COYS TO HOST UNMISSABLE CLASSIC CAR FUELLED WEEKEND AT THE GROUNDS OF BLENHEIM PALACE

COYS TO HOST UNMISSABLE CLASSIC CAR FUELLED WEEKEND AT THE GROUNDS OF BLENHEIM PALACE

2016 McLaren MSO HSwhich is estimated to make between £600,000 and £700,000 at COYS Blenheim Palace auction on Saturday 29th June.

Celebrity items to go under the hammer as three important automotive events come together for a showstopper weekend.

International auctioneers COYS are kicking off the automotive calendar this summer against the backdrop of Blenheim Palace by hosting an unmissable weekend of dual auction extravaganza as well as a Concours judged by classic car TV personality, Alex Riley.

Enthusiasts and collectors from around the globe are set to attend Blenheim Palace weekend as demand in the classic car market was shown by COYS previous 100% sale rate auction at Chiswick House in May.

Important collectors’ items once owned by Legends, Rock Stars, and Sports Personalities will be among the awe-inspiring lots for sale at auction. A car famous in its own right and expected to sell for between an estimated £600,000 and £700,000 is a 1 of 7 Special Edition 2016 McLaren MSO HS competition inspired model in Right Hand Drive – the only finished in Heritage Green Livery. This ultra-rare car embodies McLaren’s capabilities, being the son of the 90s modern supercar legend, the McLaren F1.

The sale will also feature a Range Rover once owned by David Beckham. The 2007 4.2-litre Supercharged Sport with Kahn styling and a uniquely customised interior would have cost around £200,000 when new (including modifications), and estimates suggest it will go for £20,000 to £30,000.

Other important cars on offer include Sir Elton John’s previous Maserati Quattroporte, a car that so clearly has been an important catalyst for sporting saloons today. The rocket car for a rocket man is estimated to fetch £25,000 to £30,000.

On the morning of Saturday 29th June, COYS will be dropping the hammer on the first sale of the day, a personal item from the private collection of the late Hugh Taylor. This will be followed by his many other no reserve items including auto memorabilia, motoring art, awards and trophies, aeronautical components, and numerous original mechanical components typical to sporting marques of the last century.

It will be a one-off moment to access and acquire items from the collection of a gentleman who is acknowledged to have been one of the greatest collectors of the modern era. Donations of the auction proceeds will be made to the Alzheimer's Society, and the entire collection will be offered at No Reserve.

Adjacent to the auction is the long-established Concours d'Elegance which displays a broad selection of some of the finest and most important classic motor cars in the country such as the rare Ferrari 550 Zagato, one of just a handful in the world. The Concours d'Elegance has seen a wide array of celebrity guest judges in the past and this year we will see Alex Riley taking the stage. Mr Riley is a star on the BBC's The One Show, The Classic Car Show on Channel 5, and currently appears on your screens on The Car Years on ITV.

COYS’ Blenheim Palace auction takes place on Saturday 29th June 2019 at 10am at Blenheim Palace Woodstock OX20 1PP UK. Viewing is available Friday 28th June from 9:00am to 6:00pm and on the day of the sale from 9:00am to start of sale.

Address: Blenheim Palace Woodstock OX20 1PP UK

Time: 10:00 AM (Collectors Items) - 2:00PM (Motor Cars)

Viewing: Friday 28th June from 9.00am to 6.00pm

On the day of the sale from 9.00am to start of sale

FABULOUS FERRARIS OUT IN FORCE AT SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

FABULOUS FERRARIS OUT IN FORCE AT SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

2018 Ferrari California T '70th Anniversary

Silverstone Auctions sale is really hotting up with an amazing selection of rare and high-performance Ferraris being offered along with related automobilia including the stunning “Il Fascino Ferrari” Art Edition from Taschen Books.

Taking place at the historic Silverstone Classic, this flagship sale is offering Ferraris to suit all enthusiasts of the marque. The cars being offered are all highly sought after.

The 2018 Ferrari California T “70th Anniversary” Edition is a remarkable tailor-made car made to celebrate a moment in Ferrari history. 70 different liveries were created making this car 1 of 1 and was inspired by the 1987 Ferrari F40 which was driven to an Italian GT championship victory in 1993 which went onto become the most successful F40 in history.

Being the only car finished in these colours, Livery number 54, makes this very desirable. Estimated at £255,000 to £285,000 with 78 delivery miles and in right-hand drive, this is a true limited edition, and one very special car.

Adam Rutter Silverstone Auctions consigner commented: "This really is a unique opportunity to own a limited- edition Ferrari with delivery mileage and celebrating 70 years of the Prancing Horse."

