It's unclear what cars will and will-not be included at this point, but our assumption is, since the issue relates to possibly roadable cars being properly titled, it may impact concept and one-off specialty cars rather than important-production-run vehicles. Here's the statement from BJ:

We are very pleased to offer a group of specialty cars from GM during the Palm Beach Auction. However, we have been told there are some issues related to the sale of some of the vehicles, and that GM will be unable to resolve these issues in time to include them in the 2009 Palm Beach auction. This information was communicated to Barrett-Jackson at 4 pm EST on Thursday, April 9, 2009.

Barrett-Jackson regrets any inconvenience this may have caused to any of our customers. As always, our primary concern is protecting the best interests of the bidders, consignors and spectators of our auction events. We will provide additional information as it becomes available.

UPDATE: It turns out the auction will include all the cars as every issue has been resolved According to BJ:

"The Acting Administrator of NHTSA, Ron Medford, has communicated to Barrett-Jackson that previous issues concerning the sales of the GM Collection have been resolved and all sales can go forward."

The idea behind the auction was to free up some cash for GM by auctioning some near-classic cars like the 1-millionth Saturn. Among these vehicles were a few concept cars and other vehicles which had to be sold with salvage titles so no one would try to drive them on the street. This is a fairly normal practice and, according to Barrett-Jackson and GM, the companies were up front about this.

So why did G-Men stop the auction? The NHTSA were concerned people would try to register these vehicles for the street, though haven't given any indication why they think this. The relevant NHTSA offices are closed for Easter, so for now we'll have to wait and see if this is a case of overreaction or if the feds were onto something. It seems GM can't even sell cars to people lining up to buy them at auction. [Edmunds: Straightline

With so much metal at the auction coming from the sale of a selection of classics from the GM Heritage Center museum, it's interesting that the top eight cars that've been sold so far at the 2009 Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, AZ all came from that collection. Here's the top eight sales — so far.

8.) 1974 Pontiac Trans Am

Lot Number: 433
Details: This rotisserie restored, true, correct, and numbers matching Trans Am 455 Super Duty features photo documented 138560 numbers matching original 455cide Super Duty V8, correct 490132 block casting, correct Y8 block code stamp, Correct 1112205 3 A8 distributor stamping, correct 7044270 SF 2923 carburetor stamp, correct original 74-P 0-1213 automatic transmission, correct 3984828 13 40 2 74 ring gear stamp, correct GY G065 1 axle housing stamp, original Window Sticker, original dealer sales invoice, original odometer statement, copy of original title, original Auto Owner's Maintenance Folio, original owner's instruction and information manuals, original maintenance and safety manual, copy of second owner's title, dealer photos of original vehicle delivery, PHS documentation, and documents from the '73/'74 SD455 Registry. One of only 731 automatic transmission cars produced.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $73,700.00

7.) 2007 Chevrolet Silverado "Dale Earnhardt Jr. Big Red" SEMA Concept

Lot Number: 114
Details: The Dale Earnhardt Jr. "Big Red" Silverado is based on the all-new, 2007 Chevy Silverado crew cab and features custom exterior appointments, an off-road-ready suspension, one-off custom 20" wheels at Dale Jr.'s request, a custom interior and more. This one-of-a-kind Silverado builds on Earnhardt's personal notion of off-road enjoyment, which was previously conveyed in his personal truck - a previous-generation Silverado named "Big Red." Earnhardt collaborated with GM designers on the truck, visiting the GM Design studio in Warren, Mich. to discuss the exterior and interior enhancements, which include all-new front-end sheet metal and rear fenders, as well as a "flying bridge"-type roll bar with integrated off-road driving lamps. The interior is as luxurious as the exterior is off-road-capable, with rich, black leather upholstery and other details. The Dale Earnhardt Jr. "Big Red" Silverado is powered by GM Powertrain's 6.2 Liter Gen IV V8 engine, a high-output, all-aluminum engine with variable valve timing that produces 380hp and 417 lb/ft of torque. It transfers its power to all four wheels via a Hydra-Matic 4-speed electronically controlled transmission. The front and rear axles are equipped with 3.73 gears and Eaton ELocker electronic locking differentials, which help the truck deliver exhilarating performance with tall off-road tires. Stopping power is enhanced with a set of Baer disc brakes, including six-piston calipers and 15" cross-drilled rotors in the front and twin-piston floating calipers with 13" cross-drilled rotors in the rear. It's a concept, and like the others, is not legal for driving on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $88,000.00

6.) 2006 Pontiac GTO RA6 Custom

Lot Number: 738
Details: This specialty '06 GTO was a SEMA Show award winner by Kip Wasenko and the team at the GM Performance Division. It features RA6 body modifications and a Stage 3 750hp Twin Turbo Katech 402 engine with Pedders Extreme suspension and Z06 brake package. Apparently, this car can be driven on public roads — it doesn't say it can't!
Day Sold: Thursday, January 15, 2009
Sale Price*: $93,500.00

5.) 1989 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1

Lot Number: 96
Details: 1 of 83 1989 ZR-1s built and never released to the public. This car was used for media/press events and auto shows. Why'd this one go for a lower price then the other ZR-1 from '89? Probably because this one's painted purple. Also, like the other vehicles sold by GM here at the big B-J, this ZR-1 is not road legal.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $110,000.00

4.) 1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo "Intimidator" Show Car

Lot Number: 83
Details: A NASCAR-inspired show car that offered a glimpse of the 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo styling. Features aggressive styling cues and performance-enhancing technology. We like how it's a "street legal" car being sold on a Scrap Title — because, like most of the others, it's not able to be legally driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $148,500.00

3.) 1990 Chevrolet Corvette "Active" ZR-1 Prototype

Lot Number: 82
Details: This vehicle pioneered the advantages of "Active Suspension" and has GTP Corvette race car technology. Built at the Bowling Green Plant, this vehicle was developed as a prototype for a limited edition run in the 1990 model year. It may not be driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sale Price*: $150,700.00

2.) 1989 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 "Snake Skinner"

Lot Number: 396.1
Details: One of 83 production 1989 ZR-1s built in Bowling Green. This experimental light weight was aimed directly at maintaining Corvette's performance supremacy. With a 475hp LT5 V8 and less weight, this vehicle is GM Performance legend. Sold on a Scrap Title. May not be driven on public roads.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $176,000.0

1.) 1923 Oldsmobile Custom Touring Roadster

Lot Number: 397.2
Details: This Olds concept vehicle is powered by a 4.0 Liter DOHC V8 IMSA GTS-1 race engine with an automatic 4L60E transmission, Halibrand quick change 4.10 rear, 4-wheel independent suspension, rack & pinion power steering and Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes. Also, because, like the rest, it's a GM concept, it's not legal for driving on public roads.
Day Sold: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sale Price*: $220,000.00

*Includes 10% Buyer's Premium

[via Barrett-Jackson]

FORD DONATES THREE HIGH-PERFORMANCE VEHICLES TO BENEFIT JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION

* A 2010 Ford Shelby GT500, a 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor and a Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet will be available at the 38th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., with proceeds donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
* The auction will be shown live at approximately 10 p.m. Eastern on Saturday on SPEED

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan 14, 2009 – The sales of three special, high-performance Ford vehicles will benefit one key charity at the always-anticipated Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Ford is offering the purchase rights to the first retail version of the 540-horsepower 2010 Ford Shelby GT500, the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor offered to the public as well as the first Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet with the hood signed by several Ford drag racing legends, including John Force and Bob Glidden. Proceeds from the 38th annual auction, which will televised live at approximately 10 p.m. EST on Saturday on SPEED, will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

“We’re honored to assist the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation through these great Ford vehicles,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas.

“The Shelby GT500, SVT Raptor and Cobra Jet all will be eagerly sought by enthusiast collectors,” he added. “The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction is always a draw, and we’re proud to be a part of it and help a great cause at the same time.”

The GT500, Raptor and Cobra Jet are the latest examples of Ford’s commitment to performance vehicles, and their auction offering is the latest in a long-standing charity partnership. Last year, Ford donated a one-off Ford Shelby GT500KR with a glass roof to the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, and it sold for $550,000. Ford has raised more than $2 million for charity through its donations to car auctions in recent years.

The Ford Shelby GT500 and F-150 SVT Raptor being auctioned will be the first retail units sold of their respective makes, and the winning bidders can specify choice of color and other options.

Here’s what the winning bidders have to look forward to:

2010 Ford Shelby GT500

The new Shelby GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang – and offers a few surprises as well. Powering the Shelby GT500 is a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine producing 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. Upgrades to the twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission improve drivability and reduce NVH (noise, vibration, harshness).

