One to Buy: 1 of 1 single owner 1989 Porsche 928 S4 GT Flachbau

Introduced two-and-a-half years after the S4 upon which it was based, Porsche’s 928 GT was the sportiest iteration of its V8-powered Grand Tourer yet seen.

In addition to a more powerful engine riddled with high performance parts, the manual transmission-only 928 GT featured shorter gear ratios, a limited-slip differential, stiffer suspension, sports seats, less weight and a set of forged alloy wheels.

Customers could enhance their 928 GT with all manner of optional extras, but while most elected for mainstream upgrades like improved audio systems, an electric sunroof, mobile telephone preparation, heated seats and air-conditioning, a handful of wealthy buyers sent their cars to Porsche’s Exclusive department for extra personalisation.

Just such an example is set to go under the hammer at the RM Sotheby’s auction in Paris on January 31st.

Uniquely, chassis ‘842374’ was commissioned with conventional as opposed to exposed pop-up headlights, flared arches, widened side skirts, custom exterior mirrors and spacers for the wheels. Other aspects of the specification included Slate Grey paint with matching upholstery, draped leather, heated seats, a Blaupunkt Berlin audio system and an electric sunroof.

Ordered direct from Porsche by the consigning vendor, chassis ‘842374’ has covered less than 70,000km from new and is presented in superb condition throughout.

Opportunities to buy a one owner 928 are few and far between. To find such a machine with a one-of-one Exclusive specification is almost unheard of.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-Yoshikuni Okamoto 1984 Audi Quattro Sport

Although Audi had produced evolutionary A1 and A2 variants of the regular Quattro which between them recorded ten WRC victories during 1983 and ‘84, the firm’s first proper Group B special based on their legendary all-wheel drive model, the Quattro Sport, didn’t emerge until mid-way through the 1984 season.

However, despite Audi winning both the 1984 Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ titles (to go with their ‘82 Manufacturers’ and ‘83 Drivers’ championships), the Quattro Sport ultimately secured just two WRC victories for the Ingolstadt marque (at the 1984 Ivory Coast event and ‘85 Rally Sanremo – the latter using a further uprated E2 variant).

The reason for this was largely Audi’s determination not start with a clean sheet for their Group B special unlike rival manufacturers Peugeot and Lancia. Instead, Audi management wanted a car derived from the normal Quattro as they reasoned a switch to an all-new machine in such a short space of time would reflect badly on the production model.

Irrespective of its limited WRC success, the Quattro Sport has since come to be regarded as among the most sought after Group B specials.

Just 214 were originally manufactured, a particularly interesting example of which is set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s sale at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix on January 25th.

One of 48 Alpine White examples built and possibly the only Quattro Sport originally delivered to Japan, chassis ‘905147’ was purchased new by Japanese industrialist and renowned collector, Yoshikuni Okamoto of Kobe.

Having today covered a little under 9000km, this unrestored Quattro Sport presents a rare opportunity to purchase a US-domiciled example of arguably Audi’s most iconic production model.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: 753km from new 1986 Porsche 911 3.2 Carrera M491 'Turbo Look'

Owing to the proliferation of high end tuning houses that had begun to offer all manner of products not available direct from Porsche, the Stuttgart firm decided to expand its range for the 1986 and 1987 model years.

In addition to the legendary Flachbau conversion which became an officially recognised option, Porsche introduced Targa and Cabriolet versions of the 911 Turbo (930). For those customers that wanted all the Turbo’s uprated equipment but without the more complex forced induction engine, the M491 option (sometimes dubbed ‘Turbo Look’ or ‘Super Sport Equipment’) was also brought in as an expensive addition.

Available on the 911 3.2 Carrera from September 1985 for the ‘86 model year, the M491 package came with the bodywork, spoilers, suspension, brakes and wheels of the turbocharged 930, but with normally aspirated 3.2-litre running gear.

Set to go under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s at their December 2nd auction in Houston is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and lowest mileage M491-optioned 911 Carreras in existence.