Also on offer are two more Ferraris, separated by 10 years. The 1979 308 GT4 is a right-hand drive car which has the honour of having the Ferrari Classiche certification, confirming the authenticity of the car. Owned by the current vendor since 1985 this car has been looked after the whole time by Graypaul Ferrari, one of the few Officiana authorised dealers. Estimated at £40,000 to £50,000 this is easily one of the best 308 GT4s currently available. With 62,000 miles, maintained to the highest standards and owned by the current vendor for 34 years, this is undoubtedly a Best of Breed.

Ten years on we have a concours winning 1989 Ferrari 328 GTS. Estimated at £75,000 to £85,000 this is a well- regarded car in Ferrari circles and has just 31,584 miles and an extensive history file. It has been in the current ownership since 2011 and after meticulous maintenance, went on to win the 2016 Ferrari Owners Club Concours. The sale includes the trophies and certificates.

Operated by Ferrari since 1993 the Challenge series saw Ferrari produce a number of racing cars for customer motorsport. Silverstone Auctions has three versions of the Challenge cars for sale at their forthcoming auction, a 360, 430 and this 458 which are all very rare and pretty amazing cars.

This particular car was prepared by the factory to full European Challenge specification from new and then run and prepared by FF Corse, Ferrari specialists achieving a number of race wins. This car has been upgraded by FF Corse with their GTC aero pack and has been fitted with a V-BOX Lite video recording system. With the seat belts in date until January 2020 and supplied with two sets of wheels and tyres, this is a race winning car for an estimate of £100,000 to £120,000, alternatively it would make an incredible track day car.

Harry Whale auction manager for Silverstone Auctions commented: “These are some truly exceptional cars and some of the best of breed. They will undoubtably create lots of interest especially due to their rarity.”

“We have got some fabulous lots for our headline sale and we are still inviting entries.”

For all Ferrari enthusiasts the sale also includes a variety of marque related memorabilia and one specific lot which is the ultimate book for any Ferrari aficionados. The stunning Taschen Books “Il Fascino Ferrari” Art Edition, of which this is No 240 of 250 which comes still in its crate which has never been opened! The book also includes the amazing presentation stand, a sculpture evocative of the 12-cyclinder engine in hand bent chromed steel. Created by Marc Newsom this is beautiful work of art created in close collaboration with Ferrari and features exclusive content from the Ferrari archives and collectors around the world, estimated at £28,000 to £30,000.

Among the other Ferrari related automobilia is the wonderfully complete 330 GTC tool kit estimated at £10,000 to £12,000 and in superb condition. Alternatively you may need some luggage for the summer holidays to compliment your Ferrari, a six piece set of Schedoni luggage in very good condition and complete with tags and dust covers for £5,500 to £6,500.

Maybe you have a small spot at home where you could give this rare, 1 of only 500, 1:12 scale model of Phil Hill’s Ferrari 156 Dino signed and in its presentation box, complete with an additional 1:43 scale 156 and a certificate of authenticity. To complete our selection of which there are further related lots, we have the complete Ferrari Yearbook set from 1951 to 1970. Eighteen books in total spanning both road and race cars with photos and detailed information in Italian on each racing season. A must for any Ferrari enthusiast and estimated at £7,500 to £8,500.

The Silverstone Classic Auction takes place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019 offering an exclusive selection of classic cars, sports cars and supercars and automobilia. The lots can be previewed on the 26th July from 09.00 to 18.00

Silverstone Auctions are accepting cars for their Silverstone Classic auction and can be contacted on 01926 691141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car.

CCA WELCOME THE BEST OF BRITISH WITH SOME STUNNING LOTS IN AUGUST SALE

CCA WELCOME THE BEST OF BRITISH WITH SOME STUNNING LOTS IN AUGUST SALE

Classic Car Auctions sale in August is gathering pace with some amazing lots consigned and representing the Best Of British, there are a number stand out lots. 

One of those is the 1972 Rover 3.5 Coupe with just 20,403 warranted miles on the clock. Having just come out of long-term storage and now recommissioned for sale this car has been in the current ownership for the last 40 years. Estimated at £25,000 to £30,000, this is a totally original 3.5 Coupe P5B in amazing condition with its original service book, sales brochure and tool kit.

Richard Greenhalgh Senior Consigner for Classic Car Auctions commented: “Presented in Zircon Blue and with the beautiful buckskin hide, this may be one of the finest examples of its kind in existence. With an array of original items, this is a very exciting car and we are looking forward to seeing it.”

At the opposite end of the scale, a 1995 Aston Martin DB7 i6 which has had significant expenditure lavished on it to upgrade the car to fast road/competition specification is also consigned to the sale. Estimated at £16,000 to £20,000 this is a very smart Aston Martin and now with the potential for use in club motorsport with the addition of the necessary extras. With just 59,000 miles and only 1,000 since the rebuild, this is a lovely dual-purpose Aston Martin.