The GT500 now combines its usual outstanding straight-line acceleration in gears 1-4 with improved fuel efficiency in its cruising gears. The new final drive ratio, from 3.31 to 3.55, enables improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios.

The new exterior design, which now features racing stripes on convertible models, is complemented by an all-new interior design brimming with upscale materials such as leather and Alcantara.

2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

The all-new F-150 SVT Raptor is a purpose-built, high-performance off-road truck versatile enough to take on the most-challenging desert adventures as well as the everyday commute. Ford, the definitive leader in tough trucks, now sets the bar for high-speed off-road performance.

Key to Raptor’s performance are the 12.1 inches of usable travel in the rear suspension and 11.2 in the front as well as FOX Racing Shox, the only internal bypass shocks available on a street truck. SVT changed the whole front suspension – axle, upper A arm, lower A arm, tie rod, half-shaft joints – to withstand the rigors of off-road performance. In addition, a wide suite of technology, including AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, and Integrated Trailer Brake Controller with Trailer Sway Control (optional) adds to customer confidence.

The 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor casts an imposing, unmistakable image anywhere. It is more than seven inches wider than the base F-150 and features distinctive marker lamps that are well-integrated into the front end as opposed to on top of the cab. When lit, Raptor’s imposing stance is immediately recognizable.

Ford ran a race version of the F-150 SVT Raptor in the grueling 41st Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 in November 2008, finishing third in the “Class 8” category. The pickup was entered into the race to test the durability and performance of the production version, to ensure that it is the ultimate OEM off-road performance truck. If the winning bidder does not want to put the truck through the rigorous paces of the Baja 1000, the point is, he or she could.

Visitors to the 38th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Ariz., can sign up for an on-site off-road ride in the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor with a veteran desert-racing driver.

Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet

How cool would it be to own a drag racer with a hood signed by the legendary John Force and other drag racing stars? Here’s your chance. The Mustang FR500CJ, known simply as the Cobra Jet, adds drag racing to the line of race-ready Mustang race cars.

For those interested in NHRA sportsmen drag racing, the Cobra Jet offers an affordable vehicle that can compete right off the truck and run in the 10-second range.

Designed by Ford Racing engineers, the Cobra Jet features a 400-hp 5.4-liter supercharged engine with a standard 6-speed manual transmission and a drag race wheel/tire combination. The Cobra Jet is NHRA-legal to 10.00 second ETs and has an NHRA Stock Eliminator legal interior and is approximately 3,300 lbs. The Cobra Jet also showcases a unique trim and appearance design and includes an optional graphics kit to distinguish itself. Offered for auction is a Cobra Jet coupe with the 6-speed manual transmission.

# # #

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 224,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit http://www.ford.com.

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. and Las Vegas. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.

[CarDomain]

We reported last month that GM would be auctioning off a large chunk of its Heritage Center collection at the Barrett-Jackson auctions in Scottsdale, Arizona. For those of you not keeping track, tonight at 7pm EST the Speed Channel will be broadcasting live this significant and historical auction. The Heritage Center collection will be auctioned off throughout the week ending on the Sunday, the 18th. Though not all of the vehicles will be auctioned this week. GM will be sending the remainder of the Heritage Center collection to Barrett-Jackson’s Palm Beach, Florida auction in April.

A sign of the Carpocalypse, yes, but there are over 1,000 vehicles at the Heritage and GM periodically auctions off duplicates or little used vehicles in order to sharpen the focus of the collection. A vast majority of the cars that’ll be auctioned were created for SEMA or were demonstration cars from various shows and no longer serve a purpose in the collection.

The Speed Channel broadcast schedule for the Barrett-Jackson auction is below along with the list of cars to be auctioned.

Tuesday
Jan 13, 2009 7:00PM EST
Wednesday
Jan 14, 2009 12:00AM EST & 7:00PM EST
Thursday
Jan 15, 2009 12:00AM EST & 7:00PM EST
Friday
Jan 16, 2009 12:00AM EST & 2:00PM EST
Saturday
Jan 17, 2009 2:00PM EST
Sunday
Jan 18, 2009 2:00PM EST

