Rare D-Type Vauxhall heads Vintage and Thoroughbred classics in Shannons Melbourne Auction
• Period correct vintage Vauxhall with full local history
• ‘To the Manor Born’ Rolls-Royce 20/25HP Sports Saloon
• Great selection of T-series MGs
A superb 1920 Vauxhall 25HP D-Type Tourer fitted with a superb period-correct ‘Kington’ tourer body is a highlight of Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic Auction on July 1.
The Vauxhall was originally sold to New Zealand and remained in the hands of the same family until 1979, although its original coachwork was replaced during this time with a lightweight body for beach racing.
The D-Type was in this configuration when it was brought to Australia in the 1980s, where it was acquired by its current owner in 1989 and has since been restored by him in the past decade.
As part of its total refurbishment, the Vauxhall had its ‘racing’ body replaced with a more period-correct Kington body, which was painted in the same green with black mudguards combination that the vehicle was believed to have worn originally.
Because of its meticulously-restored condition, world-market desirability and eligibility for many local and International vintage events and rallies, Shannons expect this rare D-Type to sell in the $100,000-$125,000 range.
For those ‘To the Manor Born’, Shannons also have a patinated 1933 Rolls-Royce 20/25 fitted with stylish H.J.Mulliner Sports Saloon aluminium coachwork that is identical to the vehicle in the popular television series.
The Rolls-Royce was in the hands of its previous owner for 60 years before being acquired by the vendor, who has left the car’s bodywork and original tan leather seats with their delightful patina, untouched.
The Rolls has benefitted from an engine rebuild and a new clutch and according to its owner the vehicle runs quietly and smoothly, with a smooth clutch action and superb steering and brakes.
Shannons expect this beautiful and striking 20/25HP model to sell in the $42,000-$48,000 range.
Finally for pre-War sports car enthusiasts, Shannons have a 1937 MG TA that has just emerged from a complete and thorough restoration by its current owner.
Because of is excellent condition and collectable importance as the forerunner to the MG TC, the TA is expected to sell in the $35,000-$40,000 range.
Alternatives in the auction for MG T-series enthusiasts are a late-model 1953 MG TD2 Roadster ($25,000-$30,000) and a 1954 MG TF 1250 ($32,000-$38,000) – both vehicles, like the MG TA, offered in excellent restored condition.