The Daimler SP250, which to many is referred to as the Dart, despite Daimler being forced to drop the name after being threatened with legal action by Chryslers Dodge division, is a real head turner. The August sale sees a wonderfully restored 1961 SP250 B-spec being offered. Imported from California in 2013, the car was converted to right-hand drive and had a complete bespoke body off photo documented restoration. Finished in Bentley Verdant Green with a Parchment leather interior, the car also comes with a white hardtop. This is a beautifully presented car estimated at £24,000 to £28,000.

Everyone’s favourite, the Land Rover and here we have in the sale a 1956 Series I 107 inch pick up version. This Land Rover has undergone an extensive nut and bolt restoration and from the information provided by the vendor, this car scores 130 out 135 on the CCA condition report making it a near Concours condition vehicle which is in daily use. Estimated at £18,000 to £22,000 and with a comprehensive history and details of the restoration, this could be a fabulous purchase.

Gary Dunne, Classic Car Auctions auction manager commented: “We have a plethora of British classics of all definitions consigned to the sale, including the usual mix of classics and moderns either privately owned or from collections.”

“We are delighted to be offering the Daimler SP250 which has been consigned to the sale by the owner on the recommendation of the Daimler SP250 Owners’ Club. For us this is best form of praise as we work closely with a number of car clubs.”

“We have lots more cars being confirmed and with the closing date for submissions on the 5th July there is still time to submit your car.”

Classic Car Auctions can be contacted on 01926 640888 or email enquiries@classiccarauctions.co.uk and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car, alternatively, you can also use their online Value My Classic service.

2019 Forthcoming Auctions

3rd August - CCA August Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre 5th October - CCA October Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

7th December - CCA December Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

Images1972 Rover 3.5 Coupe P5B 

1995 Aston Martin DB7 i6

1956 Land Rover Series 1 107'' Pick Up 

1961 Daimler SP250 B-spec 'Dart'

THE LATE BARRIE “WHIZZO” WILLIAMS’ COLLECTION OF CARS TO BE AUCTIONED AT SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

THE LATE BARRIE “WHIZZO” WILLIAMS’ COLLECTION OF CARS TO BE AUCTIONED AT SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

1964 Mini Cooper 1071S

The late Barrie “Whizzo” Williams’ collection is to be auctioned at the Silverstone Classic sale on the 26th to 28th July. The collection includes Whizzo’s Mini Cooper 1071S, a 1972 Lancia Fulvia, Fastakart and box trailer plus his paddock moped.

Whizzo, who passed away in September 2018, was universally known and loved throughout the motorsport fraternity and was very well known for his exuberant antics on track, to which he took great delight in talking about.

Silverstone Auctions are delighted to have been appointed to sell this lovely and very personal collection, the most famous of which is the 1964 Mini Cooper 1071S, which Barrie ordered from his hospital bed after an accident and amazingly received just three weeks later, despite the six-month waiting list.

In 1964 Barrie entered 120 MNP into its first rally, the International Welsh Rally, as a private entry, which he and his co-driver John Griffiths famously won. This was the first international win by a Cooper S and came before Paddy Hopkirk’s works win in Monte Carlo the same year.

Barrie continued to use the Mini for the next two seasons, competing in major rallies both in the British Isles and abroad. In 1965 Barrie sold the Mini to a friend, who in turned sold it to another friend.

Some years later an opportunity arose for Barrie to buy back 120 MNP, which he did and restored the car back to the 1964 Welsh Rally specification sourcing and using original components. He also spent some time sourcing all the original paperwork which had been separated during the sales, they were found complete in the loft of a previous owner’s ex-wife.

Over the years Barrie used the car regularly as a road car and often went for lunch in it to the BRDC, where he was a member.

Estimated at £60,000 to £80,000, this is a wonderful car, cherished and loved by a man who had a huge fondness for British motorsport.

Guy Lees-Milne, general manager, Silverstone Auctions commented: “Barrie was an exceptional racer who touched the lives of many people with his larger than life character. We are honoured to be auctioning this history-making and very special car at our Silverstone Classic sale.”

The second car from Whizzo’s estate is the 1972 Lancia Fulvia. This is the Series II HF and according to the history file, the previous owner had the car restored by IN Racing, a classic sports car restoration specialist, over four years with documentation confirming this. The car has been finished to an excellent standard in the correct Rosso with a black leather interior and the engine bay is almost Concours. This is a lovely example of a Series II Fulvia HF coming with an array of documentation and estimated at £30,000 to £35,000.

