Wide range of barn finds, road ready classics to be offered at auction

(March 21, BIRMINGHAM, England — More than 80 lots will be going under the hammer in Silverstone Auctions’ sale at the Practical Classics Restoration Show Saturday, March 28.

Taking place at the NEC in Birmingham and reflecting the theme of the popular show, the sale will offer a range of barn finds as well as more road ready landmark classics. From a charming 1968 Austin Mk 2 Mini Van that has covered just 302 miles and has been virtually unused for 47 years, to a 1936 Jaguar SS DHC restoration project that is supplied with an extensive history file, the diverse selection of cars is sure to appeal to classic car collectors everywhere.

Other highlights include a 1959 Jaguar XK150 S (pictured above) that has already received wide interest from potential buyers; no surprise given that it requires little more than the exterior finishing to restore it to its former glory. With the value of this model rising considerably, this example represents a great opportunity for collectors to tailor a landmark British classic to their very own tastes and is estimated at between £52,000 and £60,000.

Among the many classics in quality condition is a 1988 Ferrari Testarossa, pictured at right. Presented in striking Rosso Corsa and having covered just 27,000 miles, the car is in fantastic condition. When considering its estimated price of between £80,000 $(78,000) and £90,000 ($135,000), this car could make a great long term investment as Testarossa values rise in the market.

A 2001 BMW Z8 will also be offered; anticipated to fetch between £75,000 ($112,500) and £95,000 ($142,500), this beautiful car represents retro styling with the performance and refinement of a modern supercar.

Nick Whale, managing director of Silverstone Auctions looks forward to the sale: “We are delighted to be returning to the show and to have attracted such high interest in another of our sales. The sale provides a valuable opportunity for collectors to purchase a fantastic selection of restoration projects as well as cars in finer condition.”

Collectors in search of something quintessentially British will also find themselves spoilt for choice. A beautifully restored 1980 Aston Martin V8 is expected to be highly sought after and to sell for between £75,000 and £90,000.

One of 17 Porsches on offer at the sale, a 1959 Porsche 356A Cabriolet which featured in Classic and Sports Car in May 2004, this classic is anticipated to sell for between £65,000 and £75,000.

For those keen to purchase a classic with a story to tell, a 1976 Daimler Sovereign 4.2 is sure to be appealing. Previously owned by Major Hugh Skillen, he was a highly decorated army major and was also closely associated with Bletchley Park and the Enigma code breaking saga. With an intriguing history, this car is estimated at between £14,000 and £16,000.

For those unable to attend the sale in person, buyers can register to bid on cars online through three platforms including Proxybid, Live Auctioneers and i-Bidder. Bidding can also be made via phone or by leaving a commission bid with Silverstone Auctions prior to the sale.

To find out more about Silverstone Auctions and their sale at the Practical Classics Restoration Show, visit: http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-restoration-show-sale-2015

Formed in 2011, Silverstone Auctions is a world-class, specialist auction house for the sale of classic cars, modern supercars, all types of competition cars, modern and historic motorcycles as well as automotive memorabilia.