. Fender skirts unmarred.
Continental kit. New Coker whitewalls. “Tuxedo”
interior dirty, gives off a drab vibe compared to
sharper exterior. Cond: 3+.
#324.2-1962 MERCURY MONTEREY 2-dr
hard top. VIN: 2Z53X516584. Teaberry/gray
vinyl, brown cloth. Odo: 92,969 miles. 352-ci V8,
2-bbl, 3-sp. auto. Mileage is per the car card.
Claimed to be an unrestored example, except it
was repainted in unique Teaberry 15 years ago
(original color is unknown). B-J noted that Teaberry
was a color option available from ’61 to
’63. In the dim lighting of the parking garage,
the paint looks and feels smooth—no evidence
of dents—and has only a few blemishes: tiny
flakes on hood, waviness on right side. Average
chrome trim. Mottled passenger’s side chrome
window frame. Good bumpers, glass.
Weatherstripping intact. A “mostly original” interior
per car card. Seats show hardly any wear;
hard to believe they’re original. Dash nice, no
major complaints. Pioneer speakers at rear.
Clean engine bay per catalog pic. West Coast car.
Cond: 2-.
fects. Paint is evidently flawless. TLC to wheels,
bumpers, although rocker panels are dirty. Good
glass, gaps. Clear lamps. Rides on Mastercraft
tires wrapped around 15-inch American Racing
five-spoke wheels. Immaculate interior on par
with exterior. One issue, and I’m nitpicking, is
that the headliner is bunching in places. Docs
include restoration and parts receipts from August
2009 to February 2014. Owner’s manual,
original Ford Registered Owner Identification
Card, South Carolina vehicle registration, and
Ford Owner Satisfaction Survey Card also included.
Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $60,500. A terrific restoration that
stayed true to this 2+2’s original look. Sold well
above the price-guide median value of $40k, but
go find another in this condition. Now the ageold
dilemma: Store it or drive it? You only live
once, that’s my answer. Fairly bought and sold,
with a slight nod to the seller.
SOLD AT $8,800. Can anyone tell me what
Teaberry resembles as an exterior color on a
Mercury Monterey? It reminds me of the shade of
an orange popsicle, but I didn’t know it before
encountering it on this Monterey. I guess there’s
a first time for everything. And to be honest, it
totally worked on this car; I really liked it, but
the gray-and-brown upholstery unfortunately
didn’t do it any favors. I’ve always liked the
Monterey, and this one was no exception. It’s a
solid straight-up big thing that’ll bring miles of
enjoyable, worry-free motoring. That it wasn’t a
convertible, and, dare I say it, its polarizing Teaberry
hue likely held it back, but I still think it
deserved more. Well bought.
SOLD AT $18,150. This one was far from perfect,
but not that far gone to top out at this win-
80 AmericanCarCollector.com
#365-1965 FORD MUSTANG 2+2 fastback.
VIN: 5F09C388664. Medium blue/light blue vinyl.
Odo: 48,028 miles. 289-ci V8, 2-bbl, 4-sp.
Restored within the past 10 years, and from the
looks of it, must’ve rarely been on the road since.
It’s a gorgeous Mustang, nearly free of any de-
#689-1969 FORD MUSTANG Boss
429 fastback. VIN: 9F02Z159781.
Royal Maroon/black vinyl. 429-ci V8, twin
Webers, 4-sp. A highly modified engine, built
and balanced by Oregon-based Ross Racing and
Restoration. Original shock towers and front
aprons replaced with upgraded hardware. RJS
safety harnesses with SFI tags, Haneline gauges,
four-point roll bar. Rod & Custom front suspension.
Suspension has a Panhard bar and Traction
Master traction bars. Front disc brakes, rack-andpinion
steering. As to the cosmetics, aside from a
few scratches on driver’s door and scuffing on
passenger’s rocker panel, the car’s like new.
Comes with Marti Report and two shipping invoices.
From the David Maxwell Collection. No
reserve. Cond: 1.
8
TOP 10
Page 80
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
ONE TO WATCH
Cars With Values on the Move
$35,000
$30,000
$25,000
$20,000
$15,000
$10,000
$5,000
$0
2015
2016
2017
2018
“G
1983–84 Oldsmobile
Hurst/Olds Coupe
et hold of some lightning… and turn it loose.” The 180 hp of the 1983 and ’84 Hurst/
Olds may keep it from being lightning-quick, but Hurst made it totally tubular with
the addition of their Lightning Rods Shifter.
Meant to replicate the look of the triple-arm shifters used in race cars, the modification
let the driver shift manually into first, second and high gear — each gear having
its own shift lever. It was a unique look in a 1980s Olds, but it made sure there was no mistaking
the Hurst/Olds for the sedate Cutlass in its lineage.
The H/O belongs to GM’s G-body family. The same platform
was used for Buick’s Regal, Grand National and GNX — the leaders
in ’80s collectible cars. The main difference between the two
is drivetrain. Buick went with a turbo V6 while Olds stuck with
the tried-and-true American V8. At 307 ci, it was no monster, but
it was familiar, and the Hurst shifter added the necessary touch of
cool. If a car is to rival Buick’s supremacy, it’s the H/O.
The market for the Hurst/Olds has been unpredictable. Most
examples have been selling for $20k to $25k, with outliers around
$33k on the top end and $16k on the low side. If you pay attention,
there is still a good chance of picking up a Hurst/Olds for a belowmarket
price.
Get ahold of that lightning today, let it loose tomorrow and
earn a buck or two in the process.A — Chad Taylor
• Highs: Gnarly ’80s styling, Hurst Lightning Rods Shifter,
low(ish) production total
• Lows: Mediocre performance, never going to be a Grand
National
82 AmericanCarCollector.com82 AmericanCarCollector.com
• Outlook: With its relation to other G-body stars and a rad
shifter, the H/O has some next-gen updside
Detailing
Years built: 1983–84
Number produced: 6,501
Number sold at auction in
the past 12 months: 7
Average price of those
cars: $20,507
Number listed in the
ACC Premium Auction
Database: 33
Current ACC Median
Valuation: $20,900
SOLD AT $58,300. The stellar condition of this
Mach 1 was somehow lost on the assembled
crowd. It did cross the block on Saturday, the last
day of the three-day auction. Had the casino
wreaked havoc on bidders’ wallets by then? I
doubt it, but they undoubtedly winced at the
auto transmission. That held it back, but new
owner still got a great deal, nearly $10k below
the price guide median value. Well bought.
#725-1970 FORD MUSTANG Boss 302 fastback.
VIN: 0F02G135984. Grabber Blue/black
vinyl. Odo: 54,893 miles. 302-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp.
Mileage is per car card. Exceptional restoration
completed 11 years ago, and has reportedly been
kept in a climate-controlled garage since. Stated
to be a correct but rebuilt 302 with a date-codecorrect
Ford DOZE service block, which has un-
2019
MEDIAN SOLD PRICE BY YEAR
$31,860
$28,600
$20,900
$20,350
$20,900
SOLD AT $126,500. A stock Boss 429 was fitted
with a 4-bbl and produced 375 hp, but no telling
what this car’s power was with all the engine
mods. It’s been a Mecum regular, not selling at
its Indy sale in May 2018 at a high bid of $170k
(ACC# 6873675); another no-sale in Houston a
month prior at $220k (ACC# 6871564); again a
no-sale in Kissimmee in January 2018 at $210k
(ACC# 6860378); and sold in Las Vegas in November
2017 at $220k (ACC# 6854585). Today,
the seller took a bath, losing $93.5k at sale in
less than two years. There’s no indication in the
ACC Premium Auction Database records of this
car or in B-J’s catalog description when these
mods were made, so it’s an open question
whether it’s a softer market or this 429’s altered
nature that accounted for the plunge in value. In
any case, I’d say well bought.
#723-1970 FORD MUSTANG Mach 1 fastback.
VIN: 0T05R112897. Yellow/white vinyl.
Odo: 51,031 miles. 428-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. A
beautifully restored example with 51,031 original
miles, per car card. Nearly faultless—biggest
nit to point out is the rubber weatherstripping
around passenger’s door coming loose. Equipped
with Cobra Jet Ram Air V8. Paint, chrome and
glass project a clean appearance. All lamps excellent.
Pristine interior. Comes with an Elite Marti
Report, which indicates it is one-of-one with all
of its options. Stunning. Cond: 1-.
Page 81
BARRETT-JACKSON • UNCASVILLE, CT
dergone modifications. Rebuilt 4-speed as well,
with new clutch. Suspension restored, now has
optional 3.91 gears. Added hood tach has been
converted to modern electronics. Dealer-installed
sport slats. Shiny Magnum 500 wheels shod with
Goodrich Radial T/As. Highly restored interior is
pristine. New dash with LED light conversion.
New carpeting and door panels. Docs include
Marti Report, Eminger factory invoice, original
build sheet and owner’s manual. Cond: 1.
unless it was just replaced, has managed to stay
dirt-free. Clean dash with clear instruments. Tidy
engine compartment, assuming the catalog pic is
up to date. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $53,900. A
strong and honest presentation that had oodles
of eyeball. It’d be a great weekend driver to
places seen and unseen, but no reason not to
enjoy it during the workweek as well. Translation:
a terrific daily driver. Worth every penny,
but both buyer and seller should’ve walked away
satisfied.
AMERICANA
SOLD AT $69,300. This very attractive 302 was
claimed to be driven 1,500 miles since the restoration
was completed. Seems like a lot to me
considering the tiniest of misfortunes that
could’ve reversed the painstaking work that went
into it. Kudos to the consignor for using it at all!
Sold right in the heart of the market, but still a
surprising result seeing as it didn’t fetch more.
Maybe it’s a lesson that the buoyant reception
sellers expect when they make certain modifications
doesn’t always pan out. Well bought today.
MOPAR
#376-1970 PLYMOUTH ROAD RUNNER
convertible. VIN: RM27N0G234347. Rally Red/
white vinyl/white vinyl. Odo: 79,812 miles. 383-ci
V8, 4-bbl, auto. Numbers matching. Had to be a
recent restoration on this eye-soothing Road
Runner because there’s nothing glaring that
stands out. A respectable refinish in original
Rally Red paint. Stylized yellow-and-black pinstriping
along body flanks is continuous. Decent
chrome. Very good glass, panels. Unscuffed rear
spoiler. New soft top is down, can’t inspect.
Wears newish Goodrich Radial T/As. Clean undercarriage.
Beautiful white vinyl interior that,
#335-1962 STUDEBAKER GRAN TURISMO
HAWK coupe. VIN: 62V18466. White/black &
white vinyl. Odo: 81,378 miles. 259-ci V8, 2-bbl,
4-sp. A few nicks, blisters on hood. Nicks on driver’s
door. Mediocre chrome and stainless. Scuff
marks, pitting on rear bumper. Shiny glass.
Good panel fit. Rubber seals showing age, but all
there. Surface streak on rear window, Studebaker
Drivers Club sticker affixed there, too.
American Racing Torq Thrust D wheels carry
BFGoodrich Silvertown Redline tires. Dual exhaust.
Sweet interior features custom Pearl White
and black vinyl upholstery accented with red
piping. Super woodgrain dash trim. Kraco radio,
a/c, power steering. Engine bay not accessible,
but catalog pics show it’s clean and note an upgraded
aluminum radiator. Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $8,250. The Champ was born at a
time when Studebaker was teetering on the
brink of financial ruin. To save money, the company
fabricated a cab from the front sheet metal
of its Lark sedan, while the Champ’s chassis employed
a design over a decade old. This was a
reasonable result given this truck’s condition.
Last seen at auction at last year’s Saratoga Auto
Auction in September, where it sold for $7,700
(ACC# 6882836).
#2-1989 JEEP WRANGLER SUV. VIN:
2J4FY19E5KJ117436. Red/tan vinyl/gray vinyl.
Odo: 56,620 miles. 2.5-L fuel-injected I4, 5-sp. A
highly original Wrangler. Ho-hum paint probably
from sun exposure. Flakes, white specks,
light scratches on front fender. Good lamps.
Panel fit is good. Replacement Bestop soft top
fits very well, plastic windows hazy and blemished.
Wheels show rust. Used Goodyear Wrangler
radials. Spare is attached to back of car and
is pitted. Musty inside, looks bone-stock. Plastic
dual cupholder accessory situated between front
seats. Clear gauges. No radio. Cond: 3.
Clean inside with minimal instrumentation. “Recently
tuned up and serviced.” TX car. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $19,250. This was a very good-looking
Hawk in good colors. It was equipped with
the 259-ci engine and not the more-powerful
289. Still, that didn’t seem to quell bidders’ interest,
as it sold slightly north of the current
market. Well sold, but the buyer should have no
regrets.
#17-1964 STUDEBAKER CHAMP pickup.
VIN: E5139461. Green/green & white vinyl. Odo:
65,101 miles. 170-ci I6, 1-bbl, 3-sp. Driver-quality
paint on this light-duty truck. Flaking and
scratches throughout. Bubbles in paint at passenger’s
door. Bed floor, wheelarches rusting.
Passenger’s side wheelarch dented. Rims pitted.
Chrome bed rails dull and marked up. Good
glass. Hubcaps are original. New rear bumper.
SOLD AT $6,050. A used Jeep, but you don’t
expect a 30-year-old example to be anything
more. No bells and whistles, just a take-me-as-Iam
YJ Wrangler cursed with the unfortunate
rectangular headlights. That alone knocked it
down a few pegs. Its condition kept it there. A
fair deal for buyer and seller at credit-card
money. A
September–October 2019 83
Page 82
MECUM AUCTIONS • INDIANAPOLIS, IN
The 32nd Annual Spring Classic
A low-mile, mostly original, groovy-lookin’ Mod Top easily surpassed the
estate’s $50k reserve to become one of the most talked-about cars
Mecum Auctions
Indianapolis, IN
May 14–19, 2019
Auctioneers: Mark
Delzell, Jim Landis, Matt
Moravec, Jeff Knox, Russ
Coughlin, Heath Spectre,
Bernie Wagoner
Automotive lots sold/
offered: 1,127/1,724
Sales rate: 65%
Sales total: $63,141,705
High sale: 1967 Shelby
Cobra 427 S/C roadster,
sold at $2,860,000
Buyer’s premium:
10%, minimum $500,
included in sold prices
Over-the-top unexpected price for a dealer-demo Mod Top — 1969 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S Mod Top
2-door hard top, sold at $440,000
Report and photos by B. Mitchell Carlson
Market opinions in italics
• Second-highest total ever at the Spring Classic
• Six cars sold for over $1m each
• Average per car of $56,026 is best ever at Mecum’s
Indianapolis sale
T
he 32nd edition of Mecum’s Spring Classic showed impressive staying power
after impressive, continuous growth from previous years. Total car sales
declined 4% from last year’s record high of $65.5m, but that’s with 200 fewer
cars selling and a seven-point drop in sell-through rate.
Now with a decade on the grounds of the Indiana State Fairgrounds in
Indianapolis, Mecum pretty much has the layout down pat for making everything
flow for six days of auctions. With fewer cars, those six days were a lot more manageable,
as burnout by consignors and staff starts to have an effect by Saturday.
The big news here — before, during and after the Spring Classic — was the sale
of the Steven Juliano Collection. While smaller in number than most of the other
collections offered here, at only 10 cars, the collection made up for it in quality —
and sales. Not only was the top-selling car all week from his collection, but three of
the five top sales were the Cobras that sold from the collection. Topping everything
for sales in Indy this year was the Juliano 1967 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C. Notable
just as the last Cobra sold “new” by the owner of the dealership in 1982, Juliano’s
84 AmericanCarCollector.com
stunning all-original-parts restoration ensured that it
was going to ring the bell here, and at $2.86 million, it
certainly did.
While having few cars, Juliano’s collection of
automobilia, comprising of more than 2,500 lots, was
large enough in scope to be an event within an event.
Actually, several events. His three Plymouth Rapid
Transit System show cars were presented among the
automobilia for a display that Mopar fans will not soon
forget. Yet it was the car that few observers thought
would do well that topped even those rare show-car
survivors — a 1969 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S
with the rare Mod Top option. This low-mile, mostly
original, groovy-lookin’ ride easily surpassed the
estate’s $50k reserve, to become one of the most
talked-about cars here after it sold for $440,000.
Not only did Mecum have their usual Road Art
segment, but they started a new online bidding
platform with the smaller-value items. With the
automobilia added into totals, Mecum’s press releases
were touting the Spring Classic as a $70.4 million
event — and one that folks will be talking about for
years to come. A
QUICK TAKE
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GM
#T50-1965 CHEVROLET CORVAIR Corsa
coupe. VIN: 107375W226660. Silver Blue/black
vinyl. Odo: 89,408 miles. 164-ci H6, 4x1-bbl,
4-sp. Body has plenty of filler in it, especially at
the common rust-out point at base of windshield,
which is poorly shaped and lumpy (I guess the
body shop’s belt sander was broken). More
lumpy filler at top of windshield posts. Over this,
a halfway decent base-clear repaint was applied.
Sanding scratches on masked-off stainless trim.
Door gaps acceptable, but engine lid and trunk
gaps off. New perimeter seals around engine
compartment. Inside engine bay, it’s fairly clean
and generally stock. New fiberglass pad on bottom
of hood. Economy-grade battery and new
radial spare tire. Reproduction seats, door panels
and carpeting generally well fitted. Modern,
retro-look electronic radio and sound system in
dash. Cond: 3.
belts, reconditioned dash board and steering
column; otherwise, its all-reproduction interior
soft trim looks professionally installed. Concoursquality
detailing underhood, down to correct
spring-terminal battery cables on a reproduction
battery. Undercarriage is not just clean, it’s
gleaming. Cond: 1-. NOT SOLD AT $140,000.
Right after restoration, it was judged to 998 out
of 1,000 points at the most recent Muscle Car
and Corvette Nationals—in addition to being
awarded Best Buick and Judges Choice Platinum
awards there. This is interesting enough for being
one of 147 GS Stage 1 drop-tops, but it was
originally an export car, shipped to England,
then repatriated in 2005. Bidding opened at
$100k, going at $10k steps until it hung here at
$140k—right at the bottom of the pre-sale estimate.
However, the consignor likely thinks an
exceptional car should get an exceptional price.
SOLD AT $17,600. I took one look at this and
“$5k driver-grade, patched-up, rusty Corvair” is
all that registered with me. Apparently that
didn’t register with the bidders, who were probably
looking in the trunk up front for the engine.
Sold at no reserve from one of the large collections
that was offered here—and sold exceptionally
well.
#F190.1-1970 BUICK SKYLARK GS Stage 1
convertible. VIN: 446670H102206. White/black
vinyl/black vinyl. Odo: 24 miles. 455-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Options include ps, front disc pb, Rally ridecontrol
package, power windows, power top,
power seats, tilt steering column and AM/FM
radio, with rear speaker. Road Wheels shod with
reproduction bias-ply Redline tires. Two-year
frame-off restoration completed in 2018. Superb
bare-body repaint and replating of all chrome.
Modern reproduction windshield. Original seat
#F191-1970 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS 454
convertible. VIN: 136670B216680. White/black
vinyl/red vinyl. Odo: 21,572 miles. 454-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Optional a/c, power top, power
steering, power front disc brakes, Cowl Induction
hood and center console. Professional rotisserie
restoration completed in recent years. Rather
nice base/clear repaint, inclusive of stripes as
part of clearcoat. New windshield already delaminating
along bottom and sides. Four halogen
headlights. All chrome either replated or
reproduction. Refurbished stainless trim. New
door and window seals, so doors take a little
effort to overcome the sponginess of the seals.
Repainted dashboard sprayed over pitting at
base of windshield. Well-fitted reproduction
seats, carpeting and door panels. Aftermarket
kick panels with built-in speakers, to support the
electronic radio in dashboard. Clean and generally
stock underhood. Cond: 2.
tag, fitted with the Blazer Chalet camper package.
Other options include 3.73 diffs, tilt steering,
3,500-watt alternator, a/c, 31-gallon gas tank
and Rally wheels. Believed to be actual miles.
Base/clear repaint on the Blazer body only.
Heavier fading of original decals. Dealer sticker
on back of the camper from Jim Kraut Chevrolet
of Butte, MT, plus period “Big Sky Montana” rear
mud flaps. Decent door fit on cab, but camper
door fit is rickety. Recent engine repaint. Additional
12-volt battery added as part of camper
package. Transfer-case shift knob and dashboard
trim sun-faded. Camper vinyl seats and wall
liners look to have been re-covered a few years
ago. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $19,250. Introduced in April 1976,
the Chalet was considered a factory option. It
was available in four trim levels, from a nearly
bare interior to fully loaded like this one (the
final step in trim adds sleeping bunks over the
driver’s compartment). As it uses the stock bolt
holes for the removable rear section of the
Blazer, you could unbolt the Chalet; but you’ll
only have the two front seats, no cover for the
rear compartment, and no tailgate, as Chalets
were sold fully installed. Within a month of selling
here, it was being schlepped online by a
dealer for an additional $10k on top of what
they paid. While I thought that it could do a little
better than what it did across the block at Indy,
they may end up shaving off at least $5k to find
a new retail owner.
CORVETTE
SOLD AT $80,300. Generally good work on an
LS5 that’s seen its share of use before being
restored. Yet it’s just shy of being worth any
more than the bid on stage. Stated that it’s going
to take $80k to get it bought, and it appeared
at this sold price in the post-sale sheet.
#T40-1977 CHEVROLET BLAZER K5 Cheyenne
Chalet SUV. VIN: CKR187F131204.
Brown metallic & tan/tan vinyl, plaid cloth. Odo:
52,379 miles. 400-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Per SPID
86 AmericanCarCollector.com
#T171-1955 CHEVROLET CORVETTE roadster.
VIN: VE55S001480. Corvette Copper/white
vinyl/dark beige vinyl. Odo: 8,853 miles. 265-ci
195-hp V8, 4-bbl, auto. Better-quality restoration
completed in recent years. Good body prep and
paint, although top flipper has a significant
amount of light scratching and a few nicks from
top frame landing on it. Typical C1 door-fit issues—gaps
look okay when looking straight at
them, but door protrudes from the body by at
least a quarter of an inch. Recently detailed engine
bay, with a good engine repaint. New plating
on air cleaner, valve covers, distributor
canister and coil shield. Correct original exhaust
log manifolds, new ground straps. Expertly re
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MECUM AUCTIONS • INDIANAPOLIS, IN
stored interior with reproduction materials.
Clean, show-quality detailing on chassis, to include
replicated inspection marks. Yet bare-metal
hardware has light flash rust. Cond: 2.
played with the car—despite having a rather
nice custom display board made up for it (using
a C6 logo). Aside from being a low-mile SplitWindow,
there’s not that much more to be excited
about on it. Not much for options and fitted
with a rather common powertrain for a ’63—
and in one of the least-popular colors today. I
got the feeling that past the real-money opening
bid of $50k, there was little real interest in it.
NOT SOLD AT $82,000. Stated that this is one
of the 15 1955s painted Corvette Copper in the
Corvette’s second-lowest year of production.
However, nothing was shown to prove decisively
that the car was painted this color from new. As
such, the $100k–$120k pre-sale guesstimate
would be more correct if it could be proven to be
the original color. As-is, the final bid is closer to
reality for it.
#F180-1963 CHEVROLET CORVETTE SplitWindow
coupe. VIN: 30837S117619. Saddle
Tan/Saddle leather. Odo: 29,437 miles. 327-ci
300-hp V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Stated that indicated
miles are actual and that the car is essentially
original. Also stated that there has been some
paintwork done. Top of rear deck has some light
orange peel. Upper and lower body splice broadcasting
in various places. All chrome also presents
very well, even with a few light pits and
some minor dulling in places. Door fit slightly
low. Engine compartment detailed a few years
back and while not as sparkling, still looks good.
Good original interior, apart from a later-day
T-pad center armrest. Some seam lifting and
general wrinkling from heavily compressed seat
padding on driver’s seat. Washed-off original
undercarriage, with light surface rust on bare
metal and new OE mufflers on rusty pipes.
Cond: 2-.
#F114-1965 CHEVROLET CORVETTE coupe.
VIN: 194375S112309. Rally Red/black vinyl.
Odo: 20,328 miles. 327-ci 350-hp V8, 4-bbl,
4-sp. Original window sticker shows it was sold
new by Brackin Chevrolet of Lidgerwood, ND,
equipped with optional telescopic steering column,
transistorized ignition, ps, 3.70 Posi diff.,
AM/FM radio and knockoff wheels. Paint has
some light orange peel in places and some light
blistering from lifting on fender tops, but overall
presents well. Body seam cracks forming at top of
windshield frame. Light body-joint broadcasting.
Good door fit. Light fraying of some stitching,
carpet fading in rear compartment, and carpet
pulling loose from center console trim plate, but
otherwise great original interior. Older engine
repaint and component detailing still reasonably
good. Cond: 3+.
and emblems, plus non-stock V8 badges on front
fenders. Dealer-installed rear bumper, sold by
Carpenter and Son Inc. of Pontotoc, MS. Crudely
fashioned inner cab step trim. New seat upholstery
with generic pleats. Non-stock carpet
added, in addition to LED lighting below dashboard.
Exhaust system modified to dump down
and into custom-made duals, without the stock
wrist-burner cross-over pipe in the front. Looks
like a rattle can of gloss black blew up under the
truck rather than it being painted. Cond: 3+.
NOT SOLD AT $110,000. The easy joke here is
that it was only driven on sunny days with nice
weather—without wind and snow—when new
in NoDak. Yet there is a certain grain of truth to
that, as there are some real automotive gems
socked away on the arid north-central plains.
Despite the stated low miles, I’m more surprised
that there hasn’t been any attempt at judging
this in an NCRS event or Bloomington Gold. Perhaps
that’s the next steward’s job, but despite a
full-market-and-change bid, the baton didn’t get
passed.
FOMOCO
NOT SOLD AT $100,000. Stated that it retained
all of the original documentation from
when it was sold new by A.D. Anderson Chevrolet
of Baltimore, MD, but no copies of it were dis-
88 AmericanCarCollector.com
#T39-1964 FORD F-100 pickup. VIN: F10CK520924.