List of Cars To Be Auctioned
1955 Buick Century
Bolero
2001 Blackhawk
G6 Rolex Pace
2007 Corvette Indy Pace/copper
2008 Corvette Indy Pace/black
1918 Cadillac
1995 Riveria Convertible
1993 Allante Pace car
1996 Presidential Limo
1998 Popemobile
1999 Eldorod
Indy Pennzoil IRL #4 (yellow)
Indy Pennzoil Panther Racing (yellow)
2003 EXT - M
2004 CTS Super V
2004 SRX Hot Wheels
2004 SRX SEMA
2005 STS MCE Integration
2006 DTS Appearance Pkg
2007 Escalade Limo
2007 Escalade SEMA
2008 CTS Sport
LMP #8
1925 Chevrolet House Car (Blue/Black)
1948 Chevy I-5 Vortech
1960 Impala
1972 Impala
2004 M/C Rock&Roll Pace (blue/yellow)
1987 Chevrolet Sprint Turbo Convertible
1989 Corvette DR-1
1989 Corvette Snake Skinner
1989 Corvette Splash
1989 Corvette ZR-1
1989 Corvette ZR-1 (Dark Red)
1989 Corvette ZR-2 Big Doggie
1989 Tracker Boom Box
1989 Zonker
1990 Corvette Right Hand Steer
1990 Corvette ZR-1 Active
1991 Caprice Classic
1991 Corvette Convertible
1991 Syclone PPG Pace
1991 Tracker Dirt
1992 Corvette ZR-1 First Built (Red)
1992 Impala SS 510
1993 Camaro ZL-1 "572"
1993 Corvette LT-1 Spyder
1993 Typhoon
1994 Corvette (Teal)
1994 Impala SS 6 Speed
1994 Impala Wagon
1994 Tracker Kalahari
1995 Monte Carlo Led Sled
1995 Monte Carlo Pro Street
1996 Camaro Brickyard Pace
1997 Corvette Alpha Build
1997 Corvette Beta Build
1997 Corvette Tiger Shark
2005 M/C Rock&Roll Pace (red)
1997 Monte Carlo Intimidator
1998 Camaro Drag
1998 Corvette First Built
1998 Corvette X-plorers
1999 Corvette C5R Show Car
1999 Corvette Shark
1999 Silverado Tonka
2000 Corvette Z06 Race
2000 Monte Carlo Brickyard #3
2000 Tahoe K5
2001 Impala Low Rider
2001 Monte Carlo Drag
Silverado #17 GMAC Racetruck
2001 Silverado Intimidator SS (Black)
2006 Silverado Craftsman Pace Flex Fuel #2
2002 Camaro Police
2002 Cavalier 425 A/FX Drag
2002 Monte Carlo Looney Tunes Pace
2002 S-10 Little Red
2003 Aveo Xtreme
2003 Corvette Lemans Pace #3
2003 Monte Carlo Rock & Roll Race
2004 Aveo X-treme
2004 Colorado SS Dark Cherry
2004 Colorado Xtreme
2004 Colorado Z-71 Vision
2004 Corvette Indy Pace
2004 Impala SS Project Vehicle
2004 Malibu Maxx SS
2004 Malibu Xtreme 2004
2004 Monte Carlo Dale Earnhardt Jr.
2004 Monte Carlo Tony Stewart
2004 Silverado Speedway
Solstice "Jazz" Transformer Movie Vehicle
1969 Reggie Jackson Camaro (red)
1990 Beretta Indy Pace
2004 Escalade Pinnacle (black)
Holden Race Car #22 (red)
2000 STS Saftey
2007 Yukon "CSI Vegas" (used in filming of show)
2003 Rendezvous CXL
1998 Rivera (teal)
2005 Colorado CC Z71
2005 Corvette Atlantic
2005 Corvette Pacific
2005 Equinox Xtreme
2004 Suburban Quadsteer
2006 HHR Official Tailgate Crew
2006 HHR Open Air
2006 HHR Panel
2006 HHR Panel Tuner
2006 HHR Xplorer Scout
2006 HHR Yearone
1995 Aurora (red)
2007 Avalanche Z-71 Plus
2007 Corvette Z06 First Built (Red)
2007 HHR SS Panel Motor City (Flat Gray)
2007 Silverado "Big Red"
2007 Silverado CC Rally Sport
2007 Silverado Country Music
2007 Silverado E85 Handy Man
1985 Calais "MSU"
2007 Silverado OCC
2007 Silverado Roadside
2007 SilveradoZ71 Orange
2007 Suburban HD Diesel
2007 Suburban Major League Baseball (Blue)
2007 Tahoe Foose
2007 Tahoe US Ski Team
Camaro Trans Am 2 seater
C/K 1500 Supertruck Chevy 2 Seat
Camaro GTZ
Camaro LT5
Corvette C5 Display Chassis
Corvette Purple Smash
Corvette Racing Boat
Corvette Trailer
Corvette ZR1 Rolling Chassis
HHR Floral
Holden Race Car (Red)
Kappa Chassis
S-10 Drag
S-10 Off Road Truck
S-10 Race Truck (Red)
S-10 Stadium Truck
2003 Centieme Concept
1916 GMC Stake Truck
1917 GMC Trailer
1948 GMC Firetruck
1978 GMC Suburban (Brown/Cream)
2003 Rollback
2004 Canyon Kayak
2004 Envoy Race Truck
2004 Envoy Water Sports
2007 Sierra All Terrain Crew
2007 Sierra HD Denali
Caprice "Fire & Rescue"
2007 Sierra Texas Edition
2007 Yukon Denali Jay-Z (Blue)
2007 Yukon XL Big Max
2007 Yukon All Terrain
2003 Hummer Spring Special
2005 Hummer Dirt Sport
2005 Hummer H2 Slant Back
2006 H3 street
2006 HHR Spring Special (Cappucino Frost)
2007 H2 Safari
2008 H3R SEMA
1994 Corvette HO
Corvette ZR 1 Snake Skinner
1904 Olds Touring Runabout
1923 Olds
1931 Olds Chassis
1940 Olds Blue
1949 Olds (Green)
1954 Olds Ninety Eight
1960 Olds 88 (White)
1970 Cutlass SX
1970 Olds 442 W30
1977 Olds Delta 88 Indy Pace
1995 Cutlass Darth Vadar
1995 Cutlass Mobil Net Race
1998 Intrigue 1998 (Blue)
1999 Intrigue 442
1999 Silhouette OSV #2
2001 Bravada Indy Pace
2002 Intrigue Last 2002
Aurora Exxon Race GTS (Gold/White)
Aurora IRL Race Car Cut-Away #5
Aurora IRL Race Car Cut-Away #5
1985 Peugeot 205 Turbo (Gray)
1985 Peugeot 205 Turbo Active (Gray)
1926 Pontiac
1926 Pontiac (Gray/Black)
1968 Pontiac Cataline (White)
1969 Pontiac GTO (Green)
1969 Pontiac GTO Judge (Orange/Yellow)
1980 Pontiac Grand Am Pickup
1994 Firebird Lingenfelter 383
1999 Grand Am SCT
2003 Sunfire X-plores (Yellow)
2006 Solstice DTP (Orange)
1967 GTO XXX Hardtop
1984 Fiero GT 2+2
1986 Firebird Trans Am Kamback
1987 Fiero GT Convertible
1991 Firebird Trans Am Twin Turbo
1993 Firebird IMSA Race car
1994 Firebird Firmula V8
1994 Firebird Trans Am 25th Ann.
1998 Firebird Trans Am Gold Rush
1998 Firebird Trans Am X-plorers
1998 Grand Prix M&M Pace
2000 Bonneville Salt Flats
2000 Firebird Rytek Project
2000 Firebird Trans Am Darth Vader
CTS-VR Race Replica (black)
2001 Aztek First Built (Black)
2001 Aztek Pace #1 (Red)
2001 Aztek SRV
2002 Firebird Trans Am Daytona Pace #2
2003 Grand AM Autocross
2003 Vibe Autocross Sema
2003 Vibe FX
2004 Grand Prix GXP SEMA
2004 GTO 1st built
2005 Firedbird Trans Am Collectors Ed.
2005 GTO SEMA
2006 Solstice Red Bull Drifter
2006 Solstice Weekend Racer
Fiero Goodwrench Race
Grand Am #85 race car
Grand Prix (show car)
GTO Drag Performance Parts
Firebird Mobil Race Car
1991 Saturn 4 Door 1991 (White)
1995 Saturn 1 Millionth
1999 Saturn 2 Millionth
2004 Ion Red Line
2004 Ion Red Line
2004 Ion Red Line
2004 Saturn Vue Spring Special
2004 Vue Red Line Street Play
Saturn Lola Race Car
1999 Grand Prix GT (red)
Regal Cielo Open Air
2001 Regal GNX
2002 Rendezvous Inca Trail (grey)
2002 Rendezvous Tour Edition SC
GTP Ultrlite (teal)
900 Pikes Peak
Malibu Friday Night Cruiser

[via SpeedTV]

The one-off 1989 "Zonker" 2-door Geo Metro was apparently a personal project car for ex-GM Design VP, Chuck Jordan. Created as a styling exercise and painted in p***y magnet yellow, this hot little number will be auctioned off at the Barrett-Jackson auction on January 13th along with the rest of the GM Heritage Center cars. We'll likely pass up the ZR1 rolling chassis for this little number.
(Hat Tip To Matthew!)

[via Barrett-Jackson]

Basically, GM's auctioning off anything they can semi-easily buy another one of when (hopefully) times get better. Smarter move than auctioning off the rest of the more-priceless classics they've got in their Warren-based Heritage Center, like the dozens of completely irreplaceable and one-off concept cars. Of course, they could probably get more for those. Maybe they're next if times get even more tight.

While the list appears heavily stacked towards the 1990s and 2000s, that doesn’t mean there aren’t older vehicles on it. Check out the 1904 Oldsmobile Touring Runabout for an example. Us? We’re hoping the Gawker Non-Denominational Winter Holiday Bonus is big enough for one of the 1989 Corvette ZR-1s.

Still, we're hearing the final list of vehicles for sale is not-yet-complete. Maybe some of the more precious will go live to buy.

The Barrett-Jackson auction runs from January 13-19, 2009 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Break out the piggy banks.

