FYI: RM Sotheby’s is set to auction rare and unique cars from the Turborection Collection at Monterey Car Week, including a Bugatti EB110 SS Prototype and the only Vector Avtec WX-3 coupe prototype.
If you’re a car enthusiast, Porsche is likely a household name, famous for models like the iconic 911 or the more contemporary Cayenne and Macan crossovers. Equally renowned is Bugatti, a brand known for producing world-class, record-breaking cars. However, the 1993 Bugatti EB110 SS prototype that’s about to go under the hammer isn’t typically the first Bugatti that comes to mind. Even more obscure are names like Vector Aeromotive, Isdera, and Cizeta.
Monterey Car Week Auction Highlights
For automotive aficionados and ultra-rich car collectors, RM Sotheby’s is preparing a thrilling event during Monterey Car Week in California. The auction will feature an array of automobiles ranging from iconic Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Shelbys to rarer, more unusual cars in what is dubbed the Turborection Collection.
1993 Bugatti EB110 SS Prototype
- Extremely rare prototype: One of only seven built.
- Record-breaking speed: Participated in Bugatti’s speed tests at Naldin in May 1993, reaching 351 km/h, making it the fastest production car at that time.
- Iconic Ownership: Initially sold to celebrated Japanese racing driver Sokichi Shikiba.
- Recent Maintenance: Fitted with a new fuel tank in February 2024.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Finished in Grigio Chiaro Metallic with a striking black trim.
1993 Vector Avtec WX-3 Prototype
- Pioneering American Supercar: The sole WX-3 coupe prototype by Vector, America’s first supercar manufacturer.
- Exhibition Pedigree: Showcased at the 1992 and 1993 Geneva Auto Salons.
- Impeccably Preserved: Less than 2,625 miles on the odometer.
- Powerhouse Engine: Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 7.0-liter all-aluminum V-8 engine, rated conservatively at 1,000 horsepower.
- Recent Restoration: Subjected to a meticulous restoration costing approximately $300,000 from 2019 to 2021.
1991 Isdera Imperator 108i Series 2
- Unique Design: Featuring a striking wedge shape and powered by a Mercedes-Benz V8 engine.
- Limited Edition: Believed to be one of only 13 Series 2 Imperator 108i’s ever produced.
- Low Mileage: Approximately 1,189 miles on the odometer.
- Exclusively Delivered: Initially delivered new to Japan.
1993 Cizeta V16T
- Ultra-Limited: One of only nine completed units.
- Royal Heritage: Initially ordered by the Royal Family of Brunei.
- Exhibition History: Displayed at the 1993 Geneva Motor Show.
- Exotic Powertrain: Features a transverse V-16 engine designed by Marcello Gandini.
1985 Porsche 959 "Vorselin"
- Historical Significance: One of only five surviving V-series 959 prototypes.
- Prestigious Ownership: Initially registered to Ferdinand Piëch, keeping it until 1987.
- Documentation: The most thoroughly documented and photographed pre-series by Dieter Loshaisen.
- Tested Presence: Rigorously tested at locations like Ehra-Lessien, Nardo, Nürburgring, the Contidrom, and cross-continental trips across Europe.
- Literary Fame: Featured in Jurgen Lewandowski’s book, Porsche 959s, with an ownership record.
Conclusion
For those with a discerning eye for automotive excellence, RM Sotheby’s upcoming auction at Monterey Car Week promises an unmissable opportunity to witness and potentially acquire some exceptionally rare and storied vehicles. From groundbreaking prototypes to models with a revered legacy, the Turborection Collection offers a fascinating glimpse into automotive history.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Lawrence Jacobs, Editor of Automotive.fyi
