RM Sotheby’s Kicks off 2022 with scorching hot sales in Arizona

PHOENIX, Arizona – RM Sotheby’s kicked off its 2022 live auction calendar with the company’s 23rd annual Arizona sale at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix on January 27th. The one-day auction totaled $43.3 million in sales, with 95 percent of all lots sold with registered bidders from thirty different countries. An impressive 24% of all registered bidders were first-time clients, showcasing the continued growth of the industry.

Leading all sales was a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing that sold for an incredible $6.8 million. Boasting exceptional provenance and in the ultimate specification, the Alloy Gullwing is considered one of the most desirable road-going models of the marque. This particular car was one of very few to retain its numbers-matching 3.0-liter NSL engine and original alloy body.

The 1931 Duesenberg Model J Tourster, one of the most iconic of all American cars of its era, drew crowds during preview days. Boasting magnificent original coachwork, this CCCA Full Classic had received a meticulous restoration by RM Auto Restoration, retains all its original components, and sold for an outstanding $3.4 million, exceeding its pre-sale high estimate.

The third highest-grossing car was an exceptional 300 SL Roadster—one of just three cars invoiced in 1964. The 1964 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster offered in Arizona was the third-to-last 300 SL to be produced. The late production model car remained in single ownership from 1971 to 2013 and received a full cosmetic restoration in 2014. Being outfitted with the rarest specifications, such as an alloy block and disc brakes, the 300 SL Roadster sold for an exceptional $2.3 million.

RM Sotheby’s continued to break new ground in the collector car market by offering a world-famous supercar alongside a unique NFT package, owned and created by Oscar-winning music legend and the “Father of Disco,” Giorgio Moroder. Rounding off the top 10 most valuable lots of the evening, the 1988 Cizeta-Moroder V16T received more attention as it drew onlookers all week. Being the original Cizeta-Moroder prototype and the most famous example of the model, the Cizeta did not disappoint selling for $1.3 million alongside the first of its kind NFT.

Additional top sale highlights from RM Sotheby’s Arizona auction included two impressive collections. The Tenenbaum Collection featured a selection of European sports and supercars. Holding desirable specifications, low production numbers, originality, and unique color combinations, the collection sold in its entirety for an impressive $7.5 million, well over high estimate. The star of the collection was the 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder selling for $1.6 million. The Dr. Terry Maxon Collection offered a variety of classic Ferraris which did not disappoint. The star of the Maxon Collection was the stunning 1967 Ferrari 330 GTS selling for $1.9 million.

Complete results from RM Sotheby’s Arizona auction and additional information on all upcoming RM Sotheby’s 2022 events are available at rmsothebys.com.

About RM Sotheby’s
RM Sotheby’s is the world's largest collector car auction house by total sales. With 40 years of proven results in the collector car industry, RM’s vertically integrated range of services, from auctions (live and online) and private sales to estate planning and financial services, coupled with an expert team of Car Specialists and an international footprint, provide an unsurpassed level of service to the global collector car market. www.rmsothebys.com

If you like stories like these and other classic car features, check out Old Cars magazine. CLICK HERE to subscribe.

Have you ever wondered what your classic ride is worth? Old Cars has you covered with the Old Cars Report Price Guide. We are your source for unbiased and real-world pricing. Subscribe today and find out what your car is really worth! CLICK HERE to subscribe.