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The collector car frenzy was alive and well this year at Russo and Steele’s Sports and Muscle in the Desert Sale.
Top Dollar Notable Sales Fuel Anniversary Auction Success in Scottsdale!
For Immediate Release
Scottsdale, Arizona (January 20, 2014) – For Enthusiasts – By Enthusiasts.™ Much more than a tagline, it’s our lifestyle. One that infuses all aspects of our auction events. Our 15th Anniversary Scottsdale auction was a perfect case in point. Closing out the weeks enthusiast driven festivities and continuing to build on the foundation of outstanding, diverse and sought after collector automobiles and all the high energy block intensity that Russo and Steele is known for, the Scottsdale auction event kept bidders engaged and excited throughout entire week and closed out our 15th anniversary Scottsdale celebration with a bang. While we are now working hard to process the final sales totals, early indicators point to excellent results in several of the fastest-rising areas of today’s collector-car marketplace.
When the gavel fell for the last time, some of the weeks most talked about lot numbers included:
#2565 1957 300SL Roadster – $1,430,000.00
One of the most collectible, historic, and instantly-recognizable sports cars ever conceived, this 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is one of just 1,858 examples built in all from 1957 through 1963. Highly detailed, it is simply resplendent and continues to benefit handsomely from over 25 years of single ownership in California and a restoration completed in 2007. This stunning automobile is fully documented in the 300 SL Registry.
#2235 1969 Camaro ZL1 – $335,500.00
One of just 69 produced and one of three COPO 9737 cars, this ZL-1 was raced from new and it is a former National drag racing record holder. Factory features include radio delete, M21 4-speed, Black Standard interior, X44 Trim Code, and Fathom Green paint. Offered from 15 years of single ownership, it is a certified original-body car retaining mostly original sheet metal. A multiple magazine-feature car, it comes with the original window sticker, documents, and as-found photographs, it is a great example of the baddest purpose-built Chevy racing car ever created.
#2074 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 – $330,000.00
An outstanding example of one of the most famous American muscle cars ever built, this 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback is a 2-owner car. Features include a Toploader 4-speed manual transmission, Drag Pack, and Competition Suspension. A recipient of a complete restoration overseen by a senior Mustang Club of America official in 2011, all parts used in the restoration were NOS or OEM components and are documented in its accompanying restoration book.
#2275 1974 Porsche 911 2.7 RS – $302,500.00
This very sought after limited production 1974 Euro Carrera 2.7 RS, was not originally available in the US. It was first delivered on the 17th of May 1974, to the Prince of Bahrain, at the Porsche Factory in Stuttgart, Germany. This Carrera (# 947) was always lavishly stored and maintained, and comes complete with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, showing it to be all numbers matching with a certified mileage of only 58,837 or 94,140 kms.
#2080 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster – $286,000.00
Originally offered as a lower cost option designed to appeal to the U.S. market, Porsche 356 Speedsters are now considered one of the most beautiful and sought after production Porsche models of all time. Then sole Porsche U.S. importer Max Hoffman initially sold the idea believing that a raw, open top version of the 356 would be a hit in the United States. With its low profile, racing inspired removable windshield, bucket seats and minimal folding top, the Speedster became an instant object of desire. Just 1 of approximately 1,171 Speedsters produced in 1957, this Ivory over red, California specialist restored example continues to prove just how correct he was.
#2525 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda “Original” – $247,500.00
This 1970 Hemi ‘Cuda is believed the sole example retaining its original FJ5 Limelight Hi-Impact paint finish. With its VIN decoded by noted Chrysler expert Galen Govier, this Hemi ‘Cuda was scheduled for production on Monday, October 13, 1969 at Chrysler’s Hamtramck, Michigan assembly plant and built to perform – at very high speeds – with its highway-friendly 3.23:1 Sure-Grip rear end and absence of power-robbing luxury options. Nonetheless, this Hemi ‘Cuda was equipped new with power brakes (with front discs), power steering, the famed ‘Shaker’ hood and competition-style hood pins. High-Grade trim includes black vinyl bucket seats, dual outside mirrors, a black vinyl top, chrome exhaust tips, a floor console, and a Music Master AM radio.
