At some point in his time collecting, it occurred to Todd Werner that there was a reason the cars he was amassing had become so popular to begin with, and that reason was their race-car counterparts, specifically those that actually took to the racetracks with the precise goal of propelling their respective makes and models not only to the finish line, but also into the limelight.
As just about every baby boomer-era enthusiast will recall, there was a time when the adage “Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” translated to real life about as literally as any such truism can. And, as a result, many of the muscle cars that grew to become icons of the time owe the entirety of their popularity to their race-prepared brethren. It was that realization that compelled Werner to shift the focus of his collection. Having already acquired top-quality examples of his favorite muscle cars, he found himself wondering what to pursue next, when it dawned on him: why not seek out the cars that “made” the cars? And so began the journey that would ultimately lead to the creation of one of the world’s most historically significant collections of vintage race and muscle cars.
In large part due to that top-shelf nature of Werner’s cars, he has typically been one to hold onto the vehicles he acquires, noting that others have even jokingly referred to his garage as a black hole. But bidders in Harrisburg this July 31 through August 3 should prepare themselves for the opportunity of a lifetime as some of the most amazing muscle cars, famed race cars and more from Werner’s collection are now slated to cross the Mecum auction block.
With more than 40 cars and even a few motorcycles in the group, the list of his track stars and muscle cars is a long one and rich in history. These are, after all, the cars that made the cars, and in a way, that also makes them the cars that made the hobby. A heady assortment of true heyday heroes, the Todd Werner collection is an exceedingly rare group boasting authenticity, originality and pedigree in spades. Opportunities like this are as rare as the race cars themselves, and 42 of the 44 vehicles from Werner’s collection will be offered at no reserve, so don’t miss the chance to make one of these thoroughly vetted victors of the racetrack your own this August.
