SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Jan. 4, 2010 – The 1930′s Ford Model A (Lot #1309) used by the notorious gangster John Dillinger and later in the blockbuster 2009 movie about his life, will be sold at No Reserve during the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale on Jan. 18-24, 2010 at WestWorld. The Ford, which carried “Public Enemy” number one to safety in 1934 while Dillinger sprayed pursing cops with his Tommy gun, will cross the block as the world watches on SPEED.
· 1930 Ford Model A that John Dillinger used in an escape to be sold at Barrett-Jackson at No Reserve
· The car also starred in the recent blockbuster “Public Enemies” with Johnny Depp
· The Model A (Lot #1309) includes meticulous documentation from the current owner
“While Bonnie and Clyde, Machine Gun Kelly, Pretty Boy Floyd and Baby Face Nelson were media celebrities, none were more famous than John Dillinger,” said Barrett-Jackson Chairman/CEO Craig Jackson. ”His daring robberies and hold ups fed the nation’s hunger for sensationalist news. His ability to elude capture and escape by using fast, reliable cars with seeming impunity made him a folk hero.”
Dillinger and his gang raged throughout Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin during the Great Depression. One of Dillinger’s most memorable escapes took place at the Little Bohemia Lodge in Manitowish Waters, Wis. on April 22, 1934. Dillinger, Homer Van Meter and John “Red” Hamilton, his two top lieutenants, escaped in the 1930 Ford Model A coupe offered at Barrett-Jackson.
“This car is a piece of American gangster history and as much a part of Dillinger’s legend as his Tommy guns and Colt automatics,” stated Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. ”Not only did this particular car get the famous gangster out of a fix with the cops in hot pursuit, it was used in the recent Johnny Depp movie about Dillinger. So it’s played an important role in history and cinema emulating history.”
After a series of robberies, Dillinger and his gang hid out at the Little Bohemia Lodge in Manitowish Waters. The proprietors, Emil and Nan Wanatka, recognized them and managed to tip off the authorities to the gang’s location.
Upon arrival, the Feds perforated the Lodge with bullets until Dillinger, Van Meter and Hamilton bailed out of doors and windows, rushing through the woods until they found the Model T nearby. The gangsters politely but firmly commandeered the Ford and its owner, Robert Johnson, to drive it.
Johnson was let out near Park Falls, Wis. The trio of crooks eluded law enforcement and drove to Hastings, Minn., over 200 miles away from the Lodge. There, they were once again identified and fled in a high speed pursuit. Hamilton was fatally shot in the hail of gunfire. Dillinger, it is said, smashed the Ford’s rear window with his Thompson and sprayed his pursuers with bullets as he escaped.
Heading for the anonymity of Chicago, they dumped the bullet-riddled Model A in favor of a stolen 1934 Ford V8. Just three months later, Dillinger was killed as he exited the Biograph Theater in Chicago.
Bullet pocked and blood stained, the Ford was impounded by the police. Files from the Division of Investigation (now FBI) identified it as “1930 Ford coupe, 4 cylinder, Model A, Wisconsin license #92652, Motor #2980001.”
“The Model A was eventually returned to Johnson who determined that it wasn’t worth repairing and parked it for nearly three decades,” noted Davis. ”The car ended up in the barn of Alfred Love’s mother in-law, where Johnson rented a bungalow. Love bought it from Johnson and eventually passed it to his son, Mark, the current owner.”
The Ford was carefully restored in 2007 to appear in “Public Enemies”, preserving the original bullet holes and dimples under body filler and carefully documenting the original appearance including the upholstery soaked with blood. This car is comprehensively documented with its transfer paperwork, articles, books, before-restoration photographs and a selection of documents copied from the federal files.
“This Ford was at the center of one of the most famous shootouts in gangster history,” added Jackson. ”It is, more than any automobile and even firearm, identified with Dillinger. It’s been owned by only two families since it played a crucial role in the Little Bohemia Lodge escape. The Dillinger Ford Model A coupe would be an incredible addition to a collection, museum or attraction that commemorates the history of Ford, the Model A or American history.”
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces “The World’s Greatest Collector Car AuctionsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas and Orange County, Calif. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Detroit – Jan. 11, 2009 – Classic Design Concepts, a leader in the aftermarket auto performance parts industry, will auction at No Reserve a one-off Group 2 edition Dodge Challenger and matching Charvel® Guitar to benefit notMYkid at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Jan. 21, 2010. The spectacular electric guitar, which was built by the hot rod shop of guitars, and the graphic white and black current model Group 2 Challenger were concept units for a proposed limited production run. The sale will be aired live on SPEED in primetime.
