February 23, 2004

By: Delani Angelo
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Classic Hemi and Hot Rods Rock The House As Classic Car Auction Sales Soar

Barrett-Jackson Auction Company announces their most successful car auction to date with record-breaking sales in numerous categories, including world-class street rods, muscle, sports and classic cars during the four-day 33rd annual Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Auction, presented by Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep.

The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company reaffirmed the economic viability of investing in classic cars with another record-setting year, which garnered an estimated $38.5 million in sales compared to the $28.5 million record set at the 2003 auction. Of the 762 cars that crossed the auction block during the four-day event, 744 cars were purchased, which translates into a world record 98% sales percentage.

Despite inclement weather, attendance at the 2004 event was equally record-setting with an estimated 185,000 people attending over the four-day event, up over the 2003 attendance of approximately 175,000. In addition, SPEED Channel Television Network broadcast an extended 15 hours of live auction coverage.

the top auction sales was a world-class, award-winning 1938 Lincoln Zephyr V-12 Coupe Street Rod, which sold for $432,000 dollars. In addition, an unrivaled selection of Hemi-powered automobiles, street rods, muscle cars, classic and pedigree European sports cars were sold on the auction block at the 33rd annual edition of what is internationally established as the The World’s Greatest Classic Car Auction.

The success of this year’s auction sets an on-going trend clearly demonstrating that the Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Auction is the premiere event to buy and sell the finest quality cars on the planet, said Barrett-Jackson President Craig Jackson.

Jackson explained that from an investor standpoint, the quality and desirability of the cars is definitive. He stated that the success of the Barrett-Jackson Auction is not a surprise, it is a direct result of a well thought-out strategy beginning with the consignment process. The ability to consign the most desirable and sought-after cars is our industry advantage.

You can never go wrong buying the best cars in such a diverse and well organized event, said Jackson.

The auction is a lifestyle event, featuring a fashion show, opening night charity Gala and an exhibit pavilion offering classic automobilia, high-end jewelry, celebrity collectables and a myriad of other sought-after vendors.

Our event is much more than a car auction, it is a lifestyle event in which the most avid collector and the first-time buyer have the chance to view the most extensive and premium collection of cars in one location, at one time, in addition all the other activities at the auction, there is literally something for everyone.

Throughout the four-day auction, crowds watched as bidders vied for an unparalleled selection of collector cars. This year’s auction saw top prices paid in nearly all categories of cars, said Jackson. We exceeded a number of previously established world record prices, continued Jackson.

Among the celebrity attendees who were either bidding or selling cars at this year’s auction were Jeff Probst, host of the hit TV series Survivor, Jason Lewis from HBO’s Sex in the City, actor Tim Allen, 1998 Playboy Playmate Of The Year Karen McDougal, Denver Bronco quarterback Jake Plummer, NHL Phoenix Coyote captain Shane Doan, Baseball Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson, and music artists Bob Seger and George Benson. A variety of American automotive design icons such as Carroll Shelby with his wife Cleo, Reeves Callaway and former General Motor's design chief Wayne Cherry also attended the auction. Although not auctioned at this year’s event and following a great deal of fanfare, Michael Jackson’s 2001 Bentley was displayed throughout the weekend and will be sold at a future Barrett-Jackson event.

About The Author:

Delani Angelo is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.