A home market derivative originally supplied via Paul Greier Porsche of Neumünster, chassis ‘103518’ was ordered in Grand Prix White with fabulous Can Can Red upholstery. Purchased new by Hansjüergen Apel on July 23rd 1986, chassis ‘103518’ was one of just 251 M491-optioned cars constructed during the 1986 model year and has gone on to live an unusually cosseted existence.

Showing just 753km from new, it was acquired by the consigning White Collection in 2015, since which time it has been started and run to operating temperature monthly. Chassis ‘103518’ surely represents an almost unrepeatable opportunity to acquire a European-specification M491-optioned 911 Carrera Coupe with little more than delivery mileage from new.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: 1 of 1 ex-works 1962 Ferrari 330 LM - the ultimate GTO

Set to go under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s at a special event in New York on November 13th is one of the most exciting and valuable motor cars ever to come to market: the ex-works 1962 Ferrari 330 LM chassis 3765 LM.

Ferrari created the unique 1962-specification 330 LM to contest that year’s Le Mans 24 Hours where the Automobile Club de l’Ouest had organised a special Experimental class for vehicles with engines of up to four-litres.

By contrast, purpose-built Prototypes competing for the 1962 World Sportscar Championship’s Coupes des Sport (a sub-category to the main championship which was decided by GT cars) had to run engines with a displacement no greater than three-litres.

Ferrari, Maserati and Aston Martin all prepared works cars for the four-litre class at Le Mans, most of which were specially adapted from existing models.

In Ferrari’s case, they chose to prepare two cars: the modified 330 TRI/LM and a brand new long wheelbase version of the 250 GTO dubbed the 330 LM which was able to accommodate a highly tuned competition version of the four-litre engine found in the 400 Superamerica.

The completed machine, chassis, 3765 LM, had a preparatory outing at the 1962 Nurburgring 1000km where a four-litre class was organised to give the new cars some track time ahead of Le Mans. Here, the 330 LM driven by Mike Parkes and Willy Mairesse qualified and finished second and also won its class.

Despite having gone second fastest in practice at Le Mans (where 3765 LM was allocated to Mike Parkes and Lorenzo Bandini), grid positions were decided on engine size and the 330 LM started sixth.

Unfortunately, damage to the radiator caused by an opening lap trip into the Tertre Rouge sand bank ultimately caused 3765 LM to retire just after quarter distance.

Ferrari subsequently went on to produce a batch of re-bodied cars for 1963 dubbed 330 LMB. Meanwhile chassis 3765 LM was fitted with a three-litre GTO engine, a five-speed gearbox (to replace the original four-speed unit) and sold off.

Today the car is offered in superb restored condition complete with a substantial spares package and a mass of period documentation that outlines its fascinating history.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: Lachs Silver 1985 BMW E28 M5

Although various four-door super saloons had come and gone during the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, they had mostly been heavy, dynamically compromised machines better suited to motorways and autoroutes than twisting country roads and mountain passes.

That changed when, from late 1979, BMW began to offer their mid-range 5-series in a package with supercar-rivalling performance: the E12-based M535i. BMW Motorsport had quietly been building uprated 5-series since 1974, but the M535i marked a turning point in that it was openly offered at every European BMW main dealer.

For the 1982 model year, the ageing E12 5-series was replaced by the new E28 variant and, in late 1984, BMW Motorsport began production of the highly anticipated new M5. With its 282bhp straight six, tuned chassis and discrete appearance, the M5 was like nothing else available direct from a mainstream European manufacturer.

Set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s Munich auction on November 25th is a highly original early E28 M5.

Completed on July 3rd 1985 and supplied to its first owner by BMW Niederlassung Hamburg on September 10th, it was configured in the highly desirable shade of Lachs Silver Metallic and with the expensive full leather upholstery option plus electric front windows, an electric sunroof, central locking and an electric antenna.

