1958 Aston Martin DB mark III Drophead coupe

Photo Credit: Darin Schnabel ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Darin Schnabel ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions

178 bhp (SAE), 2,922 cc DBA inline DOHC six-cylinder engine, dual SU carburetors, twin exhaust system, synchronized four-speed manual gearbox, Laycock de Normanville overdrive, independent front suspension with trailing link, coil springs and Armstrong lever dampers, live Salisbury rear axle located by trailing links and transverse Panhard rod, and hydraulic front disc, “Alfin” rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 99"

- Very rare – one of only 84 Drophead Coupes built
- The ultimate iteration of the DB2, the first true postwar Aston Martin
- A well-maintained older restoration; showing just under 30,400 miles 
- Complete with a copy of the original Aston Martin build record

The landmark DB2, considered by many marque enthusiasts to be the first true postwar Aston Martin model, was introduced in May 1950. The ultimate and most highly-refined variant, the DB Mark III (the “2/4” designation was eventually dropped) was introduced in March 1957 and produced in both Fixed-Head and open Drophead Coupe form through July 1959, when it was ultimately succeeded by the all-new DB4, which was initially advertised by its manufacturer as “a companion to the DB Mark III.”

Polish-born Aston Martin engineer Tadek Marek thoroughly revised the existing six-cylinder W.O. Bentley/Lagonda engine design, with output rising to 162 bhp or 178 bhp with the optional twin exhaust system. Front disc brakes supplemented “Alfin” finned aluminum rear drum brakes, with the upgrade optional on the first 100 DB Mark IIIs produced and standard equipment on the ultimate Mark IIIB of 1958-1959. 

Styling and body fittings were updated, most notably with a revised grille opening inspired by the famed DB3S sports racer of 1953 to 1956. The new grille of the DB Mark III influenced Aston Martin styling for many years to follow, with this now-iconic basic design cue providing unmistakable brand continuity and essentially remaining in effect through the V-8 models of the late 1980s. Among the many other updates of the Mark III, a revised instrument panel designed by Frank Feeley echoed the grille’s shape and now relocated the gauges directly in front of the driver. 

In popular culture, while the later DB5 is most often associated with Her Majesty’s Secret Agent James Bond, Ian Fleming’s original novel Goldfinger actually had 007 driving a DB Mark III. Only 551 examples of the DB Mark III were produced during a relatively brief production run spanning 1957 and 1959, including one purpose-built competition model. Of those few cars though, only 84 were the elegant and sporting Drophead Coupe variant. With their Feltham-era, hand-built quality and legendary road-ability, the cars continue to be highly coveted today. 

According to a copy of its original Aston Martin production record, this handsomely presented original right-hand drive 1958 DB Mark III Drophead Coupe was delivered new to its first owner, Mr. Alfred W. McAlphine, on September 29, 1958. It was originally finished in Deep Carriage Green and well equipped with such desirable “Non-Standard Equipment” as Laycock de Normanville overdrive, a twin exhaust system (good for an approximate 10 percent power gain) and a wood-rimmed DB3S-type steering wheel. Following delivery to its original owner, Aston Martin Works Service maintained the car, and factory records list the work that was performed to the car in 1963, 1964 and finally on January 21, 1969, with only 1,339 recorded miles. 

Photo Credit: Darin Schnabel ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Darin Schnabel ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions

In 2008 and at a recorded 30,184 miles, AM 300/3/1700 was inspected, serviced and received paintwork from Aston Workshop, the UK-based authorized Aston Martin service center. Today, the odometer of AM 300/3/1700 shows only about 30,400 miles. The car’s most recent private owners were the family of Bernie Madoff. As presented in its factory-correct Deep Carriage Green finish and now trimmed in tan leather upholstery, the car features the matching-numbers DBA six-cylinder engine. 

