Abu Dhabi car enthusiasts eye up some of the rarest vehicles in the world at auction in Emirates Palace hotel

Car enthusiasts with deep pockets will be able to get their hands on some of the rarest vehicles in the world this weekend.

This race-winning Nova NAascar is one of more than 40 cars in the upcoming auction that will be broadcast at Emirates Palace from the US. Courtesy of RKMCCA

ABU DHABI // Car enthusiasts with deep pockets will be able to get their hands on some of the rarest vehicles in the world on Saturday night.

R K Motors Collector Car Auctions has put together more than 70 prestige vehicles for which people can bid.

Up for grabs is a McLaren M26 F1 racing car, driven to three Grand Prix victories in the 1977 world championship by James Hunt.

The anticipated sale price of the vehicle is between US$1.2 million and $1.8m, and it will be on display for bidders at the Emirates Palace hotel.

The auction, held by simulcast video link from the United States, will begin at 8pm on Saturday local time. The event is being held in Charlotte, North Carolina, in the US.

Pre-qualified bidders will have the chance to get their hands on other unique cars such as a 1954 Mercedes Gullwing, an original, early model Lamborghini Countach, or a 1963 Corvette.

“We are very excited to host this event in the capital city of the UAE for the very first time,” said Bradley Gresham, the organiser’s representative.

“We believe this will be the first event of a long series, as UAE drivers and collectors have shown in past years they like to distinguish themselves with a very demanding style.”

“It is a well-known fact that the top luxury car makers look at the Emirates as an undisputed premier market, to where all the first lots of new and exclusive cars find their way more often than not, while it is absolutely clear that the classic cars market is becoming a true rage throughout the Gulf region as well.”

A list of the available vehicles can be found online at www.rkmcca.com.