RECORDS SHATTERED AS CLASSIC ASTON MARTIN SPORTS CARS CHANGE HANDS FOR MILLIONS AT RM SOTHEBY’S SALE

RECORDS SHATTERED AS CLASSIC ASTON MARTIN SPORTS CARS CHANGE HANDS FOR MILLIONS AT RM SOTHEBY’S SALE

Aston Martin DB5

15 August, Monterey, USA: The ‘Evening with Aston Martin’ sale in Monterey, curated by renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s as part of their annual Monterey sale, has today seen exceptional examples of some of the brand’s most desirable sports cars change hands for millions of dollars.

This event to remember witnessed an incomparable list of the most significant Aston Martin models go under the hammer, with bidders from around the world vying for ownership of some of the jewels in the British sports car brand’s heritage crown.

The 2019 event was a new occasion for collectors, who witnessed a fascinating and diverse collection of Aston Martin-related automobilia go under the hammer in several hours of exciting and highly-charged bidding.

A highlight of the evening came as a 1965 Aston Martin James Bond DB5 – originally commissioned and used in the promotion of the James Bond film Thunderball - sold for a final price of $6,385,000 upon the fall of the auctioneer’s gavel. After receiving an initial estimate of $4,000,000-$6,000,000, tonight’s result underlines the continued popularity and admiration for this world-famous automotive and silver-screen icon and sets a new record for the most valuable DB5 at auction.

A surprise highlight of the day included a 1965 DB5 Shooting Brake which sold for a final price of $1,765,000.

Andy Palmer, President and Group CEO Aston Martin Lagonda, said: “The interest among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide underscores the enduring global appeal of this great British sports car company.

Aston Martin Lagonda has stood tall at the pinnacle of the British automotive world for over a century. Recognised today for our excellence in design, engineering, craftsmanship and style, we, of course, would not stand in this position without a rich history of iconic models that have helped shape and define what this brand means today.

Thanks to RM Sotheby’s, this event has been, without question, a highlight on the Aston Martin heritage calendar in 2019 and I, for one, look forward to seeing many more sales in the future, in partnership with our exceptional heritage division, Aston Martin Works.”

Barney Ruprecht, Car Specialist, RM Sotheby’s comments: “It was an honour to offer the iconic James Bond 007 Aston Martin DB5 alongside our partners at Aston Martin and Aston Martin Works. We are beyond thrilled with tonight’s fantastic result and proud to have set a new record for the most valuable DB5 sold at auction. Beyond this new auction record, the enormous amount of interest in the car and excitement surrounding it ahead of the auction solidifies its status as the “most famous car in the world,” along with the collector car hobby’s great respect for the Aston Martin brand.”

ENTRIES INVITED FOR BARONS’ JAGUAR HERITAGE, CLASSIC AND SPORTS CARS SALE - SANDOWN PARK, SEPTEMBER 20th

ENTRIES INVITED FOR BARONS’ JAGUAR HERITAGE, CLASSIC AND SPORTS CARS SALE - SANDOWN PARK, SEPTEMBER 20th

Entries are invited for Barons’ annual Jaguar Heritage, Classic and Sports Cars sale, at Sandown Park racecourse on Friday, September 20.

Early Jaguar entries already consigned include an absolutely immaculate and hugely collectable Opalescent silver-grey 1965 E-type Series 1 FHC with Webasto sliding roof. It has been subject to a well-documented professional restoration costing some £60,000 and including a bare metal respray. This stunning example of the most iconic 1960s sports car carries a guide price of £80,000-£95,000.

Non-Jaguar entries include a beautiful 1933 Alvis Firefly. This elegant pre-War British classic was fully restored many years ago and has been lovingly cared for ever since. The guide price for this stylish motor car is £40,000-£50,000.

