Mecum Auctions Spring Classic, State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, Indiana, May 13-18, 2014
Report and photos by Rick Carey, Auction Editor
[First an apology to readers for the lateness of this report. May and June were two months of nearly continuous travel, with barely enough time to take a shower and get clean clothes between trips.
The following report – comprising almost 190 cars out of the 1,600 Mecum Indy consignment – needed some extensive editing after the fact, particularly since I was able to view and write up only about half of the cars reported here. Some of the third party reports also were delayed, putting Mecum’s Spring Classic further behind.
As late turned to later I prioritized some subsequent auctions, like Mecum Seattle, ahead of finishing the Spring Classic, but finally was able to include all the cars eventually available.
Question for readers:
• Less comprehensive but more timely reports; or
• Include and edit for both style and completeness all the cars viewed, to the detriment of timing?
Comment below and we’ll be guided accordingly, particularly for the upcoming multiple Monterey auctions. ]
Mecum’s Spring Classic has evolved along with Mecum’s several years of expansion beyond its original Middle America core. It was expected to be the first auction to offer over 2,000 cars, but never quite got there, and now has been subsumed by the tsunami of consignments going to Kissimmee, Dallas and maybe even Harrisburg.
Nevertheless, Mecum’s Spring Classic is still in a class of its own, especially now that the Fairgrounds has completed the renovation of the Arena building. Moving the auction block to the Arena – with some deft organization of the lineup – allowed the adjacent West Pavilion to accommodate the day’s cars and the pre-block lineup. It became much easier of bidders to preview the day’s offering, and particularly the pre-block lineup when it rained (as it always seems to do at Indy in mid-May.)
[table id=102 /]
With the declining number of cars offered (and a lower sell-through rate) the total also declined, down 20% from 2013. Note, however that the Median sale continued to rise, indicating one of two things (maybe a blend of both): a) the caliber of cars in general is getting better; or b) the overall market is gradually increasing even among the middle-market cars that make up the bulk of the Spring Classic consignment.
The Mecum machine is creating an insatiable appetite for consignments, a voracious hunger that is in competition with every other auction company and shows no sign of abating. The Spring Classic’s performance has to be kept in that perspective, as well as recognizing that Mecum’s new auctions are siphoning off some of the cars that in prior years might have gone to Indy. A good example of that is Seattle, a first-time sale that only a few months ago was expected to have 450 cars, and ended up filling the CenturyLink convention center to overflowing with well over 600 cars.
Indy in May has its own attraction, particularly being able to sit outside on select evenings and mornings and listen to the scream of engines during test sessions for the 500.
The cars that follow are in order of sale day and lot number.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report
Tuesday Cars
Lot # G123 1980 Porsche 924 Turbo Coupe; S/N 93A0151226; Silver, Matte Black hood/Black; Modified restoration, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $6,500 – Fuchs wheels, Pirelli tires, sliding sunroof, covered headlights. – Carrera GT Replica, modified, but not running and pretty tired, a project car that the seller lost interest in. – A modified car that has to be brought onto the block on a tow strap is, essentially, doomed. If the seller shows so little interest why should buyers? Any money bid should have bought this neglected rat.
Lot # G139 1939 Ford Tudor; S/N 184659573; Dark Blue/Gray cloth; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $9,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $10,260 – Outside mirror, banjo spoke steering wheel, chrome wheel discs, heater, narrow whitewalls. – Sound paint, sound but discolored upholstery. Decent chrome and stainless, dull windshield trim. Hood edge chips and paint blister on left hood side. Filled lower body. Clean, restored underbody. New carb, fuel system, radiator, water pump, etc. Pitted cast trim. Dry, surface rusted engine and frame. A Ford with potential, probably as a street rod. – Not much to crow about with this Ford Tudor, but at the price it bought a car that can be used and enjoyed.
Lot # G148 1970 Buick LeSabre 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 452370D128871; Desert Gold, Black vinyl roof/Sandalwood vinyl; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $3,750 plus commission of 13.33%; Final Price $4,250 – 350/315hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, A/C, pushbutton radio, bench seat, wire wheel covers, narrow whitewalls. – Quick old clearcoat repaint with some fisheyes and poor masking. Color doesn’t match the doorjambs. Solid body. Sound but unexceptional other than the strong engine. – No more than ordinary, but a reasonable introduction into car collecting at a modest price.
Wednesday Cars
Lot # W030 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible; S/N 1512200560; Orange/Black vinyl; Black cloth top; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $9,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $10,260 – CD stereo, hubcaps. blackwall tires. – Very good paint, chrome and interior. Restored like new in 2009 and still pristine. – Sold on Wednesday at this price, but scored a home run when re-run Sunday and brought $14,040.
Lot # W071 1939 Plymouth 1/2 Ton Pickup; S/N 8625123; Black/Black leatherette; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $23,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $24,840 – White walls, hubcaps, chrome bumpers, turn signals, varnished wood bed floor. – Restored better than new with only a little subsequent use. Very good paint, chrome and interior. Better than most old pickups. – A neat old truck, done better than most and bought at a price that will let it be driven with enjoyment.
Lot # W073 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II Coupe; S/N C56A1843; White/White, Black leather; Older restoration, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $38,000 – 368/285hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, Town & Country radio, P/W, turbine wheel covers, wide whitewalls. – Decent paint, chrome and interior. Restored gears ago with a generously filled body. Oily chassis. Orderly, clean engine compartment. Looks good, but the body filler is not a good sign. – Restored a quarter century ago to the standards of the time and not very attractive by today’s standards except that a Mark II Continental is one of the most attractive and classy cars in American history. Considering the age (and quality) of the restoration this Mark II could have been let go even at this modest bid. It’s not a good car.
Lot # W074 1974 Volkswagen Sun Bug Convertible; S/N 1542376988; Gold/Brown vinyl; Black vinyl top; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $9,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $9,720 – AM-FM, silver wheels, blackwall radials. – Sound but orange peely repaint, good interior and chrome. Very clean and orderly engine. Underbody is nearly like new. An appealing Sun Bug, one year only limited edition. – Having seen Beetle convertibles bring Twenty Large, this Sun Bug is nothing but a good buy.
Lot # W112 1968 Buick GS 400 Convertible; S/N 446678Y178300; Maroon/Black leatherette; Black vinyl top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $29,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $31,860 – 400/360hp, 4-speed, Hurst shifter, P/S, P/B, A/C, power top, AM-FM, buckets and console, P/W, tilt steering column, chrome rim Magnum wheels, Firehawk tires. – Good older clearcoat paint, interior and top. Major chrome and stainless are good, too but some cast trim items are weak. Very good engine compartment and underbody. A sound and presentable 2005 restoration that shows little use and is holding up well. – Sold here in 2010 for $26,500, this GS 400 convertible has appeal not only because of its rarity but on account of its performance and equipment, an options list that leaves little or nothing to be desired. Its class and equipment eclipses most Chevys, Olds and big Pontiacs. The new owner should be complimented for recognizing an overlooked car and capitalizing on it at this modest price.
Lot # W114 1962 MG A 1600 Mk II Roadster; S/N GHNL2106520; Black/Red leather; Black leatherette top; Visually maintained, largely original, 4 condition; Hammered Sold at $16,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $17,820 – Silver painted wire wheels, no name radial tires, Black cloth tonneau cover, Spanish built 45DCOE Weber carb. – Quick, cheap recent repaint. Despicable engine compartment. Sound interior. Not an attractive car. – Sold here for a magnanimous price, the buyer then re-ran it on Sunday (U68) in hopes of striking gold. Bid to $21,000 on Sunday it didn’t sell, and it didn’t deserve to, either. This is not a ‘rat’, but it’s close and the Wednesday price is generous.
Lot # W119.1 1960 Nash Metropolitan Coupe; S/N E69162; Black/Black, White leatherette; Visually maintained, largely original, 4 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $7,000 – Black steel wheels, blackwall tires, hubcaps, radio, heater. – Impressively bad repaint, orange peel, dust inclusions. cheap old upholstery. Cracked steering wheel. Decent chrome. Orderly unrestored underbody. A car that deserves to be shunned. – It was shunned today at this price, then shunned on Friday as F45.1 with a much more appropriate bid of $5,500. Bid $1,000 and it should be enough to buy this toad.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Two
Lot # W122 1976 BMW 2002 2-Dr. Sedan; S/N 2743908; Red/Black vinyl, cloth; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $12,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $12,960 – 4-speed, A/C, rear defroster, Blaupunkt CD stereo, dual outside mirrors, alloy wheels, Michelin radial tires. – Freshly repainted assembled by someone who didn’t care. Dirty underhood. Cab has A/C controls but the compressor and plumbing have been removed. Sound interior. A fairly neglected BMW showing 33,742 ‘believed to be actual miles’ on the odometer but more on the car, especially under the hood. – Bid to $10,000 last weekend at Auburn Spring, the consignor hit the Mother Lode here in Indy where this 2002 was one of a bare few imports. It wouldn’t have been a good value at its Auburn Spring bid; at $12,000 it begs comprehension.
Lot # W123 1955 Pontiac Star Chief 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N P855H54894; Green, Ivory/Ivory, Green vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $40,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $43,200 – 287/180hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, P/W, pushbutton radio, rear speaker, remote spotlight, power seat, Autronic eye, wheel covers, whitewalls, continental kit, grille guard, fog lights, trouble light, lighted hood ornament. – A/C controls but no compressor or plumbing. Very good paint, chrome, interior, glass and engine compartment. Thoroughly restored and lavishly optioned. – Sold at Kissimmee in 2012 for $46,110 ($43,500 hammer) this is an impressive Star Chief, loaded with options (even if the A/C has disappeared.) ’55 is, however, not a major Pontiac year and this price appropriately balances the options, condition and intrinsic value of a ’55 Star Chief hardtop.
Lot # W124 1950 Hudson Commodore Six Convertible; S/N 50268552; Light Yellow/Dark Red leather; White vinyl top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $38,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $41,040 – 262/123hp, 3-speed, power top, P/W, pushbutton radio, turn signals, dual remote Unity spotlights, skirts, wide hubcaps, trim rings, whitewalls. – Mediocre old repaint, sound but flawed. Decent chrome and stainless. Surface creased upholstery. Badly wiper scratched right windshield pane. Underbody is mostly original and surface rusted. A sound old Hudson that can be used as is for a long time before it warrants restoration. – Sold here, the buyer attempted to get ahead of the curve by putting it back in the auction on Sunday as Lot U78. Oops. It stalled at $32,000. It’s tempting to take the bottom-feeders’ Sunday bid as a measure of value but that’s not real. This is a quality, if not exceptional, old car and it brought a realistic price on Wednesday.
Lot # W126 1960 Pontiac Catalina Convertible; S/N 160P44647; Engine # 234950 A1; Red Metallic/Red, Burgundy vinyl; White vinyl top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $27,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $29,160 – 389, single 2-barrel, automatic, P/S, P/B, power top, wheel covers, whitewalls, heater, pushbutton radio. – Well maintained largely original Catalina with a good clearcoat repaint, good replaced interior, tight fitting top and clean, orderly engine compartment. Windshield has light wiper scratches on the wraparound. Aluminum headlight bezels are dull. Underbody is original with light overspray. An honest, no frills Catalina. – This is a long way to realizing what the value of this Catalina is. It was offered at Auburn Fall in 2012 with a high bid of $27,000, then at Ft. Lauderdale in 2013 with a bid of $28,000, and at Auburn Fall last September with a bid of $27,500. The seller finally accepted that this is what it’s worth, but at what cost in entry fees, detailing and transportation. The “A1” block code indicates this was at one time a 389/348hp Tri-Power engine. It isn’t today but if the buyer gets wise it could be again and elevate its value by a factor of nearly two.
Lot # W217 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL Convertible; S/N WDBBA48D1HA072589; Black, Black hardtop/Black leather; Black top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $8,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $8,640 – Automatic, P/W, A/C, Pioneer CD stereo, chrome wheel well moldings, bolt-on Dayton chrome wire wheels, Tiger Paw blackwall radial tires, cloth dash top carpet, two tops. – A sound and presentable used car that looks its age. Decent old repaint and upholstery. – A good driver represented to have had a good, caring history that brought less than it’s worth. How much? Maybe a third, even though in absolute dollars that’s not much.
Lot # W220 1950 MG TD Roadster; S/N TD0850; Red/Tan leather; Beige cloth top; Older restoration, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $17,000 – RHD. Silver painted wire wheels, Michelin XZX blackwall tires, badge bar with driving or fog light mounts. – An older restoration showing age and use. Sound paint, chrome and interior. Paint loss and oily underhood. Faded speedo and tach dial faces. A sound and usable TD with the steering wheel on the wrong side. – A hard sell with the wrong side steering wheel, and not worth enough to consider sending it back to where people drive on the left. If there was money anywhere close to this bid the seller was blind not to take it.
Lot # W221 1948 Mercury 89M Convertible; S/N 899A218579; Tan/Brown leatherette; Beige cloth top; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $35,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $37,800 – 59A-B engine, 3-speed, radio, heater, Firestone remote spotlight, clock, hubcaps, trim rings, wide whitewalls, oil filter. – Restored 22 years ago and looks like it was 10 years. Top is faded, engine and chassis are dirty. Paint, chrome and stainless are good, as is the interior. A good driver that will reward a thorough detailing. – Calling the restoration ‘looking like it was done 10 years ago’ is damning with faint praise. A good post-war Mercury, this is a tired, but desirable, Mercury bought for a price that would be modest for a Ford and is a very good value for a Mercury.
Lot # W222 1972 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 W-30 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 3G87X2M150119; Blue/Blue leatherette; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $22,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $24,300 – 455/300hp, W-30, Ram Air hood and air filter, automatic, 3.73 Anti-Spin, P/B, P/S, blue Rally wheels with trim rings, Radial T/A tires, pushbutton radio, buckets and console. – Represented as original numbers-matching engine and transmission documented with broadcast sheet. Good clearcoat repaint, chrome and interior. Upholstery material doesn’t match the original trim panels. Engine compartment and underbody have been dressed up for the auction. Painter didn’t carefully wet sand along edges and trim. A spotty but desirably equipped driver quality older restoration. – As the Muscle Car market evolves some interesting disconnects, like this ’72 4-4-2, emerge. It’s big block muscle, downrated to meet EPA and insurance qualifications. It’s still Muscle, though, and as this result indicates, some pretty attractive cars can be found at reasonable, off-the-radar, prices. This ’72 4-4-2 is modestly priced even within those parameters. Join the fun (and still be able to light up the rears in a cloud of smoke) at an astute price.
Thursday Cars
Lot # T121.1 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback; S/N 7F02A157251; Amethyst Pearl, White stripes/Black vinyl; Customized restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $28,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $30,780 – 289/225hp, automatic, Edelbrock 4-barrel and intake manifold, MSD ignition, P/S, P/B, 18-inch chromed Coys wheels, Sun underdash gauges, AutoMeter 90 degree tach on steering column, Pioneer stereo. – The best thing about this Mustang is the paint and wheels. The rest is aged and tacky. – STAR
Lot # T129 1964 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N 40867S111309; Riverside Red, Red hardtop/Black; Black vinyl top; Cosmetic restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $44,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $47,520 – 327/250hp, 4-speed, two tops, knock-off wheels, aftermarket AM/FM radio, leather interior. – An older repaint that is clean but has a few touch-ups. Lightly scratched brightwork, hard top has noticeable scratching on the rear glass. Engine compartment and chassis show similar wear. A driver, but a sound one. – Sold at Kissimmee in 2013 for $42,400, this is a terrific car for someone looking to get into a C2 Corvette at a reasonable price. The base 327 engine doesn’t help it at all, but it was worth every penny paid.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Three
Lot # T136 1954 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup; S/N J0390C381; Ocean Green/Brown cloth, vinyl; Truck restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $33,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $35,640 – 235/hp, 3-speed, modern stereo, wood bed floor, stainless bed strips, bed floor mounted spare, hubcaps, whitewalls, painted bumpers and grille, dual taillights. – Very good paint and (incorrect) interior. Sharp dashboard and gauges. Frame is done like new. A very attractive truck done right without being overdone. – Sold here a year ago for $30,495. The Five Large is barely significant and the new owner should be satisfied with the truck and with the price, it’s that good even for Five Grand more.
Lot # T138 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Coupe; S/N 228870N125743; Engine # 0596450 YZ; Polar White, Blue stripes/Blue; Visually maintained, largely original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $43,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $46,440 – 400/345hp Ram Air III, automatic, A/C, power locks, tinted windows, console, AM/FM radio. Comes with window sticker and PHS documentation. – A good looking Trans Am with reportedly original mileage and matching numbers. Paint is solid with expected wear and dulling. Brightwork is clean with only minor scratches. Panel fit is very good. Engine is clean but shows some age. Undercarriage has been recently detailed to good standards. – Second gen Firebirds have fared better in the market over the past year or so, and this amount is in step with the recent trend.
Lot # T140 1979 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 1Z8749S402626; Dark Blue/Dark Blue cloth; Visually maintained, largely original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $11,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $12,420 – 350/225hp, automatic, A/C, T-tops, AM/FM radio with CB, tilt steering column, power windows, power locks, P/B. – Recent repaint showing a few minor imperfections. Panel fitment is questionable in places. Window seals are aged. Engine bay and undercarriage are orderly and clean. Interior is good with minor wear. Ready for driver duties. – C3s have yet to find their footing the way Trans Ams and Camaros of the same vintage have, but it’s not out of the question. This is a realistic price to pay for a sound but undistinguished Corvette.
