A Broke Dude’s Guide to Saving Money for a Car (And Buying One)

Your current car decided to call it quits – not fun! Or it’s time for your first car – congrats! Either way, you are trying to figure out what car to buy and how much it’s going to cost you. Saving money for a car is one of the best ways to buy your car to have the ability to make a cash offer or to have a larger down payment. Keep reading to learn how to save for a car no matter your finances and tips on saving on your purchase. Guide to Saving Money for a Car Buying a …

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1955 ABARTH 207A Speedster - Gooding Amelia 2019 Favorites 16

1955 ABARTH 207A Boano Speedster – Gooding Amelia 2019 Favorites

Part of Carlo Abarth’s first-ever sports racer series of ten cars — and this is chassis 001.  Aka, the first one! Abarth made a great name for himself by making custom racecars from Fiat bits.  Fiat 500s were in amble supply at the time so Abarth was free to experiment with many layouts, including this mid-front-engine design.  The paltry 66-horsepower available meant that lightness, corner speed and aero were everything. This 207/A has alloy bodywork to make the most of the power available, and its design was very smart for 1955. Some of the coolest elements of the racer’s design …

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1984 Porsche 911 SC/RS – Factory Rothmans Rally Car – Gooding Amelia 2019

There are a few very tasty 911s in the Gooding Amelia Island 2019 lineup — but this one jumped off the page and right into my heart. Imagine jamming this 280HP, lifted and skid-plated hero across some loose surfaces!  Second to the Dakar 959, we can hardly think of a more iconic off-road 911.  This is the livery of a thousand fakes — but here in all its authentic glory.  This SC/RS was one of 20 produced for FIA homologation rules.  It has had a wild life of racing to win numerous races in 1984 and 1985 before living in …

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Subtlest RUF Ever? 1990 Porsche RUF BTR Carrera 4 Turbo – RM Amelia 2019 Preview

Who says RUF can’t make some refined and restrained posh models along with their wild bodykits and slantnoses of the same era. This 1990 model was a classy AF upgrade in its day.  So much so that the inhouse name for the 425HP stunner was The Ultimate. This beauty’s condition today more than two decades later is nearly as good — and surely a drive feel that is a lot more rare. 1990 Porsche RUF BTR Carrera 4 Turbo     RM | Sotheby’s – AMELIA ISLAND 2019   Full RUF BTR conversion with 425 hp; dubbed the “Ultimate” Built at …

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RM Paris 2018 – 2005 Maserati MC12

The MC12 is such a special hypercar that it rarely hangs out with mere supercars. This example is flawlessly original and expects to collect at least two million Euros when sold by RM Sotheby’s Paris auction in early 2018. The MC12 was not originally intended as a road car at all.  This is what let Maserati get away with such wild wings and bodywork atop a humble Enzo Ferrari basis. MC12 took a different, high-speed aero approach to the longtail design of a midengine exotic, with less drag than the Enzo.  A bit less downforce as well, in theory, and a …

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2018 Bugatti CHIRON Headlines RM Sotheby’s 2017 New York Icons [33 Photos]

Imagine having a Chiron. Not in 18 months.  Or even three months. Now.  This week! That is how the new owner of this never-register Bugatti Chiron will feel in NYC at Rm Sotheby’s 2017 Icons auction. No word on who this original orderer was.  The Chiron’s exact color shades are not shared, but it is black on black with red accents.  The red stripe wraps the C-shaped door intake and then sweeps around the nose. The vehicle comes with an extra rear bumper in crate that meets US road specs.  Fitted is the slightly slimmer world-export-spec rear bumper. Pricing is …

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2011 Morgan AeroMax LHD Tall-Boy Special – RM London 2017

Just 100 of these AeroMaxes were produced for sale!  Seems a small quantity compared to the outsized reputation this machine has for its Top Gear and UK car-mag popularity.  The AeroMax is sure to be collectible thanks to its well-known teardrop hardtop design, split rear window and somewhat cross-eyed appearance from certain angles. This edition to be sold by RM Sotheby’s London sale this week is a delicious metallic blue over lipstick red inside.  It has less than 2000 miles from new and was originally sold to a member of the British royal family. A coupe special features of this …

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1955 Ferrari 121LM Spider by Scaglietti – RM Sotheby’s Monterey Preview

Only in Monterey would crummy roadside motels be filled with Ferrari’s and Lambo’s! And even around the corner from Pebble Beach, these special cars (and people!) only come out once a year. RM Sotheby’s auction this week will be action-packed.  A favorite presale machine that deserves all the spotligght in the car world? This 1955 Ferrari 121LM Spider. It is the third of four ever made.  It is a shrouded-cockpit, single-seat racer in iconic French Blue.  A shrouded roll hoop behind the RHD steering setup is glamourous, as is the tiny perspex wind deflector.  Helmet or at least goggles definitely …

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1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS 20

1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Coupé by Figoni et Falaschi – RM Villa Erba Highlight

