1967 Porsche 911S

Sometimes, when you can't find the perfect car, you have to build it yourself. That's exactly what Bruce Canepa did with this 1967 Porsche 911S. The original car was found in Washington state with a surprising lack of rust, and with all the original parts. The next step was a complete teardown. Every piece of the car was broken down, restored, and reassembled — from replating to repainting. A slight motor massage and a set of totally unfindable Recaro NOS racing seats top off the job. With almost no miles since the restoration, this a 911 that is more than ready to be driven.

Jaguar E-type Zero

Classic looks. Cutting edge tech. Based on a 1968 Series 1.5 Roadster, the Jaguar E-type Zero offers an iconic silhouette, while underneath an all-electric powertrain has it prepared for a sustainable future. Engineered by Jaguar Land Rover Classic, it has a slightly modified fascia, with LED headlights for efficiency, and revised instrumentation inspired by the original. It's lighter than its vintage sibling, and quicker, too — it moves from 0-62 mph in just 5.5 seconds — even though the power output was limited to better match the set-up of the original. This example will be on display at an event in London this weekend, and while specific production plans haven't been announced, curious parties are encouraged to contact Jaguar and register their enthusiasm.

1986 Gemballa Avalanche

Sometimes a 911 Turbo just isn't enough. An excessive car in its factory guise, for some well-heeled customers during the Decade of Excess, one of the fastest cars you could buy wasn't fast enough. German customizer Gemballa stepped in to fill this ultra-premium niche, taking stock 911 Turbos and embellishing them with wild aero kits and interiors packed with the latest technological offerings. The top of the line was the Avalanche, which started at $700,000 — in 1985. In addition to the exterior and interior, Gemballa shipped each Avalanche over to RUF for mechanical tweaks that brought the car to over 375 hp. For a substantial discount from the original asking price, someone will take home an icon of 80s supercars.

Barn Find 1969 Ferrari 365 GTB/4

Ferraris are raced, wrecked, customized, restored, and displayed, but they're never forgotten. Which makes this 1969 365 GTB/4 Daytona a contender for the Holy Grail of barn finds. A Daytona is highly sought after by default, but this might be the grand prize even among Daytonas: An aluminum-bodied coupe, the only one ever produced for road use. Its existence was only a rumor for decades until the car was finally located in a barn in Japan. Stashed away for almost 40 years, this Daytona is a landmark car and the certain centerpiece of any collection.

1964 Shelby AC 289 Cobra

The vicious 427 big-block Cobras get all the attention, with their sledgehammer acceleration, white-knuckle oversteer, flared fenders, and racing stripes. But a true driving purist accepts nothing less than the 289 small-block Cobra: The lighter motor up front makes the most of the British AC chassis, and all but the most masochistic won't miss breaking the tires loose and potentially destroying millions of dollars at the slightest nudge of the accelerator. This nearly flawless 1964 289 Cobra is a drivers car through and through. A fully documented history with over 27,000 miles means this a relatively affordable Cobra — that you can actually drive.

1959 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Series III

Enzo Ferrari's philosophy for his Superamerica models was a departure from his other race-bred road cars. A combination of high-performance, opulent luxury, excellent comfort, and a clientele of business moguls, athletes, and famous entertainers willing to pay the fee for one of the world's most illustrious constructors made the Superamerica Ferrari's halo car. This 1959 410 Superamerica Series III is one of only 12 constructed and boasts an ownership history of some of Ferrari's best customers. Each Superamerica was custom ordered, with no two exactly alike, making them some of the most valuable Ferraris made.

1974 De Tomaso Pantera L

A marriage of American motors and Italian chassis was consummated in 1971 with the De Tomaso Pantera. A mid-engined sports car with a Ford 351 cubic-inch V8 and Italian coachwork penned by Ghia, the Pantera is a beautiful — and obtainable — Italian sports car. This 1974 Pantera L is the last one ever imported into the US. Specifically optioned by original owner Floyd Moore, the car is signed and has a plaque noting its unique status. Along with being in incredibly original condition, the car has an exhaustively documented history, making it a prized piece of Italian-American history.