The next lot from Barrie’s collection and something even more personal is his Fastakart and box trailer being offered at No Reserve. The business was founded by Barrie’s father in Bromyard in the very late 1950s and proved to be a very successful kart when up against the other British and American designs. His flexible tea-tray design mated to a Villiers engine was to prove far superior and with Barrie as the works driver. This 1961 kart is fitted with the Villiers 197cc engine and gearbox and also comes with a history file including a number of family photos.

The final lot from the collection is Barrie’s paddock bike, a 2007 Gilera Stalker which he used to get around and chat to so many people. This is also being offered at No Reserve.

Don't just listen to us, listen to the man himself. See the video below. Video credit courtesy of Hagerty Insurance https://www.youtube.com/embed/SWtiHXUc5Ys?autoplay=1

The Silverstone Classic Auction takes place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019 offering an exclusive selection of classic cars, sports cars and supercars and automobilia. The lots can be previewed on the 26th of July from 09.00 to 18.00

Silverstone Auctions are accepting cars for their Silverstone Classic auction and can be contacted on 01926 691141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car.

2019 Forthcoming Auctions

27th & 28th July The Silverstone Classic Sale – Silverstone

21st September A Sale Of Ferraris - Dallas Burston Polo Club

22nd September The Porsche Sale - Dallas Burston Polo Club

9th & 10th November NEC Classic Motor Show Sale - NEC Birmingham

RARE AND EXCLUSIVE CARS TO FEATURE IN SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

RARE AND EXCLUSIVE CARS TO FEATURE IN SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

Silverstone Auctions sale on the 26th to 28th July is set to feature four very special lots among the entries already consigned.

The sale which takes place at the Silverstone Classic race meeting will feature some very well-known models with superb provenance and rarity, with limited build being the united theme.

The auction already features one Group B rarity, the never rallied Metro 6R4 and to spice the sale up further, a Renault 5 Turbo 2 Evolution homologation has now been consigned. 1 of 200 cars built as required to fulfil the requirements to go rallying and take on the likes of the Metro 6R4 and Lancias.

Having just recently been imported to the UK from France, this 1985 Renault 5 Turbo 2 is the 8221 variant and number 133 of 200 built to allow for the official homologation of the Maxi 5 to compete in Group B rallying. It came with a capacity increase to 180bhp and an alloy roof and doors to comply with the forthcoming rallying regulations. There is some known history to this car, it was delivered new to a Renault dealer in Montlhery and is fitted with the very rare, but magnificent Turbo 1 seats, which are considered far better and a very desirable upgrade (the original T2 seats are also included). This is a left-hand drive car which has its NOVA certificate and is currently awaiting a UK registration number. The car has recently had the engine rebuilt and serviced and also undergone a thorough inspection by Renault 5 Turbo specialist, Olly Melliard, whose has produced a full report to accompany the car. Estimated at £75,000 to £85,000, but with further research on this R5 Turbo’s history, its value could only increase.

The Maserati Bora was designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro as a mid-engine grand tourer bringing sophistication to the mid-engine platform. Of the 530 Boras built from 1971 to 1979, just 42 right-hand drive cars were fitted with the 4.7 litre V8 engine and this particular car is one of those very rare models. Presented in Rosso Fuoco this fabulous car has been part of a Swiss collection for many years and is now being offered for sale in original and unrestored condition for an estimated £125,000 to £175,000.

Harry Whale auction manager for Silverstone Auctions commented: “We are very excited to offer these cars at our flagship sale at the Silverstone Classic in just over four weeks. The Renault 5 Turbo 2 will certainly attract interest as Group B rallying and anything to do with it has a strong following. The E-Type is a very special car for Jaguar enthusiasts, as very few of these commemorative editions have come to market.”

The Jaguar E-Type has always been considered one of the most desirable British sports cars and to commemorate the end of production in 1974 for the Series 3, they built 50 final editions of the V12 roadster with only 19 fitted with a manual transmission. This particular car being offered is number 6 and out of the 50 and also one of those 19, making this an exceptionally rare and sought-after E-Type. A matching numbers car with just four keepers and coming from a significant private collection where it has resided for the last 10 years. It has had a lot of expenditure lavished on it to ensure it is presented to a high standard and estimated at £175,000 to £195,000.