“The passion for rock ‘n’ roll and custom cars runs deep in America, which led us to this creative collaboration,” said Classic Design Concepts president George Huisman. ”The goal of this high-performance package was to demonstrate our capabilities by connecting people to that deep love affair with muscle cars and music. While the concept car is making its way through tooling, someone can be the first to own these symbols of Americana while also helping a wonderful charity.”
notMYkid was founded to increase awareness of the challenges kids face, provide information and offer resources to support the success of students, families and educators. The group inspires positive life choices by educating the community about the consequences of destructive youth behaviors. Young adults who have overcome life-controlling addictions and behaviors share their personal stories with middle and high school students. In an effort to promote its message, notMYkid educates adults on the same addictions and destructive behaviors.
“The challenges kids and families face today are complex and have the potential to devastate lives and derail futures,” said Jill Woods, Senior Director – Development and Marketing at notMYkid. ”Studies indicate that people who reach 21 without engaging in destructive behaviors are likely to never do so, which is why we passionately educate about current trends, warning signs and the long-term impact of destructive behaviors. Funds raised through of the sale of the CDC Challenger will help us protect the kids in our community through a proactive approach.”
The CDC Group 2 Challenger concept (Lot #710.1) showcases the Chrysler Design Award-winning packages created by the muscle car company, which includes a wide body conversion inspired by the legendary Group 2of SCCA Trans Am racing. The 5.7-liter Hemi is equipped with a Pro Charger supercharger that bumps the horsepower to 500+, while the Pypes exhaust handles the breathing chores. The CDC Challenger is documented as being the first 5.7 RT Challenger fitted with a Pro Charger. A Baer six-piston brake package with 14″ rotors stops the mighty beast.
The package includes a fully functional Shaker hood, state-of-the-art lightweight front fenders and billboard rear-quarter flairs. USW Forged Wheels and Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tires ensure that all four corners are firmly planted. A KW Variant I Coil-Over Suspension allows adjustable ride height.
The Charvel/Classic Design Concepts Custom Shop one-off San Dimas Six-String Guitar features a fully customized graphic by world-renowned artist Mike Learn, a hand-oiled one-piece quartersawn maple neck and a compound-radius fingerboard with jumbo frets. The guitar’s signature tone comes courtesy of a select alder body, two Seymour Duncan® JBTM humbucking pickups and a Floyd Rose® tremolo system. The guitar and custom case has an MSRP of $8,000.
The Charvel Group 2 Challenger Concept car and guitar were exhibited on an American road trip throughout 2009. Events on the schedule included the 29th Annual MOPAR Nationals, Carlisle All-Chrysler Nationals, Woodward Dream Cruise and the 2008 and 2009 SEMA Shows in Las Vegas.
About Classic Design Concepts Classic Design Concepts is a premier manufacturer of automotive parts for American performance cars and trucks. The company has been an innovator in the design and manufacturing of quality systematic restyling, power enhancing and handling components for enthusiasts and OEMs for decades. CDC prides itself on providing the enthusiast with cutting edge style and unsurpassed quality. For more information about CDC, visit www.classicdesignconcepts.com or call (866) 624-7997. For media inquiries, contact Scott Black at (214) 520-3430 ext. 303 or sblack@tprm-usa.com.
About notMYkid notMYkid was founded in 2000 and is dedicated to educating kids, parents, schools and communities about issues kids face including substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and more. Information is available on the website www.notMYkid.org to educate parents about warning signs and symptoms and to empower them to implement effective prevention and intervention strategies. For more information, call 602-652-0163.
Barrett-Jackson To Be Featured On Robbie Gordon’s No. 7 Dodge In Nascar’s Sharpie 500 At Bristol
Scottsdale, Ariz. - August 22, 2008 – Robbie Gordon’s No. 7 Dodge of NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Series will have a new look tomorrow when it sports the flaming red logo of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company during the Sharpie 500. The Barrett-Jackson badge will adorn the flanks and deck lid of Gordon’s car as it races for victory under the lights at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tenn. The race will help Barrett-Jackson gear up for the inaugural Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Las Vegas Oct. 15-18, 2008.
“We’re thrilled to be part of Robbie Gordon’s team at Bristol, NASCAR’s most electric venue,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “NASCAR fans are some of the most passionate in all of sports and we’re proud to have this opportunity to reach millions of them across the country who might be interested in the collector car hobby. Tomorrow’s race will be a major milestone on our way to the inaugural Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas event in October.”