Pagoda Green & white/black vinyl.
Odo: 52,082 miles. 292-ci V8, 2-bbl, 3-sp. Rather
good trim-off repaint. New dark-finish wood in
cargo-box floor with aftermarket polished stainless
retaining strips. Color-matched bed liner on
interior sides of the box. Reproduction mirrors
SOLD AT $18,150. 1964 was the last year of
both the solid front axle on half-tons and of the
use of Y-block V8s for trucks. However, some
would argue that the Twin I-Beam front suspension
and FE-block V8s were hardly improvements.
I tend to prefer the look of the 1964s over
the 1965s and 1966s, being indifferent on the
suspension (rides better versus simpler and more
robust), but preferring the FE engines over the
heavy blow-by Y-blocks, with that damn goofy
cross-over exhaust pipe. Yet there is one thing
that there’s no doubt about—this no-reserve
pickup sold very well. Not just being on the high
end of Mecum’s pre-sale guesstimate, but doing
nearly double of where I felt it should sell. Well,
that’s auctions for you.
#F123-1965 SHELBY GT350 fastback. VIN:
SFM5S069. Wimbledon White/black vinyl. Odo:
42,405 miles. 289-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Well-known
history in SAAC registry, including SCCA Southwest
Region wins in period. Authentically restored
approximately a decade ago. Great
repaint. Right front corner of hood is markedly
more rounded than the left side and subsequently
doesn’t sit flush with front fascia. Betterthan-average
bumper replating. Tri-bar pony
emblem in grille is too far towards the center for
stock—it’s almost in line with the outboard edge
of the stripe. Near concours-quality engine bay
detailing. Glovebox door signed by Mr. Shelby
and has an SCCA dash plaque from an event at
Augusta International Speedway on March 1,
1964. Well-fitted reproduction seats, carpet,
dash-pad and door panels. Cond: 2. NOT SOLD
AT $450,000. Why the car has a plaque from
an event that occurred a year before the car was
built is beyond me. Yet it did well in that region
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MECUM AUCTIONS • INDIANAPOLIS, IN
meet the reserve. Considering how well the others
did, they shouldn’t be too far off to make a
deal here.
a year later. Last seen at RM’s Monterey auction
in 2007, then being declared a no-sale at $290k
(ACC# 1570551). All of which gives me the impression
that the consignor, outside of SAAC
circles (or even in SCCA circles), is likely only
keen on letting it go if it’ll break the bank. Market-correct
bid this time, so back home it goes.
#F140-1965 SHELBY COBRA Dragonsnake
roadster. VIN: CSX2427. Yellow/black vinyl/
black leather. Odo: 7,543 miles. 289-ci V8, 4x2bbl,
4-sp. Bought new from Adams County Motors
of Gettysburg, PA, by brothers Don and Mike
Reimer of Gettysburg specifically for drag racing
at regional tracks. Restored by Steven Juliano
2007–09, attaining a Division 1 Premiere Award
at SAAC-34 in August 2009, with the highest
judged score in SAAC history up to that point. No
discernible signs of use inside or outside since
then. Only non-authentic item on whole car is a
Cobra Owners Club of America decal on windshield.
All other components are either original
to the car, period-correct used and refurbished
components, or NOS. Even dealer’s tag was restored
and put back on trunk lid as part of restoration.
If anything, the period graphics on the
body are almost too nice for mid-1960s materials.
Cond: 1.
#F136-1966 SHELBY COBRA 427
roadster. VIN: CSX3173. Silver Mink/
black leather. Odo: 8,325 miles. 427-ci V8, 2x4bbl,
4-sp. Fully documented from when it left
Shelby American to be sold by Archway Motors
Inc. of Baltimore, MD, for $6,398. Stunningly
restored by Steven Juliano in 2010, using all
NOS or original parts. Bare-body repaint back to
the correct Silver Mink after multiple colorchange
repaints. Tires are period-made Goodyear
Blue Streaks. Period High Performance
Motors license plate frame on the front YOM
1967 Washington, D.C., plate. Original dealer
tag put back on trunk lid, with a few light pits.
Rest of plating stunningly well redone. Light
surface rust on NOS exhaust pipes. Seats have a
light, pleasing wrinkling in leather from limited
use. Fire extinguisher mounted aft of shifter is
even an NOS accessory FoMoCo unit. Cond: 1-.
1
quality. Original Tasca Ford service decal masked
off on driver’s side shock tower. Clean and stock
undercarriage, without repop inspection markings.
Well-fitted reproduction interior soft trim.
Slight wear and soiling starting to set in seat
pleats. Original seat belts with yellowed tags.
Cond: 2.
NOT SOLD AT $1,400,000. One of five original
factory Dragonsnake Cobras built by Shelby
American, this car was special-ordered in this
color to match the 1964 T-bird that the brothers
used as their tow car. They did quite well with
this car, competing in A/Modified and AA/Modified
Production racing, making it to the Indianapolis
Nationals in 1965. After one of the
brothers decided to go back to college, their
father sold the car off, and it remained well
known in Shelby circles ever since. Of the four
Shelby Cobras that the late Steve Juliano’s estate
offered here, it was the only one that did not
SOLD AT $2,420,000. Juliano was so fixated
on putting NOS or original parts on his Cobras
that he’d likely fill the tires with 1966 smoggy
L.A. air if he could’ve. Since completed, it’s only
been seen once outside of his collection: SAAC37
at Watkins Glen in 2012. Its very presence
created quite a commotion within Cobra circles.
To quote SAAC Cobra Registrar Ned Scudder, it is
“so good, most concours judges don’t even understand
it.” Those of us who do truly understand
the terms “restored” versus “original”
versus “authentic” versus “concours quality” do
“get” this Cobra, and don’t find it surprising that
it brought what it did, becoming the secondhighest
sale here.
#F181-1968 SHELBY GT500 fastback. VIN:
8T02S14338001381. Candy Apple Red/black
vinyl. Odo: 61,614 miles. 428-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto.
Marti Report displayed with the car confirms it
was restored in recent years to match its original
configuration. Options include ps, front disc pb,
Sport Deck rear seat, Tilt-Away steering column
and push-button AM radio. Fitted with Shelby
10-spoke alloys with dull finish on reproduction
tires. Better-than-original, bare-body repaint,
with authentic red primer underbody. Door and
panel gaps are more attuned to original build
SOLD AT $88,000. 1968 GT500s have been
taking it on the chin for values as of late. Not to
be confused with GT500 KRs, but they have been
hearing something of a sucking sound also. With
the 428 Police Interceptor-powered GT500s,
they’re now starting to teeter on the $100k line.
If this seems like it was lightly bid, Exhibit A is
an equally nice blue 4-speed fastback that sold
(as in hammer fell and title transferred) a few
weeks later at Twin Cities Auctions for $108k
(ACC# 6905951). As such, this red slushbox
wasn’t bid too far under the current market,
making it a pretty good deal. Food for thought:
You might be able to pay less for an easier-tolocate
1968 GT500 than a modern 2020
GT500—let alone adding in dealership ADM
(Additional Dealer Markup) games.
#F184-1969 FORD MUSTANG GT coupe.
VIN: 9F01R125768. Black Jade/black vinyl. Odo:
85,875 miles. 428-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Per the
supplied Deluxe Marti Report, built as an internal
corporate engineering test car. Equipped with
front bench seat (a $32.44 option), visibility
group, ps, front disc pb, full tinted glass, AM/FM
stereo and deluxe seat belts. Concours-quality,
bare-body restoration done a few years ago, still
is in fabulous condition. Superb workmanship on
matte-black hood. Body tag reattached to door
with reproduction rivets after repaint. Reproduction
part-number tags on all glass. Engine bay
detailed to do well in MCA concours judging.
Retains all smog hardware. Reproduction Autolite
battery. Expertly installed reproduction interior
soft trim, showing no appreciable wear.
Clean undercarriage, correctly redone with no
flash rust. Cond: 1-. NOT SOLD AT $55,000. As
it was a company test car, one wonders if there
was some real-world testing done on Saturday
nights up and down Woodward Avenue. Black
September–October 2019 89
TOP 10
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MECUM AUCTIONS • INDIANAPOLIS, IN
MARKET MOMENT
1973 Ford F-100 Pickup
Jade is the perfect color for running stealth—
day or night. At night, it melts into the darkness;
during the day, it’s so bland and ugly that everybody
ignores it. Even if it wasn’t a test car, it’s
darn rare as a GT hard top with a Super Cobra
Jet (one of 138), plus 4-speed (one of 86), and
the only one built with a black front bench seat.
Then again, who really wants that combination—then
or now? It’s probably why it was sent
over as a test car, as a possible parts-bin cleanout.
It’s also part and parcel of why it only got
bid to a level this low.
Courtesy of Mecum Auctions
SOLD at $41,250
Mecum Auctions, Indianapolis, IN, May 17, 2019, Lot F111
VIN: F10HKS27097
G
not?
To highlight just how large the dis-
crepancy is, a search for sold 1970s Ford
pickups in the ACC Premium Auction
Database shows our subject F-100 tied
for the top spot with a 1976 model that
was offered in 2014, and both of them
sold for $41,250. That same search for
Chevy trucks gives me 89 examples that sold for more than $41k. What gives?
This top-selling Ford F-100 is no half-hearted project thrown together in three weeks. It’s
been through a frame-off restoration and built up with many go-fast parts — most notably
a 460 V8 bored 0.030-over with flat-top pistons, a hot roller cam, headers and a three-inch
exhaust system. Will it get up and move? Hell yes. To match the badass drivetrain, this pickup
now wears a menacing black paint job with oversized wheels, custom bench seat, updated stereo
and much more. All the work done looks good — someone spent some serious money here.
Why similarly or sometimes lesser-built GM trucks bring more money remains a mystery, but
it will likely keep being a trend. Maybe it is the sheer number of trucks GM produced, a preference
for their styling or part of a fad for
any pickup with a Bowtie on it. No matter
the reasoning, the longer these crazy prices
last, the better chance Ford truck owners
have of getting in on the action.
The ol’ Ford trucks might never reach
the $90k of the top-selling Chevys, but
more of them selling in this $40k to $50k
area wouldn’t be much of a surprise. This
F-100 is proof that there are FoMoCo fans
90 AmericanCarCollector.com
AmericanCarCollector.com
willing to pay up for a street pickup. A
— Chad Taylor
SOLD AT $85,250. While they did a pretty good
job at it, if it was restored to the “as delivered to
the original dealer” configuration and condition,
the seats and carpeting would have plastic sheeting
over them. Still, this was a very nice restoration
on a rarely seen car that most muscle-car
fans don’t much give a damn about. Usually,
they sell for a little less than the Torino equivalent—and
much less than the Mustang equivalent.
Mecum must have found the three or four
M trucks from the ’70s have
been achieving big prices at
auction for years now. Fords
just haven’t had the same
meteoric rise in values. Why
#F183-1970 MERCURY COUGAR Eliminator
2-dr hard top. VIN: 0F91Q528269. Competition
Blue/white & black vinyl. Odo: 39,213 miles.
428-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Marti Report shows it was
sold new by Germain Ford-Mercury of Columbus,
OH, with optional ps, power windows, center
console, tilt steering wheel, Décor group and
AM/8-track tape player. Concours-quality restoration
completed in recent years. In replicating
the “as delivered to the dealer” condition, the
chin spoiler is still packed in the trunk. Superb
body prep and paintwork. Excellent door fit and
panel gaps. Correct OEM sheen to chrome. Reproduction
part-number tags on all glass. Concours-quality
detailing on the motor, to include
all smog gear, inspection markings in ink and
reproduction Autolite battery. Well-fitted reproduction
seats, door panels, dashpad and headliner.
Cond: 1-.
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MECUM AUCTIONS • INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Ford performance enthusiasts who both appreciate
and could afford it. Well sold.
#F8.1-1974 FORD MUSTANG II Mach 1
fastback. VIN: 4F05Z399373. White/white vinyl.
Odo: 40,899 km. 2.8-L V6, 2-bbl, auto. U.S.
specification, sold new in the Milwaukee, WI,
sales region, but has a metric speedo. Factoryoptional
a/c. Average repaint done a few years
ago. Masking around matte-black areas nothing
to write home about, either. Doors gaps are all
over the place. Japanese parking decal on passenger’s
door glass. Presentable original
brightwork. “D” is loose on the front fascia Ford
letters. Aside from battery, coil and an old engine
repaint in black, it’s all stock under hood.
Motor is rather dull due to corrosion on exposed
metal, but it’s washed off. Good original interior—carpet
may be a recent replacement.
Newer gloss-black undercarriage paint throughout.
Cond: 3.
fit for replacement top. New seat and door panel
reproduction vinyl, in addition to new carpeting
and dashpad. Discolored and sun-faded vacuumplated
dashboard trim, getting progressively
worse towards driver’s side. Dull center-console
trim. Tidy and generally stock underhood, but
with off-the-shelf clamps, hoses, belts and battery.
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $35,750. This was both the first year
of the R/T package for the Coronet and the last
year of the “boxcar” B-body. As such, the ’67
Coronet R/T drop top is a bit rarer than most
folks think—especially real-deal ones like this.
Combined with good original colors and factoryinstalled
a/c (full tinted glass is one of the things
that helps confirm that, as Chrysler didn’t sell an
a/c-equipped car in the 1960s without it), it
helps explain this seemingly strong selling price.
SOLD AT $11,000. My best theory is that it sold
to a U.S. military armed forces member assigned
to Japan. And quit bashing Mustang IIs. Even if
they were based on the Pinto platform, they kept
the Mustang as a viable platform. Shrunk back
down to the smaller size of the original (rather
than becoming a more bloated, piggy 1974 Gran
Torino variant), they provided a more fuel-miserly
car exactly when Ford needed one (part of
why this was the third-best-selling Mustang ever,
behind 1965 and 1966), and have since become
a mainstay for street-rod front suspensions. This
one selling well at no reserve does show that
they are finally getting some respect, even if this
wasn’t the most stellar example.
MOPAR
#T17-1967 DODGE CORONET R/T convertible.
VIN: WS2L77117361. Bright red/white
vinyl/white vinyl. Odo: 26,620 miles. 440-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Original color and trim combo, per
original body tag. Factory-optional a/c, ps, pb,
power top and AM radio. Modern 15-inch reproduction
Magnum 500 wheels shod with Radial
T/As. Good trim-off repaint, and generally well
masked in door jambs. Doors sag slightly, so
slightly lifting them to latch them works best.
Still, door gaps are pretty good. Replated bumpers,
light pitting on vent window frames. Okay
hard top. VIN: BH2 3P9B141277. Sunfire Yellow/
yellow floral print vinyl/yellow vinyl & floralprint
inserts. Odo: 29,704 miles. 340-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Copy of the Monroney sticker from when it
was sold new by Goddard Motors of Jennings,
MO. Dealer demo car heavily loaded with not
just yellow floral Mod Top and yellow floral seat
inserts, but also Rallye Cluster group, light
group, pb, ps, a/c, full tinted glass, remote-control
driver’s side mirror, center console and AM/
FM radio. Light topical respray done very well
with no visible masking lines. Good door and
panel fit. Some light scuffing on window trim,
with good original chrome. Dealer tag still on
trunk-lid trim panel. Original Mod Top and Airtemp
decals in rear quarter windows in good
condition. Interior vinyl quite good. Several layers
of undercoating added over the years.
Cond: 2.
3
#F133-1969 PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA
Formula S Mod Top 2-dr
SOLD AT $440,000. Up until now, it was one of
those “Oh, that’s interesting” options, akin to
September–October 2019 91
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MECUM AUCTIONS • INDIANAPOLIS, IN
having a dog with three legs. As part of the Steve
Juliano estate, it had a $50k reserve. However,
this may have the widest bidding spread of a car
at auction in quite some time, as it opened at
$10k. That reserve was met in no time, and the
next thing we knew, it was over $100k. And kept
going…and going…and going…and going…
in mostly $10k steps, but never more than $15k,
until it was hammered sold. Nobody saw that
coming, although my sources indicate that the
buyer is a member of one of the wealthiest families
in the upper Midwest who really wanted it.
As such, don’t expect this to be repeated on any
of the other 900-plus Mod Top Barracudas that
were built. (See profile, p. 58.)
#F139-1969 DODGE DART Swinger
concept car 2-dr hard top. VIN:
LM23P9B188075. Maroon Candy/black vinyl.
Odo: 28,099 miles. 340-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Fabricated
by Alexander Brothers of Detroit for
Dodge. Modifications include a roof chop, recessed
rear valance with integral spoiler, custom
taillights, shaved door handles then using door
poppers in recessed grab alcoves alongside the
door seam (à la C6 and C7 Corvette), fabricating
a custom grille with dual centered fog lamps (à
la 1967 Shelby GT350/500), rectangular Cibie
headlights (à la anything cool out of Europe),
and a fake injector scoop on top of hood (à la JC
Whitney). Restored approximately a decade ago
for the late Steven Juliano. Superb paint and
bodywork, with a little gold in the pearl if the
light strikes it right. Stock restoration under the
hood, with original, yellowed washer bottle.
10
Bone-stock, well-restored interior. Clean undercarriage
with some paint detailing. Cond: 2-.
application. Reconditioned brightwork with some
light dings on door-top trim since the redo. Concours-quality
engine-bay detailing with a reproduction
Mopar battery that had to be on the
tender for most of the week (a modern battery
was waiting in the wings in the trunk). Clean,
authentically detailed undercarriage. All-reproduction
interior soft trim, with expert seat work,
yet light carpet wrinkling near console.
Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $110,000. Of the two Dart/Duster
show cars from the Juliano Estate. I preferred
the original execution of this one better, as the
chopped roof and slightly deeper rake of the
windshield belie its smaller size. It almost comes
off more as a modified 1967 Coronet than a
Dart. However, this one is starting to not age as
gracefully, thanks to being an older restoration.
This almost didn’t sell, as it barely made the
$100k reserve before hammering sold. The inhouse
estimate was $150k–$200k, yet I’m not
about to call it a good buy. It’s a reasonable buy
at best.
#F120-1970 PLYMOUTH HEMI
’CUDA convertible. VIN: BS27R0B305097.
Lemon Twist/black vinyl/tan vinyl. Odo:
26,313 miles. 426-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, auto. Broadcast
sheets and fender tags confirm the car was professionally
restored to its original configuration.
Options include Shaker hood with hold-down
pins, front disc pb, center console, body sill trim,
belt and deck moldings, plus radio and body
graphics delete. Superb body prep and paint
2
SOLD AT $1,980,000. One of 14 Hemi ’Cuda
drop-tops produced in 1970, of which nine had
automatic transmissions. This is also one of three
sold new in Canada, with the two known survivors
being built in Lemon Twist. With the type
and quantity of options this one had, I suspect it
was ordered by someone who knew what they
wanted as a fun day boulevard cruiser and could
afford to indulge. Nearly 50 years later, you
really need to be able to afford to indulge in
one. Despite that, when the reserve was lifted at
$1.8m, nobody wanted to cross that two-milliondollar
threshold and no further bids were tendered,
thusly hammering sold.
#F134-1970 PLYMOUTH HEMI
ROAD RUNNER Rapid Transit System
show-car 2-dr hard top. VIN: RM23R0A103740.
White, gold & black/black deluxe vinyl.
Odo: 1,717 miles. 426-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, auto. Modified
by Roman’s Chariot Shop in Cleveland, OH,
for use in Plymouth’s 1970 Rapid Transit System
show series. Period modifications include
molded-in rear spoiler, enlarged body side
scoops, flared rear wheelwells to fit oversized
aftermarket wheels with drag tires, custom paint,
custom one-piece taillight lens, shaved door handles
and custom grille with Cibie rectangular
headlights. While indicated miles are correct
from new, it was professionally restored back to
its show configuration in 2000. Superb paintwork—including
reproducing custom graphics.
Stock show-quality detailing under hood, only
with a modern battery. Signed next to fender tag
by Plymouth RTS show promoter Bob Larivee.
Interior still very presentable, with excellent original
vinyl. Cond: 2. SOLD AT $341,000. This
car was found by Steve Juliano in Kalamazoo,
4
92 AmericanCarCollector.com
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MI, in 1991. Story around it was that a pro athlete
from a Detroit team was given (or paid a
token amount for) the car, then sent it to a
speed shop to make it a dedicated drag-race car.
However, he was cut from the team and essentially
walked away from the car afterwards,
while work was in progress. Shy of the known-tobe-destroyed
Hemi ‘Cuda RTS show car, this is
arguably the most desirable of the three 1970
RTS show cars—Steve also having the other
one: Lot F141, the Duster. Mecum pretty much
had the RTS cars’ values dialed in, as their estimate
here was $250k–$400k. It opened at
$100k, taking $10k steps to $260k, where reserve
was met, then kept going in $10k steps
until sold. All things considered, for a one-off,
famous Hemi, I’d say the buyer did all right.
hard top. VIN: VS29H0B142254. Sublime Pearl/
white vinyl. Odo: 34,422 miles. 340-ci V8, 4-bbl,
4-sp. Originally modified by Byron Grenfel for
use as one of the 1970 Rapid Transit System
show cars, then extensively modified again by
him for the 1971 season. Restored in late 1990s
for Steve Juliano to its 1971 Rapid Transit System
configuration. Mods include exhaust exits
through rear bumper, brake-cooling ducts, dual
fuel fillers, vents over rear window, modified
hood and unique front fascia, with dual headlights.
Superb repaint with replicated show-car
graphics. Clean, expertly restored to stock under
hood, with no modifications. Heavily
undercoated, but with clean black paint on suspension
and driveline. Top-of-dash tachometer
and quad gauge pack mounted below dash done
as part of show-car modifications. Modern reproduction
seats, door panels, dashpad and carpeting,
all showing no apparent wear. Cond: 1-.
5
#F141-1970 PLYMOUTH DUSTER
Rapid Transit System show-car 2-dr
SOLD AT $264,000. When Juliano was first
made aware of the car, it was discovered abandoned
in a Detroit parking facility. Once he purchased
it, items found in the trunk would suggest
it had a rather colorful existence after it left
Chrysler (although a machete, ammunition and
women’s underwear sound like the typical contents
of a car from urban Detroit to me). Out of
all the Rapid Transit cars from the Juliano Collection,
this one with the pearl-green paint really
pops the most. It not only overshot Mecum’s
guesstimate at $150k–$200k, it sold for a little
more than the all-original ’71 Road Runner RTS
car. That was a bit surprising, but with one-off
cars like these, nuances like someone favoring
green pearl over orange pearl start to factor in,
although a great restoration finally trumped a
good original.
show-car 2-dr hard top. VIN: RM23N1G100016.
Orange Pearl/black vinyl. Odo: 1,295
miles. 383-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Original Chryslerissued
title. Heavily modified by Chuck Miller’s
Styline Custom, for use in the Rapid Transit System
show-car circuit in 1971: nose extended six
inches, tunnel scoops in hood, sunken trunk lid
with integral spoiler flush to rear fender peaks,
and vacuum-molded, Road Runner-head sidemarker
lights and grille ornament (mounted
crooked). Still in its original configuration from
when it was part of the tour, with 1,295 actual
miles. Light random cracking of (circa fall)
1970-applied paint. Lowered front suspension
(or torsion bars are sagging from additional
weight of modified nose). A bit on the scruffy
side under the hood, but generally original. Alloriginal
interior is in excellent condition.
Cond: 3+.
6
#F130-1971 PLYMOUTH ROAD
RUNNER Rapid Transit System
to $200k in short order, where the reserve was
met. It took a bit more work to eke out three
more bids to hammer it sold, coming up a bit
short from the auction house’s guesstimate of
$250k–$400k, but, as a one-off, it is what it is
and what it sells for is the market.
#T45.1-1978 DODGE RAMCHARGER Power
Wagon SUV. VIN: A10BE85168969. Gold &
white/tan vinyl. Odo: 19,825 miles. 318-ci V8,
2-bbl, auto. Recent, low-budget repaint, with
plenty of orange peel and sloppy masking. Door
hinges sag. Ill-fitting rear hatch, with even sloppier
masking in hatch jambs. Good workmanship
fitting period decals. Replated front bumper and
polished grille; dull plating on back bumper.
Aftermarket intake with 4-bbl carburetor and
open-element air cleaner on top of otherwise
stock engine wearing an older repaint. Original
brown metallic paint is visible on fender aprons,
cowl and bottom of hood. Moderate wear on
door-panel armrests. Seats (front and back) look
to have new seating surfaces on original backs
and sides. Modern replacement carpet. Dashpad
and padded glovebox lid don’t match. Factory
AM/FM radio. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $236,500. Some have referred to this
as the “chicken-head car,” although the roadrunner
isn’t a member of the chicken family of
birds—they’re considered a type of cuckoo in
ornithology circles. Stated to have been the late
Steven Juliano’s favorite item of all his cars and
automobilia, it is the only one of the Rapid Transit
cars essentially untouched from when it was
first created. As the first of the RTS cars to cross
the block, bidding opened at $100k and went up
SOLD AT $31,900. More of these seem to have
started surfacing in the market lately, but this
one really out-punted its coverage. It doubled
Mecum’s pre-sale estimate of $10k–$15k, which
I actually thought was spot-on. One can’t even
say bidders were wooed by glossy paint, as the
orange peel in a few places almost came off as
semi-gloss. Well, for those detractors out there
who still think vintage SUVs are a flash in the
pan, this shows there’s still plenty of fuel. Then
again, a number of vintage trucks were offered
right in a row on Thursday—most selling very
well—so maybe Mecum got just the right buyers
together at the right time. Or there was a twofor-one
special on Bud Light in the food court.
