The Gulf Coast Classic Auction returns to Punta Gorda, Florida, on December 5 and 6, bringing a broad mix of collectible cars, muscle machines, exotics and specialty vehicles to the Charlotte Harbor Event Center. Hosted at 75 Taylor Street, the sale draws buyers, sellers and dealers from across the country with live, phone and online bidding available. This year’s catalog reflects the auction’s signature variety — from rare Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship to modern Aston Martin performance and quirky Americana.
One of the most attention-grabbing entries is Lot D25-282, a 1984 Pontiac Ferrari Testarossa Coupe. Built on a stretched Pontiac Fiero platform, the replica leans fully into its Testarossa inspiration, down to its proper five-lug Ferrari-style wheels, flip-up headlights and side strakes. Power comes from a 2.8-liter V-6 paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. The burgundy-over-tan cabin features bucket seats, a console and an updated AM/FM/Bluetooth touchscreen system. With functional components and unusually thorough detailing for a replica, it is expected to draw curiosity bidders looking for something both nostalgic and unconventional.
For bidders seeking the real pedigree of a modern exotic, Lot D25-274, a 2009 Aston Martin DB9 Convertible, offers 470 horsepower from its 4.9-liter V-12. Showing just over 14,400 actual miles, the DB9 presents in silver over black leather with a matching black soft top. Equipment includes power accessories throughout, air conditioning and the hallmark smooth automatic transmission. Aside from the rear glass beginning to separate slightly from the soft top fabric, the car appears clean and lightly driven — a strong example of the model’s elegant grand-touring design.
The auction also features a notable piece of Mercedes-Benz history. Lot D25-460, a 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet Low Grill, represents one of an estimated 400 units produced in this rare configuration. Finished in Silver Blue over Dark Blue with a matching top, the hand-built cabriolet includes the wider grille, flared fenders and elevated build quality that made it cost nearly twice as much as a same-year 280SL when new. This example features documented ownership from new, upgraded air conditioning, power windows and steering, four-wheel disc brakes and a new stainless-steel exhaust installed in July 2024. Proper storage and consistent maintenance further enhance its desirability.
With hundreds of cars crossing the block over two days, this year’s Gulf Coast Classic Auction continues to reinforce its reputation as one of Southwest Florida’s most diverse buyer’s markets. From European craftsmanship to V-12 touring cars and uniquely American creativity, the event’s offerings cater to collectors across nearly every category — all set against the backdrop of Punta Gorda’s growing car culture.
Join us live for the Gulf Coast Classic Auction in Punta Gorda Florida on December 5th and 6th.
Our Gulf Coast Classic Auction is your destination for buying and selling muscle cars, classic cars, exotic vehicles, and vintage trucks in the heart of Southwest Florida.
Located at the CHARLOTTE HARBOR EVENT CENTER on 75 Taylor Street in scenic Punta Gorda, FL, our top-rated car auction brings together car collectors, classic car enthusiasts, and auto dealers from across the country. Our professionally managed auction features a wide variety of rare and collectible vehicles, live bidding, phone bidding and online auction options — all in one exciting event.
Shawn Henry