Bonhams Goodwood Festival of Speed 2011 – Auction Report
Bonhams Goodwood Festival of Speed Auction Report – July 1, 2011
Report by Rick Carey, Auction Editor
Goodwood is good for Bonhams … and the other way ‘round.
With 95 cars crossing the block and 84 sold, Bonhams turned in a stellar 88.4% sale rate and $11,635,152 in total transactions.
Nineteen cars sold at or above their high estimate, 22.6% of the cars and the hammer bids on sold lots were 113% of the low estimates, both outstanding numbers that indicate a strong market running ahead even of the professional opinions of Bonhams’ specialists.
Goodwood during the Festival of Speed is an environment that seduces spectators to imagine becoming participants. Like Monterey, the excitement of the weekend (and its sister event, the Revival, in September) offers sights, sounds and smells that create a compelling atmosphere. That enthusiasm feeds the auction environment and Bonhams responds with an equally compelling consignment that spans the range of spectators’ resources, from under $10,000 to well into six figures.
In fact, thirty of the cars sold, 36%, brought hammer bids over $100,000; twenty-three (27%) were hammered at £100,000 or more.
A car for every taste is a common claim, but at Bonhams Goodwood it was nearly true. With cars ranging from a 1924 Bentley 3-Liter Speed Model (and a 1928 as well) and a pair of GP Bugattis to a Pagani Zonda C12S Roadster, the only category that came up short were antiques and Edwardians – and Bonhams has other sales that feature those.
There were several instances where very similar cars were sold, making it useful to present them in sequence so for this report the cars are grouped alphabetically by Marque.
Photos are courtesy of Bonhams; photographer credits where appropriate are in the descriptions. Results are translated from UK£ at rates from FRED, the Federal Reserve Economic Database. Bonhams Goodwood Festival of Speed 2011 – Auction Report (See Reference – Auctions Explained, A Note on Conditions and Character). Lot # 425 1929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Drophead Coupe, Body by James Young; S/N 111210; Engine # 111210; Red, Black fenders/Black leather; Black cloth top; Estimate $144,630 - $192,840; Visually maintained, largely original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $144,630 plus commission of 11.67%; Final Price $161,504 -- RHD. Three owners from new. Single carb, single cam, short wheelbase, rear-mounted spare, opening windshield with fixed posts, rollup windows. Doesn't appear ever to have been restored, and the better for it. Sound but aging paint, brightwork, wood and upholstery, a great car for tours that is said to run and drive well. While this result in dollars is generous it takes on more significance in GB pounds where its James Young coachwork adds local appeal. It's a neat car that is an economical contrast to the more sporty and rare spiders that are seen much more often at events and shows. This is a reasonable price for this car. Lot # 408 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ Coupe; S/N ZAR16200003000077; Engine # 1394230000051; Red, Black roof/Tan leather; Estimate $32,140 - $40,175; Unrestored original, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $53,031 plus commission of 14.55%; Final Price $60,745 -- Lefthand drive. Nearly new with 3,580 miles. Windshield delaminating, torn driver's door seal. Good paint and interior. Patrick Collection. These cars passed into a limbo of disinterest after their sensational introduction but if this transaction is any indication that has come to an end. They look odd, but they go like the furies are after them. This is a milestone result, even for the low miles. Lot # 426 1938 Aston Martin 15/98hp Short Chassis 2-Liter Drophead Coupe, Body by Abbott of Farnham; S/N D8/840/SC; Silver, Navy Blue/Blue leather; Black top and boot; Estimate $128,560 - $160,700; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $81,957 plus commission of 12.94%; Final Price $92,563 -- RHD. Navy Blue wire wheels, blackwall tires, rear-mounted spare, rumble seat, outside exhaust head pipes, windshield post mounted mirrors. An older but complete restoration with decent cosmetics showing little use and good maintenance. Largely confirmed ownership history with gaps in the 50's. The current presentation is attractive and highly usable. Attention to some details would quickly return it to competent show condition and its price is very reasonable for a rare and unusual model. Lot # 464 1954 Aston