#2071 1959 Echidna Chassis #2 – $162,800.00
During the 1950s “Golden Age” of sports-car racing in the United States, one of the most competitive and consistent specials was the Echidna, conceived, designed and built by Ed Grierson, Bill Larson, and John Staver of Hibbing, Minnesota. Named after the reclusive Australian spiny anteaters immortalized in Greek mythology as the mother of all monsters, Echidnas – numbering just three in all – ruled SCCA C- and B-Modified competition. Echidna number 2 is powered by a hot small-block Chevy equipped with the legendary Rochester fuel-injection unit and backed by a T-10 four-speed gearbox. On the track, the Echidnas competed against and beat many of the era’s best sports racers, including Jaguar D-types, Lister-Jaguars and Corvettes, Ferrari 750 and 860 Monzas, Mondials and Testa Rossas, and the Maserati 450S, making them some of the most important American race cars of the era.
#2113 1953 Jaguar XK120 – $143,000.00
This 1953 Jaguar XK 120, a Special Equipment model sometimes known colloquially in the US as the XK 120M, was built in 1952. The speed plaque on the XK 120 SE certified 132mph, from a naturally aspirated 3.4 engine in a 3,100 lb car. The restoration began with the purchase of an incredibly rare set of dual-throat SU carbs and manifold manufactured in the 1950’s and appearing only on a few race cars such as some of the Lemans Triumphs and the Hughes Kircher Jaguar Special XK 120. The former owner purchased the carbs and began searching for a competition XK 120 as a home for them. This car has been featured in the Robb Report and the English magazine Jaguar Quarterly.
Unquestionably, the Russo and Steele 15th Anniversary Auction Celebration marked a thrilling experience on all levels and a fitting introduction to 2015's auction series. Following the high-octane action on the auction block, we are closing sales and processing transactions and will provide the finalized results in a subsequent media release.
In the meantime, keep your eyes on us and get ready to join us at our next scheduled event at Newport Beach, California in June and we look forward to seeing you there!
For further supporting documentation, high-resolution images, or more information about the 15th Anniversary Russo and Steele Scottsdale auction and our upcoming events, please contact Darin Roberge at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
About Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions
One of the nation’s premier collector-car auction houses, Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions continues to set records and attract a discerning global clientele. In addition to our reputation for offering stellar collector automobiles, our unique high-energy auction experience is simply unattainable anywhere else. Auctions include our signature event in Scottsdale, Arizona every January, followed by June at Newport Beach, and August at Monterey, California. For additional information, please visit www.russoandsteele.com or call 602.252.2697.
Media Contact:
Darin Roberge
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
602-252-2697
Exciting and Diverse Offerings Featured at Russo and Steele’s 15th Anniversary Auction Event!
For Immediate Release:
Scottsdale, Arizona (January 5th, 2015) – For Enthusiasts – By Enthusiasts. ™ This is far more than a tagline at Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions. It’s a lifestyle, and we are gearing up to deliver that singular passion to the High Desert of sunny Scottsdale, Arizona for our annual flagship event during the world renowned collector car week. Additionally, Scottsdale marks the kick-off of the year-long celebration of our 15th anniversary. Held over five thrilling and action-packed days from Wednesday January 14th through Sunday January 18th, this “must attend” event promises to deliver our signature high-octane experience with a huge selection of today’s finest and most interesting collector automobiles, ranging from time-honoured European sports classics, to legendary and historically important competition cars, to the most sought after of American muscle machines, with virtually everything in between.
With this philosophy in mind, Russo and Steele constantly sets to push the bar for collectors worldwide each event by presenting the most diverse docket of offerings available anywhere in the industry. Sure to peak the interest of every kind of enthusiast, and guaranteed to inspire furious bidding are:
1966 Shelby Cobra Roadster CSX3135 - Documented in the Shelby American World Registry, CSX3135 is an original 427 “street” Cobra, sold new on December 20, 1965 by Broadway Motors in Kansas City to Nick Nero, who raced it in A/Production and qualified for the 1966 SCCA American Road Race of Champions (ARRC). Owned by the Consignor since the mid-1970s, CSX3135 benefits from a long-term restoration completed in 1989 and subsequent freshening in 2013. Finished in factory-specification Guardsman Blue, it is powered by a proper 427 “side oiler” engine.
1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL-1 COPO - One of just 69 produced and one of three COPO 9737 cars, this ZL-1 was raced from new and it is a former National drag racing record holder. Factory features include radio delete, M21 4-speed, Black Standard interior, X44 Trim Code, and Fathom Green paint. Offered from 15 years of single ownership, it is a certified original-body car retaining mostly original sheet metal. A multiple magazine-feature car, it comes with the original window sticker, documents, and as-found photographs, it is a great example of the baddest purpose-built Chevy racing car ever created.
