OLDTIMER GARAGE AUSTRALIA P/L

Details:
The latest offering from Oldtimer Australia is this delightful 1971 Maserati Indy.
The documentation on file from Maserati confirms that this UK delivered, factory right hand drive example was completed on the 17th June 1971 and delivered new to London. The car was originally delivered in Verde Indy (green) with a nero (black) interior. It was delivered new in the desirable specification of a 4.7 litre engine with a ZF 5 speed manual gearbox.
This cars early UK history is not known. There is a V5 on file which notes that Mr Simon Edwards from Chester, just south of Manchester in the UK, acquired the car on the 16th September 1998. In his ownership the car was regularly serviced by Auto Shield, the Maserati service dealer in Manchester. The history file contains most MOT records dating back to 1993. The earliest MOT is dated 2nd March 1993 and at that time the mileage was 57,288 miles and the colour of the car is noted as blue. That confirms that back then it was finished in the stunning Maserati colour of celeste chiaro as it is presented today.
In Edwards ownership significant work was done to bring this Maserati Indy back to its former glory. In 2001 Auto Shield engaged the services of Classicarco in Manchester to undertake a cosmetic restoration. Significant metal work was required and once complete the car was repainted. There is a batch of detailed photos on file showing the work completed. In 2003 the differential was reconditioned and in 2004 the cylinder head was reconditioned.
In October 2008 Edwards sold the car through Ian Grange Ltd to Tim Fleckney from Tideford, near Plymouth in the south west of England. At that time the odometer read 76,722 miles. Fleckney kept the car for the next 10 years. In his ownership the car was used sparingly but regularly serviced. In his 10 years of ownership, he only drove the car approximately 2,500 miles.
The current Melbourne based owner acquired the car in July 2019 and at that time the odometer read 79,182 miles. There is an import approval on file dated the 10th September 2019. Prior to shipping the car to Australia it was tested for asbestos and that led to the replacement of the brake pads, the exhaust manifold gaskets, the carburettor base gaskets and the oil sump gasket.
The owner kept the car in the UK, using it from time to time, before shipping it to Australia in April 2021. Prior to that the car was serviced by 24 Hundred in Southborough, UK. At that time the water pump and the air conditioning pump were both reconditioned and the front wheel bearings were replaced.
Upon arrival in Australia the car was complianced in Queensland and registered.
The air conditioning system in the car was somewhat temperamental and in June 2023 a new compressor was installed. In May 2024 the thrust bearing was replaced and the car was serviced. All the maintenance work in Australia has been completed by Maranello Pursang in Brunswick, Victoria.
Maserati Indys are under rated. To quote Classiche Masters . . . This quintessential Grand Tourer is combining room for four adults and a large trunk with a sleek, handsome design. They offering a relatively refined driving experience but you always know it is a Maserati at heart.
Our test drive of this Maserati Indy was chanced between two of the four seasons in one day experienced on a crisp Melbourne spring morning. We were time poor and after priming the fuel pumps, on queue the big V8 burst into life at the first turn of the key. That distinctive Maserati V8 rumble gets the pulse racing. It is easy to get comfortable behind the exquisite timber steering wheel. The seating position is good and all the controls are easy to hand and to operate. Pulling out of the storage facility into busy traffic you note the power steering as the car manoeuvres easily at low speed.
The first impressions of this car are good. It is certainly tight on the road and even when cold the gearbox performs very well. As with all Italian classics the drive gets better and better as the car warms up. The engine has plenty of power on tap and its sounds absolutely majestic. The ZF gearbox feels firm and the gear changes are really precise. The brakes work well and pull the car up efficiently and in a straight line under heavy braking. In summary the car performed very well.
The car carries an older restoration, however, it has only travelled 11,000 miles since that was completed. From a meter the paint work presents exceptionally well, however, on closer inspection there are a number of minor defects consistent with age. There is plenty of chrome trim on a Maserati Indy and it is generally in very good condition. The balance of the external trim is similarly well presented. This car has at some stage been wax oiled and on close inspection you will notice some yellow staining in door jambs and other nooks and crannies around the car.
The 14 Borrani wheels are a feature on a Maserati Indy and on this car they present quite well. There is no major damage or kerb rash, just a few minor marks here and there. The Maserati trident embossed wheel centres show light pitting. The wheels are shod with Pirelli Cinturato CN36 205/70/14 tyres all around. The tyres are date stamped 07/18 (week 7 2018).
The interior of this Maserati Indy shows some light patina in places, however, it is generally well presented. The black upholstery is in good condition with no rips or tears evident and the seats provide ample support. The door cards, dash and centre console are also in good condition. The steering wheel has some minor damage at around seven oclock, however, this is not noticeable as you drive the car. You will notice in the photos that the leather piece around the horn button has pulled free. This is currently being repaired. The carpets show light wear. The instruments and controls present well and look to be in working order. We absolutely love the original Maserati branded Autovox Melody Stereo R which actually works.
Open the rear hatch and you will notice that this Indy is fitted with a pull down blind that will enable you to cover the contents of the boot. The boot presents quite well and there is a correct spare wheel under the boot floor.
Under the bonnet the engine bay is clean and really well presented. All the correct tags are in place and a quick look confirms that this car retains its original matching numbers engine.
Today the odometer reads 79,617 miles.
Flared denim jeans and a corduroy shirt are optional, but there is no doubt it would complete the look!
Highlights:
- Desirable spec Indy with a 4.7 litre engine and 5 speed manual gearbox.
- Well presented example in a lovely original Maserati colour.
- Good history file
- Ready to be used and enjoyed.
Price $119,950.
Background:
The Maserati story is a fascinating one. It is the story of a family with daring, courageous and forward-thinking ideas. The story starts with Rodolfo Maserati, a railway engineer who was employed by the Italian monarchy and the father of seven sons who all had a passion for engine design and racing cars. The Maserati brothers all became involved in the automotive industry in some way or another, however, it was on the 1st of December 1914 that Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto Maserati officially opened Alfieri Maserati Workshop in Bologna, Italy.
Maserati chose the trident logo to adorn its cars. Its design was based on the Fountain of Neptune in Bolognas Piazza Maggiore. The colours chosen for the logo were also the colours of Bologna, red and blue.
The business was focused on repairing, servicing and preparing cars, however, the World War cut business short and it wasnt until 1926 that Maserati built its first car, the Tipo 26.
It was all about motorsport back then and in 1937 the Orsi family acquired ownership of Maserati which was in desperate need of financial backing to be able to survive. During the Orsi years Maserati grew from a boutique but very successful race car builder to one of the worlds leading manufacturers of hand-built sports and GT cars.
Maserati built its first road car in 1946 even though times were tough in post War northern Italy. The car was the Maserati A6 where A was for Alfieri and 6 for the number of cylinders. The initial reception of the car was positive and a production Maserati A6/1500 was then shown at the 1947 Geneva Motor Show.
This was a significant milestone in the Maserati legend and subsequent models included the A6G/2000, 3500 series cars, 5000GT, Mistral. Quattroporte, Mexico, Sebring and Ghibli. Maserati also continued to build very successful race cars that dominated tracks around the world including the 250F, 300S, 150S, 450S and the Birdcage.
Orsi sold to Citroen in 1968. At that time Maserati was already working on an 4 seater alternative for the 2 seater Ghibli. Both Ghia and Vignale showed their proposals in November 1968 at the Salone dellautomobile di Torino. Maserati preferred the Vignale design and the production model was officially launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1969. It was named Indy in honour of Maseratis two victories at the Indianapolis 500.
The Indy (AM116) was a great success for Maserati, in total 1,104 were produced over seven years of production which ended in 1975. 440 of them were fitted with the 4.2 litre quad cam V8, 364 with the 4.7 litre and 300 with the 4.9 litre. The car was available with either manual or automatic transmission.