A
FOLLOW
ACC
September–October 2019 93
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LEAKE • TULSA, OK
Tulsa 2019
A well-restored Brittany Blue 1969 Ford Torino GT
was a best buy at $30,800
Leake
Tulsa, OK
June 6–8, 2019
Auctioneers: Tom
“Spanky” Assiter, Amy
Assiter
Automotive lots sold/
offered: 352/516
Sales rate: 68%
Sales total: $8,096,495
High sale: 1963
Chevrolet Corvette custom
Split-Window coupe,
sold at $126,500
Buyer’s premium:
10%, included in sold
prices
Fairlane Nationals 100-point car — 1969 Ford Torino GT 2-door hard top, sold at $30,800
Report and photos by Brett Hatfield
Market opinions in italics
• Consignors brought 39 Corvettes for buyers to choose
from, ranging from 1957 to 2016 model years
• Accessible buying, with 36% of sold cars selling for under
$10k
• Total sales jumped 28% over last year’s $6.3m total
T
he June 2019 Leake Auction Company sale in Tulsa was impressive for a
number of reasons, not the least of which was the venue. The River Spirit
Expo Center is nearly 450,000 square feet of floor space on two levels and
nearly a quarter of a mile long. To see this space filled wall-to-wall with
special-interest cars of all stripes is exciting, if a bit daunting. Even with this
much space, parking was snug, with well over 500 lots offered.
In 2018, Leake was purchased by Ritchie Bros., the world’s largest heavy-
equipment auctioneers. Joining the new owners was Gary Bennett, formerly the
Vice President of Consignments for Barrett-Jackson, and Muffy Bennett, Gary’s
wife, also a former Barrett employee, having previously managed their Dealership
Division.
Bennett’s fingerprints on Leake are obvious. The stage is an elevated platform,
with a raised auctioneer’s box behind it. There is video coverage from a boom-operated
camera rig adjacent to the exit ramp. The bidders’ pit is flanked on three sides
by bleacher-style seating. A concert-quality lighting rig hangs from the ceiling. A
massive American flag hangs above it all, perfectly situated for all to see during the
singing of the national anthem prior to the sale’s start each day. Sounding familiar?
94 AmericanCarCollector.com
About the impressive selection, Bennett said, “I’d
rather have 20 $50,000 cars or 10 $100,000 cars than
one $1,000,000 car. It gives us more opportunities to
cater to our customers.”
Leake packed the expo center with 516 cars, trucks,
motorcycles and RVs. Although there were no milliondollar
lots on offer, there were show-quality restorations,
beautifully built hot rods and resto-mods, nearly
40 Corvettes and numerous exotics. There were a
handful of low-mile, gorgeous Buick Grand Nationals.
The high seller for the show was a 1963 Corvette
Split-Window resto-mod coupe, featuring a 525-hp
LS engine, 5-speed, modern suspension, brakes and
Vintage Air, which found a new home for $126,500.
Veteran auctioneers Tom “Spanky” Assiter, his
reading glasses perpetually perched upon his forehead,
and wife, Amy Assiter, both also formerly with
Barrett-Jackson, kicked off the sale Thursday. With
more than 48% of the lots selling at no reserve, sales
were brisk.
“The sale exceeded all our expectations. We had
the most no-reserve lots we’ve have had at any auction.
Post-bid sales were strong through IronPlanet’s
Marketplace-E online forum,” Bennett said. A
QUICK TAKE
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LEAKE • TULSA, OK
GM
#7881-1958 CADILLAC ELDORADO Biarritz
convertible. VIN: 58E024293. Alpine White/
white vinyl/red & white leather. Odo: 61,786
miles. 365-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Older restoration
that is holding up quite well. Loaded with full
host of power accessories and a/c. The interior,
although original, is in a condition incongruous
with the rest of the car. Steering wheel has faded
to an off-white color. Seat backs show plentiful
cracking from age. Paint is still glossy, albeit
with some swirl present. Chrome shows minimal
patina. Stainless is well polished. Turbine-style
wheel covers are bright. Engine bay is clean, with
correct finishes throughout. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $16,500. It’s tough to beat a 421 with
a 4-speed, and that’s what likely found this car a
new home. The restoration, if it could be called
that, was done either hurriedly or by someone as
a freshman effort. Still, mid-1960s Pontiacs have
an undeniable mystique, and having a running,
complete example you could enjoy while improving
may have been just what the doctor ordered.
#7411-1965 CHEVROLET IMPALA SS 2-dr
hard top. VIN: 166375J169743. Madeira Maroon/
white vinyl. Odo: 3,225 miles. 327-ci V8,
4-bbl, 4-sp. Single repaint in original color is
older, and showing its age. Checking present on
trunk lid and hood, light haze in places. Chrome
still quite presentable. Engine bay clean and
correct, with chalk marks on firewall. Original
white interior is in good nick, with very light
patina showing on door-panel trim. Tilt wheel,
power steering, power brakes and a day/night
mirror add a bit of luxury to this SS Impala.
Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $91,300. Last seen at the November
2018 Leake Dallas auction, where the high bid
of $87,000 didn’t meet reserve (ACC#
6889225). Number 418 of 815 produced for the
’58 model year. This one was pretty, to be sure,
but the interior seemed out of place with the
restoration. Top money here was well below
book value of $136k. One can’t help but wonder
if a decent freshening would have helped bring a
better bid. As it is, no one got hurt here.
#4461-1965 PONTIAC CATALINA 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 252375C131638. Capri Gold/ Parchment
vinyl. Odo: 93,428 miles. 421-ci V8, 4-bbl,
4-sp. This paint job shows overspray, inclusions
and poor panel gaps. Engine bay is dirty, reflecting
same level of workmanship present on the
outside. Heavy pitting covers the taillight bezels.
There is a hole in the passenger’s side rear
fender top, likely for an absent antenna. Saving
grace here may be the nicely reupholstered seats,
but the gauge bezels have heavy pitting throughout.
Pontiac eight-lug steelies are always cool
and help the appearance. Cond: 3-.
wrinkling on door panels. Red replacement seat
belts add a splash of color. Trunk has correct
liner, spare. Plentiful documentation. Cond: 2-.
NOT SOLD AT $34,000. ACC Pocket Price
Guide median value for a ’66 Goat ragtop is
$57,500, with a 35% add for Tri-Power, for a
total of $77,625. The high bid on this example
wasn’t half that. The question is, what is it worth
to be able to enjoy a slick, documented, 242code
GTO convertible, albeit with a replacement
engine? The answer, in this case, is more than
$34k.
#7371-1968 CHEVROLET IMPALA 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 164478J313801. Grotto Blue/blue
vinyl. Odo: 34,704 miles. 327-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto.
Claimed original miles. Repaint features plentiful
orange peel and inclusions. Inconsistent body
panel gaps, particularly at trunk and hood. Tidy
original interior has an aftermarket radio occupying
the space vacated by the original. Cheap
steering-wheel cover. Driver’s side of bench starting
to split on seat bottom. Aftermarket gauges
mounted beneath dash. Engine bay is clean, with
factory a/c. Trunk is as-new. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $23,100. This one checked a lot of
boxes for mid-1960s American cool-original: SS
car, 327, 4-speed, buckets, very original, well
optioned, even the cool manifold pressure
gauge. A relative bargain considering median
value is $29,500.
#758-1966 PONTIAC GTO convertible. VIN:
242676K120119. Montero Red/white vinyl/white
vinyl. Odo: 99,300 miles. 400-ci V8, 3x2-bbl,
4-sp. Attractive color combo. Shiny paint has
light orange peel, towel marks. Chrome appears
to have been recently refinished. Stainless is
nicely polished. NOM 400-cube motor from a
later Pontiac, topped by a ’66 Tri-Power setup,
resides in an orderly engine compartment. White
vinyl interior shows minimal wear, but some
NOT SOLD AT $12,000. Low miles couldn’t
offset the poor paint job and Pep Boys interior
mods. Decent for a weekend cruiser, but not
ready for prime time. High bid was well short of
$20k median value, but there was nothing here
to drive it higher.
#847-1970 BUICK SKYLARK GS Stage 1
2-dr hard top. VIN: 446370H163586. Bamboo
Cream/brown vinyl/brown vinyl. 455-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Paint finish is top notch, with an obvious
effort made in prep and execution. Brown vinyl
roof done with a similar eye toward quality.
Chrome bumpers have been nicely refinished and
stainless is well polished. Brown vinyl seats look
fresh, but the driver’s side door panel is wrinkly.
Engine bay is spotless, with all correct Stage 1
96 AmericanCarCollector.com
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LEAKE • TULSA, OK
components in place. Extensive documentation
from new. Condition is much as it was the last
time I saw this car. Cond: 2+. NOT SOLD AT
$33,500. Having made four appearances at
collector-car auctions in the past 18 months, this
GS was last seen at the December 2018 Mecum
Kansas City sale, where it failed to find new ownership
at $37k (ACC# 6888591)—the same
price as its high bid in the preceding November
at Leake’s Dallas sale (ACC# 6889223). Priceguide
median value for a 1970 Buick GS is
$26,500, but a Stage 1 books at $55k. This example,
having been born a simple GS but upgraded
cosmetically and mechanically to a Stage
1, drew a high bid that was closer to the lower
figure. The restoration showed a significant investment
but hasn’t been able to attract a high
bid beyond the upper-$30k mark.
#718-1970 CADILLAC DEVILLE convertible.
VIN: F0260140. Sable Black/white vinyl/white
leather, black & white cloth. Odo: 63,352 miles.
472-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Repaint shows ample
orange peel. Chrome bumpers show minimal
patina. Stainless trim could benefit from polishing.
New white convertible top is striking against
the black body. Interior appears to have been
hastily installed and needs a good cleaning. Engine
compartment is complete but could stand
some detailing. There is potential here, and a bit
more attention could yield a more remarkable
result. Cond: 3.
unit is fitted. Engine bay is correct but a bit dusty.
A solid third-generation Camaro. Cond: 2-.
CORVETTE
SOLD AT $9,680. In 1984, Chevy made 100,412
Camaro Z/28s. Most of these mullet-mobiles
were thrashed, wrecked, rotted out and ended
up populating either the local trailer park or
junkyard. Very few were treated with any respect
at all, and as such, not many survived in anything
other than deplorable condition, littered
with fast-food wrappers and Marlboro Light cartons.
Despite production numbers that would
normally make this anything but rare, this startlingly
good example was a bit of a find. With
average values around $12k, this was a solid
buy.
#520-1987 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL
coupe. VIN: 1G4GJ1172HP449546. Black/gray
& black cloth. Odo: 7,287 miles. 3.8-L turbocharged
V6, auto. Light swirl marks are all that
detract from the shiny black finish of this Grand
National. Glass, weatherstrip and trim are all
as-new. Engine compartment is missing the turbo
scroll housing cover. Interior shows no signs of
wear, with towels placed over floor mats in front.
Obvious care has been taken to keep this one as
new and original as possible. Accompanied by all
sales literature, documentation, window sticker,
build sheet, etc. Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $11,550. Last seen at the February
2019 Leake OKC sale, where it failed to find new
ownership at $19,000 (ACC# 6899330). The
high bid, spot-on median value, was reflective of
the condition. Unfortunately, the seller didn’t let
the car go at the previous auction.
#120-1984 CHEVROLET CAMARO Z/28
coupe. VIN: 1G1AP87G6EL207668.
White/Camel cloth. Odo: 78,900 miles. 305-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Plentiful orange peel marks this as
original 1980s GM paint, but it is shiny and appears
to have received good care. Decal stripes
show none of the typical cracking due to exposure.
Gold-tone Z/28 wheels are damage-free.
Interior better than good, showing very little
wear. Seat-belt guide on the headrest looks awful,
but they all did. Recent aftermarket head
NOT SOLD AT $37,000. Last seen at the November
2018 Leake Dallas sale, where it found a
new home for $41,800 (ACC# 6883865). With
the recent spate of low-mile Grand Nationals
and GNXs setting price records, it is little wonder
the owner of this one tried to capitalize. This
final-year-of-production GN was nearly pristine.
Price bid here is well north of guide values, but
down from just last fall, which is probably why it
ended up in the unsold column.
#789-1960 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 00867S107391. Roman Red & Ermine
White/white vinyl, Roman Red hard top/red vinyl.
283-ci 290-hp fuel-injected V8, 4-sp. Older
restoration still holding up well. Paint no longer
fresh, but quite decent. Trunk lid and soft-top
cover don’t line up as they should. Steel gasfiller-door
radius doesn’t match fender (common
and easily remedied). Other panels have similar
woes. Headlight bezels align with fender top trim
better than most. Hard-top drip rails show some
corrosion. Glass is clear, without excessive pepper.
Chrome could be better, with light patina
present. Engine bay correct, cleanish. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $77,000. As I have owned this same
vintage and color combo Corvette for 31 years, it
is easy for me to pick on this one. The restoration
was decent, but older, and far from
concours. This was a quality driver, one that
could be enjoyed without guilt. The buyer got a
steal, as this one last crossed the block in March
of 2008, when it sold at the West Palm Beach
Barrett-Jackson sale for $123,200 (ACC#
1640050).
#813-1967 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 194677S115390. Rally Red/black
vinyl/red vinyl. Odo: 19,901 miles. 427-ci 435-hp
V8, 3x2-bbl, 4-sp. Very clean example. Only flaw
of note is a small blemish at base of windshield
on passenger’s side. Chrome is in great shape,
while stainless is decent. Heavy documentation,
complete owner history, tank sheet, multiple
NCRS Top Flight awards: Performance Verification,
three-time NCRS Duntov Mark of Excellence,
three-time Bloomington Gold award. Heavily
optioned with transistor ignition, 4.11 Positraction,
close-ratio 4-speed, AM/FM radio, tinted
glass, F41 special suspension, power brakes, side
exhaust and both tops. Cond: 2+.
September–October 2019 97
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LEAKE • TULSA, OK
NOT SOLD AT $285,000. An Internet search
revealed this car was being sold by Corvette expert
and guru Roy Sinor. It would have been
tough to find one in markedly better condition,
or with more documented history than this example.
That said, the high bid here was more
than double median value, but well short of the
$400k price advertised on Mr. Sinor’s website.
#5521-1977 CHEVROLET CORVETTE coupe.
VIN: 1Z37L7S448459. Corvette Bright Yellow/
brown leather. Odo: 71,473 miles. 350-ci, 180hp
V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Original paint just beginning
to show signs of age, but only if caught in the
right light. Typical “love kiss” on the soft nose
shows spider-web cracks radiating from contact
point. Engine bay is cleanish. Dark saddle
leather interior shows light wear on driver’s side
seat bolster. Some wear present on leather steering
wheel. Dash-top speaker grille has cracked
with age, exposure. Aluminum slotted KelseyHayes
wheels are in good nick. Cond: 3+.
are the kayak-like ergonomics of the C4s. With a
generous cargo area, comfortable seats and
prices that have nearly found their low ebb, the
C5 represents performance with practicality. As
median price-guide value is $19,500, and condition
on this example well above average, the
price paid was a decent value.
FOMOCO
SOLD AT $11,000. Having owned the L82 twin
to this car, I had some sentimental feelings
about it. Bright Yellow can be polarizing but
works well on these Shark body curves. As one of
the most collected cars in the U.S., parts for
these ’Vettes are plentiful, and usually inexpensive.
Earlier third-generation Corvettes have
begun to climb, but it remains to be seen if the
later, emissions-choked, soft-bumper Corvettes
will gain traction. This example sold right on the
money.
#740-2004 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 1G1YY32G645115873. Black/black
cloth/black leather. Odo: 10,800 miles. 5.7-L,
350-hp fuel-injected V8, auto. For factory paint,
the finish here is very shiny. Some swirl marks
present, as they’re difficult to hide on black. Door
jambs as shiny as the rest of the car. Black
leather interior shows only minor creasing on the
driver’s side seat bolster. Engine bay is similarly
spotless. Polished aluminum wheels are curbrash-free.
Black cloth soft top rounds out the
triple-black theme, showing only minor creasing
from being down. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT
$23,100. Fifth-generation Corvettes are widely
considered some of the easiest to live with. Gone
98 AmericanCarCollector.com
#754-1964 FORD THUNDERBIRD convertible.
VIN: 4Y85Z165861. Rangoon Red/white
vinyl/white vinyl. Odo: 7,569 miles. 390-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Highly optioned with 390, auto,
power top, brakes, steering, windows and locks,
Swing-Away steering column, removable tonneau
cover, engine dress-up kit, Continental kit,
luggage rack, dual spotlights and dual outside
mirrors. Rangoon Red paint has minimal buffer
swirl. Chrome and stainless both polished well.
Glass shows little sign of pepper. Interior presents
as-new, with full houndstooth liner in trunk/
top well. Engine bay is spotless. Sports five
Kelsey-Hayes chrome wires with whitewalls.
Cond: 2.
SOLD AT $31,350. Last seen at the Mecum
Indianapolis sale in May of this year, where it
did not meet reserve at $35,000 (ACC#
6903551). This was a very nice driver in an attractive
color. With ACC median value of $28k,
someone went home with a sharp little Mustang
at a market-beating price. Well bought.
#8101-1969 FORD MUSTANG Boss 429
fastback. VIN: 9F02Z159821. Candy Apple
Red/black vinyl. Odo: 71,084 miles. 429-ci V8,
4-bbl, 4-sp. Bodywork shows good prep and execution,
with only minor towel marks. Panel
gaps are better than new. Chrome bumpers
nicely refinished, stainless trim well polished.
Magnum 500 wheels present as-new. No visible
wear on black vinyl interior; even has stock AM
radio in place. Claimed numbers-matching engine
detailed with factory labels and markings.
Loads of paperwork included: Kar Kraft quality
checklists, letter from Ford, two shipping invoices,
broadcast sheets and Deluxe Marti Report.
Cond: 2+.
only two small touch-ups on the leading edge of
the hood. Panel gaps are uniform. Chrome bumpers
have been replated. Stainless is well polished.
Glass clear and without chips or pepper.
Engine bay is clean, with dress-up kit. Pony interior
shows no signs of wear. Dash houses an
aftermarket stereo sized to fit the original’s spot,
with speakers in formed kick panels. Convertible
top appears recent, without fading. Cond: 2-.
NOT SOLD AT $34,000. I don’t think I have
ever seen another Thunderbird as heavily optioned
as this one was. With median value at
$26,500, the high bid offered here was above
the fray, but so was this car. The restoration had
to cost multiples of the best bid. With the condition,
options, and documentation, the seller had
little choice but to hold out for more.
#831-1965 FORD MUSTANG convertible.
VIN: 5F08C293008. Caspian Blue/black vinyl/
black vinyl. Odo: 9,979 miles. 289-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Shiny Caspian Blue paint is attractive, with
NOT SOLD AT $170,000. This Boss ’9 has
shown up in four auctions in the past two years,
most recently at the January 2019 Mecum Kissimmee
sale, where it failed to trade hands at
$200k (ACC# 6891015). Claimed to be a numbers-matching
engine, but previously noted as a
Page 98
LEAKE • TULSA, OK
replacement block. This was a high-quality restoration
accompanied by ample documentation.
It may never reach median book value of $242k,
but should be able to get closer than this.
#7511-1969 FORD TORINO GT 2-dr
hard top. VIN: 9K44S157139. Brittany
Blue/black vinyl/black vinyl. Odo: 2,173 miles.
428-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Frame-off restoration
done to a very high standard. Brittany Blue paint
is nearly flawless. Chrome and stainless both
gleam. The 428 Cobra Jet-filled engine bay is
mint and correct. Interior presents as-new.
Scored as 100-point car in the Gold Concours
Division at the Fairlane Nationals. Cond: 1-.
the past few years, but no amount of popularity
could overcome the inconsistencies present here.
The seller should have taken the high bid, as
correcting these issues would likely offset any
additional gain.
#4571-1976 FORD F-100 pickup. VIN: F10HNB53761.
Indio Tan/tan vinyl, brown cloth.
Odo: 39,163 miles. 390-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Original
paint has orange peel and could be shinier,
but seems on par for 43-year-old, single-stage
pickup paint. Bed looks to have been repainted,
features aftermarket bed rails. Engine bay is
neat, correct. Bench seat appears as nearly new,
possibly re-covered in original fabric. Original
carpets are a deep pile, in good condition. Steering
wheel has age cracks at cross bar. Equipped
with power steering, brakes and a/c. Wheels
come from a newer-vintage Ford truck. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $11,000. 1987 marked the first year
for the Mustang ASC/McLaren, after the demise
of the Mercury Capri variant in 1986. Ford would
send specially prepped Mustang coupes to American
Sunroof Company for conversion to a 2-seat
roadster. The conversions gave the ’Stang a custom
interior, body moldings, front air dam, rear
spoiler and wheels. Production was limited to
1,806 units over the 1987–90 run. This was a
great way to distinguish yourself from the runof-the-mill
Mustang GT ragtop. The example
seen here was a killer deal for a true limited
production car, selling for low-end Mustang GT
money.
SOLD AT $30,800. Last seen at the February
2019 Leake OKC sale, where it failed to find new
ownership at $29,500 (ACC# 6899600). This
was a stunning restoration, easily worth several
times the high bid. When I spoke with Muffy
Bennett, New Sector Development Director for
Ritchie Bros./Leake, we were both shocked it
went so cheaply. Someone stole this. Very well
bought, indeed.
#4881-1974 FORD BRONCO utility. VIN:
U15GLT89094. Candy Apple Red/white steel
hard top/white vinyl. Odo: 86,176 miles. 302-ci
V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp. Shiny Candy Apple Red with
white hard top is an attractive combo from a few
steps away, but closer inspection reveals driverquality
paint in need of buffing. Driver’s door
will not close fully, and protrudes at the bottom
three-quarters of an inch. The matching-numbers
drivetrain resides in a cleanish engine bay.
Chrome on mirrors and bumpers is hazy, and the
passenger’s side mirror is loose. Cond: 3.
#5411-1994 FORD MUSTANG SVT Cobra
Indy Pace Car convertible. VIN: 1FALP45D9RF158574.
Rio Red/tan canvas/tan leather.
Odo: 15,326 miles. 5.0-L fuel-injected V8, 5-sp.
Number 522 of 1,000 produced, this example has
covered only 15,326 miles from new. Glossy red
paint has had obvious care, shows minimal swirl.
Driver’s seat shows light creasing. Carpets are
clean. No fading present. Aftermarket stereo
fitted. Engine compartment shows as-new.
Wheels are free from damage. One very clean
Cobra. Cond: 2+.
NOT SOLD AT $21,000. This was a very wellmaintained
truck. Given their intended use, it is
unusual to find utility vehicles like this in this
condition. It may have been transportation for
someone who wanted a pickup, but never used
the bed. This seemed like a solid bid for a clean
truck in a regrettable color.
#1281-1987 FORD MUSTANG ASC
McLaren convertible. VIN: 1FABP40E3
HF248295. Scarlet Red/black vinyl/light gray &
dark gray leather. Odo: 26,027 miles. 5.0-L fuelinjected
V8, auto. Number 390 of 1,806 produced.
Shiny red paint looks good from a
distance, but up close you can see fading around
the soft-top ring on rear deck. Paint fraught with
swirl marks and touch-ups. Factory antenna replaced
with a flexible rubber model. Two-tone
gray perforated leather shows some wear. Engine
bay could do with a bit of detailing. Not
bad, but has seen a little use. Cond: 3.
NOT SOLD AT $17,000. The top bid here fell
well short of median book value for a car that
was nearly mint. The seller had little reasonable
choice but to hold out for a better bid next time.
#7401-2005 FORD THUNDERBIRD Anniversary
Edition convertible. VIN: 1FAHP60A15Y105770.
Torch Red/black canvas/black leather.
Odo: 49,995 miles. 3.9-L fuel-injected V8, auto.
Paint has plenty of towel marks throughout.
Appears to have had a less-than-stellar repaint
done on the rear bumper. Headlight lenses are
beginning to fog. Black canvas top shows some
NOT SOLD AT $30,000. These first-generation
Broncos have been white-hot in the market for
100 AmericanCarCollector.com
BEST
BUY
BEST
BUY
Page 99
LEAKE • TULSA, OK
fading. Passenger’s side rear tire is flat. Black
leather interior shows creases on seat bolsters,
but no excessive wear. Cond: 3. SOLD AT
$10,450. Ford’s 11th generation revamp of the
Thunderbird featured love-it-or-hate-it styling
from the drawing board of Jack Telnack. Based
on the DEW platform also used for the Lincoln
LS, Jaguar S-type and Jaguar XF, the final iteration
of the T-bird was produced from 2002 to
2005, with just over 68,000 copies built. It had
the dubious distinction of being included in Car
and Driver’s 2009 list of “The 10 Most Embarrassing
Award Winners in Automotive History.”
MOPAR
#7791-1969 DODGE CHARGER R/T SE 2-dr
hard top. VIN: XS29L9B178343. White/black
vinyl/black leather. Odo: 2,771 miles. 440-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Nut-and-bolt restoration features
glossy white paint done to a decent standard,
with exception of a trio of tiny inclusions at base
of driver’s side A-pillar. Engine compartment tidy
and correct, with factory a/c in place. Chrome and
stainless both shiny, polished. It appears someone
with mud on their shoes moved the car, as
there is a significant quantity of dirt in driver’s
footwell. One button on the driver’s seat appears
to have been ripped off during ingress/egress.
Balance of the interior looks to have been recently
restored. Cond: 3+.
show-quality, but likely as good as or better than
new. Engine bay is spotless and correct. Undercarriage
is well detailed. Interior is as spartan as
when new, but without wear of any kind. This
one looks newly minted. Cond: 2.
NOT SOLD AT $63,000. A rare R/T SE, this was
nicely equipped with a/c, leather and the legendary
440 Magnum. With price-guide median
value for a 440 R/T SE hovering right around the
$71k mark, the buyer was wise to hold out for
more.
AMERICANA
#4471-1946 WILLYS CJ-2A utility. VIN:
36416. Lochinvar Green/gray vinyl. Odo: 209
miles. 134-ci I4, 1-bbl, 3-sp. This second-production-year
Willys has been restored to a high
standard, with some minor liberties in personal
taste taken. The standard speedo is fitted, but
ancillary gauges with chrome bezels have replaced
the plain-Jane originals. Paint is not
NOT SOLD AT $8,500. Bearing a strong resemblance
to the military Willys MB, the CJ-2A was
Willys-Overland’s attempt to capitalize on the
popularity of the wartime workhorse. Minor
changes to the grille and headlights distinguish
the civilian version from the military, but the
4-cylinder Go Devil powerplant was the same.
