Classic cars dominate Arizona auctions

PHOENIX, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Classic cars were the true winners in a series of automobile auctions that took place in Arizona Friday and Saturday.

RM Auctions Managing Director Ian Kelleher said the sale of a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT long-wheelbase California Spider for $3.3 million dominated the trio of auctions where many cars sold for more than $1 million, The Arizona Republic reported.

"The classics are stronger than ever," Kelleher said.

The Ferrari commanded the top price among all the vehicles sold at the auctions and newcomer Gooding & Co. took home the bragging rights for the profitable sale.

The company also parted with a 1932 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport Spider for more than $1.5 million and a 1963 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Coupe for more than $1.3 million.

"We were thrilled by the exceptional turnout and results," the auction site's president, David Gooding, said.

The Republic said classic cars also were on the block at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event, where a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette concept car, called the Rondine, sold for $1.6 million.