Lot # T147 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible; S/N D7FH128591; Light Blue/Light Blue; White top; 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $30,000 – Hard top, whitewall tires, radio delete, vinyl interior, factory tachometer. – Car looks to have an older repaint. Cracked weather-stripping, scratched and pitted brightwork. Engine compartment is clean, engine shows fresh paint. A perfect car for Sunday cruises and small meets. – A great car that was ready to cruise. With Thunderbird prices being well established for years now, the seller was right not to let this one go for a discount.
Lot # T147.1 1965 Buick Skylark Sport Coupe; S/N 444375Z121741; Turquoise/Black; 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $11,000 – Power steering, power brakes, BFGoodrich radial T/A tires, Rallye wheels, aftermarket CD player and speakers, vinyl interior. – A quick cosmetic restoration. Paint was hastily done hastily as some areas are finished well while others still have noticeable orange peel. Engine compartment has been repainted with the engine still in the car, leaving the hard-to-reach places dirty and – An attractive car, really, even considering the additional work left undone. Even still, the high bid was more than appropriate given the presentation.
Lot # T151 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124379N662846; Engine # T0429JH; Black, White accent/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $58,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $62,640 – 396/375hp, 4-speed, Hurst shifter, chambered exhaust, P/B, P/S, tilt steering column, AM-FM, console with gauges, teakwood steering wheel, Rally wheels with trim rings and center caps, Polyglas tires, spoiler, – Represented as numbers-matching engine. Very good paint, chrome and interior. Engine compartment is like new, as is the chassis and underbody. Flat panels, even gaps but slightly bowed hood. Paint is scuffed and needs to be buffed out. A thorough, fresh restoration that needs little. – There is a lot to like about this Camaro, from the special performance engine to the chambered exhaust and a pristine restoration. There were an almost uncountable collection of options on ’69 Camaro, so it’s not hard to see ’69 Camaros as lavishly equipped as this, not that it makes this one any less desirable. It is a fine value at this price.
Lot # T156.1 1966 Ford Thunderbird Convertible; S/N 6Y85Q167288; Light Blue/Cream; Cream top; Unrestored original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $37,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $39,960 – 428/345hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, A/C, P/W, power locks, tilt steering column. – Original paint is sound with a few minor chips and some slight orange peel (like it came from the factory.) Panel fit is acceptable, engine and undercarriage show expected wear. Interior very crisp and clean with little in the way of age or use. A good looking survivor. – Reported sold by Barrett-Jackson at Palm Beach in 2012 for $45,100, then offered at Auburn Fall in 2013 where it was bid to $35,000 and Kissimmee earlier this year with a bid of $37,000. It is an rare unrestored Q-code, though you wouldn’t necessarily know that by looking at the interior. This was an interesting car that sold for a sound price. Leave it exactly the way it is and enjoy it
Lot # T183 1983 Ferrari 308 GTSi QV; S/N ZFFMA13A3D0045837; Red/Black; Unrestored original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $44,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $47,520 – Ferrari 5-spoke wheels, TRX tires, A/C, Concord cassette stereo, P/W, Borla exhaust. – 22,503 miles, seller owned for 27 years. Very good original paint and interior. Driven under 100 miles since its last service in May 2006. Engine is largely untouched, clean and orderly but not restored. Tires will soon need to be replaced. – A sound car for a realistic price that reflects its value with a modest premium for originality. Having covered only 100 miles in the past eight years it’s going to need some serious attention to get back on the road, reliably, which will make the all-in cost to the new owner substantially higher.
Lot # T184 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 1D37U2R598419; Engine # 531CTB 12R598419; Flame Orange, White/Black; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $25,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $27,000 – 402/240hp, automatic, dual exhaust, P/S, P/B, SS wheels, BFGoodrich T/A radial tires, hood pins, console, bucket seats, sport deluxe steering wheel, AM/FM stereo. Includes partial build sheet. – Represented as matching numbers, documented with a partial build sheet. A presentable but not exceptional car. Brightwork has quite a few dings and scratches. Paint has quite a few blemishes. Panel gaps are a little off everywhere. Underneath is showing signs of age. Interior looks good with some minor wear. This would be a good cruise-in driver, but that’s all. – Just a car with the stigma of the 1972 reduction in rated power and presented in entirely mediocre condition. A sound driver, but not a car to show off.
Lot # T190.1 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass 4-4-2 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 3G87M2M148379; Flame Orange, Black/Black; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $28,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $30,780 – 350/295hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, A/C, Ram Air hood, tilt steering wheel, gauge package with tachometer, Protect-O-Plate, build sheet. – Documented with Protect-o-Plate and build sheet. A good cosmetic restoration. Brightwork is bright and even but has some scratches and pitting. Fresh paint is excellently applied and has no flaws. Engine compartment could use a detail. Underneath looks good. Seats and grab items show some wear. – A no-sale at Mecum’s Kansas City auction last December at a price of $23,000, the seller did well to wait and may even have gotten a premium here in Indy. Some low-cost attention to the details will recoup the difference between the price and the value.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Four
Lot # T191 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N VC57K111249; Engine # T1105 FC; Larkspur Blue, White roof/Blue vinyl, Black cloth; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $32,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $34,560. No Reserve – 283/220hp, Powerglide, P/S, underdash aftermarket A/C, electric cooling fan, cassette stereo, spinner wheel covers, narrow whitewalls, skirts. – Decent paint, chrome, stainless and interior. Engine compartment has been done but with no semblance of being to factory appearance, Underbody is clean, dry and original. This looks like a sound original Bel Air that got paint, chrome and interior, then the owner decided to do the engine compartment some winter in the garage with a collection of rattle cans and brushes. – Ouch! That’s not a very flattering description, but this isn’t a very flattering car, at least where the standards of the owner are reflected. A decent driver, but nothing more and bought appropriately.
Lot # T194 1967 Pontiac GTO 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 242177B123624; Engine # 400938 YS; Montego Cream, Black vinyl roof/Black vinyl; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $30,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $32,940 – 400/335hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, MSD ignition module and distributor, console, dual gate shifter, pushbutton radio, Rally II wheels, redline tires. – PHS documented. Good paint, chrome, glass, vinyl roof and interior. Fair panel fits. Thoroughly restored and used a little but still a Goat to be owned proudly. – There is a lot to like about this GTO, particularly at this price.
Lot # T198 1967 Pontiac GTO 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 242177P302943; Engine # 648460 WS; White, Black vinyl roof/Red vinyl; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $51,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $55,080 – 400/360hp, 4-speed, Hurst shifter with GTO knob, P/S, P/B, hood tach, red plastic wheel wells, pushbutton radio, no console, Rallye wheels with trim rings and center caps, red line tires. – Represented as original engine, transmission and rear end, 77,163 miles from new. PHS, original build sheet and Protect-o-Plate documented. Multiple GTOAA National Gold winner showing just a little age but still extraordinary. – Why is this gorgeous GTO not worth more? The restoration has only a little age and scant, if any, use. It is attractively optioned, lacking only possibly A/C. This result would buy a second-class Chevelle but is appropriate for this GTO, a fabled series but one that collectors don’t warm up to like Chevelles or 4-4-2s. It makes it something of a value at this price.
Lot # T205 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 RS Coupe; S/N 124379L516132; Engine # 19L516132; Green, White/Black; Older restoration, 1- condition; Hammered Sold at $65,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $70,200 – 302/290hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, BFGoodrich radial T/A tires, console-mounted gauge pack, vinyl interior, Protect-O-Plate. – A fine example with a 2009 body-off restoration on a Z/28 represented as matching numbers done to an extremely high standard, with little use since. This shows as the car is practically immaculate inside and out, showing little wear or age. There are no material flaws to dissect. – Z/28 prices have jumped significantly over the past year so the sale price of this RS Z/28 was a bit of a surprise. It was in line with the presale estimate, however, so the seller, buyer, and auction company all understood the ground rules.
Lot # T235 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible; S/N 242677P273176; Engine # 576635 YS; Dark Blue/Parchment vinyl; White vinyl top; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $70,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $75,600 – 400/335hp, automatic, 3.36 gears, P/S, P/B, A/C, redline tires, Rallye II wheels, Hurst dual gate shifter, 8 track player. – Beautiful car that has had a recent nut-and-bolt restoration. High attention to detail from top to bottom, inside and out. Only noticeable faults are some lightly scratched chrome and stainless. A very difficult car to fault in any significant way – Sold for $71,500 at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach thirteen months ago and turned over here at essentially the same price, still as pretty as it was then and showing only 23 more miles on the odometer. An appropriate price for a very pretty GTO convertible.
Lot # T238 1955 Chrysler C-300 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 3N552082; White/Tan leather; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $72,000 – 331/300hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, batwing air filter, P/W, pushbutton radio, chrome wire wheels, wide whitewalls. – Very good paint, chrome, interior, dash and instrument. Orderly and clean under the hood. Old undercoat underneath. A pretty and intelligently done older cosmetic restoration. – Sold here three years ago for $84,800 ($80,000 hammer) and entirely understandable why the consignor liked the car better than the money offered here this year.
Lot # T239 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 RS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124379N514559; Fathom Green, White stripes/Green vinyl; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $49,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $52,920 – 302/290hp, cowl induction, P/S, P/B, 4-speed, console with gauges, pushbutton radio, Hurst shifter, Rally wheels with trim rings, Wide Tread GT tires. – Represented as matching numbers engine. Good repaint, otherwise original and in very good condition. Clean and orderly engine compartment with just enough paint loss and surface rust to support the originality claim. New glass. Really, exceptionally nice. – The repaint may give this Z/28 better eyeball appeal, but it detracts from any value that might be ascribed to originality and makes it just a car. A very good example of a ’69 Z/28 with the Rally Sport trim package, but not significantly different from so many others and that is reflected in its price.
Lot # T240 1966 Dodge Coronet 440 Hemi 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N WH23H61248511; Ruby Red/Red; 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $72,000 – Dog dish hubcaps, bench seat. – Older frame-off restoration completed in 1990. Paint looks good but has some prep flaws. Brightwork is aged. Panel gaps are off in a few places. Engine and undercarriage are nice and clean. Interior shows no wear. Very nice driver quality car. – A rare early Hemi, reportedly 1 of 96 with automatic. Surprising, though, that it wasn’t set free.
Lot # T242 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Gran Coupe 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N BP23N0B130404; Red/White; Visually maintained, largely original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $33,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $36,180 – 383/330hp, automatic, power steering, power brakes, rally suspension, power windows, console, bucket seats. Owned by Ronnie Sox, comes with broadcast sheet, warranty card, original bill of sale, original title, Govier report. – Represented as date-code correct engine. Paint is strong, brightwork shows age and some scratches. Panel gaps are erratic. Engine and undercarriage present very well. Interior looks good overall but has some wear to seats. – Ronnie Sox, the Sox of the Sox & Martin drag racing team, adds interesting history for the die-hard Mopar fan to this otherwise ordinary Barracuda Gran Coupe. It could have been sold for 2/3 of this price, except for Sox’s name on the original title.
Lot # T243 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194370S410973; Engine # T0526CZU 08410973; Blue/Tan; Original, modified for competition or performance, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $37,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $40,500 – Modified original 454/390 hp block, MSD ignition, long tube headers, P/S, P/B, 4-speed, Rally wheels with trim rings. Firehawk tires, tee tops, Pioneer cassette stereo, P/W. – Represented as numbers-matching block. Decent older repaint, good interior, otherwise used and original. Probably goes like thunder, but not calculated to excite a dedicated Muscle Car collector. – By most standards this is a lot of car, it’s just not an accurately restored car. Up and down, inside and out, it will be fun to drive and its price is every bit as good as the car.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Five
Lot # T244 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N JH23J0B308811; Panther Pink, Matte Black hood/Black vinyl; Older restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $72,000 – 340/290hp, Six Pack, automatic, P/B, fresh air hood, side outlet exhaust, front and back spoilers, 15-inch polished Boyd’s wheels, Radial T/A tires, gauges, console. – Very good paint, chrome, interior, glass, dash and gauges except for the missing windshield wiper knob. 1995 AACA National First Prize winner. Represented as matching numbers, broadcast sheet documented. Done right and not overdone. – Sold for $74,200 ($70,000 hammer) at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in 2012, the consignor’s reluctance to take a small loss is understandable, but possibly ill-considered. The color is a hot item, but not enough to make this Challenger T/A worth substantially more than the reported high bid, especially with the automatic.
Lot # T247 1971 Pontiac GTO Convertible; S/N 242671P116041; Gold/Brown; Brown top; Cosmetic restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $30,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $32,400 – 400/300hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, hood-mounted tachometer, honeycomb alloy wheels, BFGoodrich radial T/A tires, console shift, tilt steering column, aftermarket radio, documentation and Protect-O-Plate. – Paint is presentable but orange peeling in harder-to-finish areas. Brightwork is dull and scratched. Engine compartment cleaned and repainted in needy areas. Chassis is clean and in good shape. Interior is tidy. An attractive cosmetically restored car. – An ordinary but desirably equipped ’71 GTO convertible with a sound if less than comprehensive cosmetic restoration bought at an appropriate price.
Lot # T248 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 64V16849; Green/Green; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $48,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $51,840 – 289/289hp R-2 Avanti supercharged engine, automatic, P/S, P/B, sway bars, traction bars, factory tachometer, 160-mph speedometer, window sticker. – Restored in 2008. The VIN indicates this Hawk started with a 259/180hp engine. Paint is very good. Panel gaps are consistent. Brightwork shows some scratches and imperfections. Engine and underneath very clean and correct. Interior in extremely good condition. An excellent show car. – Reportedly 1 of 24 “non-package” R-2 Hawks from 1964, Studebaker’s last year even though the R-2 Avanti engine should have carried an R in the VIN’s third position. An unusual car with desirable engine, the condition is nothing to brag about even if, as the car card claimed, the restoration cost $85,000. The restoration isn’t so much flawed as mediocre and this is a generous price for what the Studebaker is.
Lot # T251 1949 Mercury 9CM 2-Dr. Sedan; S/N 9CM201480; Cream, Light Gold roof/Beige, Tan cloth; Cosmetic restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $29,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $31,320 – 255/110hp, 3-speed, overdrive, heater, pushbutton radio, turn signals, wheel covers, whitewalls, grille guard, skirts. – Decent fresh repaint albeit in odd colors. Sound original interior with some water staining on the left door panel. Good window gaskets but worn window guides. Delaminating left quarter window. Cleaned up and repainted engine compartment. Good chrome and stainless. A neat old car, going to Australia. – No more, nor less, than it appears to be, just an honest old car in strange livery that brought a superior price appropriate to conversion to a street rod.
Lot # T261 1968 Shelby Mustang GT350 Fastback; S/N 8T02J115318-0016; Candyapple Red/Black vinyl; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $64,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $69,120 – 302/250hp, 4-speed, 3.89 axle, P/S, P/B, pushbutton radio, 10-spoke alloy wheels, Eagle GT-II tires. – Ford press car. 60,972 miles from new. Cosmetically restored with a quick old repaint, fair chrome, good interior. Fair old gauges with dirty lenses. Underbody has not been done and has old undercoat and scraggly wiring. Hood is badly bowed. Engine compartment done to superficial standards and now shows age and use. A mediocre driver quality ’68 GT350. – Reportedly a Ford PR car which may add something to its value, as do the known miles, but better viewed as an economical way to SAAC events than as a paragon of Shelby-ness. Bought for a realistic price.
Lot # T275 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible; S/N 6L67S6Q215727; Cream/Light Brown leather; Light Brown cloth top; Unrestored original, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $28,000 – 500/190hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, A/C, P/W, power locks. – A clean, low-mileage survivor showing 10,203 miles. Original paint and brightwork would benefit from a professional detailing. Interior shows little wear, but some ageing. Mechanicals need immediate attention as the power steering has a major leak. Still, a good car. – The selling point for this car is that it only has 10,000 miles, but 1976 Eldo convertibles were instant collectibles, and most are similarly untouched. This one might even have more miles than most. It could have gone away well before the reported high bid.
Lot # T276 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible; S/N 8R03C119260; Acapulco Blue/White; White top; Visually maintained, largely original, 4+ condition; Hammered Sold at $16,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $17,820. No Reserve – 289/195hp 2-barrel, automatic, P/S, P/B, tilt steering column. – A driver. Paint shows plenty of flaws, with chips and scratches throughout. Panel gaps consistently off at all angles. Brightwork has many scratches and dings. Engine not neglected but needs detailing. Chassis shows a recent paint. Interior OK. Just a car. – This Mustang reportedly sold for $30,250 at Barrett-Jackson’s Palm Beach auction a month ago. The Mecum Indy bidders were more observant and marked it down by an appropriate 60%. This is the right money for it.
Lot # T281 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible; S/N VC57T154653; Engine # F621GC; White/Red, Gray vinyl; White vinyl top; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $51,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $55,080 – 283/220 Power Pack, Powerglide, P/S, P/B, whitewall tires, fender skirts, aftermarket AM/FM radio. – Paint is clean and smooth, brightwork has been partially replaced, top shows some wrinkling and discoloration. Engine compartment has been repainted in some areas and left alone in others. Engine shows patina from use. Chassis has some road grime. A sound but well used older restoration. – A great cruiser bought at a reasonable price. This car feels honest, which is important. It’s not over-done, and has been used but shows good care. The new owner may have gotten more than the price indicates.
