About the auction: For over 32 years, McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auctions have run a family owned and operated auction company, holding two classic car auction events twice a year in Palm Springs, CA. With 500 classic vehicles being auctioned, it has grown into a Southern California tradition for buyers and sellers alike.
History: Back in 1981, Keith McCormick had already become a successful entrepreneur in his native United Kingdom, but he longed to realize a dream to move to Palm Springs, California and devote his time entirely to his family...and his cars. In 1985, Keith hosted his very first exotic car auction. A modest affair, by today's standards, but one that would start a tradition. Today, Keith's relentless dedication to excellence and integrity has produced one of the most prestigious, respected, and successful car auctions in America.
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McCormick's recent Palm Springs Classic Car Auction was greatly affected by rain, which had an impact on attendance numbers. However, the event still had a good turnout with many great cars on display. The storms that Southern California experienced during the auction were significant, so much so that local authorities such as CalTrans and the highway Patrol advised against traveling at that time unless absolutely necessry. As a result, McCormick's organizers experienced a number of last minute cancellations for the auction; this also hindered buyer, as well enthusiast attendance as well but despite these challenges, the auction still took place, and staff, particpants, and enthusiasts made the best of the situation. The fact that the auction still went on is a testament to the Southern Californian car people who are passionate about the hobby, even with challenges such as these.
The auction on Feb. 24-26 posted $4.2 million in sales during record-setting rain and snowstorms in Southern California. The highest sale went to a 1960 Mercedes 220 SE for $159,000, followed by a 2016 Mercedes G63 AMG 4-door for $86,920. A 1987.5 Rolls Royce Corniche II convertible fetched $61,216.
The next McCormick auction will be held on Nov. 17-19, 2023.
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