Barrett-Jackson’s 3rd Annual Las Vegas Auction to Be Epicenter of Charity Fundraising

LAS VEGAS, NV – September 22, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -

• Six national foundations to benefit from the sale of seven charity cars and one motorcycle
• Actor Patrick Dempsey to sell personal racecar
• One lucky bidder will take home pair of historic Corvettes and benefit charity

The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company will help raise money for national and local charities during its 3^rd Annual Las Vegas Collector Car Auction on Thursday, Sept. 23, through Saturday, Sept. 25. Eight vehicles, ranging from classics, new collectibles, muscle cars and a motorcycle, will be sold at No Reserve during the three-day automotive lifestyle event to benefit six nationally-recognized foundations.

“Since Barrett-Jackson hosted its first car show nearly 40 years ago to raise money for a community project, our team has helped local and national charities reach their goals at every one of our auctions,” said Craig Jackson, chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. ”Barrett-Jackson offers charities an unparalleled opportunity to raise money for their cause and so far this year, we’ve generated six million dollars for numerous foundations across the country.”

Two for One
The Darrell Gwynn Foundation and Ralph Braun Foundation will each benefit from the sale of two cars to support their charities.

The Darrell Gwynn Foundation will have a 2005 Ford Mustang FR500C racecar (Lot #668) donated by Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey and a 20^th anniversary 1990 Coors Extra Gold Top Fuel dragster (Lot #668.1) donated for the third time by Ron Pratte. The Foundation began in 2002 to provide awareness, prevention and support to ultimately find a cure for spinal cord injuries and paralysis.

The FR500C driven by Dempsey features a 5.0 liter Cammer engine with a six-speed transmission. Since its Grand-Am Cup introduction in 2005, it has earned the team 10 wins, 92 top-10 finishes and 25 podium appearances. The top fuel dragster will make its fourth appearance at Barrett-Jackson to raise funds for the Foundation. Ron Pratte donated the vehicle back to the charity after each auction in order to help the organization reach its goal of raising one million dollars. The car meticulously replicates the top fuel dragster driven by Darrell Gwynn.

The Ralph Braun Foundation was created to provide wheelchair accessible transportation to individuals and organizations who cannot afford them. Two Corvettes will be sold as a pair to benefit the Foundation at the auction. A 1981 Chevrolet Corvette coupe (Lot #373) was the first off the assembly line in Bowling Green, Ky. Its partner, a 1981 Chevrolet Corvette coupe (Lot #373.1), was the last built at the legendary St. Louis factory before the doors closed on July 31, 1981. The twins feature a beige exterior over a camel interior with a V8 mated to a three-speed automatic transmission.

“The pair of Corvettes is not only historically significant, it marks the end of one era and the beginning of another for GM,” noted Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. ”Corvettes were produced in St. Louis for 27 years before the line moved to Kentucky. The two ‘Vettes will be incredible collectibles for any enthusiast wanting a real piece of automotive history.”

Supporting Our Troops
Throughout the century, veterans have become a symbol of freedom to the American people. In Las Vegas, three charities will honor the thousands in uniform by raising money to support their military service.

“The Las Vegas community and local businesses have always been active supporters of our armed forces,” added Jackson. ”Barrett-Jackson is extremely proud to be a part of an event where three fantastic vehicles will raise money for those who fight for our country.”

The Fisher House Foundation for Armed Forces and Veterans Aid will receive funds from the sale of a 2010 Hardcore Speedster motorcycle (Lot #356). Signed by President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, this cruiser has a six-speed manual 2100CC engine. The Foundation supports families of military personnel who are in the hospital by providing those families with “comfort homes” located on the grounds of major military bases and VA medical hospitals.

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund was founded to support families of military personnel lost in service and for those veterans severely wounded. The 2010 limited edition Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Chevrolet Camaro custom coupe (Lot #392) features an eight cylinder, 6.2 liter, six-speed engine. Supercharged with 650 horsepower, a 2000-watt sound system, UFC fight glove seats and suede headliner, the vehicle will be a powerful machine to drive and enjoy.

Driven by Kasey Kahne at road courses in Sonoma and Watkins Glen, the 2009 #9 Budweiser NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger (Lot #84) will raise money for the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). The racer has a 358cid engine that produces up to 830 horsepower. The PVA works to maximize the quality of life for its members — veterans of the armed forces who have experienced spinal cord injury or dysfunction.

