Scores of car enthusiasts got their motors running and bought numerous classic and collectible cars this weekend at the Westerner.
The 8th annual Red Deer speed show collector car auction featured a seemingly endless line of classic cars including Shelby GTs, Camaros, Corvettes, Mustangs, Dodge Darts, a couple of Prosche 911 Carerras, a 1967 Dodge Charger and more.
For eight years now Todd Schwindt has put on the auction through his business Electric Garage Auctions.
“We had huge crowds on Friday and Saturday,” said Schwindt. “Probably put through more people through the gate than we ever have.”
The cars, as well as automobile memorabilia took over the Westerner Park from Friday to Sunday. The top seller by Sunday morning was a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette 427 that went for more than $100,000.
Schwindt said the auction had high numbers, selling at least 75 to 80 per cent of the cars they consigned.
“That’s huge,” said Schwindt. “Most classic car auctions sell on average half of their cars. You do anything over 50 per cent and you’re doing really well.”
Overall he said the sales percentage was comparable to years past, but they had more people through the gates taking a look at the vehicles.
For Schwindt the shows are great, but the cars are his passion.
“I deal with cars every single day,” he said. “I sell cars online every day, I love to buy cars, I love auctions. I love the energy of auctions.”
He buys at auctions in California and Arizona and holds them in Alberta.
Schwindt and EGAuctions next show is set for April 11 to 13 at the Expo Center in Edmonton. He said they have 35 estate collector cars selling with no reserve.
The next Red Deer auction is the fall finale, which also takes place at the Westerner Park, 4847 19A St., on Sept. 19 and 20.
For more information visit www.egauctions.com.
mcrawford@www.reddeeradvocate.com