If three words could explain Saturday at the Barrett-Jackson 2025 Scottsdale Fall Auction, it would be Ford, Chevrolet, and Germans. A bit of irony rings in the air as two of the “Low-Priced Three” outshone two exotic Teutons, but we don’t make the rules, folks—it’s simply supply and demand.
And what did bidding enthusiasts demand? American sports cars, American SUVs, American muscle, and a pair of German sports cars—all glorious vehicles in their own respective right. However, Saturday’s Top 10 should be no surprise to Barrett-Jackson veterans.
We know you’re curious about the details on the Top 10, so enjoy the below list for your perusal. Click on the vehicle lot number to see the description and images.
Now that the Barrett-Jackson 2025 Scottsdale Fall Auction is one for the books, you can patiently enjoy a respite because Barrett-Jackson will return to Scottsdale on Jan 17-25, 2026 for an even bigger, grander event!
“Old-school” Japanese cars took over Marina Green Park in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, October 11. The occasion marked the 20th anniversary of the Japanese Classic Car Show (JCCS) – a signature event that has become a highlight of the classic-car scene in California and beyond. Organizers remarked, “Back in 2005, Japanese cars weren’t even widely seen as classics. Now, thanks to a passionate community of fans, builders, and collectors, we’re proudly celebrating the craftsmanship, culture, and legacy that continue to thrive in the U.S. and beyond.”
There were a few specific themes on display this year:
Datsun BRE 240Z – Referring to the Datsun 240Z cars prepared by Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE) for SCCA racing in the 1970s. Founder Peter Brock and racing hero John Morton were on-site for a live reunion at the Nissan booth.
Toyota Celica – An iconic fastback that helped define early Toyota performance.
Mazda RX7 – One of the most important cars in showing the world what rotary-powered performance was all about.
Honda Z600 – A car “small in size, but gigantic in soul.” It was one of the vehicles that paved the way for Honda’s success in the United States.
Merchandise is always a highlight of the show. With that in mind, BRE and JCCS released some exclusive diecast cars. And special guests this year included world-renowned automotive photographer Larry Chen, as well as the host of “Diecast Talk,” John Lambert.
Here were just a few of the stand-out vehicles that were on display, in order by model year.
1974 Honda Civic “RS” Restomod
This eye-catching first-generation Civic was reimagined as a modern-day interpretation of Honda’s early compact. Mike from Utah has been working on the car for nearly two years, and being able to showcase it at JCCS was a huge goal. His efforts paid off: The car received a first-place award as “Best Civic” as well as a plaque for “Best of JCCS Open Modified Class.”
1980 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40
JCCS isn’t just for cars – the event is also open to trucks, vans, and sport-utility vehicles that fit the age demographic. This olive green 4×4 Toyota was equipped with a “2H” 4.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. The FJ has long been praised for its go-anywhere capability and rugged chassis.
1985 Toyota Celica GT-S
The forerunner to later Supra models, this wedge-shaped “A70” generation Toyota has been a popular vehicle in the collector marketplace. It was powered by the legendary 2.4-liter “22R-E” engine. This white example at JCCS was among a limited production group of rare convertibles. American Sunroof Company (ASC) performed the conversions.
1992 Mazda Miata
Only about 1,500 Sunburst Yellow “NA” Miatas were produced, making them rare today. It was fitting to see this car on display at JCCS, especially as a tribute to its original designer, Tom Matano, who recently passed away. Mazda’s lightweight convertible two-seater will forever have a place in the collector community.
1992 Nissan Maxima SE
This Maxima, owned by Mark from Portland, has been the product of a light – but very detail-oriented – restoration and made the nearly-1,000-mile trip to Long Beach. Mark said, “It was the first long trip I’ve taken in it, and it did great.” The Maxima was Nissan’s famous “4DSC” (four-door sports car) designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience with sedan space and comfort.
1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution
This right-hand-drive SUV’s origins date back to its development for the Dakar Rally. It came with a 3.5-liter V6 and became known for its capable “Super Select 4WD” four-wheel drive system. Only about 2,500 total units were produced between 1997 and 1999, making the Pajero a sought-after collectible today.
As the JCCS website said, “More than just cars – they’re milestones, memories, and moving history. Through every challenge, this community endures.” With that in mind, we look forward to seeing the evolution of JCCS for many years to come!
Currently for sale onAutoHunter is this 1974 Lotus Europa Special. The Special was the later, big-valve and big-brake car that stands out among the Europas built between 1967-75. It is powered by a DOHC Lotus-Ford 1.6-liter inline-four backed by a five-speed manual transaxle. Features include power steering, windows, locks, and front disc brakes, alloy wheels, and more. Painted red with a brown vinyl and velour interior, this mid-engined sports car comes from the selling dealer with parts invoices, ROs, wiring schematics, instruction manuals, spare parts, and a clear title.
