If you have the slightest interest in cars you would know how easy it is to get carried away browsing through the classifieds. Take it a step up, and international auctions can also turn an interesting browsing experience. This coming Thursday is RM Auctions’ “Driven by Disruption” event in New York. A few members of the CAR team have selected their personal favourites … if money was no object.
Steve Smith – Editor
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Sportabteilung” Gullwing
I’m a sucker for classic Mercs and not only is the Gullwing the classic car I covet the most, but this example is one of only 29 all-alloy bodied examples made, plus it has the NSL-spec motor with revised camshaft profile.
1959 BMW 507 Roadster Series II
One of the world’s most beautiful roadsters. Perhaps not as elegant as some of the Italians, but there’s a purposefulness to Von Goertz’s lines that indicates an industrial design influence. Super rare too with only 251 made.
Sudhir Matai – Associate editor
It’s easier to choose two classics, but as my colleagues will probably go down that route I’ll keep my choices modern:
2003 Ferrari Enzo
It’s the last of the “pure” naturally aspirated Ferrari limited edition supercar models. It’s beautiful and the V12 sounds dramatic, but that its development was aided by Michael Schumacher seals the deal for me.
2006 Lamborgini Concept S
I am a BIG fan of the best-selling Bull of all time. It doesn’t get more special than this one-off Gallardo, sans roof to enjoy that maniacal V10.
Nicol Louw – Technical editor
1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV by Bertone
Was not such a fan of the Miura until I saw it in the flesh in the Volkswagen museum in Wolfsburg of all places. With perfect proportions, it is probably the most beautiful car ever created. One can stare at it all day long…
2003 Ferrari Enzo
The start of a new era of Ferrari supercars with added software and electronics. Still a mid-mount V12 naturally-aspirated engine but only flappy paddles to change the gears. Fast enough to keep modern machinery honest on a breakfast run or around the racetrack.
Terence Steenkamp – Associate editor
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Sportabteilung” Gullwing
The most beautiful car ever made, and this one’s pedigree is unparalleled. As much of a first-rate investment as it is a work of art.
1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc Roadster
I should perhaps confess to having a bit of a fetish for classic Benzes… This colour combo is terrific and I appreciate the restorers showing a “suitable regard for existing patina”.
Wilhelm Lutjeharms – Journalist
1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2,7 Touring
It might not be one of the more sought after Lightweight examples, but nevertheless, still one of the most iconic 911s. The Signal Yellow colour is also quite appealing to me as well as the fact that it has been restored.
1981 BMW M1
BMW’s first supercar (and only?) has such a rich and interesting history, that there is not a lot to dislike. The fact that it combines German and Italian engineering and design makes it also a special proposition.
Nikesh Kooverjee – Journalist
1986 Ford RS200
Although a deadly product this homologated Group B rally car is a simple yet effective tool at achieving a thrilling driving experience. Being one of the few purely crazy Ford designs out there its focus is to go fast without any sacrifice.
1981 Lamborghini Countach LP400
Being one of the first bookmarks in the supercar story, the Countach still catches the attention of many thanks to its out-of-this-world design. In terms of drivability it isn’t that much of a focused car but the looks alone should make up for that.
Picture courtesy: RM Auctions
