A unique and historic Chevrolet test car will be amongst the most remarkable lots in Arizona this month, as Barrett-Jackson hosts its 46th Annual Scottsdale Auction.
The Chevrolet Engineering Research Vehicle (CERV) 1 was developed by Zora Arkus-Duntov, the engineer known as the ‘Father of the Corvette’, between 1959 and 1960.
Designed by Larry Shinoda and Tony Lapine, the vehicle was a functional mid-engine, open-wheel, single-seat prototype racing car which served as Duntov’s personal test-bed for what became the iconic Chevrolet Corvette in the 1960s.
The (CERV) 1 was equipped with a 283ci/350hp small-block V8 engine, a four-wheel independent suspension, 4-speed manual transmission, an advanced Rochester fuel-injection system and front disc and rear drum brakes.
The vehicle has been described as "one of the most important pieces of American automotive history", and comes with a full archive of paperwork documenting its development.
The car is expected to exceed the price achieved in 2013 by the (CERV) II – a second experimental car developed by Duntov in 1963 – which sold at RM Auctions in New York for $1.1 million.
The auction will also include 140 cars from the renowned Charlie Thomas Collection, all offered with no reserve. The eclectic mix of pre-war classics, muscle cars, exotics and high-performance vehicles will be led by a Mopar Gold National Show winning 1970 Plymouth Superbird.
And for collectors seeking the rock and roll lifestyle, there’s a highly rare Hennessey Venom GT Spyder consigned from the personal collection of Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler to raise money for the Janie’s Fund charity.
"Our Scottsdale Auction is the best event to get the full effect of what we call the ‘Barrett-Jackson Experience’," said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson.
"From the excitement of seeing first-time buyers bid on a vehicle, to the thunderous applause that comes from a million-dollar bid for charity, Scottsdale is the premier auction where you can truly indulge in the automotive lifestyle."
The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale sale takes place at WestWorld of Scottsdale on January 14-22.