Here is a stunning example of peak car design. Timeless and enchanting lines from every angle.  Unbelievable finesse and shape to every panel — courtesy of the era’s best coachwork masters. But special even before that point.  This short-wheelbase, competition model has the lightweight sports-racing chassis and race engine.  It is also one of only two worldwide with fully enclosed front fenders. These were a difficult feat then and are similarly hard to achieve now.  Certainly they are impossible for any volume-produced machine.  The idea that they would help with aerodynamics is charming considering the top speeds of this car …

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1997 Porsche 911 Turbo S – RM Monterey 2017 Preview

Here is one near and dear to the heart.  The red dream crosses the block this August at the RM Sotheby’s Monterey, California auctions.  These take place the week of the nearby Pebble Beach concours. This tiny but ferocious 911 has no reserve and could fetch around $350k for its cleanliness, originality and, of course, 993 desirability. Would love to rumble up to the Ritz valet in this on Concours sunday! 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo S RM Sotheby’s 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo S Chassis no. WP0AC2997VS375758 Photo Credit: Karissa Hosek ©2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

1957 BMW 507 Roadster Series I - RM Sotheby's Villa Erba 2017 1

1957 BMW 507 Roadster Series I – RM Sotheby’s Villa Erba 2017

Sea green over red leather is a color combo perfect for the most stylish 1950s bon-vivants of the world.  This original 507 Series I is offered unrestored and with original patina throughout.  The factory wheels and bumpers are included with the sale – set for late May 2017 in Villa Erba, Italy. The black hardtop and hood-mounted mirrors are perfect details for this iconic BMW.  This color is not a factory shade, as it was added early in the car’s life by its orignal owner. Just four lucky individuals have called this car their own, however, and its originality is …

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1957 Fiat-Stanguellini 1200 SPIDER AMERICA 8

1957 Fiat-Stanguellini 1200 SPIDER AMERICA [24 Photos]

  I promise you have never tripped over something so lovely.  This TINY Fiat Stanguellini is even tinier than a doorstop.  Its ultra rounded nosecone/intake is a joyous production version of the rocket/jetage themes in high auto design of the era.  1957 but conceived in the hearts and minds of the world’s car-designers together about 1953.  Tailfins, streamlined aero and UFO-like body shaping. Without advanced CAD-CAM there was no way to know what truly worked in wind tunnels.  So if it looked right, it would fly right was the old adage. This 1200 Spider America flies right.  A bite-sized dream. Is …

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1962 Ferrari 268 SP by Fantuzzi – RM Monterey 2016 Highlight

One of the first-ever midengine Ferrari racers went across the block in Cali this August. Looks like it was a no-sale, curiously. A high bar was surely set: we’d estimating the reserve was around $25-million.  Perhaps 35. So it is still seeking a new home.  Home for its freaky beauty, snarky nose intakes and special-prototype LMP1 provenance. Sold or not, we’re elated to see this 1962 268SP in the sunlight in all its glory. RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2016 Lot 240 1962 Ferrari 268 SP by Fantuzzi Chassis no. 0798 Engine no. 0798 Gearbox no. 6 Estimate Available Upon Request Please note that Internet …

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RM Monaco 2016 - 1971 March 711 F1 Car 8

RM Monaco 2016 – 1971 March 711 F1 Car – Scored Second-Place in Monaco Gran Prix

What March lacks today in brand recognition, it more than made up for in its prime via engineering brilliance. You even get that sense looking at this F1 racer today.  Its aero is intense, but not a defining element of the car.  The glory in the March 711 would be mostly left to driver skill.  Massive rubber all around was the key to rapid corner exits for this car, much more than its primitive wings in the nose and tail.  The oval aero plane in front earned the nickname Spitfire as well as ‘tea tray’ out on the GP circuit. While …

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1969 MG MGC GTS Sebring

Generally speaking, the more acronyms after a car’s name the better. It usually means it is some rare, high-performance variant that may or may not have even been road-legal. And the best possible indication that speed is a sure thing?   If that long name ends with a famous racetrack! Think 599 GTB Fiorano, 365GTB/4 Daytona… This MGC GTS Sebring is the most intense MG we’ve ever laid eyes on!  The black and gold livery is lovely, as is the widebody, wide rubber and wide-open throttle in this featherweight slugger.   1969 MG MGC GTS Sebring RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 …

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato

The Roadster Zagato is perhaps even more unique and special than its SZ (Sprint Zagato) hardtop sibling!  The styling is truly otherworldly for a production model.  Performance was pretty brisk, too.  A 210HP V6 drove the back wheels via a five-speed transaxle, ensuring good traction and weight distribution. 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 May 2016 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato Without Reserve Chassis no. ZAR16200003002164 Serial no. 145 Engine no. AK5150100138 Photo Credit: Tim Scott ©2016 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s Type ES-30. 210 bhp, 2,959 cc DOHC V-6 engine with electronic fuel injection, five-speed …

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1965 Fiat 600 Multipla 1

RM Monaco 2016 – 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla – First 7-Seat Minivan?

