• Stunning Australian-delivered DS21
• Very rare Hoffmann-bodied 2CV
• No reserve’ 1961 Renault Floride
France has been very much in the news this past week and Shannons will keep the Tricoleur flying with several chic vehicles going under the hammer at Monday’s (May 2) Melbourne Autumn Auction.
Two dramatically different Citroëns are offered in the auction – a striking black, and very desirable 1970-model DS21 sedan and a very rare 1971 Hoffman-bodied 2CV Cabriolet.
Meanwhile for Francophiles with Champagne tastes, but a Blanc de Blanc budget, there is a ‘no reserve’ stylish red 1961 Renault Floride Convertible.
The Australian-delivered DS 21 has been extensively refurbished in recent years and now presents in exceptional condition, with strong cosmetics and mechanicals.
Fitted with the optional five-speed gearbox, the car has been repainted black, fitted with all new red leather upholstery, a new windscreen and headlamps, new roof lining, seals and new suspension spheres. The engine was fitted with a reconditioned cylinder head during the refurbishment process, while new rack and pinion steering also installed.
With values rising in recent years, Shannons expect this well-sorted and very chic Citroën to sell in the $24,000-$28,000 range.
Also chic and even more unusual is a rare ‘Hoffman’ variation of the classic ‘Deux Chevaux’.
Developed by Wolfgang Hoffmann of Germany in the early 1970s for 2CV enthusiasts wanting more comfort, the Hoffman Cabrio was available either as a kit or as a complete factory-built car from the company’s Hohenfurch workshop.
The car being auctioned is one of just three known examples in Australia and one of 250 2CVs converted from new in-house, as opposed to being retro-fitted. It is also one of 200 left-hand drive cars made, guaranteeing it attention in any car park.
According to its vendor, the Citroën is in excellent mechanical condition and has a rust-free body, with the conversion and engineering certificates both supplied.
Perfect for a French car collector or enthusiast, the Hoffmann 2CV is expected to sell in the $22,000-$28,000 range on Monday.
Finally for French car enthusiasts on a budget, there is a rare and well-presented red 1961 Renault Floride convertible.
While retaining its period bodywork, the Floride has been upgraded mechanically with four-wheel disc brakes, while its rebuilt front end and later, more powerful 1108cc engine make it more usable and enjoyable in modern traffic.
Although survivors are few and far between, the Renault Floride owner is well catered for in Australia, with a strong club scene and numerous All French Car Days around the country.
The Floride is being offered with both hard and soft tops and runs well according to Shannons, who expect it to sell ‘sans reserve’ in the $7,000-$10,000 range.
The three French cars are amongst 45 Classic vehicles and 25 garagenalia items in Monday’s Melbourne Autumn auction, which will be held at Shannons Cheltenham Showrooms at 321 Warrigal Road from 7pm.
All lots can be viewed over the weekend from 9.00am - 4.00pm on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday.
View all May 2 Shannons Melbourne Autumn Classic Auction
Protect your Classic. Call Shannons Insurance on 13 46 46 to get a quote today.
