1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe sells for $7.25 million

The championship-winning 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601 has made history again, selling for a record-breaking $7.25 million at Mecum’s inaugural Monterey Auction on August 15, 2009.

That price tag sets the record for the highest price paid for an American car at public auction.

High performance collector car specialists Mecum Auction promoted the Daytona Cobra Coupe – American racing’s Crown Jewel – for months leading up to the auction.  “Selling this amazing piece of American race history at our first Monterey auction has been the crowning achievement of my career and Mecum Auction’s 22 years of selling collector cars,” said Dana Mecum, president of Mecum Auction.

“This hand-built car beat the fastest cars in the world and has now added another ‘win’ to its list of accomplishments.  It certainly finished in record form again.”

The 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra was one of six cars built by Carroll Shelby to compete against the dominating Ferrari in the F.I.A. (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) World Manufacturers Championship for GT race class.  An experimental coupe body designed by Peter Brock was built on an existing Cobra chassis, immediately increasing the top speed by 25 mph.  That car won its first race, the 1964 Daytona Continental (prompting Shelby to adopt the name), and five more coupes were built, including CSX2601.

After competing at Daytona, Monza, Spa and Nurburgring, CSX2601 made history when it clinched the 1965 World Manufacturers Championship for the United States and Shelby American on July 4 in Reims, France.  Driving the car – and America – to victory was legendary race car driver Bob Bondurant.

Bondurant drove the Daytona Cobra Coupe across the Mecum auction block as it set the new high-bid record.

“Truly the best part about auctioning the Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe has been sharing the stories of its amazing history with millions of people across the country,” Mecum said.  “This race car’s greatest moments and its legacy as America’s world champion will be cherished for generations to come.”

Mecum’s Monterey Auction took place on Saturday, August 15, 2009, at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Resort & Spa on the Del Monte Golf Course.  In addition to the Shelby Daytona, Mecum offered an eclectic mix of more than 200 cars ranging from a 1931 Rolls-Royce to a 2007 Saleen S7.

The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year – more than any collector car auction company in the world.  Auction information and results are available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.

Mecum’s first-ever Monterey Auction tops $14 million in sales

The inaugural Mecum Monterey Auction was a great success as the company claimed the highest single vehicle sale in its history – $7.25 million for the 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe – and reached total gross sales for the one-day auction of $14.3 million (including buyer’s premium).

“Our first Monterey auction was a wonderful milestone for Mecum.  Our company made history by selling the legendary Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe, which set a new record for the highest price paid for an American car at public auction,” said President Dana Mecum.  “In addition, we had an amazing array of high-end classic and exotic cars cross the auction block, from early ’30s Ford street rods to late-model Bentleys.  It was exciting to bring both serious car collectors and enthusiasts to the Hyatt Regency Monterey, which is just minutes from downtown and gave us ample room to display cars on the beautiful Del Monte golf course.  We look forward to returning to Monterey with even more cars to offer.”

Mecum’s Top 10 Sales from the Monterey Auction (all sales reflect hammer prices) were:

1. 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe (Lot S104) at $7,250,000
2. 1940 Packard Darrin Super 8 (Lot S87) at $330,000
3. 1973 Ferrari Daytona 365 GTB/4 (Lot S80) at $300,000
4. 1967 Chevrolet Corvette (Lot S86) at $205,000
5. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SC (Lot S214) at $190,000
6. 1940 Lincoln Zephyr Continental (Lot S79) at $161,000
7. 1969 Chevrolet Corvette L88 Coupe (Lot S208) at $150,000
8. 1957 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible (Lot S113) at $150,000
9. 1953 Oldsmobile Fiesta Convertible (Lot S94) at $150,000
10. 1954 Packard Caribbean Convertible (Lot S63) at $137,500

Complete Monterey Auction results are available to Mecum InfoNet members, which is free to join at www.mecum.com/infonet.  InfoNet members can log in to see car-by-car results.

Mecum’s next auction, the McDorman Sign Collection, takes place Sept. 11-12, 2009, at Bob McDorman Chevrolet in Canal Winchester, Ohio, and will feature more than 1,000 neon signs, memorabilia and automotive parts.

The Mecum Auction Company has been specializing in the sale of collector cars for 22 years, offering more than 5,000 collector cars per year – more than any collector car auction company in the world.  Auction information and results are available online at www.Mecum.com or by calling 815.568.8888.

NAV-TV RELEASES THE M.O.S.T. HEAD UNIT REPLACEMENT MODULE FOR THE PORSCHE 997

Nav-TV™, an international leader in OEM vehicle network integration technology for infotainment and telematics device optimization, announced the release of the MOSTHUR-997 M.O.S.T. fiber optic head unit replacement module for 2004 to 2009 Porsche 997 vehicles with amplified sound systems.

