UP FOR ADOPTION: RARE, LIFE-SIZE MECHANICAL ELEPHANT SEEKS NEW HOME AT AUCTIONS AMERICA’S LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALE

UP FOR ADOPTION: RARE, LIFE-SIZE MECHANICAL ELEPHANT SEEKS NEW HOME
AT AUCTIONS AMERICA’S LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALE

·        ‘Wendell’ the life-size, mechanical elephant makes auction debut at Auctions America’s Auburn Fall event this weekend

·        A Labor Day tradition spanning more than 45 years, Auburn Fall returns to the historic Auburn Auction Park, August 31 – September 4

·        Multi-day event highlighted by auction featuring 900+ collector cars and assorted automobilia

·        Weekend also features exciting range of auto-themed activities for the whole family, including appearance by former pro-wrestler Bill Goldberg

·        Frequently updated list of entries and digital preview catalog available at www.auctionsamerica.com 

AUBURN, Indiana (August 29, 2016) – A life-size mechanical elephant that once inhabited Detroit, was used in the presidential campaign for Dwight Eisenhower, and made an appearance at the 1980 Republican Convention, is set to steal the spotlight at Auctions America’s Auburn Fall Collector Car Weekend, August 31 – September 4. A Labor Day weekend tradition spanning more than 45 years, the annual event at Indiana’s historic Auburn Auction Park coincides with the world-famous Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival, bringing thousands of enthusiasts to the Classic Car Capital of America.

Over the years, Auburn Fall has been witness to the sale of hundreds of quality collector cars, with a roster of no less than 900+ vehicles slated for this year’s podium. Towering over the classic rides at this week’s sale will be Wendell, the Auburn Auction Park’s resident mechanical elephant, who after taking up residence at the Auction Park in 2013, is now looking for a new home.

“Wendell the elephant represents a very unique ownership opportunity and the ultimate conversation piece,” says Megan Boyd, car specialist, Auctions America. “The fully operational, life-size mechanical elephant would be a unique topper on any collection of cars, or could easily reprise his role as a distinctive promotional piece. We’re sad to see Wendell go, but look forward to hearing about his new adventures as the 65-year old elephant embarks on a new chapter.”

Formerly known as Jumbo, Wendell was built in England in 1951 and is one of only two known surviving examples. Originally ordered by Cunningham Drug Stores of Detroit for a promotional tour of its stores, the elephant was later used in the Motor City’s 250th anniversary celebration before making an appearance at the Republican National Convention of 1980.

Moving like the real thing, Wendell—who weighs a massive 1400 pounds and measures a monstrous 12 feet in length and approximately 8 feet 6 inches high at the top of his head—is powered by his original Model 948 Anglia water-cooled engine, with each leg moving independently, controlled by the driver perched on his neck. He also boasts the ability to shoot water from his trunk, thanks to a retrofitted five-gallon water tank, and is equipped with a CD player and speakers, providing music and sound effects.

Truly an engineering marvel of his time, the rare gentle giant is set to make a big splash this Labor Day weekend where he is expected to bring more than $250,000. As part of Auctions America’s commitment to give back to the local community in which it operates, a portion of proceeds from Wendell’s sale will benefit Kate’s Kart, a Northeast Indiana not-for-profit organization founded in memory of Katherine Anne Layman, (affectionately known to family and friends as "Baby Kate"), that supplies free new books to hospitalized children in the area.

This deserving local organization will also benefit from the sale of the Gary “Chopit” Fioto-designed “Bubbletop” Scooter Custom, commissioned by television personality and collector Barry Weiss after he purchased the original vehicle on an episode of Storage Wars. With an assortment of quirky features, including a flamethrower rear exhaust and tiki ice bucket, the custom power chair was built as a tribute to Fioto’s famed 1955 Ford “Beatnik Bubbletop”, which was sold at a previous Auctions America event. In addition, this Friday (September 2), Auctions America will offer Buy One Get One Free Admission to attendees that bring in a new, quality children’s book for donation to Kate’s Kart at the main gate of the Auburn Auction Park. Further information and a list of currently needed books are available at www.kateskart.org.