High bid on this was well below median, for an
example far beyond middle-of-the-pack in condition.
The seller was wise to hold out for more.
A
September–October 2019 101
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
Top-selling 1968 Shelby GT500 also ranks as a best buy
Back to the 50’s
Twin Cities
Auctions
St. Paul, MN
June 22, 2019
Auctioneers: Gary
Dehler, Kurt Warner
Automotive lots sold/
offered: 74/119
Sales rate: 62%
Sales total: $1,532,758
High sale: 1968 Shelby
GT500 fastback, sold at
$108,000
Buyer’s premium: 8%,
$400 minimum, included
in sold prices
It’s not often that one can call the top-selling car at an auction well bought — 1968 Shelby GT500 fastback,
sold at $108,000
Report and photos by B. Mitchell Carlson
Market opinions in italics
• Increase in total sales over last year by 4% on 53 fewer
lots
• Buyers could choose from 37 Chevrolets or 29 Fords,
making up 55% of the lots
• Highest sell-through rate (62%) since 2015 (64%)
T
win Cities Auctions showed this year that one should never get too comfortable
with the location and manner in which an auction house conducts an
event.
Just when they had their only auction of the year dialed in at the Back to
the 50’s vintage-car event at the Minnesota State Fairground, the roof of the
building they’ve always used (the historic Cattle Building) had collapsed from snow
load in February, and was still being repaired in June during the show. As such,
Twin Cities Auctions had to relocate down the street to the Catholic High Schoolsponsored
Miracle of Birth building. Auction company principal Ron Christenson
and his crew staged it as primarily the auction arena, with a few of the headline cars
parked on one end. The rest of the cars were parked in the adjacent sheep and poultry
buildings, and a few added towards the end of the auction were in the corridors
of the Warner Coliseum (which was staged for an equestrian event a few days later).
With more buildings to park cars and less square footage in those buildings, Twin
Cities scaled back the auction to one day (Saturday) and initially limited consignments
to 100 cars. Yet by the time the last one crossed the block, it was the 119th car.
102 AmericanCarCollector.com
Despite the difficulties, and even with fewer cars
crossing the block, the auction actually increased
gross sales by over $63k. The sell-through rate
increased by 8%, and the cars on average sold for more
this year — showing an overall increase in the quality
of consignments more than the market moving up.
Leading those sales was a 1968 Shelby GT500 fastback,
its $108,000 price exactly doubled last year’s top
sale, no doubt helping with this year’s sales increase.
With Ron Christenson and a lot of his staff being
Blue Oval fans, it’s little surprise that this event brings
in a lot of Ford products. This year, there was at least
one example from all four brands that were sold in the
U.S. There were also multiple examples of GM performance
cars and Mopar muscle, mixed in with a variety
of pickups and a few of the Independents — even from
the pre-war era.
In theory, Twin Cities should be able to get back
into their previous digs in the Cattle Building next
year under a new roof. However, Christenson stated
that he and the staff liked the way this worked out, so
I think that this might become the venue. However,
we’ll have to wait and see if I have 20/20 foresight for
2020.A
QUICK TAKE
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
CLASSIC
#62-1933 CHEVROLET CB pickup. VIN:
1CB0646874. Red & black/black vinyl. Odo: 32
miles. Had a 2010 frame-off restoration, with
new cab wood framing. Fitted with a 1932 Chevy
Deluxe car hood (as truck hoods used the same
louvered hoods from 1931 to ’33). Aftermarket
duck hood ornament, with light-to-moderate
pitting. Modern chrome aftermarket locking gas
cap. Dual sidemount spare tires. Generally good
paint application. Foam pipe insulators around
rolled-over box ends. Refinished box wood with
black-painted skid strips. Generally tidy engine
bay—even if block has some surface rust. Blackpainted
chassis, with some flash rust on baremetal
components. Seat well reupholstered, even
if it’s not quite stock. Aftermarket horn button
clamped to steering column. Cond: 3+.
years ago, still looks quite nice. All chrome replated
and all stainless, plus alloy trim, refurbished
or replaced as needed. Engine recently
repainted and generally dressed up, looking
stock. Engine-pad VIN obscured by irrelevant
numbers and letters. Well-fitted reproduction
interior soft trim, showing only minimal wear.
Custom-made, vinyl, center armrest with cupholders.
Cond: 3+.
now yellow and heavily scratched one. Cond: 3-.
SOLD AT $6,804. A mechanical bonehead will
ruin a perfectly good Corvair in short order. “You
don’t need those metal cover things over the
bottom of the engine—they’re just a pain in the
ass.” Ahem, yes you need them—it’s the engine’s
heat-regulation system. Give this a couple
of seasons of running around to cruise nights
and that body filler will be cracking all over the
place. On top of that, this is one of the few latemodel
Corvair drop-tops that I’ve ever seen with
the standard 3-speed transmission paired with
the standard 95-hp engine—even most 95s got
the optional 4-speed. Well sold, as being offered
at no reserve should’ve been enough of a warning.
SOLD AT $15,660. While the guy who restored
this took a bit of editorial license with
the hood, the 1932 grille is actually correct, as
Chevy tended to use the previous car grille on
light-duty trucks in the early 1930s. A ’33
Chevy pickup is one of those vehicles that time
has consumed most all of, so one that surfaces
restored to some level is quite a find. Now being
sold by the widow of the restorer (who
owned it for four decades); bidding opened at
$7k, with the reserve being met at $13,500. It
took two more bids to get it bought as a truck
that may not be perfectly stock but is one that’ll
be hard to duplicate. All parties involved did
well here.
GM
#110-1964 CHEVROLET IMPALA 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 41847J186917. Ermine White/aqua
vinyl & nylon. Odo: 88,099 miles. 283-ci V8,
2-bbl, auto. Retains original warranty card and
booklet, showing that it was sold new by Whiting
Motors of Livingston, MT, on January 20, 1964.
Retrofitted in recent years with modern a/c, dualmaster-cylinder
power brakes, electronic ignition,
high-volume water pump, retro-look AM/FM/
cassette deck stereo and aftermarket dual exhaust.
High-quality trim-off repaint done a few
104 AmericanCarCollector.com
SOLD AT $24,840. It wouldn’t take a whole lot
to go back to bone stock on this Impala, but with
the quality of the work done on it and considering
that what was done makes it more drivable
in the 21st century, why change it? Bidding here
started at $15k, from three different bidders. As
such, it had no problem hitting the $23k reserve,
and garnered a few more bids beyond that to
sell. If these chubby-cheek-looking ’64s are your
thing, you can certainly do worse, and would’ve
only done better if it was originally a 327- or
409-powered car.
#75-1965 CHEVROLET CORVAIR Monza
convertible. VIN: 105675W271914. Red/black
vinyl/black vinyl. Odo: 16,439 miles. 164-ci H6,
2x1-bbl, 3-sp. Average-to-passable trim-masked,
color-change repaint—on the outside. Poor
masking around engine bay, with plenty of
overspray on hood hinges and prop, with a
masking line that arcs up from between hood
hinges to top of drip rail—readily exposing
original Crocus Yellow paint. Hood set back down
while the paint was wet, with two splotches from
the landing pads in the paint. Runs out passably
well but is missing the lower heat shields. Trunk
lid markedly bowed upwards. Body filler in rear
quarters, and magnets don’t stick to the base of
windshield. Older interior kit adequately fitted.
Top might be original, as it needs a good cleaning
and new plastic backlight to replace the
#111-1967 CHEVROLET CAMARO RS coupe.
VIN: 124377L144018. Bolero Red/black vinyl/
black vinyl. Odo: 1,904 miles. 327-ci V8, 4-bbl,
4-sp. Claimed to be a “California car” in the lot
description, with a blue plate displayed but no
copies of registrations. Original window sticker
and Protect-O-Plate show it was sold new by
Freed Chevrolet of Hastings, MN, with ps, pb,
center console, interior décor group, bumper
guards, wheel covers, tinted windshield, lamp
group, push-button AM radio and Powerglide.
The last item has now been swapped out with a
“Sagana” 4-speed stick shift (we can’t make this
up). A 1966 300-hp Corvette 327 displaces the
original 210-hp, base-level 327 this car was built
with. At least they put in multi-leaf rear springs
(even with traction bars). Rather good repaint,
claiming to retain the original top and interior.
Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $33,502. “California car” my ass. It
may have been built at the Van Nuys assembly
plant, but it spent more time on a rail car heading
to Minnesota than it ever did in the Golden
State. This sounds more like the shtick one of the
local higher-end dealers used to play up here,
where he’d hang a set of California license plates
on any car he put through an auction (I know
that for a fact because a dealer I knew bought
one of these cars from him—on a Wisconsin
title—and refused to give back the California
plates after repeated requests). Then again, they
kept a lot of the documentation to show there
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
was a lot about this car that was changed over
the years. Didn’t sell on the block, but posted as
sold in the results after the show.
#69-1968 CHEVROLET CAMARO convertible.
VIN: 124678N424450. Red/black vinyl/
black vinyl. Odo: 36,092 miles. 327-ci V8, 2-bbl,
auto. Stated that the miles are actual, and, apart
from a repaint, the majority of the car is original.
Optional power steering and top, center console,
and AM/FM radio. Okay trim-off repaint.
Overspray on undercarriage. Some evidence of
light body-filler use in rear quarter panels.
Mostly original brightwork, with occasional light
scuffs and minimal pitting. Decent door fit, but
hood sits slightly high at cowl. Engine repainted,
but not masked-off well. Heavily distressed aircleaner
decal. Sloppy additional wiring. Repro
hoses and clamps. Newer name-brand radials
with base-level wheel covers. Good original interior.
Seats wrinkling from compressed padding.
Stated that it has the original top, but was never
raised for inspection. Cond: 3.
nal paint but still quite dingy. Decent original
interior, but does have notable fading on steering
wheel and seat inserts, while upper door
panels and kick panels have discolored markedly.
Cond: 3-.
SOLD AT $13,500. It’s not too often that you
run into a base-level Firebird, with the OHV 6—
let alone with the 3-speed stick—and a center
console to boot. While the consignor went into a
lot of detail on the early years of the car, one
gets the impression that from about the mid1970s,
it spent about 99.5% of its existence lying
dormant in a garage. Seemingly unsold at
$17,500 on the block, but reported sold just postsale.
NOT SOLD AT $23,500. Stated that the car was
“cocooned” in the Memphis, TN, area for 22
years before being extracted and refurbished.
Considering some of the half-hearted workmanship
and that they also stated that it has power
brakes—but it really doesn’t—I suspect that
this was done up to make pretty for a quick flip
rather than putting any real love into it. With the
entry-level V8 for 1968 under the hood and a
Powerglide automatic behind it, it certainly isn’t
worth the $30k reserve, yet the final bid is just a
touch light. $25k seems to be right for a not-bad
car—but not as great as claimed.
#88-1968 PONTIAC FIREBIRD convertible.
VIN: 223678U611319. Dark green metallic/light
green vinyl/light green vinyl. Odo: 95,175 miles.
230-ci I6, 2-bbl, 3-sp. Optional a/c, center console,
AM radio and ps. One-owner car; owner
states that miles are actual since new. Aside from
maintenance items (such as tires and halogen
headlights), the hubcaps, a power antenna and
cruise control are the only non-stock items. Original
paint presentable for the most part—despite
overall light chipping, lifting on top of fenders
and a deep gouge on right front fender, immediately
below emblems. Original bumper chrome
isn’t too bad at all. Stock engine with good origi-
106 AmericanCarCollector.com
#68-1969 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE SS 396
convertible. VIN: 1366791304306. Red/black
vinyl/black vinyl. Odo: 37,057 miles. 396-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Body tag is missing. Indeed, not
much was put back on top of the cowl after it was
brush-painted black. Alternator covers the
stamping pad, so unable to verify if the motor is
original to the car or some grain truck. Dressed
in headers with distressed white coating, MSD
HEI ignition, plus Edelbrock high-rise intake
manifold, carb, and open-element air cleaner.
Prop rod needed to hold the hood up—despite
having hood springs. Pretty decent base/clear
paint job, with occasional light orange peel and
repop SS stripes over it. New replacement windshield,
lightly scuffed original stainless trim.
Mostly repop emblems and chrome. Carpet has
heavier fade and wear, especially on transmission
hump. Aftermarket wood-rim steering wheel
and period AM/FM/8-track. Cond: 3+.
NOT SOLD AT $26,000. An Oshawa, Ontariobuilt
car (as indicated by the 1 for the plant code
in the middle of the VIN); if I were the buyer, I’d
make it a point to get the GM of Canada build
report of the car. Then again, you might be in
for a not-so-pleasant surprise if it shows that this
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
was really built as a Malibu. Maybe the consignor
did, and that’s why it’s heading out the
door. The consignor “wants closer to $30,000,”
but without justification for those SS 396 emblems
throughout the car (most were mintyfresh),
this was sufficiently bid.
#70-1980 PONTIAC TRANS AM coupe. VIN:
2W87WAL145301. Starlight Black/Carmine Red
velour. Odo: 13,668 miles. 301-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Retains all documentation from when sold
new by Tom’s Pontiac and Honda of Rochester,
MN. Factory options include a/c, full tinted glass,
cruise control, block heater, velour trim group,
AM/FM radio and WS6 Snowflake alloy wheels.
Mileage from new and generally original. Original
paint presents well, aside from some staining
on passenger’s side of hood. They also went nuts
pinstriping on day two. Also added body-side
moldings, mud flaps and rust proofing. Exceptionally
well-preserved interior, which even still
has a hint of new-car smell wafting inside. Light
cleanup detailing underhood. Stock mufflers
jettisoned for a pair of blue glasspacks clamped
in place onto surface-rusted, original pipes.
Cond: 2-.
ing scratches on hood and trunk lid. Windshield
delaminating near VIN tag. Doors rattle a bit
when shut, but only when glass is rolled down.
Cleaned and detailed engine bay, just shy of
show-ready. Undercarriage hasn’t been touched
in 32 years (but it seems just like yesterday),
with some dealer-applied undercoating slopped
onto exhaust. Surface-rusted main rear sway bar.
Minimal seat-bolster and floor-mat wear on allstock
interior. Plastics don’t even show yellowing
from age. Runs out well with no apparent issues.
Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $18,900. The original owner had it
for 10 years as his summer-only toy, selling with
11k miles to a chap who static-parked it for the
next two decades before the consignor here
bought it and put 2,600 miles on it over nine
summers. One can make the cheap-shot argument
that it was only driven on nice days in Minnesota,
but you wouldn’t be too far from the
truth. It is a pretty decent 1980 Trans Am. Problem
is, it’s still an emaciated 1980 Trans Am,
which makes even the base Olds 403s from the
previous year look like rocket ships. On the
block, it got one more bid after it hit the $17k
reserve. If you’ve been itching to put that Bay
City Rollers cassette into just the right vehicle,
you could do worse.
#99-1987 BUICK GNX coupe. VIN: 1G4GJ1170HP444510.
Black/black & gray cloth. Odo:
1,961 miles. 3.8-L turbocharged V6, auto. Dashboard
tag number 052. Mileage actual and all
original—aside from fluids and the battery (a
bargain-basement unit). Typical 1980s GM lightorange-peel
paint, but with some heavier polish-
SOLD AT $94,500. Last seen here last year,
then a no-sale at $88k (ACC# 6874769). If anything
changed, we went from 0.2 miles to rolling
from 0.8 to 0.9 miles on the odometer. At least
this is one car that both Publisher Martin and I
agree on—they do absolutely nothing for us.
Even if ASC sorted them out, there’s nothing as
un-reassuring as buying a car that was built by
people who were about to lose their jobs and
knew it. This year, it opened at $50k and moved
strongly up to $85k, where it hit the wall. As it
rolled off the block and the next car was coming
in, the consignor lowered his reserve and the last
bidder agreed to take it for that, so call this correctly
sold—for one that’s in the 1k-mile range.
CORVETTE
#83-1972 CHEVROLET CORVETTE coupe.
VIN: 1Z37W2S507774. Mille Miglia Red/black
leather. Odo: 38,404 miles. 454-ci 270-hp V8,
4-bbl, 4-sp. Options include a/c, tilt/tele steering
column, power windows and custom interior.
Dealer-accessory luggage rack. Stated that indicated
miles believed to be actual, yet it had a
recent “frame-on” restoration. Better-than-factory
paint application. Clearance cuts in front
wheelwell lips. New replacement windshield, with
a few light dings in stainless framing. A couple of
alignment miscues on T-top panel stainless edging.
Near show-quality engine bay detailing,
aside from use of screw-type hose clamps on
heater hoses. Expertly installed reproduction
seats and carpeting. Dashpad, A-pillar trim and
center console all redyed. Mostly black rattlecanned
chassis, with newer aftermarket, chambered
exhaust system. Cond: 2-.
September–October 2019 107
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
much more than an L82 with M21 (the only powertrain
option that it was offered with) that had
the FE7 Gymkhana suspension and heavy-duty
power brakes. Stated as it rolled off the block that
it was going to take $55k to buy it today. We’re
still several years away from that being the new
reality—regardless of rare options and low miles.
Nice car, just not $55k worth of nice car.
SOLD AT $43,200. 1972 was the last year for
the pop-out rear window on the T-top coupe;
which, depending upon your point of view, is
either a bonus (if you like full air flow through
the cockpit) or a bummer (if you don’t like
leaks). Bidding here opened at a very strong
$35k, getting to the $40k reserve three bids later
and selling. Even for a chrome-bumper big-block
with reported lower miles, the final price here
just doesn’t add up. Even if it had a notebook
full of NCRS Top Flight awards, this was still a bit
rich. Very well sold.
#78-1975 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 1Z67T5S434857. Bright blue metallic/
white vinyl/black leather. Odo: 7,242 miles.
350-ci 205-hp V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Special-ordered
new by consignor from Viking Chevrolet in Fridley,
MN, retaining original window sticker and
invoice. Options include M21 4-speed, Z07 OffRoad
Handling package, a/c, both tops, ps, pb,
pw, rear window defogger, tilt/tele steering column,
Custom interior and AM/FM stereo. Stated
that indicated miles are actual from new. Recently
professionally repainted in two-stage
base/clear—done vastly better than any factory
paint job. All chrome original and excellent.
Light scuffing on windshield trim. Seating surface
glossiness from use and some light wrinkling
from compacted padding is extent of interior
wear. Stock and tidy underhood. Some chassis
components have a bit of light primer overspray
on them. Cond: 2-.
#84-1992 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 1G1YY33P5N5119834. Bright Aqua
Metallic/white vinyl/white leather. Odo: 70,311
miles. 5.7-L 300-hp fuel-injected V8, auto. Optional
electronic climate control, selective ride
control, Delco/Bose sound system and power
sport seats. Very well-cared-for original paint,
with about three touched-up light rock chips near
front emblem. Slight UV fade on luggage rack
and rear spoiler. Headlight door gaps vary, main
door gaps good. Moderate door-sill carpeting
wear. Some areas of wear on driver’s seat bolster
touched up before seats were redyed. Crack in
passenger’s side rear compartment plastic lining.
Used-car undercarriage, with original exhaust
system’s resonators starting to blow out on bottoms.
Hood clamshell stayed firmly latched for
whole of auction’s inspection and sale.
Cond: 3+.
leather. Odo: 61,035 miles. 317-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Originally Colonial Blue with a two-tone
blue leather interior, per body tag that’s popriveted
over the better-quality color-change repaint.
New generic door seals sloppily glued into
place. All brightwork either replated or professionally
refurbished. Well-fitted Stayfast top.
Expertly reupholstered door panels. Engine is
clean and was at least initially well detailed.
However, the devil’s in the details: too-light engine-paint
coating now has light surface rust,
and modern crimp connectors are used in several
places on newer wiring harness. Very clean undercarriage,
with red body paint and black chassis.
Cond: 3+.
NOT SOLD AT $49,000. One of 144 1975 C3s
with the Z07 Off-Road Handling package. When
it was first advertised online that the car was
going to be here, more folks called the auction
company asking what the Z07 package was than
inquiring about the low miles. If they had done
their homework, they’d have known that it’s not
108 AmericanCarCollector.com
SOLD AT $9,720. My sister, who has a travel
photography blog, was out photographing cars
at Back to the 50’s, and I told her that her assignment
for the day was to photograph this car
and have it show in images as the correct Bright
Aqua Metallic. This paint is an auction reporter’s
bane, as when photographed it always turns blue
under any sort of artificial light, and isn’t even
cooperative in natural sunlight. She spent about
half an hour before getting fairly close—but still
not quite on the button. A delightful and very
early-1990s color, but not one easily reproduced.
A pretty decent driver, and appropriately bid
considering the miles and that it’s essentially a
fun, sunny-day driver with some light reconditioning.
Fair deal all around.
FOMOCO
#85-1953 LINCOLN CAPRI convertible. VIN:
53WA28956H. Royal Red/black cloth/black & red
SOLD AT $36,720. 1952’s all-new 317-ci Yblock
V8 carried over into 1953, gaining 45
horsepower by using a 4-barrel carburetor in
lieu of the previous year’s 2-barrel. Hardly the
stuff of high performance today, but back then
these were “road race” Lincolns (so named for
their class-winning exploits in La Carrera Panamericana
Mexican Road Race of this era). It was
also the car for which Tom McCahill put down
some filthy lucre that he earned from his columns
in Mechanix Illustrated to secure it as his
personal ride. He’d probably review this example
as, “Shines like a newly minted penny on the
outside, but they must’ve put a Scotsman on
doing up under the hood.” The reserve was met
when bidding hit $34k, then it petered out and
was hammered sold. Better sold than bought,
but not by a wide margin.
#116-1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD convertible.
VIN: D7FH146633. Starmist Blue/navy blue
cloth, white hard top/white & gray vinyl. Odo:
51,779 miles. 312-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Factory
options include both types of tops (although the
original black vinyl soft top is now blue cloth),
ps, pb, plus Town & Country radio. Purchased by
consignor from original owner’s daughter in
1991. Since then, it received a professional trimoff
repaint, had undercoating removed, replaced
interior soft trim with reproduction pieces—plus
the engine, carburetor, transmission, differential,
brakes and ps pump have all been rebuilt. Paint
on the hard top may be original. Reproduction
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
whitewall tires starting to yellow, as is some of
the repop interior vinyl. Okay door fit, even if it
protrudes slightly higher than the body. Clean
but not stunning engine bay and undercarriage.
Front suspension sits a bit low. Cond: 2-.
Skyliner hard-top convertibles also got the Galaxie
name, depending upon when a given car
was built and at which plant it was made. The
consignor must have had the cost of the restoration
from years back still in his head not to accept
this very reasonable final bid.
NOT SOLD AT $35,500. To my mind, this is a
rather fetching color combination, especially with
the dark blue cloth soft top, but also since it
doesn’t have those Kelsey-Hayes 1961–63 Sports
Roadster wire wheels that appear all too often
on these two-place T-birds. The full wheel covers
for 1957 look rather nice on these, and aren’t a
PITA to keep clean, inflated and balanced. Full
bid here, but the consignor didn’t realize it.
#118-1959 FORD GALAXIE 500 2-dr hard
top. VIN: H9HS173148. White/white & gold
vinyl, gray nylon. Odo: 71,998 miles. 352-ci V8,
4-bbl, auto. Restored over a decade ago, now
aging out to look more like a good original. The
trim-off repaint still looks quite good. Light
overspray on chassis and suspension. Replated
bumpers and several major pieces of chrome—
but not all of them. Light pitting on C-pillar base
trim. Reconditioned stainless trim. New door
seals, but missing all stop bumpers, so doors
rattle a bit when latched. Expertly installed reproduction
seats, door panels, carpet, headliner
and dashpad. Older repaint of valve covers and
air cleaner, with repop decals. Even older engine
block repaint. Minimal effort taken to detail or
for authenticity underhood beyond that.
Cond: 3+.
#120-1959 EDSEL CORSAIR convertible.
VIN: W9RU730624. Star Blue Metallic/black
vinyl/black & silver vinyl. Odo: 58,280 miles.
361-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Original window sticker
from when it was sold new by Oberg-Ryan Lincoln-Mercury
of Duluth, MN. Options include
Level-Temp heater and defroster, back-up lights,
station-seeking AM radio, safety package and
tinted windshield. Stated that indicated miles are
correct. Repainted a few years ago in base/clear
and done quite well. Original paint under the
hood on cowl. Masking around door seals
could’ve been better. Old bumper replate, with
remaining chrome being original and slightly
muted. Original carpeting has moderate wear
and fading. Wrinkled dashpad corners. Repainted
engine, but not really detailed beyond
that. Mostly rattle-can black chassis, with
overspray on exhaust system. Newer radial tires.
Cond: 3+.
although masking around body tag is iffy. Good
door fit, but rear hatch and tailgate have some
alignment issues. Mostly replated chrome and
refurbished stainless trim. New plastic inserts for
pedestrian gun-sight emblems. More alignment
issues with lower rear quarter panel “Reynolds
Wrap” trim to its rear molding. Rear alloy trim
rather dull and in need of polishing. Fitted with
stainless-steel fender skirts. Good engine paint,
in FoMoCo Blue. Stock reupholstery work on
seats. Reproduction door panels and dashpad.
Bland, used-car undercarriage. Cond: 3+.
NOT SOLD AT $20,000. The Ford wagon hierarchy
for 1960 still had both 2-door Ranch Wagons
and these 4-door Country Sedans in the
lower-to-midrange Fairlane trim. The 4-door
Country Squire, with its acres of wood-grained
vinyl decals, was considered a high-trim Galaxie.
Any of these are far and few between today, as
your best chance of finding one is in an oldtimey
junkyard. However, this one has been popping
up with some regularity. It was last seen
selling at Mecum’s suburban Chicago auction in
October 2017, then fetching $20,350 (ACC#
6851798). Bid lower than that here, there was
no way it was selling; stated as it rolled out of
the building that it takes $22k to get it bought
today.
