Author Archives: Trevor Freeman

About Trevor Freeman

Trevor is a real gearhead who loves everything from classic American muscle cars to high-performance exotics. When he's not reading about cars or taking photos at a car show, he's probably out cruising around. He is currently working on restoring a 1980 Chevrolet Monza hatchback.

Janet Cussler Car Collection Headlines RM Sotheby’s Arizona 2025 Collector Car Auction

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1929 Minerva Model AK Coupe Chauffeur by Hibbard & Darrin. Photo by: RM Sotheby’s

January in Arizona is an exciting time for car collectors, as Arizona Car Week kicks off with multiple auctions and events taking place in the mild winter climate. Near the base of Piestewa Peak mountain is the luxurious Arizona Biltmore resort, which will once again set the stage for one of the most highly anticipated collector car auctions of the year.

The RM Sotheby’s Arizona 2025 event, now in its 27th year, features a spectacular showcase of automobiles, from pre-war antiques to modern day supercars.

Event Details

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience:

  • Free Preview Day: January 23, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Auction Start: January 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM

The Arizona Biltmore’s elegant ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event, which will feature a catalog of 92 exceptional vehicles. From vintage classics to rare collector’s items, this auction is a must-see for car enthusiasts, collectors, and historians alike.

A Highlighted Collection: The Janet Cussler Cars

Headlining this year’s auction is the offering of 32 antique and pre-war vehicles from the personal collection of Janet Cussler. These remarkable cars are a testament to the legacy of her late husband, Clive Cussler, a renowned novelist and passionate car collector.

Clive Cussler (1931-2020) was a literary giant, best known for his thrilling adventure novels. Over his prolific career, he penned more than 80 books that captivated readers worldwide. Beyond his writing, Cussler had a passion for classic cars, amassing an impressive collection of pre-war and 1950s automobiles. With over 150 vehicles in total, the bulk of his collection resides at the Cussler Museum in Arvada, Colorado, now managed by his children.

After Clive’s passing, Janet Cussler, his devoted wife and partner since their marriage in 2008, has chosen to part with a selection of vehicles from their Arizona home. These 32 vehicles, each with its own unique story, will take center stage at RM Sotheby’s Arizona auction, offering a rare glimpse into the couple’s shared passion for automotive history.

What to Expect

This year’s auction catalog reflects the diversity and richness of automotive design through the ages. Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship of antique cars, the innovation of pre-war models, or the enduring charm of 1950s classics, this event is sure to have something for everyone.

The free preview day on January 23 provides an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the collection, appreciating the intricate details and storied pasts of these iconic vehicles. For serious collectors, the auction on January 24 is a chance to bring home a piece of history.

The Janet Cussler Car Collection

  • 1869 Western Concord-Style Stagecoach Recreation
  • 1903 Oldsmobile Model R ‘Curved-Dash’ Runabout
  • 1906 Packard Model S Touring
  • 1907 Cadillac Model M Touring
  • 1908 Columbus Autobuggy
  • 1910 Buick Model 10 Touring
  • 1911 Ford Model T Runabout
  • 1911 Pierce-Arrow Model 66-A Runabout
  • 1911 REO Thirty Touring
  • 1914 Chevrolet Series H-2 ‘Royal Mail’ Roadster
  • 1914 Renault Type EF Town Car by Locke
  • 1916 Pierce-Arrow Model 48-B-4 Touring
  • 1917 Cadillac Type 55 Victoria
  • 1919 Kissel Model 6-45 Speedster
  • 1919 Locomobile Model 48, Series 6 Town Car by Demarest
  • 1921 Mercer Series 5 Sporting
  • 1921 Wills Sainte Claire A-68 Touring
  • 1922 Cunningham V4 Town Limousine
  • 1923 Jewett Model 18-22 Special Touring
  • 1923 Stutz Speedway Four Roadster
  • 1927 Cadillac V-8 Sport Phaeton by Fisher
  • 1929 Minerva Model AK Coupe Chauffeur by Hibbard & Darrin
  • 1929 Packard 640 Custom Eight Phaeton
  • 1930 Cadillac V-16 All-Weather Phaeton by Fleetwood
  • 1930 Packard 740 Custom Eight Sport Phaeton
  • 1931 Cadillac V-12 Touring by Fleetwood
  • 1931 Ford Model A DeLuxe Roadster
  • 1932 Lincoln Model KB Dual-Cowl Sport Phaeton
  • 1936 Packard 1407 Twelve Five-Passenger Coupe
  • 1937 Chrysler Airflow Eight Sedan
  • 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged ‘Sportsman’ Cabriolet
  • 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr Three-Window Coupe