1971 MASERATI INDY 4.7 Manual

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale a 1938 MG VA Tickford Drophead Coupe by Salmons & Sons, affectionately known as Vera.
This car is understood to have been manufactured in August 1938 and was delivered to its first owner in the UK shortly thereafter. There is a copy of a document titled: MG VA Cars 1937 1939 . . . The Survivors on file, which is dated 22nd February 1989. This notes the following information on this car: Year 1938, Registration MPL268 and Owner: White, AJC. Its subsequent early history is not known.
At some stage the car then fell into disrepair and it probably lay dormant for many years. It was purchased in poor condition, most likely in the late 1980s, which is when its restoration started. A decision was made to build a new body in aluminium, with only the original steel guards, running boards and bonnets retained. The Pre-War MG Register of Australia notes that the body was understood to have been built by Rod Jolly, who is highly regarded for his work restoring Rolls-Royce and Bentleys. Progress was slow and the cars then owner apparently ran out of money. The car was sold to MG S, V and W specialists, SVW Spares, in the UK. Shortly after this, in early 2007 the car was purchased by Robin & Jenny Page from Melbourne in Victoria. The project was at a point where the Pages were able to choose the paint and upholstery colours for the car. They made the decision to paint the car in two tone grey, fit a black soft top and trim the interior in maroon. This is a beautiful colour combinationgiving this VA a very elegant appearance.
In February 2008, Vera as this car was christened by the Pages, arrived into Melbourne. The name Vera was chosen by the Pages from the model designation of VA and the memory of English singer and entertainer Vera Lynn.
In March the car was taken to the 2008 MG Nationals which were held in Tamworth, where it won Class A: Pre-War Touring with an impressive score of 569 points.
Unfortunately not all was well with the little VA as in October of that year the car suffered a major engine failure, necessitating a total rebuild. During the rebuild the capacity was increased from 1,548cc to 1,657cc and the compression ratio increased to 8.6:1. At the same time the gearbox was also rebuilt and other mechanical work completed.
Over the years the Pages kept on improving their beloved MG VA Tickford Drophead Coupe. All that hard work paid off when in October 2012 the car was selected into Motorclassica, which was Australias premier Concours dElegance and classic car show. The car was very well received and it won the Pre-War (British and European) 1930-1939 class. That same year the car also won the Pre-War Touring & Saloons class at the MG National meet in Hobart. There it also won outright in the pre-MGA class.
Other achievements over the years are:
- 2010 1st place in class and outright winner at the MG car club Victoria Concours dElegance
- 2011 2nd place at Cars of the World Concours dElegance at Rochford Wines in Victoria
- 2014 Best Presented British Vehicle at the Great Macedon Grand Tour
- 2015 1st place pre-war class MG car club Victoria Concours dElegance
- 2015 Best Pre-War British Vehicle at the AOMC/RACV Classic Showcase.
After 12 enjoyable years of ownership and many great memories, the Pages decided to sell Vera. The car was sold to the current owners in January 2016. Like the Pages, they have thoroughly enjoyed their journey of ownership with this fabulous car. Unfortunately, they are selling due to ill health.
Today this 1938 MG VA Tickford Drophead Coupe still presents and drives beautifully.
The two tone grey paint work contrasts perfectly with burgundy upholstery and it is the perfect colour choice for the car. The paint work is now almost 20 years old, however, it is still in excellent condition. There are a few minor blemishes and defects, most noticeably two hairline cracks on the swage line on the left hand bonnet and a small star on the right. The panels gaps are all very good.
The interior presents beautifully. The timber dashboard houses the most elegant cluster of instruments that are in excellent condition. The upholstery is all in excellent condition with no rips, tears or obvious wear. Even the carpets are in excellent condition!
Under the bonnet everything presents beautifully. You will note the wheel hammer and original crank clipped on the bulkhead. There is what looks to be a complete tool kit in the boot.
The painted wire wheels are in excellent condition. All the wheels, including the spare, are shod with Blockley tyres, size 5.00 19. The tyres are still in good condition.
We were able to take the car for a test drive following our photo shoot. Like most MGs of that era it required a choke to start from cold. The engine fired pretty much at the first pull of the starter and it immediately settled into a smooth idle. Once it had warmed up we went for a short drive and I can confirm the car is tight on the road and it drove every bit as good as it looks.
The current owners wanted the car to be reliable and essentially be able to jump in and drive it to wherever they wanted. There is no doubt that they achieved that objective as the car was driven from Sydney to the Sunshine Coast which is where it is currently stored.
The Tickford three position folding roof is a work of art and it is in a very good condition. When we photographed the car the roof was not folded down correctly. We have since discovered the correct way to fold the roof down and it does so in a very neat and tidy way.
This car is fitted with a factory replacement engine as noted on the engine ID plate, which we understand was installed many years ago. MG aficionados will note the replacement engine is burgundy in colour, as they were, whereas the original engines were painted green.
Accompanying the car is a toolkit, a crank handle, a history file with receipts and photographs of the restoration, a detailed list with some receipts showing all the work completed to the car since it was acquired by the previous owners as well as various books and MG literature.
Highlights:
- Beautifully presented example of a quintessential British prewar sports car.
- Rare and unique Tickford DHC.
- An older restoration that still presents beautifully.
- Fabulous colour scheme.
- Ready to be used and enjoyed.
Just a fabulous example.
Price: $114,950
Background:
MG is one of the worlds most iconic motoring brands.
In 1912, with the support of the Earl of Macclesfield, William Morris founded W.R.M. Motors Ltd and started the manufacturing of Morris designed cars. In 1919 W.R.M. Motors was liquidated and essentially replaced by Morris Motors.
In 1921 Morris hired Cecil Kimber as a Sales Manager for Morris Garages and in 1923 he became the General Manager. Kimber had a vision and started building sportier versions of Morris cars and labelled them MG. On the 1st May 1924 Morris Garages registered the MG Octagon as a trademark.
Demand grew, which necessitated a move to a larger premises in September 1925. This was quickly followed by another move in 1927. By 1928 the business had grown so much a decision was made to separate it from Morris and the M.G. Car Company was established in March 1928. In 1929 the company moved to Abingdon and on the 21st July 1930 the M.G. Car Company Limited was incorporated.
The first cars to be produced under the name MG in 1924 were special bodied Morris Cowleys. The first MG to specifically compete in sporting events is a car now known as Old Number One. It was produced in 1925 and was first seen at the 1925 Lands End Trial. Other MG models followed quickly but in 1928 at the Motor Show at Olympia MG introduced the MG M-Type Midget, which became the first of many sports cars produced by MG and was a big success for the company.
In that same year MG also introduced the MG 18/80. This was the first MG with a chassis designed and built by MG. The 18/80 was equipped with a six cylinder engine with a capacity of 2,468cc.
A milestone for the company occurred in 1933 when an MG Magnette K3 became the first non-Italian car to win its class at the Mile Miglia.
William Morris owned MG personally and in 1935 he sold it to Morris Motors.
In the late 1930s MG produced a series of sports saloons, the VA, the SA and the WA.
The VA, originally marketed as the MG 1½ litre was the smallest of the three and was available as a 4 door sports saloon and as a 4 seater open tourer and as a drophead coupe. The sports saloon and the open tourer were both built inhouse but the body for the drophead coupe was manufactured by Salmons and Sons of Newport Pagnell, UK.
MG also made a special version of the VA, powered by a 1,707cc engine for police use.
In total 2,407 MG VAs were built between 1937 and 1939. The breakdown of body types is: 1,238 saloons, 591 open tourers and 564 drophead coupes, 2 chassis and 12 unknown.
In 1952 Morris Motors Ltd and the Austin Motor Company Limited merged and became The British Motor Company Ltd, BMC.

