Ferrari Leads the Way at the Amelia Auction

Total sales at the recent Amelia Island classic car auction reached a record level of $178.4 million.

Any fears of a recession, rising rates or the falling stock market were completely blown away and proved once again that the collectible market is still strong. Seven of the top ten cars sold in terms of value were Ferraris, so the Prancing Horse was certainly leading the pack here.

The previous sales record for this event was $140 million back in 2016, and at this year's event over 390 cars were sold, at an average price of $455,293, up from $435,939.

43 cars sold for over $1 million, up from 33 last year, and while collectors are starting to decline some over-priced offerings, overall demand for top trophy cars remains strong, especially among a new generation of millennial collectors.

The most expensive car sold at Amelia Island was a 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider, sold at Gooding & Company for $18 million, setting a record in the process for a car sold at the Amelia Island auctions.

In second place and not a Ferrari, was a 2010 Pagani Zonda R Coupe that went for $5.3 million at RM Sotheby's, followed by a 1995 Ferrari F50 Coupe that sold for $5.1 million, also at RM Sotheby's.

1980s and 1990s sports cars proved popular due to having the look and performance of many modern-day supercars but with a lower price tag and a somewhat more retro image.

The other five Ferraris that featured in the top 10 sellers were as follows;

A 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO Coupe at almost $4 million, a 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Coupe at a shade over $3.5 million, a 1953 Ferrari 250 MM Spider also at just over $3.5 million, a 1990 Ferrari F40 Coupe at just over $3 million, and finally a 1973 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spider for just over $2.5 million.

For the record, a 1931 Duesenberg Model J Murphy Convertible Coupe and a 1953 Maserati A6GCS/53 Spyder were the other two cars that made it into the Ferrari-dominated winner's enclosure.

To view a great selection of current Ferraris for sale then look no further than our marque-dedicated site right here at www.ferrarimotorcarsales.com

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Museo Enzo Ferrari: Game Changers Exhibition

The "Game Changers" exhibition recently opened at the Ferrari Museum in Monza, celebrating the Prancing Horse's Spirit of Innovation.

Since its earliest days, Ferrari has been renowned for its passionate soul and focus on both the future and innovation, which has always been driven by the pioneering spirit of its founder.

The very first car, a 125 S in 1947, was the start of what was to come. A completely original design powered by a high-revving but lightweight 1500cc V12 engine. It arrived and marked the start of a long series of game-changing cars that made history and left an indelible mark on the automotive world.

This is the starting point of the Museo Enzo Ferrari's new Game Changers exhibition, which showcases some of the most significant cars in Prancing Horse history in a wholly new context, this time telling the Maranello marque's story through the eyes of innovation.

Game Changers will take you on a journey of exploration of Ferrari's most revolutionary models and their futuristic designs, the most innovative technology it adopted in its competition and GT cars alike, and the outstanding performance delivered by its relentless research and development which resulted in its most unforgettable victories.

The story at the exhibition is divided into three sections: design, technology and performance.

Outstanding examples of virtuoso design are the 375 MM, penned by Pinin Farina in 1952 which was also the first one-off commissioned by Roberto Rossellini for Ingrid Bergman, and the 166 MM, the first aluminium-bodied Barchetta.

A prime example of Ferrari's technological innovation is the 400 Automatic, the first 2+2 Grand Tourer in 1976 with the automatic gearbox. A Ferrari F1-89 is also on view, the first-ever single-seater to adopt an electrohydraulic gearbox.

In the Performance section, visitors can admire the 1973 365 GT4 BB, the first mid-engined GT Berlinetta with an original 180° V12, and 2005's Ferrari FXX, the first model in a Prancing Horse special series designed specifically for track use.

Innovation is a subject close to Ferrari and the exhibition concludes with the latest game-changer, the Purosangue, a four-seater, four-door, this being a first for Ferrari. This is a completely original design in every way

The Game Changers exhibition runs at the Museo Enzo Ferrari in Modena from now until 17 February 2024.

More details can be found on their museum website page:

https://www.ferrari.com/en-EN/museums/game-changers

If you are looking to buy or sell a Ferrari then take a look at our Ferrari-exclusive website right here: https://www.ferrarimotorcarsales.com/home/home

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The very first Porsche 911 was revealed at the Frankfurt IAA Motor Show in 1963, so celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2023.