Martin DB2/4 Drophead Coupe, Body by Bertone; S/N LML/506; Engine # VB6E/50/337; Black/Beige leather; Black top; Estimate $803,500 - $1,124,900; Concours restoration, 1 condition; Hammered Sold at $883,850 plus commission of 10.27%; Final Price $974,646 -- Lefthand drive. One of two believed in this style and a total of eight Bertone-bodied DB2/4s built for 'Wacky' Arnolt. First owned by Mrs. Edith C. Field in San Francisco and displayed by her at Pebble Beach in 1955 where they won third place in class. Later acquired by GP driver Innes Ireland, then by David Clark in 1988 and the seller in 2007. Freshly restored to like new condition and impeccable. Catalog photos by Simon Clay. RM sold the other DB2/4 Bertone Drophead Coupe LML/504 at the Gene Ponder auction in 2007 for $847,000, then Gooding got $1,650,000 for it two years later at Pebble Beach, a price that begged comprehension. This result is appropriate both for the car and for its meticulous, fresh restoration. It is ready to be shown anywhere. Lot # 419 1960 Aston Martin DB4 Series II Coupe; S/N DB4/463/R; Aston Green/Black leather; Estimate $273,190 - $305,330; Modified restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $273,190 plus commission of 10.88%; Final Price $302,920 -- RHD. Polished alloy wheels with stainless steel spokes, blackwall tires, overdrive, updated R.S. Williams 4.2 liter engine with Webers, hardened valve seats, stainless steel exhaust, uprated suspension, polished engine details. Excellent older mechanical and cosmetic condition. Sold at Bonhams Aston Martin sale a year ago for $240,861 which was GBP 166,500 against GBP 188,500 all-in and GBP 170,000 hammer here. The enhanced specifications should make this a great driving car, a fact which the bidders balanced thoughtfully against the deviation from factory condition. Lot # 410 1963 Aston Martin DB5 Coupe; S/N DB5/1316/R; Engine # 400/1643; Dubonnet Red/Parchment leather; Estimate $112,490 - $144,630; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $369,610 plus commission of 10.65%; Final Price $408,982 -- RHD. Wire wheels, blackwall tires, overdrive, pushbutton radio. Tired old repaint with rust bubbles under the doors, scruffy engine, sound but aged and lightly soiled upholstery. Current owner since 1971 and little used since 1992. Runs but needs attention pretty much everywhere. Not the original engine. Oh, boy. This result can only be attributed to the "James Bond Effect" of last fall's sale of the Bond Aston by RM for $4.6 million. A restoration project -- or at least an expensive re-commissioning project with a less than fully satisfying conclusion -- this car is at least double the money it would have brought a year ago. Lot # 430 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Coupe; S/N DB6/2712/R; Engine # 400/2711; Blue/Grey leather; Estimate $80,350 - $96,420; Visually maintained, largely original, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $139,809 plus commission of 11.72%; Final Price $156,200 -- RHD. Chrome wire wheels, modern Becker Mexico stereo, 5-speed. Sound older paint and interior. Seat cushions creased and lightly scuffed. Tidy underhood. Engine and brakes rebuilt four years ago, suspension upgraded, stainless steel exhaust. A sound and presentable driver. Obviously the bidders thought more of this car than Bonhams, or me, paying a premium price in pounds and a staggering one in dollars. Auction magic at work. Lot # 424 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Volante; S/N DBVC/3651/R; Engine # 400/3136; BRGreen/Red leather; Red cloth top; Estimate $482,100 - $642,800; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $449,960 plus commission of 10.54%; Final Price $497,367 -- RHD. Long wheelbase. Chrome wire wheels, blackwall tires, multi-band radio, 5-speed. Restoration completed in 2004 with engine upgraded to Vantage specs and about 5,000 miles since. Done to showroom condition without going over the top. Catalog photo by Tom Wood. A very pretty car, maintained to reassuringly high standards following restoration and bought for an appropriate price, even something of a bargain in GB pounds. Lot # 401 1972 Aston Martin V8 Series 2 Coupe; S/N V8/10535/RCA; Engine # V/540/415; Black/Grey; Estimate $16,070 - $24,105; Visually maintained, largely original, 4+ condition; Hammered Sold at $8,356 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $9,610 -- RHD. Automatic, A/C, alloy wheels. Aged, used and not running. No Reserve. A project for the brave and determined, but potentially a