Rare 'Barnfind' Aston DB6 Vantage heads classic ‘projects’ in Shannons May Online Auction
- Exciting David Brown-Era Aston Martin ‘Barnfind’ from the estate of its long-term owner
- Desirable Holden HQ LS Coupe, could make rewarding project
For enthusiasts with the skill and enthusiasm there are several tempting classic ‘projects’ amongst the 240-plus lots in Shannons upcoming autumn online auction from May 23-30.
The absolute highlight is a rare 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage coupe that is coming to market in project condition from the estate of its long-term owner.
Finished in its original Platinum White with contrasting Black Connolly leather interior, the Aston needs mechanical and cosmetic work to resurrect it to its original factory glory.
Equipped with the desirable manual gearbox, its features include the more powerful triple Weber Vantage engine, chrome wire wheels with triple eared wheel spin-offs, a heated rear screen and a power antenna for its radio.
Originally delivered in Britain, the DB6 made its way to Australia by the late 1970s with 51,000 miles on its odometer, changing hands several times before being acquired by its late owner in early 1981 at 62,556 miles.
Driven sparingly over the past 42 years, the DB6 showed just 67,513 miles, before being taken off the road and today presents in prime condition for a full restoration.
While its paintwork needs attention, its bodywork and structure appear to be in sound condition and the car comes with a full inventory of parts, carefully documented and labelled as they were removed for restoration by a marque expert.
A replacement 3995cc six cylinder engine has been overhauled recently to full Vantage specification, however the original engine block accompanies the car.
With values of David Brown era Aston Martins rising rapidly in recent years, Shannons expect the Aston to attract strong bidding in the $200,000-$250,000 range from Australian and overseas enthusiasts, as a fully restored DB6 today could be worth up to $700,000.
Another project in the auction awaits the purchaser of a 1972 Holden HQ Monaro LS 253 Automatic Coupe, which although complete, also requires a total restoration to realise its full potential value. The difference between it and the DB6 is the entry price, with Shannons estimating that the Monaro could sell to a local enthusiast for $65,000-$80,000.
A smaller and potentially rewarding task awaits the purchaser of a red 1954 MG TF 1250 Roadster that is expected to sell in its ‘project’ condition for $15,000-$20,000, but with a sympathetic restoration could be worth several times that, as values of ‘TF’ series cars have risen internationally in recent years.
