INDIANAPOLIS — It’s spring in Indianapolis, and if you’re an auto enthusiast not completely consumed with that other little event in Speedway, it’s time to make plans to attend Dana Mecum’s 36th Original Spring Classic auto auction that runs May 12-20 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. From muscle cars to pre-war classics and Italian exotics, there will be cars for everybody. And, many will be much more affordable than you think.
Collections upon collections
No matter your price point, there will be interesting cars to consider. You’ll watch Corvette after Corvette from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s sell for under $15,000. Any of these cars look fantastic and are fun weekend cars, even if they lack the latest technology. There will also be older luxury cars, pickups, classic SUVs, and of course, muscle cars. Some of the best will come from more than 30 collections comprising nearly 400 vehicles.
A fun one will be The Hustle for the Muscle Collection, offering a selection of Buick, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac models at no reserve. The Apex Collection includes a diverse group of 33 vehicles that focuses on American muscle cars with special attention on Shelby.
Another collection comes from Chris Bishop with 24 lots that include a 2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS owned by Eddie Van Halen and 1959 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham Custom Station Wagon known as “CadMad.” Mustangs are well represented by Ben and Karen’s Fabulous Fox Body Collection of eight cars, plus the Meticulous Mustangs and More Collection of 14 low-mileage ponies.
Individual cars like the Rapid Transit Cuda stand out. The car, funded and specified by Plymouth, is one of four Plymouth Rapid Transit System Caravan touring road show cars designed by Harry Bradley – a key designer for Hot Wheels in 1967/68. Unrestored and mostly out of sight for over 50 years, the car retains its custom bodywork and shows less than 1,000 miles.
The Plymouth is very cool, but my eye is on the 1976 Harley-Davidson FLH Bicentennial motorcycle that was the very last bike purchased by Elvis Presley – a noted enthusiast of all things with engines.
Among all of these will be a very special 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger R/T SE called “The Black Ghost.” The tale of the car says it was street-raced by an anonymous driver, who only after his death, was identified as Detroit police officer Godfrey Qualls. His black Challenger was adorned with the “Gator Grain” roof covering and white tail stripes. After decades in his son’s garage, enthusiasts will have a singular chance to take it home.
Buying at auction
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to interview Scott Hoke, host of "Mecum Collector Car Auctions" on Motor Trend TV, about buying at auction. With cars so readily available online, why should anybody even go?
“You have an opportunity to see a bunch of cars all in one place,” Hoke said. “Just show up; you never know what you’ll find. It’s one of the best car shows you’ve ever attended. High-end collectors can find that one missing piece for their collection, and first-time buyers can get started.”
In short, there’s no substitute for “kicking the tires” and inspecting the vehicle you hope to purchase. You just can’t see fine details in paint, chrome, and interior condition online. One of the great things about attending Mecum’s is there are often many similar cars. Want a mid-1960s Corvette? There will be more than you can count with virtually every engine, color, interior, and body configuration. There are literally barns full of cars from which to choose.
“Come and check the car out ahead of time, or have someone check it out for you,” Hoke continued. “If you find a car you like, spend hours with the car, talk to its owner or consigner, and get into the details of the car. Find out as much about that specific car as you can.”
And, if you can’t make it in-person, Mecum has revised its bidder process to provide more options via telephone and internet. Registration starts at $100.
Visiting the auction
Plan for your visit now. Gates open at 8 a.m. daily for previews. Vehicle auctions get underway at 10 a.m. Friday, May 12 through Wednesday, May 17 and at 9 a.m. Thursday May 18 through Saturday, May 20. Tickets cost $20 in advance, $30 at the door, while children 12 and under enter free.
For more information, including a listing of cars and collections being sold, go online at Mecum.com.
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Casey Williams is a long-time Indianapolis auto writer, serving as Auto Correspondent for the Indy Star and WFYI. He’s been an automotive contributor to WTHR since 2021. Send comments to AutoCasey@aol.com; follow him on YouTube @AutoCasey.