List of Cars
1955 Buick Century
Bolero
2001 Blackhawk
G6 Rolex Pace
2007 Corvette Indy Pace/copper
2008 Corvette Indy Pace/black
1918 Cadillac
1995 Riveria Convertible
1993 Allante Pace car
1996 Presidential Limo
1998 Popemobile
1999 Eldorod
Indy Pennzoil IRL #4 (yellow)
Indy Pennzoil Panther Racing (yellow)
2003 EXT - M
2004 CTS Super V
2004 SRX Hot Wheels
2004 SRX SEMA
2005 STS MCE Integration
2006 DTS Appearance Pkg
2007 Escalade Limo
2007 Escalade SEMA
2008 CTS Sport
LMP #8
1925 Chevrolet House Car (Blue/Black)
1948 Chevy I-5 Vortech
1960 Impala
1972 Impala
2004 M/C Rock&Roll Pace (blue/yellow)
1987 Chevrolet Sprint Turbo Convertible
1989 Corvette DR-1
1989 Corvette Snake Skinner
1989 Corvette Splash
1989 Corvette ZR-1
1989 Corvette ZR-1 (Dark Red)
1989 Corvette ZR-2 Big Doggie
1989 Tracker Boom Box
1989 Zonker
1990 Corvette Right Hand Steer
1990 Corvette ZR-1 Active
1991 Caprice Classic
1991 Corvette Convertible
1991 Syclone PPG Pace
1991 Tracker Dirt
1992 Corvette ZR-1 First Built (Red)
1992 Impala SS 510
1993 Camaro ZL-1 "572"
1993 Corvette LT-1 Spyder
1993 Typhoon
1994 Corvette (Teal)
1994 Impala SS 6 Speed
1994 Impala Wagon
1994 Tracker Kalahari
1995 Monte Carlo Led Sled
1995 Monte Carlo Pro Street
1996 Camaro Brickyard Pace
1997 Corvette Alpha Build
1997 Corvette Beta Build
1997 Corvette Tiger Shark
2005 M/C Rock&Roll Pace (red)
1997 Monte Carlo Intimidator
1998 Camaro Drag
1998 Corvette First Built
1998 Corvette X-plorers
1999 Corvette C5R Show Car
1999 Corvette Shark
1999 Silverado Tonka
2000 Corvette Z06 Race
2000 Monte Carlo Brickyard #3
2000 Tahoe K5
2001 Impala Low Rider
2001 Monte Carlo Drag
Silverado #17 GMAC Racetruck
2001 Silverado Intimidator SS (Black)
2006 Silverado Craftsman Pace Flex Fuel #2
2002 Camaro Police
2002 Cavalier 425 A/FX Drag
2002 Monte Carlo Looney Tunes Pace
2002 S-10 Little Red
2003 Aveo Xtreme
2003 Corvette Lemans Pace #3
2003 Monte Carlo Rock & Roll Race
2004 Aveo X-treme
2004 Colorado SS Dark Cherry
2004 Colorado Xtreme
2004 Colorado Z-71 Vision
2004 Corvette Indy Pace
2004 Impala SS Project Vehicle
2004 Malibu Maxx SS
2004 Malibu Xtreme 2004
2004 Monte Carlo Dale Earnhardt Jr.
2004 Monte Carlo Tony Stewart
2004 Silverado Speedway
Solstice "Jazz" Transformer Movie Vehicle
1969 Reggie Jackson Camaro (red)
1990 Beretta Indy Pace
2004 Escalade Pinnacle (black)
Holden Race Car #22 (red)
2000 STS Saftey
2007 Yukon "CSI Vegas" (used in filming of show)
2003 Rendezvous CXL
1998 Rivera (teal)
2005 Colorado CC Z71
2005 Corvette Atlantic
2005 Corvette Pacific
2005 Equinox Xtreme
2004 Suburban Quadsteer
2006 HHR Official Tailgate Crew
2006 HHR Open Air
2006 HHR Panel
2006 HHR Panel Tuner
2006 HHR Xplorer Scout
2006 HHR Yearone
1995 Aurora (red)
2007 Avalanche Z-71 Plus
2007 Corvette Z06 First Built (Red)
2007 HHR SS Panel Motor City (Flat Gray)
2007 Silverado "Big Red"
2007 Silverado CC Rally Sport
2007 Silverado Country Music
2007 Silverado E85 Handy Man
1985 Calais "MSU"
2007 Silverado OCC
2007 Silverado Roadside
2007 SilveradoZ71 Orange
2007 Suburban HD Diesel
2007 Suburban Major League Baseball (Blue)
2007 Tahoe Foose
2007 Tahoe US Ski Team
Camaro Trans Am 2 seater
C/K 1500 Supertruck Chevy 2 Seat
Camaro GTZ
Camaro LT5
Corvette C5 Display Chassis
Corvette Purple Smash
Corvette Racing Boat
Corvette Trailer
Corvette ZR1 Rolling Chassis
HHR Floral
Holden Race Car (Red)
Kappa Chassis
S-10 Drag
S-10 Off Road Truck
S-10 Race Truck (Red)
S-10 Stadium Truck
2003 Centieme Concept
1916 GMC Stake Truck
1917 GMC Trailer
1948 GMC Firetruck
1978 GMC Suburban (Brown/Cream)
2003 Rollback
2004 Canyon Kayak
2004 Envoy Race Truck
2004 Envoy Water Sports
2007 Sierra All Terrain Crew
2007 Sierra HD Denali
Caprice "Fire & Rescue"
2007 Sierra Texas Edition
2007 Yukon Denali Jay-Z (Blue)
2007 Yukon XL Big Max
2007 Yukon All Terrain
2003 Hummer Spring Special
2005 Hummer Dirt Sport
2005 Hummer H2 Slant Back
2006 H3 street
2006 HHR Spring Special (Cappucino Frost)
2007 H2 Safari
2008 H3R SEMA
1994 Corvette HO
Corvette ZR 1 Snake Skinner
1904 Olds Touring Runabout
1923 Olds
1931 Olds Chassis
1940 Olds Blue
1949 Olds (Green)
1954 Olds Ninety Eight
1960 Olds 88 (White)
1970 Cutlass SX
1970 Olds 442 W30
1977 Olds Delta 88 Indy Pace
1995 Cutlass Darth Vadar
1995 Cutlass Mobil Net Race
1998 Intrigue 1998 (Blue)
1999 Intrigue 442
1999 Silhouette OSV #2
2001 Bravada Indy Pace
2002 Intrigue Last 2002
Aurora Exxon Race GTS (Gold/White)
Aurora IRL Race Car Cut-Away #5
Aurora IRL Race Car Cut-Away #5
1985 Peugeot 205 Turbo (Gray)
1985 Peugeot 205 Turbo Active (Gray)
1926 Pontiac
1926 Pontiac (Gray/Black)
1968 Pontiac Cataline (White)
1969 Pontiac GTO (Green)
1969 Pontiac GTO Judge (Orange/Yellow)
1980 Pontiac Grand Am Pickup
1994 Firebird Lingenfelter 383
1999 Grand Am SCT
2003 Sunfire X-plores (Yellow)
2006 Solstice DTP (Orange)
1967 GTO XXX Hardtop
1984 Fiero GT 2+2
1986 Firebird Trans Am Kamback
1987 Fiero GT Convertible
1991 Firebird Trans Am Twin Turbo
1993 Firebird IMSA Race car
1994 Firebird Firmula V8
1994 Firebird Trans Am 25th Ann.
1998 Firebird Trans Am Gold Rush
1998 Firebird Trans Am X-plorers
1998 Grand Prix M&M Pace
2000 Bonneville Salt Flats
2000 Firebird Rytek Project
2000 Firebird Trans Am Darth Vader
CTS-VR Race Replica (black)
2001 Aztek First Built (Black)
2001 Aztek Pace #1 (Red)
2001 Aztek SRV
2002 Firebird Trans Am Daytona Pace #2
2003 Grand AM Autocross
2003 Vibe Autocross Sema
2003 Vibe FX
2004 Grand Prix GXP SEMA
2004 GTO 1st built
2005 Firedbird Trans Am Collectors Ed.
2005 GTO SEMA
2006 Solstice Red Bull Drifter
2006 Solstice Weekend Racer
Fiero Goodwrench Race
Grand Am #85 race car
Grand Prix (show car)
GTO Drag Performance Parts
Firebird Mobil Race Car
1991 Saturn 4 Door 1991 (White)
1995 Saturn 1 Millionth
1999 Saturn 2 Millionth
2004 Ion Red Line
2004 Ion Red Line
2004 Ion Red Line
2004 Saturn Vue Spring Special
2004 Vue Red Line Street Play
Saturn Lola Race Car
1999 Grand Prix GT (red)
Regal Cielo Open Air
2001 Regal GNX
2002 Rendezvous Inca Trail (grey)
2002 Rendezvous Tour Edition SC
GTP Ultrlite (teal)
900 Pikes Peak
Malibu Friday Night Cruiser

[via HRFBody]

Will you get a fair market value for your car no matter where you sell it? Do certain cars do better in different environments? You'd have to think the best market for a seller will be one with the greatest access to potential buyers plus a low number of potential alternate choices. A rare Vette might do well at the Big BJ, but would your mom's six-year-old Liberty do as well? Would leaving it out at the Woodward Dream Cruise work better? What's the best deal you've gotten when selling a car and where did you sell it? Where is the best place to sell a car?

Big Red has a Cummins Turbo diesel engine connected to Allison automatic transmission with a Spicer transfer case. Those tires are 66 x 43 x 25. The 1937 body and frame are all original. Back in the day, this was the first truck to pump 600 gallons per minute. Amazing. [Barrett-Jackson]

My personal favorite car being auctioned is Paulie Walnuts' 2003 Cadillac CTS. Yes, this is the same CTS that he used to do donuts in and destroy Christopher Moltisanti's front yard during season six.

Also in the auction is a 1997 Mercury Villager minivan driven by Tony and Paulie as well as a black Cadillac Deville driven by Vito Spatafore. Also a pair of blue Lincoln Town Cars used by Phil Leotardo and the Lupertazzi family will be sold as a pair.

Oddly enough, all of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. I would think a stripper rehabilitation or maybe a gun buyback program would be better programs for the proceeds. Bada bing!

VEHICLES FROM HBO'S "THE SOPRANOS" TO HIT THE BLOCK AT BARRETT-JACKSON PALM BEACH

Net Proceeds from "The Sopranos" Cars to Benefit Childrens Hospital Los Angeles

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., February 28, 2008 - Cars and SUVs driven by the famous TV mobsters on "The Sopranos" will be sold at No Reserve during the 6th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on March 26-30, 2008, in West Palm Beach, Fla. A total of eight vehicles from the award winning HBO series will cross the block, led by Tony Soprano's 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV, with net proceeds benefiting Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. SPEED will once again bring the action home with 19 hours of TV coverage during the auction as approximately 600 of the finest collector vehicles are sold at No Reserve. For the sixth consecutive year, the event will take place at the spacious Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds, located at 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach.