The exterior is painted in a bronze-like red. Exterior features include bonnet vents, chrome driver-side mirror, wide rocker panels, and single exhaust outlet. A set of 13-inch OEM alloy wheels are wrapped in 180/70 Pirelli CN36 radials.
The brown interior features vinyl and velour bucket seats, and a center console with a manual shifter. Other interior features include power accessories including windows, locks, and steering, heater, and “radio-delete” plate.
Instrumentation includes a 140-mph speedometer, 8,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for the oil pressure, temperature, amperage, and fuel. The odometer shows 44,157 miles, which the seller claims to be accurate.
The Lotus-engineered Ford 1.6-liter I4 features DOHC with dual carburetors to make 113 horsepower, though the addition of headers help it make more. It is paired with a five-speed transaxle. There’s been several recent servicing including new clutch and flywheel, repaired carbs, and new electric pump.
The undercarriage features a four-wheel independent suspension with adjustable rear control arms. Brakes are power-assisted with discs up front. A single exhaust system routs expended gasses to the right-hand rear.
Colin Chapman was famous for taking the road less travelled to drive the road with the most hairpin turns. The Europa exemplified his evolving vision. This unusual 1974 Lotus Europa Special that is featured as our AutoHunter Spotlight has a power/weight ratio that can outshine “heavy” machinery. If trading torque for smart engineering sounds like an opportunity to suit your enthusiast whims, then place your bid now because the auction for this unusual mid-engined Brit ends on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 11:15 a.m. (PDT).
Imagine time-traveling to 1996 and being able to drive a brand-new SVT Cobra off the showroom floor. This is about as close as you can get to that experience. The Pick of the Day is a low-mileage 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Fort Myers, Florida.
“Perfect condition throughout!” the listing says. “None nicer!” The car was reportedly stored in a climate-controlled environment its entire life, and it shows – even the undercarriage is spotless. Clearly this Mustang was collector-owned, and at this point it’s likely the vehicle will continue live the remainder of its life as a showpiece. After all, there can’t be many SVT Cobras out there with fewer than 3,000 miles on the odometer. The car shows just 2,538 total miles driven, and factory originality remains intact with exception of the tires, which were replaced due to age.
According to the included window sticker, this Crystal White Mustang was originally delivered to Park Cities Ford in Dallas. It carried a retail price of $26,645, which included the Preferred Equipment Package 250A: compact disc player, Mach 460 AM/FM stereo, anti-theft system, and leather seats. The car was relatively well-appointed with standard features for its time, offering a remote keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning, dual power mirrors, interval wipers, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Included with the vehicle is a certificate from SVT stating the car is number 1,595 out of 7,496 vehicles of its type. Assembly took place in Dearborn, Michigan, on November 2, 1995, which means the car is officially coming up on exactly 30 years old.
The Mustang’s fourth generation, which went under the codename “SN95” internally, saw production for model years 1994 through 2004. The SVT Cobra was a high-performance variant built by Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (thus SVT) and it ranked as the top-of-the-line model. A magazine ad for the Cobra said, “Never say whoa.” Ford encouraged drivers to push the performance limits of the car. With that in mind, acceleration came from a 32-valve “Modular” 4.6-liter DOHC V8 rated at 305 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission and a “Traction-Lok” limited-slip axle sent power to the rear wheels.
Ready to get behind the wheel of a “new” three-decade-old Mustang? Look no further. The seller says the car “drives absolutely perfect,” and the asking price is $29,900.
This Ford Model A hot rod is powered by a 283ci Chevrolet V8 paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. The truck features a fiberglass body and a steel bed finished in black over a gray cloth interior. Equipment includes a Deuce front grille, a 12-volt electrical system, red 15” steel wheels, front disc brakes, a selectable exhaust system, and a beer keg fuel tank. The seller acquired the vehicle in 2023, and subsequent work included replacing the engine mounts, transmission mounts, spark plugs, and front coilover shocks. This Model A is offered with service records, spare parts, and a clean California title in the seller’s name describing it as a 1930 Ford. The vehicle is registered as Planned Non-Operation in California.
The bodywork is comprised of a fiberglass bucket, a steel bed, and a Deuce front grille. All of which are finished in satin black. The frame is finished to match. Exterior details include beer bottle-style taillights and a beer keg that has been repurposed as a fuel tank and mounted in the bed.
The red-finished 15” steel wheels are mounted with Mastercraft tires measuring 185/65 up front and 235/75 out back. The suspension is equipped with front coilover shocks that were installed in May 2023. Braking is handled by front discs and rear drums.
The cabin features a bench seat trimmed in gray cloth. Appointments include lap belts, a horn, and a Boss Bluetooth audio system.
The Grant GT steering wheel sits ahead of a Stewart Warner speedometer, a tachometer, and gauges for battery charge, vacuum pressure, and oil pressure. The five-digit odometer shows 23k miles, approximately 500 of which were added under current ownership.
