San Francisco – Mega movie star Bruce Willis has been a continuous part of popular culture since he charmed his way onto the world stage more than 20 years ago, in the television series Moonlighting and then starring in the Die Hard film franchise.
Along the way this leading man amassed a stunning collection of American muscle cars that he’s decided to turn loose with the help of auctioneers Bonhams Butterfields in Los Angeles on October 25th.
Like Willis himself these cars are purely American and focus on attitude, strength, performance, individuality and quality.
A few highlights of five of these magnificent automobiles to Die For.
1957 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
A gift from his then wife Demi Moore, it received a thorough restoration and retains its original 283cu-in engine delivering 220hp, has Powerglide transmission, front disc brakes, power booster, power steering, and comes with both soft and hard tops. (Est. $70,000/$90,000)
1967 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster
Considered the most desirable year-model Corvette in history, this 427cu-in big block offers 435hp and takes off like it’s turbocharged when the second set of Holley 2-barrel carbs comes on line. Like all of Willis’ cars, it has extras like power brakes, power steering, Cragar S/S alloy wheels, and an Alpine 5-CD changer in the glove box with an infrared remote so it doesn’t detract from the otherwise stock appearance or require removal of the original AM-FM radio. (Est. $110,000/$150,000)
1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 Convertible
This gorgeous, essentially stock car with 400cu-in V8 engine and 330hp is fully equipped with factory A/C, front disc brakes with power assist, power steering, 4-speed manual transmission (recently rebuilt), dual exhausts, Power Flex fan, twin hood scoops, and its original radio which has been augmented by an Alpine stereo system whose custom speakers are tucked into the back of the car. (Est. $30,000/$50,000)
1968 Shelby Mustang GT 500 Convertible
The perfect, updated convertible version of the iconic car that launched Steve McQueen through the streets of San Francisco in the classic movie Bullitt. Willis had leading professionals exhaustively rework the engine to 468cu-in delivering 570hp! A full mechanical restoration included drivetrain, suspension, body and cosmetics to the utmost degree. The list of add-ons is staggering but what’s most interesting about this sexy powerhouse is that there are only two visual hints that this car isn’t stock: the polished Cragar S/S alloy wheels and, when seen in motion, a controlled suspension that informs onlookers that this is a serious driver’s car.
(Est. $150,000/$175,000)
1969 Dodge Charger
Having a Bullitt-style Mustang that McQueen’s character drove meant that Willis needed a Bullitt Charger that the bad guys drove. This 2-door hardtop has a 440 engine bored and stroked to 502cu-in offering 700hp, along with all the extras like Aries pistons, Edelbrock heads and intake manifold, Holley carbs, Flowmaster exhaust, Mopar 4-wheel disc brakes, Hydroboost assist, power steering, Perfect Fit A/C, Alpine stereo, and much, much more. (Est. $50,000/$70,000)
These no-expense-spared performance cars personally upgraded, owned and driven this sliver screen legend will be offered at Bonhams’ annual Classic California Sale held at the Petersen Automotive Museum in downtown L.A.’s Miracle Mile District on Saturday, October 25th.
Complete and detailed descriptions of these cars as well as the never-before-offered personal belongings of Steve McQueen, offered by his first wife, Niele Adams, can be found in the sale catalog.
This may be reviewed and purchased at
www.Bonhams.com/us Interested collectors may register to bid in the auction – in person or remotely – via the website, by e-mailing
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, or by calling 415-391-4000.
Whether for the cars or effects of either movie star, Willis or McQueen, or for the inventory of exceptional motorcycles, motorcars and automobilia being offered, this unique sale is not to be missed.
For general information about the Motoring Department, please visit
www.Bonhams.com/Motors
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