One unusual early submission - and possibly not one for Jaguar purists but certainly one for lovers of head-turning cars - is the 1959 Challenger E-type replica Mk 1. This unique machine is one of the first-ever Challenger E-types, having been built in Cornwall in 1995 by the Triple C Company before the company moved to the Scottish borders and changed its name to Challenger. So why the 1959 date attribution? That comes from the donor car - a 1959 Rover 90 - and has resulted in the car’s logbook showing it as registered as a 1959 Jaguar E-type, making it the oldest registered ‘E-type’ in the world! In bright red with white hardtop and whitewall tyres, it’s certainly a looker and, with a guide price of £8,000-£12,000, it offers E-type looks combined with a 3.5-litre Rover V8 engine for a decidedly un-E-type price!

For more information, or to consign a vehicle to the sale, please visit www.barons-auctions.com.

A FABULOUS SELECTION OF COMPETITION CARS ELIGIBLE FOR HIGH QUALITY AND PRESTIGIOUS EVENTS ARE COMING TO AUCTION

A FABULOUS SELECTION OF COMPETITION CARS ELIGIBLE FOR HIGH QUALITY AND PRESTIGIOUS EVENTS ARE COMING TO AUCTION

A fabulous selection of race cars are heading to auction next week at the prestigious Silverstone Classic where cars eligible for Goodwood, Masters Series, Historic Touring Cars, Spa Historic and other classic racing series will be offered.

One of the star lots will be the iconic Kaliber liveried Ford Sierra Group A touring car. Estimated at £150,000 to £180,000 this is one of two the legendary cars built by Andy Rouse for the 1988 British Touring Car Championship and predominately used by the well-known motorsport marketing guru and ex-Formula One driver Guy Edwards. Whilst one of the cars headed off to Peter Brock after the season finished this car went Adrian Fu and was competed at Macau and the Asian Pacific Series. In 1992 it then competed at Bathurst in the James Hardie race before it was displayed in the museum. In 1993 the current vendor purchased the car and continued to race it in New Zealand after a visit to Peter Brock for some re-engineering. The car continued to win races and was eventually retired at the end of 1997 where it remained in his ownership and in late 2016 early 2017 it was decided to restore the car to its original livery. This is now one totally and the utterly amazing touring car not only prepared by Andy Rouse but also by Pete Brock, two of the biggest names in touring cars. What’s more, it also comes with a basic spares package and an option of a complete inventory to support a race effort lasting many seasons.

Lionel Abbott of Silverstone Auction commented: “This is a very special car, well known to many in an era when these RS500s were all-conquering. Our vendor has owned this car for many years and it is now presented in a wonderful condition for the next owner to either go racing or to include in their collection.”

If you are thinking of going racing in the World Sportscar Masters, this next car would be a great way to get involved and be competitive straight away. This 1972 Lola T 290estimated at £110,000 to £125,000 once took part in the 1974 Targa Florio and more recently competed at the 2011 Silverstone Classic in the hands of the respected engine builder David Gathercole. Purchased in 1988 by a Swede and taken back to Italy until 1995 it was then purchased by Mr Jim Jaqua who exported it to America and had it prepared by a well-known US preparer. It was later bought through Simon Hadfield, well known historic racer by the current vendor in 2007 and now with full FIA HTP papers is looking for a new home and to go racing again.

With a number of Ferraris in the sale, this 430 GT3 which in 2008 and 2009 was raced by Hector Lester and the late Allan Simonsen is a very special car. In their hands, it achieved one win, three pole positions and four fastest laps. Now restored by Prosport in 2015 and used for track days by the current vendor, prepared by RnR, this Ferrari GT3 comes with spares and interesting provenance. Estimated at £100,000 to £120,000 this is a great opportunity for someone to either continue using it on track days or to go racing once again.

For something a little less raucous yet still bundles of fun, this 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint is very suitable for events like Goodwood and Historic Touring Car Cup meetings. Believed to have last been raced in 1981 and still wearing its distinctive Mach 3 livery but under the bonnet, there are signs of its original Butch Racing Team livery from the 1974 and 1975 Spa 24 hours race. This car has a great history, has been professionally stored in dehumidified storage for the last two years and is now ready to be rebuilt to Group 1 specification in order to gain FIA papers to go racing again. Estimated at £20,000 to £25,000 this is a wonderful Dolomite with a BMIHT certificate and a spare set of wheels and tyres.

