Considered by many as one of the most beautiful cars ever built, the Duesenberg J 586/2611 Convertible Berline LWB by Rollston was the last of the two bodies built on the Duesenberg long chassis. The car was designed by the renowned coachbuilder Rollston and was destined for the New York Auto Show in 1936.

The Duesenberg J 586/2611 Convertible Berline LWB by Rollston was a car ahead of its time, incorporating many European influences into its design. The car’s bullet-style headlights and taillights, pontoon fenders over disc wheels, and sloping rear deck gave it a sleek and elegant look that still turns heads today.

The car was purchased by Conkey Whitehead, the president of Coca-Cola, before the New York Auto Show and was used regularly at his Atlanta home. After Whitehead, the car was purchased by jazz musician Charles Kyner, who kept the car for an astounding 46 years. However, despite owning the car for almost five decades, Kyner only drove it once every year.

After Kyner’s death, the car passed to Richard Dicker of the Pennsylvania Rail Road Company. Dicker restored the car in 1990 to its original beauty, and it has since won numerous awards. The Duesenberg J 586/2611 Convertible Berline LWB by Rollston is the only Duesenberg Sports Convertible Berline left in the world and has won several prestigious awards, including the AACA Grand National Senior award, the CCCA Premier Senior award, and the ACD Category No. 1 – Certified Original Car (certificate no. 642811717-2).

The Duesenberg J 586/2611 Convertible Berline LWB by Rollston was also a Best in Class award winner at the Great Automobiles of the Golden Era at the 2004 Meadowbrook Concours. It was even displayed at the Petersen Museum as part of a six-month Duesenberg exhibit.

In 2022, the Duesenberg J 586/2611 Convertible Berline LWB by Rollston was sold for an incredible $2,695,000 at the Mecum Monterey auction. This sale further solidified the car’s status as one of the most valuable and sought-after classic cars in the world.

In conclusion, the 1936 Duesenberg J 586/2611 Convertible Berline LWB by Rollston is a true gem in automotive history. Its unique design, luxurious features, and impressive history make it an iconic piece of automotive art. The car’s story is a testament to the enduring legacy of classic cars and their ability to capture the hearts and imaginations of enthusiasts for generations to come.

Many consider it to be the best SL that Mercedes ever produced, and it’s not hard to see why.

The car’s clean design is timeless, and it still turns heads today. Its sleek lines and elegant curves are complemented by a hardtop that gives the car a unique and distinct profile. The W113, as the model is known, was designed with both form and function in mind, and it remains a testament to the excellence of German engineering.

Under the hood, the 280 SL boasts a 2.8-liter straight six engine that produces 170 horsepower, making it quick and responsive on the road. It’s not the most powerful engine out there, but it’s well-suited to the car’s size and weight, and it delivers a smooth and refined driving experience.

The car’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the dashboard is simple and intuitive. The gauges and controls are well-placed and easy to read, and the overall feel of the cabin is one of quality and craftsmanship.

The Mercedes Benz 280 SL Pagoda is a classic car that continues to capture the hearts and minds of car enthusiasts around the world. Its timeless design, impressive performance, and impeccable engineering make it a true masterpiece of automotive history.

The idea for the car was sparked by the lack of a boattail coupe among the LeBaron-bodied Packards of the Classic Era, prompting Fran Roxas, a renowned restorer and coachbuilder, to embark on the epic project. Strother MacMinn, a former head of the transportation department at the Art Center College of Design, was commissioned to create line drawings for the car. However, it took some time for the drawings to be realized due to Roxas’ workload. Scott Knight, a highly respected fabricator and coachbuilder, along with his son Dave, undertook the chassis and coachwork project, utilizing modern computer-based technology to produce stunning all-steel custom bodywork, eliminating the need for traditional body bucks. They fabricated various chassis components, and the suspension components were traditional Packard-type items, except for the dropped tubular front axle and modern four-wheel disc brakes.

For power, the Packard V12 engine was enlarged from 445 to 500 cubic inches, complete with a custom intake manifold mounting three dual-choke Weber carburetors and custom-built exhaust headers. A pair of finned aluminum high-compression cylinder heads was built especially for “Myth” using an original set of Packard V12 high-compression heads as a pattern, giving the engine a remarkable sound similar to a Ferrari V12. To handle the powerful engine output, a modern GM 4L60E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission was expertly mated to the Packard V12.

