I've been on about this for a while now, but the data just keeps backing me up: the weekend is when the magic happens in online car auctions. This year's trend? It's loud and clear with three of the four big-ticket sales, each crossing the $1 million mark, happening over the weekend. And let me tell you, this isn't just some random coincidence.

Take a look at the sale of the 2012 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport ‘Wei Long’ Year of the Dragon edition that fetched a cool $1,735,676 just yesterday. This isn't just any car; it's a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, celebrating the Year of the Dragon with bespoke features like porcelain dragon sculptures and an interior that's as luxurious as it gets, proving its uniqueness is as compelling as its performance. Its sale over the weekend isn't a lone case. The trend continues with a 2019 Porsche 935 and a 2021 Ford GT Carbon Series, both snagging million-dollar bids during weekend auctions.

Now, you might think it's a headache for platforms like Collecting Cars and Bring a Trailer to organize these auctions over the weekend. But guess what? It's paying off, big time. The weekends are turning out to be golden for these platforms, and frankly, for sellers and buyers alike. There's a vibe to weekend auctions that's just unmatched—more eyes on the prize, more adrenaline, and definitely more willingness to hit those high numbers.

It's a fascinating shift, seeing weekends transform from what you'd expect to be downtime into prime time for the auction world's most exhilarating sales. For anyone who's been tracking this, like I have, it's a sweet spot that's proving to be incredibly lucrative. Sure, running these auctions over the weekend might be more of a challenge, but the payoff? It's undeniable. High stakes, high excitement, and high sales—it's clear that for the auction scene, weekends are where it's at.

Another exceptional sales achievement this weekend, with sales exceeding $7 million. To explore each auction, simply click on the image.

In the vibrant tapestry of the automotive world, certain vehicles glide under the radar, not garnering the buzz of their flashier counterparts like BMWs or Porsches. Yet, there exists a fervent market for these unassuming giants, vehicles that may not dominate mainstream conversations but command a loyal following due to their undeniable prowess and utility. A prime example of such an underrated champion is the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R SuperCrew.

The Ford F-150 Raptor R SuperCrew is a testament to engineering marvel and rugged functionality, setting itself apart as a behemoth in the truck segment. At its core, the Raptor R is not just any truck; it's a powerhouse designed for both the off-road enthusiast and the daily commuter seeking unparalleled performance. Its robust engine delivers heart-pounding power, while its sophisticated suspension system ensures a ride that's as smooth on rocky terrains as it is on city streets. This vehicle's capability to blend utility, comfort, and sheer power makes it a standout in its class, commanding respect and admiration from those who understand its value.

A glance at the sales data paints a telling picture of the Raptor R's market appeal. Despite being a vehicle that doesn't traditionally generate widespread media buzz, the Raptor R is selling for $15,000 to $20,000 over the MSRP. This price surge isn't just for brand-new models straight off the showroom floor; even units with around 3,000 miles on the odometer are fetching prices well above MSRP. Dealers, aware of the Raptor R's niche yet eager audience, are asking for $20,000 to $30,000 over MSRP, underscoring the vehicle's exceptional demand.

The 2024 models further illuminate the Raptor R's unique position in the market. Securing one of these vehicles is akin to finding a rare gem, contingent upon strong relationships with dealers who receive them in limited quantities. When a 2024 Raptor R does become available, it's not uncommon for it to be priced at $50,000 over MSRP, a testament to its enduring appeal and the market's willingness to pay a premium for this beast of a truck.

This phenomenon isn't just a fleeting trend. The dynamics at play suggest that the Ford F-150 Raptor R SuperCrew will continue to command prices significantly above MSRP for the foreseeable future, especially for models with exceptionally low mileage. The Raptor R's allure lies not in its ability to turn heads with flashy aesthetics but in its unmatched capability and performance. This is one of the many unsung heroes consistently sold without the fanfare of larger brand sales.

A few auctions that caught my eye today. Click on the image to be taken directly to the listing.

Last week I mentioned that I got to drive a friend's modified 911SC that was a former race car that was built back up into a street car. It was light, nimble and purpose built. I have been thinking about that driving experience and what else would deliver it. This seems like the concept that I was thinking about, taken to a new level of fit and finish. I love the look, the color, the wheels, the RUF front air dam, the exposed oil lines, the stance... I do wish this listing had a driving video to see what this car really has to offer.

The 2020 Zeal Motor FAT TRUCK 2.8C Wagon? Oh, it's an absolute beast of a machine that laughs in the face of conventional off-roaders. Imagine powering through mud, snow, or even floating across a lake, thanks to its Caterpillar turbodiesel engine and amphibious chops. This isn't just any ATV; it's a party on wheels with room for eight, decked out with all the goodies like heat, A/C, and those massive tires that mean business. It's the kind of ride that turns every outing into an epic adventure, and with its own transport trailer included, it's ready to roll whenever you are. Trust me, this thing is as cool as they come – a true off-road warrior that's all about going places others can't even dream of.

I’m a fan of the Nissan Figaro. Like the Pao, these wonderful design experiments had a unique retro look and modern underpinnings. I used to see these when visiting Europe and always thought it would be fun to have one stateside. As these get imported, I see that I was not the only one. I do wonder if these had been more mass produced in left hand drive, maybe with larger dimensions for US roads, how much these would have taken off with the new Beetle and the Miata. 

I will admit that this is an amazing and luxurious vehicle, but I can't get over the fact that I saw so many of these used as livery cars in Manhattan, driven with air freshener trees hanging in them until the wheels fall off. There is still one of these regularly parked on the upper east side that clearly belongs to a hoarder and it is loaded with books, boxes, papers and black garbage bags with the rear suspension sitting on its bump stops. As nice as these really are, and this one in particular with only 6k miles, I can't get the thought of these as worn taxis out of my head. We last saw this car in December 2022, sale price $60,500 and it has been shipped from Ohio to Michigan with only 15.3 miles added to the clock in the past 15 months.

This car ticks a lot of boxes for me. Rare, beautiful, powerful, convertible and a great driver's car with a proper manual transmission. The startup video gives us a sense of the sound of the exhaust (which is great), but I would love to see a driving video that captures the best of the open air experience of driving this Boxster Spyder.