Today, this handsome machine has covered a whisker under 146,000km (backed by its original book pack) and rides on a set of lovely 16-inch Alpina wheels. It is expected to realise somewhere between €70,000 and €100,000.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-Nigel Mansell 1988 Ferrari Testarossa

Of the myriad British drivers to have appeared in Formula 1 and Grand Prix racing over the best part of 100 years, perhaps none have received the level of rapturous home support as Nigel Mansell.

Whether it was at Silverstone or Brands Hatch, Mansell’s performances electrified the huge crowds that came to support him in a riotous fashion unseen before or since.

With a talent considered by many experts to have been on a par with contemporary rival Ayrton Senna, Mansell should have been a three-time World Champion. However, bad luck in 1986 and ‘87 cost him while driving for the Williams Honda team and, following a disappointing campaign in 1988 when Williams had to run underpowered Judd engines, Mansell departed for Scuderia Ferrari and became the last driver Enzo Ferrari personally signed.

Just like in Britain, the Italian fans adored Mansell who they dubbed ‘il Leone’ on account of his heroic driving style. Despite some appalling reliability and the dominance of McLaren, Mansell won three races for Ferrari during the 1989 and ‘90 season and when his car made the finish, the Brit was nearly always on the podium.

When Mansell signed for Ferrari in late 1988, a perk was the gift of a brand new Testarossa which is set to go under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s at their sale in London on November 4th.

A right-hand drive example supplied new to Gestions Sportives Automobiles of Geneva on December 23rd 1988 and subsequently imported to the UK by Maranello Concessionaires, chassis 79325 remained in Nigel Mansell’s possession until December 1993.

Today the car, which features a commemorative plaque on its door jam, has covered a little under 15,000 miles. It is offered in superb condition along with an original six-piece set of fitted Schedoni lugagge monogrammed with Nigel Mansell’s initials.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: Number 8 of 40 2022 Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro

Spawned from Aston Martin’s collaboration with Red Bull Racing between 2016 and 2020, the limited production Valkyrie is arguably the closest road-going interpretation of a front-running Sports Prototype produced during the modern era.

Based around a carbonfibre tub with aerodynamically-profiled double wishbone torsion bar suspension, the Valkyrie also comes with the highest revving, most powerful normally aspirated engine ever fitted to a road car: a 6.5-litre KERS V12 that pumps out 1160bhp at 10,500rpm.

The rest of the specification was riddled with advanced F1 tech that seemingly took the Valkyrie concept to its absolute limit. However, at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show Aston Martin unveiled an even more extreme track-only variant: the AMR Pro.

Based on a long wheelbase wide track chassis, the AMR Pro also featured a radical aero kit, greater use of super lightweight composite materials, uprated brakes, a more powerful engine unencumbered by the heavy KERS, no air-con or infotainment and custom wheels / tyres.

Weighing an astonishing 150kg less than a standad Valkyrie, the AMR Pro is a faster track weapon than even the latest generation of Le Mans Hypercars.

Only 40 AMR Pro versions of the Valkyrie were produced, one of which is currently being represented by the Private Sales department of RM Sotheby’s.

Located in Dubai, chassis 08’s one and only outing was its factory shakedown at the Bahrain International Cicrcuit where it lapped two seconds quicker than the Toyota GR010 that won the 8 Hour World Endurance Championship race at the circuit that year.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: 1 owner 13,000km 1995 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta

Although the Ferrari 348 ranked among the best looking vehicles of its generation, razor sharp on-limit handling meant the car’s ultimate performance was difficult to unlock for mere mortals.

After a little less than five years in production, Ferrari replaced the 348 with a heavily revised new model: the F355.

With all the 348’s foibles addressed, the critically acclaimed F355 re-established Ferrari at the top of the junior supercar market, a position it held throughout the new machine’s 1994 to ‘99 lifespan.

Initially available in fixed head Berlinetta and targa-topped GTS trim, a drop head Spider joined the fray in 1995, Meanwhile, customers could personalise their new machine with a far greater array of optional extras than seen on previous models.

