“Glamorous” is not a word you hear to describe modern Italian sports and GT cars. It’s a bit of a bygone word in an era when car designers and marketers much prefer terms like “aggressive.” Indeed, the modern versions often seem styled with angry-looking visages, perhaps to frighten other motorists or small children. The Maserati Mistral, built from 1963-1970, wears a happy look up front. Times are different.
The RM Sotheby’s Amelia Island auction will offer a 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Cabriolet B. This is a so-called “early” Cabriolet B, which retains 500K-style bodywork, including vertical louvers on the hood sides, but with certain 540K features, including the bumpers. The Cabriolet B was distinguished by its four-passenger interior, with a comfortable rear seat for two, and a soft top with rear quarter windows.
Last month in Scottsdale, Arizona, a restored 1958 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider Veloce sold for $176,000 at the Bonhams auction in Scottsdale (including premium). Think about that: $176k can still buy a 40-year-newer Ferrari 550 Maranello, or a brand new Porsche 911 Turbo with a smattering of options.