This year’s Auburn Fall docket is highlighted by a terrific assortment of hugely desirable collector cars, including an ACD trifecta and a pair of Shelby Cobras. For those drawn to star power and provenance, some of the more unique offerings set to draw collector interest at Auctions America’s Labor Day Weekend tradition include:

·        1969 Dodge Charger “General Lee’, one of four “Bo’s General Lee” built by John Schneider (who played Bo Duke) and reported to have appeared in commercials and the film, Behind the Scenes with Bo. The General Lee comes to auction having been previously owned by Schneider along with former NBA basketball player and current ESPN analyst, Jalen Rose (Est. $80,000 - $120,000);

·        1964 Yamaha Batcycle with Sidecar, believed to be an original Batcycle used in the mid-60s Batman movie and television show (Est. $25,000 - $35,000, offered without reserve); and,

·        a 2004 Brinks Truck Mission Impossible III Movie Prop, reportedly used in the hit 2006 action spy film starring Tom Cruise (Est. $20,000 - $30,000, also offered without reserve).

Beyond the auction action, Auburn Fall features an exciting host of automotive-themed activities for the whole family, including Monster Truck Shows and Rides, Freestyle Sportbike Stuntshows and the Ultimate Race Fan Experience, featuring cars and simulators from Stewart-Haas Racing.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet professional athlete, former pro-wrestler, TV host and automobile aficionado Bill Goldberg, who will be signing autographs at the Auction Park on Saturday, September 3.

Enthusiasts looking for an opportunity to show off their own ride can join the Auctions America team for the Auburn Fall installment of the company’s Cars & Coffee series between 9am – 11am this Saturday, September 3. A full list of ancillary activities scheduled as part of this weekend’s Auburn Fall event is available online here: http://bit.ly/2biYSWg.

1985 BRISTOL BEAUFIGHTER - COYS AUCTION 08/09/16

COMING TO AUCTION

Brought to you by CLASSIC CHATTER

www.classicchatter.co.uk

Classic Chatter is an independent website for owners& enthusiasts of all types of historic vehicles.

As well as our main website we post regularly on our sites related to Showroom Classics, Auction & Event News.

Fontwell House, Fontwell Park, Sussex, BN18 0SX

www.coys.co.uk

1985 BRISTOL BEAUFIGHTER

The distinctive Zagato penned styling and unique roof options are like no other large convertible, with the Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible and Bentley Turbo being the likeliest competitors when introduced. Indeed, the Bristol was priced almost identically to the Bentley 8 during its production life.

In keeping with its aircraft heritage all body panels are in aluminium and the car was painstakingly hand-built at Filton, Bristol, in the shadow of Concorde’s birthplace. Of the Beaufighters produced few have the desirable removable targa roof section which in itself is fitted with a removable sunroof, although all vehicles have the convertible Coupe de Ville folding rear section some with a hard top option in addition. For flexibility of convertible cruising options the Beaufighter is unbeatable. The car is endowed with the standard Bristol 5.9 litre V8 but in Beaufighter guise is fitted with a Roto-Master turbo providing over 330 bhp, huge levels of torque, 0-60 in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 150mph. Positive and sensitive ZF steering, all round adjustable Koni shock absorbers and up-rated suspension all provide the surprisingly stable handling that you would expect of a marque with a motor racing pedigree, whilst at the same time accommodating five adults in supreme comfort.  This fascinating car is supplied with a UK registration document, and relevant books and manuals. While the engine and transmission in good condition but in need of a little cosmetic attention, this is a fantastic opportunity to purchase a super rare, fast, luxurious British GT car at a very attractive price.

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2008 FERRARI F430 SPIDER - SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS

COMING TO AUCTION

Brought to you by CLASSIC CHATTER

www.classicchatter.co.uk

Classic Chatter is an independent website for owners& enthusiasts of all types of historic vehicles.

As well as our main website we post regularly on our sites related to Showroom Classics, Auction & Event News.

SATURDAY 3rd SEPTEMBER 2016

BLENHEIM PALACE, WOODSTOCK, OXFORDSHIRE, OX20 1PP

Viewing

Viewing of the lots will be available as follows:

Thursday 1^st September from 11am until 6pm.

Friday 2^nd September from 11am until 6pm.

Saturday 3^rd September 2016 from 9am until 3pm.

Photo Credit: Auto Italia Nagazine

2008 FERRARI F430 SPIDER

Registration: SN58BKK

Chassis Number: ZFFEZ59C000160071

Engine Number: 131835

Number of cylinders: 8

CC: 4308

Year of Manufacture: 2008

Estimate (£): 125,000 - 145,000

Manufactured from 2004 until 2009, the Ferrari F430 was the successor to the enormously successful 360M. According to its creators, the F430 was at least 70 % new compared with the 360. It had a new engine, a new F1 gearbox, a new diff and a brand-new chassis, and although the styling is obviously reminiscent of the 360M’s, in reality, it’s pretty much a ground-up design. Only the bonnet, doors, and roof were carried over; the rest, even the door mirrors, were all new and largely the work of Pininfarina, overseen by Ferrari’s design chief Frank Stephenson. 