Set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s St. Moritz sale on September 16th is one of the most desirably configured F355s around: chassis 101231.

Specified in the stunning colour combination of Argento with Nero upholstery, chassis 101231 was ordered at Ferrari Switzerland by its one and only custodian on May 3rd 1995. Since then, it has accumulated a little over 13,000km and remains in superb original condition throughout.

As a desirable manual transmission Berlinetta variant of arguably Ferrari’s most highly regarded V8 model, this superbly equipped F355 would make an ideal addition to practically any collection of Maranello’s finest.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-Niki Lauda 1984 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 'Nurburgring'

As a consequence of a burgeoning domestic touring car scene, Mercedes’ hot 190 E Group A special went on to have a stellar late-life competition career that culminated in both the DTM’s Manufacturers’ and Teams’ championships for 1991 followed by the Manufacturers’ and Driver’s titles for 1992 (when the Teams’ contest was dropped).

These high profile victories came with the last-of-the-line 190 E 2.5 Evolution 2 unveiled at Geneva in March 1990. However, arguably the most famous individual race for the Group A 190 E took place at the Nurburgring in May 1984 ahead of that weekend’s German F1 Grand Prix.

21 cars were specially prepared for the one-make contest and Mercedes convinced 20 top drivers to attend. They included former F1 champions Niki Lauda, Keke Rosberg, Alan Jones, James Hunt, Jody Scheckter, Phil Hill, Jack Brabham, John Surtees and Denny Hulme. Stirling Moss was also on hand along with Carlos Reutemann, John Watson, Klaus Ludwig, Manfred Schurti, Jacques Laffite, Udo Schutz, Hans Herrmann, Elio de Angelis, Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna.

Set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s St. Moritz auction on September 16th is the car driven by Niki Lauda who rose from a lowly starting position of 14th to ultimately finish just 1.38 seconds behind eventual winner, Ayrton Senna.

Afterwards, Senna’s car was retained by Mercedes and Lauda’s was sold off in race trim. As for the remaining 19 cars, they were reconfigured in road trim and sold to meet the tremendous demand for the new model.

Today, this ex-Lauda 190 E 2.3-16 is offered in excellent condition throughout having undergone a comprehensive refurbishment by Mercedes-Benz back in 2017.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: Sterling Silver 61,000 mile 1993 BMW E36 M3 3.0 Coupe

In a similar fashion to its E30 predecessor, BMW’s E36 3-series became the benchmark against which all entry-level Saloons, Coupes and Convertibles were measured. Its combination of handsome looks, superb driving dynamics and excellent build quality resulted in BMW’s absolute domination of the sector around the globe.

At the head of the E36 line-up was BMW’s latest iteration of the now iconic M3, a variant originally launched back in 1985 to homologate a Group A competition car for international touring car races.

Whereas the E30 M3 was powered by a raucous four cylinder motor designed for competition use, the E36-based machine was comparatively refined on account of its more spacious bodyshell and silky smooth straight six engine. Unsurprisingly, it proved a massive commercial hit and in many respects paved the way for every BMW Motorsport product since.

In total, over 70,000 examples of the E36 M3 were completed between 1992 and 1999, among the finest examples of which is chassis ‘33449’ set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s St. Moritz sale on September 16th.

Configured in the desirable colour combination of Sterling Silver over an Anthracite M cloth and Amaretta interior, chassis ‘33449’ was completed on June 28th 1993 and supplied to the German domestic market.