"From the biggest show on television to the biggest stage in the collector car industry, these movie star vehicles will demand the spotlight in Palm Beach," said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "A staple in American pop culture, 'The Sopranos' captured the attention of viewers across the globe, much like Barrett-Jackson events are watched by devoted car enthusiasts worldwide on SPEED. We're thrilled to join forces with HBO for this special project to help raise funds for Childrens Hospital Los Angeles."

The signature piece of "The Sopranos" collection is the white 2003 Cadillac Escalade driven by mob boss Tony Soprano during the final three seasons of the series. Scheduled for sale during SPEED's primetime coverage on Saturday, March 29, the fully loaded Escalade has only 11,000 miles on the odometer and features clear, untinted windshields for exterior camera shots of the show's leading character.

Another high-profile car headed to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach is the champagne 2003 Cadillac CTS utilized by one of Tony's top soldiers, Paulie Walnuts. The CTS is infamous for its demolition of Christopher Moltisanti's new front yard in the "Kennedy and Heidi" episode during Season 6. Two more vehicles that played key roles in Season 6, a red 1997 Mercury Villager minivan driven by Tony and Paulie and a black Cadillac Deville driven by crew member Vito Spatafore, will also be sold.

"When a TV series becomes as popular as 'The Sopranos,' the cars driven by the larger-than-life characters become stars as well," added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. "Another factor that adds to the value of these celebrity vehicles is the 'staying power' of the series. Decades from now, 'The Sopranos' will still be appreciated as one of the top series in TV history, making these star cars significant well into the future."

A pair of blue Lincoln Town Cars, utilized by rival gangster Phil Leotardo and the New York-based Lupertazzi crime family, will be sold as a pair in Palm Beach. The two cars were featured in numerous episodes of "The Sopranos," most notably in the climactic Bada Bing shootout scene in "The Blue Comet" episode during Season 6. Additional cars from that high-energy scene that will be auctioned include two 1993 Cadillacs driven by Patsy Parisi, which will be sold together.

With net proceeds benefiting Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, "The Sopranos" vehicles will join a long list of cars in Palm Beach that will be auctioned for charity. On March 26, Barrett-Jackson will host their annual Opening Night Gala to raise money for The Darrell Gwynn Foundation and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. During the 2007 Palm Beach event, Barrett-Jackson raised over $500,000 for various charities.

Own the first production Limited Edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 to come off the assembly line. Proceeds of the sale to benefit notMYkid Charity. Dodge Challenger is back after nearly 35 years and you could own the first vehicle before it's even produced. Bid for Dodge Challenger #1,the first production Challenger to come off the assembly line for direct sale to the U.S. Dodge dealer network. The #1 Challenger includes all production options including a 6.1 Liter V8 engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, sunroof, navigation and performance tires. The vehicle will be identified by a dash plaque indicating #1 of the Limited Edition production. You have seen the concept and rest assured the production model is true not only to the Challenger concept but also Challenger's heritage. Five "teaser" photos of the production car have been released showcasing the notable styling elements that are sure to please. The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 - the ultimate modern American muscle coupe will make its worldwide debut at the Chicago Auto Show on February 6, 2008. In addition to receiving the rights to the first production Challenger, the winning bidder also receives: Two VIP passes to the May 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 NASCAR race at Darlington Raceway complete with airfare and lodging, a meet and greet with Kyle Petty at the Dodge Challenger 500 in Darlington, May, 2008 and a Dodge Motorsports prize pack with vehicle delivery. The vehicle will be delivered to the Dodge Dealer of choice in the United States no later than May 31, 2008. All Proceeds from Dodge Challenger No. 1 will benefit notMYkid - an organization dedicated to facilitating improved understanding about youth behavioral health issues including suicide, drug abuse, eating disorders and depression. notMYkid was founded in 2000, and is designed to educate parents about youth and adolescent substance abuse, eating disorders, suicide, ADHD, depression, and more. Information is available on the website www.notMYkid.org to educate parents about the warning signs and symptoms and to empower them to implement effective prevention and intervention strategies. In 2006, notMYkid reached 80,000 parents and students nationwide. The organization offers several programs for parent education as well as peer-to-peer youth programs.

From Rumor to Instant Legend in the Blink of an Eye. Chevrolet presents the very "First Retailable Unit Built" Corvette ZR-1 for auction at Barrett-Jackson on Saturday, January 19, 2008 with all proceeds from the auction will benefit The United Way. GM AND BARRETT-JACKSON MAKES NO WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, CONCERNING THE VEHICLE (INCLUDING NO WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE).

Dave Ressler of Ressler Chevrolet of Mandan, North Dakota was destined to be in the automotive sales business.

"You can say I was inspired because of my dad who was a car salesman for 25 years," said Ressler of his dad, Chris, who died in 1977 and worked at Bob Chase Chevrolet. "From the day that my dad passed away, Bob kept calling and wanting to hire me."

He eventually did.

In 1972, Chase moved into the facility Ressler now occupies. It was Mandan's only Chevrolet dealership at that time - a distinction it still holds today and is home to 21 employees. In 1980, Chase sold to Ivan Gandrud, who held the store until 1988. Thirty people were working for Chase when the business changed hands. And in 1988, Ressler bought the dealership and hasn't looked back.

Ivan started with 30 employees and took it up to roughly 55 when he sold.

With Ressler it went from 55 to over 130 employees.

Ressler is pretty proud of the growth of his business. He's proud, and justifiably so, of a lot of things.

"I'm probably the youngest car dealer in the two towns," he said. "I started when I was 32. I work hard at what I do. I'm a workaholic. I really don't know how I got that way. Maybe I got it from my dad."

The hard work has paid off.

Ressler said his dealership has received eight Customer Choice Awards over the lasts 6 years. He said this is an accomplishment achieved by no other Chevrolet Dealership anywhere.

"The awards are based on customer satisfaction," he said. "We do not get any extra money for this. It's a 'wow' effect, I guess. It tells us we're all doing a good job."

Ressler said he expects a lot of himself and the same from his employees.

"We have a mission statement that we all work by," he said. "There are five critical areas that we focus on everyday."

They are:

Customer Satisfaction
Employee Enthusiasm
Market Leadership
Ongoing Improvement
Financial Performance
"If we work hard at these five things everyday, we know that we're doing a good job," he said. "It's important to have our employees focused on the right things."

Ressler said he's a hands-on employer - he can't help himself being the workaholic that he is - and enjoys being involved in the daily activities. But there certainly must be a point when he has to slow down, take a break and say "enough already."

But, that's not going to happen anytime soon. In March of 1999, Ressler moved to Bozeman, MT. and acquired a Chevrolet-Oldsmobile-Cadillac-Toyota dealership. "I'm back in the day-to-day," says Ressler, spending about half his time in Bozeman, and the other half in Mandan.

The Bozeman store, which employs 85 people, believes in the same values as the Mandan store. Because of this, it enjoys being the leader in the Gallatin Valley with more new/used car sales, service, parts sales and body shop service than any other dealer in the valley.

"Selling BEST PRICE has been well accepted, along with Saturday service and parts sales," says Ressler. "I'm having a blast and business is great at both stores. Enough isn't enough, I guess. I'm not going to stop. I'm chasing to be the best of the best!"

You are now embarking on the purchase of a life time, the opportunity to own and operate "The World's Largest Robot", Robosaurus, the ICON of robotics worldwide. This 40' tall, 31 ton mechanical dinosaur has thrilled crowds throughout the World since his birth in 1990 after two years of construction. Robosaurus would cost over 5 million dollars to develop and build today. Robosaurus in action is every child at heart's dream. The crowd feels the heat of 20' flames shooting from the giant nostrils and hears the sound of crunching metal as the foot high stainless steel teeth rip into a car with 20,000lbs of crushing force. Robo laughs and roars as the car easily rips apart. You, as the operator, feel the thrill of tearing a car in half, incinerating it and throwing it to the ground in flaming pieces. Buy this for your kids, your grand kids and best of all, the child in you. All this and you own a one-of-a-kind that has not even come close to being duplicated in the last 17 years of Robo's existence. Check out the amazing technology of Robosaurus and you will be enthralled by this state-of-the-art "Mechanical Wonder of the World". In addition to Robosaurus, you will receive the full show equipment including three racing radios, remote control special effects board, Telex transmitter and receiver system, HAM-band TV Station for live broadcast to pilot, Hi-8 video camera, programming console for on-board animation computer system, tool kit for loading and unloading, service, maintenance and operation manuals, touch-up paint and numerous transport cases. Other spare parts, shop equipment, materials, and the Semi-tractor for towing are available by separate treaty. Full maintenance and driver training available. Robo transforms into a 48ft semi trailer that is street legal in North America. Comes with current California trailer title. **This Lot is sold on a Bill of Sale. Special conditions will apply.**

For the first time in the nearly 40 years, Ford Motor Company and Shelby Automobiles are partnering to build the Shelby GT500 KR in 2008. This new model of the popular Ford Mustang represents a new chapter in the history of the Ford Mustang and the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. When unveiled at the New York Autoshow in 2007, the car became an instant classic. On January 19th, the first GT500 KR offered for sale to the public will roll across the auction block. This 540hp limited edition Mustang will be one of approximately 1,000 built and the first and only car offered with a new "segment exclusive" feature that will be unveiled during the auction. All proceeds from the sale of this car will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Over the last three years Ford and Barrett-Jackson have raised over $1.8 million dollars for charity through the auction of Ford Motor Company Products. This new model will give the winning bidder an opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause while making automotive history.