Lot # T285 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 41447S254292; Engine # T110; Red/Black; 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $28,000 – Power steering, power brakes, whitewall tires, aftermarket AM/FM radio with cassette. – Decently restored. Paint is shiny, but more time could have been invested in the finish work as some orange peel and scuffing is present. Brightwork is pitted and lightly tarnished. Repainted engine compartment is very clean. Interior shows use, but is so – A little light. This is an SS with 327/4-speed combo, after all.
Lot # T342 1934 Packard 1101 Super Eight 4-Dr. Sedan; S/N 753317; Dark Green/Green cloth; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $72,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $78,300 – Dual enclosed sidemounts, body color wire wheels, luggage rack, smokers kits, rear window pulldown shade, radio, rear floor heater, Solar vee lens headlights. Car #756230. – One family owned from new starting with Maude Gamble Nipert, daughter of Procter’s partner. 45,505 miles from new. Cracked, crazing old repaint, sound but not original style material upholstery, trim and headliner. Hard, cracked window gaskets, weak chrome. Just an honest old car. – It’s a sedan, but it’s a sedan with history that reflects the vast majority of Packard’s mid-Thirties clients. It is better than a barn find, having been maintained but never restored. The price it brought reflects its history but is nothing if not generous.
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Friday Cars
Lot # F014 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible; S/N 6F08C290533; Red/White; White top; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $32,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $34,560 – 289/200hp, automatic, Rallye wheels, luggage rack, Pony interior. – Restored. Convertible top is fairly new and fits well. Paint looks amazing and has very few flaws. Panel gaps could use a little attention. Brightwork is dinged and scratched in places. Engine bay is very clean and well done, as is undercarriage. Interior still smells new with absolutely no wear. – Probably one of the easiest cars to resell. A red Mustang is probably what 4 out of 5 Americans imagine when the words “classic sports car” are uttered. The automatic arguably even helps accessibility in that regard. No surprise here with the price.
Lot # F018 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Hurst/Olds Coupe; S/N 3K47R9W565875; White, Gold/Gold; Visually maintained, largely original, 4+ condition; Hammered Sold at $7,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $8,100. No Reserve – 350/160hp, automatic, power brakes, power steering, air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM radio, Hurst dual gate shifter, cloth interior, gauge pack. – Paint is old and shows some chips and scratches, but still shines. Engine compartment has been preserved and is clean, underbody was undercoated with some visible overspray. Interior is filthy, dash is cracked and grimy, but seats are well maintained. Screams for a thorough detail job. – An unusual and interesting G-body Oldsmobile, and a Class of ’79 car that is worth seeking out. The drivetrain is boring, though, and hardly deserves to have the Hurst Performance reputation attached to it. The price is a reasonable result that balances the car’s originality with its nasty presentation.
Lot # F053 1982 Chevrolet Corvette Collector Edition Coupe; S/N 1G1AY0780C5108480; Silver-Beige/Silver-Beige leather; Unrestored original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $13,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $14,040 – 350/200hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, A/C, leather seats, digital AM/FM radio. – A fairly original C3 Corvette. The paint is chipped and cracked with new striping applied on top. Front spoiler is damaged and hanging loosely under the car. The engine compartment is grimy and deteriorating; chassis is grimy and covered in surface rust. – Sold exactly where it should have. Collector’s Edition Corvettes have been remarkably level for years, which will likely be true for a few years yet. The seller was fortunate to get this much for a Corvette so obviously used and superficially presented. The new owner shouldn’t expect any good surprises from it.
Lot # F076 1973 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N 1Z67T3S428983; Red/Black leather; White top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $13,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $14,580 – 350/250hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, P/W, leather upholstery. – A typical auction-prepped Corvette. Paint is scratched and crazing, brightwork is pitted. Top appears to be new but fits poorly. Engine bay is serviceable up top but aged in less visible areas. Undercarriage has a lot of wear and tear. Interior looks original and is worn accordingly. A driver. – Not a bad car, but there was nothing in the way of its presentation to make it stand out. The seller should be pleased indeed to get this much.
Lot # F082 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 136379B400021; Black/Black vinyl; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $51,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $55,080 – 396/350hp, 4-speed, represented as matching numbers, A/C, P/S, P/B, Rallye wheels, Firestone Wide Oval tires, pushbutton AM/FM radio, bucket seats, Protect-O-Plate. – Good rotisserie restoration performed at some point. Paint is clean with a few marks from use and was finished well in the prominent areas. Underhood is clean with expected engine paint deterioration from use. Chassis is well detailed. Interior shows little use, but the driver’s seat could have been upholstered better. Still attractive overall. – A mean looking older restored bowtie in black over black with Rallies and 396 with a 4-speed. The presentation resonated with a few bidders, driving the price to a level well above the current market for similar cars.
Lot # F088 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda AAR 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N BS23J0B294221; Black, Black/Black; Recent restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $68,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $73,440 – 340/290hp, Six Barrel, 4-speed, P/A, P/B, Rallye wheels, pistol grip shifter, rally gauges, elastomeric front bumper. – Rotisserie restored. Paintwork needed some more attention, with a lot of small scratches and fish eyes. Brightwork only fair. Engine bay looks good but isn’t fully detailed. Underneath is immaculate. Interior is brand new with no wear. Ready for local shows. – AAR ‘Cudas are rarely seen in black over black, and the combo really makes a striking statement. All the work had been done here, but it didn’t pop to the extent that might have been expected. Both factors seemed to even out and the result is appropriate after being offered unsuccessfully here a year ago with a reported high bid of $62,500. The consignor was smart to take the money.
Lot # F093.1 1964 Cadillac Deville Convertible; S/N 64F096089; Silver/Black leather; Black cloth top; Unrestored original, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $45,000 – 429/340hp, automatic, A/C, P/S, P/B, power locks, leather seats, power seats, power windows. Comes with brochures and dealer documents. – Remarkably well preserved car with only minor touch ups. The paint is very clean showing the expected wear for the 48,912 miles showing on the odometer. The brightwork is slightly tarnished and pitted. The underhood is very clean with only minor touch ups to the engine paint. The top is original and is still in remarkably good shape. The interior shows a little wear and needs more attention to detailing. A fantastic car that deserves to be detailed but otherwise kept as is. – Offered at Russo and Steele’s Arizona auction in 2004 with a reported bid of $40,000, then at Mecum Kissimmee earlier this year also bid to $40,000. This Deville was trying to play the “originality” card as far as it would go, but the high bid could get a perfectly restored example. Pair that with the fact that there is almost certainly a more original example out there (nearly 18,000 of these were built in 1964 after all), and it’s fair to say $45,000 could have been gleefully accepted.
Lot # F102 1969 Ford Mustang Coupe; S/N 9F01R177426; Silver Jade/Black; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $63,000 – 428/335hp Ram Air, automatic, A/C, competition suspension, dog dish hubcaps, bench seat, AM radio, deluxe Marti report. – Fully restored to an attractive level. Paint is beautiful with no flaws. Bodywork around the drip rails is a little rough. Great brightwork has only minimal scratching. Engine bay is restored to better than new, as is the chassis. Amazing interior has no wear. An all-around beautiful show car. – A pretty car, and an R-code, but at what price? When it was new it almost certainly trolled the streets of some suburban town looking for stoplight drags, disguised in its mundane trim and dog dish hubcaps. Today, though, the same amount could buy a similarly equipped Mach 1, which most people favor. Not that this sleeper isn’t worth it, but it is certainly an understated way to spend the money, which is to say a harder way to get the money back when it’s time to sell. A car of specialized, and therefore limited, appeal that didn’t find its market here in Indy, the most likely place on the planet for it to be. The consignor would have been better advised to take the money.
Lot # F104 1953 Cadillac Coupe Deville 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 536220733; Light Green, Dark Green/Green; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $25,000 – Power steering, fender skirts, full hubcaps, power windows, power seat, AM radio. – Recent repaint with a few flat spots. Window lamination is separating. Windshield is cracked and chipped. Brightwork has plenty of scratches and pitting. Panel gaps are misaligned. Engine compartment shows wear. Interior is excellent showing little wear. An attractive car but not an attractive example. – A great model and an honest example, but this is all the money. It will need some serious attention to the details in order to attract any more money than this.
Lot # F105.1 1969 Ford Torino Talladega Fastback; S/N 9A46Q207094; White, Black/Black vinyl; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $31,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $33,480 – 428/335hp Cobra Jet, automatic, P/B, P/S, Goodyear Eagle ST tires, factory gauge pack with added aftermarket temp and oil pressure gauges, AM radio. – A presentable cosmetic restoration with decent paint with some swirling. Pitted and scratched brightwork. Engine and underhood have been lightly cleaned. Some areas underhood are a bit grimy, prominent pieces show new paint. Interior lightly scuffed and marked. A good driver as is, but more attention to detail is needed. – A nice buy, really. The Talladega is underappreciated considering its story, production numbers, and performance. Build quality was never stellar, but at this price the inherent values weigh more heavily than the adequate driver presentation, even with the automatic.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Seven
Lot # F112 1976 MG Midget Mk IV Convertible; S/N GAN6UG172944G; Orange/Tan; Black top; Recent restoration, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $6,500 – Luggage rack, full-size spare. – A completely restored Midget. Paint looks good with a few blemishes and scratches. Brightwork needs a polish. Trunk fit is off. Rubber bumpers are faded. Engine looks good but could still use more detailing. Underbody and exhaust appear to be original. Interior is in very good condition. – It’s rare to see a restored rubber bumper Midget, mainly because the economics don’t add up. This car may deserve more, but that doesn’t mean it is worth more. It’s a tough spot to be in and the consignor didn’t find the solution at Indy.
Lot # F114.1 1972 Pontiac LeMans GT 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 2D37N2A189123; Carolina Blue, Black/Black; Modified restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $17,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $18,900 – 1970 455 engine, 4-speed, non-original but OEM P/B, P/S, ducktail spoiler, bench seat. – Ground-up restoration completed in March 2014. Paint is nice, but there are a few scratches and blemishes. Interior is good with some wear on the driver’s seat. Engine compartment looks great with only slight signs of run time. Underneath is like new. Overall a very cool, very nice looking and unusual car. PHS documented. – Even though the sale price was right on the money, this was a great buy in a lot of ways. The quality of work was immediately apparent, the color scheme was just right, and this car delivers GTO performance for LeMans money. It’s a good value for someone secure enough in their self-image to be able to deal with the lack of GTO identity.
Lot # F115 1970 American Motors Rebel Machine 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N A0C190Y262990; Seafoam Green, Black/Black; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $40,000 – 390/340hp, automatic, represented as matching numbers, 3.54 limited slip, aftermarket wheels, hood-mounted tachometer, original window sticker included. – Paint looks good with some swirls and chips. Panel fit is mostly good but not perfect in the door fits. Brightwork is has some pitting and scratches. Engine compartment is clean with some dress-up hoses and wires. New exhaust and undercoating underneath. Interior looks very good. – A truly cool and unusual car, especially in seafoam green. These are unusual muscle cars that swim upstream against popular recognition. It isn’t from the Big Three and therefore struggles to earn the same money. The amount offered was surprising, but not as surprising as the seller’s refusal to take it.
Lot # F118 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124377N240180; Black/Black; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $52,000 – 396/375hp, 4-speed, represented as numbers-matching drivetrain but offered without documentation, RS/SS, 3.55 Posi-traction, factory traction bars. – Paint is good but shows plenty of small swirl marks. Panel fit is very good. Brightwork is solid with only minor marks. Engine bay is clean but shows use. Underneath very well prepped. The interior is like new and shows no wear. An excellent show car. – The high bid was more in line for an SS rather than an RS/SS, but perhaps the bidders needed more evidence of the configuration’s correctness. It was sold for $53,000 at Mecum’s 2013 Kissimmee auction and it is hard to see it being worth more than the reported bid here.
Lot # F124 1971 Buick GS 455 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 434371H105998; Cortez Gold/Brown; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $62,000 – 455/310hp, automatic, P/S, rally ride control, console, rally gauges, Protect-O-Plate. – Concours-grade restoration. Paint is very good with only one or two small imperfections. Great brightwork has some very minor scuffs. Engine compartment and undercarriage are immaculate. Untouched interior looks like new. A very nice show condition GS in attractive colors. – It’s puzzling as to why this car wasn’t released at this price. It had some neat options, carried a great aura, and wore an unusual color, but over $60,000 is enough to buy a similar condition GSX.
Lot # F126 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Convertible; S/N 121040109500523; Red/Tan; Tan top; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $85,000 – Power brakes, hard top and soft top. – A recent cosmetic restoration to try to take advantage of the 190SL’s current popularity. Paint shows flaws in the prep work. Brightwork has plenty of scuffs, dings and scratches. Panel fit looks good. Engine could use cleaning and detail. Underneath has been undercoated. Interior has new carpet, everything else shows wear and age. A superficially presented auction car. – It can be easy for owners to see #1 cars go from $90K to $230K and draw the conclusion that their $40K car is now worth north of $100K, but that isn’t the case yet. The biggest movement has been for impeccably restored cars, while smaller (but still significant) changes have occurred below. This car needs more and better attention to be worth any more than the reported high bid. It re-ran on Saturday (Lot #S238) with essentially the same result: no-sale at $86,000. The owner should learn from this double dose of reality check.
Lot # F127 1957 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N E57S105785; Engine # T1001FC; White, Silver coves/Red leather; Black cloth top; Modified restoration, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $70,000 – 283 with dual quads, 4-speed, whitewall tires, AM pushbutton radio, leather interior. – A decent but aged and used older restoration. Paint is good but cracks are developing around the windshield and rocker panels. Brightwork is scratched and pitted, top is beginning to fray at edges. Engine is clean but with patina. Interior shiny and crisp, though the leather seats (not a ’57 option) are lumpy. A presentable but used ’57 Corvette with an engine block stamped FC which identifies it as a Power Pack big Chevy originally hooked up to a Powerglide. – This is a tired car offered at Mecum’s Dallas auction eight months ago with a high bid of $52,000, much more appropriate to the mis-matched engine number and many flaws and defects. It should have been away with the wind if the bidding topped the Dallas bid. The reported $70,000 bid is a pipe dream.
Lot # F130 1964 Pontiac LeMans GTO Convertible; S/N 824M23062; Grenadier Red/Red; White top; Older restoration, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $47,000 – 389/360hp, Tri-Power, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, tinted glass, rally gauges, tachometer, console, bucket seats, PHS documentation. – Frame-off restored. Paint is smooth with a good shine, but panel gaps are off and brightwork is slightly damaged and dull. Engine could use a good detail. Chassis is very clean. Interior presents well and shows little wear. Just a little work away from the big time. – The seller was well advised to bring this car home. A little more attention and a little less competition for bidders (this was one of 38 GTOs available in Indy) will make all the difference.
Lot # F137 1963 Ford Galaxie 500XL Sunliner; S/N 3J69Z100048; Red/White vinyl; Red cloth top; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $28,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $30,240 – 390/300hp, 4-speed, P/B, manual steering, wide whitewall tires, fender skirts, A/C, bucket seats, AM radio, tissue holder, power windows. – Old, dull paint with some scuffs and cracks. Dull but not pitted brightwork, dull light lenses. Engine compartment is clean but shows use. Chassis is clean but small spots of surface rust poke through. A usable driver with a choice drivetrain and A/C. – Bought right on the money but in many ways a more desirable car (with its 4-speed and A/C) than condition gives it credit for. The buyer got good value for money even if the condition leaves some doubt about how well it has been maintained.
Lot # F139 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194379S725002S; Engine # 19S725002; Burgundy/Black leather; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $70,000 – 427/425hp, aluminum head L89, 4-speed, represented as numbers matching engine and transmission, Posi-traction, transistorized ignition, side exhaust, side louver trim, headrest seats. Documented with NCRS paper and tank sticker. – Paint is good but has some scratches and flaws in prep work. Panel gaps are good other than an ill-fitting cowl panel. Brightwork is aged. Undercarriage and engine compartment are exceptionally clean. Interior looks new with no wear. Not too far away from being excellent, but needs some more effort in the details. – The consignor appropriately preferred to keep the car at this modest bid.
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Lot # F144 1971 Buick GS 455 Convertible; S/N 434671H196964; Lime Mist/White; White top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $55,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $59,400 – 455/310hp, 4-speed, represented as matching numbers, power brakes, air conditioning, power windows. – Well restored showing only a little age and use. Paint is beautiful and blemish free. Brightwork is very good with only superficial scratches. Engine is clean but could use some more detailing. Underneath is very clean with new exhaust. Spotless interior looks very fresh. With just a little work this would be a great show car. – This result is at the top end of Buick GS values, even for convertibles, and reflects the potential of this Buick more than its current presentation.
Lot # F145 1968 Plymouth GTX 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N RS23J8G191594; Blue, Black vinyl room/White vinyl; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $58,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $62,640 – 426/425hp Hemi, 4-speed, 3.54 axle, red line tires, Magnum wheels, AM radio, bucket seats, tachometer. – An older restoration. Smooth paint with only minor imperfections. Brightwork is clean and presentable. Engine compartment is clean and orderly. Underbody has been detailed and repainted with an older exhaust system. Little wear in the interior. Show-ready, yet able to be driven without fear. – With a 4-speed, this car could have pulled $150,000 or more in 2006 without surprising. Back then it was too much, today this is too little. A real buy in a sharp Hemi, but not less than the Hemi’s diminished stature deserves today.