No reserve for the auction of this delightful Fiat Multipla in cobalt blue over white. The origins of the minivan are widely debated, but this three-row machine is damn close to nailing the template.  Albeit with rear-engine, rear-drive layout.  That engine in the trunk would be a godsend for summer vacations — where a front-engine car’s tremendous heat would have the cabin near-boiling after a few hours on the autostrada. 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 May 2016 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla Without Reserve Chassis no. 100D.108 126736 Engine no. 100D.008 4541 Photo Credit: Tim Scott ©2016 Courtesy …

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally

  You are a rare, delicate flower.  Yes.  This is widely known. But you are nowhere near as rare — or well-preserved! — as this rally-winning Austin Healey 3000! =] RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally

RM Monaco 2016 – 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Boattail Speedster

It is hard to fathom sometimes that cars like this are sitting quietly in wealthy garages around the world.  Museum-quality icon or 1993 Mercury Sable?  Which shall we drive today, honey? RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Boattail Speedster

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 Chevron B36 LMP1 Spider

This was the magnificent time in top-drawer auto racing where the wedge came to life. Sideways on track, spitting flames from their open rear ends! It was intuitive, low-tech aero.  But race-proven and glorious to behold, then as now. The LMP1 and SPider descriptors above are ours – the car actually competed in primarily North American Can-Am races, we believe.  But the sentiment and bleeding-edge tech certainly makes it LeMans worthy — whatever the classes were dubbed in 1977. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 …

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 MV Agusta 750S America

This is beyond even the rush of speed, the sun in your face and a mechanical symphony down below.  This MV Augusta 750S America has crossed over — into true art.  It may be recalled as one of the purest expressions in all of 20th-century design and engineering.   RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 MV Agusta 750S America

RM Monaco 2016 - 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato 11

RM Monaco 2016 – 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato

There are no words deeper than this Beluga black Aston DB AR1.   RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato

1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B 1

RM Monaco 2016 – 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B

Fabulous Pug and beautiful livery — this may be a top earner for all-time Peugeots at auction.   RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car

No, we do not just put together these auction pieces when too distracted or tired to write up a full piece. And we resent the implication! Okay, there might be some truth to that.  But these cars are special enough to warrant a post– with or without color commentary.. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car

1951 Harley-Davidson WRTT 8

Mecum Vegas 2016 – 1951 Harley-Davidson WRTT Was Race-Fast Roadie

This WR-TT classic from 1951 is gorgeous and cool as fahk! This Harley is just one of thousands of bikes at the Mecum Las Vegas auction next week, from January 7th, so act fast…. 1951 Harley-Davidson WRTT Mecum 2016 Auctions Las Vegas Motorcycle, January 7-9, 2016 S75_1951 Harley-Davidson WRTT Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback in Candyapple Red  1

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback in Candyapple Red

Update:  Or maybe THIS is the car? This is the car. The one. Perhaps the pinnacle of muscle-car design and culture… a forever car. 1969 BOSS 429.  Candyapple Red.   http://www.nvsaac.com/Details/1969_ford_mustang_paint_colors.htm Get ready for a rapid-fire of awesome musclecars on their way to auction! The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But there are just too many special beauties to handle individually. Even so, we pulled out a dozen or so very unique icons …

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Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1969 Ford Mustang BOSS 429 Fastback in Wimbledon White

This is the car. The one. Perhaps the pinnacle of muscle-car design and culture… a forever car. BOSS 429.   Is it Wimbledon White or Polo White?  The Wimbledon shade was a bit creamier, and we think that is the color code of this rolling erotica. Update: yes, it is Wimbledon White.   Get ready for a rapid-fire of awesome musclecars on their way to auction! The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But …

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1971 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 6

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1971 Oldsmobile 442 W-30

Olds 442 W-30! They might not seem like it, but all were very desirable codes in their day…   Cruise over to Mecum.com for the full auction details, list of lots for sale, and info on how to bid online or in the flesh.   The event is a 9-day extravaganza starting January 15th, 2016. Each of the cars featured has their auction lot numbers in the header section, which may be helpful when tracking them down in advance or on their auction days. Mecum 2016 Auctions Kissimmee, January 15-24, 2016   F156_R235_1971 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 Photos by John Hollansworth Jr., …

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1968 Chevrolet Corvette L88 Coupe 5

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1968 Chevrolet Corvette L88 Coupe

The L88 Corvette is one of the rarest and meanest supercars ever produced by Detroit. It gives new meaning to the Big Block descriptor, and made all other Camaro’s or Mustang’s into distant specs in your Corvette’s rear-view mirrors.   Even so, we pulled out a dozen or so very unique icons to showcase in a series of posts today.  Forgive the lack of writeups, please, and cruise over to Mecum.com for the full auction details, list of lots for sale, and info on how to bid online or in the flesh.   The event is a 9-day extravaganza starting January …