A recent inspection confirms that as presented the car is a slightly older restoration that has held up very well and also performed well on a recent road test. The bodywork, finish and brightwork present well, and the engine and engine compartment are commensurate with the car’s limited mileage and careful maintenance over the years. The tan interior upholstery appears to be quite new and bears few obvious signs of wear, other than some scuffing on the door sills. The wire-spoke wheels are shod in period-style and virtually new 6.00X16 Michelin “Sport Pilote” X tires. A newer and very nice black convertible top and matching boot, as well as a jack, a properly mounted wheel hammer and a tool kit, round out the package. 

The DB Mark III was the ultimate development of the groundbreaking DB2, which saw Aston Martin develop from a small specialist manufacturer to a marque of worldwide renown. The series provided the basis for Aston’s brilliant racing successes culminating in the 1959 World Sports Car Championship. Though marque connoisseurs have always appreciated them, demand for the DB Mark III has risen significantly in recent years. Its stature in today’s market is supported by its technical sophistication, excellent performance and eligibility for many of today’s most desirable vintage motoring events.

Source:http://www.rmauctions.com    

Villa d'Este

RM PRESENTS STUNNING SELECTION OF AUTOMOBILES DIRECTLY FROM THE BERTONE MUSEUM AT ITS CONCORSO D’ELEGANZA VILLA D’ESTE SALE  Villa d'Este