The MOSTHUR-997 allows full integration into the stock amplified sound system, allowing the end-user to replace their factory radio with an aftermarket navigation/DVD head unit while retaining the factory amplifier and speakers. Installing into the vehicle with just 4 connections and the included antenna adapter and M.O.S.T. fiber optic extension, the MOSTHUR-997 supplies accessory power, illumination, reverse, VSS (vehicle speed pulse), vehicle brake and parking brake to the aftermarket radio.

Retail pricing for the MOSTHUR is $649.00 USD. Please call NAV-TV at 1.866.477.3336 for further details.

The Dicarlo Group is pleased to announce that we will be advertising with the duPont Registry Fine Homes!

The Dicarlo Group is pleased to announce that it will be advertising with the duPont Registry’s  fine homes magazine! In preparation for the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat show in October, it will also be featured in the duPont REGISTRY’s luxury boat magazine along with the homes magazine!

Last ad with the duPont Registry for the August 2009 Anniversary Issue

Above you will find our last ad with the duPont Registry for the August 2009 Anniversary Issue!

Go to the Dicarlo Group’s web site for more information.

A.W.E. Tuning announces the first turbo kit in the world for models equipped with the 2.0T TSI engine

A.W.E. Tuning announces the release of the first K04 Turbo Kit in the world for the 2008.5+ Audi A3/TT, Volkswagen GLI/GTI models equipped with the 2.0T TSI engine.

By combining high performance OEM parts, world class software from G.I.A.C. and parts engineered in-house, A.W.E. Tuning has created a turbo kit with phenomenal bang for the buck.

Highlights of this kit:

• FIRST TSI K04 TURBO KIT WORLDWIDE
• 360 CRANK HORSEPOWER AND 355 CRANK TORQUE ON 93 OCTANE
• A.W.E. TUNING MODIFIED OEM S3 K04 TURBOCHARGER
• A.W.E. TUNING DIVERTER VALVE RELOCATION KIT
• PROPRIETARY G.I.A.C. SOFTWARE CALIBRATION
• RETAINS OE FUEL PUMP AND FUEL INJECTORS

At the heart of this kit is a modified K04 turbocharger from the European market Audi S3. This turbo redefines what is possible from a bolt on K04 upgrade. Its responsive nature and huge power potential made it the logical choice for this platform.

By working with world-renowned software tuner G.I.A.C., a powerful software solution was created with switching capabilities. Further, this proprietary software also keeps all factory safety and emissions monitoring systems in place.

The end result is a kit that delivers loads of reliable horsepower in an easy to drive package.

A.W.E. Tuning’s TSI K04 Kit recently propelled their in-house 08 VW GTI to victory in the Front Wheel Drive Street Class of the Redline Time Attack round at NJMP, besting some very stiff competition. The car performed flawlessly during the several hundred track practice and race miles in the hot summer heat.

To celebrate the exciting release of this product, A.W.E. Tuning is offering special Launch Alert Pricing on its TSI K04 Turbo Kit until August 19th.

duPont REGISTRY Announces Padua Farm in Ocala, Florida

Padua Farm in Ocala, Florida, is offered for 35 Million in duPont REGISTRY: Buyers Gallery of Fine Homes

With all eyes on the luxury real estate market, the duPont REGISTRY announced today that one of the most luxurious horse and equestrian farms in the country will continue to be featured prominently in its September edition and on its web site featuring luxury real estate for sale.

Offered by Ocala Realtor, Joan Pletcher, Padua Farm consists of 769 +/- acres. It is currently being utilized as a Thoroughbred horse farm and breeding center. Amenities of the farm include: ¾ mile dirt track, a 1 mile turf track, eleven barns with a Total of 202 stalls, covered hot walkers, round pens, three, four, and five board fencing, Manager’s residence, 13 residences for staff, dormitory, Owner’s residence, pool, spa and boat dock with lift, guest residence, executive offices, 3 metal maintenance buildings, 3 greenhouses, and four decorative gated entries, and extensive site improvements as well as underground utilities.

“With so many of the world-elite choosing to buy luxury homes in Ocala, Florida, we can’t wait to see who will emerge as the next owner of this equestrian property that is nothing less than a dream come true,” said Sheri Norris, editor-in-chief of the duPont REGISTRY’s Buyers Gallery of Fine Homes. “We have worked with Joan Pletcher on many properties over the years and this is one that truly stands out as rare and unique.” Norris continued.

Readers interested in learning more about Padua Farm can go to duPont REGISTRY’s luxury homes for sale web site and click on the links under Ocala, Florida properties where there is a wealth of information, images, and a video tour of the property.

