💰 The figures shared below don’t count any other sales such as car seats, memorabilia etc.. All online auction sites are analyzed to put this leaderboard together.

I only include websites that have sold 5+ cars in the chart below. Which means Hagerty, PCarMarket and many others did not sell 5 vehicles yesterday!

Yesterday marked an unusual day in the world of online auctions, witnessing a remarkable number of high-value listings failing to close. While it's beyond the scope to delve into each non-sale in detail, I've managed to closely examine two particular cases, revealing insights that challenge the simplistic notion of market downturn.

Often, the reasons for a car not selling extend beyond surface-level market trends, and my analysis aims to shed light on these subtler dynamics. So, here are my thoughts, though, as always, differing perspectives are welcome.

Just click on the image, and boom, you're right at the listing.

In the intricate ballet of car auctions, the dance of the 129-Mile 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo has been both mesmerizing and mystifying, reaching a crescendo with a highest bid of $381,111. Yet, this bid, impressive as it may be, uncovers a layer of complexity that extends beyond mere numbers. As the community continues to dissect this auction's aftermath, it's evident that the narrative woven around this automotive jewel is as much about its potential as it is about the palpable shortfalls in its presentation.

The seller, 'TooTall', found himself at the epicenter of an unforgiving whirlwind of scrutiny and speculation. The vibrant tapestry of community reactions – from my911turbos' unwavering confidence in the car's intrinsic value to kkCsepel13's pointed skepticism about its mileage discrepancies – paints a picture of an auction that was as much a battleground of wits as it was a showcase of automotive heritage.

This saga serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact a seller's preparedness can have on the auction's trajectory. The unanswered questions and the prevailing ambiguity surrounding the Porsche's past signal a clear departure from the gold standard of auction sales, where the comment sections are often tranquil, reflective of a seller's ability to preemptively address potential queries and concerns within the listing itself.

In stark contrast, this auction was marked by a cacophony of doubts and conjectures, which leads me to believe that 'TooTall' may have been a bit out of his depth, struggling to navigate the relentless tide of inquiries. This scenario vividly illustrates the delicate balance that sellers must strike, blending comprehensive preparation with an astute anticipation of the buyers' mindset.

As the dust settles and this chapter in the 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo's story gradually fades, it leaves behind rich insights into the nuanced art of car auctions. The tale is a testament to the fact that beyond the gleaming exteriors and the roar of engines, it's the clarity, credibility, and storytelling prowess of the seller that often steers a vehicle towards its true value in the discerning eyes of collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The auction yesterday of the 1983 Bianco Ferrari 512 BBi, which did not meet its reserve at $205,000, serves as a focal point for this discussion. When juxtaposed with the sale of the 1983 Rosso Corsa Ferrari 512 BBi at $322,500, the contrast in outcomes is stark and revealing.

Surface Factors:

Visual Appeal and Presentation:

• The Rosso Corsa Ferrari that achieved $322,500 this month excelled in visual appeal. Its classic Ferrari color not only met the traditional expectations of collectors but was also complemented by a meticulous presentation from one of the best sellers around, 911r. This car showcased how a harmonious alignment of color and condition can significantly enhance value.

• In contrast, the Bianco Ferrari's unique color, while distinctive, didn't align with the traditional palette preferred by Ferrari purists. Despite its own set of strengths, it lacked the universal appeal of its Rosso Corsa counterpart.

  

Provenance and Historical Documentation:

• The Ferrari that sold for $322,500 boasted a well-documented history and low mileage, factors that resonated with buyers seeking assurance and rarity.

• The Bianco Ferrari, though accompanied by service records and a recent belt service, carried questions regarding its total mileage and past care, casting a slight shadow on its perceived value.

Underlying Factors:

Mechanical Integrity and Detailed Inspection:

• The Rosso Corsa Ferrari's high selling price can be attributed, in part, to its immaculate condition, verified through detailed inspections and supported by comprehensive service records. Buyers had confidence in its mechanical integrity.

• Conversely, the Bianco Ferrari faced scrutiny over the oil smoke observed in the driving video, the absence of a true cold start video, and the noted coolant leak. These concerns, derived from a detailed inspection of available media and records, hinted at potential underlying issues, deterring bids that might meet the reserve.

The contrast in outcomes between these auctions emphasizes that the valuation of classic cars like the 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi is a nuanced process, deeply influenced by a combination of surface and underlying factors. The successful sale at $322,500 showcases a scenario where both sets of factors align favorably, resulting in a high valuation. On the other hand, the recent auction of the Bianco Ferrari reflects the impact of unaddressed concerns and specific buyer preferences on the final bid.

My analysis suggests that the market's perceived softness, especially in the case of the Bianco Ferrari, might not be indicative of a general trend but rather a reflection of the unique interplay of factors specific to each vehicle.

For sellers, understanding and addressing these factors proactively can significantly influence the outcome like we saw 911r do with the Rosso Corsa.

For buyers, a discerning approach that considers both surface and underlying factors can uncover true value, transcending the superficial layers to reveal the heart of what makes each classic car a singular treasure.