usable driver if its lack of recent use doesn't prove too difficult and expensive to remedy. Lot # 422 1989 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante; S/N SCFCV81V5KTR15713; Engine # V/580/5713/X; Windsor Green/Parchment leather, Green piping; Green top; Estimate $160,700 - $192,840; Cosmetic restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $168,735 plus commission of 11.43%; Final Price $188,019 -- RHD. Alloy wheels, 'X-pack' 432hp engine, 5-speed, radio. Stored the first four years, cosmetically restored including repaint, top and interior in 2006, freshly serviced by Aston Martin Works Service. Sold at Bonhams Aston Martin sale in 2006 for $158,852, GBP 84,000 at the time against the GBP 117,000 all-in price here. Lot # 471 1924 Bentley 3-Liter Speed Model Tourer; S/N 401; Engine # 397; BRGreen/Green leather; Black cloth top; Estimate $192,840 - $241,050; Older restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $196,054 plus commission of 11.23%; Final Price $218,070 -- RHD. An original Speed Model with matching engine according to Michael Hay. This is a reproduction 2-door tourer body by James Pearce in the style of the original Vanden Plas done in the 70's. Apparently not used in recent history but nonetheless attractive and sound. Should be a straightforward project to return it to the road. One of the most charismatic cars on the road, a reliable and fairly fast road car with abundant appeal both to the casual enthusiast and to committed Bentley Boys. The fact it is a correct Speed Model with its original engine more than offsets the replica coachwork -- which most of these cars have anyway. Its price is appropriate to the car's quality, condition and history and will be worth considerably more when it's been 'fettled.' Lot # 409 1928 Bentley 3-Liter Speed Model Tourer; S/N ML1524; Engine # HT1626; Primrose, Black fenders/Black; Estimate $192,840 - $224,980; Visually maintained, largely original, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $184,805 plus commission of 11.30%; Final Price $205,696 -- RHD. Dual carbs, folding windshield, cycle front fenders, farm implement tow bar, C-type gearbox, brake servo. Owned since 1945 by Henry Gibb, then passed to his daughter, the seller here. Used at one point to till his fields in Northumberland (thus the tow bar.) Consistently maintained but aged and used throughout. Recent engine rebuild with new crankshaft, rods, clutch thrust bearing, oil pump and tires. Body from an Austin 12/6 Newbury, but matching engine and chassis. The history alone is enough to support a good portion of this price. This is a car that neither needs nor should ever have a restoration, a wonderful old cherished driver in the finest tradition of Bentley Drivers. The price appropriately balances its aged condition and its marvelous history. Lot # 414 1937 Bentley 4 1/4 Liter Allweather Convertible, Body by Van den Plas; S/N B7HM; Engine # T9BP; Cream, Black/Tan leather; Black top; Estimate $208,910 - $241,050; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $224,980 plus commission of 11.07%; Final Price $249,889 -- RHD. Single sidemount, fender mirrors, Lucas headlights, driving light. Overdrive added. Attractively restored and presented with good paint, chrome, glass, interior and top. Shows some age but also good maintenance and limited use. The first Vanden Plas body of this type on the 4 1/4 Liter chassis. Adaptable and usable coachwork on a quality chassis in nearly showroom condition add up to a handsome and very practical car for shows and tours. Its many positive attributes brought a strong but not unreasonable price. Lot # 474 1954 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback, Body by H.J. Mulliner; S/N BC71C; Engine # BCC70; Black/None; Estimate $192,840 - $241,050; Incomplete restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $433,890 plus commission of 10.56%; Final Price $479,690 -- RHD. An unfinished restoration project. Chassis, engine and driveline have been completed, but some time ago. Body is partially done and painted. No interior. Aside from that, it needs everything. This is letting your heart get way out in front of your head: the price paid is enough to acquire a well-restored, complete, running and driving example with a few years and miles on its restoration. Completing this project will be neither simple nor inexpensive. Bonhams was right in its estimates; the bidders got carried away with visions of the finished product and lost sight of their rapidly diminishing bank balance.
