(July 29, 2014) SILVERSTONE, England — Silverstone Auctions achieved its highest ever total sales value, more than £5million ($8.45 million), and secured some world record prices in its two day sale at the Silverstone Classic last week, where it achieved a sales rate of 85 percent.
Wowing the crowds, a 1979 Ferrari 308 GTS in wonderful condition was successfully hammered away for a premium inclusive £82,225 ($138,960), more than £50,000 over its lower estimate and a world record for the model. Not to be outdone, a 1989 Ferrari 328 GTS sold for a premium inclusive £77,050 ($130,214), breaking another world record. More modern Ferraris also proved popular, with a 1996 Ferrari 456 GT selling for £49,450 ($83,570), nearly double its lower estimate.
However, it wasn't just Ferraris that caught the attention of the crowds at the sale, which took place at the Wing, Silverstone. Topping the bill was a 1950 Healey Silverstone, pictured at top, which sold for a total of £212,750 ($360,000), while a 1996 Jaguar XJ220, aptly presented in Silverstone Green, sold for £187,450 ($316,790), more than £17,000 over its upper estimate. A rare and highly stylish 1953 Bristol 403 Saloon also raced past its estimate, eventually selling for £62,100 ($105,000).
Speaking after the sale, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: "It’s been a fantastic weekend at the Silverstone Classic and I’m delighted that we have achieved our highest ever sales value, along with a few world records, from what was our best catalogue ever.”
Some unique and very special lots were also on offer. From the world of motorsport came Sir Jackie Stewart’s first ever race car, a 1962 Marcos GT Xylon, which sold for £41,975 ($71,000), pictured above. From the skies two pieces of RAF history were offered, a 1976 Harrier Jump Jet and a 1988 Panavia Tornado. Both lived up to their pre-sale excitement, selling for £105,800 and £36,800 respectively.
Whale added: "I’m pleased we’ve been able to secure such good prices for our vendors and we’re very much looking forward to our new sale at Salon Privé in September, into which some very exciting cars have already been consigned.”