Correct me if I am wrong, but the salvage titles are because most of the cars were towed from someones driveway or an illegally parked space so they don't have keys. You have to figure many of the cars were at least driven to where they got towed so they are drivable.
The Nov 15 auction was interesting. A lot of vehicles went for under $1000. There was a torched newer avalanche with a good engine that went for not much. Some real young kid got this Tahoe with big rims and a system for dirt cheap. A VW bug went for a bargain.. the winner could have easily turned around and sold it for 1-2k more.
Some tips: bring cash. and you have a day or so to get the car off the lot. So be prepared to jump-start the battery (or bring one) and be willing to go to a dealer to get a key.
the auctions move so quickly you can easily pick up a good deal.