Well, that's just the opposite of what all the indicators show. The high end cars have fallen dramatically. The base level cars have been stronger. Several standard GTO's went across the block at B-J for over $50K, as well a few low mileage late 70's Trans Am's that pulled over $50K, some SS396 Chevelles did very well. The Hemi cars tanked, the Shelbys tanked, the COPO's tanked.
As for quality, I think every year people complain about the quality of the cars at auctions. The difference now is that in previous years, we were always stunned how much people paid for those cars. This year, people are using the "low quality, little documentation" excuse as to why they're selling lower.
Excellent article in the recent Muscle Car Review as to the state of the collector car market, and they also state that high end cars have fallen, and the $50K "base model" cars are up.
I'm also curious anbout the "W-30 convertible in need of a restoration". Wasn't this the dark blue/white top car that just went through a $100,000 total restoration? The photos on the website show an immaculate undercarriage, and states that restoration was performed under the scrutiny of OCA officials.