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When looking to purchase a pre-war car, what matters more – an original vehicle that is genuinely from that era or a passionate recreation of an extinct stunner from back in the day? This is exactly the debate that will likely arise amongst collectors present at the up-coming RM Sotheby’s classic car auction on 5th & 6th October. Based in Hershey’s Pennsylvanian theme park, it’s not the American confectionery that will be the main attraction, but rather the abundant collection of vintage cars going under the hammer on the premises.
Virtually representing authenticity itself is a 1923 Ford Model T Coupe which, combined with a recent recoating in Ford’s legendary all-black option, is a New-York registered historic vehicle that proudly displays its history as a fleet vehicle with US cheese company ‘Heluva Good!’. Not only does the Model T embody the very principles of the American dream, this particular model also possesses rear-opening coupe doors, instrument panels, and a sheet metal firewall, all of which were considered ‘modern features’ back when this car first hit the road.
However, if the sale of cheese by Model T doesn’t quite seal the deal, perhaps the 1930 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A ‘Flying Star’ Recreation will instead capture your heart. Finished in bright white, chassis and all, this stunning motorcar was fondly given the name of ‘Flying Star’ thanks to its gracious lines, highlighted in waisted chrome running from bonnet to rear, that epitomize the flaring tail of a comet. This ‘Flying Star’ is both one of the most exotic and expensive in the Hershey sale, but unlike most of the other lots, did not exist prior to the pre-war years. Meanwhile, the original had already graced the Milan Show of 1931 but was unfortunately destroyed during World War II. For all her beauty, the ‘Flying Star’ on offer in Pennsylvania is not original but perhaps, after just one glance, the majority of bidders will instantly forgive this characteristic and alternatively focus on the painstaking effort invested in recreating a vehicle with such an alluring presence.
And this brings us back to our dilemma between what matters more between originality and beauty in our pre-war cars. It’s clearly a real choc and cheese decision …
Words by Gillian Carmoodie. Images by Motorcar Studios, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.