Mecum sale clears $52 million

| 25 May 2012

More than 2900 cars, ’bikes and items of automobilia went under the hammer at Mecum’s spring auction held from 15-20 May.

After five days top price went to a 1968 Corvette L88 – going for a staggering $600,000. One of only 13 documented L88 convertibles known to exist it had been restored by the Nabers Brothers, of Houston, Texas.

The car has an all-original drivetrain, an L88 427cu in 424bhp engine and an M22 “Rock Crusher” transmission. Original specification includes period shock absorbers and Redline tyres. A Bloomington Gold Certification, with a score of 98.2, backs up the depth of work.

At $475,000 second-highest sale of the event went to this Chevrolet Nova Yenko – one of only six remaining – it can manage 0-60mph in 4 seconds thanks to a L72 427cu in, 419bhp big-block engine with a Muncie 4-speed ’box.

A 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Super Stock dragster grabbed third spot, selling for $400,000, it was dreamt up by Chevrolet’s PR manager Vince Piggins. One of only two, the super stocker racked up numerous victories through ’69 and ’70 before being converted for AHRA Pro Stock rules.

Jim Hayter piloted it to a new Pro Stock record – covering the quarter mile in 9.63 seconds at 143mph – on its way to both the Super Stock and Pro Stock championships. The car then fell into disrepair before being bought and completely resorted by ZL1 fanatic Bill Porterfield.

At $322,500 a 1957 Chevrolet Corvette Factory Airbox (bottom of page) with a 283cu in engine producing 279bhp was one of the prettiest in the sale’s top 10.

President and CEO Dana Mecum said: “The Spring Classic is the flagship event for our company, and it never ceases to amaze me just how large the auction has become.”

Mecum’s next big auction will be held on 16-18 August.