Registered in July 1958, this stunning AC Aceca-Bristol is thought to be the first of 89 Bristol engined cars in right- hand drive form. The car was delivered new to Ken Rudd whose company were official suppliers of AC cars to fulfil an order from a Flying Officer before it was purchased by Graham Enfield of Camden Motors in 1966 who was to own it until 2005 when the current vendor acquired the car. It comes with a wonderfully detailed story of the vendors journey to bring the Aceca back to its former glory and become a multiple winning Concours car. The car was partially stripped in 1967 and remained that way for the next 38 years when it was rolled out of storage along with 50 boxes of original parts. The journey to restore the car then started and on Christmas day in 2014 it was driven for the first time in over 47 years and with all the small jobs being finished over the next couple of years the car won its first Concours in May 2015 and continued to do so every year. Estimated at £110,000 to £130,000, this is a fantastic matching numbers, original gearbox and chassis car, with a wonderful story.

Harry Whale continued: “All these cars are fresh to market and rare examples produced by these marques, providing a rare opportunity for prospective buyers to own a very special car.”

The Silverstone Classic Auction takes place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019 offering an exclusive selection of classic cars, sports cars and supercars and automobilia. The lots can be previewed on the 26th of July from 09.00 to 18.00

Silverstone Auctions are accepting cars for their Silverstone Classic auction and can be contacted on 01926 691141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car.

2019 Forthcoming Auctions

27th & 28th July The Silverstone Classic Sale – Silverstone

21st September A Sale Of Ferraris - Dallas Burston Polo Club

22nd September The Porsche Sale - Dallas Burston Polo Club

9th & 10th November NEC Classic Motor Show Sale - NEC Birmingham

THE CREAM OF CHANTILLY AT BONHAMS JUNE MOTOR CAR SALE

THE CREAM OF CHANTILLY

AT BONHAMS JUNE MOTOR CAR SALE

1952 Gordini Type 15S Barquette (Sport Barchetta) estimate €700,000 - €1,000,000

An ultra-rare 1952 Gordini Type 15S Barquette (Sport Barchetta), will be the cream of Chantilly as one of the top lots in Bonhams Chantilly Sale (estimate €700,000 - €1,000,000), casting its spell upon the town’s fairy tale chateau, also home to the Aga Khan, where the auction will be staged on Sunday 30 June.

The Gordini 15S, (chassis number 18), is one of just two four-cylinder engine Barchetta in the world built by the sports car manufacturer – and the only one available for the discerning collector to purchase, with the other, chassis number 20, belonging to the renowned Schlumpf Collection in France’s national motor museum in Mulhouse, which makes it unlikely to be offered for sale in the foreseeable future.

However, this motor car is not just remarkable for its rarity value, but also for its fascinating history of competing in two top motorsport series – firstly as one of only five ‘Type 11’ single-seater ‘monopostos’ built in 1947 by legendary sports car manufacturer Amédée Gordini, AKA ‘the sorcerer’, for his Grand Prix racing team and driven, among others, by the great Juan-Manuel Fangio, Jen Behra, Robert Manzon and Aldo Gordini.

In 1952 the car was transformed, by Gordini himself, into a two-seat Barchetta, known as ‘15S’, an ‘Équipe Gordini’ challenger in the legendary Le Mans 24 hours and leading sports car series. Following an extensive restoration in the early 2000s, as a patriotic act by the collector and former director of Renault Formula 1, Jean Sage, the 15S competed in the Mille Miglia, Monaco Historic and Le Mans Classic races, until 2009. For the past ten years, the 15S has been displayed in several concours. With the passing of its most recent and similarly patriotic French owner, the Barchetta is ready for a new appreciative custodian to keep the magic alive.

The Gordini will be joined on the Bonhams rostrum by a beautifully-restored example of one of the world’s most desirable automotive designs, the BMW 507 Series II Roadster, a grand tourer powered by a 3.2-litre engine. This Bavarian Belle, costing twice the price of a Jaguar XK120, was owned by the clichéd rich and famous including Elvis Presley, former Formula 1 world champion and four-time 500cc motorcycle Grand Prix world champion John Surtees, actors Alain Delon and Ursula Andress, Prince Rainier of Monaco and the Aga Khan.

Fittingly, the first owner of this 1959 Series II example was believed to be Baroness von Thyssen. The car spent its early life in Switzerland and then Germany, undergoing a comprehensive restoration in 1982. One of only 232 produced, the 507 is now rarer and arguably more desirable than its Stuttgart rival, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. Estimate €1,800,000 – 2,200,000.

1959 BMW 507 Series II Roadster estimate €1,800,000 – 2,200,000

2001 BMW Z8 Roadster

Nearly 40 years after the launch of the 507, BMW unveiled the 507’s spiritual successor, the Z07 concept. This caused such a sensation at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, that it was put into production as the Z8 Roadster. This model will be joining its ancestor at Chantilly in the form of an original and unrestored 2001 example finished in Topaz Blue, which is offered by its original owner, having covered just over 21,000kms from new. Estimate €180,000 – 240,000.