RM Auctions presents six automobiles from Bertone S.p.A at its debut sale at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, 21 May, 2011  Auction represents the first time the Bertone vehicles have been offered for sale on the public market  New consignments join an impressive roster of 30 of the world’s finest automobiles slated for the exclusive RM evening sale  LONDON (30 March, 2011) - RM Auctions, the world’s largest collector car auction house for quality automobiles, is pleased to announce that it has been chosen by the liquidators of the Bertone Museum to offer six motor cars and one-off design concepts from the celebrated Italian manufacturer and coachbuilder, Bertone. This stunning collection of cars is another fantastic addition to RM’s eagerly awaited debut sale at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, Italy, 21st May, 2011.  “RM is delighted to be aligned with the illustrious Bertone brand and truly honoured to have been selected to bring some of their most famous and extraordinary creations to the open market for the very first time. We look forward to providing our collector car expertise for the successful sale of these rolling works of art,” says Max Girardo, Managing Director, RM Europe.  Illustrating the craftsmanship and styling leadership of Ing. Nuccio Bertone and his firm, selected automobiles from the Bertone Collection that will feature in the upcoming RM sale include: the unconventional 1967 Lamborghini Marzal prototype, s/n 1001, driven by Prince Ranier and Princess Grace at the start of 1967 Monaco Grand Prix (Est. €1.000.000 - €1.800.000); the sensational 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero, s/n C/1160CPL, the first prototype of the mid-engined Stratos production supercar and the hugely successful rally car (Est. €1.000.000 - €1.800.000); and, the revolutionary 1963 Chevrolet Testudo, s/n 20927w207657, sporting an amazing and totally transparent one-piece windscreen and roof cover (Est. €500.000 - €800.000).  This magnificent collection of cars is completed with a 1974 Lamborghini Bravo, s/n NS46 01, an ultra low slung car with several styling cues from the Lamborghini Countach (Est. €150.000 - €220.000); a 1980 Lamborghini Athon, s/n S155/01, featuring clean, futuristic lines (Est. €150.000 - €220.000); and, an outlandish 1978 Lancia Sibilo, s/n S 12201, unveiled at the Turin Motor Show in April 1978 (Est. €60.000 – €100.000).  “These cars represent a highly significant slice of Bertone’s creative history, as well as a unique opportunity to purchase some of the best known and most influential dream cars ever built. This coupled with the fact that the upcoming auction represents the very first time that any of these six vehicles have been offered for sale on the public market, makes for a unique and very special ownership opportunity.We anticipate that they will be well received by the collector car world,” adds Girardo.  The exciting roster of Bertone automobiles joins a spectacular line-up of over 30 blue-chip automobiles consigned to the exclusive RM evening sale, which forms an official part of this year’s celebrated Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este weekend. With an average value per car approaching €1.000.000, the RM offering is considered one of the most spectacular collections of automobiles offered in recent auction history.  For full event details and a frequently updated car list, please visit www.rmauctions.com or call RM’s London office at +44 20 7851 7070.  Event Details: RM Auctions at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este  Sale date:  21 May, 2011 8:00pm – 11:00pm CET  Preview dates:  20 May, 2011 10:00am – 6:00pm CET 21 May, 2011 10:00am – 6:00pm CET  Location:  Spazio Villa Erba, Largo Luchino Visconti, 4 Cernobbio, Como, 22012, Italy Admission: Admission to the event requires the purchase of an official auction catalogue for €70. The catalogue admits two and must be presented at the entrance to the sale to be granted entry.  About RM Auctions  RM Auctions is the world's largest auction house for quality automobiles. With over three decades of experience in the collector car industry, RM's vertically integrated range of services, from restoration to private treaty sales, auctions, estate planning and financial services, coupled with an expert team of car specialists and international footprint, provide an unsurpassed level of service to the global collector car market. RM proudly holds four of the top five all-time records for the most expensive motor cars sold at auction. RM’s restoration division has achieved unprecedented accolades earning “Best of Show” honours at the world’s top concours events.   As you can see from this press release there are many good and rare vehicles on this auction, but I have chosen one which I believe deserves special attention.I`m represent to you  Lot 122 - 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder. Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Estimate: €1.600.000-€2.000.000 240 bhp, 2,953 cc overhead camshaft alloy block and head V-12 engine, four-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension via A-arms, coil springs and telescopic shocks, and rear suspension via live axle, semi-elliptic springs and hydraulic shocks, four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,600 mm (102.4") - Ex-Prince Alvise Hercolani and Wolfgang Seidel - Special features including hardtop and Superamerica side vents - Matching numbers and Ferrari Classiche certified - Extensive recent detailing work and motor and suspension rebuild - Shown at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance - Known provenance, documented by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini In the pantheon of desirable open Ferraris, the 250 GT California Spyder, in both long- and short-wheelbase form, stands head and shoulders above the rest. It has all the elements Ferraristi look for: the