Today this desirable car has covered a little over 61,000km which is backed by a detailed service history from new. Presented in superb condition throughout, this collector grade example of arguably the 1990’s best compact supercar will be sold at No Reserve.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

Review: Monterey 2023 Top 65 Public Auction Sale Prices

$30.255m Bonhams 1967 Ferrari 412 P chassis 0854

$13.205m RM Sotheby’s 1957 Jaguar XKSS chassis XKSS 707

$9.465m Gooding & Company 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta chassis 3507 GT

$6.605m RM Sotheby’s 1959 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Series 3 chassis 1305 SA

$5.395m RM Sotheby’s 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Tourer chassis 57512

$5.395m RM Sotheby’s 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 chassis 10621

$4.79m Gooding & Company 1914 Mercer Type 35-J Raceabout chassis 1967

$4.515m Gooding & Company 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Cabriolet chassis 2311214

$4.075m RM Sotheby’s 2003 Ferrari Enzo chassis ZFFCW56A730135264

$3.9m Bonhams 1951 Ferrari 212 Export chassis 0100 E

$3.8m RM Sotheby’s 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 chassis 09831

$3.58m Gooding & Company 1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV chassis 5066

$3.415m Gooding & Company 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB Series 2 chassis 08545

$3.305m RM Sotheby’s 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB Series 1 6C Alloy chassis 07809

$3.305m RM Sotheby’s Ferrari F40 chassis 84116

$3.305m RM Sotheby’s 1933 Packard Twelve Individual Custom Convertible Victoria chassis 901360

$3.2775m Gooding & Company 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 chassis 09909

$3.1675m Gooding & Company 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Series 1 Coupe Aerodinamico chassis 3221 SA

$3.085m Gooding & Company 1952 Ferrari 340 America chassis 0202 A

$3.085m Gooding & Company 1991 Ferrari F40 chassis 87568

$3.03m RM Sotheby’s 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Sweep Panel Dual-Cowl Phaeton chassis 2552

$2.975m Gooding & Company 1930 Duesenberg ModelJ Dual Cowl ‘Barrelside’ Phaeton chassis 2323

$2.975m RM Sotheby’s 1967 Ferrari 330 GTS chassis 10359

$2.9m RM Sotheby’s 1953 Fiat 8V Berlinetta chassis 106.000026

$2.865m RM Sotheby’s 1972 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 chassis 15417

$2.81m RM Sotheby’s 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Series 1 chassis 0497 SA

$2.48m Gooding & Company 2007 Maserati MC12 Versione Corsa chassis 29629

$2.315m RM Sotheby’s 2020 McLaren Speedtail chassis 072

$2.26m RM Sotheby’s 1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic chassis 106.000043

$2.26m Gooding & Company 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 chassis 3378

$2.205m Gooding & Company 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Convertible chassis DB5C/1903/L

$2.04m Gooding & Comapny 1936 Hispano-Suiza J12 Cabriolet chassis 14018

$2.04m Bonhams 1966 Porsche 906 chassis 906-120

$2.04m Bonhams 1949 Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport Cabriolet chassis 116

$2.0125m RM Sotheby’s 2015 McLaren P1 chassis 170

$1.985m Gooding & Company 1953 Ferrari 212 Europa Coupe chassis 0287 EU

$1.875m RM Sotheby’s 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Series 1 chassis 0406 MD

$1.765m Gooding & Company 1913 Lozier Type 72 Meadowbrook Runabout chassis 4240

$1.7375m RM Sotheby’s 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing chassis 198.040.5500289

$1.71m RM Sotheby’s 1931 Duesenbery Model J Tourster chassis 2440

$1.71m RM Sotheby’s 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort chassis WP0ZZZ95ZJS900247

$1.655m RM Sotheby’s 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe Speciale chassis 0469 GT

$1.655m RM Sotheby’s 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Normal Roadster chassis 123692

$1.6m RM Sotheby’s 1929 Bentley 4.5-litre Short Chassis Sports Tourer chassis NX3463

$1.6m RM Sotheby’s 2019 Porsche 935 chassis 50/77

$1.5725m RM Sotheby’s 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing chassis 198.040.6500214

$1.545m Gooding & Company 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 chassis 795023

$1.5175m RM Sotheby’s 1933 Stutz DV-32 Convertible Victoria chassis DV-PC-1558

$1.501m RM Sotheby’s 1997 Porsche 911 Remastered by Gunther Werks chassis WP0AA2990VS320607