"Mustang Monthly" July 2001 issue listed this car as the number one car on top of their "Top 10 Dream Cars" to own. A 1960's Shelby Cobra Mustang that has been owned by Carroll Shelby since new. A 5-year concours rotisserie restoration by nationally known Shelby restorer Jim Cowles completed in September 2007. Carroll Shelby only owns one other Shelby from the 1960's since new and that is the first Shelby AC Cobra, CSX2000.

Ever since "Monster Garage" premiered on Discovery Channel in June 2002, Jesse James led teams to build vehicles that make beer, do wheelies, shake trees, even transport gorillas. But all the while, Jesse was turning his thoughts and his dreams to the sky. Everyone said he couldn't do it, and the lawyers begged him not to do it, but Jesse James and his 9 man team managed to take a $100,000 Panoz Esperante sports car and create an airborne vehicle whose first flight matched the success of the Wright Brothers'. After the team tore out the Panoz's plush interior to make room for a roll cage, installed a used propeller engine in the trunk, mounted 36' handmade wings to the car's exact center and secured a rear tail with a 15" fuselage, the flying car was taken to Kitty Hawk, NC, home of the Wright Brothers' first flight. Under the power of the original Panoz engine, Jesse taxied the flying car onto the runway, started the propeller engine and, after hitting 80mph, guided the automobile off the ground for 280 feet, landing safely without even a scratch to the Red Baron paint job. THE DESIGNERS: Jesse James, custom-bike builder/designer, West Coast Choppers, Long Beach, CA, Fireball Tim, artist and car designer, Malibu, CA, Dan Panoz, founder and owner, Panoz Auto Development Company, Braselton, GA, Ed Sweeney, aircraft mechanic, Black Forest, CO, and Neal Willford, engineer, new product development, Cessna Aviation, Andover, KS. THE BUILDERS: Jesse James, custom-bike builder/designer, West Coast Choppers, Long Beach, CA, Jason Barnes, vehicle engineer, Panoz Auto Development Company, Flowery Branch, GA, Niclas Jancic, Panoz Auto expert, GA, Mark Palmer, aircraft-design engineer, Peru, KS, Ronnie Powers, airplane builder and owner, Atlanta Air Salvage, Griffith, GA, Johan Ragnarsson, custom-car builder, Beuford, GA, Chris Rusch, fabricator, Two Rivers, WI, Andre Stowe, welder and metal-shop owner, San Diego, CA, Ed Sweeney, aircraft mechanic, Black Forest, CO, JD Terry, avionics/electrical engineer, Cessna Aviation, Wichita, KS, and Neal Willford, aircraft engineer, Cessna Aviation, Andover, KS. VEHICLE SPECS: Height: 80"; Width: 38'; Length With Parts Extended: 26'; Ground Clearance: 2.5". **SOLD ON A BILL OF SALE ONLY. SPECIAL CONDITIONS APPLY**

5.) 1970 Chevy Chevelle LS6 SS - $177,500 4.) 1953 Buick Skylark - $155,000 3.) 1970 Hemi Cuda - $245,000 2.) 1956 Chevy Bel Air - $255.000 1.) 1932 Ford Custom Competition "Rollin Stone" - $320,000

ONE-OF-A-KIND 2008 FORD SHELBY GT500KR DRIVES EXCITEMENT AT BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION ON SATURDAY

* Ford and Shelby Automobiles to auction one-off Shelby GT500KR featuring a full glass roof to benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
* Ford Racing and Patrick Dempsey to auction off his No. 156 Ford Mustang FR500C, which the star raced in the Grand-Am KONI Challenge series

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Jan. 17, 2008 - A one-of-a-kind 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR will go on the block at this year's Barrett-Jackson auction: the only "King of the Road" model to feature a full glass roof. Continuing a Ford and Shelby tradition of charitable giving, proceeds from the auction will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

"Barrett-Jackson is an ideal venue to launch and sell Ford's premier models," said Robert Parker, Ford car marketing manager. "It's the ultimate platform for selling the world's most remarkable cars, and we've created a unique GT500KR just for the occasion."

Barrett-Jackson will feature an unprecedented stable of muscle cars, led by a vintage Mustang from each year in which performance legend Carroll Shelby and Ford Motor Company produced the street-ripping 1960s classics. The highlight of the crop will be Mr. Shelby's personal 1969 GT500 convertible, followed by a pristine 1967 GT500 originally gifted by Carroll to his son, Mike Shelby.

Muscle car enthusiasts are sure to tune in on SPEED TV this Saturday to watch Ford continue to lead the muscle car wars.

Shelby GT500KR with Glass Roof

The 540-horsepower Shelby GT500KR on the block at Barrett-Jackson is a unique rendition of the most powerful factory-built Mustang ever. Shelby GT500KR production began in Las Vegas on Jan. 11, Carroll Shelby's 85th birthday. The one-of-one ebony black GT500KR up for auction will feature the same full glass roof that is being offered as an option on the 2009 V-6 Mustang and Mustang GT models only.

The glass roof provides a third roof option for customers and responds to their growing desire for more natural light. The glass is tinted, which reduces both infrared rays and vehicle cool down time by 50 percent. Production of large sunroofs has increased nearly 200 percent in North America since 2003, according to Just-autos.com.

While the Shelby GT500KR coupe features racing stripes over the roof, the unique glass roof on the auction model features stripes etched directly into the glass.

"Barrett-Jackson will be a rare opportunity for one lucky bidder to own a Shelby GT500KR with a glass roof, a car no one else can even buy," said Carroll Shelby. "It's been too long, but I'm very excited to have the 'King of the Road' back."

"Only Ford Motor Company and Shelby American have sold more genuine Ford-powered Shelby vehicles than the Barrett-Jackson auction over the past 35 years," said Craig Jackson, president and CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. "I'm proud that Ford and Carroll Shelby chose to sell a one-of-a-kind 2008 Shelby GT500KR coupe at our auction, where only the finest, authentic Shelby vehicles are offered to the public."

Patrick Dempsey's Ford Mustang FR500C on the Block Saturday

In another exciting development, Ford Racing and Patrick Dempsey, the star of ABC's "Grey's Anatomy," also will auction the actor's No. 156 2005 Ford Mustang FR500C.

Dempsey drove the car in the 2007 Grand-Am KONI Challenge series for Hyper Sport Racing, a team he co-owns. Since its debut in 2005, the Mustang FR500C has earned seven poles, 10 wins, 92 top ten finishes and 25 podium appearances. Featuring a Ford Racing 5.0-liter Cammer R50 engine, it continues to be the road racing car of choice.

Dempsey will be on stage as bidders vie for this unique race Mustang. The winning bidder also will also receive a helmet, gloves, shoes, hero card and DVD box set of the third season of "Grey's Anatomy" signed by Dempsey. In addition, the winner will enjoy a track day with Hyper Sport Racing and a day for two at the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT.

Ford Exhibit Celebrates Speed

Building on a valued partnership, Ford plans to remain a key automotive sponsor of The Barrett-Jackson Auction series as a third venue is added in Las Vegas this October. As part of this sponsorship, Ford will bring interactive elements to Barrett-Jackson, including a drifting track, racing simulators and a dyno-simulated drag racing display.

This year, Ford will add a life-size Mustang collector's display which showcases a 'Steed for Every Need,' along with a new "Built Ford Tough" tent that houses Ford's feature vehicles. Consumers also can look forward to a few surprises. "We have found that experiential elements allow us to create a lot of memories for our current and future customers," said Parker.

