Category: Historics (Page 3 of 5)

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO and 1947 Delahaye 135MS Narval Cabriolet Awarded Best in Show at The Amelia

March 3, 2024 / moto+match / 0 Comments

AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. (March 3, 2024) – A 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO was crowned Best in Show, Concours de Sport while a 1947 Delahaye 135MS Narval Cariolet took home Best in Show, Concours d’Elegance at the 29th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. The Sunday Concours concluded a week long celebration of the automobile which included auction, seminars, film viewings and several automotive events. In total, over 27,000 automotive enthusiasts visited The Amelia between February 29 and March 3. Continue reading

“GM’s Marvelous Motorama” Exhibit Coming to Petersen Automotive Museum in March

February 28, 2024 / moto+match / 0 Comments

LOS ANGELES (February, 28, 2024) – The Petersen Automotive Museum will celebrate “Dream Cars” from the 1950s with its newest exhibit, “GM’s Marvelous Motorama: Dream Cars From the Joe Bortz Collection,” which will open on March 16. The exhibit will feature six concept cars, together for the first time under one roof, originally displayed at GM Motorama shows in 1953, ’54 and ’55. Continue reading

Eight-time World Champion John Surtees to be Honored at the Goodwood Revival

February 7, 2024 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Goodwood is proud to announce that the exceptional career of John Surtees – to this day the only person to win World Championships on two and four wheels – will be celebrated at this year’s Goodwood Revival, taking place over the weekend of 6-8 September. Continue reading

UPON REFLECTION: Jaguar at Mille Miglia 2015

May 29, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

(Coventry – 29 May 2015). Following a hugely successful Mille Miglia in 2015, Jaguar Heritage has released a film of this year’s rally, giving viewers an in-depth look at an event once described as ‘The most beautiful race in the world’.

In the year that Jaguar celebrates its 80^th anniversary, the official Jaguar Heritage team headed to the start in Brescia with three C-types, three D-types, two XK120s and an XK140 driven by famous faces from the world of motorsport, TV and music. Following the Jaguar Heritage cavalcade were a group of media guests driving various examples of new Jaguar XE and latest generation of F-TYPE sports cars.

Supported by an expert crew of Jaguar Heritage technicians, the nine Jaguar entries ran smoothly throughout the gruelling four-day event. Driven by the likes of supermodel David Gandy, model and TV presenter Jodie Kidd, and musician Elliot Gleave – better known as Example – the Jaguar Heritage team finished strongly in the Mille Miglia’s regularity trial rankings, too.

Jaguar Design Director, Ian Callum, who was driving an Ecurie Ecosse D-type said: “It’s a huge privilege to be part of that car’s history – because it’s made even more history now, being part of the Mille Miglia. This year’s drive was pure enjoyment for me, pure exhilaration. This event is amazing – it gives you a unique feeling for what the car is about. It underlines exactly what the Jaguar brand is all about.”

TV chef and renowned car collector James Martin – who drove a Jaguar Heritage D-type with adventurer Charley Boorman – said of the event: “You feel elated at the end. It’s just the most amazing feeling. I’ve been through the turmoil and the heartache of not finishing the Mille Miglia so to be able to cross that line…I’m a tough Yorkshire farmer, but I had tears in my eyes!”

ON THE BLOCK: The $1,000,000 Fort Lauderdale Challenge

March 26, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

After a successful haul in our $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge, we’re heading south to the Auctions America sale in Fort Lauderdale. Our Petrolhead Godmother continues with her generosity; this time with $1,000,000 to play with this weekend. Using Auction America’s HIGH estimate, choose one or choose several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to bring home. We’ll get started:

Lot 108 — 1973 Peugeot 504 Cabriolet
Estimate $30,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $13,500 including premium

Featured in a Pick Of The Day last year, this is an presentable example of a car rarely seen on these shores. While it shows signs of wear and previous body repairs, this Peugeot 504 has had recent paint and is a complete example of a classic Pininfarina styling.

Lot 177 — 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante
Estimate $150,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $151,250 including premium

Not much information is in the catalog beyond the history of the V8 as a model, but this looks to be a rather tidy example, complete with books and tools. Although it is an automatic, it would still make for some very pleasant open touring.

