Southern California is often heaven for vintage cars, no harsh weather to break them down and long straight roads for driving. On June 14, RM Auctions will present one of the great Southern California collections, the one belonging to the late Joe MacPherson. MacPherson was a passionate car enthusiast who spent his life devoted to buying, selling and restoring collectible automobiles which he kept at 'Joe's Garage' - a private automotive museum and banquet facility in Tustin, California. The auction will feature 50 historic motor cars for sale, in addition to selected memorabilia and a 25 outstanding motorcycles.
Highlights of the collection include the record-holding 1954 Chrisman Ford Bonneville Coupe, built by the famous Chrisman brothers; a 1957 McCluskey Sprint Car "Tamale Wagon", which won over 120 races and four California Racing Association championships; a 1966 Gurney Eagle Indy Car, which is considered amongst the most beautiful and inspiring of all Gurney Eagles ever built; and a multiple race-winning 1992 Chevrolet Lumina formerly owned by the legendary Dale Earnhardt. The big ticket of the auction is one of the most important Miller racing cars in existence, the supercharged 1923 Miller 122. Badged number 2, this example was driven by such racing greats as Eddie Hearne, Ira Vail, Earl Cooper and Bill Albertson. Following its retirement from racing and a full restoration, this car was awarded 'Best in Class' at the 2006 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. It is estimated to sell fro $900,000 to $1.2 million.
