Yesterday, Dave posted about the Shaguar, a historically significant E-Type that is going to the block in a couple of weeks. Being the auction aficionado I am, I couldn’t help but investing a handful of hours looking at every single lot of the 4,500 cars (yes, you read that right) being auctioned during that event.
Timing couldn’t be better, because I printed this list and sent it to Santa, so I should be expecting his visit anytime now. Do yourself a favour and spend some time checking the auction catalogues and, if you want to learn a little bit more about some personal highlights, read along!
1967 Volkswagen 550 Spyder Replica
James Dean needs no introduction, and neither does his relationship with cars. His legacy lives on in the form of the 550 Spyder, affectionately nicknamed “Little Bastard,” a car synonymous with rebellion, allure, and one of the most compelling 4 wheel stories to date. This lot is a high-quality replica of the original Porsche 550 Spyder Dean drove before his untimely death. The build captures the essence of the original, down to its lightweight design and minimalist aesthetics. Powered by an air-cooled flat-four engine (that I know way too well) and paired with a manual gearbox, this replica delivers an authentic driving experience reminiscent of the mid-century racing era.
The 550 Spyder was renowned for its agility and speed, qualities that made it a legend on and off the track. While it may not have the original’s provenance, this replica offers a chance to experience a piece of Hollywood and motorsport history at a fraction of the cost, if the estimate is anything to go by.
1969 Porsche 917K
Next up is a true crown jewel: the 1969 Porsche 917K. If cars could talk, this one would have stories to rival any blockbuster. Famously driven by Steve McQueen in the 1971 film Le Mans, this Gulf-liveried masterpiece is more than just a car — it’s a cultural icon. There is just not another way to put it.
Chassis number 917-022 boasts an illustrious history, including restoration overseen by Jerry Seinfeld to return it to its 1971 specifications. With a roaring flat-12 engine and an aerodynamic design that rewrote the rules of endurance racing, the 917K cemented Porsche’s dominance on the track. Expected to command bids upward of 20 million USD according to a podcast I heard this week, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance for collectors to own a slice of cinematic and racing history.
Even the camera mounting points used back when this rolling piece of art was “a prop” are left untouched, and I can only imagine where will the current owner, none other than comedian Jerry Seinfeld, repurpose the funds coming from this sale.
1979 Chevrolet Opala Comodoro
Okay, back to reality. Last but certainly not least, the 1979 Chevrolet Opala Comodoro is a vehicle that offers something distinctly different – at least for most reading this article. Produced very close to where I was born by General Motors do Brasil, the Opala combined the ruggedness of American muscle with European refinement. The Comodoro trim level brought luxury touches, while the 250 CI inline-6 engine ensured a robust performance. It was the most desired “domestic” car back in its day.
This particular model, showing just over 54,000 miles, is a rare sight at North American auctions. With its unique place in automotive history, the Opala serves as a reminder of the global reach of car culture. For collectors looking to stand out, it’s a fascinating and stylish addition. With Brazilian licence plates, no less!
Dear Santa…
All pictures are courtesy of https://www.mecum.com