The F430’s complex variable-valve-timing system is also lifted straight from the Enzo’s V12, and as ever there is dry-sump lubrication, a very high compression ratio (11.3:1), a variable airflow plenum chamber. and an enormous electronic brain making the decisions in the form of not one, but two, Bosch Motronic ME7 ECUs. At 483bhp it has a significant 21 % more power than the 360. Its fabulous 4.3-litre V8 will rocket this very sleek new Ferrari from 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds and on to a maximum speed in excess of 196mph. 

Having been designed initially with a later convertible in mind, the arrival of the Spider in 2005 was no surprise. Weighing only a few pounds more than the Berlinetta and having been designed with the aid of the company's F1 aerodynamicists, the Spider is just as slippery and its top speed is only a few miles an hour less. The ingenious electric soft-top mechanism works really quickly and makes its predecessor seem almost ponderous by comparison. A soft top was chosen as opposed to a Mercedes-style folding steel panel as Ferrari wanted its glorious red-top engine to remain in view. 

Offered here is a UK, right-hand drive F430 Spider that’s fitted with the rare and desirable manual gearbox. Presented in the striking combination of Grigio Alloy (Light Blue/Silver) with Crema hide, this car has covered 13,100 miles since leaving Maranello in 2008. It has a full service history having been looked after by Graypaul with the most recent service on 26/07/2016 and the history file contains a comprehensive list of the Ferrari's maintenance from new.

Factory fitted options include ceramic brakes with red calipers, coloured dashboard, electric seats and the Navtrak anti-theft system. Not only that, but this car comes with its full Ferrari tool kit, tyre pressure and puncture kit, Ferrari car cover, seat covers, wired-in battery conditioner and still has one year left on its Ferrari power warranty. 

This low-mileage 430 Spider has clearly been well cared for and being well optioned, particularly with the manual gearbox, is a very desirable car.

Photo credits: Auto Italia Magazine. 

SOURCE: https://www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-salon-prive-sale-2016/view_lots

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Since: 2010

1987 FORD SIERRA COSWORTH RS500 - SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS 03/09/16

COMING TO AUCTION

Brought to you by CLASSIC CHATTER

www.classicchatter.co.uk

Classic Chatter is an independent website for owners& enthusiasts of all types of historic vehicles.

As well as our main website we post regularly on our sites related to Showroom Classics, Auction & Event News.

SATURDAY 3rd SEPTEMBER 2016

BLENHEIM PALACE, WOODSTOCK, OXFORDSHIRE, OX20 1PP

Viewing

Viewing of the lots will be available as follows:

Thursday 1^st September from 11am until 6pm.

Friday 2^nd September from 11am until 6pm.

Saturday 3^rd September 2016 from 9am until 3pm.

Registration: E700 VNT

Chassis Number: WF0EXXGBBEGG38948

Engine Number: GG38948

Number of cylinders: 4

CC: 1993

1987 FORD SIERRA COSWORTH RS 500

When Stuart Turner was appointed the head of Ford Motorsport in Europe in 1983, he quickly came to the conclusion that the company was no longer competitive in motorsport. Walter Hayes, having instigated the Cosworth DFV engine and Ford's assault on Le Mans with the GT40, was still the driving force at Ford and not surprisingly, Hayes was enthusiastic about Turner's plans to produce a turbocharged Cosworth 2.0 litre engine that would power a current Ford saloon in motorsport. Cosworth already had a cylinder head design that was promising and was matched to the Ford T88 Pinto block, so they agreed to produce the 2.0litre turbo engine providing that Ford signed off a production run of 15,000 units.

The introduction of the Sierra in 1982 required a marketing boost, so it was allocated to become the platform for Ford's new competition aspirations. It was rear-wheel drive, had good aerodynamics, albeit being prone to lift at high speeds and  was available as a three-door. The new body kit and rear spoiler would sort out the lift issues, but Ford still needed to build 5,000 units for homologation; this was somewhat worrying when Turner's initial approach to the dealer network came back with an estimate that suggested they could sell around 1,500 units! The successful eventual sales record is of course history. Ford went on to sell 5,545 three-door cars including the RS500, of which only 500 were built, and the Cosworth engine also found its way into nearly 30,000 Ford Sierra Saloons (Cosworth 3dr, Sapphire 2wd and 4wd). The Sierra Cosworth comfortably exceeded Ford's wishes and it went on to become one of the most successful Touring Car racers of all time, winning races all over the world.