Lot 226 — 1989 Porsche 911 Turbo (930)
Estimate $85,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $82,250 including premium

Although we aren’t given an odometer reading other than its condition belies the miles, this looks to be an excellent original example of a one-year-only 5-speed 930. Its high estimate would appear to be a bargain relative to other 1989s in like condition (not to mention the 1976 model that runs earlier in the day, estimated at $200,000).

Lot 317 — 1935 Ford Model A “Ratrod’ Pickup
Estimate $40,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $26,000

This is another one of those lots that we’d chase only when Petrolhead Godmother is footing the bill, but that said, it is dandy. Powered by a 350 V8, its steel body has been chopped, stanced, channeled and dropped. Period wheels and tires cover front disc brakes. A very nicely built blend of bootleg-era looks and contemporary performance.

Lot 356 — 1949 Cadillac Series 61 Club Coupe Sedanette
Estimate $65,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $55,000 including premium

The C-Body Cadillacs of 1948 and 1949 brought together big advances in engineering with the overhead-valve V8 and alluring looks. Here we see the first nubs of Harley Earl’s tailfins punctuating a sleek and graceful body, particularly in the fastback “Sedanette” form. This one form 1949 was a former barn find restored to its current condition with a rebuilt original drivetrain. It’s a positively gorgeous American cruiser that is said to drive quite well.

Lot 472 — 1981 Renault R5 Turbo
Estimate $75,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $49,500 including premium

The Renault R5 Turbo is in many ways an answer to a question no-one was asking. It’s a completely insane answer, yet it makes perfect sense at the same time. Take a pedestrian Renault R5 (what we might remember as Le Car) and transform it into a mid-engined beast that eats supercars for breakfast. This example looks to have been restored at some point to what appears to be a high degree, yet appears to have been used as intended which is to drive the merde out of it. What’s not to love?

Lot 486 — 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary
Estimate $425,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid of $320,000

Petrolhead Godmother always says, “if you get thrown from a bull, get right back on.” We missed out on the Lamborghini Countach 5000S Quattrovalvole at Gooding and Company’s Amelia Island sale earlier this month, thus we’re somewhat compelled to try again. This time it’s the ultimate expression of the Countach, the coveted 25th Anniversary model. This one shows beautifully in its classic Italian combination of red on tan. With a recent service and less than 21,000 km, it promises to be appropriately raging.

Lot 622 — 1948 MG TC
Estimate $52,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $37,500

Few capture the charm of early British motoring the way an MG TC does. Future TDs and TFs were already becoming too modern. This one from 1948 has been used sparingly since undergoing an older high quality restoration. It condition remains show worthy, but this little thing begs to be thrown on the open road, only stopping for a picnic. The Clipper Blue finish is a nice departure as well.

We came to a total of $922,000. Buyer’s premiums will put us slightly over the million dollar mark, but once again we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.

For the complete Auctions America Fort Lauderdale 2015 results click here.

ON THE BLOCK: The $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge

March 10, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

If you’ve watched or participated in any of the /DRIVE eBay challenges on YouTube, you know how this works. In this case, your Petrolhead Godmother just plopped $2,000,000 USD in your lap to spend as you like at this weekend’s auctions during the Amelia Island Concours d”Elegance. Using the auction companies’ HIGH estimates, pick one or pick several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to haul home. We’ll get started:

From Bonhams – Thursday, March 12

Lot 118 — 1962 Austin Healey 3000 MK II BT7 2+2
Estimate $50,000-$60,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $51,700 including premium

In recent years, Big Healeys have gone through a bit of a downturn after a sharp rise in the mid- to late-2000s. Within the last year or so, the market has caught up. It appears now to have made the corrections and adjustments such that they’re realistically priced, vis à vis a Series 1 E-Type on one end of the spectrum and say an MGB at the other. Among the Austin Healey 3000 MKs, many find the middle-gen MK II the most appealing, particularly in the 2+2 BT7 configuration. The MK II had the shortest production run and was an ideal bridge between the rawness of the MK I’s triple carburetors, along with a classic oval dash, and the MK III’s refinements (roll-up windows and a wraparound windscreen). This example radiates its British Roadster-ness, with the Old English White paint over Red interior. It is said to have had a thorough restoration in the late 2000s (just as the market flattened) and reports to be an excellent performer with a strong motor and 4-speed overdrive gearbox. Bonhams estimate of $50-60K is right on the money.

