GOING GOING GONE

The Toronto Spring Car Auction

If you're like me you stay away from auctions because mistakenly scratching one's head may buy you some god-awful item at some enormous price then you understand why I pondered the invite to the local spring car auction here in Toronto. Thinking it's bets to try this event once in my life I made the mental note to a) keep my hands in my pockets at all times and b) do not bring the American Express Card.

The Toronto International Spring Classic Car auction is just one of five annual events produced by RMClassic Car productions and only the second auction per year in Toronto. While lacking in the prestige that the Barrett Jackson Auction has - no Escada fashion show here, the quality and quantity of vehicles up for sale were pleasantly surprising. In the course of 3 days more than 300 cars would be passing through with at least one to suit your taste and pocket book. My fears of casual wave buying me a LADA were foolish since all bidders must register before. Without a bidder number you cannot bid on a car. At this time pick up a list of what's offered so you can have the approximate time schedule of each car's turn "on the block".

RMCars suggest you take the time to fully inspect a car. While deals are meant to be made I strongly advise bringing a well informed and trusted car person with you. A close look inside and out and of course, underneath can determine the value of this car and a good listen to the motor before purchasing can help pinpoint any problems or defects the car might have. As one big auction supporter said "Bid on what cars you know about and you'll be more likely to get a deal". Hence I scanned the Ferrari 246 Dino with wide eyes - from what I read it did not meet it's reserve. Now reserve is the base amount the seller wants for the car - but this can be lowered at the auction block so don't despair. Some cars may come with a no-reserve which will guarantee a sale at any cost. One important thing to remember is the price you bid doesn't include taxes and a 5% buyers fee.

True automotive enthusiasts know the historical importance of documentation of the vehicle. One vehicle up for sale was one of the last 2002 Trans Ams produced. Factory tags and plastic in tact would make this car highly collectable to the GM fan. Original tools and records of a classic Ferrari add value to the vehicle but only to that Marque's follower. While the majority of the vehicles offered were of show car quality - some were in need of TLC. As at any auction some never sold, sometimes a true showing of the market value. RMCars also ensures that clear and free titles are available for all cars sold. A very important point especially when importing/exporting cars since a clear title means there is no lien against the car and the car has not been "salvaged".

As I watched some great cars roll off the auction block to be sent to their new home - many destine for the USA. With Free Trade certain American made cars are not subject to duties and taxes - even the rate for imports is viable when currency exchange is brought into the picture. If your pocket book only allows you to bid on a hamburger ( and no they aren't up for auction) don't worry - think of The Toronto International Spring Classic Car auction as a great mini-car show for us car nuts.