Three Jerry Seinfeld Porsches heading for auction
The world famous comedian and avid car collector could net more than $10 million when three vintage models from his collection go under the hammer at the Amelia Island Auction in Florida in March.
The cars in question are a 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder, a 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 IROC RSR and a 1958 Porsche 365 A 1500 GS/GT Carrera Speedster. Each of which is as immaculate as it is rare and highly sought. So much so that any of the cars in question would automatically become the pinnacle of anyone else's classic car collection.
"We are grateful and honored to be entrusted with these superb examples from the collection of Jerry Seinfeld, these cars epitomize the highest of quality and pedigree," said David Gooding, President of Gooding & Company. "Jerry's keen eye for significant Porsches, the care and pride he takes in maintaining his spectacular collection and his enthusiasm and passion for the Porsche marque, makes this one of our most thrilling sales in our company's history."
In particular, the 550 Spyder, despite its racing pedigree, is still completely original -- engine, body and transaxle all match. And as well as the Seinfeld link, there is also the James Dean connection. The movie star was killed while driving a 550, helping to cement the car's place in Hollywood as well as automotive history. Little wonder that the estimate slapped on the car is $5-$6 million.
However, Seinfeld insists that parting with the cars has nothing to do with their current value. "I've never bought a car as an investment," he said. "I don't really even think of myself as a collector. I just love cars. And I still love these cars. But it's time to send some of them back into the world, for someone else to enjoy, as I have."
As well as these three classics, the March 11 auction, one of the highlights of the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, is expected to feature a number of other cars -- predominantly of the Porsche variety -- belonging to the stand-up comedian although details are currently scarce.
Some have suggested that as much as 10% of Seinfeld's collection is being sold on to make room for new additions -- after all the biggest challenge to maintaining a car collection is finding somewhere to keep it as it starts growing.
Still, one thing is certain: Seinfeld's 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS will not be one of those cars going under the hammer. "I bought it from a dead guy, and it's not getting sold again until I'm dead. This car doesn't change hands without someone dying," he famously said.