The Barrett-Jackson logo will join that of Planet Color, the custom color paint system of Sherwin Williams Automotive Finishes Corp. (SWAFC) and longtime supplier of paints and coatings to Gordon. The logos, along with Gordon’s No. 7 livery, will be featured against the Dodge Charger’s black color-scheme as it circles the short Tennessee oval in front of more than 160,000 ardent racing fans.
Barrett-Jackson’s Las Vegas auction will take place at the Mandalay Bay Events Center and feature hundreds of desirable collector vehicles and lavish lifestyle events. To date this year, more than 347,000 attendees and millions of SPEED viewers around the world have witnessed 1,672 vehicles being auctioned off for approximately $111 million during Barrett-Jackson events in Scottsdale, Ariz., and West Palm Beach, Fla. Barrett-Jackson has also helped raise over $6 million for charity in 2008.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, West Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Carroll Shelby’s First Race Car, 1949 MG TC, To Cross The Block At BARRETT-JACKSON Las Vegas
Scottsdale, Ariz. - August 13, 2008 – A historic 1949 MG TC, the first race car ever driven by legendary racer and manufacturer Carroll Shelby, will be sold at No Reserve during the inaugural Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Las Vegas Oct. 15-18, 2008; a portion of the proceeds from the sale will benefit one of Mr. Shelby’s charities. Shelby piloted the MG (Lot #819) to a surprise victory in a road race in Norman, Okla., in 1952, a win that set the stage for his prolific career. Hailed as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM,” the Las Vegas auction will take place at the Mandalay Bay Events Center and feature hundreds of desirable collector vehicles and lavish lifestyle events, while SPEED cameras capture live, high-definition coverage.
“We’ve sold some special cars during our 37-year history, but this MG ranks among the most significant vehicles to ever cross the Barrett-Jackson auction block,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “In 2007, we sold the ultra-rare 427 Shelby Cobra Super Snake, followed by Carroll’s personal ‘69 GT500 convertible this year in Scottsdale. Now, we’re offering collectors a chance to nab the race car that started it all for the legend over half a century ago, while also benefitting one of his charities. Carroll is an American icon both behind the wheel and under the hood – an inspiration to enthusiasts of all ages.”
Shelby also fired up the MG TC for the day’s second race in Norman, driving it to another victory against the much higher-profile Jaguar XK120s. The back-to-back victories led to one of the most storied careers in motorsports, which pinnacled in 1956 and 1957 when Shelby was consecutively named Sports Car Illustrated’s “Driver of the Year.” He went on to build the legendary Shelby Cobra and Shelby Mustang, along with a slew of other vehicles that have become performance icons.
“My good friend in Dallas, Ed Wilkins, owned the car and let me drive it in the race,” noted Carroll Shelby. “Because it was early in my career, I still had a lot to learn but knew how to go fast. This MG changed my life, because from that point forward, I knew that I wanted to be involved with racing and sport cars.”
The dark green MG TC sports the original 1250cc, 4-cylinder engine with a 4-speed transmission that has since been tuned up to 100-plus horsepower and is race-ready. The new owner will also receive the SCCA Log Book, as well as the original fenders, bonnet and mechanical parts that were stripped from the car for competition. For over 20 years, the MG has been part of the famous Syd Silverman Collection and is well known on the MG vintage race car circuit.
“In addition to the amazing story, this MG is in pristine condition and it’s track-ready,” added Davis. “It would be quite a thrill to drive this beautiful sports car in a vintage race, knowing that Carroll crossed his first finish line behind the same wheel. It’s truly a collector’s dream and will serve as the cornerstone of our inaugural Las Vegas event.”
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Excitement Builds For Barrett-Jackson’s Inaugural Las Vegas Collector Car Event
Scottsdale, Ariz. - July 15, 2008 – Collector car aficionados from around the world will descend on Las Vegas Oct. 15-18,2008, when the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company brings their acclaimed auction and lifestyle event to the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino for the first time. Hundreds of desirable collector vehicles will be sold at No Reserve during the auction at the Mandalay Bay Events Center, while SPEED cameras capture live, high-definition coverage.
The clear leader in the collector car arena, Barrett-Jackson has been producing “The World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” for 37 years in Scottsdale, Ariz., and West Palm Beach, Fla. To date this year, more than 347,000 attendees and millions of SPEED viewers around the world have witnessed 1,672 vehicles being auctioned off for approximately $111 million during these two events combined. The addition of the Las Vegas event represents the third jewel in a triple-crown series that is unmatched in the collector car world.