And for historic racers wishing to go to Goodwood or to compete in the Masters Series, Historic Touring cars or similar this rare 1965 Studebaker Lark Daytona 500 estimated at £65,000 to £80,000 and excitingly offered at No Reserve is a fantastic opportunity. This a highly developed, expertly prepared and extremely competitive car. It comes with a host of spares including wheels, tyres, differentials, body panels and further assorted parts. There is also highly likely to be an invitation from Goodwood when their period for racing is 1960s saloons.

With so many cars and competition cars in the forthcoming sale, one cannot forget that another of the star cars is the Lotus Cortina prepared by Alan Mann Racing for Sir John Whitmore. It dominated the 1965 season, winning eight out of the nine rounds. With links to being a Works car and also being shared with Jack Sears and Sir John Whitmore for an assault on the Nurburgring 6 hour race, which they won overall and set a new lap record, being used by Ford for a promotional tour, this is one of the most historic and important race cars to come on the market.

Sir John owned the car from 1967 until 1995, residing in the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu from 1972 to 1978 and then with Jack Sears on his farm in Norfolk. It was then purchased by an American enthusiast who continued to preserve the history and in 2013 the Ford Lotus Cortina returned to the UK to be sold at auction having just covered 1,000 miles whilst in the care of the previous owner. The current vendor, who is a family friend of the Manns, is now offering the car for sale at £190,000 to £220,000 with just 11,464 miles, albeit mainly race miles.

Harry Whale auction manager for Silverstone Auctions commented: “We have several fabulous lots of competition cars which are suitable for all budgets and eligible for a variety of high-quality historic events. We are also delighted to be offering such legendary cars as the Kaliber Ford Sierra RS Cosworth and Sir John Whitmore’s Lotus Cortina.”

“The Silverstone Classic sale is our most prestigious sale at one of the UK’s largest historic motorsport events at the legendary Silverstone Circuit and we are very real looking forward to the sale over the weekend of the 26th to 28th July.”

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.

THE SÁRRAGA COLLECTION: RM SOTHEBY’S HIGHLIGHTS RARE CARS WITH PORTUGUESE HISTORY AHEAD OF SALE

THE SÁRRAGA COLLECTION: RM SOTHEBY’S HIGHLIGHTS RARE CARS WITH
PORTUGUESE HISTORY AHEAD OF SALE

RM Sotheby’s is delighted to reveal more details of rare and exclusive cars to be offered from the Sáragga Collection, presented entirely without reserve nearby the stunning beach location of Comporta, Portugal, on 21 September 2019. Many cars of the 130-strong collection gathered by discerning enthusiast and collector, Mr Sáragga, are highly collectable individual automobiles that boast lovely Portuguese provenance, sure to resonate strongly with local collectors and beyond.

Among the most significant lots is a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS Touring, delivered new to Portuguese Angola and which has remained in mainland Portugal since 1975. The beautifully restored, late third-series example of Porsche’s iconic and highly collectable 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring retains its original engine and gearbox and is just one of five delivered in stunning, special-order Signal Orange (1414) with a black leatherette interior. A Porsche Certificate of Authority notes that this RS was factory-equipped with an electric sunroof, headrests, tinted glass and a Blaupunkt stereo. Boasting racing history in Portugal, participating in the 1979 Rally Portugal Vinho do Porto, wearing race number 24, and, at the 20^th anniversary of Estoril in 1992, this RS finished first in Group 4. The car underwent a full restoration in 2012 and has covered fewer than 3,000kms since. Following restoration, the RS featured in the book ‘50 Years of Porsche in Portugal’, highlighting Porsche’s rich history in the country (Est.€450,000 – €550,000).