Lot # 465 1959 BMC PSV 5-Ton Race Transporter; S/N 5K1774147447; Red, White roof/Black; Estimate $48,210 - $64,280; Truck restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $49,817 plus commission of 14.84%; Final Price $57,209 -- RHD. One of about 20 built by BMC as mobile service school vehicles during the Mini's introduction. Later modified with a rear ramp and vehicle storage compartment for the Competitions Department. Restored in 2005 with Cummins diesel engine and 6-speed transmission, kitchenette, toilet and shower. Neat and orderly, with presentable cosmetics. RM got Wayne Carini to pay $55,000 for a similar ex-BMC transporter (but without the ramp) at Arizona in January 2010, a transaction effectively endorsed here although this example has been restored and is ready to use while that one was in need of much attention. Lot # 452 1925 Bugatti Type 35B Grand Prix; S/N BC31; Engine # 70; French Blue/Black; Estimate $642,800 - $803,500; Rebodied or re-created, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $626,730 plus commission of 10.38%; Final Price $691,814 -- RHD. Single sidemount, alloy wheels, single aeroscreen. The history of the Type 35 is inextricably woven into the fabric of the Bugatti Owners' Club and its long term owner Jack Perkins. Built on a chassis numbered 141 (probably 4721) but now carrying BOC number BC31 and the ex-Bunny Phillips engine raced at Indianapolis and the 1936 Vanderbilt Cup. Progressively developed by Perkins over many years and a regular Prescott hillclimb contender since 1954. Restored with Rod Jolley coachwork in the mid-90's, then displayed until December 2010 at the Haynes Motor Museum. Needs mechanical attention. Catalog photos by Otis Clay. Anyone who discounts the history of this Bugatti has no soul and less passion. It is a history of Bugatti preservation and enthusiasm over a half-century of the BOC, now returned to approximately its original appearance and welcome at any event with organizers worth their salt. Its price reflects its varied origins. Balanced against the Bunny Phillips cars sold at Pebble Beach in 2008 it is a bargain. Lot # 416 1926 Bugatti Type 37 Grand Prix; S/N BC78; Engine # 79; Black/Black leather; Estimate $192,840 - $257,120; Rebodied or re-created, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $286,046 plus commission of 10.84%; Final Price $317,061 -- RHD. Assembled in the late 80's on a Bugatti Club frame from original Bugatti engine (from 37112), gearbox, axles, brakes and radiator with a Bugatti Owners' Club chassis number. Black wire wheels, radiator stoneguard, single aeroscreen, single sidemount, Marchal headlights, no fenders. Done to excellent standards and showing age and use but still a car that will be driven with great pride and shown confidently at the end of a day's touring or hot laps. The pleasure of owning and driving this car is little diminished by the variable nature of its bits' origin and it offers strong value for the money at this price. Both the seller and the new owner got good value even 10% over Bonhams high estimate. Lot # 428 1973 Datsun 240Z 2.8-Liter 'Super Samuri' Coupe; S/N HS30100992; Engine # L28357616; Red, Gold/Red; Estimate $80,350 - $112,490; Modified for competition during restoration 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $80,350 plus commission of 13.00%; Final Price $90,796 -- RHD. Spike Anderson's first 240Z 'Samuri' racing conversion, thoroughly modified and amazingly successful in British Modsports racing in the early 80's. Restored in the late 90's to as-raced condition and still orderly, tidy and obsessively prepared and modified. Good cosmetics, including the full interior. Something of a legend among British racers and impressively restored and detailed, this is a whopping price for any 240Z but is put in perspective by Bonhams sale of its more famous and successful cousin, 'Big Sam', at Silverstone a year ago for $121,086. Lot # 432 1989 Ferrari 328 GTB, Body by Pininfarina; S/N ZFFWA20C000082244; Engine # 18633; Red/Beige leather; Estimate $48,210 - $56,245; Unrestored original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $67,494 plus commission of 13.57%; Final Price $76,654 -- RHD. Just 2,670 miles from new but stored for some time. Cosmetically good but will need comprehensive mechanical attention before being driven. Like the Testarossa