1940 BMW 328 Roadster

From 1936 introduction to the end of production in 1940, BMW dominated motor racing in Europe with the 328. One of the best sports cars of the era, this 1940 328 features the lightweight aluminum body by Touring of Milan, the first example of "Superleggera" construction — the body being stretched over a tube frame adding rigidity and saving weight. Adding to the intrigue, the body, chassis, and motor were all separated from each other — the body being on a completely different car at one point — before being brought together for restoration by Chicago guru Fran Roxas.

1965 Ford GT40 Roadster

If the only thing holding you back from buying an original Ford GT40 is the lack of an open-air option, you're in luck. The first of six prototype GT40s made with an open roof — the other five were converted into hardtops after assembly — this is the last one in the world in its original configuration. And if that weren't enough, this GT40 has some serious provenance, being the only GT40 ever driven by Formula One legend Jim Clark. A truly once-in-a-lifetime chance to own one of the rarest pieces of automotive history.

1952 Ferrari 342 America

Since 1950, the "America" designation has been used for Ferrari's large, front-engined grand touring cars. Powerful V12 engines and custom coachwork defined the models, leading to some very rare one-offs during a production run. Only six 1952 342 Americas were produced, and this is the only one bodied by Vignale and one of only two cabriolets. Powered by the 200 hp Lampredi V12 developed for Ferrari's Formula One cars, this was a rocket in its day. A recent restoration with metallic green and white two-tone exterior and matching interior give the car a striking appearance, along with the fact that this could very well be a once-in-lifetime opportunity to own such a rare Ferrari.

1967 Porsche 911 R Prototype

At first, it seems hard to determine which version of Porsche's legendary sports car would be the most desirable. Over 50 years of development and countless racing victories, there are quite a few 911s that stand out — but nothing like this. This is the car gave birth to the 911's status as one of the best sports cars in the world, on or off the track. The fourth of four prototypes built before a production run of 20, this 1967 Porsche 911 R is in amazing condition, having only a light restoration in its 50-year history.

1985 Mazda RX-7 Evo Group B Works

For five years in the 1980s, the FIA's Group B rally spec produced some of the most powerful and sophisticated cars the series had ever seen. With entries like Audi's Quattro S1 putting out over 600 hp, rally racing hasn't seen anything like Group B since its demise in 1987. This Mazda RX-7 Group B car was assembled by the factory Mazda team but has never seen dirt due having been completed after Group B was disbanded. Based on the twin-rotor, second generation RX-7, this RX-7 Evo was one of seven made and believed to be the only one in existence today.

1954 Pegaso Z-102 Berlinetta Series II

Between 1951 and 1958, 84 Spanish sports cars were built in the former factory of another Spanish legend — Hispano-Suiza. Called Pegaso after the mythical winged horse, these cars have attained a status nearly as legendary. Conceived as a direct competitor to Ferrari, the Pegaso was at one time the fastest production car in the world with a top speed of 150 MPH. Each Pegaso has unique coachwork specific to every chassis, and this example is the most desirable body design by Saoutchik of Paris. Restored to a Concours-winning level, this Pegaso placed 2nd at Pebble Beach.

1961 Triumph TR4

You can find the strangest things in Kentucky barns — like this classic '61 Triumph TR4. British and roadster are like hand in glove. The island nation has a reputation for solid handling cars, and the TR4 is no exception. Current owner Tom Hale pulled the car out of the aforementioned tobacco barn and had it fully restored by Danny Morton of the Sterling British Motoring Society. After 40 years of slowly rotting away, Danny and Tom have brought the car back to its former glory.

Photos: Jake Salyers

1937 Yellowstone Park Tour Bus

Sports cars get all the attention. With their sleek shapes, powerful motors, and handling prowess, the other four-wheeled denizens of the vintage automotive world often get overlooked. Vehicles made to work rarely get any praise. Even though it isn't going to get any accolades for performance or racing pedigree, this 1937 Yellowstone Park tour bus is hard to miss. Huge, yellow, and able to haul all your friends and extended family to destinations unknown, it's slightly more practical than your usual upscale car auction fodder — and has a history of showing people the grandeur of Yellowstone that's as important as any automobile.