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1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger RT Convertible 1

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger RT Convertible

Get ready for a rapid-fire of awesome musclecars on their way to auction! The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But there are just too many special beauties to handle individually. Even so, we pulled out a dozen or so very unique icons to showcase in a series of posts today.  Forgive the lack of writeups, please, and cruise over to Mecum.com for the full auction details, list of lots for sale, and info …

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1968 Dodge Hemi Dart LO23 Super Stock 1

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1968 Dodge Hemi Dart LO23 Super Stock

The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But there are just too many special beauties to handle individually. Even so, we pulled out a dozen or so very unique icons to showcase in a series of posts today.  Forgive the lack of writeups, please, and cruise over to Mecum.com for the full auction details, list of lots for sale, and info on how to bid online or in the flesh.   The event is a …

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Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Tanker 10

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Tanker

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Tanker Get ready for a rapid-fire of awesome musclecars on their way to auction! The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But there are just too many special beauties to handle individually. Even so, we pulled out a dozen or so very unique icons to showcase in a series of posts today.  Forgive the lack of writeups, please, and cruise over to Mecum.com for the full auction details, list of …

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1970 Ford Torino King Cobra 2

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1970 Ford Torino KING COBRA

1970 Ford Torino KING COBRA Best name on this Torino King Cobra, as well as some of the most advanced aero sleekness for any musclecar of the era.  But wow.  Stings like real snakebite venom when viewed from the front…!   Get ready for a rapid-fire of awesome musclecars on their way to auction! The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But there are just too many special beauties to handle individually. Even so, …

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1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 11

Mecum 2016 Musclecars – 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Get ready for a rapid-fire of awesome musclecars on their way to auction! The Mecum Kissimmee, Florida auction is billed as the largest in the world — and we believe them wholeheartedly after a visit to the event last year. Wish we could preview them all… But there are just too many special beauties to handle individually. Even so, we pulled out a dozen or so very unique icons to showcase in a series of posts today.  Forgive the lack of writeups, please, and cruise over to Mecum.com for the full auction details, list of lots …

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1962 Aston Martin DB4GT by Zagato May Fetch $20M at RM NY 2015 Auction

1962 Aston Martin DB4GT by Zagato RM Sotheby’s NEW YORK, NEW YORK | An exclusive exhibition and sale located on Sotheby’s 10th floor gallery 10 December 2015 1962 Aston Martin DB4GT by Zagato Chassis no. DB4GT/0186/R Engine no. 370/0186/GT Photo Credit: Patrick Ernzen ©2015 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s In the early 1960s, Aston Martin and Ferrari were in a heated battle for supremacy in the World Sports Car Championship. It seemed as if every season brought about a new, race-ready vehicle to ensure each company’s victory, and the teams were consistently fighting each other for first place. Competition was just …

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Janis Joplin’s Winky 1964 Porsche 356C Heading to Auction for First Time at RM New York 2015

Never-before sold at auction, Janis Joplin’s acid-trip Porsche 356C is headed to the RM Sotheby’s 2015 sale in NYC this December. Janis was a consummate scene-ster and party girl — living and defining the Haight/Ashbury scene in San Francisco throughout the 1960s while performing at tiny coffee-shop type venues. The tiny gigs often paid not in cash, but just free drinks. The bay area 1960s ideals of peace and love went national and eventually global by the end of the decade, by which time Janis was finally enjoying commercial success for her unhinged and anti-establishment sound. That success came fast …

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3.2s, 216MPH 1995 Bugatti EB110 SS in Famous Schumi Livery – RM London 2015 Preview

Thought we had a real scoop here: Michael Schumacher famously bought one of these hypercar heroes in so-called ‘p***y magnet yellow’ in 1994, but this exact car is not his, nor was it ever. The EB110 registry confirms that his chassis number ends in 39020, while this car was built 18 units later as 39038. The performance stats of the EB110 SuperSport are still competitive today, which is a testament to its performance benchmark 20 years ago. This SS is far more than a production “unit” in terms of most vehicle factories. This car sunk more bucks into R&D that …

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1971 Abarth Scorpione Prototipo 5

1971 ABARTH Scorpione Prototipo is Rear-Engine Rallycar for RM London 2015

    Abarth built a series of fascinating race concepts between the 1950s and the mid 1970s, usually somehow based on a Fiat 500 but often completely redesigned. This Scorpione Prototipo was a very contemporary take on a quasi-factory rally car. The glasshouse and overall proportions of the vehicle are far more advanced than any Cinquecento, with a complete repackaging into a two-seat GT car with its engine in the trunk. Theoretical competition in racing would come from cars like the Alpine A110 or the Lancia Fulvia. The Abarth 1300 badge in back next to the circular punch-drilled ventwork is …

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One-Off 2006 Lamborghini Concept S - RM NYC 2015 Auction Preview 7

