Cars

With a technically solid drivetrain, including an enjoyable six-cylinder petrol engine, many were used until the body collapsed into dust

A wide variety of Toyota FJ40s are to be auctioned by Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, but RM Auctions, Bonhams and Gooding & Company have also recognised the potential of early Land Cruisers – with each offering a prime example in their Arizona sales, all in restored states and with estimates ranging from 35,000 to 85,000 USD.

Citroën’s innovative DS, with its hydropneumatic suspension, was revered worldwide but the media had one major criticism: it needed more power. As a custom-designed, technologically advanced 2.7-litre Maserati V6 was fitted into a new quirky saloon body, so the SM was born – finally with the oomph and versatility deserved by a true luxury car. 

In honour of this important landmark for the Trident marque, a highlight of TopMobiel will be a display of 30 Maserati models to illustrate the illustrious brand’s long history. There will also be a special exhibition entitled ‘Pre War Race Legends’, which aims to showcase the ‘forefathers of Formula 1’. And yet another display will present the exotic film career of the Ford Mustang – with such exhibits as the legendary Pony Car from the 60s movie ‘Bullitt’.

Maseratis in the Market

The combination led to not only probably the most powerful Cobra ever created, but also one of the most unforgiving road cars ever built. When the thunderous custom Cobra was unleashed back in the early 2000s, it would reach 124mph in under 10 seconds – putting it in the same league as the Ferrari Enzo and Lamborghini Murciélago, and even the Mercedes CLK GTR and Porsche 911 GT1. It’s worth reminding yourself that the car was based on a 40-year-old design, yet did battle with the aerodynamic elite of its day.

Photos: Classic Driver dealers, RM Auctions

Video: Motorhead

Scottsdale Auction Week / 12-19 January 2014

Lamborghini Miura