Lot 168 — 1912 Peerless Model 60 Runabout
Estimate $250,000-$350,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $440,000 including premium

It may be the type of car that we pursue only when someone dumps $2M in our laps (or we have a discretionary $350,000 laying around), but given such an event, a Peerless Runabout would certainly be one to go after. Among its superlatives are first to offer electric headlamps, first to offer an electric starter, and, in the case of the Model 60 presented here, most cubic inches ever stuffed under an American-made hood (824). The Peerless Model 60 was arguably the fastest thing on the road in the Brass Era. This example was resto-mod’ed in the ‘60s. In that process, some liberties were taken to improve the car’s drivability. These include a shortened chassis, as well as modified steering and brakes, along with coachwork enhancements that give it the Runabout appearance of a 45-hp Model 32 whilst retaining the 66-hp 13.5-liter lump. So while not original, it is a gorgeous representation of motoring’s earliest days and carries with it some notable provenance.

From Gooding and Company – Friday, March 13

Lot 021 — 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB Vetroresina
Estimate $175,000-$225,000
UPDATE SOLD FOR $192,500 including premium

Less than a decade ago, the predecessor of the iconic Ferrari 308 GTB, the 246 GT, wasn’t even considered a real Ferrari, with its “entry-level” Dino badging. Ever since, many of us have sat by helpless as their values have increased ten-fold in that time. As those at the very highest echelons of automotive investing have often pondered what the next 250 GTO might be (the answer: the 250 GTO is the next 250 GTO), the broader masses are wondering whether the 308 will follow its progenitor toward the half-million dollar mark. This isn’t a science and there are no formulas and even less guarantees, but it does stand to reason. Specifically, the first to get there would likely be one of the early lightweight 308 GTBs, whose bodies were made of GRP fiberglass, or vetroresina. Only 712 were made before other weight savings allowed for steel bodies that were close to the Vetroresina’s overall weight. At last summer’s Silverstone Classic, a steel bodied, targa-roof, wet-sump 1979 308 GTS set a world record at £82,225 (around $124,500 USD). A much rarer glass GTB should do considerably better. Offered without Reserve.

Lot 24 — 1987 Lamborghini Contact 5000 QV
Estimate $425,000-$475,000
UPDATE: HIGH BID $375,000

With early examples of the Lamborghini LP 400 Countach “Periscopa” now fetching seven figures, logic would have it that later generations will follow suit, at least to some degree. The most likely candidate would be the 25th Anniversary editions of 1988, but on the heels of those would be the 48-valve Countach 5000 QV (quattrovalvole). Only 610 of these bulls were built. This one looks to be especially unique in its Pearl White finish and Ivory interior. Furthermore, most of them were ordered with the optional rear wing whereas the owner of this one (who owned it until 2014) opted to retain the original lines of the LP 400, complemented by swapping the gruesome US-mandated bumpers with the svelte ones it was designed to have. With a fresh service, it is described in “as new” mechanical condition. The quintessential bedroom poster car of the ’80s, this Countach might be a relative bargain at its high estimate of $475,000.

Lot 024 — 1976 Alpine A110
Estimate $100,000-$140,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $88,000 including premium

When the name Alpine is mentioned in automotive circles, the vast majority of people—at least those of us in the US—think of car stereos. Even among enthusiasts, many consider Alpine—the car—to be a Renault sports/GT. Alpine (pronounced AL-peen-UH), however was an independent manufacturer that outfitted their chassis and fiberglass bodies with, primarily, Renault drivetrains until being bought out by Renault in 1973. Shortly thereafter, Alpine Renault gained notoriety in motorsport by winning the inaugural World Rally Championship with a competition-spec A110. Although they never reached the same level of success in competition, the rally inspiration carried through until the end of the A110’s run in 1977 (replaced by the edgier A310). This included the French Racing Blue livery, racing seats and auxiliary lights. This example comes from its penultimate year and is equipped exactly as such. On a purely objective basis, the Alpine A110 can be seen as a poor man’s Porsche 911 2.7 Carrera RS. What it lacks in raw horsepower, it makes up for with its uniqueness and French charm. Okay, maybe not entirely but it is a lightweight rear-engined production car-turned motorsport-turned production car for about half the cost of the RS Carrera. And, should the Nissan GTR-based Alpine A110-50 come to be, there could be a new appreciation for a distinguished brand. Offered without Reserve.