Lot # F150.1 1971 Dodge Challenger Convertible Indy Pace Car; S/N JH27G1B310571; Orange/White; White top; Visually maintained, largely original, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $48,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $51,840 – 318/230hp, automatic, P/S, Rallye suspension, Interstate battery, power top, hood pins. Hendrick Collection. Window sticker and documentation. – Repainted once and shows very well. Brightwork has swirls and scratches, top fits well but is aged. The engine is clean but showing signs of use. Underneath has typical wear and tear. Interior is very nice with minimal wear. A good driver that wouldn’t take much to be show quality. – Rarely seen (1 of 50) Indy Pace Car Challengers from 1971. These cars weren’t screamers, but they certainly make a statement. Price feels fair, though probably only worth it to a like-minded collector. It’s dribble through a number of auctions in recent years, bid to $43,000 at Mecum Indy in 2010 and 2011, then sold for $41,000 at Auctions America Auburn Fall in 2012 for $41,000. The consignor should be singing hosannas getting this price for a 318/230hp bumbler.
Lot # F151 1954 Jaguar XK 120 Roadster; S/N S675116; Carmine Red/Black leather; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $75,000 – XK 140MC engine, chrome wire wheels, blackwall tires. – Block number 3650-8S. Restored to nearly like new, then driven carefully. Good paint, chrome and interior. Bottom of the engine compartment is a little oily and grimy. Exhaust manifolds freshly painted over the attaching nuts and cracked old porcelain. Looks good and eminently drivable. – Offered at Auctions America’s Spring Auburn auction a week ago with a high bid of $74,000. A decent but not remarkable XK 120, it could have been sold at the price offered here, or in Auburn, without regret.
Lot # F159.1 1965 Ford Mustang GT Fastback; S/N 5F09K396730; Black, Red/Red; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $34,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $36,720 – K-code 289/271 hp V-8, 4-speed, red line tires, Hurst T-handle shifter, AM radio. – A presentable driver. Old paint has plenty of chips, scuffs, and swirls. Rear window is scratched and delaminating, while all other glass is in terrific shape. Engine and chassis are clean and tidy with few notable issues. Interior is fairly clean, showing good care and little wear. – Keep as a driver or give it a quickie cosmetic resto? At this low-end price, the car could go either way and work out in the end. A great spot to be in a for a decisive buyer. Or seller. This Mustang sold at Indy on Thursday for $25,920. The buyer turned it into this Friday lot number and hit a home run. Whatever it is, though, it isn’t ‘low end.’
Lot # F160 1961 Chevrolet Corvette FI Convertible; S/N 10867S101965; Sateen Silver, White coves/Black vinyl; Black top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $70,000 – 283/315hp, fuel injection, 4-speed, radio delete, heater, windshield washer, spinner wheel covers, whitewalls. – No numbers on block and not represented as numbers-matching. Flawed paint over old paint and chips under windshield frame. Trim rechromed over unfilled pits. Orderly but dirty under the hood. Sound but not correct upholstery. A sound but barely presentable driver. – A ’61 Corvette with a FI engine is not, in the final analysis a Fuel Injected Corvette, just a Corvette with a FI engine. Mediocre condition and lack of documentation makes this a Corvette that could have sold for $20,000 less than the reported high bid.
Lot # F161 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124379N527476; Engine # V1018DZ; Garnet Red, White stripes/White vinyl; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $89,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $96,120 – 302/290hp, 4-speed, cowl induction, P/B, no P/S, Rally wheels with trim rings, center caps, F70-15 Polyglas tires, pushbutton radio, heater. – Represented as a fully numbers-matching Z/28. Restored like new in 2002 and amazingly well preserved. Looks like it was done yesterday, with great paint, interior and chrome. Clean, sharp engine compartment. The restoration date is probably a typo and should be 2012. – As good as anyone could ask a Z/28 to be, and in its original Garnet Red, too. This is a terrific car at an appropriate price, a Z/28 that has legs in enjoyment, pride of ownership and value.
Lot # F165.1 1971 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Coupe; S/N 124871L515410; Nevada Silver, Black/Black; Recent restoration, 1- condition; Hammered Sold at $49,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $52,920 – 350/330p, 4-speed, represented as a ‘period correct motor”, P/B, P/S, M22 close-ratio transmission, whitewall tires, Rallye wheels, pushbutton AM radio, clock, tachometer, original broadcast sheets included. – A recent restoration that is very difficult to fault. Strict attention to detail. Top to bottom, inside and out, this car is as spotless as if it just left the showroom. Any cosmetic flaws are negligible. Show quality. – This era Z/28 has shown signs of life over the past six months, so prospects are good here if the new owner keeps it for a few years. Sale price was about right if perhaps a little generous in respect of its earlier transactions, $17,600 at B-J Las Vegas in 2011 and $44,000 at B-J Scottsdale in 2012. Drive it, don’t expect to make money on it.
Lot # F166.1 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible; S/N D7FH294740; Flame Red, Flame Red hardtop/White; White vinyl top; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $56,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $60,480 – 312/245hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, hard top, wide whitewall tires, wire wheels, power windows, telescopic wheel. – Older frame off restoration done on this Thunderbird. Fresh new paint job looks flawless. Panel gaps are a little off, brightwork looks very good with only a couple minor scratches. Underneath and engine are very clean and showing minimal wear. Interior looks excellent. Very nice show condition car. – Generously priced for what it is, an ordinary T-Bird that’s been the beneficiary of a quality restoration.
Lot # F167 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194370S402744; Engine # 70S402744; Laguna Grey/Blue vinyl; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $65,000 – 350/370hp, 4-speed, represented as numbers matching, J56 heavy-duty power brakes, F41 heavy duty suspension, manual steering, whitewall tires, pushbutton AM/FM radio, original documentation and Protect-O-Plate, 2011 NCRS Regional Top Flight. – Restored in 2010. Only minor blemishes in the paint that are consistent with road use. Engine compartment is highly detailed, underbody is clean with some sections of the exhaust replaced. Like-new interior. A head turner at any show or event. – This LT1 was documented to the point that it came with a letter from its original owner. It was also very well optioned and was presented as the only non-ZR1 1970 Corvette to have HD transmission and brakes. Does that qualify it for a premium price? Not likely and it could have been sold here for the reported high bid, or anything close to it.
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Lot # F169 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Coupe; S/N 124379N580466; Engine # 19N580466 V0113DZ; LeMans Blue, White stripes/Black, White Houndstooth; Modified restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $48,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $51,840 – 302/290hp, 4-speed, represented as numbers-matching engine, P/S, P/B, Vintage A/C, Firestone Wide Oval tires, Endura bumper, center console, console gauges, cloth/vinyl houndstooth interior, aftermarket CD player. – Paint is very well finished. Wheels and brightwork betray no signs of wear. Pristine engine compartment. Immaculate chassis. Interior looks fresh, with only a wavy bolster on the driver’s seat to whine about. Very attractive overall. – Not the best Z/28 at Indy, but one of the better buys.
Lot # F172.1 1964 Pontiac LeMans GTO Convertible; S/N 824M22499; Black/Red; Black top; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $46,000 – 389/360hp, Tri-Power, automatic, power top, Rallye wheels, redline tires, tachometer, AM radio, PHS documentation. – Recent restoration. Paint is good with some swirls and blemishes. Panel fit is pretty good. Brightwork is mostly strong with a few scratches around the windows. Engine and undercarriage are very clean and well done with a new exhaust. Interior absolutely – Reported bid to $60,000 at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in January, the high bid here gave little credence to the GTO’s presentation. The PHS documentation may not have supported the present configuration, but without further evidence the result reported means nothing.
Lot # F174 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible; S/N 242677P160376; White/Black; Black top; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $80,000 – 400/335hp, automatic, represented as the original engine, Rallye wheels, power antenna, remote mirror, Hurst dual gate shifter, tilt steering column, rally gauges, power trunk release, power windows. – A luxury Goat, freshly and expertly restored. Paint looks amazing with just a couple of very minor blemishes. Convertible top looks new and fits well. Brightwork looks good with only minor fitment issues. Panel gaps all look good. Engine and undercarriage are nearly like new. Interior shows no signs of use and is well installed. – The reported high bid in all the money for this GTO, even with its extensive equipment list. It takes more than the base 400/335hp engine and a slush box to reach values greater than this, even in a convertible.
Lot # F175 1947 Chrysler New Yorker Town & Country 4-Dr. Sedan; S/N C45588; Burgundy/Burgundy; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $36,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $38,880. No Reserve – 251/114hp, Fluid Drive, whitewall tires, wood paneling, AM radio, leather interior. – Paint has a deep tone and good luster offset by bright woodwork. Some of the chrome is peeling and bubbling and the hood doesn’t align very well. Engine compartment is orderly and engine is freshly painted. Chassis is freshly done too but with less prep work. Interior is very well done with little wear. Cosmetically restored and well-presented. – A lot of time was spent on the woodwork and varnish, less on the rest of the car, an unsatisfying auction car presentation. The Indy bidders recognized it for what it was, as they should have and bought it cheap. This is not a good car.
Lot # F179 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Special Edition Y84 Coupe; S/N 2W87Z9N128070; Black, Gold/Gold; Cosmetic restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $50,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $54,000 – 400/220hp, 4-speed, WS6 suspension, Y84 Special Edition, represented as matching numbers, power steering, power 4-wheel disc brakes, snowflake wheels, Uniroyal tires, pushbutton AM/FM radio, T-tops. – Recent cosmetic restoration. Said to have all original metal and one repaint. Paint is very smooth with few imperfections. The only panel fit issue is a misaligned rear deck lid spoiler, which is easily fixed. Hood decal is fresh and well applied. Interior is very clean and looks like new. A terrific car. – A landmark price. Bandit T/As have long been on the watch list, and this sale rings the bell even louder.
Lot # F183 1962 Chevrolet Impala SS Convertible; S/N 21867S248585; Roman Red/Red; White top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $75,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $81,000 – 409/409 QB block, dual quads, 4-speed, described as correct but not original engine, power steering, spinner wheel covers, whitewall tires, knee-knocker tachometer, pushbutton AM radio, bucket seats. – Rotisserie restored. Paint shows minor blemishes from use as does the brightwork. Engine has a small oil leak dripping from the rocker cover detracting from the otherwise spotless engine compartment. Underbody looks like new. Interior and trunk are showroom quality. Some quick maintenance is all this car needs to be show quality. – Sold here a year ago for $59,920, then no-saled at Mecum in KC last December at $65,000, it found a receptive audience here that appropriately balanced its replacement engine (with no representation it was built as a 409/409) and attractive presentation to yield a premium price. Still, driven to any cruise night it will be fully appreciated by all and sundry and can’t be diminished for lack of paper (except when it’s re-sold.) Enjoy the ride.
Lot # F187 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 45837L110473; Engine # 141340; Meadow Green/Cream; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $34,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $36,720 – 327/350hp, rebuilt with 365hp cam, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, front disc brake conversion, tilt steering column, pushbutton AM radio, tachometer. – Well restored. Paint is presentable with only minor signs of use. Brightwork is clean with trivial flaws, though some pot metal pieces are noticeably pitted. Engine compartment and underbody have been cleaned and repainted. Only minor wear visible on seats. An interesting car that should continue to be enjoyed and shown. – The L76 option is rarely seen on a Chevelle, but is a really great engine – powerful, but not too finicky to regularly drive. Not a good car, but not bad, either, its cosmetic flaws are mostly superficial and the engine mods are appreciated. It’s a sound buy at this reasonable price
Lot # F189.1 1949 Triumph 2000 Convertible; S/N TRA1991; Black/Grey-Green leather; Black top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $33,000 – RHD. Hubcaps, blackwall bias ply tires, fender mirrors, rumble seat with glass panel cover, fog and driving light. – Sound but aged mostly original car with a sound old repaint and interior. Weak chrome, cracked dashboard varnish, faded instrument faces. Cracked, oxidized steering wheel. Dirty underhood. Not original enough to be a preservation car, but usable as-is. – Offered at Auburn Spring last weekend with a reported high bid of $35,000, then tried again here on Sunday with an even more disappointing $25,000 high bid. An interesting and sound car, but not very good. Worth no more than the high bid here or at Auburn last weekend, but more than it attracted on Sunday. Triumph 2000s seem to be coming out of the woodwork recently, but no one seems to care.
Lot # F190 1971 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194371S111032; Yellow/Black; Visually maintained, largely original, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $33,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $35,640 – 350/330hp, 4-speed, represented as numbers matching, 4.11 axle, P/B, P/S, T-tops, AM/FM radio, documented with original title and tank sticker. Lingenfelter Collection. – A sharp looking car. Paint is excellent with only minor cosmetic flaws. Brightwork is sound with just a bit of swirling around the windshield. Panel gaps are off a tad. Underbody is orderly. Engine bay has typical wear. Interior looks new and showing very little wear. A charming but not exceptional Corvette. – An ordinary, but somewhat reassuring, ’71 Corvette sold at B-J in Scottsdale earlier this year for $37,400. The price it brought here reinforces its value, if not its desirability.
Lot # F198 1964 Ford Fairlane 500 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 4R47K107282; Black, Red/Red; Unrestored original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $40,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $43,200 – K-code 289/271hp, 4-speed, represented as matching numbers, bucket seats, Rotunda tachometer, AM radio, glovebox door autographed by Carroll Shelby. Fairlane Club of America show winner. – All original Hi-Po Fairlane. Paint and brightwork show aging and scratches. Sheetmetal is straight and gapped well. Engine appropriately worn for its age and would be better if detailed. Very clean underneath. Interior has appropriate wear. Passenger footwell carpet coming loose. – Bought for a third or more less than a comparably original K-code 4-speed Mustang, an appropriate result in collectors’ hierarchy but leaving a lot on the table for the Fairlane intrinsically. The buyer has found an unusual and highly original car for a price that doesn’t reflect its rarity or its originality. A good value.
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Lot # F202.1 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Fastback; S/N 9T02Q205668; Wimbledon White, Red/Red; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $43,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $46,440. No Reserve – 428/335hp, 4-speed, 9-inch rear end with 3.50 gears, power steering, power brakes, spoiler, rear window louvers. – Paint looks good with a few flaws. Brightwork shows some pitting and scratches. Panel gaps are off just a bit. Engine freshly restored and very clean. Underneath is showing some use. Interior is decent, showing wear and age. This would be a nice driver. – An auction regular, sold here a year ago for $49,220, then peddled at Leake Tulsa a month later with a bid of $51,000, Mecum Monterey last August with a $54,000 bid, Dallas in September bid to $47,000 and Houston in April bid to $35,000. The consignor is probably glad to be rid of it.
Lot # F209 1966 Ford Mustang GT Fastback; S/N 6F09K110178; Raven Black/Red vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $60,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $64,800 – 289/271hp, 4-speed, fog lights, Pony interior, console, styled wheels with chrome rims, red line tires, Rally Pac gauges, woodgrain steering wheel, Sport Deck rear seat. – Very good paint, chrome and interior. Freshly restored to showroom condition. A choice K-code Mustang 4-speed GT. – 35hp less than a Shelby GT 350, but more than exciting enough to be a proud driver on cruise nights and meticulously, accurately and freshly restored. It’s not cheap at this price, but the price is no more than this sharp, fresh Mustang deserved to bring.
Lot # F210 1970 Pontiac Trans Am Coupe; S/N 228870L106899; Engine # 0417570 WS; Polar White, Blue stripe/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $45,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $48,600 – 400/345hp Ram Air III, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, shaker hood, Rally II wheels, trim rings, F60-15 Polyglas GT tires, AM-FM, 8-track. – Very good paint, chrome and interior. Restored to good standards of appearance and functionality, not like new, but very close. – As Trans Ams go this Polar White example is attractively presented and has enough muscle under the hood to hold its head high. It was offered here three years ago with a high bid of $38,000 and is reasonably priced in 2014.
Lot # F213 1972 De Tomaso Pantera; S/N THPNMB02424; Red/Black vinyl; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $80,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $86,400 – 351/310hp, 5-speed, cassette stereo, Campagnolo wheels, Michelin blackwall tires, P/W, P/S, P/B. – 1,565 miles from new. Repainted with some flaws showing up, otherwise original and aged. Engine is oily. – Frequently modified, it’s refreshing not only to see a Pantera that has survived in largely original condition but also one that brought an exceptional price reflecting its originality, low miles and exceptional preservation. The result is strong, but not even a little bit more than this Pantera deserved.
Lot # F214 1970 Pontiac GTO Ram Air IV 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 242370P164669; Engine # 305844 WW; Pepper Green/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $79,000 – 400/370hp Ram Air IV, 4-speed, no P/S or P/B, body color wheels, hubcaps, G70-14 Polyglas GT tires, no radio, bench seat. – Freshly restored to showroom condition with excellent paint, bright chrome, stainless and fresh interior. – Sensitively, sympathetically and accurately restored, the consignor’s decision to take this GTO back home at the reported bid is entirely understandable. It may not be a six-figure GTO, but it’s close.