from the same collection that sold earlier in this sale this 328 GTS brought a major premium for low miles and originality. Lot # 415 1967 Ferrari 330 GTC Berlinetta, Body by Pininfarina; S/N 10653; Engine # 07433; Red/Tan leather; Estimate $257,120 - $305,330; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $249,085 plus commission of 10.97%; Final Price $276,404 -- Chrome spoke Borrani wire wheels, blackwall tires, P/W, factory A/C. Restored to like new condition and essentially unused since the Swiss restoration in 2001. New engine bearings, electrical work and carburetor rebuild during recent recommissioning after storage. One of the most attractive and desirable Ferrari GT cars in excellent condition except for some uncertainty after the long layup, this is a representative price in GB pounds, but rich in the U.S., reflecting the weak dollar. Lot # 440 1991 Ferrari 348ts, Body by Pininfarina; S/N ZFFKA36C000087683; Engine # 24722; Red/Cream leather; Estimate $28,926 - $35,354; Unrestored original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $35,354 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $40,657 -- RHD. Full service history, good cosmetics. Catalog photo by Simon Clay. Bought reasonably in UK pounds but rich in today's market when converted to dollars. Lot # 482 1971 Ferrari 365GTC/4 Berlinetta, Body by Pininfarina; S/N 14807; Engine # 4390; Red/Black leather; Estimate $64,280 - $96,420; Older restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $88,385 plus commission of 12.73%; Final Price $99,634 -- Alloy wheels, 5-speed, A/C, cassette stereo. Represented as restored in the early 90's but now showing age and neglect on top of negligible use. A sound driver, but no more than that. No Reserve. Catalog photo by Simon Clay. Sold by Bonhams at Beaulieu in September 2004 for UK pounds 31,050, $55,825 at the time. Today's result following 6 1/2 years of ownership but no apparent use is UK pounds 55,000 hammer and 62,000 with commission, a result that reflects the appreciation even of less popular Ferraris in that period. The US price might be a little generous for this car's condition, but the UK price is right on the money. Lot # 436 1989 Ferrari F40 Berlinetta, Body by Pininfarina; S/N ZFFGJ34B000084482; Red/Red cloth; Estimate $514,240 - $562,450; Unrestored original, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $514,240 plus commission of 10.47%; Final Price $568,075 -- Sliding side windows. Low mileage, all original with regular service and maintenance including new fuel cells in 2010. Ferrari Classiche certified. This is market price for a typically low miles F40. Doesn't anyone drive these things? Lot # 420 1987 Ferrari Testarossa ; S/N ZFFTA17C000069265; Engine # 250; Red/White leather; Estimate $48,210 - $56,245; Unrestored original, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $61,066 plus commission of 13.95%; Final Price $69,583 -- RHD. Seat cushions lightly stretched. Barely used with just 14,009 miles but stored for many years, with all the uncertainty that brings. The bidders seem to have satisfied themselves that the condition offsets the need for substantial re-commissioning costs and updated maintenance. The GB pound price is generous, the US$ equivalent is beyond that. Lot # 439 1986 Ford RS200 Coupe, Body by Ghia/Tickford; S/N SFACXXBJZCGL00156; Engine # GL00156; White/Black Alcantara; Estimate $112,490 - $160,700; Unrestored original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $183,198 plus commission of 11.32%; Final Price $203,928 -- RHD. Mid-mounted turbocharged Cosworth BDA, all wheel drive, Hella rally lighting. Displayed from new and with 1,095 miles. Described as a "rally-specification" engine which suggests 500 or so hp. Catalog photo by Tom Wood. This is championship money for an RS200, GBP 27,000 ($44,500) more than RM got for one in similarly nearly pristine condition at Amelia in March. There's no attributing this price to a weak dollar, just a strong appreciation of the 'Killer Bee" Group B mid-engined, crazy engine rally cars. Is it worth $50 Large more than the Lancia Delta S4 sold earlier today? Apparently the bidders thought so. Strong car; strong money. Lot # 481 1957 Ford Thunderbird Convertible; S/N D7FH275803; Engine # EC26015C; Red, White hardtop/Cream; Estimate $32,140 - $40,175; Cosmetic restoration, 3- condition; Hammered