“Now that we’ve completed two successful auctions in Scottsdale and Palm Beach this year, we’re looking forward to bringing the Barrett-Jackson brand of high octane excitement to Las Vegas,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “We’ve always believed that adding a Las Vegas event was a natural step in the evolution of the company and have received an overwhelming response from consigners and bidders who want to participate in our Vegas auction. As with all Barrett-Jackson auctions, every vehicle in Las Vegas will be offered at No Reserve, which will ensure an accurate, honest marketplace for our customers.”
Barrett-Jackson’s No Reserve policy means that each and every vehicle that crosses the auction block will be sold to the highest bidder. Barrett-Jackson’s consignment staff reviews thousands of applications to create a diverse mix of cars that appeal to a wide range of buyers. Applications are available at http://www.barrett-jackson.com/ or by calling (480) 421-6694.
“When consignors want maximum value for their collector cars, they bring them to Barrett-Jackson,” added Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. “And bidders know that our selection is second to none and that every vehicle is sold when it crosses the auction block. We’ll continue that tradition in Las Vegas with a lineup that appeals to seasoned collectors, as well as first-time buyers. We encourage people to consign their vehicles as early as possible in order to take advantage of our world-class marketing that attracts the hobby’s top collectors.”
The 2008 Las Vegas event will kick off Wednesday, Oct. 15, with a festive party on the famed Mandalay Bay Beach, featuring live entertainment, libations, and a significant charity component benefiting the Lili Claire Foundation. Lili Claire was established to enhance the lives of children living with Williams Syndrome, Down Syndrome, Autism and other neurogenetic disorders, while providing hope and resources for the families who love them. The foundation will also be showcased during the auction when a 2008 Barrett-Jackson Edition Ford Shelby GT Mustang crosses the block along with appearances from Lili Claire’s celebrity supporters. Only 100 of these high performance muscle cars were built and all proceeds from the sale of the car will be donated to the charity.
The first ever collector vehicle to be auctioned by Barrett-Jackson in Las Vegas will cross the block on Thursday, Oct. 16, with auction action continuing through Saturday, Oct. 18. Beyond the auction, the event will encompass a wide range of lifestyle offerings, including an automobilia auction, a vast display from a diverse mix of vendors, and The Garage venue for live music, all taking place at Mandalay Bay.
“Barrett-Jackson represents the gold standard in classic car auctions by providing an exhilarating mix of vintage vehicles, high-energy crowds and thrilling bidding action made possible by their No Reserve policy,” said Mandalay Bay President and COO Bill Hornbuckle. “The energy and excitement of Mandalay Bay and Las Vegas will provide the perfect complement to this highly anticipated event.”
Those planning on attending Barrett-Jackson’s Las Vegas event are encouraged to plan their visit early. Special room rates and packages can be found at http://www.barrett-jackson.com/.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit http://www.barrett-jackson.com/ or call (480) 421-6694.
Charity Support a Centerpiece of Barrett-Jackson’s Palm Beach Event
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., March 24, 2008 – South Florida’s hottest celebrities and prominent socialites will join the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company to kick off the 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Palm Beach at the Opening Night Gala on Wednesday from 7-10:30 p.m. Tickets to the annual charity gathering are $80 each, with all proceeds benefiting the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and The Darrell Gwynn Foundation.
The event marks the beginning of the East Coast’s premier automotive lifestyle event, where hundreds of the world’s top collector vehicles will be sold from Thursday through Sunday. For the sixth consecutive year, the gala and auction will take place at the spacious Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds, located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (www.missingkids.com) helps prevent child abduction and sexual exploitation, find missing children and assist victims of child abduction and sexual exploitation, their families and the professionals who serve them. Led by former drag racer Darrell Gwynn, The Darrell Gwynn Foundation (www.darrellgwynnfoundation.org) was founded to help provide for and ultimately cure spinal cord injuries and other debilitating illnesses.
“The annual charity gala is our way of rolling out the red carpet for the residents of Palm Beach,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “Our guests, who will include celebrities and automotive legends, will enjoy great entertainment, a delectable menu and an electric atmosphere that only a Barrett-Jackson event can generate. The end result of this special night is the money raised for two extraordinary organizations.”
Catering for the charity gala will be provided by Legal Seafood, Macaroni Grill and other Palm Beach-area eateries. Entertainment will include live music from “Heat Wave,” tunes from DJ Marc Evans and an appearance by the XELLENT Vodka Heavenly Angels. A live and silent auction will also be held to benefit the designated charities.