A Hometown Headliner
The YMCA of Southern Nevada was founded to provide families with a recreational facility as well as support continuing health and wellness for individuals of all ages. Thanks to GM, the owner of the second regular production 2011 Chevrolet Camaro convertible (Lot #396) will receive the opportunity to order the color, engine, transmission, trim and factory installed equipment.

“This is a great prospect for any enthusiast who wants to be directly involved in designing their collectible,” stated Davis. ”This Camaro will be very special to the winning bidder because they get to add their personal touches. The owner will also choose the location of delivery, so they can pick it up at their local dealership or at the GM Heritage Museum in Detroit.”

For more information on becoming a bidder and supporting these foundations, follow the link to www.barrett-jackson.com/bid.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Ariz., Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, Nev., and Orange County, Calif. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

SOURCE Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

####

Luxury Auto Auction Provides Relief to Veterans

Third Project American Heroes car to be debuted at the Orange County Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction

COSTA MESA, CA – June 16, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Nothing says America quite like the image of a classic muscle car gliding down an empty highway. Much of the American psyche is built on images of the iconic hot rods of the ’60s and ’70s and the memories they stir up. In the same light, the foundation of American patriotism rests upon the men and women of our armed services serving abroad to protect the freedoms we hold dear.

For a third year Super Chevy Magazine has enlisted Route 66 Motorsports, a custom auto restoration shop out of Chicago, and they have teamed up with the Armed Forces Foundation (AFF) to build the third Project American Heroes car, a fully restored and highly modified 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle (www.projectamericanheroes.com). Super Chevy‘s Project American Heroes brings this timeless classic to the auction block to raise money for AFF programs nationwide. This year’s car will be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Orange County, CA, the first at this location, on June 26th.

In addition to Super Chevy, Route 66 Motorsports and the AFF, the Project American Heroes program works with over 30 automotive performance aftermarket companies to assemble the finished project. This year’s Chevelle is powered by a GM Performance 550hp Supercharged LSA engine and TCI 6-speed automatic transmission and is equipped with custom Boze billet aluminum wheels and high performance suspension system from Detroit Speed Engineering. Additional parts for the car were donated by National Parts Depot, Edelbrock, Fesler Billet, Baer Brakes, Sony, Strange Engineering, Legendary Auto Interiors, Specialty Power Windows, Thermo Tec, PPG Paints, K&N Engineering, Painless Performance, AutoRad Radiators, Inland Empire Driveline, Soffseal, and Old Air Products.

Begun in 2007, Super Chevy‘s Project American Heroes has become a core fundraiser for the Armed Forces Foundation as all proceeds go directly to the foundation. This amazing program showcases the patriotism of the motorsports community by providing essential funds for the primary programs of the Armed Forces Foundation. The first car, a 1957 Chevy, raised $130,000, only to be trumped by last year’s 1969 Camaro in Palm Beach, which raised an astounding $500,000 –  the most of any car at that auction.

“I can’t think of a more fantastic way to raise awareness of our mission and highlight the talents of everyone involved in this project,” said Patricia Driscoll, President of the Armed Forces Foundation. “The dedication of all our partners really shines through in the finished product, and we are confident that this year’s auction will be just as successful as the last.”

About the Armed Forces Foundation

In 2001 the Armed Forces Foundation (AFF) was established as a 501(c)3 organization under the U.S. Department of Defense’s America Supports You program. AFF offers vital assistance to active-duty and retired personnel, National Guard, Reserve Components and military families as they cope with difficult circumstances. Through a multitude of programs the Armed Forces Foundation assists military families with  utilities and  rent; hotel and travel costs; holiday gifts for military children; and therapeutic recreational activities. The Armed Forces Foundation has been recognized by the President of the United States, the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Education and the Department of Energy for its dedication to America’s Service Members.  For more information on our Foundation or to aid us in our mission please visit us at our website www.armedforcesfoundation.org.

