THE JIM GILSTRAP COLLECTION: Amazing Cars with Amazing Stories
December 26, 2024
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
LOT #1383 – 2022 LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP 780-4 ULTIMAE – NO RESERVE
Jim Gilstrap’s life story is as captivating as the remarkable car collection he’s assembled. Orphaned at just eight years old, Gilstrap’s journey has been anything but ordinary. He played high school football, ran moonshine in his youth, raced cars and worked at a gas station before finding his way into the world of professional music—sharing the stage with a young Elvis Presley, who once opened for him. A man of many talents, he also competed as a professional polo player alongside King Charles, Tommy Lee Jones, Sam Sheppard and others. Gilstrap counted automotive legends like Bruce McLaren among his friends and has played a few rounds of golf with President Gerald Ford, comedian and actor Bob Hope and legendary golfer Arnold Palmer.
Gilstrap first got into cars when he was eight years old and was plowing behind a wheel, but he said he knew he “could do better. I like to work and even now at 88-years-old I still like to work.” Over the years, Gilstrap has had as many as 50 cars at a single time, with over 200 vehicles passing through his hands in the last few years. “I always took care of the cars and made sure they were in good order because I didn’t want a car that didn’t start and run,” Gilstrap said, adding “I started off with classic cars, but they don’t do that. So after a while, I started getting into the exotic cars.”
Each vehicle in the collection was hand-picked by Gilstrap and thoroughly researched. Now, his incredible collection of vehicles is set to take center stage. At the 2025 Scottsdale Auction, 23 of Gilstrap’s prized vehicles will cross the world-famous auction block with No Reserve, Jan. 18-26 at WestWorld.
Lamborghini Legends: The Thrilling Tale of Gilstrap’s Exquisite Aventadors
Lamborghini isn’t just a brand—it’s a pulse-pounding experience, a symphony of performance and daring design that challenges every norm and fuels the soul. With engines that roar like thunder and technology that pushes boundaries, each Lamborghini is a statement of speed, luxury, and extravagance. At the heart of Gilstrap’s extraordinary collection are two show-stopping machines: a 2022 Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae (Lot #1383) and a 2015 Aventador (Lot #1371).
The 2022 Aventador, bathed in the stunning Viola Pearl Effect, is eye catching. It’s not just any Ultimae—this is one of the 350 coupes built for the model’s final year. A fitting farewell to the Aventador’s legacy, this limited edition is part of a rare 600-unit run, including 250 roadsters. It marks the end of an era, as it’s the last Aventador to feature Lamborghini’s legendary naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine.
Under the hood, this bull generates an awe-inspiring 780 horsepower and 531 ft/lbs of torque, harnessed by a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system. Weighing in at just the right balance of power and agility, the Ultimae propels from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 2.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 221 mph. The exterior is an absolute work of art, with bold black brake calipers contrasting against the sleek Leirion forged wheels—20-inches up front and 21-inches in the rear. The Ultimae Full Livery package, a glossy carbon roof, and gleaming air components and mirror housings complete the aggressive yet refined look.
Inside, it’s all about luxury and innovation with a Lamborghini Sensonum sound system and even a convenient garage-door opener, proving that performance and convenience can coexist in perfect harmony.
LOT #1371 – 2015 LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR – NO RESERVE
The 2015 Aventador is another triumph in Gilstrap’s collection, one that took years of determination to acquire. Powered by a beastly 6.5-liter V12, this stunning yellow roadster first caught Gilstrap’s eye during a weekend getaway with his close friend, Dean Spanos, the owner of the NFL’s Chargers. The moment Gilstrap laid eyes on its aerodynamic lines and the stunning yellow leather interior, he was hooked. Though he couldn’t make it his at the time, that initial spark turned into a relentless pursuit, culminating in the car’s acquisition in Florida in 2023.
Gilstrap’s Lamborghinis are more than just cars—they’re a testament to a deep connection to Lamborghini’s unparalleled craftsmanship, bold innovation, and the raw passion that flows through every engine. From the groundbreaking 2022 Aventador Ultimae, a final tribute to the naturally aspirated V12, to the 2015 Aventador roadster, a dream realized after years of pursuit, these vehicles are a thrilling blend of performance, artistry, and personal journey.
Racing Heritage and Engineering Excellence: Gilstrap’s McLaren Legacy
LOT #1374.1 – 2022 MCLAREN 765LT SPIDER – NO RESERVE
In the late 1960s, the Can-Am Challenge Cup was more than just a race—it was a battleground for the world’s fastest, most innovative machines. With McLarens, Porsches, Chaparrals, and Lolas dominating the series, speed and power knew no bounds. It was here that Gilstrap forged lasting friendships with racing icons like Bruce McLaren, Peter Revson, and Boyd Jefferies. A transformative ride in a Can-Am car with Revson cemented his passion for motorsports, inspiring him to master the art of timing and precision, earning the moniker “The Stopwatch.” This deep connection to McLaren’s heritage makes the brand a cornerstone of his collection.