It was actually in September of 1963 that it first appeared and then went on sale in 1964, as the successor in many ways to the 356. It was originally named the 901 at the show but was to be renamed the 911 for its market launch later.

Since then, there have been seven generations of this classic sportscar model and its legacy will be celebrated throughout the year at events and shows.

Pronounced "nine eleven" it is a luxury sports car that was produced until 1989. It was then replaced by a modified version internally called the Porsche 964 but still sold as a 911, as are all current models.

Its original 901 name was its internal project number but was later changed after protests from French car maker Peugeot. They claimed to have exclusive rights in France to car models consisting of three digits with a zero in the middle. Porsche, therefore, decided to rename the car the 911 for sale in all countries when it went on sale in late 1964.

The 911 was a rear-engined and air-cooled car which was modified by private and factory teams for racing and other forms of automotive competition. The original 911 series is often referred to as the most successful competition car if all variations are included, with the 911 derived 935 winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans and many other major sports car races.

Following on from the Porsche 356, the 911 was much more powerful, larger, and more comfortable. As it reaches its official 60th anniversary later this year, we salute this timeless classic that was designed by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche and Erwin Komenda.

If you are looking to buy a Porsche then take a look at our Porsche-exclusive website right here for a great selection of models: https://www.porschemotorcarsales.com/home/

To list your stock with us then please contact Classic Motors For Sale for some great advertising and marketing offers at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

In most of the northern hemisphere winter is fast approaching, so thoughts now start to turn to the all-important winter storage of our classic cars. Today, we take a look at some of the essential points to consider when storing your vehicle and also showcase one of the leading dedicated classic car storage facilities in central London, this being London Car Store, which is the only car storage facility actually located in central London.

Firstly, Cleaning Your Car fully inside and out, including a wash, polish and wax, is an essential starting point. Make sure there is no rubbish or forgotten food hidden away anywhere too. After cleaning, a short run for just 10 minutes will ensure all brake discs are dry.

Next, Wheels and Tyres need inspection so remove and clean all wheel nuts and ensure they are greased with a good anti-seize on the threads before putting them back on. For the tyres, clean out any debris and add an extra 10 psi, unless you can store the car using axle stands – but remember to check tyre pressure and reduce it should you wish to take the car out for a drive.

Moving on, Fuel Levels are essential so fill the fuel tank with premium-grade fuel to avoid any condensation and, if you need to, add some fuel stabiliser to help. Also, remember to fill your anti-freeze with liquid at the right concentration.

Parking can be overlooked, so be sure to park your vehicle with the bonnet facing out, to enable easy access to the battery in particular. Leave the handbrake off and the car in gear (or in "Park" if an automatic) as this will prevent brakes from seizing.

Battery Care is essential although there is no need to remove the battery during winter storage, but it should be maintained and charged. We recommend using a good battery conditioner & charger for this purpose. Keeping windscreen wipers slightly off the glass is also a good idea, to prevent the rubber from perishing.

Next, Preventing Moisture and allowing Air Circulation is essential so it's a good idea to leave the driver's window slightly open, just enough to allow a little finger through but no more, as this will allow a small air flow in the car. Using a dehumidifier is also an option but be sure it is not set too high, as this will draw all moisture from everything.

Finally, it is time to Cover Your Car, so prior to covering it might be useful to put a bung of some kind in the exhaust and cover air intakes. Your actual car cover should not be 100% waterproof so it's best to invest in a semi-tailored breathable cover of some kind. For added security and safety, ensure all garage windows are covered, no garage door remote is left in the car, and you have valid insurance even during these storage months.

During the winter months, keep an eye on your car at least every 30 days. Check the battery conditioner, look over the vehicle for any unwanted additions, look in the boot, under the bonnet, check tyre pressures. Keep an eye open for any oil leaks, make sure that no water or fuel is leaking into the engine oil, and get in and pump the brakes every week or so.

It's not recommended to start up the engine and keep it running for a while during storage but, if there is a nice day, take the car out for a short run, just to warm everything up. However, be sure to check everything has been connected (or disconnected where necessary) before going out and follow the storage steps again on return.