NOT SOLD AT $19,500. The Galaxie name was
introduced to the Fairlane 500 lineup over the
course of the 1959 model year. The biggest difference
was the Galaxie’s use of the Thunderbird-style
blind C-pillar roof on fixed-roof body
styles (the top-shelf Country Squire staying part
of the Fairlane 500 series). Sunliner ragtops and
110 AmericanCarCollector.com
NOT SOLD AT $21,000. While it seems obvious
that Lincoln-Mercury dealers also got Edsel
franchises, Ford had always intended the Edsel
to be sold by dealers who didn’t necessarily
have ties to FoMoCo. As such, Edsels were also
sold by dealers who handled Pontiacs, GMCs,
Studebakers, International trucks, various
brands of farm tractors and implements, plus
myriad imports. Being from the “Minnesota
Riviera,” I suspect that this was a more affluent
citizen’s summer cruise-around toy. If it was a
four-season car from up there, it would’ve
rusted out from salt used on hilly streets before
JFK was assassinated. Consignor quoted a
dealer-based price guide with pie-in-the-sky
figures ranging from $52k to $60k, which is
pushing it pretty hard for a concours-quality,
Condition 1 car. This isn’t that.
#105-1960 FORD COUNTRY SEDAN 6-passenger
wagon. VIN: 0E64X210994. White/aqua
vinyl. Odo: 99,950 miles. 352-ci V8, 2-bbl, auto.
Generally good repaint, done a few years ago,
#65-1965 FORD THUNDERBIRD convertible.
VIN: 5Y85Z166441. White/white vinyl/blue
vinyl. Odo: 22,469 miles. 390-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto.
Optional Swing-Away steering column, power
seats and power windows. Repainted not that
long ago, and reasonably well with generally
decent masking—if you ignore overspray on
undercarriage. Well-fitted replacement top, and
top mechanism works very well. Good door fit.
Older bumper replating, plus some trim reconditioning,
but most alloy trim is rather dull. Modern
replacement windshield. Original interior,
which is presentable but has its share of issues.
Seam lifting to some extent on all seating positions.
Lightly pitted brightwork. Older engine
repaint done well enough at the time, but is now
dingy. Paint flaking off air cleaner. Call it function-over-form
component maintenance. Cond:
3. NOT SOLD AT $15,000. The 1965 T-bird
featured the initial use of sequential turn signals
on a Ford product. That’s just one of a multitude
of complex features on these drop-tops, with the
most complex being that top-actuation assembly
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
so nobody should complain here—although I
feel it was a touch better sold than bought.
for which it shares the vast majority of parts with
the 1961–67 Lincoln Continental convertibles.
This one went up and down with no problem at
all (helped by the fact that the consignor deals in
these cars, is well versed in how the tops function,
and can fix ’em). He was firm and fast on
his $17k reserve, so this was a $2k chasm that
wasn’t getting jumped from either direction, but
that chasm is the proper money for the car with
all other issues factored into it.
#115-1967 FORD RANCHERO pickup. VIN:
7K48H142348. Red/black vinyl. Odo: 55,992
miles. 390-ci V8, 2-bbl, auto. Optional a/c, ps, pb
and AM radio. Modern production Cragar SS
wheels on radial tires. Originally Medium Gold
Metallic, with a better-quality trim-off, colorchange
repaint. Reproduction body trim, but it’s
for a Fairlane 500 (aside from correct Ranchero
scripts on side of cargo box and “longhorn” emblems
on C-pillars and tailgate). Wiper arms
appear to be powder coated. New fender bolts
used underhood. Engine authentically repainted
and detailed. However, that’s not recent, as
bare-metal fasteners and brake master cylinder
have flash rust. Well-fitted all-reproduction interior
soft trim starting to show some minimal
wear and light dust from sitting. Older flat- and
matte-black coatings on undercarriage. Cond: 2-.
#56-1968 FORD MUSTANG coupe. VIN:
8R01C163584. Dark green metallic/white vinyl/
Parchment vinyl. Odo: 47,973 miles. 289-ci V8,
2-bbl, auto. Consignor claims miles are actual,
but can’t back it up. Older color-change repaint
from the original Tahoe Turquoise, but has
paint-lifting issues due to some rust blistering
along base of C-pillar trim. Light frost pitting on
most chrome. Original wheel covers in trunk,
while a set of take-off, fake wire covers are over
rusty wheels. Redyed roof. Interior changed a
while back from original Ivy Gold—long enough
back that it’s now markedly yellowing. Aftermarket
wood-rim steering wheel and DIN-mount
sound system below dash—with stock AM radio
still in place. Recent engine bay fluff-and-buff,
with a good repaint and repop decals on motor
but Walmart-level hardware and ancillaries.
Dingy undercarriage with chambered dual exhaust
system. Cond: 3+.
tem. Good repro seats and carpeting.
Passenger’s side visor was signed by the ol’
chicken farmer himself. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $108,000. When you put the catalog
for the auction you bought the car from on the
dashboard, it’s extremely low-hanging fruit to
figure out that it was bought at Mecum’s 2015
Spring Classic at Indy for $145,800 (ACC#
6798047). We also have seen it at the 2018
Spring Classic, then not selling against a $115k
high bid (ACC# 6874401). Hate to say never,
but it’s highly unlikely that it’ll sell for less if
maintained in this condition. It’s not often that
one can call the top-selling car at an auction
well bought, but I just did.
NOT SOLD AT $17,500. Let’s see…drivergrade,
plain Mustang, in the least-popular body
style, painted a non-stock color with colorchanged
interior, lowest-horsepower 289 (losing
five ponies in 1968 with smog gear), automatic,
and no Marti Report (like $45 is going to bust
the budget, yet that would show how much this
had been changed). And they didn’t take a
$17,500 offer. More like there wasn’t $17,500 to
offer on this $12,500 car.
SOLD AT $24,300. For 1966, the Ranchero
made the jump to the mid-size platform, staying
there until it was discontinued in 1979. In my
opinion, the ’67s like this one were the best
looking of the two years of the square-box body,
and with the federally mandated safety changes
(especially dual-master-cylinder brakes and
collapsible steering column), this is also the year
to have for a cruiser. And have no doubt about
it, this one is a cruiser, not a show boat—especially
with the Fairlane 500 trim and scripts on it.
The reserve was lifted once the bidding dried up,
112 AmericanCarCollector.com
#98-1968 SHELBY GT500 fastback.
VIN: 8T02S129533. Acapulco Blue/black
vinyl. Odo: 73,404 miles. 428-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp.
Shelby’s suffix to the Ford VIN is 00541. Marti
Report displayed with car confirms that it was
optioned with ps, front disc pb, wheelwell moldings,
Tilt-Away steering column, Sport Deck rear
seat, interior décor group, extra cooling package
and AM radio. Now fitted with 10-spoke Shelby
alloys on repro Blue Streak tires. Older, concise
restoration, with some recent touch-up. Rather
good base/clear repaint, inclusive of center
stripes. Recent fluff-and-buff underhood, but is
all correct right down to hoses going into smog
pump and a repop battery. Heavier rust on repainted
gas tank than springs and exhaust sys-
#113-1973 FORD MUSTANG convertible.
VIN: 3F03F230528. Blue Glow Metallic/white
vinyl/white vinyl. Odo: 69,964 miles. 302-ci V8,
2-bbl, auto. Optional ps, pb, Sports Mirrors and
full tinted glass. Per the Marti Report, it was
originally leased to Ford’s Twin Cities District
Office as a company car. Additional documentation
states it was supplied to use for filming introductory
scenes in Minneapolis for the third
season of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Drivergrade
restoration done approximately two decades
ago is still presentable. Slightly betterthan-average
base/clear repaint. Hints of body
filler in base of rear wheelwells and bottoms of
doors—accented quite well by the argent
rocker-panel paint. Mix of okay original and
good repop brightwork. Newer top. Most dash
vents are broken. Dingy engine bay. Cond: 3.
NOT SOLD AT $16,500. In B-roll video that
supported the claim of being used in the intro for
the TV series, Mary (wearing a Vikings number
10 Fran Tarkenton jersey) is given a sponge to
wash the car, then she asks how to wash a car,
as she had never done that before. If not for the
TV connection, this would just be another $7,500
BEST
BUY
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TWIN CITIES AUCTIONS • ST. PAUL, MN
cruise-night special. However, locals to the Twin
Cities tend to go mental over fleeting moments
of stardom, and that is epitomized in the highest
degree by the worship of this long-running 1970s
TV series loosely based in Minneapolis, but rarely
filmed here. Just like the Green Bay Packers
fan-shrine Packard that I reported on at the W.
Yoder auction a month earlier in Wautoma, WI,
if you can’t get more than what’s bid right here
in the heart of the strongest fan base, you darn
well won’t do any better anywhere else. It really
should’ve sold.
#117-1988 FORD MUSTANG ASC McLaren
convertible. VIN: 1FABP40E2JF204214. Red/
black cloth/two-tone gray leather. Odo: 6,162
miles. 5.0-L fuel-injected V8, auto. Dash plaque
number 943 (out of 1,015 made for 1988). ASC
McLaren-generated window sticker shows it was
sold new by Pelican Ford of Sarasota, FL, and
optioned with the automatic transmission, power
door locks, a/c, cruise control and built-in radar
detector. Good ASC-applied paint, although it
now has some moderate polishing scratches in
places. ASC tag in driver’s door jamb is getting a
bit rough. Excellent original interior; only issue is
staining from cleaning compounds on dashpad.
Generally clean and minimally detailed
underhood. Used-car undercarriage. Older replacement
tires. Cond: 2-.
glass and interior trim, then shipped back to
River Rouge to have the trim completed. It
wasn’t until 1984 that Ford was set up to make
the convertibles in-house. Last seen selling for
$14,840 at Mecum’s Spring 2012 Kansas City
auction (ACC# 202944). Since then, Fox-body
Mustangs of all stripes have been gaining in
value, especially these ASC McLarens, which
have generally been misunderstood for decades.
While it may seem well sold, I feel it was a market-correct
sale—especially since it’s a good
detailing away from being a show car.
MOPAR
#130-1962 CHRYSLER 300 2-dr hard top.
VIN: 8223203283. Red/black vinyl. Odo: 30,028
miles. 413-ci V8, 4-bbl, 3-sp. Fitted with modern
chrome wire wheels, which now have light surface
rust on spokes and are shod with older radials.
Only options are the 413 V8, power steering
and AM radio. Repainted a few years ago, and is
generally presentable. Spot-welded VIN tag lifted
as part of the repaint, then reattached with two
different screws. Bottom of windshield starting to
delaminate. Hood slightly bowed. Decent older
engine repaint, with repop valve cover decals.
Seats reupholstered recently, done rather well.
Also has replacement carpet and dashpad.
Redyed door panels. Somewhat robust exhaust
note. Parking brake started hanging up when
staged to go across the line, but was fixed by the
time it crossed the block. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $14,040. Not to be confused with the
“letter cars,” the no-letter-suffix 300 (actually, it
was the “Super Sport 300”) was first introduced
for 1962, riding the coattails of the 1955–61
C-300 through 300G. It replaced the Windsor in
the Chrysler lineup as a less-expensive, performance-themed,
mid-range Chrysler. It was also
available as a 4-door hard top, as the letter cars
were always 2-doors. If the consignor was going
to go the wire-wheel route, they should’ve done
the repop 1950s Chrysler/Imperial wires instead
of what looks like a set of swapmeet specials.
The cost-cutting measures done on the whole car
stepped over the rarity factor, although the $9k
reserve was easily surpassed. Well enough sold.
#127-1973 PLYMOUTH ’CUDA 2-dr hard
top. VIN: BS23H3B176193. Silver Frost Metallic/
black vinyl. Odo: 40,374 miles. 340-ci V8,
4-bbl, 4-sp. Per fender tag, equipped with side
stripes, front disc pb, body-colored dual racing
mirrors, rocker-sill moldings and AM radio. Twostage
repaint done a few years ago and presents
well. Door-top trim is overall lightly dented, if
not rippled. Replated bumpers. Most emblems
are in like-new condition but have plenty of polish
and wax residue around them. Seats have
light wrinkling from use but are otherwise in
great shape. Heavier fading of pistol-grip shift
knob than the printed wood on dashboard.
Heavier soiling on steering wheel. Stock-appearing
engine, with a good repaint a few years back
but now getting soiled. Non-OEM service parts
like the hoses, clamps and ignition wiring.
Primer overspray on chassis. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $21,600. For those who say these ASC
McLarens are nothing more than cut coupes, all
1983 Mustang convertibles were also made into
drop tops from coupes shipped to ASC without
“
Fox-body Mustangs of all stripes have
been gaining in value, especially these
ASC McLarens, which have generally been
misunderstood for decades.
1988 Ford Mustang ASC McLaren convertible
”
SOLD AT $32,400. By 1973, this was the highest-performance
’Cuda that you could get. While
the 340 was a good engine, it certainly wasn’t a
big block or Hemi that was available just two
years earlier. With performance taking a nose
dive, so did sales, although 1973 rebounded
slightly, from 1972’s 16,142 to 19,281, but the
OPEC oil crisis delivered the knock-out punch for
the final year of 1974 with a meager 11,734
sales. The final years of production will always
live and be priced in the shadows of 1970s and
’71 models—even like-for-like ’Cuda 340s—so
this sale is market-correct, if not a touch rich.
A
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Selected Sales Combined in One Comprehensive Report
American Highlights
at Three Auctions
CLASSICS
#198-1916 PIERCE-ARROW MODEL 48
tourer. VIN: 14656. Eng. # B43105. Cream/
black cloth/black leather. RHD. Odo: 8,652 miles.
Full restoration by previous owner in early
2000s. Holding up well, with no typical paint
cracking, just a few small chips and scratches.
Body and door fit better than usually seen on a
restored Brass Era car. Top outer and inner cloth
appear very well. Interior has seats showing just
a nice bit of use, with impressive dash, steering
wheel and other details. Front tires older with
some cracking and different brand than Goodrich
rears. Two new spares on rims are same type as
the front tires. Engine clean and appears well
restored. Cond: 2+.
One owner with all its original paperwork and claimed original 14k miles — 1993 Chevrolet
Corvette ZR-1 40th Anniversary coupe, sold for $35,200 at Mecum Portland
RM Auctions
Auburn, IN — May 29–June 1, 2019
Auctioneers: Brent Earlywine, Mike Shackelton
Automotive lots sold/offered: 185/281
Sales rate: 66%
Sales total: $4,689,515
High sale: 1930 Cord L-29 phaeton, sold at
$157,300
Buyer’s premium: 10%, included in sold prices
Report and photos by Daren Kloes
Bonhams
Greenwich, CT — June 2, 2019
Auctioneer: Malcolm Barber
Automotive lots sold/offered: 71/99
Sales rate: 72%
Sales total: $4,356,464
114 AmericanCarCollector.com
High American sale: 1970 Ford Mustang Boss
429 fastback, sold at $161,280
Buyer’s premium: 12% on first $250,000; 10%
thereafter, included in sold prices
Report and photos by Jeff Trepel, Mark Moskowitz
and Larry Trepel
Mecum Auctions
Portland, OR — June 21–22, 2019
Auctioneers: Mark Delzell, Jimmy Landis
Automotive lots sold/offered: 252/416
Sales rate: 61%
Sales total: $6,625,740
High American sale: 1969 Ford Mustang Boss
429 fastback, sold at $275,000
Buyer’s premium: 10%, minimum $500,
included in sold prices
Report and photos by Jim Pickering and Chad
Taylor
NOT SOLD AT $130,000. This impressive
Pierce-Arrow must have come close to meeting
its reserve, with a low estimate of $150k. Much
effort and investment made not long ago for
restoration, so the high bid seems relatively
modest, perhaps reflecting a narrowing market
for Brass Era cars. An incredible car to own for
this kind of money, but caring for and driving
such a car takes commitment and may be challenging.
Let’s hope values stay high enough to
keep these cars cared for and marketable. Bonhams,
Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
#6028-1929 PACKARD EIGHT convertible.
VIN: 176407. Yellow/tan cloth/green leather.
Odo: 85,111 miles. Old restoration now showing
lots of nicks and scratches. Interesting color
choice. Seats were no doubt re-covered during
restoration, but now show an “original”-looking
patina. Chrome trim lightly pitted. Engine compartment
dirty and dusty. Fitted with Deluxe
Equipment package, which included sidemount,
chrome plating on the cowl band and cowl
lamps, and trunk rack. Cond: 3-. SOLD AT
$26,400. Prior to the Depression in 1929, Packard
was riding high. The company was creating
innovative, powerful and beautiful cars and was
one of the first companies to master luxury marketing.
It didn’t simply release a new model
when the calendar year changed; rather, it
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America’s premier automakers, then $30k seems
like a bargain. Bonhams, Greenwich, CT,
06/19.
introduced a new “series” when upgrades were
warranted, a philosophy that supported the
brand’s exclusivity. This Series Six model represented
the beginning of the look that would define
Packard’s signature design for the next
decade or so. This example had great bones, but
everything needs attention. Seemed cheap
enough, but even a well-restored example would
have trouble cracking $75k–$80k today. RM
Auctions, Auburn, IN, 05/19.
#139-1935 PIERCE-ARROW TWELVE Model
1245 sedan. VIN: 3120071. Black/tan cloth.
Odo: 72,492 miles. Presented as largely original.
Complete and intact, in running condition. Body
panels in very good condition, virtually dent-free.
Paint dull, mostly consistent, with light blue undercoat
coming through as tiny spotting. Running-board
coverings coming off in pieces, board
metal underneath intact but rusted. Mascot has a
broken bow. One headlight and one running
light have cracked lenses. Grille straight but
rusted, bumpers appear rechromed at one time.
Interior appears mostly original. Front-seat fabric
slightly different and newer looking than rear
seat. Door wood, dash and floors in presentable
condition. Two gauges have broken glass lenses,
and the clock has much corrosion on its face,
unlike the other gauges. State inspection sticker
dated 1995. Cond: 4+.
#6030-1936 PACKARD ONE-TWENTY convertible.
VIN: 9991025. Brown & cream/tan
cloth/tan leather. Odo: 2,595 miles. 282-ci I8,
1-bbl, 3-sp. Restored some time ago to a good
but not great level. Likely a decent car to start
with, as some of the chrome trim pieces and
gauges look original and in good condition.
Weak paint shows a lack of depth, overspray on
seals and uneven pinstriping. Weatherstrip
around rumble seat is dry and cracked. Equipped
with dual sidemount spares, rumble seat, and
includes clock, radio, heater and luggage rack.
Offered from the Route 66 Packard Museum
Collection. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $33,000. Down-market Packards such
as this example were a double-edged sword for
the company. On one hand, moving into mass
production helped keep the company alive following
the Great Depression when other luxury
brands like Stutz and Franklin had priced themselves
out of the market (and subsequently out of
existence). On the other hand, loyal Packard
buyers began to lose faith in the exclusivity the
brand once represented. These are still excellent
road cars with innovative features, but in this
market it takes exceptional restorations or
coach-built models to command a respectable
price. RM Auctions, Auburn, IN, 05/19.
#6114-1941 CADILLAC SERIES 60 SPECIAL
sedan. VIN: 6341235. Green/gray & green cloth.
Odo: 53,056 miles. Offered by the estate of Robert
S. Dulin, who purchased it in the late 1980s
and had it professionally restored at a cost exceeding
$100k. Still, the paint was slightly dull,
chrome lightly pitted and what should be cloisonné
emblems have been painted. Deluxe fullwheel
hubcaps. Said to have been recently
serviced. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $37,400. These mid-1930s junior
Packards offer posh style and near-perfect proportions.
On top of that, they are good road cars
that approach modern highway speeds, making
them terrific club tour cars. Today, a nice
20-year-old Acura Integra Type R has appreciated
to a level similar to today’s example, but
their value curves are crossing in opposite directions.
Sadly, price appreciation is not likely the
Packard’s fate, and this modest result is a barometer
of the future. RM Auctions, Auburn,
IN, 05/19.
SOLD AT $30,800. Regal, stately Pierce-Arrow
in sound but tired condition. Examples such as
this—over 80 years old—always present a
challenge: Is it mostly original, or was it restored
40 or 50 years ago? If original, I’d leave it mostly
as-is and make it a preservation-class standout.
In either case, pre-war sedans are mostly stagnant
in value. This one sold in average market
range, but if you want to look at it as obtaining
an historic, preserved V12 sedan from one of
#6037-1938 PACKARD EIGHT convertible.
VIN: 11993217. Orange/tan canvas/brown vinyl.
Odo: 350 miles. Another aged restoration from
the Route 66 Packard Museum. Flashy color, but
paint shows several nick and chips throughout.
Incorrect upholstery and carpet materials. Cloudy
rear-view mirror and original interior bits that
show tarnish. Equipped with dual sidemounted
and covered spares, and includes clock, radio and
heater. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $25,300. The ’41 60S has beautiful
proportions with a most elegant feel. It is a Full
Classic as designated by the CCCA and represents
one of the least-expensive tickets to the Club.
These cars have a modern feel and are a joy to
drive. Despite lots of money showered upon this
example, some details were left slightly unsatisfying.
Sadly, sold at a market price, but should
be worth more. RM Auctions, Auburn, IN,
05/19.
GM
#169-1949 CADILLAC DEVILLE 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 496289515. Eng. # 496289515. Dark
blue metallic/light blue/blue & gray cloth &
leather. Odo: 26,474 miles. 331-ci V8, 2-bbl,
auto. Elegant Cadillac presented with vague restoration
history, but likely done in the mid-tolate
1990s, as it was a 1998 AACA National First
Prize winner. If so, the quality of the restoration
is impressive and it has endured very well. Paint
and chrome no longer concours quality, but both
are in remarkably good condition, with minor
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blemishes here and there and slight microscratching
(which is what happens to cars). Inside,
the dash and its hardware are almost
perfect, and headliner is excellent. Leather portions
of seats are somewhat soiled—hopefully a
deep cleaning can improve that. Very clean
underhood, but not detailed. Cond: 2.
NOT SOLD AT $25,000. The owner and his
friend were debating removing the header plugs
from this monster for its trip across the block,
which would have undoubtedly made for a deafening
few minutes inside Portland’s Expo Center.
It takes a special buyer to buy a ’55 Gasser—especially
a wagon—but for that guy, this thing
had all the right stuff and a great overall look.
Bid price wasn’t close enough for the seller,
which isn’t much of a surprise given what it
probably cost to assemble all of these parts. The
market for something like this gets much thinner
with an asking price closer to $30k. May be
worth more than what was bid, but not a bunch
more. Mecum Auctions, Portland, OR,
06/19.
NOT SOLD AT $68,000. The 1949 Cadillac was
a landmark car because of the debut (along with
Oldsmobile) of the revolutionary high-compression,
OHV V8 engine, and the advent of the first
pillarless hard top (again, along with Buick and
Oldsmobile), to which Cadillac gave the name
Coupe de Ville. Only slightly faded since its restoration
over 20 years ago, and obviously the recipient
of long-term loving care. This car was an
excellent example, but I could not find any sales
of non-convertible 1949 Cadillacs that would
support the Bonhams pre-sale estimate of $80k–
$100k. The high bid of $68,000 was realistic and
should have been considered Bonhams,
Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
#F129.1-1955 CHEVROLET 210 Handyman
utility. VIN: A550081619. Primer black/black
vinyl. Odo: 9 miles. 427-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, auto.
Black primer finish over imperfect body. Panel
gaps decent, chrome and trim fitted is in good
shape. Sitting on a straight axle and leaf springs
up front for a gasser-style look, engine is set
back three inches from the factory location. Tunnel
ram induction, TH400 auto with 3500-rpm
stall and 3.25:1 gears with Grizzly locker. Teninch-wide
magnesium rear wheels with fat
31/18.5/15 Mickey Thompson rubber. No back
seat. Engine looks like a period piece with vintage
cast-aluminum M/T valve covers, 4160-series
Holleys and painted velocity stacks. Nice,
coated fenderwell headers. Disc brakes. Cond: 3-.
#6102-1957 BUICK SPECIAL wagon. VIN:
4D1086021. Gray & mauve/blue cloth. Odo:
78,227 miles. 364-ci V8, 2-bbl, 3-sp. Driver-quality
example, with poor-quality two-tone paint,
chrome pitted and scratched. Blue interior is
newer, but looks incorrect with greenish gray and
mauve exterior colors. Features include tissue
dispenser, clock and Sonomatic radio. Whitewall
tires on Buick wire wheels. Cond: 3-.
peel above. Interior appears original and remains
excellent. New Haartz convertible top.
Most power accessories standard—after all, it’s
a Cadillac. Cond: 3. SOLD AT $33,550. In 1962,
American optimism ran high, and Cadillac continued
its decades-long string of models that
remained “The Standard of the World,” at least
as far as American iron was concerned. While
this high style may have been the choice for
Frank, Sammy and Marilyn, memories are short
and the market has lost some of the nostalgia
that propped these cars up in recent years. This
was a good example, but demand for early-’60s
land yachts is sadly dwindling. RM Auctions,
Auburn, IN, 05/19.
#S181-1966 CHEVROLET IMPALA 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 164376L105677. Red/black vinyl. Odo:
65,331 miles. 396-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Decent repaint
shows well, but with some light polish
scratches throughout, orange peel, and some
evidence of recent buffing. Front and rear bumpers
worn but still straight, remaining bright trim
in good overall condition, including the often
dented and dinged trunk-lid trim piece. Side trim
probably reproduction; alignment at door
slightly off to front fender. Original big-block car,
but not fitted with a/c, AM/FM or the SS package.
Chassis wears a heavy undercoating that looks
newer than 1966. Engine compartment wears a
glossy repaint, including the 396. Interior clean
and stock, but with added-on headrests to bench
seat and universal triple gauges under dash.
Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $21,450. Among 1950s wagons, it
doesn’t get much better than Buicks—especially
the flagship ’57 Caballero. Unfortunately, this
was a lesser Special model, and the amateurish
execution of this car’s work makes it a better
candidate for a correct re-restoration than a
ready-to-go show car. Purchased as such, and
will require a big investment to make right. RM
Auctions, Auburn, IN, 05/19.
#6103-1962 CADILLAC SERIES 62 convertible.