One-Off 2006 Lamborghini Concept S – RM NYC 2015 Auction Preview

What a special surprise! The incredibly sexy 2006 Lamborghini Concept S will soon be auctioned off the the highest bidder! This gorgeous design vision was the original Gallardo Spyder preview car — with this stunning, dual-cowl speedster then diving for the archives. The one-off details on this car make it one for the ages. The Concept S is leading the RM Sotheby’s New York auction in November 2015. Ballpark estimates? Well, it is a concept from the show circuit. But also fully functional down below.  This is pure Gallardo V10. Helmets recommended. Road legal? In sum, we’d expect nothing less …

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RM Monterey 2015 – Pinnacle Portfolio: Up Close With 21 Exotic-Car Icons

Get ready to move some funds around! RM Sotheby’s just revealed a new entry into the 2015 Monterey classic auction: the Pinnacle Portfolio. 20 of the most desirable and collectible modern and classic supercars. Maserati MC12, McLaren F1 LM Road Car, Ferrari F40 LM and regular, 250GT’s, CCXR Koenigsegg…. the list really is drool-worthy. Each is likely to draw a unique type of buyer, despite them all coming from one very large home before. Check out the high-res preview photos of 21 Pinnacle cars below. RM Monterey 2015 – Pinnacle Portfolio 2015 – Monterey – The Pinnacle Portfolio 1994 Ferrari …

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RM Amelia Island 2015 - 1953 Chevrolet Corvette 21

RM Amelia Island 2015 – 1953 Chevrolet Corvette Is Rare, Flawless First-Year Example

  The power of the model-year in full effect with this 1953 Corvette, which is ballparked at $350,000 when it goes up for auction in March. This is triple the estimate of the identical 1954 model. But the 1954 is far less exclusive. The first year of Corvette production was actually fraught with peril and assembly issues. The never-before-used fiberglass bodywork proved extremely challenging to produce accurately, let alone assemble. A new setup wherein the complete bodywork was lowered onto the frame helped make 1954 a massive production year. They are both special, but obviously the collector value of the …

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Mecum Auctions – Kissimmee 2015 – Auction Block Mega Gallery

The Mecum Auctions event in Kissimmee, Florida this year was a massive success. An event so huge, you would need to block off ten days of vacation to take in all the amazing classic-car action. These 57 photos from the official Mecum snappers do a good job of capturing the mood of the event: one of excitement and shared passion for every machine and man that rumbled through. Photos Courtesy of Mecum Auctions. Mecum Auctions – Kissimmee 2015

1966 Aermacchi Harley-Davidson CRTT 250CC

Mecum 2015 Las Vegas – 1966 Aermacchi Harley-Davidson CRTT 250CC

When you think of Harley Davidson motorcycles, this streamlined racer is not what first comes to mind. That is because it was extensively upgraded by Aermacchi near Milan for racing on the GP circuits of Europe. This pristine example is a fine combination of American power and Italian beauty. 1966 Aermacchi Harley-Davidson CRTT 250CC     LARGEST MECUM MIDAMERICA MOTORCYCLE AUCTION IN 24-YEAR HISTORY, JAN. 8-10 30/12/14 Event to Host 750 Antique Motorcycles at Las Vegas’ South Point Casino and Exhibit Hall Walworth, Wis. – Dec. 29, 2014 – Mecum Auctions will present MidAmerica’s 24th annual Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction …

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indian bikes

Mecum 2015 Las Vegas – Previewing Ten 1914-1948 INDIAN Motorcycles

  The upcoming Mecum MidAmerica auction in Las Vegas is set to be *huge* for anyone who loves motorcycles. More than 750 two-wheelers will cross the block between January 8th and 10th, from 2014 models all the way back more than 100 years. Notable bikes to be sold include the huge number of very rare Indian Motorcycles, which are bound to generate extra interest this year since the brand’s relaunch by parent-company Polaris. Some really special bikes here. Sharing high-res previews here of seven Indian bikes that are for sale next week. Details on the auction location, admission and schedule …

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1937 Hudson Terraplane Series 70 Pickup

Mecum 2014 Austin – Mid-Century Trucks – 1937 Hudson Terraplane Series 70 Pickup

Part of a series. There are a half-dozen or more amazing pickup trucks headed across the block tomorrow and Saturday in Austin, Texas for the Mecum auction.      https://www.mecum.com/ Auction Schedule Seller’s Check-in: Wednesday, December 10 from 8 AM-6 PM Thursday, December 11 from 8 AM-6 PM Auction: Gates open daily at 8 AMVEHICLES: Friday at 10 AM Saturday at 10 AMROAD ART: Will begin 30 minutes priorTV BROADCAST SCHEDULE:Friday, December 12 NBCSN: 6:30 PM-12 AM ET/5:30-11 PM CT SDD Saturday, December 13 NBCSN: 3-7 PM ET/2-6 PM CT LIVE Notice: Big Brochure Deadline: Wednesday, October 29 at 5 …

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1941 Chris-Craft 27' Runaway Jane gif