All sounds a lot to do, doesn't it? However, help is at hand if you don't want the hassle yourself. There are many excellent car storage providers out there and, if you are in or near central London, we can strongly recommend the services of London Car Store, a secure car and motorcycle storage facility right in the heart of the capital.

Just five minutes' walk from Marble Arch tube station and the Paddington mainline, they offer an underground storage location that has no public access and has a 24-hour monitored alarm system linked directly to the Metropolitan Police Service. On weekdays, the facility is also fully manned for the full duration of their business hours.

London Car Store will clean your car, complete a thorough check, and then cover it with static dust sheets (unless you wish to use your own cover). If you bring your car in with its battery conditioner they'll ensure it remains in perfect condition throughout, if you don't have one then they have industry-respected CTEK battery conditioners available for purchase.

During storage they will also check the oil, washer and tyre pressures at no extra cost – it's all part of the service – with a minimum storage period of just one month.

Give them a call if you have any questions or require information on 020 7262 8887 or check out their website at www.londoncarstore.com

This museum in Stuttgart has over 1,500 exhibits on show and is spread over nine levels, covering a floor space of 16,500 m². The history of Mercedes-Benz is in full view here from the very first patented car in the world to the most recent hydrogen vehicle.

Invented by Carl Benz in 1886, the museum celebrates all that the iconic brand stands for; the history, stories, technology and its place in popular culture. Over 160 vehicles of all types form the main centrepiece of the museum, ranging from some of the oldest vehicles ever made to legendary racing cars and vehicles of the future.

These vehicles, together with all of the other exhibits, form a permanent exhibition located in twelve different rooms that can be covered in group or private tours.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm, with the ticket office closing at 5 pm – the museum is closed on Mondays and opening hours may vary during holiday periods.

At just 12 Euros for a regular day ticket, the museum offers great value, with reduced tickets also available for 6 Euros and free entry for children up to and including the age of 12.

There are special events and exhibitions organised during the year, guided tours, and activities for kids, so you are guaranteed a great day out.

With so many vehicles on display, here we highlight just a small selection of the legends that you will see during your visit.

The 40 PS Mercedes Simplex is the oldest Mercedes still in existence and was the successor to the 35 PS Mercedes designed by Wilhelm Maybach, which was the world's first car of the modern age. It was given the "Simplex" name due to the ease with which it handled and had a top speed of 50 mph from its 4-cylinder engine.

The 75 PS Mercedes was the first series model and was built between 1907 and 1911, with a variety of different bodies. The one shown here is an open tourer (phaeton) that featured two rows of seats. Another 4-cylinder engine which was capable of reaching a top speed of 59 mph.

At the start of the 50s, we saw the release of the Mercedes-Benz 300 S, a top-of-the-range and very sporty model. Available as a coupe, convertible and roadster it had 6 cylinders and a top speed of 108 mph, with only 560 units produced.

In 1954, the 300 SL production sports car came out. This iconic vehicle soon became known as the Gullwing because of its very characteristic upward-opening doors. With a top speed of 162 mph, it became the dream car of the 1950s and was produced from 1954 to 1957.

And finally, moving into the mid-60s, we can see the Mercedes-Benz 230 SL, which was the world's first sports car with a sturdy passenger cell and crumple zones - and also its concaved removable hardtop. Due to this appearance, it soon became known as the Pagoda, a reference to Asian temples of the same name and their roof shape.19831 units were produced between 1963 and 1967 and the 230 SL was capable of reaching a speed of 124 mph.

The Mercedes-Benz Museum Stuttgart is well worth a visit and you can read all about it here on their official website: https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/art-and-culture/museum/

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2022 will see the 60th birthday of possibly the most famous car in the world, the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO. With only 39 models built, the 250 GTO was destined for greatness, going on to win races with its high performance and admiration for its stunning looks. So, as we wish a happy 60th to such a classic in 2022, we thought it only right to mention a few other notable milestones from both 1952 and 1962.

In 1952, three classics were born that will celebrate 70 year anniversaries in 2022. Firstly, the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, now with the option of a four-speed automatic gearbox as opposed to only manual. It was launched as a successor to the earlier Dawn and Bentley MkVI models.

The Bentley Continental R, with its sleek body designed by HJ Mulliner, also appeared in 1952. This very stylish classic was fitted with a manual gearbox in what was a real supercar of the day, but an automatic version was also available. High-speed cruising was the key feature of this beauty, with 100mph attainable even with four occupants.