The sale, set in the grounds of the historic Chateau de Chantilly, will offer a fine selection of 40 collectors motor cars, largely representing the finest continental marques, including:

1966 Shelby Cobra 427. One of the all-time greats of classic sports fusing European chassis engineering and the ultimate expression of American V8 power, created by the legendary Carroll Shelby. This example, powered by the desirable 427ci ‘side oiler’ engine, is featured in the official Shelby registry and has continuous ownership history. Estimate €850,000 – 950,000.

1955 Alfa Romeo 1900C Super Sprint. Part of Alfa Romeo’s first all-new post-war offering, the 1900 series, the attractive three windows Sprint Coupé was designed by Carrozeria Touring, with the Super Sprint featuring a 1,975cc engine. Only 200 examples of the original 600 built are believed to survive today, including this beautifully-restored example offered in its stunning original two-tone coachwork of ‘Azzuro Verde Oceano with a dark green roof and matching interior. 

Estimate €200,000 – 300,000.

1954 Arnolt-Bristol DeLuxe Roadster. A product of a joint venture between the British manufacturer and US industrialist ‘Wacky’ Arnolt and styled by Italian design house Bertone, the DeLuxe Roadster was a successful challenger at Le Mans and Sebring. This survivor of a production run of just 130 has competed in and is eligible for the Mille Miglia Retrospective. Estimate 290,000 – 330,000.

Other highlights include:

• 1962 Citroën DS Décapotable, rare and highly-desirable ‘ashtray’ model (€170,000 – 200,000).
• 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190SL cabriolet, very early chassis number 65, possibly the earliest remaining example, with desirable bucket seats as featured in the very first cars (€90,000 – 140,000).
• 1965 Fiat 500 Elégance Beach Car, built by Carrozzeria Savio and displayed at the 1965 Turin Motor Show, a one-off which is a must-have for any beach car collection (€75,000 – 105,000).
• 1961 Alfa Romeo Giulietta SS Coupé, designed by Bertone and ordered new by one of the Bertone family ladies, with the noteworthy feature of Bertone Giulia GT door handles (which are more forgiving to nail polish!). This example is offered in stunning condition (€70,000 – 100,000).

RM AUCTIONS TO PRESENT THE MERRICK AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION AT 13TH ANNUAL HERSHEY SALE

RM AUCTIONS TO PRESENT THE MERRICK AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION
AT 13^TH ANNUAL HERSHEY SALE

OVER 100 BRASS ERA CARS AND SELECTION OF MEMORABILIA
OFFERED ENTIRELY WITHOUT RESERVE

• RM Auctions set to offer the Merrick Auto Museum Collection at Hershey auction, 10-11 October in Pennsylvania
• Offered entirely without reserve, the multi-generational family collection comprises rare early Brass, Veteran, and orphan motor cars
• The 13^th annual sale is an internationally-attended highlight of the AACA Eastern Division Fall Meet
• All lots in the Merrick Auto Museum Collection will be available at rmsothebys.com in the coming weeks

RM Auctions is delighted to announce that it will present the respected Merrick Auto Museum Collection, entirely without reserve, at its 13^th annual Hershey sale, held on Thursday 10 October - Friday, 11 October during the Antique Automobile Club of America’s (AACA) Eastern Division Fall Meet, with the Thursday evening auction dedicated to the collection. 

Jim Merrick and his son, Richard, first started their collection more than 25 years ago in Nebraska with 11 fully restored antique automobiles, officially incorporating The Merrick Auto Museum in 1992. Over the years, they transformed their small assembly of cars, with the help of grandson Russell, into a diverse collection of over 100 fascinating American Brass Era, high-wheeler, and pre-war cars spanning from 1900 to the late 1930s, alongside a wide array of memorabilia, signage, vintage motor car parts and ephemera. As avid automobile enthusiasts with a passion for both the hobby and the history of the industry, the Merrick family has extensively researched every car and piece of memorabilia they acquired, amassing a full research library.

“The Merrick Auto Museum Collection is an incredible historical work put together by multiple generations from one passionate family of enthusiasts,” says Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions, RM Sotheby's Group. “Many of these cars represent marques, models, and technology lost to time, which have been wonderfully preserved in the Merrick Collection. Overall, the Collection is a journey through the many quickly evolving stages of early motoring and will be of exceptional interest to discerning Brass Era collectors. We are honoured to present this fascinating group of cars, which will be right at home in Hershey.”

