Classicnotes – May 2013

• RM Auctions’ February 18–19, Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum sale generated more than $9.1 million with 100 percent of all lots sold. Numerous microcar records were set including: a 1958 F.M.R. Tg 500 “Tiger” fetching $322,000, a world record price for a microcar sold at auction; a 1951 Reyonnah selling for  $184,000; and the world’s smallest production car, the 1964 Peel P50, selling for triple its pre-sale estimate, at $120,750. “Never before had such a large group of microcars been offered to the public at one time in one location. With many items offered for the first time in auction history, collectors reacted with enormous enthusiasm to the chance to own part of the collection, resulting in spirited bidding and prices frequently exceeding their estimates,” said Alain Squindo, Vice President, RM Auctions.

• 1969 Indianapolis 500 winner Mario Andretti will serve as the honorary head judge for the third annual Celebration of Automobiles on Saturday, May 11 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. As part of his role at the event, Andretti will determine which classic/vintage car will win the prestigious Driver’s Choice Award. The Celebration of Automobiles pays tribute to the rich heritage of automobile development at IMS for more than 100 years. A highlight of the event is the Vintage and Classic Car Show on Saturday, May 11, featuring 200 of the most beautiful and rare cars from 1910–’70. European marques and Brass Era cars will be featured, with new additions to the show including classes for open-wheel racecars from 1910-70, Indy 500 pace cars and unrestored cars. For more details visit www.celebrationofautomobiles.com