1976 Lamborghini Countach LP 400 Periscopio

When it debuted in 1974, the Lamborghini Countach looked like something from outer space. The wedge-shaped body with iconic NACA ducts, scissor-hinged doors, and low profile was unlike anything seen before — and over 40 years later, it still makes an impact. This Tahiti Blue 1976 Countach is one of the original production run of just under 160 cars. Before the massive wings and fender flares of the later models, the LP400 is the Countach in its most pure and desirable form. Delivered to its first owner in Toronto, the car has remained in Canadian hands ever since and still has the original motor along with a high-quality restoration in the factory-ordered color. As wild as the Countach became in the 80s, this example of the car in its first iteration is even more striking.

1966 Amphicar 770

The result of over a decade of development, the Amphicar debuted in 1961 as the first fully amphibious vehicle sold to the public. Transitioning from land to water was a breeze, with just a few simple steps and a pull of a lever — which moves the engine's power from the wheels to dual rear propellers — necessary. This 1966 Amphicar 770 has recently undergone a full restoration with an eye on authenticity and saw its top and interior replaced, and its body painted the factory color of Lagoon Blue. Accompanied by extensive documentation, it would make a highly entertaining and unusual addition to any collection.

1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing

It was the supercar of its day. A road-going version of the legendary Mercedes 300 SL race car, it was the brainchild of American Mercedes importer Max Hoffman. Max's idea of a race car for the street was an overnight success, and he sold over 1,000 of the 1,400 cars made from 1954 to 1957. A powerful 240 hp inline-six, independent suspension, 166 MPH top speed, timeless bodywork, and the famous gullwing doors all made the 300 SL an instant classic. This sought-after late production example is presented it's original black-on-red color scheme, and has never left its home state of Pennsylvania since new.

1952 Alfa Romeo 1900 M AR 51 Matta

Get all those images of sleek red coupes, sedans, and roadsters out of your head — this an Alfa Romeo like you've never seen. Aside from the obvious lack of rosso, this 1952 1900 M AR 51 was built for the opposite purpose of Alfa's road cars. Designed as the Jeep equivalent for the Italian army, the truck performed admirably for two decades before the fleet was phased out in the 70s. It performed so well that it earned the nickname "matta", a variation on the Italian word for crazy, to describe its off-road capabilities. The 1900 M AR 51 isn't just a very unusual Alfa Romeo, it's a rare piece of Italian military history not often seen in the United States.

1965 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 Shooting Brake

When you think of Ferrari, you think of sleek red automobiles and purebred racing machines — not station wagons. But if Scuderia were ever going to make something slightly more practical, this would be it. While not an official Ferrari model, the decidedly 60s-futuristic coachwork was commissioned by Ferrari importer Luigi Chinetti Jr., styled by American illustrator Bob Peak, and crafted by Italian firm Vignale. Built on a 1965 330 GT 2+2, the car debuted at the 1968 Torino Motor Show and is believed to be the last Ferrari styled by Vignale. Not only is it extremely unique, it's also one of the few Ferraris that can transport four people and their luggage at speed and in comfort.

Photos: Dom Romney / Gooding & Co.

1950 Ferrari 166 MM/212

In 1950, Enzo Ferrari's fledgling company had been in existence for only three years. Four wealthy brothers — Vittorio, Giannino, Paolo, and Umberto Marzotto owned some 20 or more Ferraris between them, lending a large hand in keeping the company stable through those early years. Accomplished drivers in their own right, Giannino won the legendary Mille Miglia twice. After a crash put the car out of commission, it was rebuilt with the bodywork seen here. Known as the "Uovo", or egg, the result of an attempt at weight reduction and aerodynamic streamlining. A one-off example of early Ferraris, the 166 MM/212 is an important car in Ferrari's racing heritage.