Lot # F215 1959 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N J59S104770; Snowcrest White, Silver coves/Red vinyl; White vinyl top; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $51,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $55,080 – 283/230hp, 4-speed, cassette stereo, spinner wheel covers, whitewall tires. – Represented as 50,649 miles. Decent paint, chrome and interior, orderly underhood, old sealer on underbody. Missing both cockpit trim pieces behind the doors. Repainted over chips. Described as restored 10 years ago, but it wasn’t well restored. – An entirely ordinary Corvette, competently restored to decent driver condition, it is less car than the money it brought.
Lot # F217 1967 Sunbeam Tiger Convertible; S/N B382002684LRXFE; Red/Black leather; Black leatherette top; Recent restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $90,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $97,200 – 8-spoke alloy wheels, Kumho blackwall radials, ashtray. – Good paint, chrome and interior. Orderly but not fresh engine. Good interior. Looks like it was reassembled in a hurry after paint. – Sold here last year for $53,500, a price it should have brought in 2014. It is one expensive Tiger at this price.
Lot # F219 1967 Mercury Comet Sedan; S/N 7H01R544086; Black/Tan; Older restoration, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $175,000 – 427/425hp, 4-speed, P/B, whitewall tires, color-keyed wheels, AM/FM radio with concealed antenna, gauge pack, vinyl/cloth interior, dealership documentation. Ex-Zack Reynolds – Very well maintained original car. Paint has some swirls and scratching, brightwork is lightly scuffed. Chassis and engine show some grime from use, but they aren’t filthy. Tidy interior has little wear. A very interesting and understated stoplight warrior. – An incredibly rare car (reportedly 1 of 6 known to exist) and an ideal sleeper. It must be enormous fun to drive, and just try to find another similarly sized American car from 1967 that packs this kind of wallop. Offered at Mecum Monterey last August with a reported bid of $160,000, then at Kissimmee in January with a bid of $185,000, the message must be getting through to the consignor, who keeps spending money on entry fees and transportation. It’s time to let it go.
Lot # F222 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194377S103103; Engine # T0121JC; Marlboro Maroon, Black stinger/Saddle leather; Cosmetic restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $94,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $101,520 – 427/400hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, A/C, alloy wheels, red line tires, side exhaust, AM-FM. – Stated to be the original engine. Very good paint, chrome and stainless. Interior is sound but stretched and wrinkled. Cosmetically restored a while ago to good driver standards, then driven. Sound, usable and presentable but could be better after being cleaned up under the hood. – Offered here in 2011 with a high bid of $67,500, then a year ago with a bid of only $55,000, the consignor hit the jackpot this year with a truly outstanding price. Make no mistake, this is a good car (if its bona fides are supported) but it isn’t a six-figure Corvette even though the 427/400 hydraulic cam 3-Deuces engine is an easier driver. It is expensive.
Lot # F223 1969 Dodge Super Bee 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N WM23M9A272340; Bright Green Metallic, Matte Black hood/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $67,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $72,360 – 440/390hp Six Pack, 4-speed, 4.1 rear axle, lift-off hood, G70-15 Firestone Sup-r-Belt red line tires, pushbutton radio, buckets and console, heater, woodgrain steering wheel, black steel wheels, hubcaps. – Excellent paint, chrome and interior. Not represented as the original drivetrain. Restored better than new (which might include the drivetrain.) – To all intents and purposes as good as any Hemi, if not with the profile, the price this ’69 Super Bee brought can’t be faulted in any way. The new owner is going to be very proud of it, not only when the hood is up, but also for the price paid.
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Lot # F225 1974 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Coupe; S/N 2V87X4N167750; Engine # 356428; Buccaneer Red/Black vinyl; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $48,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $51,840 – Super Duty 455/290hp, automatic, A/C, P/S, P/B, Radial T/A tires, Rallye II wheels, Pioneer CD player, PHS documentation. – Restored in 2006. Paint is very clean and bright with only a few blemishes. Engine compartment is highly detailed and restored showing few signs of run time. Chassis is like new. Interior looks new with the only signs of use being frayed seat belts. An eye-catching Trans Am. – Super Duty is significant in 1974 only in the context of the smog- and insurance-strangled period in which it was built. Sold by Mecum in Dallas in September 2012 for $50,350, then at Kissimmee in January 2013 for $49,820. Give or take a little bid, it’s going nowhere.
Lot # F228 1950 Buick Roadmaster Convertible; S/N 15774089; Red/Red, Tan leather; Tan cloth top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $96,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $103,680 – 320/152hp, Dynaflow, chrome wire wheels, wide whitewalls, dual remote spotlights, pushbutton radio, P/W, power seat. – Passenger’s door drops a little, both doors have touched up chips on their rear edges. Lightly scuffed trim and some weak chrome on cast trim. Loose ventiport chrome trim. Lightly soiled top. Underbody is like new. An older, quality restoration showing some age and a few shortcuts. Impossible to ignore in this color. – This result should have been sufficient to buy the very best, freshly restored ’50 Buick Roadmaster in the world. Most of them, however, were light yellow, or green. Red made this car pop and red brought a magnanimous premium on the order of 50%.
Lot # F229 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124379N658513; Engine # V0521DZ; Carolina Blue, White stripes/Black vinyl; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $450,000 – 302/290hp with crossram dual quads, 4-speed, Hurst shifter, console gauges, AM-FM, cowl induction hood without internal ducting, long tube headers, Rally wheels with trim rings and center caps, Sports Car 200 tires. – Original and unrestored except for one repaint in its unique special order color. Clean and well maintained but far from pristine. Known history from new, represented as the original engine. – The reported high bid is ludicrous and should be given no credence at all. This is a good but not exceptional Z/28 distinguished solely by the cross ram intake and the special order paint. It has no important ownership history and is an ordinary car trying to build a legend.
Lot # F230 1959 Chevrolet Impala Convertible; S/N F59S143436; Engine # T924GB; Red/Red vinyl, cloth; White vinyl top; Concours restoration, 1 condition; Hammered Sold at $95,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $102,600 – 348/315hp, Powerglide, P/S, no P/B, WonderBar radio, spinner wheel covers, whitewalls, dual rear antennas. – Uneven engine block stamping. Excellent paint, chrome, interior, top and glass. Impressively flat panels, flush fits and even gaps. Fresh and sharp engine compartment. Underbody is better than new. 2014 AACA National First Prize and deserves it. – The engine stamping is not reassuring, and nowhere does the consignor represent it as original or even correct. That aside, however, the restoration is magnificent, crisp and fresh, a car that could not be duplicated for the price it brought. The buyer has a Chevy of indisputable quality and performance.
Lot # F233 1958 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible; S/N P558H1038; Red, India Ivory accent/Red, White vinyl; White vinyl top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $132,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $143,100 – 370/300hp, automatic, Tri-Power, P/S, P/B, vacuum wolf whistle, electric wipers, bucket seats, dummy spotlights, power rear antenna, continental kit, wheel covers, whitewalls, dual outside mirrors, WonderBar radio, curb feelers. – Restored 17 years ago and holding up well. Paint, chrome and interior are very good, particularly for their age. Underbody is clean, orderly and close to showroom. Dash chrome is very good. Gauge faces and lenses are clear and sharp. Engine compartment shows age and some miles and isn’t up to the caliber of the rest of the car but is still very good. – This is a quality, rare car that is holding up very well 17 years after it was restored. The wolf whistle had some onlookers reminiscing about J.C. Whitney and the wonderful (?) things that could be bought there. It and the dummy spots added to the Bonneville’s vintage feel. The price is no more than it is worth, and maybe even a little bit on the good value side of the balance.
Lot # F235 1969 Dodge Charger R/T 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N XS29L9G161676; Green, Black vinyl roof/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $62,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $66,960 – 440/375hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, AM radio, Hurst shifter. – Represented as numbers-matching engine, restoration completed in 2013. Paint has a few chips near the door and trunk seams, but is otherwise sound. Brightwork is lightly scratched and pitted with dull taillight lenses. Engine compartment is clean and showing light use. Chassis is undercoated and has some overspray. Interior shows little wear. Beautiful. – The details on this car fell a little short, but the price didn’t. Still, the new owner won’t be thinking about a few thousand here or that while driving this 440 4-speed down the street. A sound value.
Lot # F236 1966 Chevrolet Biscayne L72 2-Dr. Sedan; S/N 154116L144368; Black/Red vinyl, cloth; Concours restoration, 1 condition; Hammered Sold at $145,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $156,600 – 427/425hp, 4-speed, 4.1 Positraction, heater, radio delete, steel wheels, hubcaps, bias ply blackwall tires, bench seat. – Restoration completed in 2010, AACA Senior winner and still essentially flawless. Gorgeous paint, flat panels, precise gaps, immaculate engine compartment. Paint and chrome are far better than new. California Chevy dealer’s drag race car. Documented with the original order sheet and Protect-o-Plate. – The quality of the restoration is endorsed by its AACA awards and is holding up well four years after it was completed. It’s been a trailer queen since restoration, and may take a little while to shake out for street driving where it will hold up its end of the argument in almost any situation. Expensive, but deserved to be.
Lot # F237 1982 Chevrolet Camaro Le Mans Race Car; S/N SOLD ON BILL OF SALE; White/Black; Competition restoration, 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $150,000 – Dry sump, 4-barrel, covered headlights, stock frame with tube reinforcement, adjustable suspension, fire system, modular 5-bolt wheels, Goodyear slicks. – Not elegant, just brutal and fast. Restored to a journeyman standard in 1982 Le Mans livery where it was driven by Billy Hagan and Gene Felton to 2nd in class and 17th overall, then raced successfully in IMSA. – A relic of the era when IMSA helped the ACO revive interest in the 24 Hours of Le Mans by bringing big, thumping, loud, fast IMSA GTO silhouette racers to Le Mans. The French fans love them, but not even French adulation makes this Camaro worth more than the amount reportedly bid for it here.
Lot # F239 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 Convertible; S/N 8T03S169176; White/Black vinyl; White cloth top; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $132,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $142,560 – 428/335hp, automatic, Ram Air hood, P/S, P/B, factory A/C, 3.00 gears, BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, AM radio, tilt steering column, documented with Marti report. – A sound older restoration showing some use. Paint and brightwork are clean with a few scuffs. Engine compartment and chassis show appropriate grime and deterioration for the 3,056 miles showing on the odometer. Interior is clean with little wear. A very attractive driver. – Shelbys are on the rebound and this price reflects that. A/C is a nice plus that adds all-season practicality.
Lot # F241 1970 Pontiac GTO Ram Air IV 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 242370P271805; Black/Black; Older restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $77,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $83,160. No Reserve – 400/370hp Ram Air IV, 4-speed, Hurst T-handle shifter, hood tach, P/S, P/B, Rally II wheels with trim rings, Wide Oval tires, console, gauges, pushbutton radio, wing. – Restored to better than showroom condition. Black paint is difficult but this solid body, flat panels and even gaps is flawless. Interior, dash, gauges and chrome go along. PHS documented. – Sold here three years ago for $87,980, that’s net (before commission) almost $11,000 loss for the seller. It may have been expensive then, but is sure isn’t now.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Twelve
Lot # F244 2005 Ford GT; S/N 1FAFP90S95Y400682; Red/Black leather; Unrestored original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $225,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $243,000 – 5.4/550hp supercharged engine, 6 speed, McIntosh sound system, lightweight wheels, Eagle F1 tires, red calipers, stripe delete. – One owner car with 376 miles, shipping stickers still on the windshield. – This is what a still in the wrapper Ford GT is worth these days.
Lot # F245 1936 Cadillac Series 85 Limousine, Body by Fleetwood; S/N 4110554; Green, Black leather roof/Tan leather, cloth; Tan cloth top; Recent restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $67,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $72,900 – Dual enclosed sidemounts, chrome wheel discs, Trippe lights, jump seats, smokers kits, rollup division. – An unfortunate attempt at restoration that probably cost a fortune. Upholstery, top and rear broadcloth are good. Paint is flawed in oh so many ways. Cracked right windshield pane. Chipped dashboard and horn button, unfinished door hinge pins, pitted V12 emblems. The list goes on. It will take a lot to make a silk purse out of this. – Offered at Auburn fall last September with a reported high bid exactly the same as the successful hammer bid here. The car is seriously flawed hinting at even more shortcomings where it’s hard to spot and no bargain even at the price. The seller is well rid of it.
Lot # F246 1969 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 Hurst 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 344879M357869; Cameo White, Fire Frost (Gold) stripes/Black; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $60,000 – 455/380hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, Hurst dual gate shifter, bucket seats. – Body-off restoration completed in 2011. Paint looks very good with only a few minor blemishes. Brightwork is fair with some dings and scratches. Engine bay is clean with some small signs of use, underneath is like new. Excellent interior has only minor wear. Show quality. – While not completely fresh, the restoration on this 4-4-2 presented like it was. Bidding feel short by two or three increments, and the seller held firm. It’s hard to criticize the decision, as this was a fantastic car that was only brought down by its transmission.
Lot # F247 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194377S101120; Marina Blue, Black stinger/Bright Blue vinyl; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $117,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $126,360 – 427/400hp, 4-speed, P/B, headrest seats, side exhausts, AM-FM, Rally wheels with trim rings and center caps, red line tires. – Bloomington Gold Certified, 3-time NCRS Top Flight. Excellent paint, chrome, interior, glass. A show car still. – A well-deserved price for a sensational car. Judge ownership is a confidence booster and the presentation couldn’t have been better. Lightly optioned, the price here essentially matches the $126,500 that it brought at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale in 2007.
Lot # F248 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback; S/N 9F02Z194325; Black Jade/Black vinyl; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $237,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $256,500 – KK #1836. 429/375hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, chrome rim Magnum wheels, F60-15 Polyglas GT tires. – A mixed restoration represented as many original panels, engine and transmission. Very good paint and major chrome. Dented nose trim, scratched windshield, dirty dashboard at windshield corners. Elaborately replicated firewall stickers and markings. Uneven hood fit. Hard to figure and apparently never judged. – Reportedly restored by an MCA judge, this Boss Nine’s must have been some sort of practice exercise, because it’s not very good. The price is, though, all the money for the car’s mediocre presentation.
Lot # F250 1966 Shelby Mustang GT350 Fastback; S/N SFM6S1692; Candyapple Red, White stripes/Black vinyl; Concours restoration, 1 condition; Hammered Sold at $160,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $172,800 – 289/306hp, 4-speed, Magnum wheels, Blue Streak tires, woodgrain steering wheel, Shelby dashtop tach, pushbutton radio. – Documented from shipping to the selling dealer. Freshly restored better than new. Fantastic paint, chrome, interior, dash and instruments. – There was a day, not so long ago, when a meticulously, accurately restored, documented from new GT350 would have brought well over $200K. No so these days and that represents a window for opportunistic buyers. There is a lot to like about this GT350, including its price.
Lot # F254 1971 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 W-30 Convertible; S/N 344671M144358; Bittersweet, White accents/Pearl vinyl; White vinyl top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $85,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $91,800 – 455/370hp, automatic, Red plastic wheel wells, Ram Air, dual gate shifter, wing, Rally wheels with trim rings, Wide Oval tires, AM-FM. – Very good clearcoat paint in an unusual, arrest-me, color. Good chrome, interior and top. Rear driver’s door edge is low but closes easily and doesn’t drop. Represented as a matching numbers engine and transmission but states “with W-30 options” which is a little hedgy. Olds Nationals First Place winner. – Maybe it didn’t start with the W-30 stuff, but it’s still a choice piece of American Muscle with a high quality restoration and hard to beat at this price.
Lot # F255 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda Hemi 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N BS23R0B257766; Jamaica Blue, Gold coachline/Black vinyl; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $185,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $199,800 – 426/425hp, automatic, Argent shaker hood, 4.11 rear axle, Rally wheels with trim rings and center caps, F60-15 Polyglas GT tires, hood pins, console, pushbutton radio, underdash Realistic FM converter. – One owner 16,779 mile Hemi ‘Cuda with a mediocre old paint job with many flaws and chips but too good to mess up with a repaint. Surprisingly good chrome, stainless and glass. Much better than a barn find, a real find. Represented as original paint but chips and masking belie that claim. – Offered here a year ago with a reported high bid of $275,000, the successful $185,000 bid here is demonstrative of the slide in Hemi values in recent years. This car has charisma and patina even if the ‘original paint’ claim isn’t manifest on the car. Fast forward to Mecum Seattle’s ‘Cuda Hemi convertible for $3.78 million and explain the order of magnitude difference? Can’t? Not surprising. This is real money for a real car.
Lot # F256 1962 Chevrolet Corvette FI Convertible; S/N 20867S108324; Honduras Maroon, Maroon hardtop/Black vinyl; Black vinyl top; Visually maintained, largely original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $80,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $86,400 – 327/360hp fuel injection, 4-speed, WonderBar radio, two tops, spinner wheel covers, narrow whitewalls. – Good mostly original paint clearcoated for protection with minor cracks and areas of checking. Good chrome and original interior. Underbody is original, with a little dust and dirt. Bloomington Gold Survivor certified, Bloomington Gold Silver certified, NCRS 5-star Bowtie award. – A choice Corvette with all the expert endorsements that could be asked. Offered at Mecum Dallas in 2012 with a high bid of $100K, then sold at Auburn Fall last September for $112,750. Why is it worth 20% less now? The new owner doesn’t care and went home with a quality Fuelie for a modest price.