About Super Chevy

Super Chevy Magazine is published by SOURCE INTERLINK MEDIA and is one of their largest and most widely recognized automotive performance titles. Launched in 1965, it reaches over 3 million monthly readers and covers all aspects of technical how-to, industry commentary features, and muscle car events. www.superchevy.com

About Route 66 Motorsports

Route 66 Motorsports performs muscle car restorations and automotive restorations including classic cars, & muscle cars. They have over 35 years experience in the automotive industry and have received many awards for quality custom workmanship and custom paint work. www.rt66motorsports.com

SOURCE: Armed Forces Foundation

####

Jesse James Consigns ’36 Ford Hot Rod at Inaugural Barrett-Jackson Orange County Auction

COSTA MESA, CA – June 8, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -

• Jesse James to Sell 1936 Ford Custom Five Window Coupe at No Reserve
• First Time James has Consigned Vehicle From His Personal Collection
• Hot Rod Is Feature Car at the Inaugural Automotive Lifestyle Event

Jesse James of West Coast Choppers fame will sell his 1936 Ford Custom Five Window Coupe at No Reserve during the Inaugural 2010 Barrett-Jackson Orange County Auction. This is the first time that James has consigned a vehicle from his personal collection at Barrett-Jackson. The hot rod will be one of the feature cars at the automotive lifestyle event, June 25-27 at the OC Fair and Event Center, which will be broadcast live by SPEED TV in high definition.

“We’re pleased that Jesse chose to show off the talents of West Coast Choppers by consigning the car at Barrett-Jackson,” said Craig Jackson, CEO of Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. ”Our event is a perfect place for a vehicle of that caliber to cross the auction block because it will be appreciated by enthusiasts and collectors alike who will all want to view this interesting piece of history.”

James’ 1936 Ford Custom Five Window Coupe (Lot #382) has a three-speed automatic transmission and a 350 engine. The stunning purple custom paint was by Burnt Carlson from Hot Rods by Boyd while the interior features custom air brushing on the dash. The custom metal work was performed by masters at West Coast Choppers, which includes the chopped, smoothed, custom Nash truck grill. The vehicle, which is James’s personal ride also features 1936 Bugatti taillights.

“My ’36 Ford is a prime example of West Coast Choppers craftsmanship and Long Beach Style,” said James, motorcycle shot caller. ”I chose Barrett-Jackson because they are the benchmark for automotive trends. The fact is if a car sells at Barrett-Jackson, cars just like this will start selling all around the world.”

The car has appeared in various publications including books, magazines and TV shows. It was featured in an Auto Zone commercial alongside James. The vehicle was also made into a die cast model and a large model will be included with the car at the auction.

“Barrett-Jackson was among the first auction companies to champion custom and restored hot rods in the collector car market,” said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. “Jesse’s vehicle is the perfect example of a classic car being crafted and transformed by a master in the industry. It is definitely a car to watch for at the auction.”

This will be the first Barrett-Jackson automotive lifestyle event in Southern California with a road rally, cruise-in and other activities being planned in the area before three days of the collector car auction in Costa Mesa, Calif. The event will encompass the OC Fair & Event Center grounds and also include sponsor promotions and displays, vendors, exhibitors, interactive demonstrations, parties and other festivities with hundreds of vehicles crossing the block. In the Barrett-Jackson tradition, the Orange County event will feature several highlights for enthusiasts worldwide who are unable to attend the auction, such as live online bidding and 18 hours of live, high-definition TV coverage from SPEED.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas and Orange County, Calif. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

####

World’s most expensive car sells for $42m

May 12, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – A vintage Bugatti has become the most expensive car in the world, with a Californian auction house selling the ultra-rare 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic for more than $40 million.

The vehicle – believed to be one of only two such models in the world – was sold by Gooding & Company in California last week and while the auction house has refused to reveal the final sale price, it is widely believed to have fetched more than $US30 million ($NZ41.8m).

The auctioneer has also kept the identity of the buyer close to its chest, saying only that it went to a “devoted connoisseur who will become the guardian of this treasured piece of automotive history”.

While there has been speculation that the Mullin Automotive Museum in California was the purchaser, the museum has denied this was the case, although it did confirm it had asked the new owner to display the rare car to the public.

The car was the cornerstone of Dr Peter Williamson’s Bugatti collection, but that collection went on the market after the famed neurologist and car collector passed away in 2008.

The majority of his collection has already been sold by Goodring & Company for $US15.5 million ($NZ21.6m).

But the T57 was the first of just three Atlantics built by Bugatti, with just two surviving. The other existing example is owned by fashion designer Ralph Lauren

The sale price smashed the record for the top-priced car at auction, which was set last May in Italy when a 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa was bought for €9m ($US15.8m)

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic has been described as the first supercar ever made, with a distinctive and influential teardrop body, a low stance, 200 bhp engine and top speed of 123 mph.

SOURCE: The National Business Review

####