$1.49m Gooding & Company 1913 American Underslung Type 56-A Traveler chassis 3817

$1.49m RM Sotheby’s 1978 Ferrari 512 BB Competizione chassis 24131

$1.49m RM Sotheby’s 2005 Porsche Carrera GT chassis WP0CA29825L001185

$1.4625m RM Sotheby’s 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster chassis 198.042.10.002831

$1.462m Gooding & Company 1930 Bentley Speed Six Saloon chassis LR2778

$1.4075m RM Sotheby’s 1991 Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer - Classic Study chassis WP0AB2967MS410452

$1.38m RM Sotheby’s 1962 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series 2 chassis 3499

$1.38m RM Sotheby’s 2021 Ford GT Heritage Edition chassis 61

$1.325m Gooding & Company 1932 Bugatti Type 49 Roadster chassis 49534

$1.3m Gooding & Company 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series 2 chassis 1817 GT

$1.27m Bonhams 1909 Lorraine-Dietrich 16.4-litre Grand Prix chassis 60189

$1.27m RM Sotheby’s 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster chassis 198.042.10.002551

$1.215m Gooding & Company 2011 Ferrari 599 SA Aperta chassis 180054

$1.193m Bonhams 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe chassis 0855 GT

$1.1875m RM Sotheby’s 1936 Lancia Astura Series 3 Cabriolet chassis 33-5313

$1.1875m Bonhams 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster chassis 198.042.109500036

One to Buy: ex-Pete Woods Torrey Pines 6 Hours-winning 1952 Jaguar C-type

Following a series of impressive results with the XK120 during 1949 and ‘50, Jaguar elected to produce a more extreme iteration conceived purely for competition success.

The resultant XK120-C (better known as the C-type) was Jaguar’s first purpose-built racing car. It used uprated running gear from the standard XK120 and a new lightweight chassis draped with a pared down aluminium body designed to efficiently cut through the air.

Following a debut victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1951 (for Peter Walker and Peter Whitehead), C-types driven by Stirling Moss went on to win all three of the car’s other outings that season.

Myriad top flight victories followed over the next few seasons, the most famous of which was a second win at the Le Mans 24 Hours for Tony Rolt and Duncan Hamilton in 1953.

Jaguar built 53 examples of the C-type between 1951 and ‘53, the majority of which were sold to privateers who went on to successfully campaign their cars in all manner of motor sport disciplines.

One of these 53, chassis XKC 024, will be going under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction on August 18th.

Dispatched to the USA on November 24th 1952, chassis 024 was delivered to its first owner, Alex Thompson of Denver, via Jaguar dealer Charles Hornburg of Los Angeles. Both Thompson and Phil Hill successfully raced the car, but after a few months it was sold to Jaguar dealer James Harrison of Colorado Springs.

Unfortunately, during a meet at March Air Force Base during November 1953, Harrison crashed 024 which necessitated installation of a new chassis, central body section and hood. Following completion, 024 passed to Bob Downey and Pete Woods, the latter of whom went on to single-handedly win the 1955 Torrey Pines 6 Hours.

Today chassis 024 is offered in superb condition throughout following a restoration by marque experts during the late 1980s.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-George Drummond / Paul Vestey 1964 Ferrari 250 LM

Ferrari created the 250 LM as its GT class contender for the 1964 World Sportscar Championship. However, the FIA rejected Ferrari’s application on the grounds that 100 such mid-engined production cars had not been constructed.

As a consequence, the Series 2 250 GTO was quickly drafted in to take on the Shelby Cobra Daytonas.

Meanwhile, until 1966 (when it was granted Group 4 status), the 250 LM routinely had to run in the Prototype category. With no three-litre engine limit to adhere to, Ferrari fitted the 32-strong production run with 3.3-litre ‘275’ motors instead of the planned-for ‘250’ unit.