Lot # F272 1957 Lincoln Mark II Coupe; S/N C56K3417; White/Red, White vinyl; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $29,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $31,320 – 368/300hp, automatic, A/C, Town & Country radio, power seat, P/B, P/S, wheel covers, whitewalls. – Thick, lightly textured repaint, good vinyl upholstery, good major chrome but weak trim. Ugly underbody with old undercoat, surface rust and road dirt. Superficially redone cosmetically but largely neglected where the sun doesn’t shine. – Expensive to restore properly, this Mark II’s seller skipped the difficult parts and left them to the next owner. It’s not a bad car and can be driven as it is, albeit without much pride in its appearance until the neglected maintenance implicit in its presentation begin to impact its drivability. Fortunately the price reflects the faults: no harm, no foul.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Thirteen
Lot # F295 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 166375D122231; Engine # D122231; Evening Orchid/White vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $70,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $75,600 – 409/400hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, A/C, whitewall tires, spinner wheel covers, bucket seats, center console, pushbutton AM/FM radio, gauge pack, console-mounted clock. – Great restoration represented as numbers-matching. Paint is excellent with little wear. Some paint cracking on inside of trunk lid. Minor brightwork blemishes. Nicely restored engine compartment and chassis with a small oil leak coming from the engine. Immaculate interior showing minor wear on the dash dials. Well done. – Interesting and appealing color with a highly desirable drivetrain. Not cheap, but this Impala had eyeball. ‘Evening Orchid’? Sweet. When Kruse sold it in 2005 from the Wiggins collection it brought $69,300, so close to today’s result as to be little different, and still in great condition.
Lot # F302 1971 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 344871G122350; Blue, White/Black; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $55,000 – 455/340hp, 4-speed, power steering, power disc brakes, Ram Air hood, tilt steering column. Comes with broadcast sheet, Protect-O-Plate and dealer invoice. – Represented as numbers-matching engine, body-off restoration completed in 2012 and now very attractive. Paintwork and brightwork have very few flaws. Engine looks better than new. Underneath of the car looks as nice as the outside. Interior correct and free of wear. Very nice show car. – Impressively restored and maintained with little evidence of use or age, but this isn’t a W-30 which the consignor’s decision to turn down the reported high bid seems to imply it should have equaled. It was sold at B-J in Palm Beach in 2012 for $44,000 and bid to $46,000 at Kissimmee in 2013. There is still a wide gap between W-30s and ordinary 4-4-2s, but the high bid was more than ample for what this car is.
Lot # F303 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 9F91S580693; Orange/Black vinyl; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $31,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $33,480 – 390/320hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, non-original 3.50 limited slip, non-original Magnum 500 wheels, AM radio, Marti report. – A very nice restoration of a represented matching numbers engine Cougar Eliminator. Paint is smooth but needs additional finish work to be perfect. Brightwork has minor blemishes. Engine compartment is highly detailed and chassis has been carefully undercoated. Interior is mostly like new but has wear on armrests – This Cougar’s modifications add to its enjoyable driving but not to its collectability. The presentation has some shortcomings, but it still presented well. It’s price is a fair assessment of its value.
Lot # F306.1 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible; S/N D7FH224852; White, White hardtop/Red; Older restoration, 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $30,000 – 312/245hp, automatic, hard top, wide whitewall tires, wheel covers. Believed to be a two-owner car. – Body-off restored. Paint is very good with only a few blemishes. Panels fit very well. Brightwork has some scratches. Engine compartment needs a thorough clean and detail. Chassis is very clean. Interior has been kept up well. Overall a looker. – Well short of the going rate, and on the lower end of the 12 baby birds available in Indy as it should have been in its bare bones equipment as well as the low profile white paint.. Not necessarily deservedly so, either. More than anything this car’s white paint job probably capped its appeal.
Saturday Cars
Lot # S025 1962 Chrysler 300H 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 8423159924; Black/Tan leather; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $28,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $30,240 – 413/380hp, dual quads, automatic, P/S, P/B, P/W, dual A/C, cruise control, wheel covers, narrow whitewalls, pushbutton radio, rear speaker, leather wrapped steering wheel. – Flawed old repaint, some shadowy trim chrome, good bumpers. Engine compartment is orderly and clean. Chassis is aged and shows use. Good upholstery, scratched interior bright trim. An old car with many needs. – Represented as restored, but far from what that term implies today, this is a shaky vehicle that will occupy its new owner for many years making up for stuff overlooked in the past. It is, however, an attractive 300 hardtop and has many virtues undervalued in this result, a good value for someone willing to take it to heart and make it better.
Lot # S026 1940 American Bantam Roadster; S/N 65242; Black, Tan sweep panel/Tan leather; No top; Cosmetic restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $31,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $33,480 – Wind wings, hubcaps, trim rings, whitewalls, skirts, rear-mounted spare. – Good paint, chrome and interior. Chassis and underbody painted assembled. Scuff on right hood side, thin hood ornament chrome. Outie star on right cowl. Badly aged and discolored gauge faces. Old, faded top and side curtains. A quick and superficial cosmetic restoration that looks real good up to about five feet.. – Cute, and cute counts a lot. This Bantam’s many shortcomings are mostly overcome by its cuteness, especially at this price. Enjoy it and don’t pay any attention to the scruffy presentation.
Lot # S030 1990 Shelby Can Am Sports Racer; S/N 012; Red/Black; Competition car, original as-raced, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $37,500 – Comes with log book, assembly manual and service bulletins. – Orderly used race car. Stress cracks on fiberglass body. – Does anyone care? Apparently not.
Lot # S032 1961 Pontiac Ventura 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 561L1179; Maroon/Maroon vinyl; Modified restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $40,000 – 421/421hp, dual quads, Kauffman aluminum heads, cast headers, MSD distributor, P/S, P/B, aluminum radiator, 8-lug wheels, whitewall tires with no markings, underdash gauges, Sun Super tach on steering column, bucket seats, no console, stock shifter, vacuum tank added to feed the brake booster, heater controls and radio antenna, No radio or heater. – Bubble top body. Very good paint, chrome and interior. Thoughtfully modified as it would have been in the Sixties. Clean, orderly and ready to run. – Unfortunately, there were no representations made of this fabulous Pontiac’s correct original configuration, so just about all of its 421/421hp dual quad 4-speed presentation is discounted to made-up. Still, anything approaching the reported high bid should be seen as a gift for a car that will make a stand-up presentation on any cruise night. Anyone appreciating America Muscle will see this as a great drive. It couldn’t be duplicated for anything close to this money and would have been a great buy at the high bid, or even a little more.
Lot # S033 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Fastback; S/N 0F02G169320; Grabber Orange, Black stripes/Black vinyl; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $52,000 – 302/290hp, 4-speed, Hurst T-handle shifter, P/B, MSD ignition, PWR aluminum radiator, chrome rim Magnum wheels, Firehawk tires, rear window louvers, wing, chin spoiler, pushbutton radio. – Good repaint, interior, chrome and stainless. Engine shows use and age, as does the underbody. A well-preserved Boss 302 with desirable modifications and fresh cosmetics. Comes with owner’s manual, Marti Report and ownership history. – Amidst so much muscular Pony Cars at Indy this good Boss 302 may have gone unnoticed. The reported high bid has no relation at all to its value.
Lot # S033.1 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N 194676S122483; Engine # T0513IP 5122483; Copper metallic/Black leather; Black vinyl top; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $60,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $64,800 – 427/425hp, 4-speed, transistor ignition, side exhausts, alloy wheels, blackwall radial tires, AM-FM, Positraction. – Good but excessively glossy clearcoat paint. Good interior, top and chrome. Orderly underhood, freshly cleaned up and detailed. Underbody and chassis show age and some use. ‘Believed to be the original engine’ and appropriately stamped. An older restoration with fresh color changed paint and new leather upholstery. – No-saled at Mecum’s Houston auction a month ago at a reported bid of $66,000, many factors had to be worked into its valuation, from the Christmas-candy paint to the ephemeral attribution of the engine and the color change. No matter how it turns out to be, though, it is a thoroughly enjoyable Corvette driver as a price that no one could criticize, a good value.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Fourteen
Lot # S035.1 1963 Cadillac Park Avenue 4-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 63D066143; Black/Green cloth; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $13,000 – Automatic, P/S, P/B, P/W, Autronic Eye, WonderBar radio, power seat, remote driver’s outside mirror, underdash FM converter, wheel covers, narrow whitewalls. – Sound but flawed old repaint, good chrome and original interior, even gaps, flush panels. Original underbody and frame, dry but dirty. Clean, orderly and unrestored underhood. Impressively sound and luxurious but no A/C. – Sold at Hershey in 2006 for $8,910, sold at Auburn Spring last week for $13,475 ($12,250 hammer), then no-saled here twice, at $13,000 on Saturday and $12,500 on Sunday. Really? At any of these results it is fully valued.
Lot # S065 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 138177A179956; Tahoe Turquoise/Emerald Turquoise; Modified restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $64,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $69,120 – 396/325hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, A/C added with modern compressor, 4.11 axle, buckets, console, factory gauges and tach, woodgrain steering wheel, Rally wheels with trim rings and center caps, Radial T/A tires. – Documented with original purchase paper and Protect-o-Plate. Represented as numbers matching engine but the original Powerglide has been swapped for a TH400 and A/C added using a factory A/C dashboard. Excellent paint, chrome, glass and interior. Fresh and essentially flawless. – An attractive and meticulously presented car, but the modifications put it in the Resto-Mod category, separate from cars restored in their original configuration and all the paper in the world means little to what is offered here. It is, however, eminently usable and in attractive colors, factors that figure into the generous price it achieved.
Lot # S077.1 1949 Hudson Commodore 6 Convertible; S/N 492148457; Pewter/Dark Red leather; Tan cloth top; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $54,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $58,320 – 262/121hp six, 3-speed, windshield visor, turn signals, P/W, skirts, wide hubcaps, trim rings, whitewalls, fog lights, grille guard, remote spotlight. – Freshly repainted in an attractive color but without doing door edges and jambs. Underbody was never done, just squirted with new black underseal. Doors close hard and rattle. Not a reassuring car. – This was a $28,000 car when it crossed the block as a no-sale at the Spring Auburn auction in 2002. It wasn’t great then, and hasn’t had a great life since. Reported sold at Auburn Fall in 2012 for $55,000, the seller should be happy getting out from under it so close to its cost basis.
Lot # S078 1965 Pontiac Catalina 2+2 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 252375R106277; Silver, Black vinyl roof/Black leather; Cosmetic restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $23,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $25,380 – 421/338hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, A/C, pushbutton radio, buckets and console with added SW engine gauges, 8-lug wheels with trim rings and center caps, G/T Qualifier tires. – Good paint and soft leather interior. Wheel wells have been repainted but the rest of the underbody and frame is original, as is the engine compartment. An interesting contrast. Some weak trim chrome that should have been rechromed or replaced when the car got its very good paint job over a filled lower body. A desirable Catalina with much room for improvement. – An attractive and adequate driver bought for an appropriate price. It will take a comprehensive (and very expensive) nut and bolt restoration to make this Catalina 2+2 more valuable, an exercise that would be money down the drain.
Lot # S078.1 1959 Ford Galaxie Skyliner; S/N B9KW112967; Black/Red, Black vinyl; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $49,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $52,920 – 332/225hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, P/W, A/C, wheel covers, whitewalls, chrome rear fender shields, dual outside mirrors. – Sound but thick old repaint, cracked steering wheel, good interior. Superficially redone underbody and frame. Pitted interior trim chrome. Visible areas underhood heavily covered in gloss black and turquoise but no attention paid to the bottom. A typical superficially redone Skyliner. – So many times Skyliner retractables are cosmetically lacking. Their complex electro-hydraulic-mechanical roof mechanisms take infinite, meticulous attention, leaving no time, attention or money for the things that separate good cars from mediocre ones. This one is barely mediocre and will not be a satisfying acquisition.
Lot # S079 1954 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible; S/N 546244153; Alpine White/Red, White leather; Black vinyl top; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $54,000 – 331/230hp, automatic, wheel covers, wide whitewalls, WonderBar radio, skirts, P/W, chrome Dagmar tips. – Good paint and lightly stretched upholstery. Good major chrome but pitted trim. Orderly but aged underbody. An attractive driver with an impressive ownership file. – Sold at Auburn Fall in 2010 for $35,475, this is not an encouraging Cadillac and the consignor was blind not to have taken money if there was any even close to this reported high bid.
Lot # S080.1 1955 Packard Caribbean Convertible; S/N 55881108; White Jade, Rose Quartz and Onyx/White Jade, Rose Quartz, Onyx leather; White vinyl top; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $75,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $81,000 – 352/260hp, single 4-barrel, automatic, P/S, P/B, P/W, dual outside mirrors, chrome wire wheels, wide whitewalls, dual rear mirrors, WonderBar radio. – Old paint, chrome and interior holding up pretty well but showing age. Likewise the interior chrome. Underbody has been done, but not very thoroughly. Exterior repaint didn’t get to the firewall or edges of the engine compartment. Engine has been superficially dressed up with some paint. An unsatisfying old cosmetic restoration. – No-saled by Auctions America at Ft. Lauderdale in March at $52,500, then at Auburn Spring last week at $66,000, the result here can best be explained by a momentary flash of brilliance caused by the Caribbean’s gorgeous colors. A home run? Probably not, but a triumph of rarity and fabulous colors over presentation. The new owner should not be unhappy, just uncertain.
Lot # S084 1969 Chevrolet Corvette L89 Roadster; S/N 194679S731301; Red/Red vinyl; White vinyl top; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $113,400 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $122,472 – 427/435hp, L89 aluminum heads, automatic, P/S, P/B, wheel covers, red line tires, AM-FM, P/W. – Excellent paint, chrome, glass and interior. Clean, sharp engine compartment except for a little leakage on the brake master cylinder. Tank sticker documented, owner history from new. NCRS Second Flight in 2012. – Not Top Flight, and an automatic [which fully qualifies for the description ‘rare’ if not ‘desirable’] it’s hard for a non-expert to identify why this sharp, crisp Corvette isn’t top-of-the-heap. It would not have been surprising to see it bring 20% more if only on account of its slushbox’s rarity.
Lot # S087 1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible; S/N 26782636; Sierra Sand/White, Coral; White vinyl top; Cosmetic restoration, 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $62,000 – 327/180, 4-barrel, automatic, P/S, P/W, WonderBar radio, continental kit, chrome wire wheels, wide whitewalls. – Fresh paint, bright chrome, good interior, older top. Orderly but not restored underhood, frayed window seals, crazing steering wheel, cracks at hood scoop corners. Underbody shows age and use. Paint is new; the color is closer to pink than sand. Pretty car in decent driver condition. – A disappointing Caribbean, and the seller must have been disappointed by the bid it brought even though it was appropriate to the presentation. It was a no-sale here in 2011 at $72,000.
Lot # S087.1 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 136370A130719; Cortez Silver, Black vinyl roof/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $100,000 – LS-6 454/450hp, M22 4-speed, Hurst shifter, cowl induction, 3.31 Positraction, F41 suspension, P/S, P/B, Magnum wheels with trim rings, F70-14 Polyglas tires, factory gauges, AM-FM, bench seat. – Freshly, meticulously restored better than new. Excellent paint, chrome, interior, etc. – Here’s the rub with this otherwise spectacular Chevelle: There’s absolutely NO documentation this is how it was built in Atlanta in 1970. It was bid to $85,000 here three years ago in 2011 and may be more attractive as a ‘Resto-Mod’ in 2014, but the consignor has to come clean and present the car for what it is. Which is, no matter where you look, beautiful. Does it deserve six-figures? Accurately presented without creating uncertainty it might, but trying to pass it off with unspecified descriptions is never going to realize its full value.
Lot # S089 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 RS 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124379N662566; LeMans Blue, White stripes/Black vinyl, white houndstooth; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $70,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $75,600 – 302/290hp, 4-speed, Hurst shifter, P/B, cowl induction, Rally wheels with center caps and trim rings, F70-15 Polyglas tires, console gauges, rosewood grain steering wheel, dual outside mirrors. – Excellent paint, interior, glass, instruments and chrome (except for some file marks under the chrome on the right end of the rear bumper.) Engine compartment, chassis and underbody are sharp, fresh and like new. Represented as matching numbers engine. Beautiful. – A choice Z/28 bought for a choice price. The collector car market has some hot buttons lately, but they don’t seem to have ‘Z/28’ printed on them and this is a great place to have some real fun and park a few bucks in a place that has limited downside, particularly for accurately and comprehensively restored Z/28s like this. It’s bought right and has legs at this price.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Fifteen
Lot # S092 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N JS23V1B342716; White, Black vinyl roof and side stripes/Bright Blue vinyl; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $80,000 – 440/385hp Six Pack, automatic, Black shaker hood, P/S, P/B, Rally wheels with trim rings, Radial T/A tires, Super Track Pack, wing, hood pins, gauges, console. – Freshly restored with excellent cosmetics throughout. Clean, crisp and like new. Even the inside of the doors are clean and like new. A superb, fresh restoration. – This is a beautiful Mopar, restored by a Mopar expert. It doesn’t claim ‘matching numbers’ but is done to standards most Hemis never experience and has the right ‘V’ code in its VIN. Is it worth a third less than a Hemi Challenger with similarly challenged documentation? It would be an exceptional buy at the reported high bid, a car the new owner could crow over on any cruise night.