RM Hershey Highlights – 1941 Chris-Craft 27-Foot Barrel Back “Runaway Jane”

A bit of a diversion here — the Hershey PA event from RM Auctions delivered a huge swath of old-world excellence. More pre-war cars, coaches and trucks than are typically seen at these events, to be sure. Among the collection’s top earners is this stunning 1941 Chris-Craft 27′ Model 115 Custom Runabout. Widely know as one of the most beautiful boat styles of all time, any Chris-Craft is a beautiful sight on the water. But this “Runaway Jane” is particularly beautiful, with the stunning handmade tail section forming almost a perfect half-circle. Dubbed the “Barrel Backs” for a resemblence to …

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Update1 – Gooding Pebble Beach 2014 – 1994 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.6 Speedster

Updated 8.23.14 This Speedster brought a very affordable $181,500 last week. Well bought! 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster Update The 911 Speedster is exceptionally rare and quite a milestone for Porsche. Just as this car was hitting showrooms, the 1994 Porsche Boxster concept drop-kicked the enthusiast world into a hysterical frenzy. Everyone was mad for the chopped-windshield look — but only 409 of the Porsche 964 Speedsters arrived for sale in the United States. Rare and certain to cause a double-take among even hardcore Porsche fans – the Speedster is an amazing vehicle to consider for collectors and sunny-day drivers. Its …

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Concept Flashback – 1969 Ferrari 512S Coupe Speciale by Pininfarina in Leopard Onesie at Marble Quarry

This car is RARE! Of course, many concept cars were one-off creations for a specific auto show or other event. And many more are not actual cars at all – they cannot roll on their own power whatsoever. But almost all of them are trotted out of the archives at some point after their initial show. If only to be sold at auction, they are almost always seen again at some point. This allows there to be more photos of the car than just one or two. Cars from the 1960s are almost nonexistent in photos from their original debut. …

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RM Auctions Monterey 2014 Preview - 1974 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale GIF

RM Auctions Monterey 2014 Preview – 1974 versus 1975 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale

Wow. Original barely does this one justice. It looks as-new and totally unaltered from its factory state. It might not be as butch or low-riding as some tweaked 1975 Stratos — but is probably the more valuable of the two among serious collectors. A similar, but less original, 1975 model (shown at bottom) brought $375,000 at last year’s RM Monterey sale. This 1974 car is being sold without reserve by RM Auctions August 15th (or 16th) in Monterey, California. 1974 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale http://www.rmauctions.com/lots/lot.cfm?lot_id=1068220 Photo Credit: Neil Gardner ©2014 Courtesy of RM Auctions   1975 Stratos Sale by RM …

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1972 Skyline GT-R RM Auctions GIF

RM Monterey 2014 Preview – 1972 Nissan Skyline H/T 2000 GT-R Hakosuka

All I could think as I came across this 1972 Skyline GT-R in the 2014 RM Auctions Monterey preview was…. “Awww yeahhh!!”   It seems, dear friends, that our day has finally come! Skyline GT-Rs in Monterey, rubbing shoulders with some of the most prestigious vehicles ever created. As the boomer generation starts to finally take a back seat to guys under 65 years old, the auction world changes with them. It is a huge relief to see less emphasis on Packard’s and other brands we have never come across in our lives – in favor of car with modern-day …

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RM Auctions Monterey 2014 Preview – 1953 Lancia Aurelia PF200C Spider by Pinin Farina

Wouldn’t you have love to meet the Farina clan? They are to Italian creativity what the Agnelli’s are to Italian heavy industry. Shrewd, forward-looking, mad as hatters, and always great with the chalk/charcoal — here is a firm founded in 1930 by Battista Farina and carried in the family through Sergio and later Andrea, until the latter’s untimely death in 2008. Many, many family fortunes are totally gone by the third generation. The second generation runs the company fairly well, under the continued tutelage of the master founder — aka, ‘grandpa.’ The second-gen is usually a prodigy of some kind …

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RM Auctions Motor City 2014 Preview – 1934 Chrysler Airflow Eight Sedan Is First Family Cruiser

The ‘first family cruiser’… is a nice way of re-writing my original headline: ‘first mini-van?’ So was it the first mini-van as we know them? No. But it does have the tall shape and profile of a useful family car, particularly versus the panel trucks, Model A tourers, or the rumble seat two-doors that were most plentiful in this time period and affordable price range. Few other non-luxury cars could fit a family inside an enclosed cabin in 1934. What was the need? Where would you all “go” together?  This was before most paved roads, let alone interstates. RM Auctions …

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RM Monterey 2014 Preview – 1961 Aston-Martin DB4 Superleggera – Lost by Castrol Ltd, Found By You

This sentence originally closed the article, but must be bumped to the front: This is a Superleggera car — with an alloy bodyshell! HIGHLY DESIRABLE…! Carrozzeria Touring handled these few cars, if we are not mistaken… This DB4 was originally delivered to Castrol in the United Kingdom, forty years before Castrol motor oils officially became part of British Petroleum in the year 2000. For trivia buffs, CC Wakefield and Company became Castrol in 1960, before being purchased by Burmah Oil in 1966. But this has nothing to do with this outstandingly-authentic DB4, which is in true “Barn-Find” condition. Somehow, the …

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1937 Bugatti Type 57C Roadster -- Leaves Me Cold GIF

Amelia Island Time Capsules: $903k 1937 Bugatti Type 57C Roadster — Leaves Me Cold — Find Out Why?

