Synthesis of Benzonorcaradienes by Gold(I)-Catalyzed [4+3] Annulation

A formal [4 + 3]-annulation of vinyl arenes and diynyl propargyl esters is described. A mechanism involving cationic phosphinegold(I)-catalyzed tandem cyclopropanation/hydroarylation to produce the benzonorcaradiene products is proposed. In accord with this mechanism, the alkynyl cyclopropane can also be prepared with excellent regio- and diastereocontrol.