A remarkable collection of classic cars, abandoned and decaying for decades in Los Angeles, will be auctioned off by RM Sotheby’s this October. If you think these vintage vehicles are nothing special, the names we’re about to list from this newly discovered collection will surely surprise you.
The collection features automobiles from various prestigious brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini, and Porsche, among others, amassed by entrepreneur Rudi Klein before his passing in 2001. Klein, a German immigrant to the US, made his fortune in the meat-selling business before turning to dealing in classic European cars and establishing Porsche Foreign Auto in 1967.
During his lifetime, Klein acquired and hoarded these vehicles in a secretive manner, storing them in his Los Angeles lot away from prying eyes.
Even after Klein’s death, his sons kept the collection hidden from the public eye until they finally agreed to part with it through an online auction this October. All the vehicles will be sold in their ‘as-is’ condition, meaning none of them have been restored, and many may require special care, with some chassis possibly deteriorated over time.
If you’re curious about the highlights of this collection, one of the most valuable cars is the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing. This supercar is one of only 29 ‘Alloy’ Gullwings ever produced and was originally delivered in black before being repainted silver. Previously owned by Ferrari racer Luigi Chinetti, this car presents a perfect foundation for a comprehensive restoration and is estimated to be worth several million dollars.
Another highly regarded member of the collection is the 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500 K ‘Caracciola’ Special Coupe from Sindelfingen. This vehicle was once owned by Mercedes-Benz racing driver Rudolf Caracciola and is a one-of-a-kind creation.
Klein’s collection also includes a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, a 1939 Horch 855 Special Roadster, a 1967 Iso Grifo A3/L Spider Prototype by Bertone, and a 1961 Porsche 356 B 1600 ‘Twin-Grille’ Roadster by d’leteren.