The duPont REGISTRY has promoted living the good life since it opened its doors in Tampa Bay in 1985 and is read by affluent consumers from around the world. Look for the issue on newsstands everywhere or call 727-573-9339 for single copies.

A.W.E. Tuning announces the release of its cat-back exhaust system for the Audi RS4

A.W.E. Tuning announces the release of its cat back exhaust system and high-flow downpipes for the 2006-08 Audi RS4.

Available in Resonated or Non-Resonated variants, this exhaust can cater to any enthusiast’s need. Whether they want a more manageable system for transporting clients or something louder for the track, A.W.E. Tuning can deliver.

To cap off this system, A.W.E. offers their signature 3.15” straight cut exhaust tips available in a Polished Silver or Diamond Black finish. Each tip is individually adjustable, so stagger and depth into bumper can be set according to personal taste.

A.W.E. Tuning has also released their high flow downpipes for the ultimate combination of sound and power. While unlocking additional horsepower, the downpipes add a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note. Thanks to high quality German made HJS Catalysts, there is no Check Engine Light when using A.W.E. Tuning’s downpipes.

Some highlights of these components:

• +11 HORSEPOWER AND 11 FT LBS OF TORQUE AT THE CRANK WITH THE ENTIRE SYSTEM
• +7 HORSEPOWER AND 5 FT LBS OF TORQUE AT THE CRANK WITH CATBACK ONLY
• X-PIPE DESIGN FOR MAXIMUM EXHAUST SCAVENGING AND BETTER BALANCE BETWEEN CYLINDER BANKS
• WILL MATE UP TO FACTORY DOWNPIPES WITHOUT MODIFICATION
• FULLY MANDREL BENT TUBING 2.5″ IN DIAMETER
• THICK .065″ WALL T304 STAINLESS STEEL TUBING
• STAINLESS STEEL TIG WELDS
• LIFETIME WARRANTY

To celebrate the exciting release of this product, A.W.E. Tuning is offering special Launch Alert Pricing on all of their RS4 exhaust products until July 21st.

Please visit the RS4 Exhaust and High Flow Downpipes section of A.W.E. Tuning’s website for pricing information, additional system photographs and video clips of the system in action.

The Roadster Shop’s “C1RS” Corvette Named Street Machine of the Year

In the world of custom automobiles a car comes along every five to ten years that represents a sea change, raising the bar to seemingly unreachable new heights. It happened again in Columbus, Ohio at the Goodguys 12th PPG Nationals when Phil and Jeremy Gerber and the Roadster Shop team debuted their “C1RS” ’62 Corvette for customer Barry Blomquist. From the moment the car was uncovered gasps and gawks came over the masses. The performance automotive scene hasn’t seen a car quite like this. Both Blomquist and the Gerber’s beamed proudly as the car was unanimously named 2009 Goodguys/Air Ride Technologies “Street Machine of the Year.”

Designed by the Roadster shop and artist Eric Brockmeyer, Blomquists’s “C1RS” Corvette is a striking blend of hand formed aluminum and carbon fiber built in step with today’s F-1 race cars. It also served as the launch platform for The Roadster Shop’s new C1 line of Corvette chassis. Mated with Detroit Speed & Engineering suspension components, Brembo 14 ½” 6-piston brakes and one off custom spindle mount Forgeline wheels, the car’s ground hugging underpinnings served it well in the mandatory Autocross competition at the Goodguys PPG Nationals (Street Machine of the Year award criteria calls for all participants to log at least 3 laps on the Autocross course). With Phil Gerber doing the driving the ‘Vette posted the fastest lap of the event in 32.222 effortless seconds. Onlookers claimed it looked like the car was merely out for a Sunday drive while blowing the doors off the other 31 Street Machine of the Year competitors.

Under the hand-formed hood lies the heart of the beast – a 618 horsepower LS7 by Turnkey Engines producing 640ft lbs of torque. Custom stainless 2-inch primary headers emit a throaty roar and the Bowler T-56 transmission gets it flying in a hurry.

Aesthetically, the cars low, smooth lines give it spectacular curb appeal. Everything on the ’Vette has been changed, massaged, smoothed and redesigned by The Roadster Shop staying true to Brockmeyer’s original design. The entire front end is custom formed from sixty-thousandths sheet aluminum including all grills, grille surrounds, front bumper and grille bar. One off headlights with billet trim rings, carbon fiber side louvers, a recessed cove and a completely restyled rear end would make even Zora Arkus Duntov envious.

Being a roadster, the car’s interior plays a dominant roll in its overall look and feel. The custom formed seats are adorned in Italian red leather with Alcantara suede accents. The aluminum dash is hand-sculpted to perfection housing Classic Instruments carbon fiber gauges. The waterfall center console was also made by hand and the F-1 inspired foot pedals would make former Ferrari team driver Michael Schumacher feel right at home.

