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.

1964 AC Cobra 289

When Carroll Shelby won the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans, he got a good look at the class-winning AC Ace, a small British roadster powered by a 2-liter four-cylinder motor. Like any good American, Shelby knew the little car would be perfect with twice as much motor — and thus was born the legendary Shelby Cobra. Only produced for five years, the Cobra would gain a reputation on the track that would last decades and spawn a following that few cars can match. While the Cobra 427 S/C gets all the attention, it's the Ford 289 V8-powered Cobra that is enthusiast's choice. This 1964 MkII Cobra was delivered new to Ray Hunt Ford in Florida and has had several owners over the last five decades. It now boasts a restoration by renowned Cobra expert Mike McCluskey, and is FIA-approved to do what Cobras do best — dominate the racetrack.

1970 Porsche 917K Le Mans

Few makes have been as successful in endurance racing than Porsche, and the car that gave them their reputation was the 917. A legendary car with looks as good as its record on the track, the 917 dominated prototype racing in the early- to mid-70s and would directly spawn successors that would continue crush the competition until the late 80s. This 917 in the famous Gulf livery was the ultimate barn find. Discovered in a warehouse in Paris, the car has an incredible provenance. The car set qualifying records at Le Mans and was sold to Swiss driver Jo Siffert, and starred in the Steve McQueen film Le Mans before coming to rest in France. If you're interested in owning this machine, start saving — it's estimated to sell for more than $13 million at the 2017 Gooding Pebble Beach Auctions.

Photos: Mathieu Heurtault / Gooding & Co.

1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport Series I

In 1964, Mazda laid the groundwork for its future as a sports car manufacturer with the Cosmo Sport coupe. Its space-age styling and light weight was impressive, but it was what hid beneath the hood that would separate Mazda from its Japanese car competition. Powering the svelte two-seater was Mazda's first Wankel rotary engine and the world's first twin-rotor road car. Making 110 horsepower at a sky-high 7,000 RPM, the engine produced these numbers despite having a tiny displacement — 982 cc — that is still impressive today, let alone 53 years ago. A white exterior with black interior and houndstooth seat inserts finish off the period-correct restoration. With fewer than 400 made, this Cosmo Sport Series I is a rare and important piece of automotive history.

1963 Shelby 289 Cobra CXS 2075

The first Shelby Cobra delivered with the 289 cid engine and one of just 21 independent competition cars built, this 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra CXS 2075 is noteworthy for more than just its sleek black body. During its early years, it was run in various NHRA circuits, before returning to street use in 1971. While its engine, transmission, and differential have been rebuilt, it still retains its original body side curtains, top, and interior, and also carries the signature of its creator Carroll Shelby on the glove box. A fantastic, important example as ready for vintage events as it is for display.

Group B Rally Car Collection

Referred to by enthusiasts as the "Killer Bees," the cars that raced in FIA Group B are some of the fastest, most sophisticated rally cars ever built. This Group B Rally Car Collection is full of great examples, all of which are up for sale. Highlights include a 1975 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale with under 8,000 miles and a 1983 Lancia Rally 037 Stradale, the last rear-wheel drive car to win the WRC. There's also a 1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1 similar to the one that won the Pike's Peak hill climb, and a 1986 Ford RS200 Evolution that's one of only 24 ever built. All seven gems will be auctioned off at Bonhams' Quail Lodge Auction in Carmel, California on August 18.

1966 Lola T70 MK2 Spyder

In 1966, the Canadian-American Challenge Cup launched as one of the premiere racing series in North America. The wide-open FIA Group 7 rules allowed for almost anything, leading to some of the most powerful cars in racing history. This 1966 Lola T70 was purchased by Goodyear to be driven by the legendary A.J. Foyt in the inaugural Can-Am campaign. In 1967, the car was sold to driver Bob Bondurant, who then rented the car out to Universal Studios for use in Winning, starring Paul Newman. Now recently restored back to its original glory, this classic racer is ready to compete, being eligible for a variety of vintage racing events.

Original 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing

In 1954, Mercedes introduced a race car for the street — the 300SL "Gullwing". Based on the W194 racer that won Le Mans, the idea was suggested to Mercedes by their New York importer, Max Hoffman. Which is where the story of this all-original, unrestored 300SL starts. Ordered by a publishing executive from Hoffman in 1955, the car was specified with British racing green paint over tan leather, making it a rarity among even among a production of just over 1,400. This Gullwing has remained in the same family since it was delivered, racking up just over 16,000 miles over 62 years, and wears a spectacular patina earned over its lifetime of being driven.