Offered publicly for the very first time, the Merrick Auto Museum Collection focuses on the early decades of motoring featuring significant pre-war cars alongside many of the rare electric, steam and gas vehicles are known today as orphan cars – built by manufacturers that have discontinued business entirely. Leading the group is a matching-numbers 1925 Duesenberg Model A Touring by Millspaugh & Irish with a three-speed sliding gear transmission, straight-eight engine and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, making it one of the first American automobiles to be so-equipped. Formerly of the Harrah Automobile Collection, chassis no. 1080 joined the Merrick Collection in 1996 – the same year it starred as the Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Club Festival poster car. Ideal for ACD and CCCA activities, this car will shine in any classic motor car collection.

An Edwardian Era highlight is the 1900 De Dion-Bouton Series E Vis- à-Vis, one of the earliest automobiles within the Merrick Collection. Dating back almost 120 years, this pioneer automobile with remarkably modern features was built in France by the most famous early names in motoring: Count Albert de Dion, George Bouton, and Charles Trépardoux. The body style is a charming vis-à-vis or “face-to-face” with the passengers seated facing the driver, who rides atop the car’s 3.5-hp engine. Typical of a French automobile, the detail is extravagant and includes decorative grillwork cut into the body in floral patterns, dramatic flared fenders, and brass “De Dion Bouton” script. This attractive car is ready and eligible for many historic tours including the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. Another Veteran standout in the Merrick lineup is the historic 1900 Rockwell Hansom Cab. A staple of New York’s cobbled streets in the early 1900s, the opportunity to own this seldom-seen “working class car” should not be passed up. 

Also sure to steal the spotlight is the 1902 Gasmobile Stanhope, the first American luxury automobile and one of the fastest road cars in the early 1900s. Built by the Automobile Company of America in New York between 1899 and 1902, Gasmobiles are a true rarity. This two-passenger Stanhope is also eligible for the esteemed London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and equipped with an impressive three-cylinder engine, producing 10 horsepower under full load. Significantly, this example was a National First Prize winner in Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) competition in 1977.

     

Additional rarities featured within the Merrick Auto Museum Collection include an important early American plug-in electric car, the 1904 Pope-Waverley Chelsea, known in period as "by far the best Electric on the market". Producing 3-hp, this runabout model interestingly houses its single electric motor in the rear of the car. The seldom-seen 1906 Queen Model E on offer is believed to be one of fewer than 15 Model E examples produced. Powered by an opposed two-cylinder engine and finished in attractive blue, the Touring-bodied automobile certainly lives up to its royal name. A rare survivor from one of Detroit’s little-known early manufacturers, this example would be an ideal car for undertaking various one- and two-cylinder tours, including HCCA events. Rounding out the highlights is an exceptional turn of the century 1906 White Model F Touring sporting handsome touring coachwork. A leading manufacturer of steam cars for the first decade of the 20th Century, the White Company of Cleveland, Ohio, is most well-known for its innovative steam-powered automobiles.

While the Merrick family is passing their prized collection on to new caretakers, they will continue to follow their passion for historical pursuits by serving as archivists and historians for Brass Era and orphaned cars. Additional information on RM Auctions’ annual Hershey sale is available at rmsothebys.com. A selection of cars from the Merrick Auto Museum Collection, including the Duesenberg Model A Phaeton, the De Dion-Bouton Series E Vis-à-Vis, the Rockwell Hansom Car and the White Model F Touring will be available for advanced viewing at RM Auctions’ upcoming Auburn Spring auction, 29 May - 1 June at the historic Auburn Auction Park in Indiana. To speak with an RM specialist or to register to bid at the Hershey sale, please call +1 519 352 4575.

FOR MORE NEWS FROM THE RM SOTHEBY’S GROUP: #RMAuctions #RMHershey

1950s SPORTS RACING LEGENDS TOP RESULTS AS RM SOTHEBY’S VILLA ERBA SALE GROSSES €19.8 MILLION

1950s SPORTS RACING LEGENDS TOP RESULTS AS
RM SOTHEBY’S VILLA ERBA SALE GROSSES €19.8 MILLION

1954 FERRARI 500 MONDIAL SPIDER AND 1957 PORSCHE 550A SPYDER STEAL THE LIMELIGHT BRINGING €3,717,500 AND €3,380,000 RESPECTIVELY

• RM Sotheby’s concludes its fifth successful sale as official auction house of the esteemed Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, 25 May at Villa Erba
• Sale totals €19,798,085 with five cars bringing more than €1,000,000
• Complete results now available at rmsothebys.com

 RM Sotheby’s, the official auction house of the esteemed Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, concluded its fifth, successful Villa Erba sale on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, grossing an impressive €19,798,085 and with five cars achieving figures in excess of €1,000,000. Bidders at the exclusive event represented no less than 30 countries, with more than 25 per cent being first-time RM Sotheby’s clientele.