Lot 034 — 1934 Packard Eight 1101 Coupé Roadster
Estimate $180,000-$220,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $143,000 including premium

The Packard Eight was the right car at the wrong time. The absolute worst time. By the time of the 11th Series (Packard did not follow model-year convention) at the end of 1933, the US was just beginning to emerge—but still deeply in—the Great Depression. The American consumer was struggling to buy bread and while there was plenty of wealth at the opposite end of the scale, those customers had much more exclusive Duesenbergs and Rolls-Royces to consider. Those in the middle that could afford a new car were flocking to the Ford V8, costing more than five times less (granted, far less creature comforts as well). The Packard Eight simply couldn’t find a significant market. For this reason alone, it deserves a place in a collection today. This 1101 Coupé Roadster (complete with rumble seat) remains remarkably original, never in need of total restoration, though it did have some high-quality reconditioning at various times in its life. It has a known owner history and has been exceptionally cared for. At roughly 10% of comparable Duesie or Rolls money, this Packard Eight is a delightful example of ’30s luxury. Offered without reserve.

From RM Sotheby’s – Saturday, March 14

Lot 126 – 1934 Bentley 3¹⁄₂-Litre Drophead Coupé
Estimate $275,000-$375,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $231,000 including premium

While Packard and Duesenberg represented what an American car should be in 1934, Rolls-Royce and the then recently acquired Bentley Motors represented the peak of the European automotive landscape (much as they do today). Where the Packard was about comfort, strength, durability, and sheer mass, the Bentley was, as E.W. Hives, the 3¹⁄₂-Litre’s principal designer in Derby put it, “to be driven fast with safety or will tour without fuss and noise.” While any Derby Bentley is special, this particular 3¹⁄₂-Litre is that much more so for being largely bespoke for its initial owner, a Mr. M.S. Spencer-Naim. Mr. Naim ordered a three-position cabriolet body to be built by Thrupp and Maberly, as well as a unique speedometer-clock cluster and shortened steering column and gear lever. After serving in WWII, Mr. Naim returned to growing family and regrettably sold Chassis B75BL to R.E. Merchant who was its steward until 1984, when it was sold to Howard Brown of California. Mr. Brown intended to do a bare-metal repaint, but sadly died before it was complete. Mr. Brown’s wife sold it to its current owner who completed the repaint, along with new carpets, replaced wood and new wheel discs. With only four passionate owners, it’s no surprise that it retains an extraordinary documented history, including log books, build sheets and the original owner’s handbook that have been issued by Bentley Motor Cars, and the service file, which dates back to 1953. This is a car that lends itself perfectly to historic tours and/or concours, from club events to the international stage. For roughly new Continental GTC Speed money, this Bentley has million dollar looks and a priceless history.

Lot 197 — 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A
Estimate $150,000-$200,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $286,000 including premium

On its own, this is a stunning example of a rare pre-SL Mercedes-Benz sports-tourer. Although not a pure sports car legend like the 300 SL Roadster, production numbers are significantly lower for the 220 Cabriolet A (the ‘A’ being two seats plus a “kinder,” whilst the ‘B’ had a full four seats). Only 1,278 were sold (vs. 1,858 SL Roadsters). Its 2.2-litre inline six, with its innovative “oversquare” architecture (shorter stroke than bore dimension), was to become a stalwart Mercedes-Benz power plant well into the ’70s while its rich leathers, carpeting and wood never allow its occupants to forget that they are in a Mercedes-Benz. With only 20 miles since an older restoration, this one looks as new with exceptional paint and fresh interior. The custom fitted luggage and Telefunken radio are also a nice touch. By itself, easily worth the $200,000 high estimate, but as a complement to the Bentley we bought earlier (Lot 126), it is an absolute must-have.

Our spree totals $2,045,000. Yes, its over, but we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.

Update: March 15, 2015 – Out three-auction, three-day total came to $1,432,200. This leaves us with over $500,000 to close a deal on the 1988 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV, the only no-sale of our picks. At the end of bidding, auctioneer Charlie Ross announced that its high bid of $375,000 was “very close.”

Bargain of the Day honors, if one can call them that, belong to our Bentley 31⁄2-Litre which sold below its catalogue estimate for $231,000 including premium.