Join the Legacy

RM Sotheby’s Arizona auction has long been a hallmark event of Arizona Car Week. This year, the Janet Cussler Collection presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to see and appreciate the beauty of these vehicles, as well as celebrate the lives and passions of those who cherished them.

Whether you’re an avid collector, a casual enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of classic automobiles, the 2025 Arizona auction is an event not to be missed. Join RM Sotheby’s at the Arizona Biltmore for an extraordinary journey through automotive history and design.

For more information and to view the full catalog, visit RM Sotheby’s website. We’ll see you in Phoenix for a celebration of automotive excellence and enduring legacy.

SEMA 2024: 1966 Ford Bronco “Pure” by RMD Garage

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It is no secret that classic Broncos are enjoying a surge in popularity in recent years. With the introduction of the new Bronco in 2021 and the growth of the overlanding segment, classic 4x4s are hotter than ever. At the 2024 SEMA Show, one build stood out with timeless style and modern engineering: a fully reimagined 1966 Ford Bronco nicknamed “Pure.”

Restored and customized by RMD Garage, this stunning build captivated crowds in the Toyo Tires Treadpass area with its clean lines, polished chrome, and beach-ready charm.
“Pure” isn’t just a restored classic; it is a complete transformation. RMD Garage, the Long Beach, California-based custom shop founded by Ralph Holguin, has a long-standing reputation for elevating vintage vehicles into rolling works of art. You might even remember the shop from its one-season show on Motor Trend in the mid-2000s. At SEMA, RMD showed that their passion for bespoke builds has only grown since then.

The foundation of the Bronco build is an all-new Kincer Chassis, which gives old trucks a new lease on life, offering improved strength and reducing chassis flex. Better yet, it is officially licensed by Ford. The redesigned frame is two inches wider inside, creating crucial room for upgraded components like modern drivetrains, long tube headers, and transfer cases.

Powering “Pure” is a Ford 5.0L Coyote V8, a favorite among restomod builders for its combination of performance and reliability. Stopping power is provided by Wilwood disc brakes, which are a massive upgrade from the original 1960s brake system.

But it’s the attention to detail that truly defines this build. Every bolt on the truck has been replaced with new ones that are engraved with “RMD Garage” on the heads. That alone must have added thousands to the cost of this build, ordering entirely new hardware with custom engraving! It is details like this that elevate a SEMA build above a simple restoration.

Step inside, and the Bronco reveals a cabin more refined than most luxury SUVs. The interior is a blend of crisp white bucket seats, a color-matched dashboard, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a polished chrome center. The gauges from Classic Instruments are customized with RMD Garage’s logo, adding a subtle nod to the builder’s craftsmanship.

Tan patterned material covers the flooring, door panels, and headliner, offering warm contrast to the otherwise light interior. A custom center console trimmed in light wood features two cupholders, a nice touch. While the white color palette might raise questions about off-road practicality, there is no denying that the interior is an elegant and comfortable place to be.

Above the pristine interior sits a lift-off hardtop, revealing a polished chrome roll bar for safety and style. The rooftop luggage rack features a matching white and chrome trunk, rounding out the aesthetic with a touch of luxurious, adventure flair.
Whether basking in the SEMA spotlight or cruising through Long Beach on a sunny California afternoon, “Pure” lives up to its name. It’s a showpiece that has been carefully engineered, tastefully styled, while retaining the classic look of the very first model year of the Ford Bronco.