1938 MG VA Tickford Drophead Coupe

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale a lovely Australian delivered 1955 Bristol 403.
We have a copy of the Bristol Chassis Ledger and Bristol Advice of Despatch for this car on file which confirms this Bristol 403 was despatched from the factory on the 25th of April 1955 and send to Commonwealth Motors in Melbourne. The documentation confirms that this car was delivered in right hand drive, was dark green in colour (Scheme 6A) and optioned with a Trico screen washer, a front speaker only and an aerial. It also confirms that the car retains its original matching numbers engine.
It is understood Bristol built a total of 287 examples of the 403. Interestingly, this car is one 12-15 examples built that were fitted with a 100B2 type engine. This engine has a higher compression ratio and therefore more slightly more horse power. Cosmetically these later cars also had a few minor differences. They had side lights on top of the front wings and rear reflectors.
Whilst this car left the factory painted dark green, it is understood it was repainted in midnight blue by the Australian distributor at the request of the first owner. He kept the car for some three years before it was sold to Mrs Mison from Ulladulla in NSW. In her ownership the car was registered as BGO393. The car subsequently passed through owners in NSW, Victoria and later Queensland. By the mid 1970s the car was stripped to bare alloy in preparation for a repaint and some restoration work. Unfortunately, progress stalled and the car sat for many years. There is a photo on file dated December 1977 showing the car in bare alloy.
The current owners acquired the car as a project in that state from Robert Sciberras from Ryde (Sydney), NSW in July 1994. At that time the car was carrying the NSW registration PYY433.
The car was trucked up Mt Tamborine in Queensland and the work commenced to return this Bristol to its former glory. It soon became apparent that this project was not going to be as simple as just repainting the car. The car needed major mechanical work and the first hurdle was finding a solution for the cracked crankshaft. This was proving to be a challenge until one day the son of a neighbour of an old friend was visiting from England and he just happened to mention that he worked for Bristol. Some three weeks later a new crankshaft was on its way to Australia.
Progress was slow, but the owner continued to happily tinker away slowly restoring his beloved Bristol. Unfortunately, he suffered a health condition in 2012 which stopped progress on the car. Fortunately, the Bristol community in Australia is strong and they put the owner in touch with Bristol expert Sebastion Gross who agreed to take on the task of finishing the restoration. The car was transported to his workshop in Kendall, NSW.
An inventory was made of parts needed to complete the restoration and work commenced.
The engine was completely rebuilt using the new crankshaft and various other replacement parts. The gearbox and differential were also was completely rebuilt. The suspension as well as the entire braking system were reconditioned with mostly new parts, including a new brake booster. The cooling system was overhauled and the radiator was recored by Taree Radiators.
To make the car easier to drive an electric power steering unit was ordered from EZ electric power steering in the Netherlands and subsequently installed.
Unfortunately, the original wiring harness was in poor condition. A decision was made to order a new, upgraded, wiring harness from Vintage Wiring Harness in Ringwood (Melbourne), Victoria.
The interior was retrimmed using Connolly hide by Westport Upholstry in Port Macquarie, NSW.
The restoration of the dashboard makes for an interesting story. Gross was on a National Bristol Rally in Tasmania when he had the idea to make a new dash out of Huon pine. After a quick discussion with the owner, it was unanimously agreed to go that way rather than try to restore the original dilapidated dashboard. The work was done by wood worker Manfred Reihl and as you will see from the photos the end result is simply stunning. All the instruments were refurbished by Norwest Instruments in Rydalmere, NSW. The steering wheel was refurbished by Yesteryear Steering Wheel Restoration in Warragul, Victoria.
The body work and preparation for the paint work was completed inhouse by Gross. The car was painted by Harrington Smash Repairs and the bright work rechromed by Hamilton Chrome in Hamilton, NSW.
A significant amount of time, effort and money has gone into bringing this Bristol 403 back to its former glory. It is not feasible to list everything that was done to this car in this write up, however, what we can say is that the car has been comprehensively restored. There are detailed invoices and a suite of photos on file for the majority of the work.
Every restoration has its challenges, however, this Bristol had more than most! Additionally, in 2019 the car was almost destroyed in the John River region bushfires, which came perilously close to the workshop where the Bristol was then kept. A year later the worst floods in a 100 years swept through parts of NSW and by sheer luck the Bristol was removed from a paint shop which was subsequently flooded. COVID restrictions further hampered progress but the finish line was in sight and the car was finally completed in 2021.
Today this car presents and drives superbly and its restoration is a credit to everyone who was involved with the project. This car has an incredible presence and it attracts a lot of attention wherever it goes.
This Bristol 403 was displayed at the 2025 Noosa Concours delegance where it was very well received.
The car has been used sparingly since its restoration and as a result it presents essentially the way it did when the restoration was completed back in 2021.
These early Bristols are unique in design and absolutely stunning cars. One of the first things you notice when you walk up to this car is how smooth it looks. The shape is almost like a tear drop, from the flowing lines at the front, the clean lines on the side and the swooping rear. The absence of traditional door handles contributes to the overall clean look.
The Bristol 403 body is constructed from hand beaten aluminium panels fastened to a lightweight, tubular steel frame using the Superleggera constriction method. As a result, the restoration is both time consuming and expensive. The body on this car has been beautifully restored and all the panel gaps are excellent.
The paint is in beautiful condition with a strong depth of colour and a high gloss finish. One has to look closely to find any imperfections. There is some light gravel rash at bottom of the rear wheel arches. All the external trim, including the bright work, badges, lights and lenses are in excellent condition. The only exception are the side mirror mounting brackets, which must have missed out being rechromed! These are clipped on and can easily be removed. The glass is also in excellent condition.
The painted steel wheels are finished with chrome hubcaps embossed with the Bristol logo. The wheels are yet another unique feature to the Bristol and they present well with no kerb rash evident. They are shod with Michilin X 185R16 tyres which are date stamped 5016 (week 50, 2016). The tyres are still in good condition and present like new.
To open the door you press the large button on the side of the door. They require a firm push and then the spring loaded door will just pop open. The first thing you notice is how big the door actually is. Both doors have to be long enough to allow access for rear passengers and at the bottom they wrap all the way around the sill. Once you have opened the door the second thing you notice is how beautifully the interior presents. The tan leather upholstery provides the perfect colour contrast with the green exterior and gives the car a very luxurious feel. As with the exterior, there are many small details in the cabin which make the car unique. The steering wheel is one of them, whilst simple in design it is a clear reference to Bristols aviation heritage. The sun visors, both at the front and the rear of the car are another idiosyncratic design feature. The front ones have a very delicate scissor frame which folds out. The one in the rear is operated by a cable which hangs down from the roof inbetween the front seats.