The boattail coupe’s design is true to the original MacMinn drawings, complete with modern flush headlights and tiny taillights, customized bumpers and Packard grille shell. The low-cut and split windshield was custom-built, inspired by LeBaron designs from the 1930s. The stunning exterior finish features 2008 Lexus Tiger Eye Mica and 2005 Bentley Orange Flake Metallic, providing a dash of sporting Classic Era-inspired flair.

Inside, the “Myth” is similar to a blend of 1930s Bugattis, 1950s GT cars, and modern ultra-luxury sports cars, with some Packard components added. The 1934-vintage Packard dash panel has been modified, with a jewel-like insert housing Stewart-Warner gauges. The car features a leather-wrapped, 15-inch banjo-style Packard steering wheel and a console-mounted floor shifter. Leather-covered bucket seats, an AM radio, power windows, a Duesenberg-style chronograph, and a set of custom-fitted luggage round out the purposeful yet elegant interior.

Despite its Classic Era design origins, the “Myth” has impressive drivability and performance capabilities, making it a truly unique creation.

It was built in partnership with the Italian design firm Ghia and the German coachbuilder Karmann. The Karmann Ghia is a unique combination of the reliable Volkswagen platform and the stylish design of the Ghia.

The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was introduced to the market in 1955, and its design was inspired by the Porsche 356. It was an instant success, and it quickly became one of Volkswagen’s most popular models. The Karmann Ghia was designed as a sporty and stylish car, but it was also practical and affordable.

The Karmann Ghia was built on the reliable Volkswagen Beetle platform, and it was powered by the same air-cooled, four-cylinder engine. The car had a sleek and aerodynamic design that was achieved by lowering the roofline and curving the windshield and rear window. The Karmann Ghia also featured a distinctive front grille and sleek body lines that made it stand out from other cars on the road.

The Karmann Ghia was available in two models: the coupe and the convertible. The coupe was introduced in 1955, and the convertible followed in 1957. Both models had similar body designs, but the convertible had a folding soft top that could be lowered or raised depending on the weather.

The Karmann Ghia was known for its excellent handling and comfortable ride. The car’s suspension was tuned for a sporty ride, and the low center of gravity made it easy to handle. The Karmann Ghia also had a spacious interior that could comfortably seat four adults. The car’s interior was designed with comfort and style in mind, and it featured bucket seats, a dash-mounted clock, and a three-spoke steering wheel.

Over the years, the Karmann Ghia underwent several design changes. In 1958, the car received a new engine that increased its horsepower from 30 to 36. In 1961, the car received a new front grille and bumper, and the rear lights were relocated to the top of the rear fenders. In 1966, the car received another design update that included new front and rear styling, a redesigned dashboard, and a new 1.6-liter engine that produced 50 horsepower.

Despite its popularity, the Karmann Ghia was never a high-performance car. It was designed as a stylish and reliable car that was affordable for the average person. However, the Karmann Ghia did have a loyal following among car enthusiasts who appreciated its unique design and excellent handling.

The Karmann Ghia was discontinued in 1974 after a 19-year production run. During that time, more than 440,000 Karmann Ghias were built, making it one of Volkswagen’s most successful models. Today, the Karmann Ghia is considered a classic car, and it has a dedicated following among car collectors and enthusiasts.

If you’re interested in owning a Karmann Ghia, there are a few things you should know. First, the car’s body is made of steel, which means that it is susceptible to rust. If you’re looking to buy a Karmann Ghia, be sure to inspect the car’s body for rust and other signs of wear and tear. Second, the car’s engine is air-cooled, which means that it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Finally, the Karmann Ghia is a classic car, which means that parts can be difficult to find and expensive to replace.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is a classic car that combines the reliability of the Volkswagen platform

The classic car market in the USA has always been a fascinating and dynamic industry, driven by the passion and nostalgia of collectors and enthusiasts. From vintage roadsters to muscle cars, classic cars are more than just vehicles – they are symbols of automotive history and culture.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the classic car market in the USA in 2023, examining the trends, opportunities, and challenges that define this exciting industry.

The Past: The History of Classic Cars in the USA

The history of classic cars in the USA is a rich and varied one, spanning over a century of automotive innovation and design. From the early days of the Ford Model T to the muscle car era of the 1960s and 1970s, American cars have always had a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts.

During the 1980s and 1990s, the classic car market in the USA experienced a significant boom, driven by a growing interest in vintage and exotic cars. This led to a surge in prices, with many classic cars fetching top dollar at auctions and private sales.

The Present: The State of the Classic Car Market in 2023

In 2023, the classic car market in the USA is still going strong, despite some fluctuations in prices and demand over the past decade. According to a recent report by Hagerty, a leading insurer and valuation company for classic cars, the total value of the classic car market in the USA is estimated to be around $350 billion.

