Although Silverstone Auctions may dominate the headlines with its impressive high-end collection of racing heroes and rare curiosities, there’s been plenty more on offer within the dealer halls of the Classic Motor Show.
The NEC Classic Motor Show is offering a fantastic selection of great value classic cars up for grabs, attracting enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Throughout the weekend, a record number of cars have been purchased by new owners. After spending far more time than we should have drooling over the cars for sale, here are our top picks for those seeking to fill their garage with a prime investment.
1960 Austin Mini Countryman De-Luxe – £29,995
To those hunting down a special Mini, other than genuine rally examples, they rarely come with more clout than a pre-production. This one is believed to be the second oldest surviving Austin Mini Countryman, rolling off the production line on June 16, 1960. As the Heritage certificate confirms, the Mini was supplied new to London in Tartan Red to a Mr John Buck.
This sort of sale rarely appears, making this a unique opportunity – one of only five pre-production Minis of the earliest type with the straight gearlever, floor start and internal tank, still wearing its vinyl shroud. It’s only had four owners and covered a lowly 78,000 miles. Resting in a concours condition, this would put most museum vehicles to shame.
1976 Corvette Stingray – £24,750
For those seeking a slice of all things American, you’ve got more Mustangs to choose from at the NEC than any stud farm. However, for something a bit more brutish we would heartily recommend hunting down this bright orange Corvette Stingray. Immaculate in every way, you won’t find anything for this price that will turn as many heads.
1974 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk1 – £49,995
You may baulk at the price, but this particular Ford Escort Mk1 has been treated to a total nut and bolt restoration. Like new both inside and out and with a full history, including pictures of the rebuild, everything that could be kept original has been retained. You’ll find a tuned Pinto engine under the hood, although the original engine is offered for sale alongside the car. Look familiar? It’s based on the original Corgi model.
1995 GT40 Replica – £74,995
Although likely to upset the purists, this replica by Tornado is certainly one for the collectors. Built and correctly registered in 1995, employing GT40 alloys with 225⁄55 ZR17 rear tyres and 215⁄55 R17 fronts – there’s even proper GT40 spinners to cover the wheel nuts.
However, with Xenon lights and air conditioning, contemporary use for the school run wouldn’t be out of the question. With a lush classic grey leather interior and Willans harness seat belt, alongside SW instruments and the correct right-hand gearchange, it’s the perfect combination of everyday comfort and retro racing splendour. Dressed with Ford Racing rocker covers and braided and silicon hoses, you’ll fool everyone bar the seasoned GT40 spotter. Compared to the cost of original vehicles, the £75k price tag seems something of a steal too.
1991 Ferrari Testarossa – £157,500
We don’t need to tell you the benefits of Testarossa ownership. All you need to know is this one hasn’t even broken the 26,000 mile barrier yet. It’s cleaner than Donald Trump’s official FBI track record…
1995 Porsche 993 RS Club Sport – £282,500
If a bright red Ferrari doesn’t do it for you, how about this Porsche with genuine racing pedigree? It’s even had a price slash, down from £307,500. With the money saved, you could get yourself one of several faultless Range Rover Classics also on the stand. Talk about a fair deal.
See more: https://petrolicious.com/articles/huge-variety-at-classic-motor-show