Many people in the enthusiast community know that Jerry Seinfeld practically embodies the term Porschephile. In fact, no less an authority than his fellow comedian and car-show host, Jay Leno, said he believes Seinfeld may know as much about the marque than just about anybody.
He isn’t just a celebrity who possesses a collection as a mere display of status—rather, it’s the byproduct of a lifelong, and deep love of cars. That’s why it may be surprising to some that Seinfeld recently announced he will be selling a few cars out of his collection at the upcoming Gooding & Company Amelia Island Auction in Florida on March 11th.
Seinfeld isn’t selling because he needs the money or the stock market just tanked—not that there’s anything wrong with that! No, evidently, it’s because he is the enthusiast’s enthusiast.
“I’ve never bought a car as an investment,” states Seinfeld in a statement from Gooding & Company. “I don’t really even think of myself as a collector. I just love cars. And I still love these cars. But it’s time to send some of them back into the world, for someone else to enjoy, as I have.”
Bidding? You’ll have your pick of three: first, an original and unrestored 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder which the auction house pegs at between $5 million and $6 million. Second, a 1958 Porsche 356 A 1500 GS/GT Carrera Speedster, one of only 151 built with the four-cam engine, and a prize winner at the Quail Motorsports Gathering and valued at between $2 million and $2.5 million. Third, a 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 IROC RSR formerly owned by Roger Penske, and with period racing history that’s been valued at between $1.2 million and $1.5 million.
These won’t be the only Seinfeld cars to cross the block, as an auction house spokesperson stated “there will be many more than just these three”—so perhaps save a few million for the next round.
It remains to be seen if Seinfeld’s ownership will add a premium to what is sure to be spirited bidding, but what is for certain is that Seinfeld has been a wonderful steward for these cars. “Jerry’s keen eye for significant Porsches,” said David Gooding, President of Gooding & Company, “the care and pride he takes in maintaining his spectacular collection, and his enthusiasm and passion for the Porsche marque makes this one of our most thrilling sales in our company’s history.”
Gooding will preview the cars at its auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, on January, 27th. It remains to be seen what Seinfeld will do with the proceeds. Our suggestion? Buy more Porsches, of course…