One of the key trends in the classic car market in 2023 is the growing interest in electric and hybrid classic cars. With concerns over climate change and fuel efficiency on the rise, many collectors and enthusiasts are looking for more sustainable and eco-friendly options. This has led to a surge in popularity for electric classic cars such as the Tesla Roadster and the Rimac C_Two.

Another trend in the classic car market in 2023 is the increasing importance of online sales and auctions. With the rise of e-commerce and digital platforms, more and more classic car buyers and sellers are turning to online marketplaces to buy and sell their cars. This has opened up new opportunities for collectors and investors, as well as creating new challenges and risks.

The Future: The Outlook for the Classic Car Market in the USA

Looking ahead to the future of the classic car market in the USA, there are both opportunities and challenges on the horizon. On the one hand, the growing interest in electric and hybrid classic cars could lead to a whole new generation of collectors and enthusiasts, as well as opening up new markets and opportunities for investors.

On the other hand, there are concerns over the long-term sustainability of the classic car market, particularly in light of changing attitudes towards climate change and environmental issues. There is also the risk of a market downturn or crash, as we have seen in the past.

Despite these challenges, however, the classic car market in the USA is likely to remain a vibrant and exciting industry for many years to come. Whether you are a collector, enthusiast, or investor, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make your mark on this unique and fascinating industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the classic car market in the USA is a dynamic and ever-changing industry, driven by passion, nostalgia, and innovation. From the early days of the Ford Model T to the electric cars of the future, classic cars continue to capture the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

In 1961, Citroën provided DS19 chassis to coachbuilder Henri Chapron to produce a new model, the Décapotable. Using the longer chassis of the Safari, Chapron left the standard mechanicals, front wings, windshield and wheels in place but redesigned the rear quarters to allow for a lower and sleeker look than that of the standard DS saloon. Despite Citroën initially rejecting Chapron’s initial concept for an open-top DS, he persevered and his first cabriolet was displayed at the 1958 Paris Salon and proved to be a hit. Chapron went on to build over 1800 DS-based vehicles, including saloons and coupés such as the Palm Beach, Le Dandy, Croisette, and Lorraine. Today, these iconic Citroëns are still known for their unique suspension system and unmatched driving experience, although the early cars were fitted with a solid but underpowered 1911cc four-cylinder engine. Later models featured improved engines and fuel injection options. As traditional coachbuilding work began to decline, Chapron saw a new direction with the launch of the Citroën DS in 1955 and went on to become one of the most influential French designers of the era.

HENRI CHAPRON (1886–1978)

Henri Chapron is most commonly associated with Citroën, particularly for his work on the Décapotable versions of the iconic DS. However, it was not an easy journey to get the open-top DS into production. Initially, Citroën rejected Chapron’s design, but the designer’s perseverance paid off, and the eventual appearance of the Décapotable was the result of his persistence. But before Chapron’s association with Citroën, he had a long and successful career in the motoring industry.

Chapron began as an upholsterer’s apprentice in Paris and established his own business in 1919 in Neuilly-sur-Seine, where he gained fame for rebodying Model T Fords left behind by American troops after WWI. In 1923, the company moved to larger premises in Levallois-Perret, and Chapron became one of the most influential French designers of his time. He created coach-built bodies for many prestigious automakers, including Ballot, Chenard-Walcker, Delage, Panhard-Levassor, Bugatti, and Hispano-Suiza. Still, his company really made a name for itself with the iconic coachwork on Delahaye chassis, especially the 135 models.

During WWII, traditional coachbuilding work came to a halt, and the company survived by doing repair work. After the war, Chapron’s business boomed again, and the company designed and produced bodies for many luxury automakers. However, the days of traditional coachbuilding were coming to an end as unitary bodies became more popular and new tax legislation in France penalized luxury cars. Despite this, Chapron saw a way forward with the 1955 launch of the Citroën DS.

Chapron recognized the significance of the DS and approached Citroën to supply chassis for a cabriolet version, but the factory had plans to produce their own convertible. Undeterred, Chapron bought a new DS saloon from a local dealer and designed the first Chapron cabriolet, which was an instant hit at the 1958 Paris Salon. Despite Citroën’s initial refusal, they eventually cooperated with Chapron and provided DS19 chassis for him to produce the “Décapotable usine” (factory convertible) in 1961.

