Racing aficionados and collectors are gearing up for an electrifying moment at The Bonhams|Cars Monaco Sale, ‘Les Grandes Marques à Monaco’, on May 10th, as one of the most historically significant Formula 1 cars makes its way to the auction block. The 1957-58 Lotus-Climax Type 12 chassis ‘353’, estimated at €290,000 – €390,000 ($308,000 – $415,000), is poised to steal the spotlight, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of motorsport history.
I had never seen a car so wanton, so rakish, almost obscene. It was like a streetwalker in 8-in high heels. What amazed me then was that it had a Chevy V8 as an engine, iron block, pushrod. Detroit crudity in an exotic. I forgot poetry and instantly became a car guy.
A couple years later I was writing car ads in Detroit and a boss mentioned an obscure Italian car was down at a Corvette shop; I might want to take a look at it.
It was a Bizzarrini Targa.
Now, in 2022, I’d say it’s worth what — 2 to 3 million? Give or take.
