Market Finds: April 25,2025
Other finds
- 25,407-mile 1991 Ferrari Testarossa recent engine-out – $187,500
- Two-owner 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia 25,000 actual miles– $24,000
- 35+ years owned 1958 Buick Roadmaster 48,439 miles – $39,500
- Restored genuine 1963 MG MGB 54,041 miles – $13,000
- One-owner 1989 Chevrolet Camaro RS 40,745 miles – $13,900
- 9,800-mile 2000 Pontiac Trans Am rare WS6 6-speed – $35,000
- 77,048-mile 1991 Volkswagen Corrado G60 Neuspeed mods – $17,300
- Well sorted 1972 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 4.5 two owners – $26,000
- Original owner 1989 Ford Probe GT Turbo 82,000 miles – $4,650
- 21,000-mile 2004 Dodge Ram SRT/10 6-speed – $44,900
- One family owned 1971 Chevrolet Corvette all original docs – $42,500
ON THE BLOCK: 254-Mile McLaren F1 Open for Bidding May 13-16 through Sotheby’s Sealed
NEW YORK (April 25,2024) — Sotheby’s Sealed is offering one of the most legendary cars to ever be produced: a 1995 McLaren F1, a landmark automobile in both 20th-century automotive engineering and design. This ultra-rare vehicle, notable for its one-off Creighton Brown paintwork and matching interior color scheme, is expected to command in excess of $20 million at the sealed bid auction commencing online on May 13, 2024.
The McLaren F1 sought to be the greatest driver’s car ever built, boasting a revolutionary carbon fiber monocoque chassis that combined strength with exceptional lightness, alongside numerous other innovations. Powered by a BMW-designed 6.1-liter V12 engine, it achieved a record-breaking top speed of 240.1 mph, a record held for nearly a decade. Its aesthetic appeal is truly one of a kind as it is the only of its type to be finished in Creighton Brown over Light Tan and Brazilian Brown and in the realm of rare cars demanding top dollar and boasting remarkably low mileage, there’s no doubt that this particular McLaren F1 stands out as one of the most coveted in the world.
Its design features a unique central driving position with two passengers seated on either side of the driver, enhancing the driving experience and vehicle dynamics, and setting it apart from traditional automobiles. Only 106 McLaren F1s of all iterations were built in total, with each unit offering bespoke customization, further solidifying its status as a coveted piece of automotive history. This particular F1, with only 410 kilometers (~254 miles) from new, represents one of the finest examples, due to its incredibly low mileage and one-off color scheme.
The McLaren F1’s legendary status is bolstered by its racing pedigree, having won the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans on its debut outing, despite it having initially been designed only for road use. Becoming one of only three makes to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans on its first attempt, it was also the last road-based supercar to win at Le Mans. This blend of top-tier motorsport success, limited production, and cutting-edge engineering cements the F1 as the gold standard of modern supercars.
“From the moment it launched, the McLaren F1 was a classic. Priced at nearly one million dollars, it was the most expensive car ever offered for sale at the time. Despite this, true enthusiasts could easily justify its eye-watering price tag considering the innovations and technologies it utilized by Gordon Murray in his uncompromising pursuit of creating the greatest driver’s car of all time. In the eyes of many, it achieved that lofty goal when new, and is still considered one of the best-driving cars ever produced over thirty years since its introduction. Often dubbed as ‘the modern-day Ferrari 250 GTO,’ very few assets have experienced the value appreciation seen in the McLaren, drawing comparisons to timeless artwork showcased in the world’s most renowned museums. It’s not just a vehicle; it’s a masterpiece.”
Shelby Myers, Head of Private Sales, RM Sotheby’s
Enhancing its collectability, the car comes with a suite of desirable original accessories, including custom-fitted luggage tailored to match the car’s interior upholstery, a FACOM tool chest, a tool roll, and a one-off matching TAG Heuer watch made for the McLaren F1 inscribed with the car’s chassis number. As one of only 64 standard road cars built, ownership is restricted to a small, elite group worldwide due to their rarity and sheer desirability.
This auction offers a rare opportunity to acquire a pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury, marking a potential landmark event for collectors and enthusiasts globally.