This January, Gilstrap will part with two exceptional McLaren models: his 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider and the striking yellow 2024 McLaren 750S Spider.
The 2022 McLaren 765LT (Lot #1374.1), the track-focused variant of the legendary 720S, made its debut in 2020, blending razor-sharp performance with luxury that defies expectations. Built on McLaren’s lightweight carbon-fiber Monocage II structure, the 765LT accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, with a blistering top speed of 205 mph. Powered by a 765-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine and paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, it delivers race-bred power and agility. Aerodynamic enhancements like an extended front splitter, active rear wing, and cool-air intakes ensure it cuts through the air with precision, while the retractable hardtop roof lets drivers experience the thrill of open-air driving.
The Volcano Yellow 765LT is gorgeous and loaded with over 30 factory options and 13 McLaren Special Operations (MSO) upgrades, bringing the total to $125,000 above the base MSRP of $382,500. Standout features include a carbon-fiber aero package, electrochromic roof, MSO-branded brake calipers, and a sleek black Alcantara interior with Volcano Yellow accents. Every inch of this car is meticulously crafted, showcasing McLaren’s elite engineering and attention to detail.
LOT #1371.1 – 2024 MCLAREN 750S SPIDER – NO RESERVE
The 2024 McLaren 750S (Lot #1371.1) takes the McLaren experience to the next level, building on the acclaimed 720S with more power, sharper handling, and advanced technology. With 740 horsepower and 590 ft/lbs of torque from its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, the 750S rockets from 0-60 mph in an astonishing 2.3 seconds, with a top speed of 206 mph. Weighing 66 pounds less than its predecessor, it boasts a class-leading power-to-weight ratio, complemented by refined aerodynamics and a new suspension system that delivers even sharper handling.
Gilstrap’s collection is a tribute to McLaren’s storied legacy, blending a personal connection to motorsport history with the very best of modern engineering. The 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider and the 2024 McLaren 750S Spider are not just machines—they are the pinnacle of innovation, speed, and precision.
Ferrari’s Finest: A Collection of Iconic Supercars
LOT #1373.1 – 2022 FERRARI SF90 STRADALE – NO RESERVE
When Gilstrap began riding horses, he had never been on a horse in his life – not counting the mule he worked with a plow. His girlfriend at the time had him take riding lessons which led to Gilstrap becoming a professional polo player. “When I do something, I like to really give it my all. I wear myself out and that’s how I ended up with 27 broken bones,” he said. Gilstrap added that he always liked being out there and having fun, “I always liked having excitement in my life.”
For many, Ferrari transcends the status of a mere car brand—it’s a symbol of passion, performance, and prestige. As Gilstrap puts it, “everybody likes Ferrari because it’s got such a powerful and recognizable name.” The prancing horse logo is synonymous with speed, exclusivity, and the pinnacle of automotive excellence, evoking dreams of roaring engines and the thrill of the racetrack. At the 2025 Scottsdale Auction, Gilstrap will be offering a collection of eight Ferraris, each one a testament to Ferrari’s legacy and its unwavering commitment to precision and performance.
The crown jewel of this lineup is the 2022 Ferrari SF90 Stradale (Lot #1373.1), a cutting-edge plug-in hybrid celebrating Ferrari’s 90th anniversary. This powerhouse combines a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 769 horsepower with three electric motors contributing 217 horsepower, delivering a total of 986 horsepower and 590 ft/lbs of torque. Ferrari’s first mid-engine all-wheel-drive model, the SF90 is powered by an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and features F1-Trac traction control. With a 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph, the SF90 Stradale exemplifies Ferrari’s pursuit of extreme performance. Finished in Rosso Corsa and equipped with over $60,000 in carbon fiber options, this 1,655-mile example had an MSRP of $647,355.
LOT #1372 – 2023 FERRARI 296 GTB – NO RESERVE
The 2023 Ferrari 296 GTB (Lot #1372) is Ferrari’s first 6-cylinder road car since the legendary Dino of 1969-74, marking a significant shift in Ferrari’s hybrid technology. Powered by a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 654 horsepower, augmented by an electric drive system for a total of 830 horsepower, the 296 offers a 0-62 mph time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 mph. With an electric-only range of 16 miles, it blends efficiency with exhilarating performance. Finished in Rosso Corsa, this 2023 model features $60,000 in factory options, including extensive carbon fiber details and striking red brake calipers.
LOT #1372.1 – 2022 FERRARI F8 SPIDER – NO RESERVE
Ferrari’s iconic V8 legacy continues with the 2022 Ferrari F8 Spider model (Lot #1372.1), powered by a 710-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine. Capable of 0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph, the F8 Spider delivers the perfect blend of road performance and racing engineering. The retractable hardtop offers open-air thrills in just 14 seconds, while advanced features like Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer, magnetorheological suspension, and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes ensure superior handling. The 2022 F8 Spider includes over $70,000 in factory options, including a sport exhaust and Apple CarPlay.