One of the many highlights of the pre-war cars offered in the Sáragga Collection is a 1939 Delahaye 135M Cabriolet by Chapron, which was delivered new to Lisbon and has remained in Portugal all its life. The rare and authentic Chapron ‘Grand Luxe’ bodywork features unique doors, hood, bumpers, and wings, as well as a luxurious interior that – at the time of specification – could be detailed to the buyer’s express wishes. The Grand Luxe kit increased the price of the car by around 50% compared to a standard body, therefore only around 40 of these were built and fewer than 20 are known to survive. Before joining the Sáragga Collection, the car last changed hands in 1996 following long periods of family ownership (Est. €400,000 – €450,000).

An extremely rare and highly desirable 1955 WD Denzel 1300 also features in the collection, as one of approximately 65 models constructed and one of roughly 30 known to remain, with just five Portuguese owners from new. This car —chassis number DK32—arrived with the Lisbon-based Denzel importer, Auto Portuguesa, in 1954, before it was entered into a handful of races and rallies. Its competition high point was placing second overall and first in class at the Rallye a San Pedro de Moel in August 1956. The car briefly returned to the Denzel factory in Vienna for modification, with its original body replaced with a later style unit, and the original 1,500cc engine replaced with a 1,300cc Super Sport powertrain, benefitting from a small power increase. The car returned to Portugal to race once more and was fully restored in 2012, presenting a rare opportunity to own an immaculate example of this highly unusual, charismatic and historically significant small-capacity racing sports car (Est. €380,000 – €450,000).

A 1966 Mercedes-Benz 600 Sedan by Chapron is a one-off, coachbuilt example, residing in Portugal with 30 years of single ownership prior to joining the Sáragga Collection. Featuring a full glass roof that is unique to this car, the first buyer – an oil magnate – turned to the coachbuilder, Henri Chapron, after Mercedes-Benz turned down his request for a full glass roof. Upon the first owner’s passing, the car was left in his will to the Portuguese gardener of his house in Cannes. The car has been in Portugal since (Est: €300,000 – €450,000). A 1947 HRG Aerodynamic by Fox & Nicholl is documented as having Portuguese competition history with class wins and remains eligible for historic racing and rallying today. Having competed in various Portuguese races and hill climb events in the 1940s and 50s, the car was rediscovered in 1989 and was subsequently fully rebuilt (Est: €180,000 – €250,000).

One of the first Jaguar E-Type coupes built – largely, by hand – at Jaguar’s Coventry facility, is also offered in the sale. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Fixed Head Coupe is also the very first E-Type FHC to be registered in Portugal. Perhaps most importantly, it was built prior to February 1962 and is an early ‘flat floor’ example so coveted by collectors (Est. €140,000 – €160,000). Another unique car offered at auction is a 1953 Bristol 401 Saloon, delivered new to Portugal and remaining there since, this is among the last of the 401s built, itself ranked as one of only 700 ever manufactured (Est. €30,000 – €40,000).

Paul Darvill, Car Specialist, RM Sotheby’s, said: “The scale of exclusive and rare cars we have available in Portugal is significant. The local provenance is a key feature of a number of lots and this is not restricted to the higher valued cars, so there is something for everyone within the sale. With a high number of accessibly priced cars, the Sáragga Collection is not only open to traditional collectors but also to those wanting to buy some really interesting cars from a well-known collection whilst visiting a stunning beach location.”

The Sáragga Collection calls the small, picturesque town of Alcácer do Sal home, just minutes from the seaside region of Comporta, which has quickly become one of the most fashionable and stylish resorts in Europe. The region offers the perfect setting for a warm weekend away in Portugal this autumn, with a number of luxury hotels and restaurants nearby, and just an hour’s drive from Lisbon International Airport. The Sáragga Collection reflects the discerning and eclectic personal tastes of its owner, with many cars combining broad desirability with strong Portuguese provenance and history. The collection comprises over 130 cars to include pre-war greats, exclusive Porsche models, American classics of all eras, and some rare and diminutive microcar gems. Values within the collection range from as little as €10,000 through to €800,000.

Event details and a frequently updated list of all lots offered in the Sáragga Collection are available at rmsothebys.com. To speak with an RM Sotheby’s specialist or to register to bid for this exceptional collection, please call +44 (0) 20 7851 7070.