perpetually desirable Colombo V-12, considerable rarity and a successful competition pedigree to match its sporting Pinin Farina lines. The California Spyder, in contrast to the luxurious custom-built 250 cabriolets that preceded it, was intended for the client in search of a fast, sparsely-equipped cabriolet Ferrari sports car, an open counterpart to the Tour de France berlinetta, perfect not only for spirited driving along the Pacific Coast or Cote d’Azur but also all-out racing. California Spyder production began in 1958, and some 11 examples had been built by the time it was announced as a separate model in December 1958. One California Spyder was entered by N.A.R.T. at Sebring early in 1959 and driven by Richie Ginther and Howard Hively. It finished ninth overall (behind four Testa Rossas and four Porsche RSKs) and won the GT class. Le Mans in 1959 conclusively demonstrated the performance of the California Spyder as the N.A.R.T.-entered, alloy-bodied car driven by Bob Grossman and Fernand Tavano finished fifth overall. Chassis no. 1307 GT The spectacular Ferrari offered here is the twenty-third of the total 50 long-wheelbase California Spyders built and is unique among them for several desirable and distinctive features, including the unusual Superamerica-style front fender vents and an insert air intake on the hood. Delivered on 27 March, 1959 to Prince Alvise Hercolani of Bologna, its certificate of origin was issued by Ferrari on 3 April, 1959. Hercolani retained 1307 GT for about six months, selling it to the racing driver and car dealer Wolfgang Seidel in October 1959. In fact, Seidel drove the car to the V Grand Prix de Bruxelles in Belgium, as pictured in Jean-Paul Delsaux’s book Les Grand Prix de Bruxelles. Seidel in turn sold the car in 1961 to the car’s third owner, Rolf Helm of Germany, before it was acquired by the fourth owner, William Morgan of Phoenix, Arizona. Morgan, who at the time lived in Wiesbaden, drove 1307 GT to Marseille, then put it on a boat to Corsica where he spent a two-week vacation with his wife. From there, the car boarded a boat for Genova before Morgan drove it to Modena. Mr. Morgan would own the car for several more years. It was serviced at the factory in September 1963 and shipped to Pleasant Hills, California in 1965, as Morgan had since relocated back to the United States. 1307 GT was finally sold on 22 September, 1966 to Mr. Edwin K. Niles, an attorney from California. The car then passed through two other known owners before it was acquired by the 29-year-old Jim Swartout, who would own the car for the next 30 years. In 1999, next owner Jonas Liden of Sweden commissioned a full restoration at Carrozzeria Autosport, Bacchelli & Villa in Bastiglia, Italy. Following a showing at the Ferrari Owners Club UK National Concours in 2001, the current owner acquired the car in 2003. Recent history After participating in the Texas 1000 and New England 1000, the car was stripped down to bare metal and refinished in a very attractive deep blue, the way it was during Seidel’s ownership. In fact, the owner believes the attractive silver hardtop was modified and adapted to this car during Wolfgang Seidel’s ownership. In addition to being shown at Meadow Brook in 2005, the car was also displayed at the 58th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in the special California Spyder category. As presented, it retains its original, matching-numbers type 128 D engine. Most recently, the owner invested an additional $115,000 to bring the car to the Platinum Award-level standards mandated by the Ferrari Club of America. To that end, a complete motor and suspension rebuild were carried out by noted marque specialist Greg Jones. The convertible top and bows were restored, and the entire car was detailed appropriately to Platinum standards. As such, everything from restoring the instruments to fitting the correct inside mirror and replacing the exhaust tips was necessary. Furthermore, the side vents, which at some point were replaced by California Spyder side vents, were replaced with the correct 410 Superamerica pieces. This exhaustive work has been documented with bills, receipts and photographs and, most importantly, was rewarded with certification by Ferrari Classiche, confirming the car is presented precisely the way it left the factory. 1307 GT is unique in several important respects. Most apparent is the switch box placed over the driveshaft tunnel just behind the shift lever. It contains the ignition switch and other controls which normally would be mounted on and below the dashboard and instrument panel, giving taller drivers more leg and knee room. As mentioned, 1307 GT also has distinctive Superamerica-style front fender vents formed from bright-finished aluminium. Fitted from new with the desirable and more reliable twin Marelli distributors, its three Weber carburettors breathe through factory-fitted velocity stacks and are contained within a cold air box, both highly desirable performance options fitted to only a few California Spyders. As a long-wheelbase example, the trim, low lines of its topless coachwork are elegantly balanced by the placement of its wheels and tyres. The overall effect is long, low, sleek and decidedly sporting. The California Spyder is as close as Ferrari came to building a sports car since the early Barchettas, and only it and the later 275 GTB/4 N.A.R.T. Spyders have the elemental high-speed, open-air attitude that sets these cars apart from their more common cabriolet counterparts. 1307 GT is distinctive among even these rare and highly prized automobiles, the ideal mount for a variety of tours and events, or even, in the tradition of the late Bob Grossman, a competitive entry in the many historic racing and Ferrari club events where its participation would be welcomed. Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Photo Credit: Shooterz.biz ©2011 Courtesy of RM Auctions Source: http://www.rmauctions.com