Ford, Barrett-Jackson and Shelby: $1.7 Million Raised for Charity

During the past three years, Ford and Carroll Shelby have raised more than $1.7 million dollars for charity. Last year, the first 2007 Shelby GT Mustang was auctioned off at a winning big of $600,000. In 2006, an early production 2007 Shelby GT500 also sold for $600,000.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 250,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

About JDRF

JDRF was founded in 1970 by the parents of children with type 1 diabetes - a disease that strikes children, adolescents, and adults suddenly, makes them insulin-dependent for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. Since inception, JDRF has provided more than $1.16 billion to diabetes research worldwide. More than 85 percent of JDRF's expenditures directly support research and research-related education. JDRF's mission is constant: to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. For more information please visit www.jdrf.org

LotNumber 1316 Year 2009 CarMake CHEVROLET CarModel CORVETTE CarStyle ZR-1 CONVERTIBLE

"From Rumor to Instant Legend in the Blink of an Eye. Chevrolet presents the very "First Retailable Unit Built" Corvette ZR-1 for auction at Barrett-Jackson on Saturday, January 19, 2008 with all proceeds from the auction will benefit The United Way."

In addition to the Shelby goodies, the car will also include special door sill plates, special gas cap insert and an autographed photo! Our artist's rendering above of what we think the special "BJ" edition will look like. [Phoenix Biz Journal]

Sunday! Sunday! Sunday! See the fire-breathing Robosaurus auctioned off in Scottsdale! See the 40-foot tall metal monster move crush the crowded throngs of auction-goers! See the 20-foot long flames of fire engulf the entire auction facility in an inferno of epic proportions!

Robosaurus, the fire-breathing, car-crushing robot known for thrilling crowds across the globe, will be sold at No Reserve during the 37th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on Jan. 12-20, 2008, in Scottsdale, Ariz. The 31-ton mechanical dinosaur was constructed in 1990 and consigned by its original builders. Hailed as "The World's Greatest Collector Car Events(TM)," the Scottsdale auction will feature 1000 of the world's finest collector automobiles and lavish lifestyle events. As always, Speed Channel will broadcast live coverage of all six auction days.

"This is without a doubt the largest, nastiest, most intimidating piece of machinery that we've ever consigned at Barrett-Jackson," said Steve Davis, President of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "Robosaurus is the first Life Magazine cover 'star' that Barrett-Jackson has ever featured - awesome!"

Created by Monster Robots, Inc. of Southern California, Robosaurus is an entertainment legend with numerous TV and movie appearances. Standing 40-feet tall, Robosaurus is operated by a human pilot strapped inside the monster's cranium. The operator also controls the 20-foot flames that erupt from his nostrils and the foot-long stainless steel teeth that rip into and twist metal with 20,000 pounds of crushing force.

"Barrett-Jackson is entertainment for the entire family," added Davis. "Attractions like Robosaurus appeal to the kid in us all. Where else can you see a Ferrari Daytona and a fire-breathing monster in the same show and potentially even take them home? This diverse lineup helps us attract thousands of new bidders and enthusiasts to the collector car hobby every year."

Barrett-Jackson continually reaffirms its leadership position in the collector car market by elevating consignment standard and serving as the barometer for market trends. Barrett-Jackson recently announced that Portland-based Endeavour Capital purchased a significant minority share in the company, further validating the integrity and growth potential of the world's leading automotive/lifestyle event.

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 Events(TM)" in Scottsdale and Palm Beach, Fla.

37th Annual Barrett-Jackson Auction to Feature the World's Only 1963 Ford Thunderbird 'Italien'

The 1963 FORD Thunderbird ?Italien? concept car will be sold at No Reserve during the 37th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on Jan. 12-20, 2008, in Scottsdale, Ariz. Oozing with European panache from the aerodynamic roof line to the front and rear leather bucket seats, this one-off concept was an extreme departure from the traditional classics rolling out of Detroit in the early 1960s.

Hailed as ?The World?s Greatest Collector Car Events?,? the Scottsdale auction will feature 1000 of the world?s finest collector vehicles and lavish lifestyle events. As always, Speed Channel will broadcast live-coverage of all six auction days.

?It?s rare for such a classic concept to be offered at auction,? said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. ?The ?Italien? features design cues that were virtually nonexistent in the United States during its time of production. This could be the most sought after and significant Thunderbird to ever cross the block at Barrett-Jackson.?

The ?Italien? was designed and built by Vince Gardner at the Dearborn Steel Tubing Company, an outsourcing contractor responsible for various non-assembly line Ford concepts, including the 1964 Ford Thunderbolt and Mercury Super Cyclone. It was showcased in Ford?s 1962-63 ?Custom Car Caravan,? numerous Autoramas across the country and in the 1964 New York World Fair?s ?Cavalcade of Custom Cars.?

?The ?Italien? was born during an exciting period in automotive history,? added Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. ?In the ?50s and early ?60s, concept cars were showcased across the world in parade-like settings. This rare Thunderbird was a great attraction at many famous shows, and we plan to recreate that same exciting atmosphere in Scottsdale. When it hits the block in January, it will be the first documented public appearance since its showing at the World?s Fair in 1964.?

While most Ford concept cars were destroyed after their world tours, the ?Italien? was rescued by actor Dale Robertson of TV?s ?Tales of Wells Fargo,? ?Wagon Train? and ?JJ Starbuck.? Tom Maruska purchased it from noted Ford collector Don Chambers in January 2006, and immediately began its restoration to original specifications.

Barrett-Jackson continually reaffirms its leadership position in the collector car market by elevating consignment standard and serving as the barometer for market trends. Barrett-Jackson recently announced that Portland-based Endeavour Capital purchased a significant minority share in the company, further validating the integrity and growth potential of the world?s leading automotive/lifestyle event.

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 Events?? in Scottsdale and Palm Beach, Fla. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com

So Shelby's got themselves a GT-H Convertible and they auctioned off the very first rent-a-racer in 'vert form at the big classic car BJ down in Palm Beach. The GT-H drop-top's basically the same mechanically as the coupe — 319 HP, etc. The big difference in addition to the obviously droppable top is a rollbar and some big n' black Bullitt-style rims — the same as those seen on the black GT's Shelby's already selling direct to consumers. Only 500 will be built, and the other 499 will be auctioned off after they've served their terms at a Hertz rental station near you. The first one? Well — that one, as you can see above from SpeedTV, was auctioned off for $250,00 to Ron Pratte, who as we already know, has a serious addiction to overpaying for FoMoCo products. – Ray Wert

Related:
Jalopnik Question of the Day: What Would You Buy for $5.5 Million; Barrett-Jackson: We Get A View Live From Stage, You See Shelby Give Away First-Born GT [internal]

At the Barrett-Jackson auction this week, Carroll Shelby's personal Cobra went home with Ron "Futurliner" Pratte, a house builder from Chandler, Arizona who drops multimillions on classic vehicles like they were mid-career Charlie Hough cards on the eBay. He paid $5.5 million for this pedigreed Cobra, which may not have broken any records, but it sure was Aswan-Dam expensive. That brings us to the question of the day. If you had $5.5 million to blow, would you have courted Shelby's ex, or would you spend it on something else? Details, details.

Shelby Cobra sells for $5.5 million [MSNBC]

Related:
More Question of the Day [internal]

Our insider snapping photos and videos out in Scottsdale at the big BJ auction managed to get themselves up on the stage and take some shots of Ford's newest Mustang derivative, the #001 serial-numbered Shelby Mustang GT. We've got the picture gallery below and according to the description from FoMoCo PR description from Shelby PR shit pulled off of Barrett-Jackson's website from god knows where:

"This car will be the first to be produced, and will carry Shelby authentication plate Number One. The Shelby GT Mustang combines the best in classic Shelby looks and Ford Racing Performance Parts for a well-balanced, corner-carving Mustang that is equally at home on the track or the street. These cars start life as a Mustang GT at the factory in Flat Rock, Michigan and are...

...shipped to Las Vegas for modification by Shelby. Ford Racing power and handling upgrade packages increase performance by approx 25hp, and lower the car 1.5" while tightening the suspension and improving handling. The car is also fitted with a Hurst short throw shifter and X-pipe exhaust. Some key Shelby design components include hood scoop, hood pins, grille insert, sill plate and floor mats, "Shelby GT" side stripe, "Shelby" badging on trunk lid, and a custom authentication plate on the dash. The Shelby GT will be available in white or black only, with silver LeMans stripes. White cars will be built with polished 18" wheels, while black cars will have black 18" wheels. This special edition Mustang will be available in both manual and automatic transmission."