The gala will join a long list of Barrett-Jackson charity initiatives during the Palm Beach auction, as numerous vehicles will be sold to benefit local and national charities. Notable charity vehicles include “Super KITT” and “Attack Mode KITT” from NBC’s “Knight Rider” (Salute to Education), eight vehicles from HBO’s “The Sopranos” (Childrens Hospital Los Angeles), a 1957 Chevrolet convertible custom (The Armed Forces Foundation), a 2008 Saturn Sky which paced the inaugural Fireball Run Rally (Child Rescue Network) and an Eliminator Daytona 500 commemorative boat (The Darrell Gwynn Foundation).
“Amidst the bright lights, beautiful cars and excitement at Barrett-Jackson, our team works diligently to support organizations that put others first,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “And the collector car community, along with our generous sponsors, has really stepped up to make philanthropy a top priority at each event.”
Last year, Barrett-Jackson raised approximately $4.5 million for various charities at the Scottsdale and Palm Beach events combined.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Amazing Cars To Be Sold At No Reserve During Barrett-JacksonPalmBeach Collector Car Auction
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.- March 18, 2008 – In less than two weeks, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company will kick off their 6th Annual Collector Car Event in Palm Beach, Fla., with a broad selection of vehicles once again being offered at the exclusive East Coast auction. Corvettes and classics, Bel Airs and Bosses, Porsches and Plymouths, Cords and Caddies and Shelbys and Superbirds, as well as customs, TV “star cars” and a motorcycle and memorabilia from Evel Knievel will be sold at No Reserve on March 26-30, 2008, in West Palm Beach, Fla. SPEED will once again bring the action home with 19 hours of high definition TV coverage.
“We’ve scheduled a diverse and exciting East Coast automotive lifestyle event,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “Palm Beach is a fantastic setting for the fabulous cars, stellar vendors and nonstop action that will make this year’s event truly memorable. Only Barrett-Jackson makes it possible for anyone to be part of the action with a car for every taste and budget.”
Corvettes
A very comprehensive offering of Corvettes will be represented at the 2008 event in Palm Beach. From the rare 1954 model to a current C6 Z06 Daytona 500 parade car (Lot #643), collectors can choose from significant cars built with a wide spectrum of performance options. Some of the highly anticipated cars include a 1970 ZR-1 LT-1 coupe (Lot #670.1), many “Fuelies” and a 2007 C6 Z06 convertible conversion (Lot #689.3) with a 505 horsepower LS2 engine. Collectors will be able to choose from an array of original, numbers-matching cars, as well as custom Corvettes.
50′s Iron
“1950s-era American cars, including both originals and customs, have risen in popularity over the course of the past year,” noted Jackson. “We have one of our best selections of Bel Airs ever, both customized and stock, including a frame-off restored 1957 Bel Air convertible (Lot #661) that’s a Grand National winner with only 1,000 miles since the restoration and a wild custom 1951 Bel Air coupe (Lot #38). And there are several fuel-injected Bel Airs available this year, which was a fairly rare option.”
Other 1950s-era convertibles available include a 1957 Ford “E” Thunderbird (Lot #378), a stunning 1956 Cadillac El Dorado Biarritz (Lot #672), a 1956 Buick Roadmaster (Lot #686), a 1956 Ford Sunliner (Lot #359.3) and a 1958 Chevrolet Impala (Lot #658). Closed top cars range from a 1957 custom sedandelivery (Lot #39) to a 1954 Buick Super Rivera (Lot #693).
Less Than Two Weeks Remain Until Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach (2/3)
60′s Muscle
“Original Shelbys are very desirable with both old and new collectors,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “We have a fine selection of 1960s-era Shelbys, including a 1968 GT500 convertible (Lot #674) that is one of 402 and a 1967 GT500 fastback (Lot #659) that was signed by Carroll Shelby.”
Other coveted Detroit warriors include a 9,000 original mile Plymouth Superbird (Lot #659.1), 1970 Ford 429 Torino Cobra (Lot #640), 1965 Pontiac GT0 (Lot #30.1), 1968 Camaro RS/SS (Lot # 382), “Plum Crazy” 1970 Dodge Super Bee (Lot #380) and several Chevelles. There will also be a number of convertible model muscle cars offered in Palm Beach.
Star Cars
Cars with star power will be in full force in Palm Beach as eight vehicles from HBO’s “The Sopranos” will cross the block, led by Tony Soprano’s 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV (Lot #633), with net proceeds benefiting Childrens Hospital Los Angeles.
