Auburn Annual Automobile Auction

Dave G · 2017-09-05T02:11:58Z

Explore vintage Corvettes and classic cars from the Auburn, Indiana annual automobile auction. See photos and collector insights on market trends and restoration.

Dave G

WPS member · Automotive forum

19 replies2035 views38 photos

Dave G's 2017 post transports readers to the annual Auburn, Indiana automobile auction, a significant event for vintage and modern car enthusiasts. His photo essay, primarily focusing on vintage Corvettes, captures the essence of this massive four-day sale, which features over 800 vehicles. This piece offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of classic car auctions and the enduring appeal of iconic American automobiles.

i made a quick trip last week to Auburn, Indiana for the annual automobile auction event that takes there for four days every US Labour Day weekend. Over 800 vintage and modern cars are sold during the week and in addition the private cars for sale by owners on site probably double the inventory. There is also a spectacular local museum for the true enthusiasts featuring Duesengergs, Auburns, Cords, etc. that I have been to before but no time on this trip.

A few of the tempting cars up for sale. From my photos, you can see I was focused mostly on vintage Corvettes but the array of cars from the 30's, 40's and 50's from many makers was impressive as well. I registered to bid but didn't drive away with anything this time.

Dave

Key Points from the Discussion

A collector recounts restoring a 1957 Corvette, focusing on achieving National Corvette Restorers Society top flight standards, including details like correct date codes and original production line appearance.
The discussion draws a parallel between vintage car designs and watch re-editions, arguing that many modern 're-editions' in both industries are mere copies that sacrifice true design meaning for business.
A 1953 Corvette, one of only 300 ever built, was estimated at $250,000-$275,000 at the auction, highlighting the rarity and value of early models.
The value of vintage cars like the 23-window Volkswagen van has skyrocketed; a model that was once difficult to give away now commands significant prices, even in poor condition.
Many collectors regret not acquiring vintage cars when they were considered 'rust heaps' and could be bought for very little, now seeing their immense value.
Auction prices do not always reflect the true market reality of an item.

The Discussion

Ares501 - Mr Green

Sep 5, 2017

Alfas and Batmobile personal favorites Thanks for extensive report Cheers D

john c

Sep 5, 2017

....photo no' 9. The multi-windowed VW Camper. Beautiful. Best, John.

georgeszaslavsky

Sep 5, 2017

The problem with auctions is that they often settle prices of items not corresponding with the reality

Dave G

Sep 5, 2017

The one in the picture had an auction estimate of $145,000 and I think it sold for more. The 23 window variant is hot. Another (see photo below) which was in bad shape sold for $55K + 10% buyer premium (not 23 windows). My wife's family had the 23 window ragtop when she was young. They couldn't give it away. Now a mere shell commands big money.

heartbreaker

Sep 5, 2017

All of these beautiful vintage cars make me think that it's better to look at their design for an inspiration rather than a mere copy. We have some very good examples in the current proposals by some car makers (FIAT 500, MINI, etc...). Back to our loved horological world: I'm very sorry, but I can't bear anymore all of those "re-edition" of beautiful vintage pieces, whose design is only a stupid copy. Design is a true "language", a means of communication. And, IMHO, a lot of those copies sacrif

Arie - Mr Orange

Sep 5, 2017

I can remember people almost paying you to take the rust heaps of their hands. Wish I took them all and stored them...

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