1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C

Back when human hands had a bigger role in manufacturing, two things tended to happen: Processes, materials, and methods could change on the fly, often as things were being built, and no two objects were the same. The Ferrari 275 GTB is a perfect example, and this 1965 GTB/6C is the perfect GTB. A propensity to lift the front end at speed caused a change on the production line to a longer nose. Another change was the driveshaft joint for ease of maintenance. This car has both, along with a lightweight alloy body and six carburetors, making it the rarest of the rare. A meticulously maintained ownership and maintenance history, as well as the above-mentioned production refinements, make this one of the best classics to wear the Prancing Horse.

1925 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix

Provenance. It means so much in the vintage car world, even if that car is a ultra-desirable Bugatti. Elizabeth Junek was one of the greatest female drivers in Grand Prix history and four Bugatti Type 35Cs were delivered to her from the factory in 1925 — with the same serial number, presumably for tax purposes. The Type 35C was one of the most successful race cars ever, winning over 1,000 races and at one point averaging 14 wins a week. With a supercharged straight-eight putting out 128 hp and innovations like alloy wheels, the Type 35 was a testament to Ettore Bugatti's belief in the art of engineering.

Porsche 911 Safari

One of only three copies built by Eric Brandenburg, who piloted his own in the 2007 Transsyberia Rally, this Porsche 911 Safari is a true rarity. It started life as a 1978 SC but has since been transformed into a capable off-road machine. Modifications include a beefed up suspension with Bilstein B6 Sport dampers, mudder tires mounted on 16-inch rims, stainless steel skid plates to protect the undercarriage, and a winch hidden in the custom front bumper. It develops nearly 230 hp from its 3.2L flat-six engine, plenty enough to make the monochrome Martini Racing livery a little blurry as you go sliding past.

Ferrari Performance Collection

Spanning 50 years and a wide range of price points, the Ferrari Performance Collection is a selection of 13 of Maranello's most notable releases, all headed for auction in Monterey. The set is headlined by a concours-level silver 1961 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, expected to fetch over $8.5 million. On the opposite end of the spectrum is a 1989 328 GTS, with an expected closing range of $90-$120K. All of the cars were the property of a single, caring owner, have relatively low mileage, and are being offered almost entirely without reserve.

Photos: Theodore W. Pieper / RM Sotheby’s

1978 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

In 1977, Aston Martin released the first British supercar. The V8 Vantage was capable of a top speed of 170 MPH, and ran 0-60 in 5.3 seconds — a tenth of a second faster than the Ferrari Daytona, Aston's main competitor. The hand-assembled V8 Vantage would receive constant upgrades and remain a flagship model in the Aston lineup — and James Bond's garage — until 1989. This 1978 V8 Vantage was destined for Canada, being delivered to a customer in British Columbia, and eventually ended up in the hands of Vantage collector Kean Rogers. A 2005 engine rebuild punched the motor out from 5.4 to 6.0 liters, giving it 500 hp and 500 ft-lbs of torque, all with European-spec parts and work by Aston Engineering. This V8 Vantage will be on the auction block August 18-19, 2017 at the Sotheby's Monterey event.

1967 Ferrari 330 GTC

In 1966, Enzo Ferrari produced a car that was something of a departure from his company's previous works — a refined car that could be driven on the street. The change of emphasis from track-bred performance to refined road manners was reflected in the Ferrari 330 GTC options list: power windows and air conditioning. This black-on-red example, one of 593 built, has both, making an already-rare car even more desirable. Powered by a 4.0-liter V12 with independent suspension and disc brakes, the 330 was, like all Ferraris, made to be driven — and the 26,000 miles on the odometer show that it's been more than a trailer queen for its 51 years.

1989 Porsche 911 Turbo

Hundreds of thousands of pages have been written on the 911 Turbo. The propensity of lift-throttle oversteer, Spartan amenities, quirks like floor-hinged pedals — it's this combination of features and Porsche's commitment to the platform that have made the 911 a legend. So let's take a moment to skip over styling, engines, and handling to praise something often overlooked — the G50 5-speed transmission. This 1989 911 Turbo is immaculate and heavily optioned, with power windows, seats, air conditioning, and sunroof delete. But there, right between the beige leather seats, is the G50. Extremely accurate with a wonderfully short throw, the joy of heel-and-toeing will have you facing the wrong way on your favorite canyon road in short order.