Edition 44/2008 49.824 subscribers
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EDITORIAL
I went to a marvellous party. Well, I went to several this week, in actual fact. It's that time of the year in London and what with the latest James Bond, and RM's 1960s–themed extravaganza, it was non–stop evening action.
If not exactly 'Rome at its height', there was an element of fin de siècle in Battersea — but the relentless bidding on the McLaren proved that a rare, quality car will usually find a buyer. In writing about the F1 in our preview, we commented: "When did you last see one for sale? Exactly; it could be the surprise of the night." It's nice to be proved right, although I probably wasn't alone in that opinion.
The saleroom was clearly a tougher environment than 6 or 12 months ago, with fewer 'investors' and many now much harder–nosed collectors saying no to all but the best — at the right price. The next few months are likely to be interesting ones.
Looking at some other stories in ClassicInside this week, I must raise my hat to Andy Green and Richard Noble for stretching the envelope that bit further and attempting a 1000mph World Land Speed Record.
You know what; I reckon they'll do it, too.
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Steve Wakefield |
THIS WEEK IN CLASSIC DRIVER
RM Auctions — Automobiles of London 29th October 2008McLaren F1 sells for world record £2,530,000RM had to contend not only with today's distinctly cooler financial climate but also the vagaries of the British weather, when attendees of its superb pre-event party were met by a snowstorm on leaving the venue. read more... |
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V8 Vantage Enhancement PackagesProdrive seals exclusive London deal with Nicholas MeeProdrive's enhancement packages for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage have received a boost in the shape of a tie-up with Nicholas Mee & Company. read more... |
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1000mph Land Speed Record AttemptTwelve years ago, Andy Green OBE and Thrust SSC scythed through the sound barrier to set a World Land Speed Record of 763.053mph. Now, Green and former record-holder, Richard Noble OBE, are gearing up to attempt a remarkable 1000mph. read more... |
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Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560–4 Blancpain Super TrofeoLamborghini will follow in the footsteps of Porsche and Ferrari in 2009, by launching an exclusive one–make racing series. The specially built, 570bhp Gallardo LP 560–4s are aimed at professional and 'gentleman' drivers alike, with an anticipated 30–car grid forming the fastest single-model series in the world. read more... |
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CLASSIC LIFE
Tag Heuer MeridiistThe Merediist is the first of its kind: a mobile phone from a Swiss watchmaker. And why not? It seems logical that we should want the same perfection in communication as we do in timekeeping. read more... |
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THE CLASSIC DRIVER PREMIUM CAR MARKET
MODERN
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
colour Black |
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Marlow CarsTown/City: Marlow, UK |
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CLASSIC
Porsche 959 S
colour Grand Prix White |
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One of just 29 factory "S" versions, 450hp 2.8l twin turbo engine, 6-speed manual transmission, all-wheel-drive, factory roll cage, factory sport seats, original jack, tools, 959 shop manual, Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, impeccable throughout.
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Copley MotorcarsTown/City: |
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SPORTING
De Tomaso Vallelunga Prototipo
colour White |
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This De Tomaso Vallelunga alloy-bodied prototype was produced in 1963 and is one of only 3 aluminium cars built.
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DK EngineeringTown/City: Chorley Wood, UK |
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EVENTGUIDE 2008
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01.11. — 02.11. London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2008, UK |
SERVICE
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