Why is Ron Pratte selling his impressive auto collection?
Have you heard of Ron Pratte? If you’re into classic cars, the answer is a resounding yes. A fixture at auto auctions for the better part of a decade, Pratte is the owner of one of the finest car collections in the world. If you aren’t familiar with him, you obviously have some catching up to do. In Jan. 2015, Pratte’s impressive collection will be auctioned off at the 44th Barrett-Jackson auto auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, much to the surprise of auto collectors everywhere.
So why is Ron Pratte selling his epic car collection and how did he add a couple extra days to the upcoming Barrett-Jackson auction in January? Simply stated, it’s the most kick-ass collection to hit the market… ever. Pratte was a Vietnam veteran who made his fortune in the construction industry and sold his business just before the housing bubble burst, making him an estimated $350 million. While he was already collecting cars at this time, he soon turned up his focus on procuring the world’s most desired cars and has amassed a collection of over 100 vehicles, including many “star cars” and an almost countless array of automobilia. Known for meticulously going through his purchased cars and getting them into showroom quality and condition is one reason why the Pratte collection is in such rare air.
One of his notable vehicles for sale is the breath-taking 1950 GM Futurliner. One of only three restored Futurliners in existence, Pratte restored his to even further lengths after he purchased it in 2006, making it the apex of the remaining Futurliners. It is truly amazing to behold.
Another amazing vehicle up for grabs is Pratte’s 1954 Pontiac Bonneville Special concept car, which is one of only two ever made. The last time it sold it went for $3,080,000.00. Some cars were made to take the population to mundane jobs and pick up their kids from soccer practice. Others were made to drop jaws and bring grown men to their knees with horsepower, style and all around awesomeness. The Bonneville is one of those cars.
While it’s unknown exactly why Pratte is suddenly selling all his prized vehicles, we do know that the entire car world is watching and eagerly awaiting to see which unknown classics will be made available. Tune in the week of Jan 10–18th for live updates and photos from the show.