The seats are in excellent condition with no rips or tears in the leather. They are comfortable and provide ample support. The rear seats appear to have hardly been used and are also in excellent condition.
Once we made ourselves comfortable behind the steering wheel and stopped admiring the dashboard, it was time to take this Bristol 403 out for a short test drive and a photo shoot. The big question . . . would the car drive as good as it looks? The simple answer is . . . YES!
To start the car from cold you will have to pull out the mixture control button and depending on how long it has been since the car was last driven, you may need to manually prime the fuel pump. Once you have done that you turn the ignition on and press the starter button. The car starts easily, even from cold, and quickly settles into a smooth idle. To prevent the spark plugs from fouling you push the mixture control button back almost immediately and feather the accelerator to warm up the engine further.
Once out on the open road you dont have to drive too far to realise that this is just a fabulous car to drive. The EZ electric power steering is an absolute delight. The steering is light yet it still has a responsive feel. The straight six cylinder engine is only 1,971cc , however, it probably has around 100 hp on tap. For a sports saloon built in 1955 the performance is quite impressive and the uninitiated would think there is a bigger engine under the bonnet! The engine revs freely and willingly which makes for quite an engaging driving experience. The gear changes are smooth up and down the box and the feel is light years better than a Moss box in a Jaguar XK. For a relatively tall car it sits very well on the road. The suspension feels good, the steering is firm and the brakes pull the car up quickly and in a straight line when needed.
The car is also extremely quiet. There is hardly any wind noise or mechanical noise to be heard when you are just cruising around.
According to Jay Leno who ignored his own advice and bought a Bristol 403 over the phone, sight unseen, . . . only the finest gentleman buy Bristols He also calls it . . . the most British of British cars.
Jay Leno has one of the worlds greatest car collections and his opinion is very highly regarded. He loves his Bristol 403!
For its next custodian this is a unique opportunity to join the likes of Jay Leno and become a Bristol 403 owner.
The Bristol Owners Club of Australia is also a very active, holding regular events, rallies and social functions. They are also an excellent source for knowledge and information on the marque.
It is not often a Bristol 403 comes to market, let alone one in this condition.
Accompanying the car is a good history file with a copy of the Bristol Chassis Ledger and Bristol Advice of Despatch for this car, some period documentation and photos as well as invoices and photos pertaining to its restoration. There is also a spare wheel and a jack.
Highlights:
- Australian delivered, factory RHD, matching numbers example.
- Recently completed restoration.
- Beautifully presented car that is just fabulous to drive.
- Ready to be used and enjoyed by its next custodian.
Price $119,950.
Background:
The Bristol Car Company has a rich and fascinating history. Its origins date back to the Bristol Aeroplane Company (formerly The British and Colonial Aeroplane Company) that was founded in February 1910 by Sir George White, chairman of the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Company, along with his son Stanley and his brother Samuel, to commercially exploit the fast-growing aviation sector. The Bristol Aeroplane Company developed into a British industrial powerhouse and they built some of the worlds most technologically advanced aeroplanes. Some of the most well-known and successful aircraft built by Bristol were the Bristol F2 Fighter (used during World War I), the Bristol Bulldog and the Bristol Beaufighter (used during World War II).
Following the First World War the British aircraft industry suffered a dramatic downturn and subsequently significant financial challenges. In an endeavour to keep its workforce employed the Bristol Aeroplane Company undertook the manufacture of a light car, the single seat Bristol Monocar which was powered by a motorcycle engine, the construction of car bodies for Armstrong Siddeley and bus bodies for their sister company, Bristol Tramways. The company survived, but times were tough.
Aircraft manufacturing ramped up again with the outbreak of the Second World War, however, management had learned that they must plan for the future. It is understood that discussions started as early as 1941 to establish a post war car manufacturing division. Bristol began working with AFN Ltd, makers of Frazer Nash cars and British importer of BMWs before the war, on plans for a joint venture in automotive manufacturing. What ultimately eventuated was that the Bristol Aeroplane Company took over AFN Ltd and established its car manufacturing division, Bristol Cars. A purpose built factory was constructed at Filton Aerodrome, near Bristol.
The first Bristol was designated the 400 and not surprisingly given the Frazer Nash and BMW connection it was based on a BMW 326 chassis with BMW 327 styling. The engine, whilst built by Bristol, was also based on a BMW 327. The first prototypes were built in late 1946, however, the car was formally introduced at the 1947 Geneva Motor Show.
The car was a great success for Bristol and almost 500 examples were built through until 1950. This included 17 Drophead Coupes with coachwork by Pininfarina.
In 1949 Bristol introduced successor to the 400, the 401, which was designed and bodied by Touring of Milan in Italy. The new model was aerodynamically sleeker and featured superleggera construction with an aluminium body over a steel frame.
As a result the car weighed significantly less and its performance was greatly enhanced. Bristol was gaining a reputation for building technologically advanced motor cars that were luxurious, very reliable and offered genuinely exciting performance on the road. Their cars were not cheap and as a result they remained somewhat exclusive. Buyers of new Bristols back in the day were typically wealthy businessman who wanted a car to stand out in a crowd. They also wanted a car they could drive and enjoy and many Bristols were used for hill climbs and weekend motor racing.
Bristol developed the 450 specifically for motor racing and it made its debut at the 1953 Le Mans 24 hour race. Two cars were entered in the race, however, they both retired with engine failures after about 10 hours. Bristol returned to Le Mans in 1954 and entered three cars, with uprated engines and improved aerodynamic bodywork. In contrast with the previous year all three cars finished the race, coming home in first, second and third place in their class and seventh, eighth and ninth overall. Their performance also earned Bristol the team prize. Bristol returned to Le Mans again in 1955 and again performed exceptionally well achieving the same results as in 1954. The race became famous for the wrong reason when a major accident resulted in debris flying into the crowd killing 83 people and injuring many more. Following this race a number of manufacturers, including Bristol, retired from motor racing indefinitely.
Subsequent road cars included the 403 (1953-1955, 287 cars built), which was a further development of its predecessors, the 404 (1953-1958, 52 cars built), the 405 (1953-1958, 308 cars built and the 406 (1958-1961, 174 cars built).
Bristol Cars was sold after its parent company joined with other British aircraft companies in 1960 to create the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC), which later became part of British Aerospace.