Lot # S093 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air FI Convertible; S/N VC57L157603; Engine # F301EJ; Red/Red, Silver vinyl; White vinyl top; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $137,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $147,960 – 283/250hp fuel injection, 3-speed, P/S, P/B, WonderBar radio, power rear antenna, spinner wheel covers, bias ply whitewalls, Electro-Vac windshield wiper booster. – Excellent paint, notable for not being excessively clear coated. Brilliant chrome. Fresh, tight upholstery and top. A freshly restored, topnotch Bel Air represented as matching numbers. – A fully dressed and equipped Bel Air with the hydraulic lifter FI V-8 that made it a hero in 1957. ‘Matching numbers’ in 1957 is a bit of a quandary, relating only to the Flint engine plant stamping on the block and with no further documentation apparent. But still, if someone wants a hero ’57 Bel Air, this is it. The restoration is just right and the 3-speed/hydraulic FI V-8 is to dream of owning. It’s got all the stuff, even power steering (my ’57 Bel Air convertible didn’t and parallel parking was an exercise) and is a reasonable buy even at this price.
Lot # S094 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 136370K157252; Black Cherry/Black; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $70,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $75,600 – 396/350hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, rear window defogger, 8-track radio, F41 suspension, more. – Restored like new, right down to the firewall crayon marks. Excellent cosmetics. Fastidiously detailed engine compartment. Documented with 3 build sheets, original Protect-O-Plate, copy of original owner title, Represented as original drivetrain all the way through the rear axle. Magnificent. Looks terrific in Black Cherry. – This is one heck of a good Chevelle, thoroughly documented including 996 point national show judging evaluation. If there was a car in Indy that deserved to be described as ‘needs nothing’, this is it, the perfect car to point to in support of the suggestion, ‘buy the best car you can afford’. And at this price it’s not even expensive.
Lot # S098 1971 Dodge Charger Super Bee 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N WM23V1A191450; Black/Black; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $91,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $98,280 – 440/385hp Six Pack, 4-speed, Track Pack, Ramcharger hood, stripe delete, pistol grip shifter, bucket seats, window sticker, original purchase agreement. – Fresh cosmetic restoration on a car with 10,923 miles and claimed to be original drivetrain. Fresh paint job looks great with just a few prep flaws. Brightwork is good with a few scratches and some pitting on the rear bumper. Engine bay is very clean with some use. Underneath was been undercoated a while ago. Interior is excellent. The car presents very well and could be a possible show winner. – While the low miles is posed as a positive attribute, it actually suggests only that it racked up miles in quarter-mile bursts. What’s really amazing is the claimed survival of the original drivetrain after that kind of abuse. This is a premium price for a good, but somewhat tired, Super Bee. Just think how much fun it will be to drive it back and forth to the show.
Lot # S098.1 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N JH23J0B279397; Yellow, Black/Black; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $60,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $64,800 – 340/290hp, automatic, megaphone side pipes, fresh air hood, rally gauges, slapstick shifter, broadcast sheet included. – Represented as numbers-matching driveline. Repaint is excellent, with only some small flaws in prep work. Brightwork is good with only some minor dings. Panel gaps and fitment could be better addressed. Engine bay is very clean with light use. Underneath is good with older undercoating. Interior is very nice. A great looking car. – If the song of the six pack doesn’t gain attention, the bumble bee paint scheme certainly will. After two no-sales in 2010, here for $57,500 and at Auburn Fall at a paltry $46,000, this is a reasonable price for slapstick T/A in excellent condition.
Lot # S101.1 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N 194675S116550; Engine # 5116550; Red, Red hardtop/White leather, Red carpets; White top; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $75,000 – 327/365hp, 4-barrel, 4-speed, P/B, manual steering, centerlock alloy wheels, hard top, pushbutton AM/FM radio, wood rim steering wheel. – A car that shows little deterioration since restoration. The paint and brightwork are clean but have some imperfections and expected wear from use. The engine has a little grime and patina from running. The interior is clean and only lightly worn in the expected places. A good car that has been driven and enjoyed. – Bid to $70,000 at Kissimmee earlier this year, the seller is relying on a generous option list to support a premium price, but this isn’t a big block and could have been sold without regret for the reported high bid. Perhaps the candy striper color combo didn’t speak to the Indy audience.
Lot # S103.1 1969 Chevrolet Camaro COPO Coupe; S/N 124379N640918; Engine # T0423M0; Orange/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $115,000 – 427/425hp, “experimental” 400 Turbo-Matic transmission, 4.10 Posi-traction, power disc brakes, manual steering, Goodyear Wide Tread tires, body-color wheels, spoiler package, heater delete, base gauge package, column-shift. – Well executed and recent nut-and-bolt restoration, represented as ‘numbers-matching.’ Paint is to all intents and purposes perfect and far better than factory. Brightwork is shiny and like new. Engine compartment is restored well but the replicated engine paint overspray was applied a little heavy. Lots of attention paid to chassis. Interior is nearly perfect. Better than new. – The resto on this COPO was really well done and there wasn’t much to detract from the car aside from the transmission. That’s a big “aside”, though. High bid accurately reflects the hit of the slushbox and is congruent with the $120,000 to which it was reported bid at Houston a month ago.
Lot # S104 1960 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N 00867S100808; White, White/Red; White top; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $142,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $153,900 – 283/270hp dual quads, 4-speed, two tops, 4:11 Posi-traction, Bloomington Gold 1988, 1998 and 2013. NCRS Regional Bowling Green 1999 and 1977. – Absolutely stunning with a fresh restoration. Bright and smooth paint has only a few small chips in the front of the car. Engine bay is spotless. Underneath looks new. New top fits and looks perfect. Glossy interior absolutely sings. Just about perfect and extensively documented including the original title, dealer invoice and owner card. – Amazing price, really, but the winning bidder certainly took the tested adage of “buy the best you can afford” to heart. While Fuelies get all of the attention, the solid lifter dual quad engine is generally regarded as the better choice to own and drive, and there aren’t many examples out there better than this one, particularly with its documentation.
Lot # S105 2003 Ferrari 456M GTA Coupe; S/N ZFFWL50A830132002; Silver/Black leather; Unrestored original, 3+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $60,000 – Automatic, SF shields, CD changer stereo, silver calipers, A/C, books, tools. – Clean used car, no nose chips, nearly pristine upholstery. Odometer shows 9,186 believable miles. – Sold at Mecum’s Monterey auction last year for $70,620. The high bid here would have been $64,800 with commission, right in line with the depreciation curve these cars are on. The seller should have taken the money, if there was any, and moved on.
Lot # S107 1969 Dodge Coronet R/T Convertible; S/N WS27L9G125096; Green, White/White, Green vinyl; White vinyl top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $52,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $56,160 – 440/375hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, redline tires, bucket seats, AM radio. AACA national champion. – Very clean with minor imperfections. The paint has minor marks from use, brightwork is slightly blemished, top has mild creasing. Engine compartment is clean and well prepped. Chassis is in good shape with only minor road grime. Interior is clean but shows signs of use. An interesting car presented very well. – Reportedly one of 318 440/375 Coronet convertibles from 1969. Sold right where it should have, but still a lot of car for the money. Offered at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in January with a reported bid of $43,000 and worth the wait, transportation and entry fee for the extra $9,000.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Sixteen
Lot # S108 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS 396 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 124379L509335; Green, White, Green/Green; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $50,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $54,000 – 396/325hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, Posi-traction, tinted windows, Rallye wheels, bumper guards, vinyl top, tilt steering column, console gauges. – A recent rotisserie restoration and represented as numbers-matching engine. Paint is good with a few scratches and chips throughout. Panel gaps are even except for the trunk lid. Brightwork has only minor imperfections. Vinyl top was hastily installed and doesn’t fit perfectly. Engine bay is clean with typical signs of use, underneath is very clean. Interior is excellent. Mostly well presented. – A few details didn’t hold up to close scrutiny, but the audience handicapped the price accordingly and bought a good car for an appropriate price. It was sold at the Fall Branson auction in 2005 for $35,510, then turned again for Barrett-Jackson in Palm Beach where it brought $49,140. It’s good when a car can be owned and enjoyed for eight years and turned over for exactly what was paid for it, rewarding the intervening owners for keeping it in such good condition.
Lot # S110.1 1969 Pontiac Firebird Convertible; S/N 223679U134001; Blue/White; White top; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $80,000 – 400/330hp, 4-speed, Polyglas tires, Rallye wheels, non-original Ram Air III hood and air cleaner, AM radio, PHS documented. – Paint is excellent with only niggling blemishes. Top looks new and fits well. All brightwork shiny and sound with only minor scratches. Engine is immaculate. Interior looks new and has no wear. A recent body-off restoration and a beautiful show-quality Firebird. – This Firebird looked and felt great, but the reported bid is in true RA III territory and it is surprising that this bid was refused.
Lot # S112 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback; S/N 8T02S169370-01686; Gold, White stripes/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $132,500 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $143,100 – 428/335hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, A/C, 10-spoke alloy wheels, Radial T/A tires, console gauges, pushbutton radio. – Documented with much original paper and represented as one of only 11 like it with the 4-speed and factory A/C. Restored better than new with shiny clearcoat paint, good chrome and interior. Clean and sharp underhood, showing a little age and some miles but also very well maintained. – A no-sale at the Russo and Steele Scottsdale auction a year and a half ago at the disappointing bid of $100,000. It now shows 111 more miles on the odometer and brought a much more appropriate price.
Lot # S113 1969 Plymouth Road Runner Hemi 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N RM23J9G169167; Gold, Brown vinyl roof, Matte Black hood/Tan vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $106,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $114,480 – 426/425hp Hemi, dual quads, 4-speed, Hurst shifter, Air Grabber hood, 3.54 Sure Grip, heater, pushbutton radio, woodgrain steering wheel, remote outside mirror, body color wheels, hubcaps, redline tires. – Restored like new with very good cosmetics, thoroughly detailed engine compartment. Aside from paint scraped off the hood hinges this Road Runner is hard to fault. – A no-sale earlier this year at Kissimmee at exactly the same reported bid, the seller learned from the experience and seized the opportunity here in Indy. It’s hard to argue with the value, not only for the Hemi and 4speed but also for the eye-grabbing color scheme and superior restoration.
Lot # S116.1 1935 Cadillac 355-D V-8 Convertible Sedan; S/N 317750; Red/Tan leather; Tan cloth top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $156,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $168,480 – Red disc wheels, wide whitewalls, dual enclosed sidemounts with mirrors, skirted rear wheels, chrome luggage rack, radio, fog lights. – Ordered new for the 1935 Shriner’s Conclave in Washington D.C., documented with a copy of the build sheet, used as their parade car throughout the 1930s. Concours restored with great paint, chrome and interior. No longer fresh, but spectacular in Red. – This is a sharp car, but should lose the rear wheel spats even if that detracts from the Shriner’s story. It was a no-sale at RM’s Meadow Brook auction in 2008 with a bid of $92,500 against an estimate of $110-$140,000. Now has 83 more miles on the odometer and brought a very strong price.
Lot # S120.1 1931 Studebaker President Roadster; S/N 7037191; Gray, Blue fenders and accent/Grey leather; Black cloth top; Older restoration, 1 condition; Hammered Sold at $139,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $150,120 – Blue wire wheels, wide whitewalls, dual sidemounts with strap-on mirrors, oval Clolite headlights, mesh radiator stoneguard, folding windshield, rumble seat, luggage rack. – CCCA Primary, Senior and Premier award winner, an older restoration recently freshened by LaVine and show ready. – Studebakers are showing surprising strength after years of being passed over in favor of more established classic marques. The history of this President is instructive: Sold by RM at Meadow Brook in 2007 for $115,500, it brought $133,100 at Auctions America’s Auburn Fall last September, then turned a small, but deserved, profit here. A seriously sound and attractive car.
Lot # S126 1995 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 Coupe; S/N 1G1YZ22J1S5800427; Torch Red/Red leather; Unrestored original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $60,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $64,800 – 350/405hp, 6-speed, cruise control, power mirrors, P/B, A/C, P/W, P/S, painted glass and extra clear roof panels, hybrid instrument panel, Bose stereo, power windows, power seats, power locks, tire pressure monitor. – 60 original miles and still looks completely new. Not a single flaw in the paint anywhere. Comes with the extra, clear glass roof panel. – Here’s the answer for what a brand-new ZR-1 costs today, out of the box. ZR1s are on a lot of watch list, and this sale illustrates why. The rub is that, like ’76 Indy Pace Cars, there are lots of ZR-1s out there that were wrapped up with delivery miles on them and stuck in a vault as an ‘instant collectible.’ Does this price validate the practice? No. This was a $70,000 car when new, and probably cost the buyer a substantial premium over MSRP to get it, so after 19 years of storage, insurance and foregone opportunity cost, it brought $10,000 less than the original sticker price. Investment? Not so much.
Lot # S128 1934 Buick 60 Series 3-Window Coupe; S/N 2716885; Black/Grey cloth; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $60,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $64,800 – Metal spoke wheels, hubcaps, wide whitewalls, dual horns, rumble seat, enclosed rear spare, heater. – Very good paint, chrome and interior. Chassis is aged and a little oily from use. Restored 30 years ago and holding up extremely well. An excellent, shiny tour car. – The closed body does nothing for this Buick’s value and its old restoration further faults the price it brought here, even as well maintained as it is. It would have been a sound value at $40,000.
Lot # S129 1937 Buick Century Convertible; S/N 3144738; Dark Blue/Brown leather; Beige cloth top; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $90,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $97,200 – 320/130hp, 3-speed, dual enclosed sidemounts, hubcaps, trim rings, wide whitewalls, fog lights, radio, rumble seat, heater defroster. – 1983 AACA National First Prize winner and still has excellent paint and chrome. Driver’s seat is a little worn and stretched and the top is faded. Top latch and frame chrome is weak. Underbody is a little aged but clean. The way the restoration is holding up is a testament to its quality and its subsequent care. It’s not a show car, but it’s more than good enough to be toured with pride. – The Buick Century is the first Muscle Car, with the big Roadmaster and Limited 320 cubic inch Valve-in-Head Buick Eight shoehorned into the lightweight Special chassis lengthened 6 inches for the bigger engine and carried on one inch smaller 15 inch wheels. What stands out with this Century Convertible is how well the restoration was done, and how well it has been maintained. It’s a satisfying, reassuring car and that more than supports the premium price it brought.
Lot # S132 1970 Buick GSX Stage I 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 446370H276598; Yellow, Black/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $113,400 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $122,472 – 455/360hp, automatic, represented as numbers matching, P/S, P/B, rally ride control, clock, bucket seats. Documented and registered with the GSX historical society, Buick Club of America senior awarded. – Concours-quality body-off the frame restoration. Panel gaps are only slightly off. All brightwork is excellent. Paint has little to no significant flaws. Engine bay is very clean and only shows a tiny amount of wear on the exhaust. Underneath is spotless. Interior still smells new. This is a beautiful example of a GSX. – Hagerty Price Guide, auction estimates, the high bid and the seller’s assessment all intersect at this, so this can confidently be labeled a market transaction, even though this car sold here a year ago for $107,000 (which must have been a ‘bargain’?)
Lot # S134 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 Roadster; S/N CSX 2135; Dark Blue, /; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $850,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $918,000 – 347 cubic inch engine with four Weber carbs, headers, 4-speed, kidney bean style centerlock alloy wheels, BFG radial tires, grille and trunk guard. – Original engine with single 4-barrel intake and wire wheels included. Invoiced to Ford’s Jacques Passino and used as a Ford demonstrator, later stolen, then recovered. Good paint, chrome and interior. Orderly and very clean underhood. Restored to showroom condition with some subsequent use but still very clean. A desirable early rack and pinion car that must be exciting to drive with the big engine and Webers. – A somewhat fractured history, but attractively restored and presented with a glorious engine compartment with the Webers. The price it brought here is all the money for its history.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Seventeen
Lot # S136 1967 Jaguar XKE SI 4.2 Convertible; S/N 1E14628; Engine # 7E12044-9; Primrose Yellow/Black; Black vinyl top; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $95,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $102,600 – Chrome wire wheels, blackwall radial tires, Panasonic CD stereo. – Good paint, weak taillight and trim chrome. Good upholstery and top. Dirty and very used engine compartment. Frame painted assembled and over all the fasteners. A 2005 cosmetic redo that has been heavily used since. – Not an attractive car, either in its presentation or in the caliber of its workmanship. The price it brought is indicative of present effusive XKE values. This one would have been a more appropriate value at $75,000.
Lot # S137 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194376S124566; Engine # 6124566; Silver/Black leather; Recent restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $137,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $147,960 – 427/425hp, 4-speed, transistor ignition, 4.11 Posi-traction axle, pushbutton AM/FM radio, Goodyear Power Cushion tires, spinner hubcaps, documentation and Protect-O-Plate. Bloomington Gold certified and NCRS top flight awarded. – Body-off restoration done to high standards on a car represented as ‘41,000 original miles’ (although the odometer reads 42,192.) Paint is stunning. Brightwork is better than new. Engine and chassis are show-prepped and detailed. Interior is like new. Nothing short of show car status. – A generous result for a ’66 coupe, even in such magnificent condition and with low (if confused) miles.
