Why is Ron Pratte selling his impressive auto collection?

October 25, 2014

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, Prattes impressive collection will be auctioned off at the 44th Barrett-Jackson auto auction in Scottsdale Arizona, much to the surprise of auto collectors everywhere.

  photo: Drew Phillips
Carroll Shelby’s personal 1969 Cobra purchased by Pratte in 2008 photo: Drew Phillips

 

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, its 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 worlds 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.

 

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Prattes 1950 GM Futurliner Photo: Barrett-Jackson

 

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.

 

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The über rare 1954 Pontiac Bonneville special Photo: Don Keefe

 

Another amazing vehicle up for grabs is Prattes 1954 Pontiac Bonniville 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.

 

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Prattes 1945 Tucker Torpedo #1045 photo:Barrett-Jackson

 

While its 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.

View Ron Pratte Collection Images >

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