Only rarely is an Avions-Voisin offered for sale, thus the Bonhams & Butterfields affair on August 15 at the Quail in Carmel should be nothing less than awe-inspiring. On that day an extraordinary collection representing one of every Voisin ever made will be up for auction. Additionally, two automobiles from the "M. Collection" of France, a coupe and cabriolet, are one-offs. Gabriel Voison was a pioneering aeronautics engineer whose aircraft were noted for their outstanding performance. When Voisin turned to the manufacture of automobiles his cars were equally unique. Several art deco influences later appeared, including door handles designed by legendary French architect Le Corbusier. Said Bonhams motoring specialist Philip Kantor, "With an appreciation for art, speed, and all things aeronautical, Gabriel Voisin's creations were ahead of their time. Not only are they the epitome of period luxury but performance as well, since many went on to set speed records." The collection also includes the actual Voisin movie prop car featured in the film Sahara, starring Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz. Several restored Voisins appeared together at the 2006 Pebble Beach Concours, seen above.

[Photo: Philip Powell]