Sold at $31,337 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $36,037 -- 312/245hp, automatic, wheel covers, porthole hardtop, whitewalls. Cosmetically restored with good paint, older interior and clean undercoated chassis. A sound and presentable T-bird. No Reserve. Catalog photo by Simon Clay. Sold by Bonhams in London in December 2005 for $33,011 and seemingly little used since, this is a reasonable price for a usable T-bird. Lot # 407 1990 Heritage Lister-Chevrolet Replica Knobbly Sports Racer; S/N HL14777; Metallic Blue /; Estimate $35,354 - $48,210; Facsimile restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $41,782 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $48,049 -- RHD. There is very little other than its V8 engine's location and appearance about this car that resembles a Knobbly Lister. Its specs, however, are impressive: Chevron-developed tube frame and adjustable suspension, high performance GM parts engine, Holley 4-barrel, dry sump, AP disc brakes, Minilite centerlock alloy wheels, dual oil coolers, removable full roll cage, and much more. It will make a thunderous noise, but is more akin to a sprint car than anything else. Finding some place where it can be used will be a problem and it is amply valued at this price. Lot # 448 1963 Jaguar XKE SI Roadster; S/N 879471; Opalescent Blue /; Estimate $64,280 - $80,350; Modified restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $61,066 plus commission of 13.95%; Final Price $69,583 -- RHD. Dunlop-style centerlock alloy wheels, XJ6 brakes, upgraded suspension, Getrag 5-speed. US car converted to RHD with a succession of upgrades and repairs that offers little confidence about its construction but offering the promise of some impressive performance and handling once its many modifications are reconciled. Body and interior restored in 2001. One of the most desirable of all XKEs, let down by an apparently uncoordinated series of hop ups and accordingly discounted by astute bidders. The seller got all this car was worth and should be satisfied. Lot # 417 1961 Jaguar XKE SI flat floor Roadster; S/N 850305; Engine # R31689; Opalescent Dark Blue/Grey leather; Black top; Estimate $88,385 - $120,525; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $75,529 plus commission of 13.19%; Final Price $85,492 -- RHD. Chrome wire wheels, blackwall tires, pushbutton radio. Restored in 1987. Good older paint, chrome and upholstery. Polished engine details. A lightly used older restoration with some needs. Bought for $68,915 at this sale in 2007 (GBP 34,500), this is a modest result for a flat floor XKE, even in today's weak dollars. Today's pound price of GBP 53,200 similarly reflects the healthy appreciation in value which these early XKEs have achieved and should be considered reasonable even if 15% under Bonhams low estimate.
Lot # 423 1967 Lamborghini 400GT 2+2 , Body by Touring; S/N 1141; Engine # 1139; Burgundy/Beige pigskin; Estimate $160,700 - $192,840; Visually maintained, largely original, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $176,770 plus commission of 11.36%; Final Price $196,858 -- RHD. Ex-Paul McCartney. One of four imported by Mitchell & Britten and converted to RHD by Hooper. Odometer shows 45,384 miles, probably correct from new. Repainted a while ago and otherwise original with some mechanical attention as needed and new Borrani wire wheels in the 1980's. Very clean, sharp and nearly like new. This is a reasonable price for this Lamborghini's condition and originality and it reflects little if any premium for the celebrity ownership and righthand drive in a UK sale. It is a sound value and the new owner should be very satisfied. Lot # 427 1986 Lancia Delta S4 'Stradale' Coupe; S/N 117; Engine # 98; Red/Tan; Estimate $128,560 - $160,700; Unrestored original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $144,630 plus commission of 11.67%; Final Price $161,504 -- Lefthand drive. Mid-mounted air-air turbocharged/supercharged 1,759cc 16-valve four, all wheel drive, 400+hp. Effectively one owner from new and showing just 2,191 km. Freshly serviced including new cam and oil pump belts. Needs tires. Patrick Collection. A genuine 'Killer Bee' Group B rally car homologation special one of 200 supposedly built but less than 80 known. This is a driving experience that begs stoic contemplation before being put in motion. It is what it is and this is what it takes to own it, a bargain relative to more conventional supercars. Lot # 459 1966 Lancia Flaminia Super Sport Berlinetta, Body by Zagato; S/N 826232002111; Engine # 8262002115; Dark Grey/Red leather; Estimate $176,770 - $200,875; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $160,700 plus commission of 11.50%; Final Price $179,181 -- Exceptionally well and consistently restored to like new condition. Flat panels, even gaps. Like new underhood. Typical 60's Italian interior presented in nearly like new condition. Open headlights, steel wheels with big hubcaps. A choice piece. 