Charterhouse will put an intriguing selection of rare ‘barn finds’ under the hammer when it hosts its first classic car auction of the year on March 9
Taking place both online and live at The Haynes International Motor Museum near Yeovil, the auction catalogue boasts something for every taste – from a 1925 Buick to a handful of modern classics. However, the most prevalent theme has to be ‘barn finds’, with a great mixture of interesting lots – many of which have been off the road for a number of years.
Two Minis from the same deceased estate caught our eye; a 1993 Mini Italian Job Special Edition, one of just 1000 cars built, and a 1999 Mini Cooper Sport, both offering a rare opportunity. Equally appealing, though, is a 1978 Mini 1000. This one has covered just 25,500 miles from new and is expected to generate bids between £5000-£7000.
Several cars emerging from storage for the first time in years could also prove popular on March 9; including a 1982 Lotus Esprit 3, guided at £14,000-£18,000. However, three lots with no reserve also grabbed our attention; an Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 IE, a Ford Granada Ghia 4×4 and a 1967 VW Beetle. All three have been kept in commercial storage and are now for sale as part of deceased estates. Each requires recommissioning, but they could form the basis of interesting projects.
Not every car on offer here has been in storage, however. Two roadworthy British classics worth consideration are a 1960 MGA 1600 Roadster, kept by the same owner since 1970 and restored some 20 years ago (guided at £15,000-£18,000). And a Triumph GT6, also retained in long term ownership, has been the subject of extensive recent expenditure totalling more than £11,000. That makes its estimate of £12,000-£14,000 seem very reasonable indeed.
Finally, of the more modern models going under the hammer, come two practical load-lugging estates. A 1993 Mercedes-Benz E220 Estate seven-seater is anticipated to sell for less than £2000, while a 1997 Ford Scorpio Ultima TD is guided at £2000-£2500. Both could be used every day and are likely to appreciate in value over the coming years.
Visit charterhouse-auction.com to view the full catalogue.