RMD Garage has once again proven their mastery of automotive art, breathing new life into a classic while staying true to its spirit. “Pure” isn’t just a truck, it’s a bold, clean, and built with purpose.

Follow @rmdsgarage on Instagram for more.

SEMA 2024: 1969 Adams Probe 16 Movie Car

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While strolling the crowded halls of the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, I stumbled upon something truly unexpected: the 1969 Adams Brothers Probe 16. This car wasn’t just another showpiece; it is a time capsule of automotive design and movie history. Parked among rows of cutting-edge builds and custom creations. Though it was half-hidden beneath a car cover, once I spotted the car, it was impossible to ignore.

The Adams Probe 16 is no ordinary collector’s car. According to Bonhams Auction House, it is one of only three chassis ever built by brothers Dennis and Peter Adams. Known for their boundary-pushing designs, the Adams Brothers envisioned the Probe 16 as a glimpse into the future of motoring. With its wildly futuristic body and low slung chassis, the car was designed to be both experimental and provocative.

Of the three cars built, two have been neglected over the decades and are now in need of restoration. The one I saw at SEMA is the most original and unrestored example in existence. A true survivor, it has weathered the decades without being dismantled, modified, or forgotten.

The car made its debut back in October 1969 at the London Motor Show. Powered by a BMC 1.8-liter OHV inline 4-cylinder engine that was tuned by JanSpeed, the powerplant is mounted transversely in the chassis, probably more out of necessity than performance.

But what really cemented the Probe 16’s place in pop culture was its role in Stanley Kubrick’s dystopian 1971 film A Clockwork Orange. Renamed the “Durango 95” in the film, it served as the surreal and sinister mode of transportation for the gang of Droogs led by Malcolm McDowell’s Alex DeLarge. That brief screen appearance made the Probe 16 a cult classic among car lovers and movie buffs alike.

After its cameo in the movie, the Probe 16 spent much of the 1970s and 1980s in Canada before returning to the U.K. around 1990. From April 2019 through March 2020, the car was part of the “Hollywood Dream Machines – Vehicles of Science Fiction and Fantasy” exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. This curated event featured more than 40 iconic screen-used vehicles from movies and video games. The Probe 16 was a fitting addition, since its radical lines still look more like science fiction than reality, even half a century after its creation.

Seeing this car in person at SEMA was such an unexpected surprise. This obscure, hand-built, British sports car turned movie star was the last thing I expected to see at the convention for aftermarket and modified car parts. The juxtaposition of this artsy, postwar machine sitting among modern custom builds and being used to promote car covers made the moment even more surreal. All I could do was smile and snap some photos before moving on to the next booth, and the next car. You truly never know what you might come across at the SEMA Show!

Celebrate the Art of Engineering at the 2025 Arizona Concours d’Elegance

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Car enthusiasts and lovers of fine craftsmanship, mark your calendars! The 2025 Arizona Concours d’Elegance is set to return on Sunday, January 19, 2025, promising a spectacular celebration of automotive beauty and innovation. Hosted at the Scottsdale Civic Center, this highly anticipated event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering an unforgettable day of automotive excellence and artistry.

Celebrating The Art of Engineering

The Arizona Concours d’Elegance is more than just a car show; it is a celebration of the Art of Engineering. This year’s theme highlights the balance between design and technology that makes these classic and exotic cars a work of art. Whether it’s the graceful lines of a vintage automobile or the cutting-edge precision of modern engineering, the event honors the craftsmanship and creativity that define automotive history.

A Showcase of Over 100 Remarkable Vehicles

This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring more than 100 distinct vehicles presented in 16 unique classes. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to see some of the world’s most stunning automobiles up close, including:

  • Timeless pre-war classics that capture the essence of a bygone era
  • Impeccably restored mid-century marvels that shaped automotive design
  • Cutting-edge modern exotics showcasing innovation and performance

Each car on display tells its own story, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolution of automotive engineering and style over the decades.

