Standout Classics At Shannons Sydney Sale

SYDNEY – March 31, 2011: Shannons have a number of ‘standout’ British and European classics crossing the auction block in Sydney on Monday, May 2.

Pride of place for Citroen lovers is a quirky 1985 Citroen 2CV6 sedan in exceptional condition that is being sold with no reserve.

The current owner, who is now in his 80s and can no longer drive, originally purchased the ‘Deux Chevaux’ from a collector who had stored it under his house with just 460km on its odometer.

The vehicle has now done 154,000km, but the fastidious owner has maintained it in top condition, initially fitting a waterproof gasket between the 2CV’s body and chassis to guard against future rusting and replacing or repairing most major mechanical parts in recent years.

Post-War economy classics have been making big money recently at Shannons. A 1990 2CV6 Charleston in similar condition sold at last year’s Sydney Summer Auction for $40,000, while a 1960 Fiat 500 made $31,500 at Shannons recent Melbourne Autumn Auction.

Shannons are projecting a guiding range of $16,000-$20,000 for the 2CV6.

From Germany comes a beautifully presented and very original 1958 Borgward Isabella Coupe that had been sitting in a shed for 32 years prior to being purchased by the current owner two years ago.

The car has since been fitted new carpet and headlining and has had the motor reconditioned.

The red and white vinyl interior is in original condition, with the exception of its new period-style steering wheel and the formerly grey bodywork has now been professionally repainted in eye-catching Firewine (Candy Apple) Red, resulting is a very stylish classic. Shannons are quoting a selling range of $18,000-$24,000.

From Britain there is a beautiful, Concours-winning 1955 MG TF 1500 Roadster presented in fully-restored condition.

Finished in its striking and original colour scheme of Ivory with red leather interior, the TF comes with a documented history including a certificate of authenticity from the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust. It is expected to sell in the $32,000-$38,000 range.

These three classics are amongst 27 vehicles and 21 items of memorabilia currently listed for the May 2 Sydney sale. Twelve of the vehicles including the 2CV, three Mercedes-Benz sedans, an MGB GT Coupe and five Holdens, including a desirable 1975 HJ Monaro 253-cid V8 coupe, are being offered with no reserve price.

The sale also includes four sought-after NSW black and white enamel numberplates, headed by ‘109’ and ‘241’.