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Why This RUF 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo Didn’t Meet Reserve

PLUS: Finding Deals Off the Beaten Path...

The Daily Vroom

Good Morning Vroomers,

Yesterday was a fantastic day with a wave of new subscribers joining us! A warm welcome to each and every one of you.

If you have any questions, suggestions, or just want to chat, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Catch you tomorrow!

Sam

MARKET LEADERBOARD

💰 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+ vehicles in the chart below.

You'd think with our friends across the pond taking a tea break for their national holiday, and us still nursing our Monterey Car Week hangovers, that yesterday's sales would be as flat as week-old soda. But hey, the online market laughs in the face of logic!

Despite it being a Monday (ugh), the market still managed to pull off a whopper of a sales day. We're talking just shy of $8.5 million worth of metal changing hands, people! That's not chump change.

Now, I know you're dying to know who the big players were in this unexpected bonanza. So, without further ado, let's break down the top 5 makes that had cash registers singing yesterday.

YESTERDAY’S TOP 5 SALES

Want to dive deeper into any of these listings? Just click on the car to take you directly to the listing.

1983 Lamborghini Countach LP5000 S $745,000

1961 Aston Martin DB4 Series III 4.0L $470,000

2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS Weissach Package $370,000

2022 Lamborghini Huracan STO $340,000

1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GT Project $275,000

Why This RUF 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo Didn’t Meet Reserve

The Modified 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo with a RUF Turbo R conversion kit is undoubtedly an impressive vehicle, but it didn’t generate the level of attention expected during its recent auction. Despite a high bid of $232,000, it didn't meet the reserve, which indicates there were a few factors at play here.

Compared to previous RUF-modified vehicles, the view count for this listing was noticeably lower, suggesting that it didn’t capture the right audience’s interest.

A significant factor in this outcome could be the listing itself. The seller, new to the platform, might not have realized the importance of including “RUF Modified” prominently in the title—an oversight that the platform should have caught. The RUF brand is iconic among Porsche aficionados, and leading with that detail could have significantly boosted visibility. A seasoned power seller, familiar with the nuances of selling high-end modified Porsches, would have recognized this and made sure the RUF modifications were front and center.

On the other hand, it’s also possible that the seller had expectations shaped by the peak of the market. If the car was purchased at a high price, and then as we know substantial sums were invested in modifications and upkeep, the seller might have hoped to see these investments reflected in the final bid. It’s a common scenario: an owner pours money into a vehicle and expects a return that the current market doesn’t support. This often happens, and as I’ve often said, a car’s market value is determined by what someone will pay for it today—no matter the investment behind it.

If the seller chooses to list again, collaborating with a power seller could make a significant difference. They would ensure the listing is optimized, highlighting key modifications and tapping into the right buyer demographic. This approach could bring in more views, attract serious bidders, and potentially reach a final bid that aligns with both the market value and the seller’s expectations.

Fun Auction of the Day: A Mini Military Marvel!

Looking for a unique and fun addition to your collection? Today’s auction highlight is a real conversation starter that’s sure to bring a smile to your face—and maybe even the kids' too! Up for grabs is a Sherwood Toys Army Jeep Pedal Car, currently sitting at a bid of just $980, ending today. At this price, why the hell not?

This vintage pedal car is a charming replica of a US Army Willys Jeep, produced in the 1950s as part of Sherwood Toys' Action Toys range. Decked out in green with authentic US Army roundels and military-style stenciling, this little Jeep even comes with a folding windshield and a faux machine gun mounted on the hood. It's got all the bells and whistles to make any kid feel like they’re commanding their own mini army.

For those nostalgic for simpler times or just looking to add a quirky piece to their automobilia collection, this pedal car is a steal. And since it’s offered at no reserve, someone is definitely going home with this charming piece of history.

Remember, this isn't just a toy—it's a piece of mid-century Americana that will bring a touch of vintage military cool to any garage, man cave, or living room.

Finding Deals Off the Beaten Path: Smaller Auction Sites You Should Know

So often here in The Daily Vroom, we highlight cars that either sell well for the buyer or have been bought well. And, let's be honest, the majority of these mentions go to the big names—those well-known platforms everyone flocks to. But here’s a nugget of wisdom: finding vehicles that are well-priced isn’t a walk in the park. It’s a bit like finding a needle in a haystack, especially if you’re not armed with systems to monitor price fluctuations, trends, and all the other fine details. There are just too many auctions happening daily, and without some serious strategy, you’re flying blind.

I’ll dive into the bigger platforms later—how to zero in on the vehicles you want at a price that either suits your budget or, even better, becomes a steal. But for today, let's shift our focus. Let’s give a shout-out to some of the smaller platforms that don’t usually grab the big headlines here in The Daily Vroom, but whose auctions I’ve been following closely. These are platforms where traffic isn't overwhelming, which means the odds of finding a well-priced gem are much higher. And who doesn’t love a good deal?

Here’s a list of 10 underrated platforms where you can potentially find great bargains: (in no particular order)

The auction world doesn't sit still. Some of these platforms might just be the next big ones, gaining traction as more buyers discover the value and variety they offer. These smaller platforms may not have the same volume as the big names, but that can work to your advantage. With less competition, your chances of landing a deal are much better. (some also don’t have the best user experience, so be warned!!).

Of course, like with any platform, you need to do your due diligence when buying vehicles. Treat it like any other shopping experience: ask questions, reach out to the seller, call the contact number on the website (if there’s one), and make sure you understand what you’re getting into. There are bargains to be had away from the bigger names—you just have to know where to look and be prepared to do your homework. Happy hunting!

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