The
grounds of Villa Erba showcased the 40 lots to go under the hammer
this evening. A reception function took place from 7:00pm to 9:00pm,
with yes, the auction starting at 9:00pm! By this time it was shivering
cold, as the auction was taking place outside.
RM Auctions had quite a good success rate with
over 80% of cars selling, but both of the two Riva boats failed to
reach their reserves.
An
Australian-owned Bentley 6 ½ litre failed to sell, with bidding
reaching Euro 540,000. I understand that this car later caught fire
following an avoidable fuel leak, mixed with electronic water pump.
I was put back in my seat when a 1962 Mercedes-Benz
300SL Roadster fetched Euro 995,000. The car had being fitted &
presented for auction with power-steering and disc brakes, but apparently
the original parts come separate to the car, but with the sale –
hope they fit!
Five
Ferrari “Supercars” went under the hammer; 288 GTO –
Euro 860,000, F40 at Euro 420,000, an F50 at Euro 500,000, an Enzo
at Euro 995,000, and a 2010 599 XX at Euro 948,000.
In fact, all Ferraris in the auction sold,
including a 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Coupe at Euro 1,950,000
The show stopper though was the much anticipated
sale of the 1953 Ferrari 340/375 MM Berlinetta Competizione. Bidding
started at Euro 3,000,000, with five bidders quickly taking this past
the expected 6million mark, then two bidders fought it out, and after
about 15 minutes of bidding the auctioneer, speaking 5 languages continuously!,
knocked it down for Euro 8,800,000.
Beside
the price of the 599 XX, all prices listed here do not include the
12% Buyer’s premium & VAT.
So, the 340/375 MM sold for US $11,440,000
Historic
Racing Australia