Photos: Brian Henniker / Gooding & Co.

1957 Porsche 356A Carrera Speedster GS/GT

The Porsche 356 Speedster was a harbinger of things to come for the German automaker. Rear-engined and with the shape that would be refined into the legendary 911, the 356 coupe cemented itself as a star on the track, dominating rallies and road races across Europe. This 1957 356A Carrera Speedster, however, is a step above a "regular" 356. Taking the Carrera name from a brutal Mexican road race, this example features a 1.5-liter motor pushing 110bhp, nearly twice as much as the base model, propelling it to 60 MPH in 11 seconds and on to a top speed of over 120 mph. An important piece of Porsche history, approximately 152 Carrera Speedsters were ever produced, and this example is one of only three built as a right-hand drive model.

Bill Harrah's 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona

Bill Harrah made his fortune building casinos that bear his name. But even the glitz of his casinos couldn't match his stable of exotic automobiles, with a particular emphasis on Ferraris. Mr. Harrah's 1971 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta was built by the factory with customizations not seen on the "regular" production Daytonas, and upon taking delivery of the car, Harrah had competition wheels and motor upgrades added. Part of the history of this car involves a salesman offering Mr. Harrah a faster way to get from Reno to Lake Tahoe — a Sikorsky helicopter. Unimpressed, Harrah said he'd take one if it could beat his Daytona. The helicopter lost, with the Ferrari reportedly averaging 146 MPH for the run. Presented in its original color scheme with its original engine, it's a pristine example with a storied past.

1957 BMW 507 Series I Roadster

For much of its early history, BMW wasn't known for making cars that could be accused of getting your pulse racing. Post-war financial difficulties meant the company churned out sedans and microcars like the Isetta to get back on its feet, which made the 507 roadster an outlier in the BMW lineup. This 1957 507 is about as rare as it gets — one of only 34 Series 1 507s produced, and with a fully documented history from new. Nearly original, the paint and a swap from the original front drums to disc brakes are the only changes in 60 years. A lovingly maintained driver, this car deserves an owner willing to keep putting miles and memories on this classic.

1963 Jaguar E-Type Le Mans Racer

Based on Jaguar's legendary D-Type race car, the E-Type took the automotive world by storm upon its introduction in 1961. With its classic lines, independent suspension, powerful inline-six motor, and disc brakes, the E-Type raised the bar for what was possible in a production vehicle. All this performance meant it had to be raced, and this 1963 Briggs Cunningham Lightweight E-Type proves the pedigree. Stripped of everything not necessary for the track, this E-Type thundered for 24 hours at Le Mans and the 500 miles of Road America and Bridgehampton, earning the title of "GTO killer" for going head-to-head with Enzo Ferrari's vaunted 250 GTO on the track.

1966 Shelby GT350-H Fastback

In 1966, Ford partnered with the Hertz rental car company to give travelers something a little more exciting than the usual American sedan — the Shelby GT350-H Fastback. But it wasn't people on vacations and business trips that rented them. Affectionately known as the "Rent-a-Racer," many of these GT350s ended up on the track at race weekends, coming back on Monday with bald tires and evidence of roll cages being welded in. With around 1,000 produced, the car is rare, even by Shelby Mustang standards, but this particular example is even more scarce with its Ivy Green paint instead of the typical black. It crosses the auction block at Barret-Jackson June 21-24.

Photos: Barrett-Jackson

1958 Works Lister Knobbly

You would be hard-pressed to find a richer and more successful tradition of motorsport than that of the United Kingdom. One of the lesser-known marques to come from the British Isles is Lister, who built several competitive cars in the 1950s powered by Jaguar engines. After several changes of ownership, Lister is getting back to their roots with the 1958 Works Lister Knobbly. An exact replica built from the original plans with modern manufacturing processes, the company brought manufacturing jigs and even former employees to produce the cars. Available as an FIA-approved, vintage spec race-ready car, it brings the glory days of Britsh racing to the modern age.

1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta

Enzo Ferrari hated the mid-engine layout. By 1968, mid-engine cars had become the de facto standard in racing, and a company named Lamborghini had introduced a mid-engine car that had lit up the automotive press. The natural response was to produce something that smashed Ferrari's previous benchmarks for performance: The 365 GTB/4. Popularly known as the Daytona after sweeping the podium at the 1967 Daytona endurance race, the 365 GTB/4 had, despite its traditional front-engine layout, a number of Ferrari firsts. It was the most expensive car to come out of Maranello, at just under $20,000, the most powerful and fastest road car they had yet built and sported aggressive styling that was radically different from anything else that had worn the Prancing Horse. Almost 50 years later, the 365 GTB/4 still posts numbers that would make it a high-performance car. This example has under 40,000 miles on the odometer, was recently refreshed, and is highly original, making it an ideal candidate for the collector who enjoys driving his cars as much as he does caring for them.