LOT #1373 – 2018 FERRARI 488 GTB 70TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION – NO RESERVE
The 2018 Ferrari 488 GTB continues the Ferrari tradition of exhilarating V8 performance. With a 661-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 205 mph. This collection features two 488 GTBs, including a “1 of 1” example inspired by the 1958 250 GT Berlinetta, which was crafted through Ferrari’s Tailor Made program. The Tailor Made 488 also celebrates Ferrari’s 70th anniversary. The bespoke 488 GTB boasts a $42,776 Tailor Made package, magnetic damping, carbon ceramic brakes, and a Premium HiFi system. The Rosso Corsa 488 GTB (Lot #1328.1) is equipped with a carbon-fiber Racing Package, including accents on the rear air ducts, fog lamps, and side air splitters.
LOT #1374 – 2022 FERRARI 812 GTS – NO RESERVE
For a thrilling open-top experience, the 2022 Ferrari 812 GTS (Lot #1374) is the epitome of Ferrari’s V12-powered performance. Equipped with a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 789 horsepower, the 812 GTS delivers a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of over 211 mph. Its aggressive styling, seamless 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and advanced suspension system ensure that the 812 GTS is as precise as it is exhilarating.
LOT #1058.1 – 2008 FERRARI F430 SPIDER – NO RESERVE
The 2008 Ferrari F430 Spider (Lot #1058.1), the open-air variant of the F430, offers a 4.3-liter V8 engine delivering 483 horsepower, a quick-shifting Magneti Marelli F1 paddle-shift gearbox, and a stunning Rosso Corsa exterior. This 5,668-mile example is equipped with over $34,000 in options, including Daytona-style seats, carbon fiber accents and red brake calipers, ensuring a thrilling drive paired with luxury and performance.
With these eight exceptional Ferraris, Gilstrap’s collection celebrates Ferrari’s unparalleled legacy of innovation, performance, and artistry. Each car, with its stunning design and performance capabilities, reflects Ferrari’s enduring influence as the ultimate symbol of automotive excellence.
Timeless Performance: Gilstrap’s Modern Collectibles
LOT #1327 – 2021 PORSCHE 911 TURBO – NO RESERVE
Gilstrap’s first car was a 1938 Dodge that didn’t run, which he traded his bicycle to get. “I worked on that Dodge for a long time,” Gilstrap said. He added that after it was running he was approached to use it to run moonshine because he was still just a child and everyone knew the police wouldn’t pursue him. “I didn’t do that very long,” he said, adding that he always knew he “didn’t want to be a cotton picker and didn’t want to be at those little levels in life.” At this early age, Gilstrap learned if you’re kind to the people around you, you can advance in most anything especially if you are working hard. “I always had good people around me and I found out I was pretty good at most things, not great at anything, but pretty good at most things.”
The Gilstrap Collection not only showcases some of the most prestigious supercars but also includes a curated selection of modern collectibles. Among these, Porsche models hold a special place, with Gilstrap recalling that a Porsche was his first foray into the world of exotic cars. In January, two notable Porsche models from the collection will be offered: a 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo and a 1998 Porsche 911 Carrera 2S.
The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo (Lot #1327), an embodiment of the 992-series’ blend of power and luxury, is powered by a 572-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter flat-6 engine, mated to an 8-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive. This example, finished in Carrera White with a black leather interior, features the PASM Sport Suspension, rear-axle steering, and a host of luxury upgrades like adaptive sport seats, Bose audio, Apple CarPlay, and lane change assist. The car also boasts custom forged wheels, a Stage 2 ECU tune, Innotech performance exhaust and visual upgrades.
LOT #1058 – 1998 PORSCHE CARRERA – NO RESERVE
The 1998 Porsche 911 Carrera 2S (L0t #1058), a highly sought-after model in the final year of the iconic air-cooled 993-series, offers a more classic driving experience. Powered by a 282-horsepower, air-cooled flat-6 engine and equipped with a Tiptronic 4-speed automatic transmission, this model is known for its timeless design and performance. Finished in Arena Red with a gray leather interior, the car features the wider “Turbo-look” body and rear-wheel drive, with Turbo Twist wheels and classic comforts like air conditioning and a CD player. With 18-inch wheels, it retains its understated elegance while delivering a thrilling driving experience.
Alongside these Porsches, the collection also includes other modern automotive gems such as a 2022 Bentley Continental GT V8 Convertible (Lot #1328), finished in a striking Mulliner Solid and Metallic Candy Red paint; a 2013 Chevrolet Corvette (Lot #1327.1) with a custom carbon-fiber body designed to resemble a 1963 Corvette; a 2005 BMW M3; and a 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
The diversity and quality of the Gilstrap Collection highlight the owner’s discerning taste and passion for both modern performance and timeless automotive craftsmanship. Whether showcasing the cutting-edge technology of today’s supercars or the classic appeal of air-cooled Porsche models, Gilstrap’s collection is a testament to the enduring allure of the automobile.
Each car in his collection tells a story of timeless design and performance, celebrating Gilstrap’s lifelong love of cars and the stories they have inspired throughout his life.
Written by Nicole Ellan James