Using the longer chassis of the Safari, Chapron left the standard mechanicals, front wings, windshield, and wheels in place but reinforced the floor and lengthened the doors by 18cm. The rear quarters were a new design by Chapron, allowing for a sleeker look than the standard DS saloon. Over the following years, Chapron built over 1800 DS-based vehicles, including convertibles, saloons, and coupés such as the Palm Beach, Le Dandy, Croisette, and Lorraine.

While Citroën eventually produced their own factory convertible, it is the 1365 DS19/DS21 Décapotable models built by Chapron between 1960 and 1971 that are most coveted by collectors and command the highest prices. Henri Chapron died in 1978, and his company was run by his widow until it closed in 1985 after building bespoke vehicles for several more years.

A PASSION FOR CITROËN

Laurie Newhook’s love for Citroën began when he met his future wife, Judy, as a teenager, and her father owned a Citroën Light 15. However, his connection with the French brand started earlier when his maternal grandfather purchased a new Light 15 but passed away before taking delivery. Laurie acquired a 1939 Light 12 as his student car and sold it later for a profit. Since then, he has owned almost 20 different Citroëns, including a CX Turbo 2, one of his favorites.

Recently, Laurie’s passion for classic Citroëns led him to purchase a 1972 SM, a rare coupé built during Citroën’s brief association with Maserati. After locating an example fully restored by retired Australian racing driver Peter McLeod, Laurie has kept the car in top condition with the help of Bishop’s Garage in Auckland. The car won the best example award at the Citroën Car Club of NZ’s centenary rally in 2020.

Laurie’s desire to own a DS, particularly one of the rarer versions designed by Henri Chapron, led him to set his sights on one of these rare cars. He knew he had to look overseas and be prepared to spend a significant amount of money, as collectors highly sought after these vehicles. Ultimately, Laurie went to Bonham’s ‘Les Grandes Marques à Monaco’ auction in April 2021, where he bid on Lot 110, a 1967 Citroën DS21 Décapotable, chassis #4600088.

LAURIE’S DS21 DÉCAPOTABLE

The Citroën that caught Laurie’s attention in Bonham’s online auction was manufactured in November 1967 by Citroën and delivered by Chapron the following month to Canada. It was fitted with special features designed to suit the colder climate of Canada, such as cold-weather heating and a more powerful alternator to manage additional electrical needs. Equipped with a 2.1-liter engine and Citroën’s four-speed, semi-automatic gearbox, the DS21 was a 1967 model and had directional headlights. This car’s hydro-pneumatic system runs on green LHM fluid since the switch from the original, red, vegetable-based hydraulic fluid in 1967.

This DS21 spent most of its driving life in Canada until its complete bodywork restoration by Netherlands Citroën specialist DS-Keyzer of Amsterdam in 2009. The car was originally painted in Vert Forêt, but DS-Keyzer repainted it in Bleu Antarctique, an original Chapron color, and reupholstered the interior in leather. The car owner, who had bought it from Alex von Mózer’s Dutch classic car dealership VSOC in 2014, then sent it to another Citroën specialist, Michel Boutias of L’Atelier 524 in Grenoble, France. L’Atelier 524 completed a major mechanical restoration of the Citroën, including a nut-and-bolt engine rebuild and a complete overhaul of the gearbox, hydraulic system, brakes, steering, and electrics. The total cost of the restoration work was a substantial €45,000 (NZ$71,820).

Before the auction, the DS21 was located in the South of France, where it was only used during the summer months. The car was sold with certificates of authenticity fro

AT THE AUCTION

At midnight in New Zealand, Laurie was among several potential buyers vying for the Citroën in an online auction. With his goal in sight, he was glued to his laptop screen and engaged in a bidding war until he finally emerged as the winning bidder, paying €195,500 (NZ$315,967) including buyer’s premium. When the car arrived in New Zealand, it appeared mechanically sound but was grubby after its long voyage. The Citroën passed compliance checks with flying colors, except for two blown brake light bulbs. Laurie sent the car to Bishop’s Garage for final touches before cruising on New Zealand’s roads.

The DS21 convertible is an iconic car that is both relaxing and comfortable for long-distance city-to-city touring. Its semiautomatic gearbox takes some getting used to, but the hydraulically powered steering and braking add to the car’s charm. Although Laurie’s Maserati V6-engined Citroën SM outperforms the DS21 convertible, the latter’s comfort and style make it an unforgettable classic. Laurie feels privileged to own the car and has no plans to elevate it to concours standards at present. He believes that his car is the only ‘facelift’ Chapron version in New Zealand, making it a definite keeper for him and his wife, Judy.