Pre-sale, it was two incredible sports racing machines from the 1950s which had garnered significant attention, and on the night it was the same two cars which stole the show. The top seller was the original, matching-numbers 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Spider, chassis no. 0448 MD, the 12th of just 13 Pinin Farina Spiders built. The car boasts the extensive period racing history and is an exceptionally eligible car for historic racing and concours events. Fully restored and Ferrari Classiche certified, the car was deservedly bought for€3,717,500.

No car exemplifies the appeal of a 1950s sports racing car more than a 1957 Porsche 550A Spyder, providing exceptional usability and ultimate eligibility for historic events. The car sold at Villa Erba is one of only 40 cars made and benefits from a well-known and highly documented history. Chassis no. 550A-0121 was first delivered to Denmark in 1957 and enjoyed competition history there as well as in Africa where it went on to be sold. The car has undergone a complete, body-off restoration by leading Porsche specialists and has only covered 100km on the road since returning from the workshop. This wonderful piece of Porsche history achieved €3,380,000.

1960s Aston Martins are always desirable and none more so than the rare 1965 Aston Martin Short-Chassis Volante, which is one of the final examples of a mere 37 built. Offered after a period of long-term ownership and beautifully restored in Switzerland by renowned experts, the car is matching numbers and features a rare and desirable hardtop. It fully deserved to be the night’s third highest seller, achieving an impressive €1,805,000. The sale was notable for featuring an incredible collection of rare Zagato-bodied cars in celebration of the coachbuilder’s 100^th anniversary, and leading the group was a stunning 1955 Fiat 8V Coupé by Zagato, a car highly coveted by collectors. The car sold, chassis no. 000076, is one of 26 coupes built, and brought a worthy €1,771,250.

Augustin Sabatié-Garat, Car Specialist and the Villa Erba Auction Manager, RM Sotheby’s, says: “To achieve nearly €20 million in gross sales is a great result, and it’s a testament to the high-quality cars that were on offer at Villa Erba. We have once again demonstrated that the best 1950s sports racing cars with strong provenance remain the most highly prized collector cars in this hobby-driven market, while cars such as the Aston Martin Volante and Fiat 8V Coupe demonstrate how the appeal of timeless design and low production numbers are key factors in driving demand among enthusiasts and collectors.”

It was the absolutely stunning 1931 Bugatti Type 50 Roadster that rounded out the top five sellers on the night. This incredible supercharged, eight-cylinder engined touring car, is one of two remaining examples with original Jean Bugatti-designed factory coachwork and was offered in beautifully restored condition. With factory records including the original bill of sale, this pre-war great achieved €1,411,250.

Aside from the Fiat 8V, the other Zagato bodied cars sold extremely well in the sale; a fitting tribute in the legendary designer’s 100^thanniversary year. The 2019 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake, the 12^th of only 99 built, made €511,250; the glorious and well-restored 1966 Lancia Flaminia Super Sport 3C 2.8 made €252,500; the 1987 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, one of only 14 examples with manual transmission, made €331,250; the 1990 Ferrari 348 TB Zagato Elaborazione, the prototype example and the 1991 Geneva show car, made €218,500; and the diminutive and highly sought-after 1959 Fiat-Abarth 750 GT 'Double Bubble' by Zagato, made €103,500.

RM Sotheby’s Villa Erba Top 10 sales

1. Lot 148 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Spider €3,717,500
2. Lot 140 1957 Porsche 550A Spyder €3,380,000
3. Lot 135 1965 Aston Martin Short-Chassis Volante €1,805,000
4. Lot 125 1955 Fiat 8V Coupé €1,771,250
5. Lot 137 1931 Bugatti Type 50 Roadster €1,411,250
6. Lot 155 2016 Ferrari F12tdf €792,500
7. Lot 132 1961 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder €663,125
8. Lot 161 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC €556,250
9. Lot 120 2019 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake €511,250
10. Lot 140 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring €477,500

The RM Sotheby’s Group continues its 2019 auction calendar in Auburn, Indiana, USA, 29 May-1 June, where more than 300 collector cars and hundreds of lots of memorabilia are on offer. Further information on upcoming events, along with complete results from RM Sotheby’s 2019 Villa Erba sale, can be found at rmsothebys.com.

*Results are listed in EURO and inclusive are inclusive of buyer’s premium. Buyer’s premium is 15 per cent on all motor car lots with a final hammer price of €200,000 or less. In the event of a final Hammer Price above €200,000 on motor car lots, a Buyer’s Premium of 15 per cent applies to the first €200,000, and a Buyer’s Premium of 12.5 per cent applies to the Hammer Price above €200,000. Buyer’s premium is 20 per cent for all memorabilia/non-motor car lots.

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All event images by Diana Varga © 2019 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.