Bonhams

http://goo.gl/mgucJd

Gooding and Company

http://goo.gl/dTUh7Y

RM Auctions | Sotheby’s

http://goo.gl/S9PprM

IN THE NEWS: Lamborghini Sarasota Kicks Off Sarasota Exotic Car Fest

December 12, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

December 11, 2014, Sarasota FL – The Sarasota Exotic Car Fest fired up its 13th year with a reception at Lamborghini Sarasota. The event will be held February 20-22, 2015 with a theme honoring the 30th Anniversary of Miami Vice and its car culture. Several guests at the reception got into the spirit, donning their ‘80s attire. While the centerpiece of the weekend will be the exotic cars, several other activities will be taking place, offering something for everyone.

“We continue to grow, drawing entries from as far as Washington state. This year, with the Miami Vice ‘80s theme and one-of-a-kind Cocktail Theater, promises to be our best one yet.” – Marilee Roberts, Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Chair

The weekend begins Friday night, February 20, with a luxury lifestyle reception featuring a silent auction, wine, cocktails, haute cuisine, private jets from presenting sponsor Southern Jet, and a hangar full of exotic cars from Aston Martin, Bentley, Lamborghini, Maserati, Mclaren, Rolls Royce, and more. The next day, these cars and many more will line the streets of downtown Sarasota for an up-close-and-personal look. The concours is free and open to the public, with a VIP area presented by Full Moon Productions. A dinner follows, featuring a unique cocktail theater, presented by world-renowned mixologist Rob Floyd, as well as dancing and entertainment. Sunday begins with a rally, touring some of the area’s best driving roads, ending at The Founders Golf Club for a closing brunch.

For the third year, all proceeds benefit United Cerebral Palsy of Southwest Florida, Inc. For tickets or more information please visit sarasotaexoticcarfest.com.

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Co-chairs Marilee and Gary Roberts

ON THE BLOCK: Coy’s “True Greats” Christmas Sale Highlights Niki Lauda’s First F1 Car and Porsche 904/6 Carrera GTP

November 7, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

071114coys

With more than seventy cars going under the hammer, including Niki Lauda’s first F1 car and a huge number of cinema posters, Coys end of season ‘True Greats’ Christmas sale at the Royal Horticultural Halls in London on December 2nd is likely to be a real blockbuster.

Chris Routledge, Managing Partner at Coys, said: “We have an amazing number of interesting cars going under the hammer. It will be a truly unique opportunity for any serious collector to acquire some of the most spectacular cars available on the open market.”

The auction will feature three times World Champion Niki Lauda’s first F1 car. This iconic former Grand Prix March from the “Golden Era” was built in 1971 for Ronnie Peterson, who used it as his initial Works Team Car at Kylami, Monaco and the memorable Zandfort race. This then became his spare car after he took over the new 711 -6 chassis at the German Grand Prix of that year. It was at this time in 1971 that this car became the career opener for Niki Lauda when he started at Peterson’s team as the second works driver. It is estimated at £450,000 to £500,000.

The sale will also feature a 1964 Works Prototype Porsche 904/6 Carrera GTP, possibly one of the finest and most successful Porsches ever constructed. It kick started a program of racing cars, that would eventually result in the all-conquering 917. It also holds a unique spot in the manufacturer’s history as the last dual-purpose sports scar Porsche ever built. The car comes with a file containing letters from Porsche Works confirming 904-108`s works prototype history and pictures of its works participation at the 1965 Targa Florio. Immaculately presented, ready for use and running as it should, this is a world-class car for a world-class collection. It is estimated at £1,100,000 to £1,300,000.

A wonderful 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/2 6 C is also on offer. This is an early short nose example in excellent all round condition in its distinctive Giallo Fly, a colour that complements the 275’s lines beautifully. Mechanically, it is in outstanding condition, it boasts an interesting specification, proudly bearing the rare and desirable 6 carburettors. It is estimated at £1,100,000 to £1,400,000

Serious collectors or Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts will find an example of one of the most desirable sports-coupes ever made, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. This exceptional car boasts a desirable original specification and retains its original engine. It is estimated at £950,000 to £1,100,000.

A 1936 Alvis Speed 20 Vanden Plas Tourer, ex Brooklands winning car and one of only six produced will be on sale, estimated at £110,000 to £130,000. This matching numbers car, with extensive pre and post war race history, is offered in its original factory specification. Finished in silver beige over black with a complementary and original beige interior, it is supplied with full VSCC and FIVA papers, which enable it to compete in many events worldwide. It is estimated at £90,000 to £110,000.