Lot # S143 1972 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 1Z67L2S520743; Engine # 12S520743; Yellow, Yellow/Black; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $96,000 – 350/255hp LT1, 4-speed, power steering, manual brakes, Firestone Wide Oval whitewall tires, pushbutton AM/FM radio, vinyl seats. 2007 Bloomington Gold survivor and Benchmark. – A very attractive survivor with matching numbers. Paint is very good and shows surprisingly low deterioration considering the age. Only some minor scuffs and cracks throughout. Brightwork in a similar state. Engine has expected patina but isn’t grimy. Chassis has some road grit with minimal surface rust behind original paint. Interior is clean and solid. – Benchmark status is huge, but not as huge as this bid. The amount offered seemed like more than enough, even in light of the current “survivor” craze. The history of this car’s auction appearances traces the rise and fall of survivor Corvettes: Sold for $110,000 at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale in 2007, no-sale at Mecum’s Bloomington Gold in 2009 bid to $85,000, then at Kissimmee in 2010 at $90,000 and here in 2010 at $77,500. It should have sold here.
Lot # S144 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible; S/N E7FH264695; Peach/Peach; Cream top; 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $85,000 – 312/270hp dual quads, automatic, P/S, porthole top, chrome wire wheels, fender skirts, wide white wall tires, later A/C. – Beautiful paint. Panel gaps look great excepting the trunk. Engine bay was restored a while ago and is now showing age. Underneath the car looks amazing. Interior is like new and has no wear. A choice, but somewhat aged T-bird. – The bidders weren’t impressed by the ambitious $150-140,000 pre-sale estimates and stopped way short at a value that was more than fair for this T-bird’s aged restoration, even for an E-bird.
Lot # S148 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge Coupe; S/N 242370P172989; Cardinal Red, White roof/Red; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $80,000 – 400/370hp, P/S, P/B, Rallye II wheels, hood-mounted tachometer, rally gauges, bucket seats, console, 8-track player, PHS documentation. – Represented as Ram Air IV. Paint is beautiful with no flaws. Outstanding brightwork has only a few scratches around the windows. Panel gaps are even. Underneath is freshly restored. Engine bay is clean with light use. Interior is new with no wear. Comprehensively restored to show car condition. – Reportedly the only GTO built to this option specification. A substantially low bid if this car’s numbers are in order. An RA IV Judge is top of the heap for GM’s performance division. This car’s bid history suggests more than one bidders have had doubts: sold for $68,900 at Kissimmee in 2013, then no-saled at Dallas last September at $70,000 and sold at Kissimmee in January for $91,800, there are questions to be answered.
Lot # S152 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Yenko Coupe; S/N 124378N420630; Sequoia Green, White stripes/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 1- condition; Hammered Sold at $320,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $345,600 – 427/425hp, 4-speed, 3.73 Posi-traction, redline tires, AM radio, gauge pack, tachometer, Yenko order # 00797, Yenko Serial # YS-8019, original title. – Beautifully restored, represented as original miles with the odometer showing only 1,304 miles and represented as the original engine. Panel gaps are perfect, as is the paint work. Brightwork is lightly scuffed. Engine compartment is clean with virtually no signs of use. Underneath is spotless. A near-perfect interior. An amazing example of Yenko muscle. – Is it time to get out of COPO Camaros? This result would seem to indicate that the seller elected to take the money even with all the good things going for this Yenko Camaro. By any standards this is a superior Yenko for an appropriate price.
Lot # S157 1969 Camaro COPO RS Coupe; S/N 124379N660930; Engine # 1021MN; Blue, Black vinyl room/Black vinyl; Visually maintained, largely original, 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $320,000 – 427/4254hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, body-color rims, Uniroyal Tiger Paw tires, center console, gauge pack, AM radio. Dealer paperwork, invoice, and money order from purchase included along with the Protect-O-Plate. COPO Connection registered. – Paint reportedly 85% original showing minor blemishes and imperfections appropriate to its Norwood application and age with 15,001 miles from new. The engine and chassis were very clean and well prepped. The interior shows little to no wear. A well kept piece of muscle car history. A beautiful, mostly original car. Represented as the original engine and exceptionally well preserved with no more than careful preservation. – Bid to $210,00 at Auctions America’s Ft. Lauderdale auction in March, how much more does the consignor expect?
Lot # S160 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe; S/N 194377S110331; Goodwood Green, White/Black leather; 2 condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $100,000 – 427/435hp, 4-speed, transistorized ignition, side exhaust, redline tires, F41 suspension, non-original power brakes, power windows, non-original leather upholstery, power locks. – Represented as matching numbers and original 24,527 miles. Brightwork is great except for some gouges on the windshield surround. Panel gaps could use some attention. Paint has a great shine but shows lots of small swirls. Engine is clean but demonstrates honest use. Very good underneath. – A really sharp looking car that could easily have attracted $20K-$30K more and still been a value. Mid-year ‘Vettes were not in short supply, so this could be a situation where the micro-demand in Indy was sated. Seller was certainly justified to keep a fine car at the reported high bid.
Lot # S163 1931 Cadillac 370-A V-12 Roadster, Body by Fleetwood; S/N 1004546; Burgundy, Black fenders/Tan leather; Black cloth top; Older restoration, 1- condition; Hammered Sold at $215,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $232,200 – Chrome spoke body color wire wheels, wide whitewalls, dual sidemounts with strap-on mirrors, wind wings, Pilot-Rays, rumble seat, luggage rack, golf bag door, radiator stoneguard. – Very good older restoration with sharp paint, chrome, interior and top. Chassis shows a little age and some miles but the cosmetics are remarkable. The engine compartment is like Tiffany’s window: understated but luxuriously eloquent. – CCCA Full Classic ™ with desirable open roadster coachwork and strong, nearly silent V-12 power, bought for a reasonable price that any auction company would be proud to advertise, a refreshing change in a sea of American Muscle in Indy.
Lot # S168 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N JS23R1B242313; Black/Black; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $250,000 – 426/425hp, dual quads, 4-speed, 3.54 Dana 60 Sure-Grip, Track Pack, pistol grip shifter. Known ownership from new. – Represented as all original, including the 63,945 miles on the odometer and the drivetrain. Paint is blemished, chipped and even burned through from polishing in areas. Brightwork is pitted and scratched throughout. Engine compartment is clean and presentable. Underneath looks freshly undercoated. Interior is fair. Seats have little wear but carpets are trampled. – An intriguing survivor car, but it’s been peddled plenty recently It was sold at Worldwide’s Houston auction in 2006 for $341,000. Bids prior to this were $200,000 at RM Arizona and $300,000 at Mecum Monterey both last year. There is a disconnect between the consignor’s expectation and that of the bidders.
Mecum Original Spring Classic Indianapolis 2014 – Auction Report Page Eighteen
Lot # S173 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Yenko Coupe; S/N 124379N614999; Green, White, Black/Black; 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $170,000 – Engine installed by Yenko instead of on the GM line, but documented in the Super Car Registry and the COPO Connection. Power brakes, Goodyear Polyglas tires, Rallye wheels, vinyl top, knee-knocker tachometer, Hurst shifter, center console, AM radio, vinyl – A very strong car that hasn’t been overly detailed. Paint has only minor blemishes, brightwork is clean with minimal wear. Engine compartment and chassis are clean but show signs of use. Air filter decal peeling. Seats and steering wheel have light wear. – A great presentation, but the buyers didn’t step up. Another $30,000 is warranted assuming the paperwork is in order.
Lot # S175 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback; S/N 67410F7A01874; Gold, White/Black; Unrestored original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $116,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $125,280 – 428/435hp dual quads, automatic, P/S, P/B, Traction-Lok, fog lights, 10-spoke wheels, Goodyear Polyglas tires, bucket seats, fold-down rear seats, visor signed by Carroll Shelby. Carries original bill of sale and broadcast sheet. – Said to be all original, showing 48,428 believable but not documented miles on the odometer. Paint is good, though some chips and scratches are showing. Brightwork is scratched and scuffed. Windshield is starting to delaminate. Engine bay is clean with typical wear for mileage. Chassis is clean and undercoated. Detailed interior. – The originality of this Shelby GT500 is highly impressive. It might have brought more with a 4-speed, in fact it could have brought more with the automatic and still been a sound value on account of its originality alone. It’s a very good car and one to own proudly. Importantly, with the mileage showing it can be driven as much as any classic muscle car with little effect on its value.
Lot # S176 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 136370L161007; Green, White stripes/White; Visually maintained, largely original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $71,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $76,680 – 454/450hp LS6, automatic, P/S, P/B, 4.10 axle, Polyglas tires, Rallye wheels, column shift, gauge pack, AM/FM radio, bench seat, vinyl interior. Build sheet and ownership history included. – Represented as the original drivetrain documented with build sheet and title history back to its initial delivery. An attractive, interestingly equipped, mostly original LS6. Paint is very clean with minimal scratching or chipping. Minimal brightwork pitting. Engine is nearly immaculate. Chassis is clean and undercoated. Interior shows more age than the rest of the car but is still eminently usable, especially for being white. – Sold by Mecum at Kissimmee for $79,000 in 2011, then peddled there in 2012 and 2013 both no-sales at $70,000. The seller got the message and took the money here. It’s an intriguing car with a desirable combination of originality, condition and specifications. Had it brought a little more it wouldn’t have been expensive.
Lot # S182 1957 Chevrolet Corvette FI Convertible; S/N E57S101512; Red, White coves/Red; White vinyl top; Recent restoration, 1 condition; Hammered Sold at $100,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $108,000 – 283/283hp fuel injection, 4-speed, whitewall tires, radio delete. – 100 miles on a 20-year restoration. Flawless paint. Brightwork like new. Panel gaps perfect with the exception of the top boot cover. Engine compartment is extremely clean. Underneath is spotless. Interior is completely new. – Hard to say what held this car back in the bidders’ minds, but perhaps it was the length of the restoration, which can often result in uneven work. This ‘Vette’s work didn’t seem to suffer in the slightest and its presentation was beyond reproach
Lot # S183 1962 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N 21537J124578; Black/Blue vinyl, cloth; Modified restoration, 2 condition; Post-block sale at $66,960 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $72,317 – 409/409hp, dual quads, 4-speed, No power steering or power brakes, Firestone Indy 500 blackwall tires, body-color wheels, AM radio, knee-knocker tachometer, gauge pack. – A very big, very attractive car with a paint job that reportedly cost over $20,000. It was money well spent. Engine compartment and chassis are just about perfect, with a leaky differential being the only apparent flaw. – The “15” in the second and third positions of the VIN indicate this Impala was born with a 6-cylinder, which the bidders clearly realized. Sold after it left the block for half what a “real” 409/409 would, which is reasonable. Offered earlier this year at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction with a reported high bid of $72,000. Bet the seller regrets holding out for more money in January.
Lot # S185 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda Hemi 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N BS23R1B295953; Green, Black vinyl roof/Black vinyl; Older restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $260,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $280,800 – 426/425hp, dual quads, 4-speed, warranty-replaced block. No power steering, no power brakes, Goodyear Polyglas GT tires, shaker hood, Track Pack 3.54 Sure Grip, pistol grip shifter, AM radio with 8-track player. Same owner for 35 years. – A well restored car with very little to fault. Trim and paint have only minor scuffs and scratches. Interior, chassis, and engine compartment present like new. A very attractive Hemi. – Hemi E-bodies have been making noise over the past six months with a number of strong sales. This car, however, even with its replacement block, sold for an historically realistic price, about where the earlier Challenger Hemi was bid.
Lot # S201 1968 Chevrolet Corvette Nickey Coupe; S/N 194378S412954; Engine # 18S412954; Blue/Blue; 2- condition; Not sold at Hammer bid of $65,000 – 4.11 Posi-traction axle, dealer-installed headers and side pipes, redline tires, Torq Thrust wheels with Nickey center caps, AM/FM radio. NCRS verified and documented in the Nickey registry. – A very interesting car, upgraded and sold by Nickey Chevrolet. Overall condition is excellent. Paint is very clean with minor flaws, brightwork is shiny with slight pitting in spots. The interior is in excellent shape aside from the dirty seatbelts. – Nickey’s shop isn’t as famous as Yenko’s nationwide, but equally important. Like Yenko, Nickey’s name is more instantly connected to Camaros rather than Corvettes. For those reasons, this car could be a tough sell. Probably worth more than what was offered
Lot # S201.1 1958 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible; S/N J58S106468; Engine # F102C F0428CU 030; Silver, White coves, Silver hardtop/Red leather; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $111,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $119,880 – 283/270hp, 4-speed, two tops, spinner wheel covers, whitewalls, WonderBar radio. – Represented as numbers matching but the block is double-stamped. Restored like new and very nice. Excellent paint, chrome, interior and engine compartment. Shows little use, appropriate to the 83 miles on the odometer. – Offered earlier this year at the Spring Branson auction with a reported bid of $105,000 and sold here for a little more, a price that is more than enough for a double-stamped block dual quad ’58 Corvette even with this quality restoration.
Lot # S207.1 1956 Lincoln Premiere Convertible; S/N 56LA10263L; Yellow/Yellow, Black leather; Black cloth top; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $70,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $75,600 – 368/285hp, automatic, P/S, P/B, wide whitewall tires, AM radio. – Well presented. Paint is bright and clean but brightwork shows a rechrome over already pitted metal. Engine and chassis are restored like new, although an electric fuel pump could be seen mounted to the frame rail and poorly concealed wiring in the engine compartment. Interior has only minor use. – Sold by RM at Boca Raton in 2006 for $79,180, at Amelia in 2008 for $79,750, at Auburn Fall in 2013 for $61,600 and most recently at Ft. Lauderdale in March for $58,300. The result here is not a home run for the seller, but a solid double. It represents an aberration in bidders’ assessment of value and shouldn’t give hope to other Lincoln Premiere owners that the market has turned.
Lot # S221 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird 2-Dr. Hardtop; S/N RM23U0A178629; Lemon Twist Yellow, Black vinyl roof/Black vinyl; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $145,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $156,600 – 440/375hp Magnum, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, Goodyear Eagle GT II tires, Rallye wheels, pistol grip shifter, AM radio. – An eye catching, rotisserie-restored car. Paint is finished smoothly, but has some road damage to front. Brightwork is slightly spotted and dull. Vinyl roof is wrinkled near base of rear right pillar. Engine and underbody are like new. Interior is tidy. – A spot-on price. Lemon Twist with a 4-speed is a desirable combo, and sets this Superbird apart from the deluge of 440 ‘Birds that have hit the market of late. The seller may not be so happy, since it sold for $196,100 here two years ago, a $50,000 market adjustment that may tell us something.
Lot # S227 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500KR Convertible; S/N 8T03R210220-03604; Highland Green/Saddle vinyl; White vinyl top; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $137,000 plus commission of 8.00%; Final Price $147,960 – 428/360hp, 4-speed, P/S, P/B, tilt steering column, 10-spoke Shelby wheels, blackwall white letter tires, pushbutton radio, console gauges, fog lights. – Very good paint, chrome, interior, top and glass. Restored like new a few years ago and driven sparingly and carefully since then. Documented with original Shelby dealer invoice and Marti Report. – GT500KRs are holding their value well, as this very good convertible, sold earlier this year at Russo and Steele Scottsdale for 1$37,500, shows. This is realistic money for the Shelby mystique, the car’s performance, its rarity with the 4-speed and the quality of the restoration. A good car, bought for a good price.
[Source: Rick Carey]
Mr. Carey,
Take your time self-editing. I would rather see a full assessment than something hurried. Your reports are fantastic and worth the wait.
I am with Peter. We can all read the ‘Prices Achieved’ sheet if we want the results immediately. Your commentary is worth the wait.
Please take what ever time needed to create your fantastic reports. Thank you.
Happy to wait for the detailed comments etc. That is what makes it such a fun read!!!
what a fantastic smorgasbord of cars, the stand outs for me were the `57 & `61 vette`s + the `83 308 & 2003 456M Ferrari`s – also the `70 plymouth road runner, great show, great cars, would love to go see one day, thanks guys
You’re the best, Rick. I would never pretend to advise you about auction reports.
Keep doing what you’re doing. It’s a highlight of my vicarious life.
Don’t change anything, Rick. Take your time. Your reports are well worth the wait.
Anyone can do a hurried, brief and bullsh#t article – I used to do them for years with a daily paper, but in-depth stuff is much more valuable and enjoyable.
If you want, do a scan of the catalogue and put it up as a pdf, then settle down to draw on your experiences over the time your were there. More enjoyable for you and us, hopefully.
But whatever, many thanks for your excellent writing.
Please continue to take your time, your vehicle eludcidations are worth the wait.
Rick , for you to asses all or even a portion of the cars at these massive events serves no purpose, not to mention it being impossible. That is what the published results are for. The beauty of your commentary and selected results with comments is we get a feel for the room and it’s contents.
Keep doing that evil thing you do!
Not sure how you do it. I can linger forever over one of these cars trying to balance the many factors.
Holy Shit, guys.
I had no idea, but it’s very gratifying.
Thanks,
Rick
I have been trying to find the gentleman that bought the 1953 red and black mercury convertible at the 2014 auction (springauction).i have the man’s name that SOLD the car, dave penney.i have chased the car for 3 years and continually just miss it. Please help me find the man that bought it. In 1961,my husband owned a car just like it and i would like to buy it. Please help me. ,Thankyou, judy judware phone#716-310-3550,e-mail judyjudware@yahoo.com