Photo Information (Credit: Tom Gidden ©2019 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's

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

DIVERSE OFFERING OF COLLECTOR CARS LEADS RM AUCTIONS AUBURN SPRING SALE

DIVERSE OFFERING OF COLLECTOR CARS LEADS RM AUCTIONS AUBURN SPRING SALE

AUCTION TOTALS MORE THAN $6.8 MILLION

STRONG PRICES ACHIEVED FOR HIGHLY ORIGINAL COLLECTIBLES OFFERED FROM THE BOB STRAUSS COLLECTION

• RM Auctions Auburn Spring totals $6,853,794 across four days of auction action at the historic Auburn Auction Park
• Diverse top ten list led by beautifully restored 1930 Cord L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan at $157,300
• The Strauss Collection of impressive vintage and neon signs leads a successful two full days of memorabilia
• Complete results for Auburn Spring now available at rmsothebys.com

 RM Auctions returned to the historic Auburn Auction Park this past weekend (29 May – 1 June) for the company’s annual Auburn Spring collector car weekend. Total sales across the four-day auction reached $6,853,794, led by a diverse top ten sales list and two full days of exceptional memorabilia and collectables on offer. Bidders at the Auburn Spring sale hailed from no less than 11 countries, with more than 40 per cent representing first-time RM Auctions clientele.

The Auburn Spring auction sales were led by a diverse top three sales, including a marvellously restored and ACD Club Category One-certified 1930 Cord L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan at $157,300, a 2015 Rolls-Royce Wraith offered from single ownership at $156,750, and, rounding out the top three, a 1965 Shelby Cobra 289 “CSX 8001”, the first 8000-series 289 Cobra by Shelby American, at a final $104,500.

Additional highlights across various levels and segments of the market include a well-equipped 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL ‘Pagoda’ offered from The European Luxury Collection, which exceeded expectations at a final $93,500 (est. $65/$75k), a beautifully restored 1969 Plymouth GTX, which sold for $57,000 on Friday, surpassing its estimate of $40,000-$45,000, and a 1979 AMC AMX, showing what is believed to be an original 8,400 miles on the odometer, which drew considerable pre-sale interest, selling for a final$24,500 to more than double its pre-sale high estimate (est. $6k/$10k).

Auburn Spring successfully kicked off on Wednesday and Thursday with more than 800 lots of memorabilia going under the hammer, led by the Strauss Collection, comprising the impressive signs and collectables of the late Bob Strauss. The top seller of the collection was the Ford Jubilee Neon Sign, an 84 x 42-inch SSP multi-piece rolled edge neon, which achieved $63,250. Another stand-out memorabilia highlight was the Gas Flying A Chicken Wings Logo Neon Sign with excellent gloss and colour, and working neon, which surpassed its pre-sale estimate of $10,000-$20,000, bringing in $27,730.

Once again, the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) held their Annual Grand National Meet at Auburn Spring, welcoming 400 cars in total, along with 200 judges and thousands of guests. The meet saw hundreds of incredible cars on display, including 16 finalists for the Zenith Award, bestowed upon the best restoration of the year. The 2019 award went to a stunning 1931 Buick 8-94 Sport Roadster owned by David M. Landow of Bethesda, Maryland. The seven-year restoration project “wowed” the public and other competitors alike.

RM Auctions Auburn Spring 2019 Top Ten Sales

Lot 6088	1930 Cord L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan	$157,300
Lot 6059	2015 Rolls-Royce Wraith	$156,750
Lot 6101	1965 Shelby Cobra 289 "CSX 8001"	$104,500
Lot 6048	1988.5 Ferrari Testarossa	$99,000
Lot 6041	1932 Packard 900 Coupe Roadster	$94,600
Lot 6105	1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL 'Pagoda'	$93,500
Lot 6077	1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible	$84,150
Lot 6055	1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8	$81,400
Lot 6057	1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray 427/390 Convertible	$81,400
Lot 6073	1954 Packard Caribbean Convertible	$80,300

The RM Sotheby’s Group continues its 2019 auction calendar with its flagship Monterey auction in California on 15-17 August during the world-famous Pebble Beach motoring week. Featuring more than 120 of the world’s most sought-after motor cars, the auction is led by the recently announced 1939 Porsche Type 64, the oldest car to wear the Porsche badge and the only surviving Type 64. This year’s Monterey sale is also extended to three days to include An Evening with Aston Martin on 15 August, which will feature more than 30 of the world’s most sought-after road-going and track-ready Aston Martin sports cars from across the marque’s illustrious history. Further information on upcoming events, along with complete results from RM Auctions Auburn Spring, can be found at rmsothebys.com.