1955 BRISTOL 403

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this very rare and highly desirable 1957 Aston Martin DB2/4 MKII.
The factory records on file confirm that this is an Australian delivered, factory right hand drive example that was delivered new to the Penfold family in South Australia. The car was delivered through Aston Martin agent D Brown (Australia) on the 8th July 1957. The original colour choice for this car was stunning. It was originally finished in sea green with a green interior, which is how the car is presented today.
This particular car is fitted with the desirable special series VB6J/***/L1 engine quoted as delivering 165 bhp, being 25 bhp more than the standard engine. It is also fitted with a larger sump.
The factory records note that a replacement engine, with the same number, was despatched to David Brown Australasia on the 13th November 1957.
It is understood that the Penfold family owned the car for many years. The history file picks up the ownership of the car in the 1980s when it was owned by former politician John Goss from Brisbane, Australia. It may well be that Goss acquired the car from the Penfold family. Goss used and enjoyed his Aston Martin for many years before selling to Donald Lane from Buradoo, near Bowral in the NSW southern highlands in 2001. The current Melbourne based owner acquired the car off Lane in c2005.
Over the last 20 years the current owner has used and enjoyed his Aston Martin as its makers intended. Even though the car presents beautifully, he is unashamedly a driver and not a polisher! To ensure the car is a reliable classic and available to be driven on a whim, he has had it maintained and regularly serviced. In 2017 the front Alfin brake drums were overhauled by TypeCast in the UK. In 2018 the cylinder head was overhauled. The car has been upgraded with a Jaguar differential to enhance drivability.
Today this Aston Martin DB2/4 MkII presents resplendently in its original colour scheme of sea green with a green interior. The current owner chose to remove the bumpers for two reasons. Firstly, to give the car that Aston Martin GT look and secondly to reduce the cars weight. The bumpers are heavy! The paint work, which was refreshed by Lane some 20 years ago, is in very good condition with some minor blemishes and stone chips evident. Its presentation is totally consistent with a well cared for car that gets driven. The external trim is minimalistic, particularly with the bumpers removed. The trademark Aston Martin grill is in excellent condition and a real feature.
The chrome wire wheels and spinners really compliment the paintwork beautifully. All of the wheels are in reasonably good condition with no kerb rash or damage. The chrome has started to pit/peel in places. The wheels are shod with Michelin X tyres, size 185R16 all around.
The cabin of the Aston Martin DB2/4 is quintessentially British. It is relatively simple, elegant and beautifully presented. The timber steering wheel is a feature and in excellent condition. The timber dash facia houses the cluster of Smiths instruments and both are also in excellent condition. The leather upholstery is soft and supple with no splits or tears. The seats are comfortable and provide good support. An Aston Martin DB2/4 has occasional rear seats which look to have been sparingly used.
Opening the rear hatch provides access to a large boot area. This area can be expanded by folding a panel down over the rear seats. There is plenty of room for the golf clubs here! The boot presents well, with very minor wear evident.
The massive bonnet hinges forward to reveal a beautifully presented engine bay, revealing the unique independent coil spring front suspension and chassis components as well as the 2,922cc Lagonda twin cam engine. The engine itself is a work of art, resplendent with polished aluminium features, traditional red cylinder head and proper finishes. Everything is neat, clean and tidy.
This Aston Martin DB2/4 MkII is a drivers car. The car starts easily, settling into a smooth idle without hesitation. Out on the open road it performs superbly offering a very spirited and rewarding driving experience. The engine has loads of power on tap and it pulls strongly through the rev range. The gearbox is tight and with a relatively short shift it provides slick gear changes. The car delivers a firm yet comfortable ride, direct steering and excellent braking.
Accompanying the car is an original leather bound Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II handbook, an original and well used workshop manual, a copy of a parts catalogue, a factory sales brochure, Aston Martin factory records and a thick history file with many service receipts.
There are also the original bumpers, which are in excellent condition, the original differential, a spare wheel as well as the jack and basic tools which are stored in the engine bay.
If you are looking for an early pre DB4 Aston Martin it would be hard to find a better example.
Aston Martin only built 199 DB2/4 MkIIs, of which 146 were saloons. Of these 146 cars only a small number would be factory right hand drive with the high performance engine.
This car presents exceptionally well and drives superbly.
Highlights:
- Rare Australian delivered, factory RHD example.
- Sold new to the Penfold family in Adelaide.
- Fitted with the desirable special series VB6J/***/L1 high performance engine.
- Fabulous, original colour scheme.
- Great driving car.
Price $364,950
Background:
Aston Martin has produced bespoke sports cars for over 100 years. The company began in 1913, when founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford realised their desire to build distinctive, high quality sports cars that were both exhilarating to drive and a beauty to behold. Martin regularly competed in hill climb races at Aston Clinton, and a simple combination of the name of the event and the driver gave birth to one of the most famous automotive marques. Source: www.astonmartin.com.
Whilst Aston Martin produced some wonderful cars in their early years, business was always a struggle and the company was severely disrupted during both World War I and II. The company went bankrupt on more than one occasion and has endured many different owners throughout its history.
David Brown acquired Aston Martin in February 1947 and the first car produced during his ownership was the Aston Martin 2 Litre Sports, later known as the DB1, which was built in extremely limited numbers from 1948 to 1950. This was succeeded by the Aston Martin DB2 in 1950, which featured a new double overhead cam straight six engine of 2.6 litre (2580 cc) capacity, and was a car that really put post war Aston Martin on the map. Some 411 cars were built from 1950 to 1953, of which circa 100 were the convertible or drop head coupes. Its successor, known as the DB2/4, was first shown at the London Motor Show in 1953 and production started soon thereafter. Initially the car had the same engine as its predecessor, however, it was enlarged to 2,922cc in April 1954. Compared to the DB2 the DB2/4 had an extended roof line with a larger rear window, a one piece curved windscreen and real bumper bars. The biggest difference between the two cars was inside the cabin where the successor had far more roomwith two small occasional rear seats. The DB2/4 sold well through until 1957. In total 764 DB2/4s were built which included 565 of the Mk Is and 199 of the Mk IIs. The biggest change for the Mk II was that the bodies were made in-house by the recently acquired Tickford Coachbuilding Works in Newport Pagnell, otherwise the differences between the Mk I and Mk II were subtle. The DB2/4 was available as a four seat fixed head coupe or two seat drop head coupe from the start of production with a two seat coupe introduced on the Mk II. The DB2/4 MkII was succeeded by the DB MkIII and 551 examples were built from 1957 through until 1959.
The David Brown era was arguably Aston Martins finest with the company winning LeMans in 1959 and the iconic early DB series cars of the 1950s paving the way for the legendary DB4, DB5 and DB6 models of the 1960s.