2.8 liter, 152hp. Sold by Bonhams at Rétromobile in 2010 for $126,962 (GBP 78,800 at the time; the result here is GBP 111,500 with commission, GBP 110,000 hammer.) It will embarrass 250 GT Ferraris and 3500GT Maseratis with its performance and the bodywork is second to none. This price is appropriate for the thinking man's 60's Italian GT. Lot # 463 1961 Lotus Elite Series II Coupe; S/N 1628; Yellow/Black; Estimate $44,996 - $54,638; Competition restoration, 3 condition; Hammered Sold at $53,031 plus commission of 14.55%; Final Price $60,745 -- RHD. Climax FWE, dual Webers, braced roll cage, racing seats. Raced for years, restored in Germany in the 90's, the prepared again by Neil Twyman last year. Sold by Bonhams at its London auction in April 2010 for $68,608, GBP 44,950 at the time and GBP 37,800 today. A competitive production race car at a realistic price and something of an expensive proposition for the seller who had it checked by Twyman and gained just a single result at least year's Silverstone Classic with it. Lot # 418 1952 Mercedes-Benz 300S Cabriolet; S/N 18801000044/52 (see text); Metallic Burgundy/Cream leather; Cream cloth top and boot; Estimate $289,260 - $321,400; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $329,435 plus commission of 10.73%; Final Price $364,789 -- Chrome wheels, wide whitewalls, Becker Nürburg radio, fitted luggage. Chassis number mis-match on frame (00055/52), ID plate (00044/52) and documents (00044/52). Restored to high standards in the U.S. twenty-five years ago with a quality later repaint, interior, top and new interior wood. Very clean and sharp. The bidders didn't seem to be discouraged by the mis-matched numbers and paid full retail in pounds for this car's sharp presentation, a price that translates into a generous amount of US$ in today's exchange rate environment. Lot # 406 1947 Morgan 4/4 Drophead Coupe; S/N 1628; Black/Black; Black cloth top; Estimate $28,926 - $35,354; Recent restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $24,105 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $27,721 -- RHD. Blackwall tires, steel wheels, hubcaps, sliding pane side windows, banjo-spoke steering wheel. 1,267cc Standard 4-cylinder. Decent restoration with sound body, paint, chrome and interior. Clean and orderly underhood. Not like new, but rare and attractive. One of just 50 or so dropheads built by Morgan on the 4/4 chassis, and a moderately priced rare addition to any British or Morgan collection. Lot # 479 2004 Pagani Zonda C12S Roadster; S/N ZA9C820C110F76041; Engine # 1209831203219E100; Pink/Black; Estimate $321,400 - $401,750; Original, modified for competition or performance, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $466,030 plus commission of 10.52%; Final Price $515,044 -- RHD. C12S updated to F specifications in 2008 with 602hp at 6,150 rpm and 560 lb-ft torque. Top speed? 214 mph. Color? 'Elvis Presley Cadillac Pink'. Nearly like new. Catalog photo by Simon Clay. Elvis would have loved the color scheme. Not too many others will, but among them were the successful bidder and an underbidder and that's what auctions are made of. Lot # 412 1959 Porsche 356A Convertible D, Body by Drauz; S/N 86005; Silver/Black leather; Estimate $112,490 - $128,560; Older restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $131,774 plus commission of 11.83%; Final Price $147,362 -- Chrome wheels, blackwall tires. Restored like new in 2003 and recently freshened. Still fresh and sharp with excellent paint, chrome and interior. The intelligent buyer's alternative to a Speedster. The taller windshield, comfortable seats and rollup windows meant more enjoyable driving in marginal weather while retaining much of the