The Perfect Setting: Scottsdale Civic Center

The Scottsdale Civic Center serves as the ideal backdrop for this annual event. Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, the beautifully landscaped grounds provide an elegant and inviting atmosphere for showcasing these iconic vehicles. Stroll through lush gardens, take in the beauty of the meticulously restored automobiles, and enjoy a day immersed in automotive culture and history.

Why You Should Attend

The Arizona Concours d’Elegance is a must-attend event for car enthusiasts of all ages. Here’s what makes this show stand out:

  • Unparalleled Variety: From classic icons to modern masterpieces, the diverse lineup ensures there is something for everyone to admire.
  • A Celebration of Innovation: Explore how automotive engineering has evolved over the years, blending art and function.
  • Stunning Venue: Enjoy a day in Scottsdale’s Civic Center, surrounded by elegant cars, beautiful scenery, and like-minded enthusiasts.
  • Community & Culture: The event brings together passionate collectors, industry experts, and fans to celebrate a shared love of automobiles.

Event Information

  • Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Location: Scottsdale Civic Center, Scottsdale, Arizona

Mark your calendars now and don’t miss this extraordinary event. Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of world-class design and engineering, the 2025 Arizona Concours d’Elegance offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the artistry of the automobile.

Final Thoughts

The Arizona Concours d’Elegance isn’t just an event; it’s a journey through history, innovation, and craftsmanship. Join fellow enthusiasts in celebrating The Art of Engineering at this premier automotive showcase. Be ready to marvel at more than 100 remarkable vehicles, enjoy Scottsdale’s vibrant setting, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

See you at the 2025 Arizona Concours d’Elegance!

SEMA 2024: 1959 Chevrolet Apache Pickup by Stafford’s Garage

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The introduction of the Chevrolet C/K series in 1960 was a turning point for pickup trucks. More than 60 years later, the C/K series is still highly regarded by enthusiasts and collectors. But before that was the Task Force line of trucks from 1955-1959.

At the 2024 SEMA Show, nestled among the heavy hitters in the Toyo Tires Treadpass pavilion, I stopped in my tracks to admire this custom 1959 Chevrolet Apache Fleetside nicknamed “Thunderchief.”

This stunning ride was built by Chris Stafford of Stafford’s Garage. Based in Las Vegas, Stafford’s Garage turns vintage metal into rolling pieces of art. With “Thunderchief,” Stafford has raised the bar for what a restomod can be, blending postwar design with modern materials and craftsmanship.

The Apache’s big window cab distinguishes it from the small back window C10s that followed, but it’s the deep, dark gray metallic paint that pulls you in. The color is rich and lustrous, looking elegant in the shade, but sparkling in the sunlight.

Against this moody exterior, the truck has a full custom red interior. I’m talking seats, carpet, dash, door panels, everything! Bits of chrome accents break up the sea of redness.

Inside, every detail is executed with care. The interior maintains the truck’s heritage with new reproduction gauges and an original-style radio. The red leather-wrapped chrome steering wheel with flat bottom is a modern touch in this classic truck interior.

“Thunderchief” rides on a set of 20-inch Raceline billet wheels. The wheels have a slotted design with a polished lip and are color matched red with silver accents.

They sort of remind me of monoblock style wheels on a Mercedes, but with tri-bar center caps. I think these wheels complement the truck’s smooth body lines and aggressive stance. It’s the kind of setup that says this is a show truck, but it can still haul stuff if needed.

One of the standout features of this build is the flawless chrome work. Every piece, from the bumpers to the trim, is polished to a mirror finish. The side of the bed has beautiful chrome and red trim pieces that just work on a 1950s era truck. It’s the kind of meticulous detail that separates good builds from great ones — and “Thunderchief” is firmly in the latter category.

Among the thousands of vehicles at SEMA, only about two dozen have the honor of getting invited to the Toyo Tires Treadpass pavilion. This area houses a curated group of elite custom builds, any one of which could be on a magazine cover. This Apache pickup certainly deserved its place among these special vehicles.

