To millions of people, Jay Leno is perhaps best known as a comedian and host of NBC’s the Tonight Show, but in automotive circles he’s also recognized as a serious car enthusiast and collector, with a warehouse full of 200 interesting vehicles, including 100 cars that are regularly serviced and driven.

The collection includes a tremendous variety of vehicles, ranging from 1906 and 1922 Stanley Steamers to a custom built 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado, a one of a kind ‘Tank Car’ and the 1955 Buick he’s owned since 1972. Leno is also an avid supporter of the collector car hobby and in recognition of his dedication, will be presented with the Lee Iacocca Award on stage  after his performance at next year’s running of the Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance on Feburary 26, 2011. Guests attending the gala will have an opportunity  to meet and have their photo taken with Leno, along with the Legends of Indy Award winners, which will also be a highlight of the event.

[Source: Autoweek]

The very first Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI was auctioned off at the Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance yesterday for a cool half a million dollars, with all of the proceeds going to the Boys & Girls Clubs. With a retail value of $180,000, the 535hp exotic fetched more than double its value.

“This was an opportunity to be crowned the first owner in the United States of a stunning Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro,” said Rick Case, Founder of the Boca Raton Concours d’ Elegance. “The winning bidder even received an official certificate of authenticity verifying that this particular 2010 Audi R8 V10 is the first in the country.”

“The live and silent auctions at the Gala always feature amazing items,” said James E. McDonnell IV, Boca Raton Concours d’ Elegance Event Chairman. “But this year we have truly topped the charts. In fact, the auction line-up has made a mark in history by offering one of the most sought after vehicles in the country to guests.”

Audi of America R8 Product Manager Chas Murphy was so impressed with the bidding that he immediately offered a second R8 V10, which also sold that evening.

Impressively, the R8 fetched significant more than a Ferrari California that was auctioned off as well. The California, retailing for $225,000, fetched $350,000. Stuart Hayim, owner of Ferrari-Maserati of Fort Lauderdale arranged for the California to be auctioned off with proceeds from that sale also benefitting the Boys & Girls Clubs.

Other auction items included a dinner for four with David Letterman and Bobby Rahal, which fetched $100,000. Dinner with Roger Penske, his family and driving team, to take place at the Indianapolis 500, was also auction off. Howie Mandel was even on hand, providing the entertainment.

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…