Northwest Collector Car Auction Preview - Vintage Cars Up for Grabs

All Eyes on the Upcoming Northwest Collector Car Auction

Car enthusiasts across the Pacific Northwest are buzzing about the highly anticipated Northwest Collector Car Auction coming up this Saturday. This premier auction draws hundreds of collectors and spectators each year, all eager to see some of the most coveted vehicles in the country go up on the block.

Presented by the Northwest Car Collector Association, this year's auction includes over 200 vintage and classic automobiles, ranging from 1930s American classics to European sports cars from the 1960s and 70s. With such an eclectic mix of vehicles up for grabs, the Northwest Collector Car Auction is sure to have something for every taste and budget.

Previewing Some of the Coveted Vehicles

While the full roster of cars at the auction is kept under wraps until showtime, the organizers have teased attendees with sneak peeks of some of the most prized lots. Here is a taste of what collectors can expect to see roll across the auction block:

• A rare 1935 Duesenberg SJ Special - One of only two ever built, this iconic American luxury car in pristine condition is estimated to fetch over $1 million.
• A 1958 Porsche 550A Spyder - This sought-after Porsche race car is identical to the one James Dean fatally crashed in 1955. It could sell for more than $5 million.
• A 1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Convertible - Fully restored and one of only seven made, this muscle car icon of the 1970s may command upwards of $2 million.
• A 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta - This luxurious grand touring Ferrari with coachbuilt bodywork could sell for over $10 million.

These are just a handful of the lots that have collectors revving with excitement. Several prized vintage hot rods, pickup trucks, motorcycles, and other rare exotics round out the Northwest Collector Car Auction lineup.

What to Expect at the Premier Pacific Northwest Auction

The auction weekend kicks off early Saturday morning at the Portland Convention Center. The day starts with final preparations on the show floor, as vendors meticulously detail the vehicles before spectators and bidders arrive. By mid-morning, an electricity fills the hall as attendees stream in to scope out cars, grab memorabilia at vendor booths, and grab a bite from the variety of food trucks.

The live auction fires up at noon, with the rapid-fire hum of the auctioneer calling out bids. Bidders signal their bids through frantic waves, subtle nods, and electronic tablets. The auction moves at a breathless pace, with many of the most coveted cars selling in a matter of minutes for millions of dollars. Jockeying for position near the podium is key for active bidders wanting to get the auctioneer's attention.

For those not bidding, the spectator seating provides excellent views of the cars rolling across the block. Attendees can listen in on the bidding action through the loudspeakers scattered throughout the hall. Giant video screens positioned around the room allow close-up views of the cars and reaction shots of bidders.

Something for Spectators and Bidders Alike

While the live auction is only open to registered bidders and their guests, there are still plenty of activities for the public at large. The day before the auction, Northwest Collector Car Auction hosts a free preview day. From 9am to 5pm on Friday, the show floor is open for anyone wanting a sneak peek at the lineup.

Preview day allows spectators to check out the vehicles up-close, snap photos, and chat with owners and restorers. Vendors and car clubs also set up booths where visitors can shop for auto memorabilia, get appraisals, or learn more about collecting and restoration. Make sure to pick up this year's gorgeous event poster, featuring a 1938 Talbot-Lago teaser graphic.

Kids can enjoy getting up close with their dream cars in the Junior Auction section. This hands-on showcase lets children sit in classic cars from everything from Model Ts to hot rods. It's a great way to inspire the next generation of collectors and gear heads.

Friday's preview day leads into Saturday's main auction event. Even without bidding, spectators have full access to the venue, vendor marketplace, and concession stands during the live auction. Watching from the audience is almost as thrilling as having a bidder's paddle.

The Premier Pacific Northwest Collector Car Event

After Saturday's auction finale wraps up, car enthusiasts and collectors will have to wait another year for the next Northwest Collector Car Auction. This highly anticipated event stands alone as the premium automotive auction in the Pacific Northwest, drawing buyers, sellers, and spectators from around the world.

The combination of an eclectic docket of sought-after cars and an electric auction environment creates a one-of-a-kind experience. For antique car lovers, there's no better place to buy, sell, or simply admire some of the finest vintage wheeled treasures.

FAQs

What are some of the most valuable cars being auctioned?

Some of the most valuable cars include the 1935 Duesenberg SJ Special estimated at over $1 million, the 1958 Porsche 550A Spyder estimated at over $5 million, and the 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta estimated at over $10 million.

When and where is the Northwest Collector Car Auction held?

The Northwest Collector Car Auction takes place on Saturday at the Portland Convention Center in Portland, Oregon.

Is there a preview day for the general public?

Yes, there is a free public preview day held the Friday before the auction from 9am to 5pm.

What activities happen during the preview day?

Preview day allows the public to view the cars up close, take photos, visit vendor booths, get appraisals, and enjoy the Junior Auction section for kids.

Do you need to be a registered bidder to attend the auction?

No, the general public can attend the live auction on Saturday as spectators, even without bidding.