I will keep my eyes out for more vehicles from Chris Stafford and Stafford’s Garage in the future. The craftsmanship and detail shown in “Thunderchief” really shows what they are capable of building, while staying true to the spirit of the original truck.

For more, follow @staffords_garage on Instagram.

1953 Allstate Custom Coupe – The Mail Order Car

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You’ve never heard of an Allstate car? Well, I hadn’t either until I was standing in front of one at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Fall auction. This 1953 Allstate Custom Coupe is a curious piece of automotive history, representing a brief period when Sears ventured into the car business.

In response to surging demand for new cars as part of the postwar economic boom, companies like Crosley were cranking out small, basic cars at an affordable price. Not wanting to miss out, the Sears company partnered with the struggling Kaiser-Frazer corporation to offer a mail-order car. Sold exclusively through the Sears & Roebuck catalog in 1952 and 1953, only 797 examples of this unique vehicle were ever produced. The original price was $1,589, equivalent to about $18,775 in 2024.

Despite being 7 decades old, this Allstate has been transformed into a stunning custom creation, and recently sold at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Fall collector car auction for $17,270. Let’s explore what makes this car so special.

The Original Allstate: A Catalog Car with Character

In the early 1950s, Sears sought to extend its influence into the automotive world by offering a car that could be purchased alongside home appliances and garden tools. The Allstate was essentially a rebadged Henry J, tailored for Sears customers with unique branding and slight modifications. While it wasn’t a high-performance vehicle, it stood out for its affordability, becoming a rare collectible over time.

Modern Performance: A Custom Transformation

This particular 1953 Allstate Custom Coupe has undergone a complete transformation, blending its vintage design with modern performance. Under the hood is a Ford 302 V8 engine equipped with an HEI distributor, headers, and an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor. This powerful setup delivers far more punch than the original Henry J, which was offered with a 68 horsepower inline-4 engine and later, an 80 horsepower inline-6 engine. Paired with a 3-speed C4 automatic transmission and a Hurst Pro-Matic 2 shifter, the car offers smooth and spirited driving.

The drivetrain has been upgraded with a Ford 8-inch rear end featuring 3.55 rear gears and posi-traction, ensuring excellent traction and acceleration. To keep things cool, an aluminum radiator and electric fan have been installed, making the car reliable even under demanding conditions.

Unique Restoration: A Toyota Frame

In a prior restoration, this Allstate has been swapped onto a 1977 Toyota pickup frame, which is certainly more durable than the car’s original frame which was designed to be manufactured as cheaply as possible. The frame’s manual rack and pinion steering improves handling, while the modernized suspension offers a smoother ride compared to the original chassis.

Inside, Toyota front bucket seats with fold-up armrests provide comfort and functionality, complemented by a custom center console, gauges, and a Woodward speedometer. These updates enhance the driving experience while maintaining a nod to the car’s vintage roots.

Distinctive Features: A Blend of Old and New

This custom coupe boasts several distinctive features that set it apart from other restomods. An original hood ornament that lights up with the headlamps adds a touch of whimsy, harkening back to the playful design cues of the 1950s. Though not currently installed, the listing description says that the car includes an original Allstate under-dash air conditioning unit, a rare and nostalgic accessory.

While the front bumper has been removed for a sleeker look, it is included with the car according to the listing.

A Collector’s Dream

With only 797 Allstate Coupes ever produced, finding one is a rarity. Discovering one that has been so carefully customized and modernized is even more remarkable. The $17,270 sale price at the Barrett-Jackson auction reflects the unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and performance this car offers.

Final Thoughts

The 1953 Allstate Custom Coupe is a compelling example of how vintage vehicles can be reimagined for the modern era. By combining a rare piece of automotive history with contemporary upgrades, this custom creation preserves the spirit of the original while delivering daily-driver reliability. Whether you are a fan of unique collectibles or innovative restomods, this Allstate is a true standout.