style and appeal of the Speedster. This is a handsome price reflecting a quality restoration, careful maintenance and little use since it was done. Lot # 431 1964 Porsche 356C 1600SC Coupe; S/N 219234; Engine # 820796; Black/Black velour; Estimate $44,996 - $54,638; Modified restoration, 2+ condition; Hammered Sold at $44,996 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $51,745 -- Modified for rallying with big Cibie driving lights, racing seats, large fuel tank, skid plates, oil cooler, roll cage, close ratio gears and more. Fresh engine rebuild. Looks like it's ready for more miles. There's nothing to argue with about this transaction which is fair to both parties. Lot # 441 1969 Porsche 911E 2.0-Liter Coupe; S/N 119200582; Engine # 119200582; Signal Orange/Black, Houndstooth; Estimate $38,568 - $44,996; Older restoration, 2- condition; Hammered Sold at $43,389 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $49,897 -- RHD. Fuchs wheels. Catalog photo by Simon Clay. A nice interim example of the 911's early evolution with the early 2.0 engine and later long wheelbase chassis. A good value at this price. Lot # 435 1988 Porsche 959 Coupe; S/N WP0ZZZ95ZJS00222; Red/Black leather; Estimate $257,120 - $289,260; Unrestored original, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $241,050 plus commission of 11.00%; Final Price $267,566 -- Featured on 'Top Gear' and in 'Octane' magazine in 2010. Serviced before the features, wheels refurbished and new tires fitted after (!). Stage 2 performance engine management chip. Nearly like new. Something of a value at this price in dollars and a real value in UK pounds, the new owner should count him(her) self very fortunate to have one of these rare (292 built) all wheel drive supercars. Lot # 429 1969 Shelby Mustang GT500 Fastback; S/N 9F02R483162; Engine # R482CJ500; Competition Orange/Black vinyl; Estimate $136,595 - $152,665; Recent restoration, 2 condition; Hammered Sold at $115,704 plus commission of 12.08%; Final Price $129,685 -- 428/400hp, automatic, A/C, P/S, P/B, pushbutton radio, 5-spoke alloy wheels, 3.00 Traction-Loc. Non-standard color used by Carroll Shelby when new with four owners from new. Restored in the UK a few years ago and like new. In the US this is a $100,000 car, which it would be today but for the current weak value of the dollar to the UK pound so while this result undoubtedly reflects some premium for its time with Shelby behind the wheel and the custom paint color, its apparent value in US$ is much more than the result in the UK reflects. Call it a reasonable compromise. Lot # 460 1965 Sunbeam Tiger MkI Roadster; S/N 9473267/HRSFE; Engine # 5253F21KA; Black/Black; Estimate $33,747 - $40,175; Modified restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $30,533 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $35,113 -- Hardtop, Minilite 8-spoke alloy wheels, driving lights, bucket seats, big fuel tank, sump guard, roll cage, hardtop, 3.2 limited slip, adjustable shocks. Modified to take advantage of the 260 Ford V-8's performance and attractively restored and maintained. This is a good value and a small fraction of the cost of a comparable Cobra. It is bought smartly at this price. Lot # 494 1966 Sunbeam Tiger MkI Roadster; S/N B382002095LRXFE; BRGreen/Black; Black cloth top; Estimate $32,140 - $40,175; Older restoration, 3+ condition; Hammered Sold at $36,158 plus commission of 15.00%; Final Price $41,581 -- 289 V-8, Edelbrock crank, Hurst shifter, Minilite-style alloy wheels. Restored in the late 90's with good paint, chrome, interior and top. A clean, well maintained driver. The second Tiger sold here and the more expensive of the two, probably on account of the extra horses from this one's 289 V-8.
[Source: Rick Carey; photo credit: Bonhams]
Lot # 474 1954 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback, Body by H.J. Mulliner” . . . the bidders got carried away with visions of the finished product and lost sight of their rapidly diminishing bank balance.”
We depend on bidders like these, hundreds of them, maybe thousands, with their over-optimism, to rescue and preserve cars like this, so that po’ boys like you and me can see them in their original glory.
I owned the Bertone Aston Martin that is in this post, ( LML 506 ) from 1979 until 1984. I have a lot of history about it if the owner will contact me.