Schatzinsel auf Rädern: Die Versteigerung des legendären Rudi Klein Schrottplatzes mit seltenen Oldtimer-Juwelen

An extraordinary junkyard like no other is going up for auction

This is where Porsches, Lamborghini Miuras, extremely rare 300 SL Gullwings, and a Mercedes 500 K Coupé are decaying

It's not entirely unheard of for classic cars in questionable condition to be put up for bid, yet something of this magnitude may well be unprecedented. In October, RM Sotheby's will auction off what's known as the Rudi Klein Collection, one of the most remarkable (if not THE most remarkable) "junkyards" on earth.

The collection wasn't exactly a secret, yet very few have ever stepped foot into this spot in Los Angeles. Technically, it's a junkyard. Rudi Klein emigrated to the U.S. in the 1950s and established a salvage yard specifically for European cars. He did quite well for himself, ultimately amassing a significant pile of extraordinary car parts and, in addition, enough wealth to acquire several exceptionally fine vehicles.

Klein passed away in 2001. Since then, his family has preserved the peculiar site exactly as it stood. In other words, they continued to prohibit entry, as the vehicles patiently awaited either restoration or their eventual decay.

Within this treasure trove, you'll discover piles of Porsche 356s, a handful of Lamborghini Miuras, and a vast collection of car parts. Among these, there are a few exceptionally rare Mercedes 300 SLs and a variety of unique pieces, including an astonishing pre-war Mercedes. RM Sotheby's has yet to unveil the full details, but the initial previews are nothing short of spectacular. Here's a sneak peek for you:

The Sindelfingen-crafted Mercedes-Benz 500 K 'Caracciola' Special Coupe

It is anticipated to be the highlight of the auction. A unique item that RM Sotheby's refers to as "one of the most renowned pre-war Mercedes-Benz cars."

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL 'Alloy' Gullwing

This vehicle is touted as one of just 29 aluminum gullwing models ever constructed and is uniquely finished in black.

1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Convertible

This early version of the convertible came straight from the factory sporting a red exterior paired with a cream-colored interior, and it was set on Rudge wheels – the most sought-after configuration for this model.

1939 Horch 855 Special Roadster

According to RM Sotheby's, this is the sole surviving 855 model. Its past includes stints in museums and a dash of Hollywood allure, having served as a display vehicle for photo shoots in the 1950s.

1967 Iso Grifo A3/L Convertible Prototype by Bertone

A unique piece in the collection and the sole convertible Grifo ever made.

1961 Porsche 356 B 1600 'Twin-Grille' Roadster crafted by d'leteren

Among the numerous Porsche 356 models featured in the collection's images, this particular one reportedly has barely clocked 1,000 kilometers.

Photo Exhibition: The Rudi Klein Assortment at RM Sotheby's Auction

"Stumbling upon an undiscovered Mercedes 500K or an aluminum Gullwing is the kind of tale that resonates with everyone, not just car buffs," remarks Cary Ahl, a vehicle expert at RM Sotheby's. "The array of vehicles that Klein has gathered is unparalleled, and we are confident that many of these automobiles will stand the test of time. Whether they're repurposed for new ventures or preserved in their pristine condition, it's an exhilarating prospect for collectors. With this collection, the possibilities are limitless."

More eccentric RM Sotheby's auctions

Source: RM Sotheby's Auction House

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