The auction will also feature a 1970 Renault Alpine A 110 Factory prototype “Group 4” with FIA papers, estimated at £190,000 to £ 220,000; a 1934 Bugatti Type 57 Series I Ventoux, estimated at £250,000 to £280,000; a beautiful and original 1948 MG TC, estimated at £20,000 to £25,000; and a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS, estimated at £350,000 to 450,000.

ON THE BLOCK: Friday Highlights Auctions America Auburn Fall 2014

August 29, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Lot No. 2069 – 1959 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
No Reserve. Auction estimate: $20,000 – $25,000; moto+match estimate: $24,000

Offered here is a beautifully restored 1959 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible finished in delightful colors and accented with chrome bumpers and trim. The beige interior seats, carpets and door panels are very nicely presented, along with an underdash parcel package tray and an AM radio. The highly-detailed engine is a flat four-cylinder backed with a manual transmission. The car is riding on bias-ply wide whitewall tires with painted steel wheels and stainless hubcaps. The front suspension has kingpins with traverse torsion bars, rear swing axles with trailing arms and torsion bars and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. This beautiful Volkswagen convertible has a fun and tidy look that is sure to bring many miles of enjoyment.

Lot No. 3011 – 1985 Bitter SC 3.9 Coupé
No Reserve. Auction estimate: $8,000 – $15,000; moto+match estimate: $18,000

The 1985 Bitter SC offered here is fitted with a 3.9-liter inline six-cylinder that is rated at 207-hp and connected to an automatic transmission. The car has alloy wheels, power steering, brakes, windows, radio and air conditioning. The outside of the car is painted in grey with a nicely accenting red interior. It is 1 of 462 ever built.

Lot No. 3029 – 1959 Hillman Minx Three-Way Convertible
Auction estimate: $12,000 – $16,000; moto+match estimate: $10,000

Hillman performance was greatly increased for 1959 with the adoption of a then new, modern engine design, in which the inline four-cylinder engine had a greater power output for higher cruising speeds without sacrificing economy. The car also had a higher rear end gear ratio, plus changes to make the car more quiet and smooth. The ultra-smart radiator grille design added a new distinction to the long, low and graceful lines of the Hillman’s styling. The interior was also touted as being found with elegance and period luxury. This seldom-seen model has a three-speed manual transmission to go along with the four-cylinder powerplant. The Hillman also has a unique three-position convertible top and new radial tires. The car is reported to be a good running machine and also nice to drive.

Lot No. 3040 – 1960 Chevrolet El Camino
Auction estimate: $40,000 – $50,000; moto+match estimate: $40,000

On the automotive scene, 1960 saw Ford boasting an all-new body style, while the best their arch-rival, Chevrolet, could do (besides launching the revolutionary Corvair) was to offer refined versions of their new-for-‘59 models. One of which was the full-size El Camino car/truck hybrid, available in its second and last year. The idea of a car body and chassis integrated with a pickup bed was not new, and it was not very popular, either, with only 14,163 units finding buyers. Still, they were attractively styled and did offer the comfort of a car with the practicality of a light-duty pickup.

This sharp blazing red example has been extensively restored to a high standard and exhibits only a few very minor paint chips. Its contrasting white top, whitewall tires and chrome bed rails combine to make it even more distinctive. The chrome and stainless trim pieces have been refinished or restored to match the quality of the rest of the vehicle. Inside, more evidence of a top-notch restoration, with exceptional red and white houndstooth upholstery, as-new carpeting and a gleaming body-colored dash that features both radio and clock. A tried-and-true Chevy 283-cid V-8 with a Powerglinde automatic provides the go, and these too have been completely restored and detailed. The chassis and undercarriage are of the same high standards, showing only very minor signs of wear. All in all, this is an outstanding fully restored example of Chevy’s unique 1960 El Camino and is as distinctive and eye-catching today as it was when it rolled out of the dealer’s showroom.

Lot No. 3131 – 1968 Fiat Dino Spider
Auction estimate: $70,000 – $80,000; moto+match estimate: $100,000

Named after Enzo Ferrari’s Son, Alfredo “Dino” Ferrari, the Fiat Dino has a very close relationship to the ever popular 246 Dino (or Ferrari Dino). While the entire goal was to be able to homologate the potent 2.0-liter V-6 developed by Alfredo Ferrari, it ended up a very large success on the road, just as much on the track. While Formula 2 cars sported an intense version of the 2.0-liter and later 2.4-liter version’s of the Dino V-6, it was the vast production of road cars and the masses that benefited from what was truly excellent engine technology of the time. Offered from 1966-1973 in two different series in both Coupe’ and Spider format the Fiat Dino was indeed bang for the buck amongst Italian car enthusiasts. It performed nearly the same as the 246 Ferrari Variant, but for far less and far more usable.

