By Kathy Krzystowczyk
VIEW Contributor
NOVI — The Michigan International Spring Classic Car Auction at the Rock Financial Show Place in Novi was quite a sight to behold.

Background music ranging from the early 1950s to the mid-’60s provided the right nostalgic touch and whole families were in attendance, with grandparents telling grandchildren about cars they used to own and what had become of them.

The event, presented by Ontario-based RM Auctions, spanned three days, with Friday open for all to preview vehicles and associated items, then the remainder of the weekend for the actual auction.

The auction staff worked with near- military precision. Vehicles were arranged for display in order of appearance on the auction block, but with ease of view in mind as well. Many of the items were offered “without reserve,” meaning the owner had not placed an accepted minimum bid as a starting price.

Of the many individuals selling their cars at the auction, Kelly Martin of North Branch offered his 1957 Cadillac Limousine for bid. He drove it home after the auction, because no bidders would match his minimum- price reserve.

In addition, there were three collections available from collectors Bud Mick, Art Astor and Bud Oberhaus.

Condition of the cars varied. Several cars were absolutely stunning. A handful looked as though they should be sitting on a used car lot. A few unique vehicles had a bit of a back story, like the 1984 Rolls-Royce Silver Spur Saloon, custom painted in a two-tone metal-flake gold and silver, purportedly for a “religious cult leader.”

Or the 1988 Lamborghini LM002, which sold for $93,500. It is the Italian version of what is now a commonplace SUV.

The 1938 Packard Twelve Brunn Touring Cabriolet on the block was one of only 17 ever built. Referred to as a “Landaulet,” it has a collapsible rear section roof, a divided window and a chauffer’s buzzer. Built by hand, with no expense spared, the Packard Twelve Brunn is exactly the type of luxury vehicle one imagines the wealthy once drove. With dramatic style and attention to detail the elegance is obvious. It’s not surprising that it sold for $187,000.

Many car buffs have their favorites. Some groups seemed to gather around the Mustangs, Bel Airs, Road Runners and, of course, the ever-popular Cadillac. Models included the 1959 Cadillac Series 62 two-door hardtop with its enormous tail fins (which did not sell), to the Cadillacs of the early 1970s. Several people said they could close their eyes and imagine Elvis behind the wheel.

Some attendees looked anxious. A man named Carl was only the second owner of his 1963 Pontiac Tempest station wagon, which was specially ordered by the mother of a newly promoted GM employee at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren. Carl says that he’s only had it out of his garage twice for a total of 125 miles since he acquired it in 1973. It finally went under the hammer for $12,760.

With the arrival of sunny days and warm temps also come the car cruises. Those who attend usually speculate on what their vehicles might be worth. A smattering of results provides car buffs something to dream about.

1972 Ford Mustang convertible - $18,700.
1969 Plymouth Road Runner two-door hardtop - $40,700.
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door hardtop - $31,350.
1963 Chrysler Newport police cruiser - $22,550.
1955 Ford Fairlane Sunliner convertible - $42,350.

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