The 283ci Chevrolet V8 is equipped with a 12-volt electrical system. A selectable exhaust system is fitted, which allows for the use of either removable straight side pipes or a muffled full exhaust. Service performed in May 2023 included replacing the spark plugs, engine and transmission mounts, and drive belt as well as installing fuel filters, an air cleaner, and a bell housing dust cover. The seller states the vehicle is hard to start and that the carburetor requires a rebuild.
The car is titled by the frame stamping A2961663.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission.
This custom open-cockpit speedster was built by the seller over the last six years, and it is powered by a 527ci American LaFrance V12 linked to a four-speed manual transmission and dual chain drive. Dubbed “The Beast of the Valley”, the car rides on a steel frame that was fabricated by the seller along with the fuel tank and bomber-style seats. The engine was partially rebuilt prior to installation, and equipment includes dual Stromberg carburetors, 20” wire wheels, a leaf-spring suspension, and hydraulic drum brakes. This custom speedster is now offered with extra parts and a Minnesota title in the name of the seller’s business listing it as a 1938 ALAF.
Inspired by Edwardian-era race cars such as the Ford 999, Darracq 200hp, and 1905 Premier, this car was built by the seller to utilize the American LaFrance engine and transmission, which had been acquired independently. The frame was constructed using 2×6” steel tubing and incorporates a 1928 Plymouth front axle, a modified I-beam rear axle from an International, and custom semi-elliptical leaf springs. The radiator is said to be sourced from a 1917 American LaFrance and has a brass outer shell, while the fuel tank was fabricated by the seller and has internal baffles.
The 20” wire wheels are wrapped in 6.00” Lucas tires. Braking is handled by hydraulic drums all around.
The bomber-style steel seats have bead-rolled detailing, and wood floorboards are provided for both occupants.
The steering wheel has a wood rim, and the speedometer and tachometer are not connected. The five-digit odometer shows 17k miles. The seller estimates that the car has been driven 30 miles since the build was completed.
The 527ci American LaFrance V12 is said to be sourced from a 1938 model and features dual-spark ignition and a cast-iron intake manifold for each bank fed by a Stromberg downdraft carburetor. One piston was replaced along with the cylinder head and subhead gaskets prior to installation. The seller notes a leak at the water pump.
The four-speed manual transmission with a low-ratio crawler gear sends power to the rear wheels through a rear end sourced from a 1928 Plymouth, custom-fabricated drive axles, and chain-driven hubs. A leak at the pinion seal is noted, and corrosion is visible on underbody components.
The car is titled as a 1938 ALAF Custom using the Assigned VIN DPSMN177161. The title carries a “Reconstructed” notation.
Extra axles, drive sprockets, and other parts will accompany the car along with a pair of disassembled headlights. Photos showing the car with the headlights installed are presented in the gallery.
Volkswagen’s global presence has led to a diverse lineup of vehicles tailored to various markets, influenced by regional regulations, consumer preferences, and automotive trends. While the iconic Beetle and Golf have been staples in the U.S., many models have remained exclusive to Europe, Asia, and other regions, offering unique features and designs that set them apart from their American counterparts. This article explores ten such Volkswagens that were notably cooler overseas than in the U.S.
Honda has a remarkable ability to conceal exhilarating performance within unassuming designs. This blend of subtle aesthetics and dynamic engineering has led to the creation of models that, at first glance, appear ordinary but deliver an unexpectedly thrilling driving experience. Enthusiasts have long appreciated these “sleepers,” vehicles that defy expectations and showcase Honda’s commitment to performance across its lineup. (motor-junkie.com)
It’s natural to try to find patterns in things. Patterns make them easier to understand. Sometimes it can be difficult, like when you look at the all the scattered pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. When it comes to the Top 10 Friday sales at the Barrett-Jackson 2025 Scottsdale Fall Auction, it’s easy: All of them were American vehicles.
The majority of those vehicles were made by Chevrolet, including the 1955 Nomad that took the top spot on the list with a hammer price of $183,7000 and the 2022 Camaro charity car that raised $150,000 for the American Cancer Society. There was less of a pattern to the body styles, which ranged from wagons and convertibles to pony cars and an SUV.
If you want to see which vehicles take the Top 10 spots on Saturday at the Barrett-Jackson 2025 Scottsdale Fall Auction, you still have time to get tickets (just click here) and register to bid (by clicking here). Can’t make it out? Watch the auction live by following this link.
Honda has long been celebrated for its commitment to reliability and fuel efficiency, earning a reputation as a manufacturer of practical and economical vehicles. However, beneath this image lies a history of models that, while not always in the spotlight, have delivered impressive performance. Over the years, Honda has occasionally unveiled special trims that pack unexpected power and agility, offering driving enthusiasts a delightful surprise. These spirited models, though often overshadowed by their more mainstream counterparts, have left a lasting impression on those who sought them out. In this article, we delve into ten such forgotten Honda trims that were secret performance gems, waiting to be rediscovered by a new generation of driving aficionados.