2011 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix

There is so much to cover when it comes to the Grand Prix. Here is a quick list of facts about our one-of-a-kind event:

Porsche Honored as Marque – Each year the PVGP selects a marque, or car manufacturer to honor. In 2011 Porsche will be recognized as the marque. Schenley Park will be the focus of activities consisting of a parade and a dedicated tent for all participants.

Spotlight on the Cars of Carroll Shelby – The PVGP rejuvinated the Spotlight Car Show in 2009 when VW was recognized for their contributions to the PVGP. Last year Corvette was the Spotlight in honor of PVGP volunteer Donna Mae Mims. In 2011 Carroll Shelby will be making their first appearance and we will welcome all Shelby cars; Cobras, Mustangs, GT350, GT500, GT-40, Daytona Coupes, even Shelby's Chargers, Vipers an other Dodge products.

29^th Anniversary – The PVGP is our nation’s longest running vintage race event, celebrating 29 consecutive years in 2011.

How it got started - There is an interesting story about how the event got started including the first meeting in a Shadyside garage in 1982. Many who attended the meeting are still with the Grand Prix today. The first event in 1983 was a 1-day race held on September 3^rd…the Grand Prix has now grown to a 10-day festival spanning two counties and 9 separate events.

Volunteers – There are nearly 1,000 individuals who volunteer each year to stage the Grand Prix. Race side job functions include corner workers, tow truck operators, timing/scoring officials, pit/paddock directors and food preparation. On the show side; volunteers direct traffic, empty trash, manage car shows, sell merchandise, take donations and direct the parade. The PVGP is the largest volunteer-based event in vintage racing. In 2010 our volunteers consumed 3 tons of ice, 300 cases of soft drinks and 600 cases of water.

One of a Kind – The PVGP is the nation’s only vintage race staged on public roads. 2.3 miles of Pittsburgh city streets in Schenley Park are closed over the July 23/24 weekend. Approximately 200 vintage cars are raced on two lane roads and bridges with stone walls, curbs and telephone poles. Just like this country’s first sports car racing was done in the 1950’s.

Charity – The PVGP has raised $2.75 million since 1983 for the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Valley School. Staff and families of these charities are an integral part of the PVGP volunteer staff. $150,000 was donated in 2010.

Ambassadors – To help put a face on the race’s charities Ambassadors from each charity are selected each year and their stories help to define what each charity does and how the PVGP donations help individuals.

Course Set-up – The 2.33 mile race course that winds through Schenley Park public streets has 22 turns and is set-up and torn down in just a few days by volunteers. In the construction of the temporary track the following materials are required: 243 tons of concrete Jersey barriers, 2 miles of snow fence with 1300 fence posts, 1,700 hay bales and 4,000 zip-ties.

Free Event – Since the PVGP is held on city streets amid a 456 acre public park there are no gates or admission fees charged. Race Week attendance is estimated at a quarter million people with over 200,000 attending the Schenley Park weekend…making it our country’s  largest vintage racing spectator event.

Cars – Approximately 200 vintage cars race at Schenley Park each year. With an average value of $50,000 per race car that equates to over $10 million on the track!. Many are unusual and rare. Some examples include a $2 million dollar 1953 C-Type Jaguar with European racing provenance and several 1930’s Alfa Romeo 6C racers, a 1929 Ardent Alligator and several Bugatti’s from the 1920’s.

  

Historic Races at BeaveRun – Starting in 2004 the PVGP introduced an additional weekend of racing at BeaveRun MotorSports Complex in nearby Beaver Falls, PA. This venue allows fan to see American muscle cars and big-bore racers that are too big and fast for Schenley Park’s circuit. It’s a loud and exciting start to a weeklong celebration of the automobile. Admission is $15 per day.

Sponsors – Shop’n Save supermarkets have been the Presenting Sponsor since 2001, in addition to being the largest contributor they also host the Hospitality Tent at the center of the golf course; it raises money for the charities as well. Ford is the next largest sponsor and is the “Official Truck of the PVGP”.  Lamar Advertising, Subaru, RR Donnelley/Hoechstetter Printing Rahal Motor Company, Cadillac and Sewickley Car Store are also major sponsors.

Car Shows – The weekend’s International Car Show at Schenley Park attracts 2,000 show cars on the golf course with their respective car clubs. The largest club is the Western Pennsylvania Triumph Association, marking their twenty fifth year as the sponsors of “British Car Day” which bring 600 British cars on Saturday, July 24. There is major support from the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Clubs as well as participation from clubs representing MINI, BMW, Jaguar, VW, Mustang, Pontiac GTO, Mazda and Austin Healey.

Public Parking – Public parking is available on Flagstaff Hill, across the street from Phipps Conservatory for $15 per day. Free shuttle buses provided by Pittsburgh Transportation Group will take you to/from the golf course and to the start/finish line. Each car will be given a certificate good for a free race program.

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Association is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization with a mission to hold a world-class vintage automotive event for charity. It is the country's largest vintage car race and the only one run on city streets. The 2011 event expects to draw 250,000 spectators for the 10-day festival held from July 15-24.

Source:http://www.pvgp.org