Classic car auction to warm up winter

A Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost that was built just after World War I will be the headline act at the Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic auction, to be held on July 13.

The ‘Ghost’ has been the subject of an older restoration and comes with an expansive Australian history, having been delivered to these shores early in 1920.

Upon delivery the Rolls was given an open tourer body by local coachbuilder Kellow-Falkiner, before commissioning UK builders Salmon & Sons to construct a closed body for a European tour from 1925-27. Famous motor trader Lance Dixon subsequently owned the car, reverting the Rolls to open bodywork in the 1970s.

“The Silver Ghost is right on the button. It’s a beautiful example with fascinating history,” Shannons National Auctions Manager Christophe Boribon told motoring.com.au.

In the current ownership since 1993, the Ghost is estimated to sell for between $260-320,000.

From the same collection comes an imposing 1935 Hispano-Suiza K6 Limousine, one of 134 estimated to have been built on the longer of two wheelbases.

Retaining its original Vanvooren body – a coachbuilder honoured at the 2013 Pebble Beach concours – this French masterpiece needs requires some commissioning before use, “but it will be a rewarding project, with a high level of global event eligibility,” explained Boribon. Its estimated selling range is a tempting – at least compared to restored prices – $60-80,000.

A quartet of American drop-tops is headed by a highly sought-after 1961 Corvette. Presented in black with contrasting silver scallop and stunning red vinyl interior, this particular example also comes with the rare hardtop, while under the bonnet is a mechanical fuel-injected 4.6-litre (283ci) V8 producing 235kW.

“It was the highest specification 283ci engine available before they went to the 327ci for 1962,” said Boribon. Remaining authentically left-hand drive, the ‘Fuelie’ is estimated at $70-80,000.

There’s also a desirable 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air ($50-60,000), 1958 Cadillac Eldorado with $51,000 spent on mechanical refurbishment ($40-50,000) and a 1965 Pontiac Catalina ($30-40,000).

Aussie muscle is represented by an odd-ball Bolwell Nagari. Retaining its desirable ‘matching numbers’ specification and 5.8-litre V8, this green 1973 example is expected to earn $50-60,000, Boribon calling it a “beautiful example”.

More affordable among the 37 vehicle lots is a 1967 Ford Cortina ‘440’. Offered at no reserve, this little Cortina was found in a Cohuna barn four years ago. Cosmetically refreshed, the estimated selling range is between $6000-10,000.

A number of desirable number plates and automobilia are also listed for auction, which takes place in Shannons’ Cheltenham, Victoria showroom from 7:00pm. Bidders can also register to buy online or bid over the phone.