KALMAR Beyond Adventure Offering 19-Day 5,500 km Porsche Safari Experience
Off the back of its latest eight-day expeditions across Morocco, KALMAR Beyond Adventure is offering a unique opportunity to drive over 5,500km through desert, savanna, mountains and grasslands, passing through five African countries, behind the wheel of a rally Porsche. Set to be held from 1-19 June 2025, the Trans-Africa 2025 adventure offers its guests a unique 19-day guided trip through five countries, including Angola, that will push the boundaries of both automotive and human exploration and endurance, by day balanced with immersive experiences and the finest accommodation available by night. Part of KALMAR Beyond Adventure’s Trans-Series events, no two are ever the same and with only 14 participants, each is truly a ‘once in a lifetime’ adventure.
KALMAR Beyond Adventure Trans-Africa aims to deliver the camaraderie and raw challenges not seen since the days of the gruelling Camel Trophy and original Paris Dakar from the 1980s. Driving through mind-blowing landscapes filled with abundant wildlife and unspoilt nature, after passing a short qualification test, Trans-Africa participants can enjoy tackling routes that will push the 911s, Caymans and Cayennes prepared specifically to discover the rich culture of countries including Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. New for 2025 is the addition of untouched Angola, described by Lonely Planet as “one of Africa’s last great travel mysteries”.
With over 14 successful expeditions successfully completed, KALMAR has developed unrivalled experience in specifying, building and supporting its bespoke vehicles to reward drivers. Each KALMAR Beyond Adventure car boasts a robust specification with roll-cage, cosseting sports seats, raised suspension with rally-specification shock absorbers, full under-body protection and rugged off-road tyres. Other essentials for Africa, including spare wheels and fuel cans, are also fitted, completing the ‘Safari’ look. Alternatively, owners can bring their own Porsche safari-specification car. Service and medical crews carry essential parts and equipment to enable participants to focus on the experience.
Spirit of adventure
KALMAR Beyond Adventure was established by Danish petrol head, racer and adventurer Jan Kalmar, who leads each adventure alongside a team of mechanics, fixers and support crew. As its name suggests, KALMAR Beyond Adventure prides itself on starting where others stop, with its shorter events including trips to Lapland, Morocco and Namibia. Travellers expecting a rigid itinerary or an easy ride will be disappointed. Finding ways to extract a 911 from unexpectedly soft sand, or searching for the best way to cross a swollen river, bonds participants together through memorable experiences, ultimately fostering lifelong friendships.
In line with the ever-changing landscapes and routes, the driving is equally diverse. Some days will offer precision navigational driving whilst others will be more akin to classic rally stages. Guests will sometimes travel in convoy, other times being free to explore alone with support close by from KALMAR’s highly skilled team.
Unique to KALMAR Beyond Adventure is the chance to completely unwind each night. Rest is assured by superb accommodation, with participants staying in Africa’s finest lodges and villas. Guests will also have the chance to visit sites such as Victoria Falls, local markets and game reserves. Far from the tourist routes, they’ll also savour delicious local cuisine and unpolluted views of the night’s cosmic sky.
A unique Porsche experience – the choice is yours
Trans-Africa guests can choose a specially prepared Porsche, either modern or classic, sports car or SUV, from the proven Beyond Adventure fleet. The Porsche 911s include the air-cooled, RS-R G-Series, 964/993-based KALMAR RS and the water-cooled 996-based KALMAR RS-6 – its newest creation. Alongside sits the KALMAR RS-C, based on a 987-generation Porsche Cayman, while the KALMAR CS and KALMAR CS-R are created from variants of the Porsche Cayenne. It’s even possible to swap cars mid-route to experience all the vehicle types during the event.
KALMAR Beyond Adventure’s expedition leader, Jan Kalmar, said: “Trans-Africa 2025 will be the adventure trip of a lifetime. It allows guests to explore new frontiers, get close to wildlife, and under the skin of the real Africa – all through the windscreen of an iconic Porsche sports car. The experience provides unparalleled freedom and leaves enthusiastic drivers with a genuine sense of achievement.”
Pricing for Trans-Africa 2025 starts at EUR 66,900 plus taxes and includes the use of a vehicle. For more information on KALMAR Beyond Adventure Trans-Africa 2025 and other trips, such as expeditions across the Alps and Himalayas in 2024, or Australia in 2026, visit www.jankalmar.com.
