Every January, classic car collectors and lovers alike visit the Valley to partake in a world-renowned series of events that focus on the buying and selling of some of the most exclusive and expensive classic, collector, exotic and specialty automobiles on the planet. Due to its location on the calendar, Arizona Car Week not only sets the bar for the marketplace for the upcoming calendar year, but between all its unique events, allows anybody with a passion for great cars to see and experience some of history’s most exciting and memorable automobiles up close and personal.
Once again this year, Darin Roberge, president of Motorwerks Marketing and host of Sports Car Market Magazine’s Buy, Sell, Hold Podcast and YouTube show, selects and discusses 10 of Arizona Car Week 2024’s most fabulous…
Photo courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
1965 Lamborghini 350 GT (RM Sotheby’s)
One of just 80 ultra lightweight, aluminum bodied “Superleggera” examples produced, this Carrozzeria Touring designed 1965 Lamborghini 350 GT is not only the first sportscar model from Lamborghini (they previously made tractors) but it is also believed to be the only example finished in beautiful Blu Notte over Tobacco leather. Its chassis, engine and gearbox numbers all match those described on a copy of the Lamborghini Certificate of Original Configuration, showing that it remains very much the automobile that it was when delivered in 1965 to its first Italian owner. Coming from a series of long-term enthusiast caretakers, it was recently the recipient of an expert restoration and then shown at the 2016 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, where it won First in Class.
Why it’s fabulous:
Having the first of something always adds an air of exclusivity (and stay tuned because this year’s list has more of these). Not just for that, but this (and all 350 and subsequent 400 GTs) represent a fascinating point in the history of Lamborghini. Sure, the 350 GT is the inception point, but it’s also due to the fact that for many it’s a somewhat unexpected entry for a company like Lamborghini into the world of high performance sportscars. When we traditionally think of the marque, our minds gravitate towards exotic speed machines like the Miura, Countach, Diablo or Aventador. However, wonderfully built, well-engineered and fast grand touring machines like the 350 GT were what Ferruccio Lamborghini originally envisioned and for me, the 350 GT remains the best Lamborghini of all time. It’s undeniably beautifully styled, but yet remains under the radar and underappreciated for many, considering what it’s comparable to. Also, I’ve yet to sit in a Lamborghini (or for that matter, really anything else) that gives me the same degree of awe that the interior of the 350 GT does. Perfectly placed (probably up for debate), slightly flexible and thoroughly balanced thin wooden steering wheel, fabulous leather work, delicate metal accents, satisfying switches and fantastic art deco inspired gauges (in my opinion, the most beautiful in any car, ever), surrounded by a greenhouse’s worth of just slightly filtered sunlight. Easily, one of the greatest places to sit in all of automotive history.
Register to bid with RM Sotheby’s by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
1965 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe (RM Sotheby’s)
Endlessly synonymous with Mr. James Bond 007 himself, this 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe is one of just 193 left-hand-drive examples built. It retains its matching-numbers engine, which has been upgraded to the more powerful 4.2-liter specification and comes correctly finished in one of the model’s most definitive color schemes: Silver Birch over Red. No stranger to the Hollywood experience, this example was featured in the Leonardo DiCaprio movie, Catch Me If You Can, and its short chain of custody, includes a four-decade period of fastidious ownership by successful fashion photographer Theo Gruttman. It benefits from consistent service attention by Pennsylvania-based Aston specialist Steel Wings.