This stunning, matching numbers, RS500, build number 50, was delivered via Telford Ford to its first owner in August 1987. Showing a mere 50,943 miles at the time of cataloguing, this car has been fastidiously maintained throughout its life as can be seen in its extensive history file containing the original fully stamped service manual which quite literally has been filled to the point where no more stamps can be added.

It remained with its first owner until the summer of '88 when it was sold to its second custodian who kept the car until '95, and in a similar fashion to his predecessor, the car was annually serviced and well maintained. The third owner kept the car until 2011, continuing the high standards of maintenance and care. Its fourth and current owner, in common with the first three, kept the car in great condition but did not register it in his name and instead put the Cosworth into dry storage. In 2015, it was sent to Paul Linfoot for a full service where a new clutch, new cam belt and tensioner, and a new oil filter were fitted. During our vendor's ownership, a new stainless steel exhaust has been fitted, along with a new rocker cover gasket and a new fuel pressure regulator all totalling £1,055. Supplied with an MoT until 30/11/ 2016 and its V5c.

These cars of the Eighties and Nineties are becoming increasingly sought after and are some of the fastest appreciating classics in the current market, and the appetite for well kept, low volume Fords, in particular, shows no sign of abating. Now offered for sale once again, this sparkling Cosworth RS500 is an absolute must for the astute collector and enthusiast, as well as being tremendous fun to drive.

SOURCE: https://www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-salon-prive-sale-2016/view_lots/pn/all

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Since: 2010

2010 MERCEDES - BENZ SLS AMG COUPE - SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS SALON PRIVE SALE

COMING TO AUCTION

Brought to you by CLASSIC CHATTER

www.classicchatter.co.uk

Classic Chatter is an independent website for owners& enthusiasts of all types of historic vehicles.

As well as our main website we post regularly on our sites related to Showroom Classics, Auction & Event News.

SATURDAY 3rd SEPTEMBER 2016

BLENHEIM PALACE, WOODSTOCK, OXFORDSHIRE, OX20 1PP

Viewing

Viewing of the lots will be available as follows:

Thursday 1^st September from 11am until 6pm.

Friday 2^nd September from 11am until 6pm.

Saturday 3^rd September 2016 from 9am until 3pm.

Registration: RF60 ZGD

Chassis Number: WDD1973771A0004942

Engine Number: A1590100000

Number of cylinders: 8

CC: 6.3

2010 MERCEDES - BENZ SLS AMG COUPE

Launched at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt on 15 September 2009, the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG unquestionably succeeded when it came to fulfilling the Company's intention to create  “Automotive fascination and high tech of the highest order, we want this super sports car to boast a purist design, the systematic incorporation of lightweight engineering and superior handling dynamics. At the same time, the SLS will deliver the high everyday utility and exemplary safety that typifies Mercedes-Benz, making the new 'gullwing' the ideal synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG”

Indeed, the new rocket ship from Mercedes-Benz and AMG did dazzle with its unparalleled technology package which includes: an aluminium space frame body with gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre, front-mid V8 engine with a top power of 571 hp, 650 Nm of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual clutch in a transaxle configuration; a sports chassis with aluminium double-wishbone suspension; and a kerb weight of 1,620 kilograms. It’s a combination that guarantees supreme handling dynamics. The car’s ideal weight distribution between the front and rear axles (47/53) and its low centre of gravity emphasize the vehicle's pronounced sports car nature. The gullwing accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds, has a top speed of 197 mph (electronically limited) and the fuel consumption of 21.4 mpg (combined) was the best-in-class at the time.

Mercedes-AMG GmbH were obviously pleased with themselves, as this statement from the Chairman, Volker Mornhinweg, suggests  “In the SLS AMG, our customers benefit first-hand from the expertise gleaned by Mercedes-AMG from more than 40 years of motorsport experience. The unparalleled technology package provides extraordinary handling dynamics with moderate fuel consumption—another hallmark of AMG today,”

It's not just the gullwing doors that awaken reminiscences of the legendary fifties 300 SL. The characteristic wide radiator grille with the large Mercedes-Benz star and the wing-like fin are also reminiscent of the face of that historic sports car. The three-dimensional, sculptured front with the low, v-shaped front skirt with lateral indentations gives this new gullwing a powerful, almost aggressive stance on the road, a sort of 'Don't mess with me' look. The car’s dominance is underscored by six large air intakes and the wide set, Bi-xenon vertical headlamps.