Related:
More Straw, Less Muscle: Media Control Program at Barrett-Jackson; Barrett-Jackson's All About...Drifting? [internal]

To be honest, we've really got no idea what drifting has to do with the Barrett-Jackson auction out in Scottsdale, but for some reason it's part of FoMoCo's "Family Fun Day" party out west. Despite the lack of an understanding of "why," we do know the "what." That there is Tony Brakohiapa, a drifter born in West Africa and living in San Francisco. The dude's 28, and was a stunt driver in the most recent sucktastic "Fast & Furious" movie which I think was called "Tokyo Drift Like The Kids Are Doing" or something like that. He's drifting around the "course" in a 2005 Saleen S281 beefed up to 550 hp. We also know he's doing stuff in a Mustang we've never seen done before. We'll have more pictures and video later, and FoMoCo's press release giving no reason "why" either is after the jump. [Hat tip to the boldly moving WD!] – Ray Wert

FORD AND BARRETT-JACKSON TEAM UP FOR 2007

* Building on last year's success, Ford and Barrett-Jackson will again team up for the 2007 auction season in Scottsdale, Ariz. and Palm Beach, Fla.

* Ford to sponsor Barrett-Jackson Family Value Day on Monday, January 15 in Scottsdale

* Unique Mustang to be auctioned at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale, proceeds to benefit Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 8 - Ford and Barrett-Jackson, two American icons, will create more history in the auction world for 2007. Building on last year's successful auctions in Scottsdale, Ariz. and Palm Beach, Fla., Ford will team up with Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, LLC, as a key automotive sponsor.

Ford will sponsor the Barrett-Jackson Family Value Day, scheduled for Monday, January 15. In its second year, Family Value Day is dedicated to bringing in the young generation of car enthusiasts by offering discounted tickets for adults and allowing children under the age of 12 in for free. Last year's first-ever Family Value Day brought in 25,000. All cars that will be auctioned off during the event are available for viewing on Family Value Day before the actual auction begins.

"Our experiment during the 2006 auction of opening for a day dedicated to families was a great success," said Craig Jackson, president and CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, LLC. "It was a pleasure to see thousands of kids and their parents enjoying the event, knowing that a whole new generation of hobbyists is emerging. We are thrilled to join forces with Ford to make this year's Family Value Day even more exciting for our guests."

In addition to Ford's sponsorship of Family Value Day, the automotive manufacturer is announcing they will auction off a unique Mustang at the Scottsdale auction with proceeds benefiting The Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

"Barrett-Jackson is the world's most unique platform for selling the world's most unique cars," said Robert Parker, Ford car marketing manager. "It's not just about classic cars and resto mods anymore, Barrett-Jackson has become a great venue to sell premier models of some of Ford's latest and greatest cars."

As part of its sponsorship, Ford will once again bring interactive elements to Barrett-Jackson. A drifting track and a dyno-simulated drag racing display were some of the experiential elements Ford brought to the 2006 events. "We've found that experiential elements allow us to better connect with our customers," said Parker. "We created a lot of memories for our current and future customers in 2006 and we intend to do the same in 2007." Feature cars from the manufacturer will also be among the elements that Ford will bring back to the event, adding an entirely new element to the Barrett-Jackson experience.

"Barrett-Jackson has grown into a week-long celebration of a mixture of cars, luxury, family, technology and fun," added Jackson. "Ford brings to the table a little bit of all of the above, making this sponsorship alliance the perfect mixture to offer something for everyone."

Related:
More Straw, Less Muscle: Media Control Program at Barrett-Jackson [internal]

Related:
Jalopnik Question of the Day: Which Modern Cars Will Be the Most Collectible in 30 Years; We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful: Barrett-Jackson Edition [Internal]

On the occasion of the latest Barrett-Jackson cashout, collector car insurance firm Hagerty serves us a top-10 list of prospective collector cars for the next generation. Not long ago, we argued that, 30 years from now, there'd be no cars of this era fetching the same numbers as a mint Hemi Cuda these days ($2 million). Or, even scarier, that that aging Gen Xers would be paying six figures for a four-door Hyundai Excel with clove-cigarette burns on the seats and original Dinosaur Jr. stickers on the rear bumper (full disclosure: uh, never mind). But in the past several years, a few cars have popped up that may become bona fide auction queens. That brings us to the question of the day. Which late-model cars would you stick in a garage somewhere until Barrett-Jackson 2037? And while we're at it, chime in — poll wise — on Hagerty's list. – Mike Spinelli

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

Related:
Question of the Day: Is Badge Engineering Ever Good? [internal]

We liked the days when we would be driving down College Avenue in Berkeley and would see Jade Puget of AFI strolling down the street and pull over for a chat. We also like hearing AFI on the radio, even if our musical tastes have diverged. But the band was so worried about a Green Day/Jawbreaker-style backlash, that there were all kinds of conflicting statements when the band left indie label Nitro for DreamWorks. But AFI worked hard, played their asses off, etc. We don't begrudge them a thing. And them signing to a major didn't take away a thing from us. However, we're a bit miffed at Craig Jackson.

No doubt, Jackson and his crew have worked hard to make their auction synonymous with, well, automotive auctions. That said, we're also a bit pissed, because we feel like the event has ruined the musclecar hobby. In an interview with the Arizona Republic, Jackson notes, "I had the luxury of growing up watching the WWII generation buying and selling the great classics. Duesenbergs went from $5,000 to a million dollars. I said in the late '80s that great muscle cars are going to do the same with this generation."

And of course, he was right. But a Duesy SJ was an amazing piece of handbuilt engineering. A HemiCuda droptop was a lucky bunch of options checked on an order sheet. It's an $8,000 car, at best. But the rise of the LS6s, COPOs and what have you have elevated well-styled shitboxes into Maserati Birdcage territory, and it's due in no small part to Jackson's auction. What's more, it's driven a lot of us out of the musclecar hobby because we can't believe that our simple, serviceable cars have turned into such expensive machines.

It's time for a new paradigm. We suggest the Subaru Justy. Or find a loophole to get gray-market Daihatsu Boon X4s and Honda Beats into California. Ahnuld, help us. – Davey G. Johnson

Q&A: Jackson sees strong future for collector cars [Arizona Republic]

Related:
SUPER TOPPO AMUSEMENT! Mitsubishi Minica Toppo on eBay [Internal]

If you weren't already tipped off by the millions of dollars being withdrawn from 401Ks from here to Calabasas, the annual Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction started last night and runs through Saturday. If you go to check out the cars and the Benjis, ask for Jimmy. He'll be the one in the scowl:

If you write-up the first night of the B-J PB, you better mention how it sucked and how this sucking was very much related to the high idiocy factor of those two fucking announcers. The one guy, that i believe was on the right (according to the dolby 6.1) used the phrase "yet another truck motor that was placed in a passenger car to increase sales" at LEAST three times in reference to Chevy big block — and not even especially "trucky" engines. He was talking about the 396 and 409 and such. I mean if it had been the ford FE, then maybe, but the CBB? Oh, and get this, he cited the tri-carb set up as the reason and the disp. as the reasons why it was "actually a truck motor. The last time I checked the bump-stickwas a little more important than either when it came to such designations. . .Come-on. He also referred to the two-tone paint scheme of a classic 'Merican ride (A goddamn Impala, I believe — guess which side of this fence I fall on) as "a euro-style two tone" as if he was speaking about a modern sport compact or custom "V-dub."

And he completely backhanded the Blue Oval throughout the show. Maybe that's why I'm pissed. . . Nah, the Fords just weren't selling to the mediocre crowd of south Florida whales and red-necks that were snapping up the not-very-interesting fare like it was manna.

Related:
Cash and Caddy: Johnny's Black Cadillac to Be Auctioned [internal]

Despite that (or, perhaps, because) our first impression of Johnny Cash was his singing "Dirty Old Egg Suckin' Dog" on the Muppet Show, we grew up to be a fan. We even watched "Walk the Line" on the plane back from the Geneva motor show, while we should have been sleeping off an ill-considered shot of morning courage. Now, one of his Caddys is going up for auction — a 1975 Fleetwood, powered by the "fuck you OPEC" 500ci V8 of the time. It'll be at the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2006 event tomorrow. Oh, and our birthday's coming up.

1975 CADILLAC FLEETWOOD 4 DOOR SEDAN - JOHNNY CASH [Barrett-Jackson]

Related:
Wayne Newton-Owned 1976 Cadillac Eldorado for Sale on eBay [internal]