1957 ASTON MARTIN DB 2/4 MKII

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely magnificent 1963 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL.
The Fahrzeug-Daten (factory data card) and Produktions-Auftrag (factory production order) on file confirms that this factory right hand drive example was ordered new in New Zealand late 1962. It was in fact the 61st Mercedes-Benz ordered from New Zealand that year. The car left the factory on the 21st May 1963, which would make this one of the very last 190 SLs built.
The car was ordered in black (paint code 040) with a red interior (interior code 203) with single seats (option code 401). It was delivered with a roadster hard top (option code 413), US style front bumper with guards (option code 441), instruments in English and miles (option code 461), outside left and right rear view mirrors (option code 506) a Becker Brescia radio (option code 512), rear seats (option code 565), lights for left hand traffic (option code 613), export license plate (option code 621), whitewall tyres (option code 641), documentation in English (option code 681), a folding fabric soft top in grey (option code 736) and 10 litres of fuel (option code 317).
Documentation on file notes that the first owner was a Mr RA Stone from Auckland in New Zealand. At some stage the car found its way to Australia and into the ownership of Dr Frank Munro from Sydney, NSW. The car was sold to Mr Lachlan (Jim) Attrill from Sunshine, Victoria in March 1978. In May 1979 the car was registered in Victoria as ADP-112 and by August 1982 it was registered as BLE-701.
The third owner was a well known Melbourne based classic car enthusiast who acquired the car at the 1998 Shannons Grand Prix auction. At that time the car was still finished in its original colour of black.
After he acquired the car, it was taken off the road in preparation for a major restoration. The project commenced in earnest and he embarked on a nut and bolt rotisserie restoration on a mission to make the car as good as it could be.
The body was restored and painted by Peter Todd at Mentone Smash Repairs in Moorabbin. A major decision for the cars then owner was the colour. He chose to paint the car in Porsche Speed Yellow, which was a brave but fabulous choice. The engine block and head were rebuilt by Engine Action in Flemington. The engine was reassembled by Maurie Dodd.
The painted body shell was completed in March 2001 and the rebuild began.
The restoration was completed in September 2001and the car was then registered in Victoria as GEM-SL, just in time for the Mercedes-Benz ACT Concours dElegance held in Canberra. The car was incredibly well received and it won four trophies, including Best in Class, Runner Up Champion of Champions, Best Paint and Best Engine Bay.
The car was a multi concours winner at both the Victorian and ACT Mercedes-Benz Club Concours dElegance over the next four years.
The current owner acquired this car in circa 2009 and has used it sparingly throughout his ownership.
Incredibly this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL still presents as a freshly restored car, which is a testament to the quality of the restoration. Everything about this car is impeccable!
The first thing you notice is the colour. The yellow paint work is such a refreshing change from the ubiquitous white, silver or red. Whilst it looks stunning in the photos, it looks even better in the flesh! The paint work remains fresh and vibrant with an incredibly strong depth of colour. We struggled to find any blemishes in the paint. Even the hubcaps, which are prone to stone chips are in excellent condition. All of the external trim, including the chrome, lights and lenses are similarly well presented.
Completing the look is a factory hard top finished in pearl white. The soft top is black and in excellent unused condition.
The interior of the car is also beautifully presented. The red upholstery provides a perfect colour contrast to the yellow paintwork, particularly the dash. All of the instruments and controls, including the delicate trade mark Mercedes-Benz steering wheel present like new. Everything looks to be in working order.
Under the bonnet, the engine looks fresh and as though it was installed yesterday. Importantly, everything still looks to be correct.
It is likely that the boot has hardly seen the light of day and probably never carried any luggage. Like the rest of the car it is in exceptional condition. There is a spare wheel, jack and tool kit.
Even the underside of the car still presents like new!
Clearly this car has had little use since it was restored. It presents today like it has been stored in a glass case! Importantly, the current owner does regularly start the car and when the sun comes out just every now and then it gets some exercise.
On our recent test drive the car started easily from cold. There was a slight concern that this car may drive like a garage queen, but after a few very short miles that possibility was well and truly put to rest. The car drove superbly. The engine pulls strongly through the rev range and the gearbox is firm and precise. Importantly there are no rattles or squeaks. The more we drove it the better it went!
Highlights:
- New Zealand delivered, factory RHD example.
- Four owner car thats been in Australia for most of its life.
- Matching numbers.
- Restored to a concours standard by the previous owner.
- Multi concours delegance trophy winner.
- Ready show, use and enjoy.
Was für ein auto. . . einfach umwerfend!
Price: $329,950
Background:
Following the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Europes car industry was decimated. In Germany both Daimler and Benz went back to producing cars post-war, however, times were tough. A merger between Daimler and Benz would ensure that both companies survived and following a technical co-operation agreement in 1924, the companies formally merged on the 1st July 1926. Mercedes-Benz was born!
Subsequently, Mercedes-Benz went on to build some of the greatest cars of all time. The cars from Stuttgart bearing the three-pointed star all had one thing in common . . . they were renowned for their technical innovation, build quality, luxury and performance.
In the 1950s Mercedes Benz produced one of the greatest cars of all time the iconic 300 SL Gullwing and 300 SL Coupe. Whilst fabulous cars, they were very expensive and generally sold to the rich and famous. Mercedes wanted to build a sporting luxury car that still looked classical in the mould of the 300 SL, but it had to be affordable and the plan was to build such a car in far greater numbers than the exclusive 300 SLs. Enter the Type W121 or 190 SL as it became known in the mid 1950s. This model was an outstanding success and circa 25,000 cars were built over the next 8 years of production. The formula worked and Mercedes Benz carried it on with great success in the 1960s with the Type W113 230 SL/250 SL/280 SL models. This evolved into the Type R107/C107 280 SL(C)/350 SL(C)/380 SL(C)/450 SL(C) models built throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Mercedes-Benz marketed the 190 SL as . . . as sports car for all seasons.
To quote their website:
. . . Sporting elegance, safety and comfort with these qualities the 190 SL conquered a whole new circle of enthusiastic fans of dynamic driving. Mercedes-Benz unveiled the prototype of the 190 SL (W 121) at the International Motor Sports Show in New York in February 1954, alongside the production version of the 300 SL Gullwing. Although the two-seater roadster with folding soft top stirred passions, it was to undergo a further thorough revision by the Mercedes-Benz designers known at the time as stylists.
In March 1955, a full year after the New York premiere, the production version went on display at the Geneva Motor Show. Like its elder brother, the spectacular 300 SL Gullwing, the 190 SL rapidly became one of the most coveted dream cars of its day. Although less powerful than the 300 SL, it generated no less excitement and opened up the SL legend to a wider circle of customers. By 1963 sales had totalled 25,881 units.
And even long-distance drives were enjoyable thanks to the comfortable suspension. The handsome sports car for all occasions was particularly popular among female drivers, who appreciated not only the sporting elegance of its design, but also the open-air feeling that came as standard. With its easy-to-operate soft top and optionally available coupé hardtop, the 190 SL was the first SL to combine the possibility of open-top driving with absolute all-weather capability.