Completing a trio of Platinum jubilee cars is the Austin A30. This model was initially manufactured as a four-door version in 1952, with two-door and Countryman estate versions following soon after. With a new A-series engine, this A30 was certainly a more visually appealing model than earlier Austin vehicles. This small family car was released as a competitor to the Morris Minor.

As we move into the 60s, 1962 saw the birth of another four classics that will reach their Diamond anniversary in 2022, beginning with the MGB Roadster. For many years the MGB was the best-selling sports car in the world, with production continuing right up until the early 1980s. The Roadster released in 1962 was bigger and more comfortable than the previous MGA, and also quicker. The MGB was only manufactured as a Roadster initially, with another three years passing before a closed GT coupe version became available.

The Triumph Spitfire is another that turns 60 in 2022. This small sports car was built to take on the MG Midget, and with its spacious interior and more powerful engine, it soon became a very popular model, still selling well into the early 80s.

How could we compile a list of 60-year-olds and not mention this one, the iconic AC Cobra? With a Ford V8 engine installed, the first AC Cobra was manufactured in January 1962, with later models having a slightly larger engine capacity. This Carol Shelby classic had amazing performance and would go on to write its own history on the road and race track.

Completing our 60th birthday honours list is the Alfa Romeo Giulia. This early 60s saloon sold over 800,000 models during a 10-year production life. With its smart looks and manual five-speed gearbox, the Giulia was a very agile mover, despite being aimed at the family market.

So there we have a shortlist of Platinum and Diamond anniversary classics to celebrate in 2022, although they still have a few years to go before reaching the century mark of 100 years! One final raise of the glass is in order for the Amilcar C4, which reaches this remarkable milestone in 2022, a car that first appeared was back in 1922 in the days of the cyclecar market!

• • Historics Auctioneers announces exclusive 100-car sale at The London Classic Car Show on Saturday, 25^th February 2023

• • Early entry of a 550bhp 2016 AC Cobra 427-SC by Kirkham sets the adrenaline-fuelled tempo  

Historics Auctioneers is starting 2023 in style with an exclusive sale at The London Classic Car Show on Saturday, 25^th February 2023, celebrating the return of the showcase event to the capital after a three-year absence with a glittering array of must-see features and attractions.

As Official Auction Partner to this, the capital’s premier classic car event at Olympia, West London on 24-26^th February, Historics - known for its varied and eclectic auction consignments - will offer for sale 100 fine classic and collector cars at the heart of the venue that’s been steeped in motoring history for more than a century.

The addition of the London Classic Car Show to Historics’ yearly schedule will be reflected in a carefully-curated entry appealing to the breadth of classic car enthusiasts and collectors.

An early sale entry, a mighty and sparingly-used 2016 AC Cobra 427-SC by the famed USA specialist Kirkham Motorsports - featuring an FIA-correct hand-rolled alloy body, 7-litre powerhouse with 550bhp underfoot - sets the hair-raising tempo to what is sure to be an adrenalin-fuelled sale.

The official show partnership and auction mark a further step-up in Historics’ increasing profile, coming six months after adding Bicester Heritage to its auction roster that also includes Ascot Racecourse, Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands and Windsorview Lakes Berkshire.

Commenting for Historics, CEO Mark Perkins, remarked:  “We are delighted to sign the exclusive agreement with The London Classic Car Show.  Having established and grown to become the South of England’s premier classic car auction specialists, it’s a natural extension to now bring Historics’ unique auction flavour to London and to the legion of enthusiasts in the capital and beyond.”

Martin Clark, Content Director, Cars, at show organiser Brand Events, enthused: “It’s great to be back at Olympia and to welcome Historics as our new Official Auction Partner.

“A live, public auction never fails to create an electric atmosphere and I’m sure all those coming to London will be spellbound as the bidding starts – even more so if they are tempted to raise an arm! Either way, we are delighted that Historics will be part of our fantastic show and providing us all with even more amazing cars from former golden eras to savour… if not buy.” 

Entries are now invited....

With capacity limited to 100 Lots, Historics is encouraging early consignment to The London Classic Car Show Sale on 01753 639170, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  For further news on the sale, and to pre-register to bid, see www.historics.co.uk and follow Historics on social media.