Classics bring big dollars at auction

Eager bidding at Shannons Sydney Spring Classic Vehicle Auction on October 12 saw a number of classics bring prices well beyond initial high estimates.

This reflected the interest in classic vehicles being maintained despite global economic circumstances, and revealed that the "no reserve" concept at auctions has the ability to lift the value of sought-after classics.

Star performer was a white 1960 356B Porsche that sold for $67,000 -- which was $19,000 more than the pre-auction high estimate.

The original-condition Porsche had been in the hands of the same owner since 1964 and featured sought-after embellishments such as Rudge knock-off wheels and a fitted leather suitcase.

German technology also featured in a 1986 BMW M6 coupe complete with Getrag five-speed gearbox that brought $25,000, while England's previous glory was reflected in a 1959 Jaguar Mark II -- complete with wire wheels -- that brought $13,500; a 1997 XJ8 3.2 selling for $18,000 and an MGA 1600 Mk 1 sports car that sold for $18,500.

American muscle cars were typically omnipresent, with a 1966 Plymouth Sport Fury coupe -- with a damaged engine -- bringing $25,000, a 1962 Pontiac Tempest convertible achieving $13,500 and a left hand drive 1971 GMC 1500 Custom Pickup selling for $20,000.

Australian muscle cars were in evidence too, with a spotless, recently restored 1976 Holden Torana SS 5.0 V8 hatchback selling for $57,000.

And let's not forget the gleeful bidder who picked up an as-new 1991 Harley Davidson FLSTC, with just 8881km on board, for $14,000.

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