The example on offer here, a 1968 Fiat Dino Spider, Chassis # 135AS0000602 is the 602nd example produced and is considered a Series 1 2.0-liter version. Precise history is not known however we know from a few photos and various documentation in the trunk that by the 1980’s it was with a collector in Texas who was an avid Fiat Dino Club Member. By the early 1990’s the car received a total restoration as seen in a few accompanying photos. The nut and bolt restoration was carried out by World Motors Inc. of Austin, TX, reportedly to very high standards at the time. By 2004 it had migrated to an Italian Car Collector in Sellersville, PA where it was regularly enjoyed, shown, and cared for. Today the car has aged nicely to that of a driver quality example that reportedly runs and drives well, sounds fantastic and makes wonderful power thanks to its four cams and three Weber carburetors. Power to the wheels is by way of a five-speed gearbox that has a very nice feel and well defined gear selection. Cosmetically the car is very presentable as an example that could easily be shown, driven, and equally enjoyed during either. The Pininfarina designed body offers proportionate lines and a very comparable styling to any of Ferrari’s offerings of the 1960’s and 1970’s.

This Dino is a solid and complete example that has had the benefit of a restoration which has been proven by being driven and enjoyed. Complete with a tool kit, jack, spare, and various accompanying documentation this is an opportunity in the collector car world to acquire a famous name and lineage to a comparable car that is now rapidly approaching the $500,000 marque, the Ferrari 246 Dino. Comparable performance, styling, and all of the right attributes these little Dino’s will surely prove to be a wise addition to any collection.

ON THE BLOCK: Silverstone Classic Sale Expands to Two-Day Auction

June 26, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

For the first time this year’s award-winning Silverstone Classic (25-27 July 2014) will include an expanded two-day auction as one of the massive extravaganza’s major attractions.

Organised by Silverstone Auctions the enlarged Silverstone Classic Sale (26-27 July) will include a number of exciting lots that are sure to attract both collectors and enthusiasts.

Latest addition to the lots coming under the hammer is the eclectic ‘Molino’ private collection. It includes 14 classic cars and six motorcycles, spanning nearly 90 years of automotive history.

The collection, the first such to be consigned by Silverstone Auctions, is currently owned by well-known and highly successful Midland’s motor industry character, Mike Hewitt. Since retiring in 2011, he has spent his time acquiring and fully restoring a wide variety of cars and motorcycles that are now offered for sale at Silverstone circuit. It contains rare models from marques such as Fiat, Porsche, Jaguar and MG.

Topping the bill in the collection is a rare 1940 Alvis 12/70 Competition, estimated at between £100,000 and £120,000. This Alvis was raced in national hill climbs and international races from 2007 by the much-respected late Robin Everall.

Commenting on the collection, Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “We’re very proud to be offering this, our first ever private collection, for auction and to play a part in the cars’ histories. What’s even better is that the cars appeal to such a variety of tastes.”

Another incredibly rare British sports car to be offered in Silverstone Auctions’ two-day sale is – fittingly – a 1950 Healey Silverstone, one of just 105 ever built.

The dual-purpose car was hand built at the Donald Healey Motor Company factory in Warwick and was designed to be equally at home on the road or racetrack. Powered by a 104 horsepower 2.5 litre Riley engine and mated to a four speed manual gearbox, the car proved highly competitive in a number of events, including a class win in the 1949 Alpine Rally driven by Healey himself. It has an estimated value at between £160,000 and £180,000.

“The auction is an integral element in the growing success of the Silverstone Classic,” said Event Director, Nick Wigley. “The event is growing bigger and bigger every year and the enlarged two-day sale at this summer’s Classic mirrors that expansion. Moreover with lots such as the Healey Silverstone and wonderful Molino collection coming under the hammer, the auction has some real quality on offer.”

Further information about the Silverstone Classic Sale can be found on the www.silverstoneauctions.comwebsite. For the latest news and ticket details on2014 Silverstone Classic, visit the officialwww.silverstoneclassic.com website.