In a joint effort with IVM Engineering Group of Germany, Reeves Callaway set out to create an ultra-high-performance version of the fifth generation C5 Corvette to compete in the GT2 racing class at Le Mans. The result was the Callaway C12, a carbon-Kevlar bodied supercar featuring a unique coilover suspension, adjustable dampers, massive brakes, and a specially tuned 5.7L V8 from Callaway’s family of SuperNatural engines. The C12.R racing car went on to take class pole position at Le Mans in 2001, while a series of 25 C12 road cars were built for high-profile customers the likes of Dale Earnhardt Jr., Rick Hendrick, and Otis Chandler. Offered here is car #12, the very first Callaway C12 Cabriolet and served as the promotional vehicle for the 1999 New York and Detroit Auto Shows. It was originally owned by Tommy Mottola, former Chairman & CEO of Sony Music Entertainment, and has been part of the current owner’s collection since 2003. An incredibly rare and exclusive American sports car, this C12 Cabriolet is now being offered for auction with just over 4,500 miles showing on the odometer.
Assembled by hand at Callaway’s facility in Leingarten, Germany, the bodywork of the C12 was designed by Paul Deutschman in conjunction with IVM Engineering and consist of a carbon-Kevlar matrix. The C12’s body is a full two meters wide to take advantage of Le Mans dimensional regulations and was aerodynamically optimized for speeds above 200 MPH with countless hours spent in computer simulations. This C12 comes finished in specialty Silver paint which was ordered at an additional cost of $8,400 when new. The Cabriolet option with manual soft-top and integrated headrests also tacked on another $19,800, contributing towards the car’s staggering $178,700 original MSRP. The Azev wheels measure 10.5” wide and come dressed in Pirelli P Zero tires sized 295/30 ZR 19. Additional images are provided in the gallery along with a clean CARFAX report.
This C12 was ordered with the optional Interior Leather Group, supplying premium red and black Connolly hides and Wilton Wool carpeting. This $12,500 package also adds a two-tone leather steering wheel and two-tone door panels as well as a leather-covered lower dashboard, console cover, inner sill, and B-pillars. The Konig sports seats are electrically adjustable and feature embroidered logos as well as passthroughs for racing harnesses. Unique features of the C12 include carbon fiber door sills, IVM Engineering instrument dials, and a numbered placard ahead of the shifter reading “Callaway C12, Number 012”. Standard equipment includes dual airbags, an onboard computer, automatic climate control, and heated exterior mirrors. The original Delco AM/FM CD-radio remains in place.
The 5.7L Callaway SuperNatural V8 engine is based in the Corvette LS1 and uses a Callaway optimized crank, forged connecting rods, lightweight foged aluminum pistons, proprietary cams, and CNC-machined aluminum heads. An output of up to 440 HP at 6,500 RPM is sent to the rear wheels by way of a 6-speed manual transaxle with a limited slip differential. Stopping power comes from specially designed four-piston forged aluminum Alcon calipers paired with 355mm slotted rotors front and rear. The specially developed coilover suspension uses double A-arms as well as adjustable dampers on both axles. Callaway’s in-house tests yielded acceleration from 0-60 MPH in 4.2 seconds and an estimated top speed of up to 200 MPH.
This sale will include some associated literature, featured publications, and a clean title. The opportunity to own a Callaway C12 is incredibly elusive, do not miss the chance to add the very first Cabriolet example to your collection.
Comments (25)
Sold for $175,000
Ouch!
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I would like to take a moment to underscore the special significance of this Callaway C 12. As you can see from the chain of custody, some very significant owners participated in this car ’s provenance. As a result, the car has had very good care and has had very little actual road use. all C 12s are special. And in one particular way this car is exceptional. Note that in the top down position the headrests extend onto the convertible deck. In the top up position, there is a removable section from the headrests that allows the convertible top to reseal on the convertible deck. A clever bit of engineering. Unique to only two of the 25C 12s. I have to confess this is one of my favorite C 12s
Remember these well. Great car. Reeves built a car for me back in the 80’s. Fun times. GLWS
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Hello auto enthusiasts , this is a very special car if you have any questions I will do my best to answer , good luck on your bid .
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