“Modern Classics” at Retromobile 2017

The classic car market is giving ever more attention to supercars of the modern era. If you think that RM Sotheby’s specialized only in vintage classics, well, you’re wrong. If you’ve been reading magazines like Evo, Octane, Top Gear and every other performance-car-oriented car magazine, you might be surprised that the hottest limited editions of the past (and the present) can still come up for sale.
The Paris Rétromobile auction has brought many great cars, starring the 1934 Alfa Romeo Tipo B, the 1970 Porsche 917/10 prototype and a 1988 Porsche 959 Sport, which stole the show with their timeless beauty, historical significance and astronomical price figures.
While this old metal was taking off, our eyes were set on some of the hottest supercars that were offered for sale.

#1 Porsche 991R
The stunning Porsche 911 R, which was made as a tribute to Steve McQueen, is the 967th example of 991 and the only PTS (Paint to Sample) R delivered to France. A great specification on the most highly anticipated Porsche of the modern era, with 550 bhp, a manual gearbox and no wings or other fancy “go faster” options: driving purity beyond anything else.

#2 Mercedes-Benz AMG S
It’s the forgotten limited edition from one of the coolest Benzes of the last 20 years. It’s the XXI Century Gullwing, for which it is the reinterpretation of the legendary 300 SL of the 1950ies. Stiffer suspension and the brutal sound of that 6.2 liter V8 makes for a highly collectable, track-day special Mercedes.

#3 Ferrari 599 GTO
The King of the Mountain, perhaps one of the most beautiful Berlinetta that Ferrari has ever made. Developed directly from the Nurburgring-smoking 599XX, the GTO was the ultimate Ferrari when it came out in 2012. An updated engine with new air intakes, new exhaust and upgraded chassis allowed this 670 hp beast to achieve stunning performance, still impressive after years since the new F12 Berlinetta has taken its place.

#4 Aston Martin V12 Zagato
“La Zero” was its unofficial name at Zagato when back in 2012 this new legendary Aston Martin was being produced for its first customer. Part of a special run of 65 cars built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the DB4 GT Zagato, this car is a highly customized example, featuring the logo made out of real beetle wings and the engine bearing a special plaque, commemorating the first of the series. This timeless GT has been one of the stars of this great Paris Auction.