The C1RS Corvette not only won the world’s biggest award for a performance Street Machine, it allowed The Roadster Shop team to realize their full potential. “We’ve had this car in our minds for a long time,” Jeremy Gerber smiled. “Our guys at the shop worked tirelessly over an entire year getting this car to Columbus. Barry Blonquist gave us the resources and opportunity to build our vision. We’re thankful to win this award for Barry and the Roadster Shop.”

The top five finalists for this year’s Goodguys/Air Ride Technologies Street Machine of the Year included Nathan Powell, Birmingham, AL 1969 Camaro, Devan Glissmeyer, Salt Lake City, UT 1968 Mustang, Barry Blomquist, Onalaska, WI 1962 Corvette, Bryan Frank, Scotts Bluff, NE 1969 Pontiac Trans Am and Tom Boldry, Kansas City, MO 1969 Dodge Charger.

NAV-TV releases world’s first replacement head unit module for the Porsche Cayenne

Nav-TV™, an international leader in OEM vehicle network integration technology for infotainment and telematics device optimization, announced the release of the MOSTHUR M.O.S.T. fiber optic head unit replacement module for 2004 to 2009 Porsche Cayenne vehicles with amplified sound systems. The MOSTHUR made its debut this year at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NV and is now available and shipping.

The MOSTHUR allows full integration into the stock amplified sound system, allowing the end-user to replace their factory radio with an aftermarket navigation/DVD head unit while retaining the factory amplifier, speakers and steering wheel controls*. Installing into the vehicle with just 4 connections and the included antenna adapter and M.O.S.T. fiber optic extension, the MOSTHUR supplies accessory power, illumination, reverse, VSS (vehicle speed pulse), vehicle brake, parking brake and user configured infrared steering wheel commands* to the aftermarket radio.

“Changing a factory PCM radio in the past meant also changing out the factory amplifier and the speakers, adding thousands of dollars onto a simple head unit replacement. In addition, your steering wheel controls became nonoperational after the radio replacement. The added costs and loss of steering wheel control functionality deterred most customers from upgrading their factory head unit in exchange for newer cutting-edge technologies. We saw a need to create a cost effective and viable solution for these vehicles and we delivered, stated NAV-TV Engineer, Derek Schmiedl”

Retail pricing for the MOSTHUR is $649.00 USD. Double-Din Porsche Cayenne radio mounting kits are available for additional purchase. Please call NAV-TV at 1.866.477.3336 for further details.

*Currently supported head units are Alpine and Kenwood with a 1/8” infrared port at the rear of the radio. Please visit www.nav-tv.com for future head unit compatibility.

Evan Longoria is Lead Hitter for duPont REGISTRY’s Tampa Bay ALLSTAR’s Edition

With the Tampa Bay Rays American League Champions Star Player on its front cover, duPont REGISTRY Luxury Living in Tampa Bay names its picks for the 2009 Annual ALLSTAR Guide to the Best in Tampa Bay. A commemorative cover featuring the familiar outline of Evan Longoria at bat makes this issue an absolute collector’s item for Rays’ Fans.

The Tampa Bay Rays have really delivered to their fans, this is our way of saying way to go, now let’s get in the spirit and do it again!
The duPont REGISTRY has promoted living the good life since it opened it’s doors in Tampa Bay in 1985.

Read by the world elite and those who have a real appreciation for the best things life can offer, the duPont REGISTRY, it’s employees, friends, and editorial contributors have chosen their favorites to be THE BEST IN TAMPA BAY with a twist from the great American past time of baseball. “The Tampa Bay Rays have really delivered to their fans, this is our way of saying way to go, now let’s get in the spirit and do it again!”, said publisher, Thomas L. duPont.

The lineup reads like an awards ceremony naming each chosen business with themed honors like: “Lead Off Hitter”, “Pinch Hitter”, and “League Champion.”

Readers looking for the best place to have Sunday brunch, take in a ballroom dance lesson, or find the best place to buy gourmet truffle oil, can find them in this issue of the duPont REGISTRY Luxury Living inTampa Bay.

Of course no issue would be complete without the regular spotlight of life around Tampa Bay. A real who’s-who at the most “where to be seen” events in our area. Readers can browse for familiar faces and places in the charity and party pages from the recent weeks.

Issue on newsstands everywhere. For single copies: 727-573-9339.

Established in 1985, the duPont REGISTRY publishes it’s Buyers Gallery of Fine Automobiles 12x Annually, Buyers Gallery of Fine Homes 12x Annually, A Buyers Gallery of Fine Boats 6x Annually, and duPont REGISTRY Tampa Bay 6x Annually. The publications website, duPontREGISTRY.com, is one of the most visited luxury portals on the net with nearly 400,000 unique visitors per month.