Bentley Motors Presents Mulliner Bespoke Models at Auto China 2024
BEIJING (April 25, 2024) – Bentley Motors presents a number of models all crafted by Bentley’s personal commissioning division, Mulliner, at Auto China 2024. A one-of-one Continental GTC S, exclusively created for China, makes its public debut in Beijing, having already been sold. The exceptional Mulliner Coachbuilt project – Bentley Batur – makes its first public appearance in China with a new exterior paint color, presenting a striking new look. The Bentayga EWB Mulliner – Bentley’s luxury flagship, is also displayed at the luxury stand alongside the Flying Spur Azure Hybrid, demonstrating stunning bespoke features.
Also announced, are the design details of the special collections inspired by Chinese culture. All of these models showcase Bentley’s ultimate luxury personalization, defining the extraordinary benchmark for contemporary luxury mobility and lifestyle.
“As the world’s oldest coachbuilder whose origins date back to the 16th century, the Mulliner name is known among Bentley cars for its ultimate luxury personalisation. We’re delighted to see that customers’ interest in luxury personalisation peaked in 2023, rising by 43 per cent from the previous year, with three quarters of Bentley customers exploring the 46 billion different personalisation configurations available from our options range to add personal bespoke content from Bentley’s Mulliner division. Our discerning Chinese customers and the luxury market here continue to inspire and push us to explore new boundaries, so we are excited and motivated by the future opportunities in this market.”
Ansar Ali, Mulliner and Motorsport Director at Bentley Motors
“In China, twice as many of our customers are choosing Bentley’s personal commissioning services through the Mulliner division as opposed to two years ago, a clear sign of the desire for truly unique commissions and exclusivity by our Chinese customers. To further reinforce the importance of Mulliner personalisation in China, Bentley will offer a number of China-exclusive personalised collections co-created with Mulliner in 2024. The extraordinary cars are inspired by our Chinese customers and dealers, and the perfect synthesis of Mulliner’s craft, capabilities, and local culture,” Airey added.
Kim Airey, Managing Director of Bentley Motors Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao
Mulliner Coachbuilt: The ultimate personal commission
Mulliner Coachbuilt cars combine an incredibly wide range of rare artisanal skills, modern sustainable design, and cutting-edge engineering and innovation to deliver a service no other car manufacturer can match – creating truly wondrous coachbuilt Bentleys.
Limited to just 18 cars, the coachbuilt Batur is the most powerful Bentley ever, a two-seat grand tourer only Mulliner could create. It is also characterized by a new, minimalist design language that sets the stage for the future style of Bentley models. The Batur displayed at Bentley’s stand presents, for the first time, a new exterior color by Mulliner, Gloss Aquamarine. The stunning looking car perfectly echoes the inspiration for its name – a beautiful body of water, Lake Batur.
The new design principles create a stronger and bolder exterior for the Batur that simultaneously remains elegant and graceful, relying more heavily on curvaceous surfaces bisected in the right places to reflect light and dark and bring increased muscle to the design. It looks fast even when stationary. This special feature – the “endless bonnet” – makes the car long and lean and gives an elongated proportion to the front end. The line stretches from the bonnet along the whole length of the car, and highlights the cleaner shape. Meanwhile, the visual mass of the car is moved rearwards, giving the impression that the car is sitting on the rear axle, which adds further depth to the haunches. The famous Bentley grille is redesigned to be lower and more upright, giving the car a stronger face and a more dominant stance. The grille is flanked by a new headlight shape and design, bringing self-confidence with a luxury stance.
Any part of the Bentley Batur model can be customized in color and surface finish. Endless samples of unique materials bring texture to the process, and the resulting designs will be truly individual and created by the customer – limited only by their imagination.
Batur has a two-seat interior space, with every element of its cabin tailored to the customer’s specifications. Clients can choose from a variety of sustainable interior materials. Mulliner’s in-house design team combined luxury materials and unique surfaces, giving this model a special personality. The use of 3D printed 18K gold, sustainable leather and veneers in Natural Fibre composite lays a solid foundation for the Mulliner to achieve its sustainability goals.