1974 Porsche 911 2.7 RS - This very sought after limited production 1974 Euro Carrera 2.7 RS, was not originally available in the US. It was first delivered on the 17th of May 1974, to the Prince of Bahrain, at the Porsche Factory in Stuttgart, Germany. This Carrera (# 947) was always lavishly stored and maintained, and comes complete with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, showing it to be all numbers matching with a certified mileage of only 58.837 or 94,140 kms. Also included are service records, owner's manuals, tool kit and factory jack.
1937 Cord 812 Cabriolet - Commonly called a Sportsman, this Cord Cabriolet is one out of 206 Cabriolets built by the factory. It has the original radio and deluxe heater and is the recipient of a frame off restoration with engine and transmission completely re-manufactured. It has roller bearing rocker arms, a full flow oil filter and new aluminum heads, cast out of aircraft alloy aluminum as well as new heavy duty steel wheels and white will radial tires. All chrome work is re-plated and it has a factory brass windshield. The exterior features a factory color, Cool Orchard Green with matching green leather interior. This rare and amazing automobile is being offered at NO RESERVE
2010 Toyota Tacoma Polar Expedition – This Polar Expedition Tacoma set the Guinness World Record for the fastest overland journey to the South Pole (700 miles) which was completed in 1 day, 15 hours, and 54 minutes! Costing $400,000 USD to build, it is powered by a 4.0L TRD supercharged V-6 producing 380 hp through a 4-wheel drive system and automatic transmission. The Polar Expedition was designed and built with the help of Arctic Trucks. Finished in NATO Green vinyl wrap over a Graphite interior, this incredible vehicle has traveled just 14,281 miles, and is to be offered at NO RESERVE.
For additional information regarding our Scottsdale ’15 auction, the exciting selection of featured collector automobiles being assembled daily, and our 15th Anniversary events, visit our website at www.russoandsteele.com. For further supporting documentation, high-resolution images, or more advance information about the Russo and Steele Scottsdale 2015 auction event, please contact Darin Roberge at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
About Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions
For Enthusiasts by Enthusiasts™. It’s not just a tagline, it’s a lifestyle! As one of the nation’s premier collector-car auction houses, Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions celebrates its upcoming 15th Anniversary in 2015 and continues to innovate, set new records, and attract ever-growing numbers of clients worldwide. In addition to our reputation for offering stellar collector automobiles, our thrilling and unique auction experience is simply unattainable anywhere else. Auctions include our signature event in Scottsdale, Arizona in January, followed by Newport Beach, California and then returning to Monterey Car Week in Monterey, California in August.
Russo and Steele Media Contact:
Darin Roberge
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
602.252.2697
Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions Presents Scottsdale 2015 Offerings to Watch
For Immediate Release:
Scottsdale, Arizona (January 1st, 2015) – For Enthusiasts – By Enthusiasts. ™ This is far more than a tagline at Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions. It’s a lifestyle, and we are gearing up to deliver that singular passion to the High Desert of sunny Scottsdale, Arizona for our annual flagship event during the world renowned collector car week. Additionally, Scottsdale marks the kick-off of the year-long celebration of our 15th anniversary. Held over five thrilling and action-packed days from Wednesday January 14th through Sunday January 18th, this “must attend” event promises to deliver our signature high-octane experience with a huge selection of today’s finest and most interesting collector automobiles, ranging from time-honoured European sports classics, to legendary and historically important competition cars, to the most sought after of American muscle machines, with virtually everything in between.
Leaving the gates and leading the charge into our 15th year in Scottsdale, Arizona and sure to generate intense action on the auction block are:
1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Coupe - This Plum Crazy 1971 Hemi 'Cuda is a two-owner example with history documented back to the original owner. It was sold new in Southern California and current mileage is 12,000. It features a variety of original parts down to the wheels, front rotors and calipers, rear drums, power steering pump and more. The Galen Govier Reference Manual states that this vehicle is one of 59 Hemi 'Cudas built in 1971 equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission. A full list of options and features accompanies this extremely rare and highly valuable musclecar legend.
1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback - An outstanding example of one of the most famous American muscle cars ever built, this 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 Fastback is a 2-owner car. Features include a Toploader 4-speed manual transmission, Drag Pack, and Competition Suspension. A recipient of a complete restoration overseen by a senior Mustang Club of America official in 2011, all parts used in the restoration were NOS or OEM components and are documented in its accompanying restoration book.
