Barrett-Jackson, renowned for producing “the world’s premier collector car auctions,” roared back into Palm Beach, Florida this weekend, smashing records with the 2024 Palm Beach Auction at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
In addition to premiering new vehicles such as the highly anticipated, debut Ford Mustang GTD, experiences by Barrett-Jackson, Dodge exhilarating rides, Ford high-speed laps in a 2024 Mustang Dark Horse Premium, and a Volvo Driving adventure, the three-day exotic car auction also witnessed several sales surpassing previous records.
This year, a total of 614 vehicles were auctioned, all without Reserve, amassing $45.7 million. “From Aston Martin to Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche, we pride ourselves on curating selections that cater to a broad range of collectors,” said Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson, in an announcement. “This year’s Palm Beach Auction was assembled with an extraordinary array of vehicles. Our bidders responded with an incredible array of six-figure purchases occurring on both Friday and Saturday.”
A demilitarized yet functional 1976 Leopard 1A5 Battle Tank commanded a price of $270,000, while a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Custom Convertible fetched an impressive $305,000. The 1969 Dodge Charger, showcased in the film “Joe Dirt,” went for $330,000.
Auction sales setting new benchmarks included a 2021 Ford GT, with a mere 201 miles on the odometer, reaching $902,000, a 2022 Ferrari SF90 Spider changing hands for $1.1 million, and a 2022 Ford GT Alan Mann Heritage Edition claiming the highest bid at $1,292,500, achieving a new global auction record.
To observe the auction in opulent fashion, the ultimate option is to opt for one of the Barrett-Jackson Experiences offered by On Location, Barrett-Jackson’s exclusive hospitality provider. Whether you choose the sumptuous Luxury Lounge or Craig Jackson’s Skybox, you are ensured a prime viewing position to enjoy the auction in comfort and luxury.
Access to the premier Luxury Lounge included a three-day pass to a private hospitality suite. Visitors relished a dedicated bar, three delectable food presentations, and refreshments all while observing the auction from a superior vantage point. A Barrett-Jackson Bidder’s Assistant and On Location personnel were on-site daily to aid with the bidding experience.
Credentialed visitors also had the privilege to explore the unique auction zones, including the Auction Block and staging lanes. All Access Experiences encompassed a Behind-the-Block Tour, giving participants a glimpse into Barrett-Jackson’s inner workings, together with a keepsake Auction Block Photograph.
Moreover, Luxury Lounge attendees were welcomed to the Opening Night Gal and received Ride ‘N Drive Fast Passes, expediting their turn at the exhilirating Barrett-Jackson Ride ‘N Drive Experience.
For unparalleled luxury, patrons could pre-register for entrance to Craig Jackson’s Skybox, affording them a vantage point from the Proprietor’s Private Skybox. Guests here benefited from the same perks as the Luxury Lounge package in addition to special VIP early entrance to the Barrett-Jackson Opening Night Gal.
“For over two decades, since our first venture there in 2003, Palm Beach has warmly welcomed Barrett-Jackson,” declared Craig Jackson, the chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “Over time, our auctions have grown into the grand automotive lifestyle festivities they are known as today.”
For active participation, attendees could also experience Ford’s newly launched Mustang 60th anniversary package vehicles and the 800-horsepower, road-legal Mustang GTD. The exclusive model’s pricing commences at $300,000.
Press members had the chance to take the wheel of the potent 500-horsepower Mustang Dark Horse, capped off with a companion ride with a professional Ford Performance driver for an adrenaline-spiked adventure.
While the return to Palm Beach is set for the next year, Barrett-Jackson will host an autumn occasion in Scottsdale, Arizona from October 10-13. It’s advisable to secure one of their Luxury Experiences well in advance. You won’t regret it.
Image Source: Steve Lagreca / Shutterstock
