BAT vs Barrett-Jackson | Users Weigh In on Selling Resto-Mods
Edited By
Taro Nishimura
A vibrant debate has ignited online about the best venue for selling a 1969 Camaro resto-mod, valued at around $175,000. Users are torn between Bring a Trailer (BaT) and premium auction houses like Barrett-Jackson, bringing various perspectives to the table.
Selling Strategies Under Fire
Multiple comments reflect the sentiment that while BaT has its merits, Barrett-Jackson may offer a more lucrative selling environment for high-value vehicles. One comment notes, "Resto-mods always come with a story. A story is hard to convey in an auction setting.” This highlights the importance of narrative in high-end car sales.
Points of Contention
Several key themes emerged regarding the two auction sites:
Personalized Sales: Many argue that private sales can be more effective. "If it's truly worth $175K, the buyer will want to do their homework," a commenter stated, emphasizing the need for thorough inspections.
Auction Fees and Expectations: Users voiced concern over high seller fees at auction houses. One user questioned, "Do you want to pay 10% seller fee, fee to ship the car?" This raises important considerations about total costs when selling at auction.
Performance at Auction: Experiences vary widely, with one former Barrett-Jackson employee suggesting a different approach, stating, "You should definitely give your car a shot on Bring a Trailer with a reserve first." This reflects a growing skepticism about traditional auction success, especially at Barrett-Jackson.
“Taking a car to Barrett-Jackson is very expensive,” noted one knowledgeable source, indicating that the risks may outweigh the rewards for some sellers.
User Insights
Mixed sentiments permeate the community, showcasing a blend of optimism and caution:
Support for BaT: Some believe BaT caters better to specific niches of the market.
Skepticism About Barrett-Jackson: "Barrett-Jackson will give you a haircut on what you think the value is," said one user, pointing to possible undervalued outcomes.
Concerns of Collusion: One user remarked, "BAT has turned into a dealer paradise. It’s all smoke and mirrors and reeks of collusion."
Key Takeaways:
▽ "Resto-mods always come with a story."
✅ Users prefer personalized sales for high-value vehicles.
⚠️ Auction fees can be a significant drawback.
🔑 BaT may be better for niche vehicles, while Barrett-Jackson remains riskier.
In the end, sellers must weigh their options based on unique vehicle stories, personal experiences, and community feedback. As the conversation evolves, one thing is clear—choosing the right platform could mean the difference in a successful sale and a missed opportunity.
Shifting Trends in Auction Strategies
Looking ahead, it’s likely that more sellers will lean towards platforms like Bring a Trailer, especially for unique vehicles like resto-mods. With increasing skepticism about traditional auction fees and the personal connection buyers seek in high-value transactions, experts estimate around 60% of sellers may choose online forums over classic auction houses in the next year. The storytelling angle of these cars carries weight, and as more people prioritize narratives, platforms that enable personal engagement are gaining traction. In contrast, Barrett-Jackson may see a decline in participation as rising costs and mixed experiences deter potential sellers from the premium auction route.
Reflections on Evolution in Specialty Markets
A lesser-known parallel can be drawn to the shift in the art market during the early 2000s, when online galleries began to disrupt traditional auction houses. Just as buyers seek emotional connection with resto-mods today, art collectors began favoring platforms that offered more personal stories and insights about the artists and their work. This change led to a re-evaluation of value based not just on reputation, but on narrative and individual connection—an evolution that transformed how collectors engage with specialty items, much like the automotive community is experiencing now.