Dream cars come true at Shannons Sydney Autumn Auction
• World class Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Jaguar and BMW
• Stylish Italian classics
• Stunning restored and upgraded 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
They were the dream cars in their glory days, but now they are sought-after collectible classics at Shannons Autumn Classic Auction in Sydney on Monday, March 4.
Three German classics will be battling for bragging rights: a glamorous 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Convertible, a lovely two-owner factory right-hand-drive 1960 Porsche 356B 1600S Coupe and a rare and fabulous, right hand drive 1988 BMW E30 M3 Evolution II Coupe.
Coming from long-term ownership, the 190SL is understood to have been a US market car when new that was converted to right-hand drive in Australia some years ago.
Finished in period-correct red with contrasting black leather upholstery and showing 30,503 miles on its odometer at the time of cataloguing, this well-maintained Mercedes ‘sports’ comes with both soft and hard tops and with world clues of these models continuing to rise, is expected to sell in the $160,000 - $180,000 range.
The lovely silver metallic Porsche with contrasting green leather interior was delivered new in the UK before making its way to Australia when its original owner emigrated in 1982. After a comprehensive restoration, the Porsche is in the hands of its second and current owner.
With values of early Porsches remaining consistently high, Shannons predict conservatively that this well-documented 356B 1600S Coupe will sell in the $150,000 - $180,000 range.
Jaguar’s E-Type remains one of the most desirable sporting classics you can buy and the extensively-refurbished Signal Red 1970 4.2 Series 2 Fixed-Head Coupe being auctioned with an extensive history file, represents a special opportunity.
Originally an American market car, this E-type was converted professionally to right-hand drive on arrival in Australia. It has subsequently been extensively restored both mechanically and cosmetically by marque specialists with no expense spared, with the present owner alone investing $75,000 in the Jaguar’s condition.
Starting on the button and driving as you would expect from a properly sorted classic, the E-Type is expected to sell in the $120,000 - $140,000 range.
From Bavaria comes one of the great sporting classics – a 1988 BMW E30 M3 Evolution II Coupe – build number 276 of only 500 examples made for racing homologation.
When created in 1985 by BMW’s Motorsport division, the original M3 with its 2.3 litre engine, Getrag close-ratio five-speed gearbox, firmer suspension and additional aerodynamic downforce was regarded as one of the world’s most desirable performance cars and was a favourite of many Formula 1 drivers.
To homologate further updates, BMW in 1987 introduced the Evolution II M3 incorporating mechanical changes that increased its power from 195 to 220hp.
This well-documented Misano Red BMW Evo II M3 was optioned with a factory sunroof, power windows and the on-board computer. It was delivered new in the UK and was one of a small number of M3s converted to right-hand drive by a local specialist prior to its delivery.
With world values of these early M3 still rising, this highly desirable and rare Evo II is expected to sell in the $100,000 - $120,000 range.
Right up there on the desirability scale is a 1965 ‘Stepnose’ Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT Coupe that has been upgraded mechanically to Veloce specification.
Presented beautifully in its factory-correct crisp white paint and contrasting black vinyl upholstery, this most desirable example of early Alfa Romeo’s classic 105 coupe is expected to command $70,000-$85,00 when it crosses the auction block on Monday.
As an alternative for the Alfisti, there is a rare, right hand drive 1966 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Coupe in older restored condition that is expected to sell for $28,000 - $36,000.
From the United States and expected to sell for similar money ($75,000 - $85,000), there is stunning 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe.
This fantastic example of Chevrolet’s classic ’57 model has been comprehensively restored and upgraded to show-level condition.
Finished in period-correct two-tone Surf Green and India Ivory, the Chevrolet’s drivetrain has been significantly upgraded, with a rebuilt 350-cid V8, Turbo 350 transmission and disc brake front end to ensure that it is a much better driving experience.
Finally, for enthusiasts who have always wanted a Maserati, there is a very low kilometre 1996 Ghibli 2.8 Litre coupe crossing the block on Monday.
Tastefully finished in its original Grigio Silver Metallic with blue leather upholstery, this stylish Italian GT with its quad camshaft, 2.8 litre, twin turbo V6 engine comes to auction very much as it left the factory, with only 29,195km showing on the clock.
Because of its rarity as one of just 2,303 Ghiblis built (only around half were 2.8 litre models), desirability as a true Italian exotic and its exceptional condition, the Maserati is expected to sell with ‘no reserve’ in the $40,000 - $50,000 range.
View all Shannons March 4 Summer Classic Auction Lots
For more information on the auction contact Christophe Boribon on (03) 8588 0809, or 13 4646 (Option 5) or email auctions@shannons.com.au.
Protect your Classic. Call Shannons Insurance on 13 46 46 to get a quote today.