Ford Motor Company will auction a piece of TV history when it sells two KITT Mustangs (Lots #665 & #665.1) used in the “Knight Rider” pilot. Ford partnered with NBC to create the new KITT supercars, inspired by the new Shelby GT500KR. “Super KITT” and “Attack Mode KITT” will be sold as a pair with all proceeds to benefit Salute to Education. Ford, participating dealers and Ford Motor Credit fund Salute to Education, which provides scholarships to college students.
Rounding out the celebrity offerings will be a motorcycle and memorabilia (Lot #650) from the world’s preeminent daredevil, Evel Knievel. The bike, a 1972 Harley Davidson XR 750, will be sold with two jumpsuits, a helmet and boots, as well as X-rays from Knievel’s Caesar’s Palace jump and an original Evel Knievel pinball machine, among other items.
Cool Customs
Customs will also be represented at the Palm Beach event as well as a strong group of Hot Rods. Highlighting this year’s custom lineup is a stunning 1957 Chevrolet convertible (Lot #357), which was built for The Armed Forces Foundation and Super Chevy magazine. Dubbed “Project American Heroes,” the proceeds from the sale of the car will benefit The Armed Forces Foundation, which provides support to the families of fallen or disabled soldiers.
In conjunction with Ford, ROUSH Performance will auction the final 2008 ROUSH P-51 Mustang produced in a limited run of 151 cars. The custom Mustang, which will be sold to benefit Salute to Education, features 510 horsepower, 510 lb/ft of torque and was modeled after the P-51 Mustang warbird aircraft.
Less Than Two Weeks Remain Until Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach (3/3)
Another high-profile car headed to South Florida is a 1967 Ford Mustang “Pit Viper.” The custom fastback is Serial No. 005 from the limited production build by Total Performance Inc. and includes an all aluminum 427ci, 550-plus horsepower small-block Ford engine and a full race suspension.
European Exotics
A stellar group of collector cars from across the pond will find new owners in Palm Beach, led by a 1955 Porsche Speedster (Lot #638.1) and Jaguar XKE roadsters from 1965 and 1967 (Lots #654.1 & #657.1). Austin-Healeys, which have become hot properties, will be well represented by a pristine 1965 3000 Mark III convertible (Lot #654) and two 1960 3000 BT7 roadsters (Lots #360 & #373). For a collector searching for a quirky new addition to their garage, a 1967 Amphicar 770 convertible with right hand drive (Lot #7) will be sold during the first day of the auction.
Barrett-Jackson has also attracted several “great classics” that will parade across the auction block. Underscoring this segment is an immaculate 1948 Lincoln Convertible (Lot #637), a 1948 Lincoln Continental coupe (Lot #352) with only 70,000 miles and a 1937 Cord (Lot #638).
Another popular trend that will continue this year in Palm Beach will be the Barrett-Jackson Automobilia Auction. The one-of-a-kind automobile collectibles will be offered at No Reserve prior to the start of the vehicle auction on March 27-30. The 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Palm Beach will be kicked off by the annual Opening Night Gala for charity on March 26.
“We will once again work very hard to raise money for a group of worthy charities,” stated Davis. “Our gala will benefit The Darrell Gwynn Foundation and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. And Salute to Education, a designated Ford charity, will benefit from the sale of six high-profile offerings and receive 10 percent of the gate totals on Sunday, March 30.”
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Ford Shelby Mustangs At Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach
All Proceeds to Benefit to Ford’s “Salute to Education” Program
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., March 14, 2008 – Ford Motor Company will auction a piece of TV history when it sells two of the actual KITT Ford Shelby Mustangs used in NBC’s “Knight Rider” pilot at the 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on March 29, 2008, in West Palm Beach, Fla. The cars, which will be sold to benefit Salute to Education, appeared as Ford Shelby GT500KRs that had been transformed into a “Knight Industries 3000″ (KITT) for the show. SPEED will broadcast the sale of the KITT Mustangs live during its auction coverage in the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
“The Barrett-Jackson Automotive lifestyle event in Palm Beach always attracts many celebrities, and this year someone will take home two genuine TV stars,” said Steve Davis, president of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “This is a once in a lifetime chance to own a pair of celebrity cars with extraordinary star power, while also supporting a worthy charity. Imagine going to the office or dropping your kid off at school in KITT. Ford and Barrett-Jackson are offering a chance to live the ‘Knight Rider’ experience every day.”