Why it’s fabulous:
Simply put, the Aston DB5 is one of the most iconic automobiles of all time. There are very few cars that kick imaginations into overdrive the same way that these do. Especially in this color. Of course, everybody turns into James Bond the minute they get behind the wheel of one of these and that’s what I think makes this car even that much more fun. You can pretend to be DiCaprio, pretending to be Frank Abagnale (who many called the James Bond of the sky), who was pretending to be James Bond, while also pretending to be an airline pilot. Then you’ve got a well-known fashion photographer running around, assumingly doing all kinds of fabulous things with this car for 40 years to top it all off. This is just way too much good stuff (and that’s not even taking into account how cool and fun to drive these cars are in the first place – and this one is in rare and ultra-convenient left-hand drive!). All DB5s check a ton of boxes, but this one, a lot more than most. If cars could talk…
Register to bid with RM Sotheby’s by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
The 1st Shelby Cobra 289 (RM Sotheby’s)
Offered from just its third owner since its birth in 1963, the example offered here is the first 289 Cobra produced by American automotive and racing legend Carroll Shelby. Remarkably preserved with original features and documentation, it is also likely the most obsessively documented Cobra on the planet. Featured in nearly every significant catalogue of Shelby marque history, previous ownership includes preeminent Shelby collector Lynn Park. Currently indicating just shy of 27,200 miles at time of cataloguing and still powered by its numbers-matching 289 engine, it is an incredible prize of distinct, irreproachable significance.
Why it’s fabulous:
Although, the big block 427 cars tend to get most of the glory, the 289 cars are arguably the best all-around Cobras ever built. This is something that we debate on Sports Car Market Magazine’s Buy, Sell, Hold a lot and it seems that a large portion of the world is finally starting to come around to this fact as prices for these fantastic machines now command over $1 million. More delicate in appearance, definitely more usable on normal roads and a whole lot easier to live with, these are purely excellent cars. Add in the prominence demonstrated by its incredible documentation and expert ownership chain, plus the immediate and critical collectability of this car being the first of the bloodline and you’ve got a recipe for something very special. This example from RM Sotheby’s represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans not only of Ford and Shelby, but American automotive history across the board. If you want it, you better get it. If its history indicates anything, it’s probably not going to resurface again anytime soon.
Register to bid with RM Sotheby’s by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Worldwide Auctioneers
1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster (Worldwide Auctioneers)
This highly desirable 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster is a late model “big brake” example equipped from the factory and is one of only 250 produced for the model year. Complete with numbers-matching engine, gearbox and rear end, it shimmers in beautiful factory DB40 Black over factory 1088 Red interior. Provenance includes 35 years of single enthusiast ownership and extensive documentation via original window sticker, dealer invoice, copy of its MB Data Card, previous titles and registrations and restoration invoices.
Why it’s fabulous:
Another ever-present source of friction on Buy, Sell, Hold is the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing versus Roadster debate. Although I certainly understand the exotic appeal of the Gullwing doors and the more sporting approach that it presents, for me it’s still a no-brainer. Roadsters are just better driving, better engineered cars. I will take a late-production example over its likely more iconic cousin every time, and if you’re going to go this route, this is the type of car you want to find. Low production, numbers matching, jaw-dropping color combination, documentation, long-term ownership and all the benefits of the improvements and enhancements gifted from the factory towards the end of the 300SL’s production run. If we’re talking Mercedes-Benz, it doesn’t get any better than this.
Register to bid with Worldwide Auctioneers by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Bonhams
1958 Ferrari 250 GT Ellena (Bonhams)
Delivered new to New York City and loaded with unique technical specifications, this 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe with exotic Ellena Coachwork is one of the finest examples of the model in existence. Powered by a Triple Weber fed, 240 horsepower 2,953cc SOHC V12 and mated to a four-speed gearbox, it presents brilliantly in striking colors and comes complete with Ferrari Classiche Red Book and a Platinum Level Score at Cavallino. An undoubted highlight on 2023’s lawn, it was an easy class winner at last year’s installment of the Arizona Concours d’Elegance.
