Steve McQueen's Ferrari Set for Auction in Weeklong Monterey Peninsula Automotive Extravaganza

Pebble Beach Golf Links to Spyglass Hill, golf still rules on the famed Monterey Peninsula. But automotive enthusiasts will have a dozen good reasons to disagree next week.

A diverse selection of auto-related activities - displays of opulent classic cars to muscle car memorabilia - will be showcased Aug. 14-19 at various venues throughout the Monterey Peninsula.

The most renowned event, the Concours d'Elegance at Pebble Beach, will again provide the week's concluding pinnacle highlight Sunday. It's often described as "automotive works of art on display."

Toss in vintage Indy car racing at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca to Christie's auction days at Monterey Jet Center where Steve McQueen's Ferrari Lusso will be "on the block" and any automotive enthusiast will be close to nirvana.

Here's a synopsis of the automotive events Aug. 14-19 on the Monterey Peninsula:

Tuesday, Aug. 14

* To begin the week, the famous Ocean Ave. in Carmel will be closed for the day as more than 100 vehicles, dating from 1946-1971, will be on display. Many small businesses get into the spirit of the occasion with a auto-themed window decor competition called "Concours in the Windows." Admission: Free. Telephone: (831-372-9311) Web site: www.mcallmotorsports.com.

Tuesday-Wednesday, Aug. 14-15

* Exhibits featuring vintage posters and signs, auto-themed clothes and books from an estimated 50 vendors will for sale at the Embassy Suites hotel in Seaside. Admission $10. Telephone: (831-659-5335; Web site: www.automobiliamonterey.com.

Wednesday, Aug. 15

* An invitation-only gathering of an expected 1,000, hosted by Gordon McCall, purveyor of Christie's auction, will commence several days of rare car buying at the Monterey Airport. Telephone: (831-372-9311); Web site: www.mccallmotorsports.com.

Thursday, Aug. 16