2015 Vette City Classic Collector Car Auction in Bowling Green

Bowling Green, Ky., is the location of the factory that builds the new Corvette Stingray. That should be enough to draw any car guy to the Bluegrass State. But last weekend there was an even greater incentive, as the Vette City Classic Car Auction rolled through Bowling Green’s ABC Auto Auction. Auctioneer Phillip Traylor presided over 100 specialty cars, trucks, tractors, and motor homes during this one-day event. Naturally, I went up there and took some pictures. Let’s take a look at some of the standouts.

The nicest old car on the lot, without a doubt, was this ’55 Chevrolet Bel Air. The Gypsy Red and India Ivory two-door sedan was on all of the flyers and promotional materials for the auction, because it really was the star of the show. The little red 265-c.i. V8 was connected to a three-speed manual transmission—the perfect setup for summer cruising. You tend to see more hardtops restored to this high level, but it’s actually nice to see a sedan that hasn’t been turned into a gasser or hot rod of some kind. This car sold for $35,000, which seemed pretty reasonable for something this nice.

If there is a ’64 Cadillac Eldorado in da' house, you know I’m going to write about it. In 1964, these did not look that much different than a DeVille convertible, save for the fenderskirtless rear wheel wells and other small details. Among them were the Cadillac crests on the quarter panels, and the “ELDORADO” lettering on the front fenders (which were missing here). I was drawn to this car from across the parking lot, and although it was fitted with an unfortunate brown interior made from vinyl better suited for restaurant booths, you still can’t deny the power of one of these Eldorados. It was purchased for $25,000.

This ’49 Ford coupe was somewhat intriguing. The diamond-tufted bucket seat interior suggests that this was customized back in maybe the late-‘60s/early ‘70s. The Cragar wheels and white-letter tires go along with that theme. The flamed and pinstriped flat black paintjob appears to be a more current upgrade. There’s an overhead-valve V8 behind the bullet grille. I don’t actually know if this car was built like this a long time ago or not, but it sure seems like it was, and I like it better for that. It didn’t sell on Saturday, but it’s neat enough that the owner probably didn’t want to give it away.

Now let’s drop back two years for this 1947 Buick Series 50 “Super” convertible. When it comes to comfort, function, and drivability, this one had been modernized. It had a shiny emerald green paintjob with soft tan leather. I didn’t see under the hood, but I’m guessing by the way it sat it probably had a modern sub-frame and some kind of later-model power. This car was definitely pretty, and looked like something you could actually enjoy driving on a cross-country tour. It did not sell, although I suspect it had a pretty high reserve.

I used to think these ’68 Skylarks were ugly, but over time I’ve acquired a fondness for them. This Cameo Cream hardtop sported saddle bucket seats and a nice set of Buick Road Wheels. These cars are sort of like a Chevelle that a grown-up would drive. The worst part about this particular example was the tires. They’re PRIMEWELL SPORT PS860s. I know, because that is emblazoned on the sidewalls in huge white letters. This car didn’t sell this time, but maybe they’ll have better luck if they flip those horrendous hides inside out. Overall, this is a nice car that should make someone a nice cruiser.

I took a bunch of pictures at the Vette City Classic Collector Car Auction. You can see them in the slideshow below, or click this link for a nicer version.