Why it’s fabulous:
It’s really hard to dispute the beauty of a 250 GT Ellena. It’s simply one of softest, most graceful designs in Ferrari history. It also represents somewhat of a change in the trajectory of Ferrari at the time. Outsourced away from previous preferred design firms to father and son/father’s business partner and later, father’s ex-business partner/former owner’s (the former owning father)’s current son-in-law team of Boano and Ellena, the cars were split between the two, with Boano creating the lions share before his departure with his son and Ellena (the father’s current son-in-law) finishing up the run. Although, Boano’s cars were a little more muscular, most examples were slightly less styled and the outstanding color combination of stunning Azzurro Metallizzato over Pelle Rossa leather shown on this particular Ellena designed example accentuate those little things brilliantly. Point blank, this car is an absolute showstopper, has proven this on Concours lawns across the world and is easily one of the most beautiful Ferraris on offer anywhere on the planet right now.
Register to bid with Bonhams by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Bonhams
1970 Maserati Ghibli Spider (Bonhams)
This 1970 Maserati Ghibli is one of only 82 4.7-liter Ghiblis produced. Featuring its matching-numbers 310 horsepower V8 engine with desirable five-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, power steering and four-wheel disc brakes, it is documented with a Maserati Classiche Certificate. Beautifully presented in light metallic blue over black Connolly hides, it includes factory hard top, sets of both Campagnolo alloy and Borranis wire wheels, original books and numerous other hard to source spare parts.
Why it’s fabulous:
This rare and desirable Maserati is certainly grand touring royalty and is likely the best all-around “Arizona driving experience” type car available anywhere during this years car week. These are extremely capable too. Performing right along supercar icons of the era like the Ferrari Daytona, DeTomaso Pantera, etc., Ghiblis are fast, solid cars with good suspension and functional power steering, but add significant practicality and refinement in areas where other competitors lack. Take the top down, rev up the glorious 300 horsepower Italian V8 engine, turn on the A/C (important here!), throw it in gear and eat up any road that Arizona has to offer with ease. These are glorious cars in every trim, but extra, extra special as Spiders. The perfect car to go out and explore State 48 in style.
Register to bid with Bonhams by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Barrett-Jackson
Nicolas Cage’s 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda (Barrett-Jackson)
This 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda is powered by a 426/425hp HEMI engine paired with a four-speed transmission and a Super Track Pak Dana axle with 4.10 gears. It has been visually inspected and certified by top Mopar documentation authority Galen Govier as a matching-numbers car and drivetrain. The engine and transmission were rebuilt and restored and the car has the correct factory markings, stampings, numbers and dated components. This ‘Cuda is registered and documented with the Chrysler Registry to be No. 128 of the 284 1970 HEMI ‘Cudas built with four-speed transmissions. The vehicle comes with three large binders of extensive documentation, including the inspection and certification report of the engine and transmission by Mopar expert Frank Badalson, as well as visual and hands-on inspection reports by Galen Govier. The provenance of this car includes ownership by Academy Award-winning actor Nicolas Cage.
Why it’s fabulous:
These pony-sized early 70’s Challengers and ‘Cudas are the top of the heap for Mopar muscle and this excellent example demonstrates exactly why. Perfectly spec’d with the Super Track Pak, four-speed Pistol Grip shifter and, of course, the 425 horsepower HEMI engine, it’s low production and high quality, concours-level restoration with documentation make this car an absolute rock star. The celebrity connection doesn’t hurt here either and although known and notable car connoisseur Cage may be more professionally aligned with Pepper Grey 1967 Shelby GT500 restomods (Gone in 60 Seconds) or B9 Blue 1969 Dodge Charger R/T 440s (Drive Angry), this car certainly proves that his excellent taste in cars didn’t just reside on the silver screen, as this TX9 Black Velvet 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda is certainly just as great.
