Ten facts to take home from Monterey 2016

The numbers are in. Looking at Bonhams, Gooding and RM, more than $282m traded hands in three days. Here's what you need to know:
 
1.  Sales total: $282,357,750. (2015 - $339,818,600; 2014 - $356,616,250; 2013 - $267,612,750).  

2. Percentage sold by number: 84%. (2015 88%; 2014 90%; 2013 87%).
 
3. Only one headlining lot exceeded its estimate. Ironically, it was the one that many pundits said would not stand a chance – the first Cobra built.
 
4. It was an American benefit with home bidders vastly outnumbering the opposition.
 
5. Average age of cars sold: 1963. (2015 1963; 2014 1960; 2013 1957).
 
6. The very best American pre-War classics surprised with strong prices.
 
7. Auctioneers matter. The atmosphere and pace of rivals gave the impression of subdued vs. energetic bidding.
 
8. US vendors and bidders were pragmatic compared with the Europeans: do a deal today, instead of ‘wait and see tomorrow’.
 
9. Down: Ferrari Daytona coupés, Ferrari 275 GTBs, Mercedes 540Ks, Ferrari 330 GTCs and GTSs, Toyota 2000 GTs.
 
10. Up: LaFerraris, Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider Americas, Ford GT40s.