A Journey from Butcher to Automotive Legend

The story of Rudi Klein, who amassed one of the most impressive collections of vintage cars and parts, is as compelling as the vehicles themselves. Born in Germany, Klein emigrated to the U.S. during the 1950s, initially carving out a living as a butcher. However, his passion for cars drove him to abandon the meat industry in the mid-1960s, leading him to open a scrapyard in southern Los Angeles. Here, his keen eye for quality led to a treasure trove of automotive parts and vehicles, encompassing some of the most coveted brands, including Porsche, Ferrari, and Aston Martin.

After Klein’s death in 2001, the mystery surrounding his collection simmered, with his family reluctant to divulge its breadth. However, RM Sotheby’s has finally brought this mythical estate to the fore, splitting it into 567 lots that are now set to attract discerning bidders.

Diving into the Auction: A Collector's Paradise

Scheduled for Saturday, October 26th, the auction features an impressive lineup of 208 live auction lots and an additional 359 available online. Among the highlights are five rare Mercedes-Benz 600s, including the illustrious Pullman variant, as well as a staggering collection of 37 Porsche 356s. While many vehicles are in various states of disrepair, they present extraordinary opportunities for restoration, customization, or simply as artistic statements in their current conditions.

In addition to whole cars, the auction boasts an extensive inventory of parts and memorabilia. Bidder may find everything from steering wheels and tyres to complete sets of rare manuals and original tools. Notable highlights include a thought-to-be-lost Mercedes-Benz 300SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing, expected to fetch between USD 4,000,000 and USD 6,000,000, thanks to its rarity and historical significance.

Further, there’s a rare Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Coupe tailored for the legendary driver Rudolf Carraciola, commanding the same impressive estimate. But not every lot demands a millionaire’s budget; options such as vintage Lamborghini Miuras and even a Ferrari GTC shell offer fascinating entries for less affluent collectors.

Spotlight on Unique Finds: The NSU Ro80 2Porte +2

Amidst the auction's plethora of offerings, the NSU Ro80 2Porte +2 stands out not just for its rarity, but for its unique design and engineering. Originating in 1971 and meticulously crafted by Pininfarina, this car showcases a whimsical blend of sharp lines and vintage charm. Fitted with a revolutionary Wankel rotary engine, it delivered a distinctive driving experience during its time, setting the stage for innovation in automotive engineering.

With an estimated auction price between USD 60,000 and USD 80,000, the NSU Ro80 is a piece of automotive history that merges aesthetic appeal with mechanical ingenuity. Its design might resonate differently with various enthusiasts, but its story captivates the imagination of all who appreciate the evolution of automotive artistry.

Every Lot Tells a Story

Whether salvaging parts from once-great vehicles or bidding on a nearly fully intact classic, participants in the Rudi Klein Junkyard Auction stand on the brink of discovering unparalleled automotive history. Each lot has the potential to be more than just a project or investment; it holds a narrative waiting to be relived.

As the auction day approaches, even the most unexpected items can ignite the passion of collectors and historians alike. This unique event promises not just the thrill of acquisition but an experience rich in stories of resilience, transformation, and art born from the remnants of the past. Will you be one of the lucky bidders to reclaim a piece of automotive history?