Mulliner Bespoke: Create something unique
Mulliner Bespoke offers a limitless range of stunning bespoke finishes and features, from interior speciality veneers and precious metals to a light illuminated to the ground displaying your design, which can make your Bentley truly unique and personal.
Bentley Motors unveiled the latest bespoke masterpiece from Mulliner at Auto China 2024, which is a one-of-one Continental GT Convertible S, exclusively created for the Chinese market. Its design – interior and exterior – is inspired by one of the most popular adrenalin-filled sports in the world – surfing – and it perfectly embodies the young spirit and aspiration of Chinese customers today.
The Snow Quartz exterior paint is a palette that pays homage to the natural colors of ocean waves, complimented by the Light Celeste pinstripe on the Mirror Cap Housings. The cabin design is inspired by ‘Green Room’, referring to the stable room inside the wave, the ultimate goal of every surfer. The interior is finished in Light Celeste as the main hide and complemented by Beluga as the secondary hide together with a Dual Gradient Single Finish Veneer featuring Brunel over Light Celeste, a Piano Brunel centre console with hand painted Light Celeste chevron pinstripe, and the contrast S emblems in Brunel have been embroidered on the headrests, reminding us of summer surfing.
The Flying Spur Azure Hybrid also shares the luxury stand, presenting various bespoke personalization details in the cabin, including Galaxy Stone over Imperial Blue Dual Finished Veneer. Bentley’s team of expert veneer hunters went to extraordinary lengths to select the stone veneer, showcasing a fusion of century-old craftsmanship and advanced technologies. This results in variations in colour, pattern, and texture which are almost impossible to imitate. Bentley’s revolutionary stone veneer interior finish makes for a magnificent contemporary feature of natural products formed over 200 million years ago.
Bentley also unveils three China-exclusive personalized collections co-created with Mulliner at Auto China 2024. The limited collections are inspired by Chinese culture, and will be launched in 2024. Limited to a production of 8 cars, Koi Carp Collection is inspired by Koi Carp, which expresses good wishes for auspiciousness and prosperity in Chinese culture. Six unique Koi Carps are included in the interior design with different shapes on backrests and the inner sill plate respectively, ‘swimming’ clockwise to circle the occupants in the luxury cabin. Also limited to a production of 8 cars, Landscapes Collection is inspired by a famous ancient Chinese painting ‘A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains (千里江山图)’, which depicts the vast country landscape, such as rivers and hills, representing Chinese people’s responsibility to the home and their nation. The contrast bespoke landscape embroidered emblems on the backrest subtly represent the shape of the Chinese characters ’Rivers and Mountains (江山)’. The Ru Yi Collection is limited to the production of 3 cars, its design concept is inspired by Chinese traditional Ru Yi, which is usually owned by ancient nobles and symbolizes power and good fortune. The backrests are decorated with Ru Yi embroidery in gold, and is the first time Mulliner has embroidered a Chinese calligrapher’s writing seal script character in the interior design. The ‘Ru Yi (如意)” seal characters are presented in the exterior badge, treadplate, and passenger fascia, adding dynamic and powerful features to the models.
Curated by Mulliner: Explore endless possibilities
From special finishes and color schemes to beautifully crafted interior and exterior features, Curated by Mulliner offers flexible personalization options, allowing Bentley customers to customize based on their preferences and experience the sense of achievement and joy of creating a masterpiece with their own hands.
Bentley’s luxury flagship Bentayga EWB Mulliner, showcased at Auto China, offers more cabin space than any comparable luxury competitor and its bespoke enhancements make every journey an occasion to be savored. The experience from the driver’s seat is equally as special as that of the expansive rear cabin, providing the world’s most luxurious SUV thus far. For cabin customization, there are eight three-color combinations to choose from, curated by the Mulliner Design team, which is a Mulliner design signature and only available for Bentley’s pinnacle models. Customers can also specify their own Mulliner Bespoke Interior using any three colors, producing nearly 4,000 tri-tone interior color combinations. The show car on the stand presents a Bespoke Interior Color Split using Linen as the main hide with Imperial Blue as the secondary hide and a Camel accent color. To further demonstrate Mulliner’s personalization capabilities, a bespoke and unique front-to-rear color split separates the rear seats from the front, flowing from Imperial Blue in the front to Linen by the rear seats.
