The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

Classic 'Z' for No Reserve at Shannons


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)

MELBOURNE – February 25, 2010: Classic cars that elicit a strong emotional response are bringing big prices at classic auctions today.

British car lovers are paying maxi money for Minis; Italian enthusiasts are fanatical about Fiat 500s and Americans shell out serious money for Shelbys.

At Shannons recent Sydney Summer sale, a low kilometre late model Citroen 2CV once described as ‘the most intelligent application of minimalism ever to succeed as a car’ sold with no reserve for an astounding $40,000 – well over its pre-auction estimate.

Its design brief in the 1930s called for ‘a low-priced, rugged umbrella on four wheels that would enable two peasants to transport 100kg of farm goods to market at 60km/h, wearing clogs and across ploughed fields if necessary’.

No one then dreamed that 2CVs would one day upstage Ferraris outside chic boutiques and would be worth more than some exotic BMW and Mercedes-Benz models.

At Shannons upcoming Melbourne Autumn Classic Auction on March 15 it could happen all over again for a classic gold, 1970 Datsun 240Z coupe that is similarly being offered with no reserve.

One of the most sought after Japanese cars ever made, the original Datsun 240Z was so good it even went back into production a second time, with the release of re-manufactured examples to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the original.

Adding to its appreciating value, this sporting icon officially celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, with the first examples going on sale in Australia in March 1970.

The Datsun’s combination of Ferrari GT0-inspired styling, great handling and its smooth, powerful overhead cam six-cylinder engine – not to mention its incredibly low price – proved irresistible to buyers around the world, making it an instant classic.

With race and rally-proven credentials, the 240Z is now a popular choice for historic motor sport, while very original examples write their own ticket on the collector market.

Delivered new through Fred Armfield Moors in inner-Melbourne Footscray, the 240Z being auctioned is believed to be one of the most factory-correct examples available in Australia.

Despite its 40 years, it still retains important original items such as its seatbelts, radio, its set of very rare ‘D’ hubcaps and the luggage hold down straps in the rear compartment.

The car’s Goodyear Supersteel tyres are straight out of the late 70s and look like they were fitted yesterday, while the muscular 2.4 litre six cylinder engine retains its original air cleaner. The car’s Owners’ Manual, Factory Warranty Certificate and Service Booklet are included in the sale.

Because of its originality and excellent provenance, Shannons expect this 240Z to sell in the $15,000-$20,00 range. But like the 1990 model Citroen 2CV6 sold unreserved in Sydney, it could easily go for a lot more.