THE most unlikely things come up on ebay, the online auction site. Last month a 1944 P-51D Mustang specially modified for the annual Reno Air Races, was offered but failed to reach its reserve price. 'Dago Red', the name of the aircraft, has a tuned 1650 cubic inch Merlin V12 engine said to produce more than 4000hp and capable of powering the 9500lb aircraft to a record of 517mph over a 15km course. It's also set a race record at Reno of 507mph, winning the top race on its first time at the event.

Thrown in with the aircraft was a 48ft trailer, 29ft RV motorhome, generator, a ‘stock’ R-R Merlin engine, aircraft tug, engine stands, prop stand and various tools and parts. The auction closed on 10 October with a highest bid of $1.2 million, from an overly optimistic bidder hiding behind the username gotcha4sure’. he reserve was said o be $1.5 million.