1953 Willys Station Wagon

The body says it's a '53. The engine says otherwise. Powered by a 6.1L Mopar SRT8 Hemi, this 1953 Willys Station Wagon is a show-ready hybrid of the old and the new. The 450hp powerplant sits on a 1959 Willys frame, augmented with a front clip from an S10, rear springs and sway bar from an Explorer, a six-speed manual borrowed from the Viper, and a Flowmaster exhaust. The interior has stock seat frames with a custom cover design, custom headliner, a custom center panel, and specially-fabricated throttle pedal and shifter, yet still looks appropriate for the period.

Timeless Kustoms 1969 Chevrolet Camaro

With a level of performance far beyond anything General Motors could dream of in 1969, this Timeless Kustoms 1969 Chevrolet Camaro has all the features to make it a modern track day star. A custom-made air intake feeds a twin-turbocharged 380ci LSX V8, putting 750 hp to the rear wheels through a 6-speed Tremec automatic transmission and 4-inch aluminum driveshaft. Corvette Z06 wheels and high-performance rubber keep the car on the track, and a custom fabricated underbody diffuser helps overcome the beautiful-but-brick-like aerodynamics of the 60s bodywork. A perfect stablemate to the owner's other Pro Tourer, his as-impressive 1966 Chevelle.

Untouched 1993 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR

If you want to race a Porsche, all you have to do is ask. The company has made factory-built, stripped-down race versions of their road-going cars available to consumers for decades, albeit at extra cost. A far cry from their ordinary street cars, these factory racers came devoid of creature comforts and loaded with race-ready features good enough for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. All of which helps make this particular 1993 911 Carrera RSR so unusual. With just over 6 miles on the odometer, it was hardly ever driven, much less raced. In addition to being ready for the track, this 911 was ordered with a double-take-inducing all-red interior, making a striking contrast with the Polar Silver Metallic exterior. Other highly-customized touches abound. And should you doubt the odometer, just take a look at the protective Cosmoline coating — still intact from the factory — and the plethora of paw prints from its time in storage.

1969 Range Rover Velar Prototype

Not many prototype cars become production models. Even fewer do so nearly five decades after they're first unveiled. Yet that's the case with this 1969 Range Rover Velar Prototype. Technically, it served as the predecessor to the original Range Rover Classic. But the moniker was mothballed for decades until being resurrected for the company's latest SUV. As you'd expect, there's not a lot in common between the modern incarnation and this one — except an uncompromising driving experience both on and off the road.

1958 Porsche 356 A 1600 Super Speedster

The Porsche 356 is an automotive icon. This particular 1958 Porsche 356 A 1600 Super Speedster is one of the most desirable examples we've seen. It's believed to be one of fewer than 200 "S" models built in 1957 and one of the last 800 ever built, period. Fully restored in 2003, it saw new silver paint replace the original ivory, and black leather supplant the aging brown interior. At the same time, it received some mild race preparation, most importantly seeing its original powerplant replaced with a tuned 1600 SC engine that produces 110 hp, and helps make the car even more pleasurable to drive.

David Brown Mini Remastered

Technically, it's not new. But the David Brown Mini Remastered might as well be. This updated take on the classic Mini starts with a used model, which gets trimmed, de-seamed, and soundproofed before being reassembled and given a mirror-like paint job in a by-hand process that takes four weeks. Its engine gets tuned and paired to a four-speed gearbox, and the interior is replaced completely, with lush leather seats, knurled aluminum knobs and switches, and a 7-inch, CarPlay-compatible infotainment system in place of the original. In total, each example takes over 1,000 hours to build. It's limited to two separate editions of 25 units each, one honoring cafe racer culture, and the other inspired by the racing history of the Monte Carlo Riviera.

Classic Car Graveyard

Set in the hills of British Columbia roughly 4.5 hours northeast of Vancouver, this Classic Car Graveyard is an auto enthusiast's dream. Over 340 cars, ranging in value from $500 to $35,000 each, are spread across the five acres. Also included are a renovated house, a 900-square-foot restoration shop, a 1,200-square-foot steel building, and enough beams and rafters to build another 8,000 square feet of indoor workspace. An ideal opportunity to leave ordinary life behind and become a full-time gearhead.