VIN: 62F139489. Blue/blue cloth. Odo:
86,472 miles. 390-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. New paint,
but not of tremendously high quality, as it’s
showing some dirt under the finish and orange
NOT SOLD AT $22,000. GM built a lot of Impalas
in 1966—654,900 of all bodies, but that
doesn’t include the SS models or the Bel Air,
Biscayne or Caprice. Total them all up and you
get about 1.3m cars, and that’s 1966 alone. A lot
of those cars were like this one—no real creature
comforts to speak of aside from the baselevel
Impala equipment, but fitted with one of
the larger available engines. B-body GM cars are
big, but they’re also stylish and relatively easy to
come by, which I think makes them a great
starter-level collector car—especially for a family
with kids. This one was bid correctly for what
was there, including the wheels and the bigblock
option. Should have sold. Mecum Auctions,
Portland, OR, 06/19.
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different exhaust manifolds, and the factory Ram
Air system, which could be opened and closed
from the driver’s seat via a cable. I don’t blame
the seller for holding out here, as this bid was
well below the $76k median price as reported in
the SCM/ACC Pocket Price Guide. Mecum Auctions,
Portland, OR, 06/19.
SOLD AT $35,200. Disc brakes, an overdrive
transmission and a/c made this red Camaro a
much more usable driver than a total stocker
would have been, which is likely what pushed
the price to this level—of course, the red-andblack
paint on that classic, sought-after ’69 body
didn’t hurt, either. This was obviously owned by
someone who loved it and loved to drive it, as
most of what was done here was geared toward
usability over visibility. The money here was
about right for a red Camaro with a good selection
of aftermarket parts, and this result should
be repeatable next time, too. Fairly bought and
sold. Mecum Auctions, Portland, OR, 06/19.
#S66-1969 PONTIAC GTO Judge 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 242379R141741. Carousel Red/black
vinyl. Odo: 48,151 miles. 400-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto.
Smooth correct-color paintwork smells relatively
new. Nice panel gaps, excellent decal application
all around. Good chrome and trim, correct Polyglas
tires on Rally II wheels. Fitted with Ram Air
III package, power disc brakes, power steering,
hood tach and more. Completely stock under
hood with the proper fittings and finishes, if
slightly over-restored. Interior clean and correct.
Comes with PHS documentation proving its
Judge status. Cond: 1-.
#S89-1970 CHEVROLET CAMARO custom
coupe. VIN: 124870L504966. Metallic gray/
black leather. 6.2-L supercharged V8, 6-sp. Topnotch
metallic paint application over crisp, consistent
body with good panel gaps. Fantastic
chrome and trim, light tint to glass. Fitted with a
TCI suspension tubular frame, RideTech coilovers,
14-inch Wilwood disc brakes, Rushforth
wheels with Michelin Pilot tires, a supercharged
LS3 coupled to a TR6060 6-speed manual transmission,
9-inch Ford rear with 3.73 gears and
35-spline axles, 3-inch exhaust, TMI custom interior
and Vintage Air a/c. Digital dash. Spotless
interior done to a high level. Cond: 1-.
including lower sections of front fenders, floor,
cab seam behind engine and rocker panels. Silverado
package includes woodgrain interior trim
and extra exterior side trim pieces, all in good
shape. Add-on grille guard, newer Line-X sprayin
bedliner. Front of bed is bent toward cab in
the center—probably from hauling motorcycles.
Underhood mostly stock, save for black valve
covers, a replacement Q-jet, rusty headers,
chrome trans dipstick and a yellow bungee keeping
heater hoses pulled away from the exhaust
system. Driver’s front tire almost flat. Cond: 3-.
SOLD AT $79,200. Last seen at Barrett-Jackson
Scottsdale in January 2018, where it sold for
$71,500 (ACC# 6862003). Resto-mods are
growing in popularity again, as evidenced by
heavy price increases in Scottsdale and elsewhere
at the start of 2019. I won’t suggest that
building something like this is a great way to
make money, because it isn’t, especially once
you consider what each of the individual components
cost when you start adding all the parts up.
But well-done current customs like this one have
a real following right now, and for an end-user
who is looking to actually go out and drive a car
hard—and have something that will turn heads
at a car show—something like this Camaro can
have a lot more appeal than a new Corvette
fresh from GM for around the same money. Very
well done, both on the build and on the sale.
Mecum Auctions, Portland, OR, 06/19.
NOT SOLD AT $62,000. The paint smell had
me wondering just how fresh this restoration
was, but it didn’t really matter if the paint was a
week old or 10 years old—either way, this was
a really nicely done Judge. The Ram Air, III
package pushed power from the base-level 350hp
rating up to 366 hp via D-port cylinder heads,
#S196-1976 CHEVROLET K10 pickup. VIN:
CKU1461114170. Green/tan vinyl. Odo: 26,080
miles. 400-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Okay repaint shows
a bunch of orange peel throughout and was
completed with the glass still installed—some
tape lines are still just barely visible on windshield
and backglass rubber trim. Body is
straight and solid in the typically rusty areas,
September–October 2019 119
NOT SOLD AT $7,000. Dents, dings and orange
peel didn’t keep interested parties away from
this rig during the auction preview, but those
issues were likely to blame for this lackluster bid
across the block. The 1973–87 truck market is
still developing, but I’m willing to bet the seller
was looking for closer to double this number—
which wouldn’t have made much sense considering
the issues noted. As such, reasonably bid, if
just a bit light. Mecum Auctions, Portland,
OR, 06/19.
#S197-1977 CHEVROLET C10 pickup. VIN:
CCL147Z199418. Sky blue/black vinyl. Odo:
35,087 miles. 350-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Is either a
Cheyenne model with Silverado trim or a Silverado
that’s missing its original woodgrain dash
cluster. Decent, smooth paint. Reproduction front
and rear bumpers in good overall condition.
Correct ’77-only yellow-painted side trim and
rear tailgate band. Has optional bed light. Bed
fitted with tonneau cover frame (but no cover)
and large propane tank for propane conversion,
painted body color. Aftermarket tube grille. Seat
is black, rest of interior is blue. Cond: 2-.
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NOT SOLD AT $10,000. Propane conversions
were popular with these trucks in this era, although
it has to make fill-ups a serious hassle
compared to a gas counterpart—not to mention
the smell. But hey, no dangerous sidesaddle
tanks to worry about here, right? Worth more
than what was bid, but I think the propane conversion
probably held back some enthusiasm on
the part of the bidders. That said, it wouldn’t be
hard to put this back to regular gas—and doing
so would probably pay for itself with a larger bid
the next time around. Mecum Auctions, Portland,
OR, 06/19.
#F75-1986 PONTIAC FIERO GT coupe. VIN:
1G2PG9794GP27491. White/gray cloth. 511-ci
V8, 4-bbl, auto. A clean, stock-looking Fiero from
the outside. Underhood, however, it’s a different
story, as the factory V6 has been dumped in favor
of a big-block Chevrolet V8 and TH425
transaxle. Nice, original-looking paint with decent
panel gaps; interior looks stock and original
save for a few add-on gauges to monitor the
monster sitting behind the driver. Engine fitted
with fabricated “Pontiac” valve covers, aluminum
heads, an exhaust-routed oil-vapor system,
headers, MSD ignition, a huge cam and an HPseries
Holley 4-bbl with no choke and removable
air bleeds. Stated to be non-DEQ compliant. You
don’t say. Cond: 2-.
#F217-1987 PONTIAC FIERO SE coupe. VIN:
1G2PF1199HP202536. Medium red metallic/gray
microfiber. Odo: 43,500 miles. 2.8-L fuel-injected
V6, 5-sp. Paint in decent condition aside from
scratchy finish on engine cover, scrape under left
headlight and rock chip on center of nose. Factory
alloys without scarring and wearing Goodyear
Eagles, with plenty of tread. Black trim
around windows and on mirrors slightly faded
and scratched. Both engine compartment and
front trunk area impeccably clean. Interior appears
showroom-fresh despite mileage. Seats not
ripped or stained and plastic pieces without
cracks. Sold with owner’s manual and clean CARFAX.
Cond: 3.
Blue Flame valve cover and triple carbs. Some
expected aging in a few areas of engine bay.
Comes with three different aftermarket hard
tops. Cond: 3+.
SOLD AT $7,150. A mostly fresh example of the
often-hated Fiero. Despite the sub-par ’80s build
quality and 40,000 miles, it’s managed to survive,
thanks to caring owners. Unfortunately,
there are not many redeeming qualities to make
up for the Fiero’s lack of power and propensity
to catch on fire. If you have to buy one, this example
seemed like a decent choice. Just make
sure to keep an eye on that oil-pressure gauge.
At $7k, I’d give a slight nod to the seller. It is still
a Fiero, after all. Mecum Auctions, Portland,
OR, 06/19.
NOT SOLD AT $11,000. What do you do with a
big-block-powered Fiero that you can’t register
because it won’t pass emissions? Burnouts, I
guess. I’d be tempted to yank out the big block,
sell it, and then drop an LS in its place. Do that,
add some cats, and head on down to the testing
station to get your tags. Build your own C8 Corvette!
The seller wasn’t willing to let this go at
$11k, and I can’t say I would have done it, either.
But the market for this kind of stuff is pretty
thin. A 6.0-L out of a wrecked Silverado will run
about $1,200, and with another $2k in mounts,
details, and an ECU to run it, you’ll have a V8
Fiero that will surprise Porsches in the twisties
and probably net closer to $20k at sale time.
Seems like the right move to me. Mecum Auctions,
Portland, OR, 06/19.
120 AmericanCarCollector.com
CORVETTE
#171-1953 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: E53F001075. Eng. # LAY494788.
White/black cloth/red vinyl. Odo: 91,865 miles.
235-ci 150-hp I6, 3x1-bbl, auto. Older full restoration,
done in the mid-1990s by consignor, who
has owned it for 34 years. In most respects the
excellent 23-year-old restoration has held up
well, and the car shows care with some use. But
paint finish has major cracking throughout most
of the body. Chrome pieces in fine condition, with
a small dent in one piece. Interior appears good;
seats, dash in mostly very good condition. Cloth
top also in good shape. Underneath, frame restoration
shows very little road grime and is tidy.
Engine compartment mostly good, with gleaming
NOT SOLD AT $140,000. A rare piece of Corvette
history, with only 300 made and about 200
surviving. All were finished in white with red
interiors and 2-speed automatic transmissions.
Winner of an NCRS Top Flight award, but that
was in 1996 and time has taken its toll on the
paint finish. This certainly affected the bidding,
as it will take some significant work to tear it
down and restore the finish properly. May bring
a bit more next time, but high bid probably not
far from correct value, as a slightly softening
market has seen some no-sales with bids above
and below $200k. Bonhams, Greenwich, CT,
06/19.
#6127-1964 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 40867S120172. Red/black vinyl/
black vinyl. Odo: 90,672 miles. 327-ci 300-hp V8,
4-bbl, 4-sp. Well-done amateur restoration of a
327/300, 4-speed-equipped ’Vette. The owner,
who wisely sat with the car and engaged onlookers,
claims the numbers match. A few nicks in the
paint, light pitting to some chrome, and the
stainless trim looks a bit dull. Features knockoffs,
clock and radio. Cond: 3.
SOLD AT $48,400. A relatively low-spec C2, but
what’s not to like about a red Corvette 4-speed
ragtop? The owner, who restored it himself, was
selling to fund a big-block project he had socked
away. Quick and nimble vs. straight-line
gnarly—two completely different driving experiences
of equal merit. One of each, please. This
example was a quality driver sold on the light
side. RM Auctions, Auburn, IN, 05/19.
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#188-1964 CHEVROLET CORVETTE coupe.
VIN: 40837S107999. Riverside Red/white vinyl.
Odo: 87,954 miles. 327-ci 375-hp fuel-injected
V8, 4-sp. Very nicely restored in recent years by
consignor to original period race setup. A previous
owner had converted it to a street-spec car
long ago. Fresh looking, with excellent paint,
panel fit, interior and engine compartment,
which houses a replacement 327 Fuelie. Has race
numbers, roll bar, original-style wheels without
covers and mostly unmodified interior. Rare,
original 36-gallon Big Tank, stated to be factory
ordered on only 38 cars. Striking overall, street
drivable and mechanically fit. Cond: 2+.
finally be seeing increases in line with Fox Mustangs,
Grand Nationals and the like. After all,
this was king of the hill in the ’90s, and it’s aged
well. The ZR-1 may not have had much of an
exotic look over the standard C4, but it did get a
substantial performance boost thanks to the
DOHC 32V LT5, which loved to rev and totally
changed the character of a Corvette. Low-miles
cars are numerous today, but this is the price
you’ll have to pay to get one. Well bought and
sold. Mecum Auctions, Portland, OR, 06/19.
NOT SOLD AT $240,000. Exciting, rare, SCCA
early-period race Corvette. Lack of extensive
records, trophies and removal of original motor
by first owner may have hurt provenance a bit,
but car received NCRS American Heritage award
in 2018 and has much photographic history.
Reportedly driven at one time by Cale Yarborough,
then by Art Tattinger. Consignor clearly
put much care and investment into restoration. A
no-sale at Mecum Harrisburg 2016 with high bid
of $225k (ACC# 6812557), and no-sale again at
Mecum Kissimmee in 2017 with high bid of
$250k (ACC# 6822928). With another no-sale
and high bid in the same range, owner may
have to decide to lower expectations, or just hold
onto it for awhile. In my view, it’s worth more,
but the market may have spoken enough times
here. Bonhams, Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
#S150-1967 CHEVROLET CORVETTE convertible.
VIN: 194677S112404. Lynndale Blue/
black vinyl/black leather. Odo: 1,708 miles. 427ci
435-hp V8, 3x2-bbl, 4-sp. Nicely done glossy
paint, but is glossier than would have been stock
in the door jambs and around the cowl under the
hood. Good chrome and trim, nicer-than-original
panel gaps. Engine said to be correct. Fitted with
M21 4-speed, 3.70 Posi, power steering, power
disc brakes, telescopic column, hard top, AM/FM
radio and headrest seats. NCRS shipping data
report noted, but no NCRS or Bloomington Gold
awards. Claimed to have been built without any
aftermarket parts. Cond: 1-.
122 AmericanCarCollector.com
SOLD AT $99,000. It really pays to be careful
when buying Corvettes at auction—specifically
big-block, mid-year Corvettes, as there are a lot
of knowledgeable builders out there who know
how to build “original” 427 cars out of smallblock
donors. Now, that’s not to say that this car
had that history, but nowhere was it claimed to
be original, either, which would make me think
hard about bidding without independent verification.
This was a nice car, and I think the price
bid took the provenance question into account,
as the money was light for a factory 435 roadster.
If the proper paperwork exists or the numbers
prove this to be a real-deal car, this was a
screaming deal. Mecum Auctions, Portland,
OR, 06/19.
#S16-1993 CHEVROLET CORVETTE ZR-1
40th Anniversary coupe. VIN: 1G1YZ23J2P5800054.
Ruby Red/Ruby Red leather. Odo:
14,000 miles. 5.7-L 405-hp fuel-injected V8,
6-sp. Factory paint shows factory orange peel
throughout, as well as polish scratching from
years of dust-offs. Original glass, trim, etc. all in
good shape for their age. Original tires are likely
in need of replacement before any real mileage
can be added. Stock LT5 engine compartment
with all GM parts. A one-owner car with all its
original paperwork and claimed original mileage.
Clean, original red interior shows no wear.
Comes with two tops. Cond: 2+.
FOMOCO
#6071-1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD convertible.
VIN: E7FH318310. Thunderbird Bronze/
white hard top/bronze vinyl. Odo: 99,304 miles.
312-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, auto. E-code example with
270-hp, dual-quad, 312-ci engine. Well restored
several years ago but now showing age. Automatic
transmission, power steering, Town &
Country radio, and Dial-O-Matic power seat.
Both tops including ’57-only “porthole” hard top.
Advertised with “factory wire wheels,” but more
likely reproduction K-H wheels that weren’t offered
until ’62 and never with red centers. Poor
door fit, but overall the best of the three ’57s
offered at the sale. Cond: 2-.
SOLD AT $44,000. 1955–57 T-birds peaked in
the 1980s, and this ‘Bird would have sold for
more then, even without adjusting for the time
value of money. Back then, the rare color of this
example alone would have given it a 25% lift.
The dual carbs, at least another 25%. Today,
those details seemed almost meaningless, as it
sold for just $2,200 more than the next closest,
common, single-carb example in about the same
condition. Current owners are begging for a remake
of “American Graffiti” to breathe some life
back into the market for these old ’Birds. A market-correct
result, but no way it could be restored
to this level at the price paid. RM Auctions,
Auburn, IN, 05/19.
SOLD AT $35,200. I’ve been waiting for the
ZR-1 to start climbing in value along with other
’90s-era specialty cars, and I think we might
#S55-1959 FORD THUNDERBIRD 2-dr hard
top. VIN: H9YH110119. White/white & red
leather. Odo: 27,558 miles. 352-ci V8, 4-bbl,
auto. Consistent panel gaps and nice paint
throughout, but trunk lid is a lighter shade of
white than both quarter panels. Some wear to
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chrome, specifically around the windshield and
side glass. Side glass surrounds show light pitting.
Original-looking engine compartment hosts
a claimed rebuilt original 352 and automatic
transmission. Aluminum Torq Thrust II wheels
are the only exterior deviation from stock. Interior
looks original as well and is in good overall
condition. Said to have new wheel cylinders and
new heater core. Cond: 3+.
483 badges on the air cleaner and fenders.
Valve-cover decals announce same. Some paint
loss in engine compartment. Cond: 3+. SOLD
AT $38,080. This car was billed as originally
being a basic high-performance Galaxie with
speed-robbing options deleted and high-performance
options added. It carried Ford’s top engine,
a 406, and was used as a tow car.
Subsequently, a rare, “experimental” 483-ci
engine is said to have been sourced from Ford’s
Grand National program. These were far more
rare than the Ford SOHCs, several of which powered
Fords in the sale. If all is true, and I suspect
it is, this Ford was very well bought. Bonhams,
Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
SOLD AT $19,250. The heater core and wheelcylinder
replacement noted here were big pluses,
as both can be problematic with any old American
car—but it also suggests this car spent a
good amount of time sitting in the not-so-distant
past, which maybe isn’t such a great thing. But it
did have a rebuilt drivetrain and had a good
overall look, so there really isn’t much to complain
about here. These bigger T-birds never had
the following that the originals did, but this one
did well here thanks to its clean appearance and
lack of any apparent needs. Well sold. Mecum
Auctions, Portland, OR, 06/19.
#176-1962 FORD GALAXIE 2-dr sedan. VIN:
2D51G163083. Corinthian White/blue cloth. Odo:
38,048 miles. 483-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, 4-sp. White
(yellowed?) paint has inclusions in various areas,
with chips and gouges along driver’s side. Some
scratches on trunk, several pits on the roof, and
excess paint with runs on the left front fender.
Front bumper appears to have been rechromed.
Body panels are straight. Delamination of windshield.
Wheels have valve stems on their backside,
a competition feature. Interior is simple;
apparently all sound deadening has been removed.
Dashboard appears in excellent shape, as
do seat covers. Door panels and trim show significant
wear on right and left. Large, black Ford
#178-1963 FORD GALAXIE 2-dr sedan. VIN:
3G51R193476. Viking Blue/blue vinyl & cloth.
Odo: 26,476 miles. 427-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, 4-sp.
Intriguing car from the featured Ford collection,
a rare and purportedly original 427 R-code in a
sleeper 2-door sedan body. Strong look of originality
throughout, with only 26k miles on odometer.
Paintwork has faded original finish that’s
hard to re-create. Body in good shape, with some
expected dings and one medium-size dent in
rear fender. Catalog describes hood, which has
slightly different color than the body, as repaired
and repainted long ago after damage from “exploding
clutch experience.” Interior looks largely
original, with seats showing fabric wear but no
splits or tears. Door panels seem newer to my
eye. Engine compartment has a few pieces that
appear refinished, such as fan shroud, but
largely looks original and fairly clean. Cond: 3-.
#180-1965 FORD GALAXIE 500
2-dr hard top. VIN: 5F66M100016.
Springtime Yellow/black vinyl. Odo: 33,185
miles. 427-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, 4-sp. Said to have
originally been built as a test bed and fitted with
Ford’s famed and rare SOHC 427. That engine
was harvested and replaced by another SOHC
during restoration. Lots of inclusions in paint
surface. Extensive orange peel of the hood, trunk
and elsewhere. Seat surfaces and side panels are
excellent. Some cracks in steering wheel. Dashboard
face and trim appear aged but minimally
damaged. Rips in console carpet. Minimal pitting
of window cranks. Euro-style Pyrex headlight
coves. Heater is only comfort option in this
bench-seat, crank-window, blackwall-shod coupe.
Cond: 3+.
9
SOLD AT $112,000. Lots of buzz and a $300k–
$400k estimate accompanied this car. The SOHC
was a fabulously powerful engine that Ford unsuccessfully
tried to homologate for NASCAR as a
response to the powerful Chrysler Hemis. It subsequently
enhanced the reputations of many
Ford drag racers. If indeed the car was built by
this earlier iteration of Ford SVO, then this was a
valuable piece, extremely well bought and likely
to garner a much higher valuation at a musclecar-centric
auction. Bonhams, Greenwich, CT,
06/19. (See profile, p. 56.)
NOT SOLD AT $30,000. Challenging sometimes
to know if a car is predominantly original
or just a worn older restoration. If the former,
then far more valuable than the latter. Bonhams
noted that there was no documentation verifying
the low mileage, but longtime original ownership
and condition supported the mileage and
originality. Several bids were announced from
the podium, but in the end the car went back
home unsold, despite being offered at no reserve
(spelled out twice in the catalog). Perplexing
indeed, and lack of serious interest possibly reflected
some doubts among Ford Galaxie experts.
Bonhams, Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
#181-1966 FORD GALAXIE 500 2-dr hard
top. VIN: 6P66R114996. Springtime Yellow &
Corinthian White/black vinyl. Odo: 23,280 miles.
427-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, 4-sp. Very rare 427 dual
quad (per the “R” in the VIN), 4-speed, part of
the “Private Ford Collection.” Decent paint in
original color combination, with mild orange
peel in places. Car locked throughout auction,
but from pressing my nose against the window it
looks like a new car inside except for significant
warpage to the armrests, likely from heat/cold
cycles in storage. Factory AM/FM radio still present.
Very clean engine compartment appears
mostly authentic, with modern battery and some
modern wiring. Some sloppy metalwork at top of
firewall, possibly per factory as it is in a location
usually hidden from view. Cond: 2-. SOLD AT
$32,480. Last year for the R-code 427 Galaxie,
which denoted dual 4-barrel carbs. Must be a
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monster to drive with no power steering or
brakes. Production and mileage documented,
but no ownership or restoration history or Marti
Report presented. The Ford muscle cars from this
collection generally underperformed at this auction
(or perhaps the auction underperformed for
the cars). The Bonhams estimate ($75k–$100k)
was aggressive, and even with the buyer’s premium,
this rare Galaxie couldn’t achieve half of
the low estimate. I would have expected it to
hammer at perhaps $45k–$55k. Additional documentation
might have been helpful. A fantastic
deal for the lucky buyer. Bonhams, Greenwich,
CT, 06/19.
#182-1966 FORD GALAXIE 7-Litre 2-dr
hard top. VIN: 6N61Q116341. Corinthian
White/black vinyl. 427-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Originally
a 7-Litre Q-code (428 4V), with, allegedly,
an engine replacement by the selling dealer following
a catastrophic failure of the 428 early in
its life. Replacement was a W-code 427 4V, which
it carries today. Original Cruise-O-Matic replaced
with top-loader 4-speed at same time. Acceptable
repaint with mild orange peel. Car locked for
duration of auction and odometer not readable
through window; mileage not stated in catalog.
Front bumper hazy, rear bumper dull and pitted,
balance of chrome trim better. Interior not bad,
but more wear to seats and dash than other ’66
Galaxie here, Lot 181. Armrests warped just like
Lot 181. Engine compartment very clean with
modern battery. Cond: 3+.
have been too much for some potential bidders.
There will always be questions, and you’ll need
to carry a signed affidavit to fully explain its
history. As such, the value is hard to determine.
Actual sales price of less than a third of the low
estimate represents a good value for the buyer,
but he likely will need that affidavit when he
becomes the seller. With power steering and
brakes remaining from the original 428 installation,
at least he does not have to be a bodybuilder
to drive it. Bonhams, Greenwich, CT,
06/19.
#6118-1968 FORD BRONCO utility. VIN:
U15NLC84878. Light blue/white hard top/white
cloth. Odo: 19 miles. 289-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. Excellent
professional body-off restoration with nice
paint in original color. Sports a 289-ci V8 engine
with mild cam. Somewhat loosely fitted seat covers.
Shaved gas door. Includes Marti Report.
Cond: 2-.
untouched. Ford-built 1968s do not have the
same cachet or value of the Shelby-built 1967
ones. I believe this was fairly and perhaps
slightly well bought. Bonhams, Greenwich,
CT, 06/19.
SOLD AT $37,400. These models have been the
darling of the auction circuit for the past few
years, but may be losing some steam. This was a
quality example that saw a higher result at the
same auction last year, when it sold for $42,900
(ACC# 6879148). RM Auctions, Auburn, IN,
05/19.
SOLD AT $22,400. Decent driver-quality 7-Litre
(and yes, at that time Ford spelled liter with an
“re”), rare in its own right in original 428 automatic
configuration. Long, convoluted story of
how car arrived at its current configuration may
124 AmericanCarCollector.com
#183-1968 SHELBY GT350 fastback. VIN:
8T02J18843802802. Lime Green Metallic/black
vinyl. Odo: 53,604 miles. 302-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp.
One of a pair of consecutively built Shelby Mustangs.
Much of car is covered by a grainy rough
finish. Over left front headlights there are several
deep scratches that do not go fully through the
paint. Panels are straight. Bumper chrome is
excellent. Several dents in older windshield trim.
Driver’s side window glass scratched. Some pitting
of side markers. Curb rash on right front
wheel. Paint loss in engine compartment. Wiring
appears proper. Seat covers look good. Much
finish loss on steering wheel. Left armrest heavily
worn and ripped. Some pitting of interior trim.
Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $68,320. The catalog
introduction states this car was beautifully restored.
The mechanic who accompanied the car
said original red oxide primer and a single-stage
paint were used. Some original items were left
Z141588. Grabber Blue/white vinyl. Odo: 14
miles. 429-ci V8, 4-bbl, 4-sp. #KK2481. Complete
restoration 10 years ago, with only 14
miles showing on reset odometer since. Superb,
concours-worthy condition overall. Body almost
flawless, trunk lid and fender fit at rockers
slightly off. Paintwork done very well, beautiful
with authentic-looking quality, and much better
than the Shelby Mustangs also offered from
same collection. One paint chip under rear window
will need attention. Interior quality also
superb, with no wrinkling in seats or headliner
that is so common. Dash, gauges and carpets all
as-new. Engine carefully done, condition reflects
no use since restoration. Underbody condition as
good and unused as the rest of the car. Cond: 1-.
7
#185-1970 FORD MUSTANG
Boss 429 fastback. VIN: 0F02-
SOLD AT $161,280. Beautiful and careful restoration,
but history of this excellent Boss 429
might have worked a little bit against it, as it
was disassembled and in limbo with previous
owner for quite awhile. Marti Report confirms
basic authenticity, though. Perfectly preserved
since restoration, Bronze Award winner at Boss
Nationals. Offered at no reserve; I call it a losing
gamble for the consignor, and a winning price
for the buyer. Bonhams, Greenwich, CT,
06/19.
#F172-1970 FORD MUSTANG Mach 1 fastback.
VIN: 0F05M183313. Black/black vinyl.
BEST
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Odo: 53,390 miles. 351-ci V8, 4-bbl, auto. Minor
polish scratching to very smooth black paint only
visible under certain lighting conditions. Fantastic
panel alignment and gaps, reproduction chrome
pieces all show well. Side and rear glass tinted,
interior shows well with clean, correct seat covers,
carpet, headliner, and dash. Engine compartment
spotless, with components painted before
assembly. A proper, well-done nut-and-bolt restoration
on a desirable model with good options.
Yakima, WA, car from new. Comes with restoration
photo book and original paperwork.
Cond: 1-.
SOLD AT $51,700. The 1969 and 1970 fastbacks
have a following among the Mustang
faithful, and this black-on-black Mach 1 was in
fantastic overall shape and had the right documentation
to bring a solid number. This price
was well above average for your basic 351-powered
’70 Mach 1, but the money was right considering
all the details that had been tended to.
Still, I’m willing to bet the resto work cost more
than what was realized here. As such, well
bought even above what you might have expected
for a ’70. Mecum Auctions, Portland,
OR, 06/19.
MOPAR
#S134-1963 PLYMOUTH SAVOY Max
Wedge 2-dr sedan. VIN: 3131141818. Blue/
blue vinyl. Odo: 10,149 miles. 426-ci V8, 2x4bbl,
3-sp. Stage 1 car, designed by Plymouth for
drag-race competition only. Said to be one of 84
fitted with a 3-speed manual transmission. Documented
with Galen Govier paperwork. Good blue
paint with some polishing marks, nice chrome
and trim. Engine compartment well detailed and
looking correct, with cross-ram dual AFB 4-bbls.
3.91 Sure Grip rear, lake-pipe exhaust dumps
and radio delete. Vintage American Racing mag
wheels. Cond: 2+. SOLD AT $60,500. Built
when winning on Sunday actually translated into
sales the rest of the week—even if the winning
car was some high-test monster and most of the
sales were slant-6 grocery getters. Mopars from
126 AmericanCarCollector.com
this era are saddled with faces only a mother
could love, but they were the brand to beat on
the track, and doing so became increasingly
challenging throughout the early part of the
1960s thanks to cars like this one. Designed for
Super Stock glory, only a few Max Wedge cars
were built, and documented examples tend to be
worth plenty to the match-race faithful. That
said, this one had been shopped around a bit,
last sold for $40,700 at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale
event in January (ACC# 6892894). Very
well bought then, still well bought now. Mecum
Auctions, Portland, OR, 06/19.
AMERICANA
#114-1947 PACKARD CUSTOM SUPER
CLIPPER sedan. VIN: 21226676. Black/tan
fabric. miles. 356-ci I8, 1-bbl, 3-sp. Older paint
with chips around the front of the hood, right
door ding, extensive right rear fender craquelure
and blemish left rear fender. Grille shows oxidation
and looks as if it needs complete refinishing.
Front bumper chrome has mild pitting. Screw
missing on left front blinker. Extensive pitting of
left headlight surround. Delamination of several
windows. Cracked right front window. Significant
pitting and rust of window trim. Carpet shows
age and wear. Some pitting of dashboard
chrome and interior trim. Engine block has been
repainted. Gas stains on carburetor. Cond: 3.
but largely presentable from 10 or more feet.
The value here is as an inexpensive gateway into
CCCA events, and for that reason, it is considered
well bought, with perhaps a bit of upside. Bonhams,
Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
#6076-1955 HUDSON METROPOLITAN Series
II coupe. VIN: E15985. Canyon Red &
white/tan cloth. Odo: 9,326 miles. 73-ci I4, 1-bbl,
3-sp. Despite some slightly wavy panels, this was
among the better Metropolitan restorations I
have seen. Excellent paint, good door fit, rechromed
or replaced trim throughout, and a
detailed engine compartment. Cond: 2+.
SOLD AT $26,400. “Fascinating” doesn’t begin
to describe Metropolitan automobile history:
Pinin Farina design, a British-built U.S. import,
unibody construction, simplistic design, badged
by Hudson, Nash, AMC, and as a standalone
model, and targeted primarily to women. The
Metro by itself gives enough fodder to feed an
entire semester’s worth of college marketingclass
curriculum. Despite these innovative elements,
nothing trumps the “cuteness” factor that
drives the market for these diminutive rides. This
was among the better examples available and
deservedly achieved a price toward top of the
market. RM Auctions, Auburn, IN, 05/19.
SOLD AT $9,520. Presented as a great driver
and an award-winning HPOF (Historic Preservation
of Original Features) car. Lots of blemishes,
#170-1955 PACKARD CARIBBEAN convertible.
VIN: 55881254. White Jade, Fire Opal &
Onyx/Vermillion & white leather. Odo: 23,344
miles. 352-ci V8, 2x4-bbl, auto. An apparently
original, unrestored car, which is supported by its
condition. Worn and chapped paint. Most chrome
hazy and patinated but not rusty. Some deteriorated
gaskets. Vent windows starting to delaminate,
but windshield is excellent and likely has
been replaced. All-important convertible top not
seen and not shown in catalog or online. Interior
leather worn, with significant cracking on front
seat, but is intact and not torn. Dashpad is excellent
(presumably replaced at some point) but
needs cleaning. Interior hardware mostly quite
good. Engine compartment not seen but presumably
is consistent with rest of car (i.e. worn but
serviceable). Cond: 3+. SOLD AT $29,120. The
Caribbean was Packard’s “halo” dreamboat for
1953–56. Only 500 1955 Caribbeans were built.
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As presented, this really did appear to be a basically
original car with some discreet projects
(windshield, dashpad) done over the years. Values
of big American cruisers of the ’50s have
generally been on the decline for at least a couple
of years, and the Caribbean is no exception.
Still, if you like this model and patinated original
cars, this was a solid value and leaves room
for buyer to perform the inevitable mechanical
projects which will arise. Fairly bought and sold.
Bonhams, Greenwich, CT, 06/19.
#S128-1978 JEEP CJ-7 Golden Eagle SUV.
VIN: J8F93AH027651. Alpine White/tan vinyl/tan
cloth. Odo: 16,301 miles. 304-ci V8, 2-bbl, auto.
Clean restoration of a Levi’s Edition Golden Eagle
with all the proper decals and colors. Claimed
$89,000 spent in restoration work, including nice,
smooth white paint with no issues other than a
funky tape line around original VIN plate on
dash. Interior clean and correct, later Jeepbranded
stereo head unit fitted. Top fits well and
looks OE. Original wheels powder coated instead
of painted. Nicely done engine compartment
looks completely stock. Cond: 2+.
PUT YOURSELF IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT
WITH ACC PREMIUM!
NOT SOLD AT $27,000. There was a lot to like
here, but there was never any way this was going
to recoup its claimed restoration bill. That said,
Golden Eagles aren’t all that common, and neither
are Levi’s interiors today, so this drew a fair
amount of attention at the auction. But despite
that attention, Jeeps have had a hard time
climbing onto the vintage-SUV price craze set by
first-gen Broncos, and I don’t see that changing
anytime soon. Too bad, as this Jeep deserved
more than was bid here. Mecum Auctions,
Portland, OR, 06/19.A
www.americancarcollector.com/premium
The Insider’s Authority on Collector Car Values
Auction results on over 297,000 vehicles compiled over 30 years
Graphs, price trends, photos and more
Special pricing for ACC subscribers
September–October 2019 127
Page 126
THE PARTS HUNTER
Pat Smith
The Good, the Bad and the Steal
Research saves you money when buying parts
#362654041137 1967–72 Big-Block Chevy Exhaust Manifolds w/Smog. 2 photos. Item
condition: Used. eBay Motors. Geneva, IL. May 30, 2019.
“This is a nice used set of big-block exhaust manifolds for cars with smog. These fit 1967–72
GM Chevrolet cars. Part numbers: 3916178/3909879. I just picked these up at a swapmeet last
weekend. They have some surface rust, but other than that they are very nice.”
Sold at $199.
You can get repros of these for $385 each, so this set was a steal if the pieces aren’t cracked.
Smog manifolds were part of GM’s A.I.R. system, which included an air pump, steel lines from the
manifold to the pump, and a burp valve. Only California cars got these in 1967, and later on 49state
cars got them as well. Since the date codes are a year apart, they’re likely going to be sealed
up and used on a driver, or maybe one will be traded for a correct matching-date-code manifold.
Price paid was great as long as you know what you’re getting into.
#283453357491 Pontiac GTO Sparkomatic transmission floor shifter. 8 photos. Item condition:
Used. eBay Motors. Walnut Bottom, PA. April 19, 2019.
“This was an estate find; it was stored in garage and had rodent
damage to instructions/packaging. Some staining and oxidation in
places. Some warping to surrounding plate. Looks to have never
been installed. Not sure if complete, but looks to be close if not.”
Sold at $44.97.
Our older readers will recall an era when Sparkomatic made
speed parts instead of car radios. The Pocono Mountains-based
firm started out making manual-transmission shifters in 1962,
adding automatic shifters, traction bars and a range of electronic
goodies like tachs, wire looms and radio speakers. Sparkomatic
moved aggressively into car stereos starting in 1971 and let the
auto-speed-parts business lapse. Sparkomatic vanished during
a buyout of Altec Lansing in the 1990s. Just look at the bottom
of the shifter lever. Sparkomatic quality matched the first-time
hot-rodder with small budget. Premium price paid for a budget
speed part.
#333173728153 1972–73 Dodge
D100 D200 grille. 12 photos. Item
condition: Used. eBay Motors. Sussex,
WI. May 4, 2019.
“1972–73 Dodge pick up D100, D200
grille with headlight bezels. It has some
dings and dents as seen in pictures.
Could use some polishing, but still has a
good shine. The grille bars are straight, no cracks. Getting very hard to find these grilles. Overall good
driver quality.”
Sold at $160.
Early-’70s Mopar trucks are popular, but getting replacement body parts can be a challenge. No one
is reproducing the early Adventurer grilles, so finding a good one takes time. Dodge changed these
parts every couple of years, and fortunately, they don’t cost an arm and a leg. Price paid is decent for
a driver and will do until a primo piece comes up. Lots of vintage pickups are driven with patina, so
condition isn’t a big issue here. This should be easy to sell down the road.
128 AmericanCarCollector.com
#264322718412 1965-1970 Mustang rear
fold-down seat. 8 photos. Item condition:
Used. eBay Motors. Worcester, MA. May 24, 2019.
“Here is an original Ford fold-down rear seat.
Fits 1965 through 1970 but is period-correct for a
1965–66 Mustang. Poor chrome with some pitting
and a few dings. Panels themselves are clean and
rust-free. This was removed from a ’65 or ’66.
Being a ’65 fold-down, it only has one side-latch
catch, as all ’65–’66s have only one side latch.”
Sold at $355.
The folding-rear-seat option for early
Mustangs was ultra cool and offered only on
the fastback models. Later on, they called it the
Sports Deck rear seat. It was a useful feature
since the trunks on these cars were miniscule to
start with. It has since become an integral part
of the fastback/hatchback Mustang experience
and has historical importance.
Reproductions of the folding rear seats are
available for the 1967–70 versions with twin
latches but are an eye-watering $1,200, plus
shipping. Then you have to add upholstery
and carpeting. This was a very good deal for a
fastback missing a rear seat. A
Page 128
JUNKYARD TREASURES
Phil Skinner
Vintage Mopar Heaven
Moore’s Auto Salvage has one of the largest selections of pre-war Dodge automobiles and parts around
If you love pre-war Dodges,
head for South Dakota
I
n 1988, the father-and-son team of Francis and
Russell Moore established Moore’s Auto Salvage.
Today, the business, which is run by Russell along
with his wife, Alice, and son Marc, has a loyal
customer base from around the world.
The business is situated on 20 acres just north
of Rapid City, SD, and about 90% of the vehicles in
stock are Chryslers, Dodges, DeSotos, Plymouths and
Imperials. Marc Moore says they have about 1,350
vehicles.
In addition to the strictly parts cars on hand, I saw
nearly 150 complete vehicles that were available for
purchase — many of
these brands other than
Mopar favorites. Without
qualification, Moore’s
Auto Salvage has one of
the largest inventories
of pre-World War II-era
Dodges, with many examples
dating back over
100 years.
“My grandfather
Detailing
What: Moore’s Auto
Salvage
Where: 1761 Country Rd,
Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: 605-348-4926
E-mail: parts.mas@
midconetwork.com
When: Monday–Friday, 9
a.m.–5 p.m.; Saturday,
9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Web: www.mooresautosalvage.com
loved Dodge cars from
the 1920s,” Marc Moore
said, “That’s why we
have so many here.
That’s what Grandpa
liked. I like them too. That’s why my summer car is a
1924 Dodge touring car.”
While most of Moore’s business is conducted
either on the Internet or over the phone, customers are
welcome to travel to Rapid City and pay a visit. A
130 AmericanCarCollector.com
Trucks are a big part of Moore’s Auto Salvage, from early 1950s “Pilot House”
models to these mid-1970s pickups with Club Cab capacity
Keeping with a family tradition, third-generation Marc Moore proudly drives this
1924 Dodge touring car around Rapid City during the warmer summer months
Page 129
This collection of rechromed bumpers includes
various makes from the 1960s and 1970s, all gleaming
brightly, and most wrapped securely and priced
quite reasonably
Among some of the non-Mopar complete vehicles
available at Moore’s Auto Salvage is this 1962
Chevrolet Corvair 95 van, ready to go to a new
home
A few station wagons are on the grounds of Moore’s Auto Salvage, such as this
1958 Plymouth Custom Suburban
September–October 2019 131
Page 130
SHOWCASE GALLERY
Sell Your Car Here! Includes ACC website listing.
Showcase Gallery color photo ad just $66/month
($88 non-subscribers)
Text-Only Classified ad just $15/month
($25 non-subscribers)
Three ways to submit your ad:
Web: Visit americancarcollector.com/classifieds/place-ad to upload your photo
(300 dpi jpg) and text, or text only. Secure online VISA/MC payments.
Email: Send photo (300 dpi jpg) and text, or text only, to classifieds@
americancarcollector.com. We will contact you for payment information.
Snail mail: ACC Showcase, PO Box 4797, Portland, OR 97208-4797,
with VISA/MC or check.
50 words max, subject to editing. Deadline: 1st of each month, one month
prior to publication.
Advertisers assume all liability for the content of their advertisements. The publisher of
American Car Collector Magazine is not responsible for any omissions, erroneous, false
and/or misleading statements of its advertisers.
GM
1954 Cadillac Fleetwood 60 Special
sedan
1958 Chevrolet Impala 348 Tri-Power
2-dr hard top
S/N 136370F100042. Cranberry Red/black.
88,111 miles. V8, automatic. Only known
existing Pilot prototype Chevelle coupe as of
12/31/2018. Engineering test car at Milford,
MI. Prototype parts not utilized in restoration
included in sale. Delivered to Ver Hoven
Chevrolet in Detroit, MI, after testing. Fully
documented ownership history spanning
nearly 40 years. View entire history of #42
online. Highly desirable SS 396 configuration.
$255,000. Pilot Car Registry. Contact
Logan, Ph: 620.200.6607, email: pilotcarregistry@gmail.com.
Website: pilotcarregistry.
com/396-ss-assembly-prototype.html. (KS)
1976 Cadillac Eldorado convertible
S/N 546035313. Ruskin Blue & Alpine
White/82,100 miles. V8, 3-spd automatic.
An exceptionally well cared for and always
completely rust-free example of this mostly
all-original Fleetwood Sixty Special with
331/250-hp V8. Finished in Ruskin Blue, the
1955 equivalent of its original factory beautiful
Viking Blue, over Alpine White roof (color
code S3) with a gorgeous condition matching
two-tone all new navy blue with Silver Blue
inserts soft Sierra leather interior, dealerinstalled
a/c, ps, pw and power seat. $32,500
OBO. West Coast Classics LLC. Contact
Larry, Ph: 310.779.0526, email: wcclassics@
aol.com. Website: www.WestCoastClassics.
com. (CA)
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Fuelie 2-dr
hard top
S/N E58J133561. Cay Coral & Honey
Beige/tri-tone. 55,638 miles. V8, automatic.
Absolutely exceptional, great daily driving
and completely rust-free. Frame-off restoration
with every nut and bolt replaced. Very
few miles added since being restored. Bigblock
348 V8 Sport Coupe with desirable TriPower
Rochester setup and automatic transmission
in a beautiful two-tone Cay Coral
over Honey Beige color. Absolutely beautiful
all-new matching tri-tone textured fabric and
vinyl upholstery interior with Impala competition-inspired
steering wheel and color-keyed
interior. $57,500 OBO. West Coast Classics
LLC. Contact Larry, Ph: 424.376.5151, email:
wcclassics@aol.com. Website: www.WestCoastClassics.com.
(CA)
1958 Chevrolet Impala 2-dr hard top
S/N 6L67S6Q244182. Firethorn Metallic/
Dark Firethorn Leather. 952 miles. V8, 4-spd
automatic. An absolutely stunning, exceptional
and completely rust-free example
of this last-year Eldorado convertible with
parade boot and all original factory specifications
including original 500-ci V8 engine. An
undocumented, but as stated and confirmed
by its previous original ownership and quite
obvious condition, 952 (yes, nine-hundred
fifty-two) original miles! $42,500. West
Coast Classics, LLC. Contact Larry, Ph:
424.376.5151, email: wcclassics@aol.com.
Website: www.WestCoastClassics.com. (CA)
2011 Cadillac CTS-V coupe
S/N VC57K115455. Black/red & black. V8,
3-spd manual. Frame-off restoration of rare
283-ci/283-hp Fuelie (one of approximately
1,530), column-shift close-ratio 3-speed,
power steering, full wheel covers with spinners,
dual exhaust, heater and AM/FM.
Excellent paint and chrome, mechanically
sorted and drives great. Outstanding restoration
of KC-built high-performance classic.
$94,000. Contact Kerry, Ph: 281.630.6718,
email: kbonner51@gmail.com. (TX)
132 AmericanCarCollector.com
S/N F58N2117154. Alpine White/Tri-Tone.
39,533 miles. V8, 2-spd automatic. Real
legitimate 348 Impala with three deuces on
it. It has all the correct numbers and details.
Originally bought in North Carolina with
original mileage. Ray Evernham Enterprises
went completely through the front end of
the car. Have a vintage new a/c unit that
can be installed. $60,000. Ray Evernham
Enterprises Marketplace. Contact Chet, Ph:
7048587496, email: reemarketplace@gmail.
com. Website: www.rayevernhamenterprisesmarketplace.com.
(NC)
S/N XS29L8B251522. Black/black. V8,
automatic. Restored and completely rust-free
original factory R/T Charger with a datecorrect
big-block Magnum 440-ci, modified
with high-performance upgrades in 2016
and making over 500 hp (engine casting
#2536430), rebuilt 727 TorqueFlite automatic
transmission, dual exhaust and handling
package with custom upgrades. The original
factory 727 automatic transmission was
rebuilt and now has an added Gear Vendor
overdrive. $79,500 OBO. West Coast Classics
LLC. Contact Larry, Ph: 424.376.5151,
email: info@westcoastclassics.com. Website:
www.WestCoastClassics.com. (CA)
1971 Plymouth ’Cuda custom 2-dr
hard top
1966 Buick Skylark convertible
car since day one. Purchased from DeVoe
Cadillac in Naples, FL. Richard Solomon,
Artists Representative. Contact Richard, Ph:
917.841.1333, email: richardsolomonnyc@
gmail.com. (NY)
MOPAR
Saddle Mist/Light Fawn. 126,000 miles.
V8, automatic. Excellent condition, original
interior, drivetrain and arrow-straight sheetmetal.
One repaint 20 years ago, still shows
like new. PS, pb and power top. Looks and
drives beautifully! $35,000. Contact Martin,
Ph: 401.742.1360, email: Martscar4@aol.
com.
1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396
prototype coupe
S/N 7511781. Green/green. 0 miles. Inline
8, manual. An absolutely exceptional example
of this extraordinarily rare Full Classic
124-inch dual-cowl phaeton with original
coachwork by Locke & Company of New
York. Original 261-ci 88-hp 8-cylinder engine
and 4-speed non-synchromesh transmission.
Hydraulic brakes and beautifully presented
in a stunning two-tone green paint with all
body panels obviously removed, stripped
and media blasted prior to being restored.
Beautiful chrome, light lenses and grille, and
a gorgeous matching green leather interior.
West Coast Classics LLC. Contact Simon,
Ph: 310.779.0526, email: wcclassics@aol.
com. Website: www.WestCoastClassics.
com. (CA)
1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 custom
2-dr hard top
1931 Chrysler CD 2nd Series
dual-cowl phaeton
S/N 1G6DV1EP1B0119289. Red
Obsession/Obsidian Black. 28,900 miles. V8,
automatic. Powered by a 556-hp, 6.2-liter
V8, paired to a 6-speed autobox with paddle
shifters on the steering wheel. Two-owner
car with low miles on the odometer. All Vs
came with the Corvette 6.2-liter engine that
pulled a 4.1-seconds 0–60 time. I purchased
an extended GM Protection Plan Major
Guard Coverage Warranty, which expires on
7/13/2019. A1 condition, close-to-flawless exterior
and interior. I would rate it as a 1- car.
Complete service history is available for this
S/N BH23C1B166076. Plum Crazy/black.
67 miles. V8, 6-spd manual. Gorgeously
restored and completely rust-free resto-mod/
tribute with a date-correct and rebuilt & modified
440/500-plus-hp V8 engine matched to
a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission with
Pistol-Grip shifter and center console in stunning
Plum Crazy with matte-black side-body
billboards. $105,000 OBO. West Coast Classics,
LLC. Contact Larry, Ph: 424.376.5151,
email: wcclassics@aol.com. Website: www.
WestCoastClassics.com. (CA)A
Page 131
It’s so
easy!
We’ve made
uploading your
Showcase
Gallery listings
online easier.
As an added
bonus, we now
feature multiple
images for our
web listings.
www.AmericanCarCollector.com/classifieds/place-ad
ADVERTISERS INDEX
Barrett-Jackson...................................................99
Blue Bars ..........................................................133
Branson Collector Car Auction ............................23
Bring A Trailer ....................................................79
Camaro Central ..................................................75
CarCapsule USA ..................................................77
CarTech, Inc ......................................................125
Charlotte AutoFair ............................................111
Chevs of the 40’s .................................................89
Classic Auto Mall ...............................................139
Corvette America .............................................. 4-5
Custom Autosound Mfg., Inc .............................127
Electric Garage Auctions - Canada .....................33
Electric Garage Inc. .............................................32
Evapo-Rust..........................................................37
Factory Five Racing.............................................29
Greensboro Auto Auction....................................73
Grundy Insurance ...............................................21
Hagerty Insurance Agency, Inc. ..........................69
JC Taylor ...........................................................103
JJ Best Banc & Co .............................................117
JJ Rods ................................................................95
Larry’s Thunderbird and Mustang Parts ..............2
Leake Auction Company .......................................3
Lucas Oil Products, Inc. .....................................109
Lucky Collector Car Auctions ...............................19
Lutty’s Chevy Warehouse ..................................129
McCollister’s Auto Transport .............................140
Michael Irvine Studios ........................................83
National Corvette Museum ...............................101
National Corvette Restorers Society ..................131
National Parts Depot ..........................................27
Obsolete & Classic Auto Parts, Inc. .....................31
Original Parts Group ..........................................39
P.J.’s Auto World ................................................71
Palm Springs Exotic Car Auctions .......................17
Passport Transport .............................................67
Performance Racing Oils ..................................106
Petersen Collector Car Auction ...........................92
POR-15 ...............................................................25
Restoration Supply Company ...........................101
RM Sotheby’s ......................................................13
Ronald McDonald House ..................................107
Russo and Steele LLC ....................................... 6-7
SEMA ................................................................121
Silver Collector Car Auctions .............................105
Spring Grove Auction Company..........................43
Steve’s Auto Restorations Inc..............................45
Streetside Classics ...............................................11
Summit Racing Equipment .................................85
Tom Mack Classics ..............................................15
West Coast Classics, LLC ....................................129
Zip Products, Inc. ................................................47
zMAX ...................................................................49
September–October 2019 133
Page 132
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Advertising/Marketing
Put your company in the ACC Resource Directory. Call 877-219-2605 Ext. 218,
or email advert@americancarcollector.com
Motorwerks Marketing. 480-2281881.