Plowing through my gigantic Amelia Island photo folders. =] Not only do I rarely meet a Bugatti I do not like — I think the Amelia Island 2014 event was the first time I have ever touched any Bugatti, whatsoever! Therefore, you can imagine my internal surprise at my blase feelings toward this magnificent 1939 57C — which were less than positive. I just didn’t like it. The color seemed off, the coachwork overwrought, and certainly not nearly as stunning, genuine and authentically-desirable as the racecars across the room. I blamed poor lighting on day one due to the car …

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Legendary Racecars — 1983 March Porsche 83G-4 — Still Seeking New Home after Gooding Amelia 2014

Alarming fact error on this one, guys. Our sincere apologies for any confusion, and a thankyou to Wayne at Pelican Parts for pointing out the issue. This is, in fact, a 1983 March Porsche 83G-4 — a BMW prototype racer retrofitted with a flat six from Porsche. Hearing the March Porsche 83G-4 fire up immediately brought droves of people up close and personal to fawn over its details, including your humble scribe. My video of the car firing up is missing somewhere in the archives, but the photos are intact! NOTABLE ELEMENTS: — In fact, Kreepy Krawly is a brand …

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RM Auctions MONACO 2014 Preview -- 1958 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by Franay 26

Meet the Real Bond Car: 1954 Bentley Continental R-Type Fastback — RM Auctions Monaco Preview

As much as we young folks like to think Aston-Martin is the epitome of a Bond car, that was not actually the case the first few times our man slid behind the wheel in Ian Fleming’s novels. His preferred coach in at least the first few books is the Bentley Continental R-Type, in black, if we’re not mistaken. Without quoting any of Flemings work (for lack of time, in honesty); the R-Type Fastback Sports Saloon certainly best matches my memories of his first car-of-choice. For, you see, Commander Bond was a bit of a lout. He was not a wild …

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Amelia Time Capsules — 1960 Rolls-Royce Phantom V Limo by Park Ward — 60 Delightful Photos — Sold for $99,000 By RM

This stately car was such a huge milestone for Rolls-Royce that the core template and style of this 1960 car barely changed for the next thirty years. In fact, Queen Elizabeth probably still wishes this were her daily cruiser. Such is its elegant simplicity, comfort and joyousness outside and in. The Phantom V Park Ward is still the utmost in formal living, so this realistic auction result is even more appreciable. Channel4 in the UK will air a relatively candid look inside Rolls-Royce this evening, but candid is a relative term in Goodwood. While the youthfulness of the staff and …

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Young Henry Ford Lookin’ Gangster! 2014 Mustang Widebody + 2015 Mustang Starring in Need For Speed Movie — 20 HQ Photos

I am not sure if you will agree, but, to me: the NFS trailer from summer 2013 made this movie seem like a pretty lackluster effort. Luckily, that no longer seems to be the case. Production values are especially-important to movie-goers. Many of these fans can spot crappy CGI effects from 10,000 miles away. Jump-cuts and sloppy slow-mo? You just lost all M13-34. I only got four seconds into summer’s teaser trailer before an (involuntary) Big Eye-roll. So, among this audience: it is critical to have the action feel, sound and look as authentic as possible. The Ford Mustang is this movie’s …

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18 Sublime Retro BMWs to Brighten Your Day -- Gooding & Co

19 Sublime Retro BMWs to Brighten Your Day — Gooding & Co. Amelia Island 2014 Preview

Something to warm even the coldest hearts, fingers and toes today. 19 retro BMWs from the Gooding and Co. Amelia Island events in early March. (Most are 2014 entries, but a handful appear to be from 2012 or 2013.) Presented here in chronological model-year order, from the 1957 503 Coupe through the M1 and the M6 of the 1980s. They are all simply delightful to behold. Favorites? The 1960 BMW 700 is cuter than cute can be in M racing colors. Or the white M1 is still a big hero of mine. Many more articles on the Amelia Island, Florida …

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RM Auctions Paris Feb 2014 - 1982 Porsche 956 Group C Sports-Prototype 13

Update2 — RM Auctions Paris Gala Brings Out the Global Jet Set… But Also High Reserves

RM is a real class act. This Blenheim, Ontario-based automotive specialist auction house took the best possible route to the European collector’s market via a glittering February 5th, 2014 Gala in Paris. For a relative new-comer in the seven-figure classic car world, RM is making all the right moves. Did they arrive in Paris with a variety of old Mustangs and Corvettes? Nope — not a single yank tank is in the top-thirty list from this event. The hand-crafted list of cars includes a number of unique and special pieces with extra relevance to France and European racing history. Names …

