Black is the New Black at Barrett-Jackson New Orleans

There’s something special about black cars to some collectors. Long a color that signified luxury and formality, it never was associated as hue for performance cars until perhaps the late 1970s. Two very interesting black cars will be crossing the block at the inaugural Barrett-Jackson’s 2023 New Orleans Auction on September 28-30th.

Even if you’re one of those people who hates black cars because they’re difficult to keep clean, there’s bound to be a more palatable vehicle for you if you glance through the docket. You can also consign your own vehicle for sale so that Barrett-Jackson visitors can be distracted from the auction by your own personal transportation device. With the resources, experience, and reputation to market and sell your collector car, Barrett-Jackson has your best interest in mind.

Now, onto the black cars:

1969 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 Convertible
The car with the 400cid engine plus four-barrel carburetor and dual exhausts was in fine form for 1969, supported by novel “Youngmobile” advertising from Dr. Oldsmobile. Standard was a 350-horsepower engine (325 with automatic), with options that included force-air W32 and W30 engines, both with those nifty air scoops underneath the front bumper. And if General Motors’ edict limiting cubic inches was a problem, then Hurst came to the rescue with the 455-powered Hurst/Olds.

This 1969 4-4-2 convertible features the standard 400 backed by an automatic transmission. The glistening Ebony Black paint is complemented by optional W42 stripes on the hood plus pinstriping on the trunklid. The red interior consists of the standard buckets bisected by the optional console, N34 Custom-Sport steering wheel, AM/FM radio, power windows, and more. Best of all, the pedigree of this hairy Olds is documented thanks to GM of Canada Vintage Vehicle Services.

1960 Kaiser “IKA” Carabela Hearse
When Kaiser ceased automobile production in 1955 (along with its Willys partner), it formed a partnership with the Argentinean government. The new entity, Industrias Kaiser Argentina (IKA), produced the Jeep CJ and other Willys Jeep products like the Station Wagon, but it also built the Kaiser Manhattan for several years after importing about a thousand to the South American country. Called the Carabela, IKA produced the this captive import through 1962, the same time IKA began producing Ramblers under license.

Among the IKA Carabelas built, few are as unique as this 1960 hearse. Featuring a 190-inch wheelbase and powered by 226cid straight-six paired to a three-speed manual on the column, the Kaiser-inspired funeral car features wrap-around back glass, rear fold-down gate and 89-inch sliding casket holder with rollers. The ornate casket cover with columns and working flame-illuminated casket lights add a special touch for the final ride.