The Driver's Briefing – Event Highlights & Updates

By: Event President - Connor Wohl

3/11/2025

Kicking Off 2025 with a Bang

Our January MB C & C event marked the start of 2025 in the best way possible—over 200+ cars filled the lot, including our overflow section, making it a packed and exciting morning. The flyer for the event featured a stunning 1950s Ferrari with the MB Pier in the background, a nod to the beauty of SoCal car culture. In an incredible twist of fate, this very car manifested itself at the next month's event. January was also a special month as we hosted the event in support of LA wildfire victims, selling out of our baked goods and raising over $200, which we proudly donated to the California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund. Following the event, we gathered for our Dine Around at Tin Roof Bistro, where the food was great, but the conversations were even better. One standout chat was with a local Corvette E-Ray owner, and I have to admit—while I've never been drawn to hybrid/EV cars, this thing is bonkers. It still packs V8 power, has better mileage, and honestly, the C8 Corvette design is starting to grow on me. We also got into some deep dives on the BMW E46 M3 and its legendary S54 engine, proving once again that MB C & C is as much about the people and conversations as it is about the cars.  

February's Standout Machines

Last weekend's February MB C & C was another huge success, drawing well over 225+ enthusiast cars and 500+ attendees. Each month, I'm in awe of the variety of vehicles and the history behind them—it's amazing to see how this small slice of Manhattan Beach becomes a magnet for the most incredible machines. This month's show featured some true icons, from an Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 to a rare Mille Miglia Ferrari, alongside a 2019 Ford GT and an absolutely stunning PTS Cobalt Blue Porsche 993 Turbo. My personal favorite? The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing in an ultra-rare factory turquoise blue—a sight to behold in person. Of course, Pit Stop Bakery brought their A-game once again, and while I always try to stay focused on the cars, I have to say their coffee cake was next level.

What's Coming in March

Looking ahead, we're gearing up for another great MB C & C on Saturday, March 29th. This month, we'll have music by DJ Canyon Crespo, fresh pastries from Pit Stop Bakery, and a new automotive clothing vendor making their debut. We're also in talks with a manufacturer to bring out a special showcase car, which we're excited to announce soon! As always, the event is open to all makes and models, so spread the word and bring your fellow enthusiasts.

Looking forward to another incredible morning—see you all at The Point on March 29th!

MB Motoring Market Watch: Maximizing Your Car's Value - A Guide to Selling on Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, and Online Auctions in 2025

Selling an enthusiast vehicle—whether it's a modern exotic, a vintage European sedan, or a meticulously restored 1950s restomod—is never an easy decision. Many owners form strong emotional connections with their cars, whether from years of ownership, hands-on restoration work, or the simple joy of spirited driving. I can relate personally—every time I consider selling my BMW M Roadster in favor of something newer or faster, I always come back to the fundamentals of why I love the car. Hopefully, I'll keep it for years to come.

That said, there are many reasons why owners decide to sell. Whether it's to fund a new project, free up space in the garage, or simply move on to something different, selling strategically is critical. Having extensive experience in the auction industry—handling real estate, business assets, and automobiles—I've developed a strong understanding of how auctions work, their nuances, and how to maximize the sales process for specialty vehicles. This case study outlines the key differences between auctions and brokered sales, why online auctions are an effective sales strategy, and how to prepare your car to achieve the best possible result.

Auction vs. Brokered Sale: Understanding the Differences

When selling your car, you typically have two primary options:

1. Brokered Sale (Consignment)

• Sales Process: You list your car with a dealer or consignor who markets it through their network and traditional channels.

• Timeframe: Open-ended, meaning there is no guaranteed sale date.

• Cost: Dealers or consignors can charge up to 15% commission on the sale price.

• Best For: High-value or rare vehicles where a retail buyer may take time to surface.

2. Online Auction (Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Hemmings, etc.)

• Sales Process: Your car is listed in a structured, time-bound auction (typically 7 days), where buyers bid competitively.

• Timeframe: Fixed auction window ensures a date-certain sale.

• Cost: Lower selling fees—sellers pay a small listing fee, while buyers cover a 5% buyer's premium to the auction house.

• Best For: Cars that benefit from broad exposure, competitive bidding, and a structured timeline.

Choosing between a brokered sale and an online auction depends on your priorities. If you're looking for a faster sale, international reach, and a competitive bidding environment, an online auction is often the better option.

Reserve vs. No Reserve: Which Strategy Works Best?

Once you decide on an auction, you'll need to choose between a reserve or no reserve sale.

A no reserve auction means your car will sell regardless of the final bid. This is an excellent way to generate excitement and competitive bidding, as buyers know that when the clock runs out, there will be a new owner. While some sellers are hesitant to list their car without a safety net, this approach can yield strong results, especially for enthusiast cars under $25,000 with high demand—like a low-mile, one-owner 2003 BMW 325i E46.

A reserve auction, on the other hand, allows you to set a minimum sale price. If bidding doesn't meet or exceed this threshold, the car won't sell. While this protects the seller from underselling, it can deter bidders if the reserve is set too high. Platforms like Bring a Trailer often negotiate reserves, as they prefer listings that have a high likelihood of selling. Sellers can also lower the reserve during the auction if bidding is active but hasn't yet reached the desired price.

Both strategies have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your comfort level, the market demand for your vehicle, and your flexibility in pricing.

Why Choose an Online Auction?

Online auctions provide a structured and effective way to sell enthusiast vehicles, offering:

✔ Date-certainty for a sale—eliminates waiting months for the right buyer.
✔ Access to a competitive buyer pool—enthusiast platforms attract serious bidders.
✔ International exposure—reaching collectors and buyers worldwide.
✔ A cost-effective alternative to consignment—lower fees, with the buyer covering the auction premium.

For many sellers, this is the best method to maximize visibility, create competitive urgency, and secure a fair market price. However, success in an online auction depends on proper preparation, transparency, and engagement.

How to Prepare Your Car for a Successful Online Auction

Success in an online auction starts well before bidding begins. Proper preparation ensures your vehicle is presented in the best possible light and that buyers feel confident placing strong bids.