RACE CARS HEADING TO AUCTION AT SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

RACE CARS HEADING TO AUCTION AT SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

One of the most significant touring cars is coming to Silverstone Auctions sale on the 26th to 28th July at the Silverstone Classic Sale.

Sir John Whitmore’s Ford Lotus Cortina that took him to the 1965 European Touring Car Championship crown is being offered for sale with an estimated price of £190,000 to £220,000.

Prepared by Alan Mann Racing for Sir John Whitmore, this car dominated the 1965 season, it won eight out of the nine rounds, leaving all behind in its wake. The great Jack Sears shared the car with Sir John Whitmore that years for an assault on the Nurburgring 6 hour race which they won overall and set a new lap record. It was then retired from competition at the end of the 1965 season, where it was used by Ford for a promotional tour.

In 1967 Sir John bought the car and it remained in his ownership until 1995. During that time, the car resided in the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu from 1972 to 1978 and also spent some time with Jack Sears on his farm in Norfolk. It was then purchased by an American enthusiast who had no intention of racing the Cortina but continued to preserve the history of this most famous car.

In 2013 the Ford Lotus Cortina returned to the UK to be sold at auction has just covered 1,000 miles whilst in the care of the previous owner. The current vendor, who is a family friend of the Manns, is now offering the car for sale with just 11,464 miles, albeit mainly race miles. The history behind this car is so complete, with results, articles from Autosport, correspondence and period photographs.

This is one of the most historical and important race cars to come on the market that was raced and belonged to one of the legends of British Motorsport.

Other race cars being offered for sale is a rare 1965 Studebaker Lark Daytona 500 estimated at £65,000 to £80,000 and excitingly is offered at No Reserve. Having secured invitations to some of the most high-profile historic race meetings such as Goodwood, this is a highly developed, expertly prepared and extremely competitive car. It comes with a host of spares including wheels, tyres, differentials, body panels and further assorted parts. This car is welcome in the Masters Series, HRDC Historic Touring Cars, Bernie’s V8s and HSCC Touring Cars. There is also highly likely to be an invitation from Goodwood when their period for racing is 1960s saloons.

For something that is more of a club man specification, a 1998 Dare Ginetta is being offered at £22,000 to £26,000 which is equally as happy on the road and supplied with both a soft and a hard top. The current vendor is the fourth owner of the car and has always kept it garaged and covered and been used on the road only when it is dry. The chassis and bodywork were rebuilt in 2010 and at the same time, the engine was also rebuilt. This car is currently on a SORN but it wouldn’t take much to get it back into action.

Also on offer is this beautifully prepared 1991 BMW E30 M3 2.5 Competition estimated at £75,000 to £80,000. A well-proven car in the world of rallying and touring car racing, this car has been painstakingly prepared to the highest standard over the last four to five years. An extensive list of its specification which includes a bodyshell built to Prodrive Rally M3 spec can be found on the Silverstone Auctions website.

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, including automobilia and luxury watches. The lots can be previewed on the 25th July 2019 from 13.30 to 18.30 and 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.

Top:1965 Ford Lotus Cortina - Ex-Sir John Whitmore (1)

Top Left:1965 Ford Lotus Cortina - Ex-Sir John Whitmore (3)

Top Right: 1965 Ford Lotus Cortina - Ex-Sir John Whitmore (4)

Below Centre:1965 Studebaker Lark Daytona 500

Bottom Right: 1998 Dare Ginetta 2.0 G4

1991Bottom Left: BMW E30 M3 2.5 Competition

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