It’s time! In less than a week — June 22-24, 2023 — Barrett-Jackson will be bringing its auction talents back to Las Vegas once again. Who needs slot machines when you can hit the jackpot buying your dream car? Diversity is the name of the game, and the selection of cars on the docket guarantees that you’ll find a fave to take home.
Previously, we brought you two previews of what’s in store. We’re of the opinion a little more can’t hurt, so do any of these look like a winning hand?
1936 Chrysler Airflow Imperial Sedan
The Airflow was incredibly influential when it was introduced in 1934, but whatever enthusiasm existed when it debuted quickly dissipated. It was grave enough that Chrysler brought out a more conventional Airstream model to cater to those less brave. The Imperial and Custom Imperial versions were more upscale, competing with the best from Buick and Cadillac. This 1936 Airflow Imperial Sedan features a 299ci L-head straight-eight and a three-speed manual and, interestingly, its original interior. Nineteen thirty-seven would be the Airflow’s swansong.
1956 Ford Parklane Station Wagon
When Chevrolet introduced the Nomad wagon in 1955, there was nothing like it on the road. Most distinctive was its inimitable hardtop styling, though Ford rushed to create a stopgap model that mimicked the Nomad’s high level of trim but was not able to represent as a true two-door hardtop wagon. What we are left with is a little-known, one-year-only relic that did a nice job of faking it but clearly it didn’t feature hardtop styling. This Platinum Gray and Colonial White example is powered by a 200-horsepower 292ci V8 paired with a three-speed overdrive transmission. Peek inside and you’ll find a Fiesta Red and white interior — such a cool color combo!
1960 Volkswagen Custom 23-Window Microbus
By now it should not be news that multi-window Volkswagen vans are hot items at Barrett-Jackson. This early Mango Green and Alaska White example (note the bullet-style parking lights and small round taillights) has been tastefully modified with a 1.5-liter flat-four featuring dual-port heads. Glance above the tan interior and you’ll find a sliding fabric sunroof amongst the skylights — neat! Additional features include a 12-volt upgrade, overhead ventilation unit, custom Autosound USA-230 stereo, and plenty more.
1971 Ford Torino Cobra
Nineteen seventy-one was Ford’s last year for high-compression engines, but the death knell was already sounding. Evidence was the downgrading of the Torino Cobra series, as the standard engine went from 1970’s 429/360 to a 351 Cleveland with 285 horsepower. The 429 Cobra Jet, available with or without ram air, was still an option, but the Drag Pack was no longer available. With a different hood black-out, new rear black-out, and the availability of Laser stripes for the first time, the Torino Cobra looked fresh despite being a year old. This Light Pewter metallic example features the 351 engine, C6 automatic, Shaker hood scoop, and aluminum rear-window slats.
Source: www.classiccars.com