Register to bid with Barrett-Jackson by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Barrett-Jackson Auctions
1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 (Barrett-Jackson)
This 1965 Shelby GT350 stands as one example from the limited production of 562 units for its model year and notably, one of the final eight crafted in 1965. It is known as the “Triple Nickel” within the esteemed Shelby community and was dubbed by Ric Kopek as “a fistful of nickels” because of its distinctive “555” Shelby serial number. Extensive documentation under fastidious stewardship throughout its life includes original Shelby invoices, SAAC ownership history, SAAC VIN verification, prior ownership documents, dealership order request to Shelby and other various receipts, period photos and owner correspondence. Power comes from its legendary K-code 289ci Hi-Po engine with high-rise aluminum manifold and finned Cobra valve covers, paired with an aluminum T10 four-speed manual transmission featuring a NOS shifter and it’s accompanied by all the authentic Shelby components delivered from the factory. This incredible piece of American automotive history displays just 39,170 actual miles.
Why it’s fabulous:
I’ve said it before, and I’m going to keep saying it. The 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 is the greatest American road car of all time. They are everything that is so rambunctious and fun about a loud, aggressive muscle car but with more refined handling that could compete with almost anything Europe had to offer at the time. All first year GT350s are special, special cars and this example is a cut above for several reasons. Shelby was an interesting company that had lots of little quirks to it and the “Triple Nickel” designation that this car received is right in line with all of that charm. Ownership history also really matters with these cars and all the right people have had their hands on this car with the documentation to prove it. Being the custodian of one of the initial 562 Shelby Mustangs puts you in a very exclusive club and you’d be hard pressed to find a more interesting means of entry than this one.
Register to bid with Barrett-Jackson by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Barrett-Jackson Auctions
1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (Barrett-Jackson)
This 1969 Chevrolet Camaro is No. 9 of 69 ZL1s produced in 1969. This well-documented car was originally delivered to Fred Gibb Chevrolet, the dealer that spearheaded the original concept of an all-aluminum engine ZL1 Camaro. Having been through a no-expense-spared restoration, this ZL1 Camaro is “one of the finest in existence,” exactly as stated in the accompanying Cuneen Report by Ed Cuneen of marque experts COPO Connection. Only the highest-quality components were used in this restoration with a strong emphasis on New Old Stock pieces. Included with this car is a collection of historical documentation, including the Dealer Shippers copy of the original Window Sticker, the customer’s copy of the original Bill of Sale and a copy of the Chevrolet MSO.
Why it’s fabulous:
Ford had Shelby, Mopar had the HEMI and Chevrolet had this. I think it’s probably safe to say that 1969 is the premier year for the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro. With its extremely low production numbers, exotic engine and neck breaking performance, the ZL1 is without a doubt the most important example from this banner year. General Motors did kind of a weird thing in the 1960’s with cars like this. Technically, models like the ZL1, COPO, etc. were available as option packages through dealers and as such were covered by General Motors factory warranties, but make no mistake, these were street legal race cars and you kind of had to know somebody in order to get your hands on one. Meaning, they were there, but GM deliberately went out of their way to make sure that you didn’t know about them unless they wanted you to and as such, if we’re talking exclusivity, nothing else compared. Couple in the fact that this was where Chevrolet debuted its aluminum 427-cubic-in., 430 horsepower V8 (which in reality was closer to 500 horsepower) that later appeared in the legendary Corvette L88 and there was no better General Motors pony car. Sure, you see a million Camaros at every car show, but with just 69 to ever leave the factory, you’re not likely to ever see one of these. This is the one that all others wish they could be.
Register to bid with Barrett-Jackson by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Motorsport Auction Group
1959 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible (MAG Auctions)
This legendary 1959 Cadilac Series 62 Convertible is the recipient of a complete restoration to original condition. Featuring a correct 390ci V8 engine matched with an automatic transmission, options include factory A/C, factory power steering, power brakes, power windows and power seats. Shown in fantastic pink, it is an excellent example of one of America’s all-time most iconic automotive designs.
Why it’s fabulous:
It’s a pink 1959 Cadillac Convertible. It’s the biggest, loudest, most brash thing that GM put out during the biggest, loudest, most brash era of automotive design in American history. Does it get any more fabulous than this?
Register to bid with MAG Auctions by clicking here.