Iconic classics in Arizona

By Greg MacLeman

| 15 Dec 2014

Whether you've got a blank chequebook or don't have two pennies to rub together, classic car auctions are one of the most exciting events to feature in our hobby. The feeling of excitement shooting through the sales room as bidding rises above a lot's estimate can make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end – but an auction also a great place to see a wide variety of top-end classics in one place.

RM Auctions' upcoming Arizona sale on 15-16 January is a perfect example of the depth and breadth of cars that cross the block, from grand tourers of the 1950s and '60s right through to near-200mph '80s super cars.

Here are a few of our favourites from that sale.

Photo credit: Drew Shipley, Robin Adams, Sean Smith, Anthony Bellemare, Darin Schnabel, Patrick Ernzen

Few classics scream 'America' quite as loudly as a '66 Shelby Cobra, and this 410bhp, 427cu in-engined version shouts louder than most. In fact, it was so powerful that it's first owner promptly crashed it shortly after taking delivery. However, the damage wasn't too bad, and genuine Le Mans-modified replacement panels were provided by Shelby American.

It's best known for being the star of the Mr Formal Wear adverts – arguably more eye-catching than the buxom blonde who accompanied it in the photographs.

Most four-wheel-drive fanatics fall asleep dreaming of a Land-Rover or Willys Jeep, but it's the venerable Toyota Land-Cruiser that has enjoyed the biggest jump in value in recent years. Not only is this 1966 version fantastically capable, but it's also one of a small group of survivors.

Finished in a stunning shade of green, this beautifully restored example is sure to exceed expectations – both off-road and on the auction floor.

The Lamborghini Miura is one of the most beautiful cars to be styled in Italy, but it's all too easy to forget that it's also a very capable road and competition car thanks to it's delicate balance and light weight – and that 385bhp transverse V12.
This example is one of just a handful that were converted to Jota specifications between 1971-75, giving it more punch than a standard SV.

The Ferrari F40 became the undisputed king of super cars when it came on the scene in 1989, and to many it's still the ultimate road car. It's combination of feather weight and awesome power makes it ferociously quick. Ally its performance to one of the most striking designs to ever be dreamt up at Maranello and you have the makings of a true classic.

It's fair to say that the Japanese automotive industry was a bit late to the party in the 20th century and, as a result, it took longer for its domestic cars to be considered classics. Sadly for us, the days of picking up a cheap 1970s Nissan Skyline are long gone – and that's before we consider the impossibly desirable 2000GT-R 'Hakosuka', which has now achieved near legendary status among Japanese car fans.

Powerful, well proportioned and very rare, this '70 Skyline is set to fly off the block.

While a classic doesn't have to be massively powerful to become collectible, it does help to enjoy a degree of rarity – just 1400 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint Speciales were ever built. But what really pulls at the heart strings of collectors is the Speciale's stunning and perfectly formed Bertone bodywork.

This particular car recently underwent a complete restoration at the award-winning Custom Classics in Lancaster, California and is ready for its next adventure.

Shortly after a thumping American V8 was dropped into an AC to create the Cobra, The Rootes Group also got in on the act. The heart of a Mustang was transplanted into the sleek little Sunbeam Alpine to create the Tiger – with the Mk2 receiving an even beefier powerplant.

This example was exported to the States – as were many Tigers – and eventually found its way to Los Angeles. Its first owner, however, picked the car up from London and as a result features rare three-point seatbelts and a speedometer reading in kilometres.

Thanks to its intriguing 'gullwing' doors, the tin top 300SL usually gets invited to the ball ahead of its roadster sister, but we don't think that's very fair. The Gullwing may have the competition history, but there are few greater feelings in this life than driving along with nothing but sky above you. And you needn't worry too much about the weather – the roadster is every bit as practical with the hard top fitted.