Ford partnered with NBC to create a new KITT supercar, inspired by the new Shelby GT500KR, to star in the “Knight Rider” TV series which premiered on NBC on February 17, 2008. “Super KITT” and “Attack Mode KITT” will be sold as a pair (Lot #665 and #665.1) with all proceeds to benefit Salute to Education.
Ford Motor Company, participating Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers and Ford Motor Credit fund Salute to Education. Through programs such as Salute to Education, more than $7 million has been given to high school students over the last 16 years to jumpstart their education with scholarships for college.
“Super KITT” was built using a black Mustang GT with 4.6 Liter V8 that was upfitted with a Ford Racing Whipple Super-charger to make 500 horsepower. Additional performance elements include 6-piston Brembo Brakes, FRC500 Suspension Pak, High Flow Ford Racing X-Pipe and Ford Racing mufflers with stainless tips. The exterior sports a GT500KR fiberglass hood with a KITT heartbeat light, GT500 front and rear bumper covers, matte black LeMans stripes, matte finish rocker panels, GT500KR rear spoilers and 20″ forged aluminum wheels.
Barrett-Jackson to Auction KITT TV Cars in Palm Beach (2/2)
“Attack Mode KITT” began as a black Mustang GT with 4.6 Liter V8, auto transmission, custom front valance/grille based on the GT500KR, carbon graphite chin spoiler, custom rear bumper cover, custom side faux air scoops, custom side skirt/rocker panel, two-tiered rear spoiler, custom rear window insert, custom turn signal trim, custom headlight trim brow and 20″ forged black aluminum wheels. Performance features include Brembo Brakes, a FRC Suspension Pak and Ford Racing mufflers with stainless tips.
“We’re pleased to offer these cars, which have already become cultural icons, at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in Palm Beach,” added Robert Parker, car marketing manager for Ford Motor Company. “‘Knight Rider’ gave the public an opportunity to see some of the capabilities of the new 540 horsepower Ford Shelby GT500KR, though the standard production model does not include all the ‘enhancements’ made to KITT. The new owner of these cars will have a piece of Hollywood and also help thousands of students realize their dream for a college or university education.”
The two KITT cars were created to look like the new Ford Shelby GT500KR pony cars created by Ford Motor Company and Shelby Automobiles. The 5.4 Liter 540-horsepower Ford Shelby GT500KR is the most powerful factory-built Mustang ever produced. Approximately 1,000 total 2008 coupes will be built at Shelby’s facility in Las Vegas and arrive in dealerships this summer.
With all proceeds benefiting Salute to Education, the two KITT cars will join a long list of cars in Palm Beach that will be auctioned for charity including several from the hit HBO series “The Sopranos.” On March 26, Barrett-Jackson will host their annual Opening Night Gala to raise money for The Darrell Gwynn Foundation and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. During the 2007 Palm Beach event, Barrett-Jackson raised over $500,000 for various charities.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Net Proceeds from “The Sopranos” Cars to BenefitChildrensHospitalLos Angeles
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., February 28, 2008 – Cars and SUVs driven by the famous TV mobsters on “The Sopranos” will be sold at No Reserve during the 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on March 26-30, 2008, in West Palm Beach, Fla. A total of eight vehicles from the award winning HBO series will cross the block, led by Tony Soprano’s 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV, with net proceeds benefiting Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. SPEED will once again bring the action home with 19 hours of TV coverage during the auction as approximately 600 of the finest collector vehicles are sold at No Reserve. For the sixth consecutive year, the event will take place at the spacious Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds, located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach.
“From the biggest show on television to the biggest stage in the collector car industry, these movie star vehicles will demand the spotlight in Palm Beach,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “A staple in American pop culture, ‘The Sopranos’ captured the attention of viewers across the globe, much like Barrett-Jackson events are watched by devoted car enthusiasts worldwide on SPEED. We’re thrilled to join forces with HBO for this special project to help raise funds for Childrens Hospital Los Angeles.”
The signature piece of “The Sopranos” collection is the white 2003 Cadillac Escalade driven by mob boss Tony Soprano during the final three seasons of the series. Scheduled for sale during SPEED’s primetime coverage on Saturday, March 29, the fully loaded Escalade has only 11,000 miles on the odometer and features clear, untinted windshields for exterior camera shots of the show’s leading character.
Another high-profile car headed to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach is the champagne 2003 Cadillac CTS utilized by one of Tony’s top soldiers, Paulie Walnuts. The CTS is infamous for its demolition of Christopher Moltisanti’s new front yard in the “Kennedy and Heidi” episode during Season 6. Two more vehicles that played key roles in Season 6, a red 1997 Mercury Villager minivan driven by Tony and Paulie and a black Cadillac Deville driven by crew member Vito Spatafore, will also be sold.