When Ferrari’s P-cars retired at Le Mans in 1965, it was a 250 LM that famously stepped up to take the chequered flag in what became Ferrari’s last outright win of the century at la Sarthe.

RM Sotheby’s will be putting an extremely fine 250 LM under the hammer at their Monterey auction on August 19th.

Chassis 6053 was delivered via Maranello Concessionaires in October 1964 to noted British collector, George Drummond. Drummond raced 6053 at club level throughout 1965 and collected four outright victories. He continued to race the car internationally until 1968 when Paul Vestey acquired it to contest that year’s Le Mans 24 Hours (where it posted a DNF).

Today, chassis 6053 is offered in superb condition throughout having been subject to a Ferrari Classiche restoration completed in 2021.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-King Mohammed V of Morocco 1 of 4 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe Series 1

Having seen increased levels of standardisation since handing Pinin Farina the contract for its off-the-shelf production models, Ferrari looked to up the ante with the three-litre 250 GT line that first started to emerge in 1956.

The 250 GT would ultimately be built in Coupe, Cabriolet, Berlinetta and Spyder trim. A four-seater was also offered which similarly went on to become a commercial hit (the 250 GTE).

For capacity reasons, production of the new 250 GT Coupe was carried out at Carrozzeria Boano where slightly modified versions of the original Pinin Farina shell were fitted to Ferrari’s rolling chassis. However, the transfer to Boano did not take place until a small number of cars had emerged over at Pinin Farina.

One of those extremey early Pinin Farina-built 250 GT Coupes will be going under the hamemr at RM Sotheby’s Monterey action on August 17th.

Reputedly the last of four to where this specific type of Superamerica-inspired body, chassis 0469 GT was originally configured in Celeste with a Nero roof and Naturale Connolly leather. Following completion in August 1956, chassis 0469 GT was delivered to its first owner, Mohammed al-Khamis bin Yusef bin Hassan al-Alawi, better known as King Mohammed V of Morocco.

Following 49 years of storage, this unrestored Ferrari 250 GT represents a rare opportunity for the discerning collector.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: 1 of 14 special order 1995 Porsche 911 3.6 Turbo Cabriolet (993)

One of the most infrequently seen Porsches - even among the rarefied world of 90’s Porsche Exclusive creations - is the 993-based Turbo Cabriolet of which a mere 14 were completed after a special order from the boss of Porsche’s most successful dealer in Germany: Fritz Haberl of Munich-based MAHAG.

Soon after the 993 Cabriolet was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1994, Haberl met with Porsche executives to discuss the possibility of a limited edition turbocharged version. At this stage the proper twin turbo 993 was still on the drawing board.

The quoted price for each unit was DM264,000 compared to DM112,000 for a standard 993 Cabriolet and Haberl had to order at least ten cars. Of the 14 eventually completed, five were right-hand drive.

Each car started life as standard 993 Cabriolet bodyshell which was fitted with the single turbo Type M64/50 engine plus the brakes and 17-inch Cup wheels from the outgoing 964 3.6 Turbo. A distinctive body coloured rear spoiler came from the latest 964 Turbo S.

One of these 993 Turbo Cabriolets is set to go under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s at their Monterey auction on August 18th. Chassis 338503 was originally delivered to its first Essen-based owner in December 1994 having been configured in the handsome colour scheme of Midnight Blue paint with matching upholstery.

Now showing a little over 96,000km, this extremely rare iteration of the forced induction 993 is expected to realise between $1m and $1.5m.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-Robert Fusina 1960 Turin Motor Show Ferrari 250 GT SWB Spyder California

Ferrari introduced their new short wheelbase version of the fabled 250 GT Spyder California at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1960. It was offered alongside the other competition-derived model to use the cut-down chassis (the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta) and represented Ferrari’s most sporting open-top proposition as the 250 GT Cabriolet and 400 Superamerica Convertible were quite luxurious in comparison.

