It’s that time of the year! The time when car aficionados and collectors from all over the world gather in Amelia Island, Florida, to compete for some of the world's most elusive cars. This time around, there will be a variety of pre-and post-war vehicles from top brands like Bentley, Cadillac, and Duesenberg. However, could one car emerge as the ultimate winner? The Amelia Island Car Show is an annual event that attracts a large audience to the luxurious location in Florida. Car enthusiasts and collectors gather there to marvel at and compete for some of the most unique cars in the world. The automobiles on display span from the 1930s to the present day, showcasing both powerful supercars and luxurious coupes. This year's show promises to be just as thrilling, with a stunning array of pre- and post-war vehicles set to be showcased.
Typically, the week-long show is organized by a single auction house, with this year's event being hosted by Broad Arrow Auctions. However, other auction houses also attend the event. One of the highlights of the show is a competition where individual cars are showcased to a panel of judges who assess their condition and give them a rating. Several modern collector's items are available, including the 2019 Bugatti Veyron Chiron, which boasts a top speed of approximately 300 miles per hour. Additionally, there's the 2006 NASCAR Chevrolet Monte Carlo that was once raced by Nascar driver Jeff Gordon.
The selection of vehicles built before the year 2000 is sure to catch the attention of classic car collectors. In the pre-war category, the 1935 Auburn Eight Supercharged speedster stands out for its combination of speed and timeless design, with an estimated price of nearly $1 million. Another noteworthy vehicle is the 1934 Packard Twelve Coupe Roadster, featuring a stunning two-tone red and Ascot maroon exterior. Its unique engine and highly coveted body style make it worth an estimated $5 million. Broad Arrow Auctions is also presenting an impressive pre-war Bugatti 57C Vanvooren Roadster, and finally, for those with a taste for elegance, the Lancia Astura Series III is available for purchase, estimated to sell for nearly $2.4 million.
The post-war collection is equally thrilling. Those who long for the 1950s can set their sights on a cherry red Buick Skylark with chrome wire wheels, available for purchase. Additionally, a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster with a convertible top is estimated to fetch nearly $1.6 million, making it a highly sought-after item. There is one particular model that is bound to spark a heated bidding war: the 1931 Duesenberg Model J 'Disappearing Top' convertible coupe by Murphy. This exquisite vehicle boasts a stunning red body in pristine condition, complete with an elongated hood that emphasizes its beauty.
However, the real allure lies in its Hollywood connections. Previously owned by Pacific Auto Rental, a Los Angeles company that frequently loaned its cars to movie productions, this automobile has appeared in a number of films and TV shows. Some of them are the movie starring Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, the series Bring ‘Em Back Alive, and the film Gable and Lombard. With an estimated value of $4.5 million, this is truly a one-of-a-kind vehicle. According to Greg Porter, a car specialist at RM Sotheby's, "The 1934 Packard Twelve and the Duesenberg are some of the most stunning American classics available for purchase." He goes on to say, "Out of all the Duesenberg models, the disappearing top design is undeniably one of the most graceful styles to ever adorn a Duesenberg chassis."