Founded on a passion for
the special interest, classic and
collector automotive marketplace,
Motorwerks is a full-service marketing
and creative agency. With
a focus on crafting a high impact,
highly effective, budget- and timesensitive
message, Motorwerks
brings a level of industry expertise
that is tailor made to meet your
brand’s objectives. We only
service clients in the Specialty
Automotive arena and like you,
our team are first and foremost
true automotive enthusiasts. Ask
us what we can do for you! Info@
MotorwerksMarketing.com www.
MotorwerksMarketing.com (AZ)
Auction Companies
Barrett-Jackson Auction. 480421-6694.
480-421-6697. For over
four decades, the Barrett-Jackson
Auction Company has been
recognized throughout the world
for offering only the finest selection
of quality collector vehicles, outstanding
professional service and
an unrivaled sales success. From
classic and one-of-a-kind cars to
exotics and muscle cars, BarrettJackson
attracts only the best. Our
auctions have captured the true
essence of a passionate obsession
with cars that extends to collectors
and enthusiasts throughout
the world. A television audience
of millions watches unique and
select vehicles while attendees
enjoy a lifestyle experience featuring
fine art, fashion and gourmet
cuisine. In every way, the legend
is unsurpassed. N. Scottsdale Rd,
Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
info@barrett-jackson.com.
www.barrett-jackson.com. (AZ)
Bonhams is the largest auction
house to hold scheduled sales
of classic and vintage motorcars,
134 AmericanCarCollector.com
motorcycles and car memorabilia,
with auctions held globally in
conjunction with internationally
renowned motoring events.
Bonhams holds the world-record
price for any motorcar sold at auction,
as well as for many premier
marques.
San Francisco: 415-391-4000
New York: 212-644-9001
Los Angeles: 323-850-7500
London: +44 20 7447-7447
Paris: +33 1 42 61 10 10
www.bonhams.com/motors
Marymount, home to the Lemay
Family Collection Foundation
near Tacoma, WA, the collection,
formerly the biggest in the world
according to Guinness, now hosts
an unrivaled event center, art collection
and charitable foundation,
which features two exceptional
collector car auctions a year.
www.luckyoldcar.com (WA)
Gooding & Company. 310-8991960.
310.899.0930. Gooding &
Company offers its international
clientele the rarest, award-winning
examples of collector vehicles
at the most prestigious auction
venues. Our team of well-qualified
experts will advise you on current
market values. Gooding &
Company presents the official
auction of the famed Pebble
Beach Concours d’Elegance
in August, the record-setting
Scottsdale Auction in January and
a world-class auction at the Omni
Amelia Island Plantation in Florida
in March. www.goodingco.com.
(CA)
594-4418. Presented by the Owls
Head Transportation Museum, the
New England Auto Auction™ is
the nation’s largest and longestrunning
event in its class that
operates solely to preserve the
legacy of transportation’s earliest
pioneers. Over more than four
decades, NEAA™ has continuously
raised the bar by connecting
discerning enthusiasts and collectors
with rare and sought-after
automobiles.
Web: www.owlshead.org
Email: auction@ohtm.org
New England Auto Auction. 207-
Premier Auction Group.
844-5WE-SELL. The auction professionals
that have been taking
care of you for the last two decades
have partnered together to
create a team that is dedicated to
providing the utmost customer
service and auction experience.
We applied our 83 years of auction
experience to build a platform
ensuring that every aspect of our
company exceeds your expectations.
Join us for the Gulf Coast
Classic March 17 & 18, in Punta
Gorda, FL.
844-5WE-SELL / 844-593-7355
www.premierauctiongroup.com
info@premierauctiongroup.com
RM Sotheby’s, Inc. 800-2114371.
RM Sotheby’s is the world’s
largest collector car auction house
for investment-quality automobiles.
With 35 years’ experience, RM
Sotheby’s vertically integrated
range of services, from restoration
to private-treaty sales and
auctions, coupled with an expert
team of car specialists and an
international footprint, provide an
unsurpassed level of service to the
global collector car market.
www.RMSothebys.com. (CAN)
Leake Auctions. 800-722-9942.
Leake Auction Company was
established in 1972 as one of the
first car auctions in the country.
More than 40 years later, Leake
has sold over 34,000 cars and
currently operates auctions in
Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Dallas.
Recently they have been featured
on several episodes of three
different reality TV series — “Fast
N Loud” on Discovery, “Dallas Car
Sharks” on Velocity and “The Car
Chasers” on CNBC Prime.
www.leakecar.com. (OK)
Palm Springs Auctions Inc.
Keith McCormick. 760-320-3290.
Family owned and operated for
28 years. Producing two large
classic car auctions per year in
Palm Springs, CA. Each auction
features over 500 cars. Held in
November and February every
year. www.classic-carauction.com
Lucky Collector Car Auctions.
888-672-0020. Lucky Collector
Car Auctions is aptly named after
Harold “Lucky” Lemay. Based in
the majestic, pastoral ground of
Petersen Auction Group of
Oregon. 541-689-6824. Hosting
car auctions in Oregon since 1962.
We have three annual Auctions:
February—Oregon State
Fairgrounds, Salem, OR; July—
Douglas County Fairgrounds,
Roseburg, OR; September—
Oregon State Fairgrounds, Salem,
OR. On the I-5 corridor. We offer
knowledgeable, fast, friendly “hassle-free”
transactions. Oregon’s #1
Collector Car Auction. www.petersencollectorcars.com
(OR)
Russo and Steele Collector
Automobiles. 602-252-2697.
Specializing in the finest American
muscle, hot rods and custom
automobiles and European sports;
Russo and Steele hosts three
record-breaking auctions per year;
Newport Beach in June; Monterey,
CA, every August; and Scottsdale,
AZ, every January. As one of
the premier auction events in the
United States, Russo and Steele
has developed a reputation for its
superior customer service and for
having the most experienced and
informed experts in the industry.
Fax: 602.252.6260.
7722 East Gray Road, Suite C
Scottsdale, AZ 85260.
info@russoandsteele.com,
www.russoandsteele.com. (AZ)
Page 133
service of your rare, sports, exotic,
luxury, collector or classic car
needs. www.WestCoastClassics.
com info@WestCoastClassics.
com (CA)
Classic Car Transport
W. Yoder Auction. 920-787-5549.
W. Yoder Auction holds the only
semi-annual collector car auction
in the state of Wisconsin open
to the public where anyone can
buy and anyone can sell! But we
don’t stop there. We specialize in
collections and sell it all! Contact
us today. info@wyoderauction.
com. Learn more about us at
wyoderauction.com and like us on
Facebook.
Worldwide Auctioneers. 866273-6394.
Established by John
Kruse and Rod C. Egan, The
Worldwide Group—Auctioneers,
Appraisers and Brokers—is one
of the world’s premier auction
houses, specializing in the
procurement and sale of the
world’s finest automobiles
and vintage watercraft. www.
worldwide-auctioneers.com. (IN)
Buy/Sell/General
Mustang America. 844-249-5135.
Mustang America is a new company
initially specializing in first
generation (1965–1973) Mustang
parts, interiors and accessories.
Launched by Corvette America,
Mustang America provides the
same level of world-class customer
service, product quality and
fast delivery. We look forward to
serving the vintage Mustang enthusiast.
www.MustangAmerica.com (PA)
Park Place LTD. 425-562-1000.
Founded in 1987 in Bellevue, WA,
our dealership is locally owned and
independently operated. The fouracre
Park Place Center features
an Aston Martin sales and service
center, a Lotus dealership, and we
have one of the largest selections
of collector & exotic cars available
in the Northwest. We consign, buy
and sell all types of vehicles. We
also have an in-house service center
and high-end Auto Salon.
www.ParkPlaceLtd.com (WA)
Intercity Lines Inc. 800-221-3936.
Gripping the wheel of your dream
car and starting the engine for the
first time is a high point for any
enthusiast. We are the premier
enclosed auto transport company
that will ensure your car arrives
safely for that experience. For over
35 years our standards for excellence
have clients returning time
and time again. Trust the Best.
Trust Intercity Lines.
www.Intercitylines.com.
Reliable Carriers Inc. 800-5216393.
As the country’s largest
enclosed-auto transport company,
Reliable Carriers faithfully serves
all 48 contiguous United States
and Canada. Whether you’ve entered
a concours event, need a
relocation, are attending a corporate
event or shipping the car of
your dreams from one location to
another, one American transportation
company does it all.
www.reliablecarriers.com
Collection Management
McCollister’s Auto Transport.
800-748-3160.
California Car Cover Company.
800-423-5525. More than just
custom-fit car covers, California
Car Cover is the home of complete
car care and automotive lifestyle
products. Offering the best in car
accessories, garage items, detailing
products, nostalgic collectibles,
apparel and more! Call 1-800-4235525
or visit Calcarcover.com for a
free catalog.
Copley Motorcars. 781-444-4646.
Specializing in unique and
hard-to-find classics and sports
cars. We only sell cars we love
ourselves, and deal in a limited
number of models. Before delivery
to you, all of our classics, including
Defenders, are fully inspected
and serviced by one of two
expert shops. We are located in
Needham, MA.
copleycars@gmail.com,
www.copleymotorcars.com (MA)
RCC Motors. 800-520-7087.
Located in Irvine, CA, we specialize
in classic, exotics, customs
and motorsports. We have a staff
of experts with long careers in the
automotive field and offer sales,
service, consignment and storage.
Please contact us today.
www.rccmotors.com (CA)
We have transported thousands of
collector vehicles over the past 35
years all across the United States,
whether they are moving an
exotic, street rod, vintage racer or
muscle car. With our experienced
drivers trained to ensure the finest
protection and our customized,
lift-gated, air-ride trailers, we make
sure your vehicle safely arrives
on time. www.McCollisters.com/
AutoTransport
Blackhawk Collection, Inc. 925
736-3444. One of the world’s foremost
companies specializing in
buying and selling classic cars for
clients around the globe for over
45 years. Over the years, many of
the greatest cars in the world have
passed through the doors of the
Blackhawk Collection. Visit our
website at www.blackhawkcollection.com
West Coast Classics. 424376-5151.
West Coast Classics
are internationally renowned
California Classic Car Dealers who
specialize in buying and selling
of rare and classic European and
American classic cars. Southern
California location at 1205 Bow
Avenue in Torrance. We ship
throughout the world and will
provide you with unparalleled
Passport Transport. 800-7360575.
Since our founding in 1970,
we have shipped thousands of
treasured vehicles door-to-door
with our fully enclosed auto transporters.
Whether your prized possession
is your daily driver, a
vintage race car, a classic, a ’60s
muscle car or a modern exotic,
you can depend on Passport
Transport to give you the premium
service it deserves. We share your
appreciation for fine automobiles,
and it shows.
www.PassportTransport.com.
RideCache. 512-751-8450.
A professional, ad-free software
tool and service that helps you
manage your collection, digitally
preserve your valuable documentation
and securely share with
those that need access. Manage
your collection with our DIY tools
or use our RideCache Build service
and let our professional team
build your account. Learn more at
http://ridecache.com/ACC
RideCache – Organize, Manage,
Preserve your Collection.
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ACC
September–October 2019 135
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Corvette Parts &
Restoration
Paragon Corvette
Reproductions. 800-882-4688. At
Paragon, you’ll receive the finest
quality of 1953–96 Corvette parts
and experience in the industry.
Our catalogs and website are filled
with hundreds of helpful schematics,
photos and tech-tips. Our
Vintage Department has a treasure
chest of NOS and used parts.
Look up our Stick With Us
Discount Program and our firstonline-order
savings. Call us or
visit www.paragoncorvette.com
to order today. (MI)
The Quail, A Motorsports
Gathering. 831-620-8879.
A prominent component of
Monterey Car Week, The Quail
is a world-renowned motorsports
event featuring one of the world’s
finest and rarest collections of
vintage automobiles and motorcycles.
The Quail maintains its
intimacy and exclusivity by limiting
admission through lottery ticket
allocations. Admission is inclusive
of six gourmet culinary pavilions,
caviar, oysters, fine wines,
specialty cocktails, champagne,
and more. Web: signatureevents.
peninsula.com. (CA)
Zip Products. 800-962-9632. Zip
customers know that the voice on
the other end of the phone is a
true enthusiast. Someone who, in
minutes, can hold in their hands
any item in stock. Further, someone
with knowledge of, experience
with, and genuine affection for, the
car we hold so dear: Corvette.
www.zip-corvette.com (VA)
Events—Concours,
Car Shows
Insurance
Hagerty Collector Car
Insurance. 800-922-4050.
Collector cars aren’t like their latemodel
counterparts. These classics
actually appreciate in value,
so standard market policies that
cost significantly more won’t do
the job. We’ll agree on a fair value
and cover you for the full amount.
No prorated claims, no hassles, no
games. www.hagerty.com (MI)
J.C. Taylor Insurance. 800-3458290.
Antique, classic, muscle or
modified — J.C. Taylor Insurance
has provided dependable, dynamic,
affordable protection for
your collector vehicle for over 50
years. Agreed Value Coverage in
the continental U.S., and Alaska.
Drive Through Time With Peace of
Mind with J.C. Taylor Insurance.
Get a FREE instant quote online at
www.JCTaylor.com. (PA)
American Collectors Insurance.
1-866-887-8354. The nation’s
leading provider of specialty insurance
for collectors. We offer affordable,
agreed-value coverage
for all years, makes, and models
of collector vehicles. Since 1976,
we have provided superior service
and broad, flexible coverage.
Experience our quick quoting and
application process, as well as our
“Real Person” Guarantee every
time you call. Email: Info@
AmericanCollectors.com
www.AmericanCollectors.com (NJ)
Lajollaconcours.com. Earning
the reputation as one of the
finest internationally renowned
classic automobile showcases
in the United States, the La Jolla
Concours d’Elegance continues to
attract discerning car enthusiasts
from around the globe. Experience
World Class Cars and World Class
Experience on April 17–19, 2020.
Register and purchase tickets
at lajollaconcours.com, or call
619.233.5008, for more information.
(CA)
Leasing-Finance
Putnam Leasing. 866-90-LEASE.
For over 25 years, Putnam
Leasing has been the leader in
exotic, luxury, and collector car
leasing. This honor comes from
Putnam’s unique ability to match
the car of your dreams with a
lease designed just for you. Every
Putnam Lease is written to provide
maximum flexibility while conserving
capital, lowering monthly
payments, and maximizing tax
advantages. It’s Putnam’s way of
letting you drive more car for less
money. For leases ranging from
$50,000 to more than $1 million,
with terms extending up to 84
months, visit www.putnamleasing.
com or call 1-866-90-LEASE. (CT)
Museums
Put your company in the ACC Resource Directory. Call 877-219-2605 Ext. 218,
or email advert@americancarcollector.com
J.J. BEST BANC & CO. provides
financing on classic cars ranging
from 1900 to today. Visit our website
at www.jjbest.com or call
1-800-USA-1965 and get a loan
approval in as little as five minutes!
Grundy Insurance. 888-6478639.
James A. Grundy invented
Agreed Value Insurance in 1947;
no one knows more about insuring
collector cars than Grundy! With
no mileage limitations, zero deductible*,
low rates, and high liability
limits, our coverages are
specifically designed for collector
car owners. Grundy can also insure
your daily drivers, pickup
trucks, trailers, motorhomes and
more — all on one policy and all at
their Agreed Value.
www.grundy.com (PA)
136 AmericanCarCollector.com
Premier Financial Services. 877973-7700.
Since 1997, renowned
customer service and honest leasing
practices have made Premier
the nation’s leading lessor of luxury
and performance motorcars.
We are small enough to ensure
your business gets the attention it
deserves, and large enough to
finance any new, used, or vintage
car over $50,000. Contact Premier
at 877-973-7700 or info@pfsllc.
com. www.premierfinancialservices.com
(CT)
LeMay Family Collection
Foundation. LeMay Family
Collection Foundation at
Marymount Events Center near
Tacoma, WA, hosts an epic backdrop
for your next event. Home to
500 fabulous collector cars, worldclass
art exhibits, and assorted
ephemera, consider your next
event here. Weddings, swapmeets,
conventions, auctions. The
facility can likely exceed your expectations.
Visit during the 37th
annual open house along with
13,000 other enthusiasts. 253272-2336
www.lemaymarymount.org. (WA)
National Corvette Museum. 80053-VETTE.
The National Corvette
Museum in Bowling Green, KY,
was established as a 501(c)3 notfor-profit
foundation with a mission
of celebrating the invention of the
Corvette and preserving its past,
present and future. www.corvettemuseum.com.
(KY)
FOLLOW
ACC
Page 135
Parts—General
Custom Autosound
Manufacturing. 800-888-8637.
Since 1977 providing audio solutions
for classic cars, trucks and
street rods. Covering over 400
applications, our radios and speakers
fit the original locations without
modifications. Keep the classic
look of your vehicle while enjoying
state-of-the-art audio. Check out
all of our products at
www.customautosoundmfg.com.
(CA)
broadest line of high-quality parts
for the best prices. We have painstakingly
reproduced over 1,000
different parts for our 1955–1966
Ford Thunderbird, 1965–1973
Ford Mustang and 1954–1957
Ford Passenger Car product lines
and are never satisfied with less
than the best workmanship. Learn
more now at www.larrystbird.com
or call us at 800-854-0393.
including custom builds. Our specialty
is high-end, show-quality
body and paint work. We work with
many reputable shops around the
country that send us their projects
for bodywork and paint. We also
offer classic car collection management,
storage, consulting and
classic car valuations.
www.classicgaragellc.com (ID)
classic car means to you and we
will treat your restoration or repair
with the quality care and respect it
deserves, getting the job done
right the first time. We believe that
a restoration should last a lifetime
and beyond, so we strive to provide
our clients with quality restoration
services that will last for
generations.
www.hahnautorestoration.com
National Parts Depot. 800-8747595.
We stock huge inventories
of concours-correct restoration
parts for:
Evans Waterless Coolant is the
solution to running too hot. With a
boiling point of 375°F, our revolutionary
liquid formulation is a superior
alternative to water-based
coolants. Evans eliminates water
vapor, hotspots and boil-over,
resulting in a less pressurized,
more efficient cooling system and
preventing corrosion, electrolysis
and pump cavitation. Evans also
protects down to -40°F and lasts
the lifetime of the engine.
See how it works at
www.evanscoolant.com (CT)
Evapo-Rust® 888-329-9877.
Evapo-Rust® rust remover is safe
on skin and all materials except
rust! It’s also biodegradable and
earth-friendly. Water soluble and
pH-neutral, Evapo-Rust® is nontoxic,
non-corrosive, non-flammable,
and contains no acids, bases
or solvents. Evapo-Rust® is simply
the safest rust remover.
www.evapo-rust.com
info@evapo-rust.com (AR)
1965–73 and 1979–93 Mustang
1967–81 Camaro & Firebird
1964–72 GTO, Tempest & LeMans
1964–87 Chevelle, Malibu &
El Camino
1948–96 F-Series Ford Truck
1947–98 C/K 1/2-ton Chevy Truck
1966–96 Bronco
1955–57 Thunderbird
www.nationalpartsdepot.com
Corvette America. 800-458-3475.
The No. 1 manufacturer and supplier
of interiors, parts and wheels
for all generations of Corvettes.
Our Pennsylvania manufacturing
facility produces the finest quality
Corvette interiors and our distribution
center is stocked with thousands
of additional Corvetterelated
products. Corvette America
is a member of the RPUI family of
companies. Visit
www.CorvetteAmerica.com (PA)
Original Parts Group Inc. 800243-8355.
At Original Parts Group,
we are proud to be the largest USA
supplier of in-stock restoration parts
for your classic GM A, B, C, E and
G-body vehicle, including newly
released Cadillac CTS, ATS, STS,
Escalade, EXT and XLR. 100%
privately owned to serve you better,
since 1982. We are devoted to quality
parts and customer service. Visit
OPGI.com today or call today to
order your free parts catalog. (CA)
Restoration—General
Classic Garage Automobile
Restoration. 208-755-3334.
Classic Garage is a full service,
classic car shop offering full-restoration
and partial-restoration work,
Cosmopolitan Motors LLC. 206467-6531.
Experts in worldwide
acquisition, collection management,
disposition and appraisal.
For more than a quarter century,
Cosmopolitan Motors has lived by
its motto, “We covet the rare and
unusual, whether pedigreed or
proletarian.” Absurdly eclectic and
proud of it. Find your treasure
here, or pass it along to the next
generation. www.cosmopolitanmotors.com
(WA)
Hahn Auto Restoration. 724-4524329.
We take pride in offering
concours-level collector car restoration,
recommissioning, custom
builds and repair services. With
our experienced staff and cuttingedge
technology, we can restore
your car back to its original beauty
and help it perform better than
when it was first driven off the lot!
We understand how much your
Park Place LTD. 425-562-1000.
Founded in 1987 in Bellevue, WA,
our dealership is locally owned and
independently operated. Our restoration
department works full time to
restore vehicles of every year,
make and model to provide an
award-winning finish. We consign,
buy and sell all types of vehicles.
We also have an in-house service
center and high-end Auto Salon.
www.ParkPlaceLtd.com
Pollock Auto Restoration. 610323-7108.
Experienced with BrassEra,
Pre-War, Post-War American
and European Classic Cars since
1955. Pollock Auto Restoration
performs virtually all restoration
services in-house. Our metalworking
and woodworking equipment
allows our skilled staff to re-create
any type of coachwork, which we
refinish in our state-of-the-art paint
spray booth. We have a large upholstery
department stocking many
years worth of materials. All chassis
and engine repairs are performed
by trained and talented technicians
and craftspeople. info@pollockauto.
com www.pollockauto.com (PA)
RM Auto Restoration. 519-3524575.
RM Auto Restoration is North
America’s leading classic car restoration
facility. Whether it’s a complete
“body-off” restoration, a partial
restoration, or a cosmetic upgrade,
our dedicated team of restoration
perfectionists provides an unwavering
commitment to deliver flawless
work, and to the highest cosmetic
presentation, every time. www.
CAR COLLECTOR
Larry’s Thunderbird and
Mustang Parts. From our first
beginnings in 1969, Larry’s has
always strived to provide the
AMERICAN
rmautorestoration.com A
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Keith Martin’s
Page 136
Automobilia on eBay and Be
SURFING AROUND
Carl Bomstead
CARL’S THOUGHT: David Gilmour, guitarist, singer and songwriter for Pink Floyd, sold his guitar co
Christie’s auction on June 20 for $21.5m, with the proceeds going to ClientEarth. Jim Irsay, owner of
the Indianapolis Colts, bought the famed 1969 black Fender Stratocaster known as “The Black Strat”
for $4m and paid an additional $175,000 for the carrying case. It was the guitar that Gilmour used
when recording “Dark Side of the Moon” and “The Wall.” He used the guitar, a replacement for one
that was stolen, from 1970 until 1983. It set a new record for a guitar sold at auction.
Here are a few more sales that were also music to my ears:
RM SOTHEBY’S LOT
2074—CHEVROLET
DEALERSHIP DOUBLESIDED
PORCELAIN NEON
SIGN WITH CLOCK. SOLD
AT: $24,150. Date sold:
5/29/2019. This desirable
double-sided Chevrolet
sign was manufactured by
Walker and Co. and included
a Telechrome clock at the top on both sides. It was in acceptable condition
with a few minor chips and touch-up. Price paid was up there, but this is
the new normal for quality dealership signage.
MORFORD AUCTIONS LOT 95—
GOLDEN SHELL FIVE-GALLON MOTOROIL
CAN. SOLD AT: $2,478. Date sold:
6/22/2019. This large, colorful embossed
five-gallon can was in exceptional condition
considering its age and was complete with
the original cap. It dates to the ’20s, as the
Shell Company of California became simply
the Shell Company in about 1928. There
is also a yellow version, but it’s equally
scarce, so good luck finding the mate to this
wonderful example.
RM SOTHEBY’S LOT 402
CROSS-BOSS INTAKE W
AUTOLITE INLINE CAR
RETOR. SOLD AT: $4,6
Date sold: 5/29/2019. Th
aluminum Cross-Boss inta
developed for the Ford M
tang 302 for the 1970 SCC
Trans-Am Championship.
many as 35 were produce
for the Ford-backed team
and another 300 or so were
sold to privateer racers. The 4-barrel
Autolite carburetor was inline and was available at 875 cfm or 1,400 cfm.
Another sold on Bring a Trailer in January for $7,200, so this just may
have been a heck of a bargain.
138 AmericanCarCollector.com
EBAY #202653908775—2018
DODGE DEMON NYC PRESS KIT
#1050. Number of bids: 1. SOLD AT:
$1,000. Date sold: 4/17/2019. This
elaborate press kit was from the 2018
Dodge Demon unveiling at New York City.
They were numbered and included a lot of performance information. An
enterprising automotive journalist chose to unload his. Cool price if you
have the exciting Dodge Demon in the garage.
VANDERBRINK AUCTIONS LOT
127TB—FORD FLATHEAD V8
WITH ARDUN HEADS. SOLD AT:
$55,000. Date sold: 6/15/2019. The
Ford flathead had been rebuilt and
included an extensive list of parts, not
the least of which was a pair of earlyproduction
Ardun OHV conversion
heads. The cast-aluminum hemispherical
heads were developed by Zora Arkus-Duntov and his brother and were
designed to improve airflow. They were initially a bit flawed but have been
improved over the years. The early-production heads are extremely desirable,
as indicated by the price paid here.
MORFORD AUCTIONS LOT 64—DIAMOND
TIRES TIN FLANGE SIGN. SOLD AT: $6,490.
Date sold: 6/22/2019. This early double-sided
lithographed tin flange sign was an unusual
variation with their distinctive logo with the man
and the umbrella. It was in decent condition with
only minor soiling and the colors were bright
and bold. Sold for a bunch, but tire signs are hot
property.
RM SOTHEBY’S LOT 1372—C
FIBERGLASS CORVETTE GOCART.
SOLD AT: $575. Date
sold: 5/29/2019. This fiberglass
Corvette child’s car did not have
an engine and there was a crack
in the fiberglass on door. The crack could easily be repaired and a Briggs
and Stratton lawn mower engine installed. For not a whole lot of money,
your kid could have the wickedest whip in the neighborhood. A