1963 MERCEDES-BENZ 190SL

Oldtimer Australia delighted to offer for sale an extremely rare factory, right hand drive Maserati Kyalami. This particular car was built in the most desirable specification, being powered by Maseratis 4.9 litre engine mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox. This car is one of only 10 examples ever produced in this configuration.
Maserati has confirmed this Kyalami was produced on 26th July 1979. It was delivered new into the UK and was sold through Modena Concessionaires Ltd in West Bromwich. The car was delivered in verde medio (light green) with a fungo (beige) interior. It was first registered on 23rd December 1982 and carried the plate BEA 71Y. The first owner is noted as Mr Michael Harris from London, UK.
The car had a few subsequent owners before it was acquired by Anthony Michaelson of Musical Fidelity fame from Wembley, UK in May 1988. The DVLA records on file confirm the car was repainted blue in his ownership. Michaelson enjoyed the car for five years, selling it in September 1993 at Coys auction.
In April 1999 the car was acquired by Troy de Leon from Warfield, UK. In his ownership a significant amount of work was done to the car. An invoice on file from Rossi Engineering in Sunbury-on-Thames dated 25th April 2000 confirms the engine was removed from the car and rebuilt, a new exhaust system was fitted, the bumpers were repainted, new front springs were fitted and the AC was recharged. The invoice noted the odometer showing 87,547 km at the time.
In June 2001, with the odometer reading 93,866 km, the gearbox was rebuilt by J.W.F. Motors in Wokingham, UK.
In September 2001 the car was repainted in its current colour of rame metalic by Evans Auto Repair Services in Warfield, UK. The invoice confirms this was a major project. Necessary rust repairs were completed, which involved new metal work as required. Under seal was applied to both sills, all the wheel arches, the front wings, the front apron, the rear wings, the inner arches, the arch guards and under the spare tyre bay.
In May 2004 the car was sold to Rupert Wilkes from Wisbech, UK. There is an MOT test certificate on file dated 9th March 2004 and at that time the mileage was noted as 99,201 km. Wilkes used the car sparingly throughout his ownership, as confirmed by the subsequent MOT test certificates and the Statutory Off Road Notifications (SORN) on file. An MOT certificate dated 8th February 2007 notes the mileage as 99,932 km, and one dated 22nd December 2009 notes the mileage as 99,959 km.
The current Melbourne based owner acquired the car in May 2018 and at that time the odometer showed 807 km (100,807 km). He initially kept the car in the UK before eventually importing it into Australia in 2021. There is an import approval on file for the car.
Before the car was shipped to Australia the clutch and spigot bearing were replaced, the carburettors were stripped, cleaned and rebuilt, the fuel tanks were removed and cleaned. The car was also serviced and all the fluids were changed. All that work was completed in April 2021.
After the car arrived in Australia a problem with the AC compressor was identified and in May 2023 the car was sent to Maranello Purscang Motors in Brunswick, Victoria to address this issue. A new A/C compressor was sourced and fitted. Some other minor issues were also addressed and the car was issued a roadworthy and subsequently registered in Victoria.
Shortly thereafter a knock in the engine became audible. After much deliberation with the team at Marnello Pur Sang it was decided that the engine needed to be stripped to diagnose the problem. The end result was a full engine rebuild with new pistons, bearings and other parts as required.
Today the odometer reads 03,536 km (103,536 km).
We love the understated, yet classical look of the Maserati Kyalami. We think the colour choice of rame metallic is absolutely perfect for this car. This period colour emphasis the lines on the car and gives it quite an elegant appearance. It also contrasts well with the beige interior.
Even though this car was repainted some 20 years ago, the paint work has held up well and it presents today with a strong depth of colour and nice gloss finish. On closer inspection, we noticed a few small imperfections on the car. Most noticeably, there is a small scratch on the right rear guard, a small a chip on the drivers side mirror and a small chip on the lower part of the drivers door. There are also a few small chips on the edge of the drivers door. The car looks stunning in the photos, but even better in the flesh!
All the external trim is similarly well presented. The bright work on the car is minimalistic, but a feature and it is in good condition. The badges are in good condition with only the slightest sign of some wear around the edges of the Maserati badge on the bonnet. The glass is all in good condition and the same can be said for the lenses both on the headlights and the tail lights. The bumpers on these cars are often cracked and show with minor damage, but on this car they present well.
The wheels are generally in good condition, though if you look closely there are a few small bubbles under the paint and there is a small chip on the edge of the left front wheel. They are shod with as new Michelin 205/70 VR15 XWX tyres which are date stamped 1621 (week 16, 2021).
Open the sweeping door and you are welcomed by a very elegant, functional, yet very Italian interior. First impressions are good. The interior appears to be original and overall it is in very good condition. The leather seats present well, are firm and provide ample support. The seats show some patina, but there are no cracks or tears in the leather. A good leather treatment could easily bring them up a level. The rear seats appear to have been rarely used, if at all and are still in excellent condition. The dashboard in a Kyalami is a real feature and it presents well. The dashboard is covered in Alcantara and that is not an easy material to keep clean. In this car it presents well and there is no discolouration except for a small area on the right bottom of the dashboard. All the instruments are clean and present well. They all appear to be in good working order.
As we prepare for our test drive, we settle in behind the Momo leather steering wheel. Finding a comfortable driving position is surprisingly easy. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, visibility is excellent and both the steering wheel and all controls fall naturally to hand.
It is with great anticipation we insert the key into the ignition to fire up the big V8. After allowing the fuel pump enough time to fill the carburetors you turn the key further to start the car. The engine cranks over easily and it fires up quickly with a bark. There is no need to use the throttle, the engine just catches and it immediately settles into a smooth idle. The engine sounds absolutely fantastic. It is kind of an Italian muscle car!
Whilst you could listen to the Maserati symphony all day, this car needs to be driven. Out on the wide open road is where it really belongs. This car is really a wolf in sheeps clothing. Whilst it is happy to cruise along in traffic, it relishes some open road with some open throttle! It is then that Maseratis 4.9 litre V8 comes to life . . . that Maserati sound is just something. One needs to remember it roots go back to the car of kings the 5000GT and the mighty 450S race cars. The engine in this car pulls like a train. It feels strong and the power delivery is surprisingly smooth. Whilst a Kyalami with an automatic gearbox is a nice car to drive, we just love the 5 speed manual gearbox and in this car it is very easy to use. The clutch is reasonably light, but with a good feel and the gear changes are smooth both up and down the box. This car handles well and the suspension feels firm, yet the ride is incredibly smooth and it easily absorbs any bumps in the road.
All too soon our test drive comes to an end. A Maserati Kyalami is not a small car, yet it is easy to drive and very comfortable.
It is immediately obvious that the target market for this car was the successful business man or woman back in the day. They would have appreciated the finer things in life, but wanted a car that offered the sophistication and class of a sports car combined with the refinement and practicality of a luxury saloon car.
This Maserati Kyalami is just a fabulous car that we are genuinely excited to offer for sale. The overall condition and presentation of this car is consistent with a car has been cherished by its previous owners. The car offers incredibly good value for money and it is reluctantly offered for sale by its current owner. It is ready for its next custodian to use and enjoy.
Highlights:
Super rare car, being one of only 10 factory right hand drive Maserati Kyalamis built with the desirable 4.9 litre engine and the manual gearbox.
Matching numbers chassis and engine.
Well presented in a unique and stunning colour combination of rame metallic with a beige interior.
Recent engine rebuild.
Extensive history file.
Ready to use and enjoy.
Price AUD $124,950.
Background
The Maserati story is a fascinating one. It is the story of a family with daring, courageous and forward-thinking ideas. The story starts with Rodolfo Maserati, a railway engineer who was employed by the Italian monarchy and the father of seven sons who all had a passion for engine design and racing cars. The Maserati brothers all became involved in the automotive industry in some way or another, however, it was on the 1st of December 1914 that Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto Maserati officially opened Alfieri Maserati Workshop in Bologna, Italy.
Maserati chose the trident logo to adorn its cars. Its design was based on the Fountain of Neptune in Bolognas Piazza Maggiore. The colours chosen for the logo were also the colours of Bologna, red and blue.
The business was focused on repairing, servicing and preparing cars, however, the World War cut business short and it wasnt until 1926 that Maserati built its first car, the Tipo 26.
It was all about motorsport back then and in 1937 the Orsi family acquired ownership of Maserati which was in desperate need of financial backing to be able to survive. During the Orsi years Maserati grew from a boutique but very successful race car builder to one of the worlds leading manufacturers of hand-built sports and GT cars.
Maserati built its first road car in 1946 even though times were tough in post War northern Italy. The car was the Maserati A6 - where A was for Alfieri and 6 for the number of cylinders. The initial reception of the car was positive and a production Maserati A6/1500 was then shown at the 1947 Geneva Motor Show.
This was a significant milestone in the Maserati legend and subsequent models included the A6G/2000, 3500 series cars, 5000GT, Mistral. Quattroporte, Mexico, Sebring and Ghibli. Maserati also continued to build very successful race cars that dominated tracks around the world including the 250F, 300S, 150S, 450S and the Birdcage.
Orsi sold to Citroen in 1969. Maserati built some fabulous cars during Citroens ownership (including the Indy, Bora, Merak and Khamsin), however, times were tough and the company struggled financially. Citroen placed Maserati into liquidation in May 1975 and it was ultimately saved by the Italian government and Alejandro de Tomaso took control shortly thereafter. Under de Tomasos watch the first new Maserati was the Kyalami, so named after the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in South Africa where a Maserati powered Cooper T81 had won the 1967 South African Grand Prix. The Kyalami was based on the De Tomaso Longchamp. Pietro Frua was commissioned to re-style the car and give it that traditional Maserati look and feel. The Kyalami was seen as a true successor to the Mexico and production spanned 8 years from 1976 through until 1983. Maserati production numbers are often a point of contention, however, it is understood that only 201 Kyalamis were built. Of these, surprisingly 44 were factory right handdrive. 30 of the right hand drive cars were destined for the UK market, 7 for the Australian market, 4 for the South African market and 3 for Hong Kong. Of the 44 right hand drive cars, 21 were fitted with the 4.9 engine, of which 10 were fitted with a manual gearbox and 11 with an automatic gearbox.

