Iconic American Concept Cars Up for Grabs at Mecum’s No-Reserve Auction in Chicago
If you’re a fan of automotive history, mark your calendar for September 19-21, 2025. That’s when Mecum Auctions will host the Larry’s Legacy event at the now-closed Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum in Chicago. This isn’t just any sale – it’s a no-reserve blowout of nearly 300 collector vehicles, including some real gems from America’s design past. Two standouts? The wild 1982 Dodge Turbo Charger, a functional IndyCar pace car with gullwing doors, and the elegant 2002 Lincoln Continental concept, powered by an Aston Martin V12. These aren’t your everyday classics; they’re rolling pieces of what-could-have-been, and they’re hitting the block without a safety net.
I’ve always loved how concept cars capture a moment in time – the bold ideas, the experimental tech, the sheer audacity. Most end up forgotten or destroyed, but these two survived in a museum setting. Now, with the Klairmont collection dispersing, enthusiasts get a shot at owning them. Let’s break down why these Mecum auction concept cars are worth your attention, starting with the Dodge that paced legends like Mario Andretti.
The 1982 Dodge Turbo Charger: A Turbocharged Slice of Motorsports History
Picture this: It’s the early ’80s, synth music is blasting, and Dodge is pushing boundaries with turbo tech. The 1982 Dodge Turbo Charger wasn’t just a show pony – it was a fully drivable beast that served as the official pace car for the PPG Indy Car World Series in 1981 and 1982. We’re talking leading packs of open-wheel racers at events like the Budweiser Cleveland 500, with an orange siren on the roof and aerodynamic flair that screamed future.
Built on the fifth-generation Charger’s front-wheel-drive platform (1981-1987), this one-off concept got a serious makeover. Sleek wedge-shaped bodywork, a massive rear wing, fairings over the rear wheels, and those eye-catching gullwing doors made it look like it escaped from a sci-fi flick. Originally decked out in silver and red, it’s since been repainted in silver with blue accents – a nod to its evolving life.
Under the hood? A turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four engine, the same one that later powered production Chargers, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. Dodge never released official specs, but similar models hit around 142 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, good for a 0-60 mph sprint in about 7.6 seconds in Shelby-tuned versions. For pace car duty, they beefed it up with upgraded brakes, a wider track, and a tuned suspension with sway bars, stiff springs, and performance dampers to handle the track’s demands.
Inside, it’s all business: Recaro race seats with harnesses, a roll cage for safety, and an airplane-inspired dashboard with a row of dials. NACA ducts ahead of the rear doors add that extra dramatic touch. This car’s VIN is 1B3BZ54B7CD151875, and it’ll cross the block as Lot R206 on Sunday, September 21 – no reserve means it could go for a steal if the bidding stays cool.
What makes it special? It’s not just a static display; it’s a drivable piece of American motorsports lore that starred at the 1982 Chicago and Detroit Auto Shows. In a world where manuals and turbos were king, this Dodge Turbo Charger embodies the era’s push for efficiency and excitement.
The 2002 Lincoln Continental Concept: Luxury Meets British Muscle
Fast-forward to the early 2000s, when Lincoln was rethinking its flagship. The 2002 Lincoln Continental concept debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show, teasing a revival of the iconic nameplate that had been absent since 2002. It previewed styling cues that influenced later models like the MKZ and MKX, blending retro elegance with modern luxury.
This full-size sedan exudes class: Upright bodywork, chrome accents everywhere – including a strip running from the front bumper over the fenders to the taillights – and 22-inch chrome wheels. Rear-hinged coach doors (aka suicide doors) open wide for easy access, echoing the classic Continentals from the ’60s. The trunk? A clever split-tailgate setup where the top lifts up and the bottom slides out like a drawer, complete with fitted silver luggage that puzzles into place.
Power comes from a borrowed gem: Ford owned Aston Martin back then, so they slotted in a 6.0-liter V12 making 414 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic sending power to the rear wheels. It’s body-on-frame construction with independent suspension all around and four-wheel disc brakes – built to cruise in style.
The interior is a haven of tan leather and silver metal accents, with spacious rear seating, a fold-out table, a built-in TV, and even umbrellas stowed in the doors for that old-school luxury vibe. Fiber optic lighting and LED tech were cutting-edge at the time. Note: This is a functional prototype, but it’s not street-legal and might need some TLC to run smoothly.
Listed as Lot S280 on Saturday, September 20, this 2002 Lincoln Continental concept is a rare chance to own a V12-powered vision that never hit production. It’s the kind of car that turns heads at shows and reminds us of Lincoln’s bold ambitions.
Why This Auction is a Collector’s Dream
The Klairmont Kollections closing is bittersweet – Larry Klairmont built an incredible museum over decades – but it opens the door for new owners. With 295 cars and over 1,000 pieces of road art all at no reserve, prices could surprise. Preview days are September 13-14 for a last look at the museum.
These Mecum auction concept cars aren’t just vehicles; they’re time capsules. The Dodge captures ’80s turbo fever and racing heritage, while the Lincoln blends American opulence with European power. If you’re into unique rides, this no-reserve auction in Chicago could be your ticket to owning history.
Thinking of bidding? Head to Mecum’s site for registration and more details. What’s your pick – the pace car Dodge or the V12 Lincoln? Share in the comments!