Electric Cars

Magnus Walker, a prominent figure in the air-cooled Porsche community, is divesting a substantial part of his cherished automobile collection. This presents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire some truly exceptional Stuttgart-engineered machines. Eighteen vehicles, including several of his signature custom 1960s and 1970s 911 models, will be offered for sale through a special RM Sotheby's auction, commencing on Wednesday, March 18.

Details of the Coveted Porsche Collection Auction

The auction features an impressive array of Porsches, with several models standing out for their rarity and bespoke modifications. Among the most notable is a 1976 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 MFI, a particularly rare specimen with only 113 units ever produced, marking it as one of Porsche's final road cars to feature mechanical fuel injection. This particular model boasts a striking silver-and-blue exterior complemented by a distinctive tartan plaid interior, with an estimated value ranging between $200,000 and $250,000.

For those interested in the earliest examples, a 1965 short-wheelbase 911, painted in an elegant silver-and-gold livery with a vibrant blue-and-red racing stripe, is also on offer. This car is believed to be one of the first few imported by the legendary Florida dealer and race team, Brumos Porsche. Another highlight is a stunning 1967 911 S, which has received Walker's iconic 'Outlaw' treatment, featuring '67' racing decals, bespoke Outlaw Fifteen52 wheels, and a contrasting red hood.

Beyond naturally aspirated classics, the collection also includes a 1976 911 Turbo, representing the inaugural year for Porsche's forced-induction model in the United States, and a 2002 911 GT2. The diversity of the collection extends beyond air-cooled models, encompassing a 2004 '996' GT3 and several front-engined transaxle era models, such as the 928, 924, 944, and 968.

For the more adventurous collectors, the auction also presents unique project opportunities. These include an incomplete 1965 912 project car and a 1968 911 'Urban Outlaw Starter Kit.' The latter comprises a complete 911 L coupe body, a 2.0-liter flat-six engine, a five-speed gearbox, a wealth of spare parts, and, of course, the signature 'Outlaw' stickers. Walker personally expressed a fondness for an original 1966 short-wheelbase 911 in Irish Green with factory steel wheels, a car he admires for its simplicity and elegance, though acknowledges its estimated price of $100,000 to $150,000 places it beyond typical reach.

In addition to the impressive vehicle lineup, Walker is also making available 142 lots of spare parts and memorabilia. This includes various engines, seats, wheels, and automotive art, all accessible for viewing on the RM Sotheby's auction platform. Bidding for these items will run concurrently with the car auction, from March 18 to 25.

Walker clarified his intentions regarding this significant sale during an appearance on Spike's Car Radio podcast. He confirmed that while 18 Porsches are being sold, he will retain 13 others for his personal enjoyment. He views this as a process of refinement or 'spring cleaning' for his collection, rather than a complete withdrawal from the Porsche community. As Walker eloquently stated to RM Sotheby's, "I reached a point where this out-of-control hobby had come to define who I am in a way, and it feels like shedding my skin, a kind of rebirth. It has taken me some time to get to this point where I am ready to let some of these cars go." This auction, therefore, represents not an end, but a transformation in the journey of a passionate collector.

The Lamborghini LM002, affectionately nicknamed the 'Rambo Lambo,' stands as a monumental precursor to modern luxury SUVs like the Urus, embodying a period when Lamborghini's engineering philosophy blended untamed power with a surprising degree of opulence. This particular 1990 model, one of only 60 U.S.-spec versions ever manufactured, is currently being presented at an auction, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history. Its design, characterized by a formidable presence and tactical military-inspired aesthetics, belies an interior crafted for comfort, featuring lavish leather and advanced amenities such as air conditioning. Underneath its rugged exterior lies a potent 5.2-liter V-12 engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, delivering a truly unique and visceral driving experience that harks back to Lamborghini's golden age of audacious design and engineering.

With a recent comprehensive service and a refreshed suspension, this LM002 is not just a showpiece but a fully functional beast, ready to tackle any terrain with its robust four-wheel-drive system and three locking differentials. Its historical lineage traces back to a vision of a 'super-Jeep' for challenging environments, a concept that evolved significantly from its early prototypes with mid-mounted American V-8 engines to the front-engine, high-luxury civilian model. This evolution facilitated its appeal to discerning clients, including oil executives and Middle Eastern royalty, who sought both extreme capability and exclusivity. The LM002 remains a symbol of an era of automotive excess, a stark contrast to the more domesticated SUVs of today, and its availability on the market represents a chance to own a vehicle that defies conventional categorization, offering both formidable off-road prowess and unmatched character.

The Legacy of the 'Rambo Lambo'

Before the arrival of the Lamborghini Urus, the automotive world witnessed the birth of the LM002, an extraordinary vehicle affectionately known as the 'Rambo Lambo.' This model marked Lamborghini's audacious foray into the SUV segment, showcasing a blend of rugged off-road capability with the brand's signature flair for dramatic performance and luxury. It stood as a testament to Lamborghini's willingness to push boundaries, creating a vehicle that was both imposing in stature and surprisingly refined in its offerings. The LM002's design and engineering philosophy were rooted in a desire to craft something truly unique, challenging the conventional notions of what an SUV could be and solidifying its place as a legendary, albeit eccentric, part of automotive history.

The LM002 was not merely an SUV; it was a statement. Its robust four-wheel-drive system, coupled with a luxurious, leather-appointed interior, set it apart from its contemporaries. The vehicle's chunky tires were specifically designed to handle diverse terrains, underscoring its dual nature as both an off-road beast and a high-end luxury cruiser. At its heart was a powerful Countach engine, providing the visceral roar and exhilarating performance expected from a Lamborghini. With only 60 U.S.-spec models ever sold, the LM002 remains an incredibly rare find, a cherished collector's item that continues to captivate enthusiasts with its distinctive character and formidable presence, representing a unique chapter in Lamborghini's storied past.

A Rare Beast: Unveiling a 1990 LM002 for Acquisition

A pristine example of the 1990 Lamborghini LM002, a truly rare and imposing machine, has recently emerged for auction on Bring a Trailer. This specific model is one of only sixty U.S.-specification units ever produced, making its availability a notable event for collectors and automotive aficionados. Hailing from San Diego, this LM002 boasts an impeccable maintenance history, including servicing by Canepa, a highly respected name in the world of exotic vehicle restoration and care. Its unique aesthetic, characterized by an arctic camouflage finish, pairs with a powerful 5.2-liter V-12 engine and a five-speed manual transmission, delivering a driving experience that is as sonorous as it is commanding, truly a symphony of power and performance.

The journey of the LM002 began with prototypes exploring American V-8 power, eventually settling on a conventional front-engine layout that, coupled with a high degree of luxury, targeted civilian markets. Features such as air conditioning, premium leather seating, and specialized Pirelli Scorpion tires designed for sand made it a coveted vehicle among oil companies and royalty. This particular LM002, with approximately 17,000 miles, has recently undergone significant mechanical refreshment, including a $32,000 overhaul by Canepa Motorsports in 2019 and a suspension upgrade by a European marques specialist last month, ensuring its readiness for both display and daring adventures. Its robust 444-horsepower V-12 engine, channeled through a two-speed transfer case and three locking differentials, guarantees immense off-road capability, truly defining it as a rhinoceros among vehicles—less practical, perhaps, but undeniably impressive and a testament to an era of unbridled automotive ambition.