Silvertsone Auctions are proud to offer this left-hand drive Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Finished in the most beautiful Designo-Magno-Sylvanite Grey Matte (a stunning, shiny-matt, liquid silver) with an 'Exclusive' anthracite leather interior, AMG Silver mouldings and inserts, and an AMG performance steering wheel.

According to its build sheet, this 6.3 litre V8 SLS left the production plant at Sindeflingen, Germany in April 2010 and was sent to Mercedes-Benz Japan to be delivered into the hands of its very happy new owner. It was subsequently imported into the UK directly from Japan and was first registered here in May of this year (2016). Carrying the registration number 'RF60 ZGD', the Mercedes is supplied with a UK V5c, a valid MOT certificate until March, 2017 and the odometer is currently reading a mere 9,811 miles.  

Specification includes: AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed sports transmission, electrically folding exterior mirrors, reverse and front cameras, AMG performance suspension, electrically adjustable seat memory, air conditioning, DVD and Command system, media interface, Bi-xenon headlamps, and AMG Alloy wheels shod with Continental tires. 

This 'supercar' is described by the owner as being in exceptional condition, the engine is said to be an “orchestra for V8 lovers and a masterpiece of engineering”. The car is supplied with a fully documented Japanese main dealer Mercedes-AMG service history, its original AMG leather wallet and a full set of AMG service and handbooks. 

There is no better way to describe this vehicle other than truly breathtaking, it really is special. Production ceased in 2014 and Mercedes-AMG have elected not to replace the car, so we can only surmise what will happen to values. We commend this fabulous car for your attention.

SOURCE: https://www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-salon-prive-sale-2016/view_lots/pn/all

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CLASSIC CHATTER

KEEPING IT CLASSIC

Since: 2010

1990 AUDI RR QUATTRO TURBO 20v -SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS

COMING TO AUCTION

Brought to you by CLASSIC CHATTER

www.classicchatter.co.uk

Classic Chatter is an independent website for owners& enthusiasts of all types of historic vehicles.

As well as our main website we post regularly on our sites related to Showroom Classics, Auction & Event News.

1990 AUDI RR QUATTRO TURBO 20v

Registration: G866 NHL

Chassis Number: WAUZZZ85ZLA000668, Engine Number: RR001519

Number of cylinders: 5  CC: 2100cc

Estimate (£): 60,000 - 70,000

The Audi 'Quattro' presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1980 represented a quantum leap in the repositioning of the Audi brand with their mission statement "Vorsprung durch Technik" having been applied literally. A new 20-valve engine was introduced in 1989 and with it, the Quattro became the last series production model to be given a controlled catalytic converter. After 11,452 Quattro cars had been built, production of the longest built Audi model ceased on 17 May 1991.

This 20-valve Audi Quattro RR Turbo was supplied new to the UK by Audi and VW main agent Gilders of Sheffield on 25th April 1990. The first owner was a Mr M.Chappell and amongst the factory options he selected were heated seats, central locking, ABS, larger alternator, electric windows, ‘Quattro' design interior, and Chrystal Metallic Silver bodywork. Despite an ownership change to his business and then back to him personally, this is effectively a one owner from new Audi Quattro.

The original service book shows evidence of regular service intervals and the car was last serviced by Audi specialists Swift Performance of Sheffield in April 2016. The service book, some invoices and a good number of previous MoT certificates substantiate a total mileage of a mere 16,231 miles.

As one would expect for such a low mileage example, this Quattro is in show condition and is the best example we have ever seen. The paint is in fine order and the shut lines are superb. The engine bay is extremely clean and shows no signs of modifications with factory correct finishes, stickers, and fittings. The interior is in very good condition and is completely original.

Finding an original 20v Quattro is hard enough in the current marketplace, but one showing just 16,231 miles is a truly special proposition. With BMW E30 M3s and Mercedes-Benz Evo models hitting new heights in recent years, it seems that the humble Quattro will inevitably follow in their footsteps. With world rally winning pedigree and a growing cult status, the demand for low-mileage Quattros is surely going to increase for many years to come.

We encourage pre-sale inspections and prospective bidders should contact the office for further information on this true ‘best-of-breed' example. Your chance to relive the glorious 1980s in ‘the' car of its era!

SOURCE: https://www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-salon-prive-sale-2016/view_lots

SELECTED BY: CLASSIC CHATTER

CLASSIC CHATTER

KEEPING IT CLASSIC

Since: 2010