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RM Auctions – Paris 2014 Preview Series, Part3 – 1936 Delahaye Type 135S 17

RM Auctions – Paris 2014 Preview Series, Part3 – 1936 Delahaye Type 135S

Despite being the third entry in this series of articles, the 1936 Delahaye 135S is my sentimental favorite ahead of RM Auctions Paris Gala on February 5th. Online bidding is available – with full details near bottom of this article. French Racing Blue might be the subliminal theme of the auction, which also includes 50-plus legendary racecars and priceless classics. You can sense the excitement in the preview program for this Delahaye in particular. Another close favorite in this genre is the Gordini 53S – featured in a previous article here. The video of the Gordini at full throttle is …

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Iconic Classic Car: 1939 Delahaye 165 V-12 Cabriolet at Mullin Auto Museum

Only at the Mullin Automotive Museum could a car as brilliant, unique and influential as this Type 165 Cabriolet be summed up as “Car 30.” Amid the world’s finest collection of all-things pre-war and coach-built, the Oxnard, California Mullin Museum is a must-visit for all car fans. Those with a special passion for classics will find none other than 90-plus completely one-off models in the astounding collection. Housed in a glamorous stage-type museum building, the mood is right for period flashbacks with a recreated LeMans pit area real enough to be a fire hazard. Everything is magnificent about the museum, …

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RM Auctions – Paris 2014 Preview Series, Part2 – 1982 Porsche 956-004 Group C

What would happen if the long-body racers from the late 1960s could be made stronger, lighter and 3X as quick around corners? Turbocharging and advanced aerodynamics in this 956 Group C racer were paramount to winning championships – as were high-speed pace and near-unbreakable reliability. It added up to a world-beating racing program for much of the 1980s for Porsche. The dream is very much alive today – with 620-horsepower and fantasy track thrills – and will be auctioned on February 5, 2014 in Paris by RM Auctions. 1982 Porsche 956 Group C Sports-Prototype – To be auctioned on Wednesday, …

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RM Auctions - Paris 2014 Previews - 1969 Lola T70 Mk IIIb by Sbarro20

RM Auctions – Paris 2014 Preview Series, Part1 – 1969 Lola T70 Mk IIIb by Sbarro

Wow. RM Auctions had a record year in 2013, with a top-five list so classy there are barely any non-Duesenbergs. But things are even brighter so far in 2014. The Porsche below is one example. 1961 Porsche 718 RS 61 Spyder – Sold for $2,750,000 on Thursday, January 16, 2014   Chassis no. 718-066 Engine no. P90316 This is part one in a series of articles highlighting a handful of favorites ahead of the Place Vauban on February 5th from 5pm. A selection of the 50-plus cars being sold that night will be on display February 4th, after the International …

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1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Carrozzeria Scaglietti7

Record Prices Expected at This Week’s 2013 RM Auctions and Sotheby’s NY Gala

Record Prices Expected at This Week’s 2013 RM Auctions/Sotheby’s NY Gala The art world is in a frenzy. From Gurlitt to Rothko to Warhol, checks are being cut in denominations so large they might need an official escort. This certainly extends to cars. Beautiful dry weather brought out the big spenders all spring an summer. Even versus a three-pack of masters, the $50-million-plus recent Ferrari total is unbelievably huge. It is particularly interesting that such a sale was so public, in some regards. Typically, buyers in that type of market are not browsing the night of the auction. Closed-doors deals …

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1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Carrozzeria Scaglietti7

Record Prices Expected at This Week’s 2013 RM Auctions and Sotheby’s NY Gala

Record Prices Expected at This Week’s 2013 RM Auctions/Sotheby’s NY Gala The art world is in a frenzy. From Gurlitt to Rothko to Warhol, checks are being cut in denominations so large they might need an official escort. This certainly extends to cars. Beautiful dry weather brought out the big spenders all spring an summer. Even versus a three-pack of masters, the $50-million-plus recent Ferrari total is unbelievably huge. It is particularly interesting that such a sale was so public, in some regards. Typically, buyers in that type of market are not browsing the night of the auction. Closed-doors deals …

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1960s Classics Changing Hands At Record Prices - And Frequency5

1960s Classics Changing Hands At Record Prices – And Frequency

1960s Classics Changing Hands At Record Prices – And Frequency Throughout 2013 Springtime is auction season, and this year things were hotter than ever in the market for early 1960s exotica. Last weekend, Bonhams sold a one-off 1960 Bertone DB4 GT Jet for $4.9 million at a special event by the AM Works Service based at the old factory in Newport Pagnell. This weekend, a 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Coupe Aerodinamico is on the block the RM Auctions Lake Cuomo event. The rush of car buying in Pebble Beach in August also reached a fever pitch this year, but …

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