Just 56 examples of the 250 GT SWB Spyder California were completed between 1960 and ‘63. It was not replaced and thus has come to be regarded as the ultimate expression of Ferrari’s weekend roadster in open form.

Each short wheelbase Spyder California was based around Ferrari’s stiff new Tipo 539 chassis. Suspension was independent up front with a live rear axle. Disc brakes and Koni dampers were fitted all round. In the engine bay was a Tipo 128 three-litre V12 (240bhp to 285bhp) hooked up to a four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox.

Of the 56 short wheelbase Spyder Californias built, 18 were completed with uncovered headlights, a particularly interesting example of which will be going under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s in Monterey on August 19th.

Completed in August 1960, chassis 1883 GT was configured in Blue Medio over Rosso with a Tipo 128 F motor (one of two), steel body and the rarely seen hardtop. It was also one of just three cars with side vent delete.

Having been displayed at the Turin Motor Show in November 1960, the handsome Spyder subsequently went on to contest the 1962 Targa Florio where, in the hands of Umberto de Bonis and Robert Fusina it finished 19th overall and third in class.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: ex-works 1956 Le Mans 24 Hour class winning Porsche 550A Coupe

Following its victorious debut at the Nurburgring Eifelrennen in May 1953, the Porsche 550 established itself as the car to beat in the under 1500cc class of international Sports car racing.

Nowhere was this more amply demonstrated than at arguably the toughest event on the calendar: the Le Mans 24 Hours. In just its second competitive outing, the 550 won its class at Le Mans, a feat repeated in 1954 and ‘55. Incredibly, that 1955 outing had seen a trio of 550s place fourth, fifth and sixth overall.

For 1956, Porsche introduced the 550A which most notably featured an even lighter, stiffer chassis. A pair of streamliner 550 A Coupes were entered for that year’s race at la Sarthe, one of which (the example driven by Wolfgang von Trips and Richard von Frankenburg) crossed the line fifth overall to claim yet another win for Porsche in the 1.5-litre Sports category.

That very car driven by von Trips and von Frankenburg, chassis 0104, will be going under the hammer with RM Sotheby’s at their Monterey sale on August 19th.

The sole surviving example of the 1956 Le Mans 550A streamliners, 0104 was converted to lightweight Spyder trim after the race in which configuration von Frankenburg reputedly drove the car to fourth in the Nurburgring Rheinland contest that took place a week later.

0104 subsequently continued its racing career with John Edgar in the USA and in more recent years joined the fabled collection of Julio Palmez. Since then it has been restored back to its 1953 Le Mans trim and is presented in superb condition throughout.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/

One to Buy: 1 of 1 in Black ex-Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani 1985 Peugeot 205 T16

Peugeot’s Group B rally programme of 1984 to 1986 along with the firm’s class-leading 205 GTi hot hatch transformed the firm from maker of rather stuffy unexciting machinery to market leader.

While Audi had the four-wheel drive production-based Quattro at its disposal and Lancia the rear-drive 037 Group B special, Peugeot combined the best of both in the all-conquering 205 T16 Evolution which became the most successful car of rallying’s most famous era.

Having debuted mid-way through the 1984 season, the T16 delivered back-to-back Manufacturer titles in the 1985 and ‘86 World Rally Championship while Timo Salonen and Juha Kankunen were respectively crowned ‘85 and ‘86 Driver’s champions.

Just 200 road cars were required to qualify for Group B which led to some extraordinary machines taking to the special stages. Peugeot’s offering was the base 205 T16, a believed unique example of which will be going under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction on August 18th.

Peugeot only officially offered the T16 in one colour, Graphite Grey, however, chassis 100177 was destined for VIP customer Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani who was able to take delivery of this stunning Black example.

Al-Thani retained chassis 100177 until 2007, by which time it had accumulated a little over 8000km. Today the car is offered fresh from a recent major service with the odometer still showing under 8700km.

For more information visit the RM Sotheby’s website at: https://rmsothebys.com/