2007 Creative Workshop Sport Speciale SPCNS - Completed in late 2007 after a build involving over two years and 7,000 man-hours, the Speciale was inspired by the big-bore European racecars of the late 50s and early 60s with styling cues from such icons as the Ferrari TR 59/60, Aston Martin DBR1, and Maserati 450S. Power is provided by an Fl-inspired, custom-built aluminum BMW V-12 by Dinan Performance, displacing 5,972 cc and delivering 450 horsepower and 480 pounds-feet of torque. Weighing in at just 2,300 pounds, the Speciale's power-to-weight ratio is an amazing 5 pounds per horsepower. The subject of much media attention since its inception, this one of a kind machine is offered at NO RESERVE.
1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird - Listed in the Chrysler Registry and with its VIN decoded by Galen Govier, this real Hemi Superbird was factory-finished in FY1 Lemon Twist "Hi-Impact" paint and equipped with a stout A-727 TorqueFlite automatic transmission, plus N96 Air Grabber hood, Charcoal and Black bucket seats, and a 3.55:1 Sure-Grip rear end, 26-inch radiator, and wood grain floor console. Built in November 1969 this Superbird is confirmed as the 313th of the 1,935 Superbirds produced. Only 135 were factory-equipped with the legendary 425-horsepower, 426 cubic-inch Chrysler Street Hemi V-8 engine, including the incredible example offered here.
1968 Firebird Titus Vintage Trans-Am Race Car Daytona Winner S/n 7L141852 - This is the actual TG Racing Pontiac Firebird that competed in the '68 Trans Am season and was driven to victory by Jerry Titus in the 1969 24 Hours of Daytona. The car was restored and race prepared by Bill Elliott Racing to its '69 Daytona livery, as it is presented today. Campaigned with the Historic Trans Am group, it has competed at the most prestigious vintage events including the Monterey Historic Automobile Races, Coronado Speed Festival, Wine Country Classic, and Goodwood Festival of Speed. A bio of the car was published in Hemmings and additional information and photos can be found in Dave Friedman's seminal book on the era, “Trans Am, the Pony Car Wars.”
1959 Echidna Chassis #2 "The Grierson Car" Class "CM" Sports Racer – During the 1950s “Golden Age” of sports-car racing in the United States, one of the most competitive and consistent specials was the Echidna, conceived, designed and built by Ed Grierson, Bill Larson, and John Staver of Hibbing, Minnesota. Named after the reclusive Australian spiny anteaters immortalized in Greek mythology as the mother of all monsters, Echidnas – numbering just three in all – ruled SCCA C- and B-Modified competition. Echidna number 2 is powered by a hot small-block Chevy equipped with the legendary Rochester fuel-injection unit and backed by a T-10 four-speed gearbox. On the track, the Echidnas competed against and beat many of the era’s best sports racers, including Jaguar D-types, Lister-Jaguars and Corvettes, Ferrari 750 and 860 Monzas, Mondials and Testa Rossas, and the Maserati 450S, making them some of the most important American race cars of the era.
1953 Jaguar XK 120 - This 1953 Jaguar XK 120, a Special Equipment model sometimes known colloquially in the US as the XK 120M, was built in 1952. The speed plaque on the XK 120 SE certified 132mph, from a naturally aspirated 3.4 engine in a 3,100lb car. The restoration began with the purchase of an incredibly rare set of dual-throat SU carbs and manifold manufactured in the 1950’s and appearing only on a few race cars such as some of the Lemans Triumphs and the Hughes Kircher Jaguar Special XK 120. The former owner purchased the carbs and began searching for a competition XK 120 as a home for them. This car was featured in the Robb Report and the English magazine "Jaguar Quarterly." An issue of each is included in the sale.
For additional information regarding our Scottsdale ’15 auction, the exciting selection of featured collector automobiles being assembled daily, and our 15th Anniversary events, visit our website at www.russoandsteele.com. For further supporting documentation, high-resolution images, or more advance information about the Russo and Steele Scottsdale 2015 auction event, please contact Darin Roberge at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
About Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions
For Enthusiasts by Enthusiasts™. It’s not just a tagline, it’s a lifestyle! As one of the nation’s premier collector-car auction houses, Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auctions celebrates its upcoming 15th Anniversary in 2015 and continues to innovate, set new records, and attract ever-growing numbers of clients worldwide. In addition to our reputation for offering stellar collector automobiles, our thrilling and unique auction experience is simply unattainable anywhere else. Auctions include our signature event in Scottsdale, Arizona in January, followed by Newport Beach, California and then returning to Monterey Car Week in Monterey, California in August.
Russo and Steele Media Contact:
Darin Roberge
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
602.252.2697