“When a TV series becomes as popular as ‘The Sopranos,’ the cars driven by the larger-than-life characters become stars as well,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Another factor that adds to the value of these celebrity vehicles is the ‘staying power’ of the series. Decades from now, ‘The Sopranos’ will still be appreciated as one of the top series in TV history, making these star cars significant well into the future.”
A pair of blue Lincoln Town Cars, utilized by rival gangster Phil Leotardo and the New York-based Lupertazzi crime family, will be sold as a pair in Palm Beach. The two cars were featured in numerous episodes of “The Sopranos,” most notably in the climactic Bada Bing shootout scene in “The Blue Comet” episode during Season 6. Additional cars from that high-energy scene that will be auctioned include two 1993 Cadillacs driven by Patsy Parisi, which will be sold together.
With net proceeds benefiting Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, “The Sopranos” vehicles will join a long list of cars in Palm Beach that will be auctioned for charity. On March 26, Barrett-Jackson will host their annual Opening Night Gala to raise money for The Darrell Gwynn Foundation and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. During the 2007 Palm Beach event, Barrett-Jackson raised over $500,000 for various charities.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
BARRETT-JACKSON TO HOSTULTIMATEEASTCOASTCOLLECTOR CAR CELEBRATION IN PALMBEACH
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., February 8, 2008 – Stunning vehicles, lavish parties and red hot celebrities will return to the beaches of South Florida when the 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event rolls into West Palm Beach, Fla., on March 26-30, 2008. SPEED will once again bring the action home with TV coverage during the auction as approximately 600 of the finest collector vehicles are sold at No Reserve. Due to popularity and viewer demand, SPEED will expand their event coverage to 19 hours.
The world-famous automotive lifestyle event will kick off on Wednesday, March 26, with a preview day for bidders and auction participants and the highly anticipated Opening Night Gala from 7:30-10:30 p.m. EST, with proceeds to benefit The Darrell Gwynn Foundation. For the sixth consecutive year, the event will take place at the spacious South Florida Expo Center, located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach.
“The Barrett-Jackson automotive lifestyle event in Palm Beach has grown to become the most well-respected, highly attended collector car auction along the East Coast,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “Last year, we welcomed an unprecedented number of new buyers to the hobby, continuing our efforts to fuel the passion for collector cars that resonates throughout the United States. After a spectacular event in Scottsdale, where attendance records were shattered and sales were strong, we’re expecting another sizzling auction week beneath the sun in Palm Beach.”
Highlighting this year’s Palm Beach lineup is a stunning 1957 Chevrolet convertible, which was custom built for the Armed Forces Foundation and Super Chevy magazine. Dubbed “Project American Heroes,” the proceeds from the sale of the car in Palm Beach will benefit The Armed Forces Foundation, which provides support to the families of fallen or disabled soldiers. The convertible is powered by a 572ci, 717 horsepower custom built Chevy big block engine with an automatic transmission. Select Armed Forces personnel were invited to choose the ultimate design specs for the custom Chevy, including the blue pearl color scheme, interior design and exterior trim.
Cars with star power will be well represented in Palm Beach as 13 vehicles from HBO’s “The Soprano’s” will be sold. Another high-profile car headed to South Florida is a 1967 Ford Mustang “Pit Viper.” The custom fastback is Serial No. 005 from the limited production build by Total Performance Inc. and includes a 427ci, 550-plus horsepower small-block Ford engine.
Barrett-Jackson Revs Up For 6th Annual Palm Beach Event (2/2)
“Palm Beach will once again provide the perfect setting for Barrett-Jackson’s one-of-a-kind automotive extravaganza,” added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “From muscle cars to classics, we’re lining up a diverse offering of collector cars for Palm Beach. We’re taking the same approach that led to a successful Palm Beach event in 2007 with cars that appeal to seasoned collectors, as well as entry level collectors looking for good values.”
Another popular trend that will continue this year in Palm Beach will be the Barrett-Jackson Automobilia Auction. The one-of-a-kind automobile collectibles will be offered at No Reserve prior to the start of the vehicle auction on March 27-30. In Scottsdale, automobilia earnings were off the charts with nearly $1 million in total sales recorded. In addition, the public can shop from a multitude of vendors that will be part of the automotive lifestyle event.
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces the “World’s Greatest Collector Car EventsTM” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