1979 MASERATI KYALAMI 4.9 Manual

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale an incredibly unique, extremely rare and highly collectible 2019 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake. This car is understood to be 1 of only 2 factory right hand drive cars delivered new to Australia.
Aston Martin and Zagato have collaborated on projects for more than 65 years, with their partnership dating back to 1960. The first product of this alliance was unveiled in October 1960 at the London Motor Show, when the Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato made its public debut. Based on the DB4 GT, the car was significantly lightened and enhanced by Zagato. Although the original plan was to build 25 examples, only 19 were ultimately produced. Today, the Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato is regarded as one of the most desirable and collectible cars ever made. Given there rarity, they very rarely come up for sale, however, in todays market their value would most likely exceed US$ 15,000,000.
Driven by the 1980s supercar boom and the strong demand for high end limited edition cars, the partnership was reformed resulting in the V8 Vantage Zagato (52 examples built) and V8 Volante Zagato (32 examples built). In 2003 Aston Martin introduced the DB7 Zagato (99 examples built) and the DB AR1 (99 examples built). 2011 saw the introduction of the V12 Vantage Zagato (65 examples built). There were also a handful of prototype cars built over the years.
In May 2016 at the Concorso dEleganza Villa dEste at Lake Como in Italy, Aston Martin introduced a new concept car which was going to be the first of a Zagato family line of cars, the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato. The car was very well received and went into production in 2017, with production limited to 99 examples.
On the 15 August 2017 in Carmel, CA, USA the second member of the family made its global debut, the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Volante. At the same time, Aston Martin announced that . . . not only will the Vanquish Zagato Speedster enter production, but it will be joined by a spectacular Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake. This family of four Vanquish Zagato models will yield a total of 325 cars. Total production would be divided between 99 Coupes, 99 Volantes, 28 Speedsters and 99 Shooting Brakes.
Aston Martin stated in their press release dated August 17th 2017:
. . . The Speedster and Shooting Brake represent the two extremes of the Vanquish Zagato family.
The Shooting Brake is still a strict two-seater, but one conceived as an individual and exceptionally practical GT. The extended roof on the concept sketch bears the iconic Zagato double-bubble surfacing complete with glass inlays to let light flood into the cockpit. The sculptural roof culminates in a powered tailgate that opens onto a luxuriously trimmed rear cabin area. With dramatic herringbone carbon fibre facia with anodised bronze rotary controls, extensive Z motif quilting and the option of a fully aniline leather upholstery, the Shooting Brake is a fitting complement to the Coupe, Volante and Speedster.
The current and only owner of the car on offer, is a passionate Aston Martin enthusiast and collector. He loved the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato family of cars and particularly the Shooting Brake. He quickly placed an order and began the process to spec and option his car.
After careful consideration, his car was ordered with the following options:
- Villa d Este Pack: Standard Zagato (but modified with some of the options noted below)
- Exterior Paint Colour: Zaffre Blue Paint Q Exclusive
Exterior Options:
- Satin Carbon Fibre Package
- Brake Calipers: Q spec Orange
- Side Strake: Bright
- Exhaust Tailpipe Finisher: Bright
- Wheels: New SB Multispk Satin Black DT
- Window Surround Finisher: Bright
- Side Fender: Satin Carbon Fibre
Interior:
- Upper Instrument Panel: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Trim Upper Colour: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Trim Lower Colour: Coral Sand Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Door Insert: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Trim Upper Stitching: Californian Poppy Coarse Thread
- Trim Lower Stitching: Match to Trim Upper
- Seat Type: Sports Seat
- Seat Outer Colour: Coral Sand Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Seat Inner Colour: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Seat Outer Stitching: Match to Seat Outer
- Seat Inner Stitching: No Stitch
- Seat Accent Colour: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Seat Accent Quilting Stitch: Californian Poppy Embroidery Thread
- Embroidery Driver Seat: Californian Poppy Embroidery Thread
- Seat Embroidery: Embroidered Z Logo
- Seat Belts: Warm Charcoal
- Seat Cooling: Ventilated Front Seats
- Headlining Inner: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Headlining Outer: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Carpet Colour: Caspian Blue Heavyweight Carpet Contemporary
- Carpet Binding: Match to Carpet Colour
- Headlining Quilt Stitch: Villa d Este style Q spec solid Aurora Blue Californian Poppy Coarse Thread
- Facia Trim (Trim Inlay): Full Length Herringbone
- Interior Finish: Shadow Bronze/Anodised Gold Pack Std
- Paddleshifts: Black Match to Trim Upper
- Rear Env Boot Floor Leather
- Steering Wheel Type: One77 Full Leather Steering Wheel
- Steering Wheel Colour: Aurora Blue Caithness Leather Contemporary
- Steering Wheel Stitching: Standard
Today, this incredible Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake presents essentially as a brand new car. This car is part of a significant Aston Martin collection and it has been kept in a climate controlled garage. At the time of photographing, the odometer read 1,330 km.
Even though the car has been sparingly used, it has been religiously maintained and serviced annually by Sunshine Aston Martin in Southport on the Gold Coast in Queensland.
The service book notes the following:
- First service 16th April 2000 @ 577 km
- Second service 5th may 2021 @ 810 km
- Third service 15th July 2022 @ 892 km
- Fourth service 20th June 2023 @ 1,017 km
- Fifth service 1st July 2024 @ 1,124 km
- Sixth service 22nd August 2025 @ 1,262 km
The Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake is a design masterpiece. Most noticeable is the trade marque Zagato double-bubble roof, however, the detail on each component is quite something. For example, study the tail lights at the rear of the car as well as the carbon fibre, the interior trims, the stitching and of course the panoramic electrochromic glass roof . . . just wow!
Under the bonnet sits a 6.0 litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine which produces 580hp, enough to propel the car from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. Paired with an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission, this grand tourer delivers a seamless and exhilarating driving experience. Make no mistake, this is a supercar, but it is surprisingly usable and more than happy to take its place in traffic. Being a Shooting Brake there is also room for luggage for that weekend getaway!
This rare Aston Martin has rarely been seen in public, though it was exhibited by Aston Martin at the 2024 Noosa Concours.
There is also a Zagato car cover, with matching Californian Poppy thread that will accompany the car.
This Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake is the ultimate showcase of modern coachbuilding. It is super rare and exclusive, with 99 cars built, only 48 were right hand drive and just 2 were delivered new to Australia. Each car is uniquely numbered and this one is number 98.
Highlights:
- Unique and rare coach built supercar
- Very low mileage
- In as new condition
- Ready to be used and enjoyed.
Price $1,299,950.
Background
Aston Martin has produced bespoke sports cars for over 100 years. The company began in 1913, when founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford realised their desire to build distinctive, high quality sports cars that were both exhilarating to drive and a beauty to behold. Martin regularly competed in hill climb races at Aston Clinton, and a simple combination of the name of the event and the driver gave birth to one of the most famous automotive marques. Source: www.astonmartin.com.
Whilst Aston Martin produced some wonderful cars in their early years, business was always a struggle and the company was severely disrupted during both World War I and II. The company went bankrupt on more than one occasion and has endured many different owners throughout its history.
David Brown acquired Aston Martin in February 1947 and the first car produced during his ownership was the Aston Martin 2 Litre Sports, later known as the DB1, which was built in extremely limited numbers from 1948 to 1950. This was succeeded by the Aston Martin DB2 in 1950, which featured a new double overhead cam straight six engine of 2.6 litre (2580 cc) capacity, and was a car that really put post war Aston Martin on the map. Some 411 cars were built from 1950 to 1953, of which circa 100 were the convertible or drop head coupes. Its successor, known as the DB2/4, was first shown at the London Motor Show in 1953 and production started soon thereafter. Initially the car had the same engine as its predecessor, however, it was enlarged to 2,922cc in April 1954. Compared to the DB2 the DB2/4 had an extended roof line with a larger rear window, a one piece curved windscreen and real bumper bars. The biggest difference between the two cars was inside the cabin where the successor had far more roomwith two small occasional rear seats. The DB2/4 sold well through until 1957. In total 764 DB2/4s were built which included 565 of the Mk Is and 199 of the Mk IIs. The biggest change for the Mk II was that the bodies were made in-house by the recently acquired Tickford Coachbuilding Works in Newport Pagnell, otherwise the differences between the Mk I and Mk II were subtle. The DB2/4 was available as a four seat fixed head coupe or two seat drop head coupe from the start of production with a two seat coupe introduced on the Mk II. The DB2/4 MkII was succeeded by the DB MkIII and 551 examples were built from 1957 through until 1959.
In 1958 Aston Martin introduced the successor to the DB2/4 series, the DB4. The DB4 remained in production till 1963 and a total of 1,204 were produced.
In 1963 Aston Martin introduced what was to become the most famous Aston Martin ever, the DB5. The DB5 became a legend when it appeared in the 1964 James Bond movie Goldfinger. The DB5 is considered to be the quintessential vehicle associated with the Bond character and it has reappeared in many subsequent Bond films.
Whilst visually similar to the Aston Martin DB4 MkV, the DB5 was a step up mechanically with most changes under the bonnet. The new car was powered by a 4.0 litre version of Aston Martins straight six engine fitted with triple SU carburettors as standard it was quoted as producing 282 bhp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Power was sent through a five speed manual gearbox (a three-speed automatic was also an option) to the rear wheels. It was the first time this engine was used by Aston Martin in a road car, having first seen service in the Lagonda Rapide (based on Astons DB4) and some of Aston Martins prototype race cars of that period.
The Aston Martin DB5 remained in production through until 1965 and only 1,059 examples were produced. This figure includes DB5, DB5 Vantage and DB5 Convertible or Volante.
In 2020, as part of their continuation program Aston Martin produced 25 new DB5 Goldfinger-themed cars at the factory in Newport Pagnell.
The David Brown era (1947 1972) was arguably Aston Martins finest with the company winning Le Mans in 1959 and the iconic early DB series cars of the 1950s paving the way for the legendary DB4, DB5 and DB6 models of the 1960s.
The 1970s saw the introduction of some other significant Aston Martins, being the V8 (which evolved from the DBS/DBS V8 that was first introduced in 1967) and the unique four door wedge shaped Lagonda. However, throughout the 1970s and 1980s Aston Martin struggled financially and ownership changed a few times.
The most significant change in ownership occurred in 1987, when the Ford Motor Company purchased a 75% stake in the company. This finally gave Aston Martin the financial muscle and security it needed.
By 1993 Ford had fully acquired the company and the game changing Aston Martin DB7 was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March of that year. The DB7 became the car which put Aston Martin back on the map. When superseded by the DB9 in late 2004, some 7,000 DB7s had been built over the ten years of production making this the most produced model in the companys history. The V8 Vantage was introduced in 2005 and flagship DBS in 2007.
Ford sold out to private equity in 2007, however, the brand continued to evolve and subsequent models include the V12 Vantage, One-77, Rapide, Vanquish, DB11 and Valkyrie.
Today, Aston Martin is recognised as an iconic British luxury and performance car brand, manufacturing sports cars, grand tourers, hypercars and SUVs. Aston Martin also heavily invested in motor racing, including F1.

2019 ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH ZAGATO SHOOTING BRAKE

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this highly collectible, Australian delivered, factory right hand drive 1958 Porsche 356 A 1600 Super Speedster.
The Kardex on file confirms this car left the factory on the 15th November 1957 and was destined for Porsche dealer Hamilton in Melbourne. The car was painted Meissen Blue (paint code 5703) with a red interior (colour code A). The car was delivered with the following options: Tacho in miles, USA bumpers, seats from a coupe, tonneau and RHD.
Interestingly, it is understood that the original engine in this car was swapped into a standard Porsche 356 A Coupe when new. Apparently, a VIP client wanted a 356 A Coupe with a Super engine so the swap was made. The whereabouts of that 356 A Coupe are known, but the engine has long since been removed.
This Porsche 356 A Speedster went from Hamilton to Porsche dealer Diesel Motors in NSW. The cars first owner was believed to have been Jack Davey, a then famed radio host. Unfortunately, Davey didnt get to enjoy his Speedster for long as he passed away in October 1959. The cars history over the next ten years is not known, however, by 1969 it had found its way to Launceston in Tasmania and into the ownership of John Dixon.
In April 1988 the car was acquired by Kim & Ingrid Goodridge from Perth, WA. They purchased the car from Spyder Automobiles in Melbourne. At that time the car was in pretty poor condition. The Goodridges engaged Spyder Automobiles, who were one of the periods finest Porsche specialists, to restore the car to international concours standards. The car was disassembled to a bare shell and rebuilt to factory standards and tolerances. The engine was rebuilt to 1600 Super specification. There is correspondence on file with regards to the restoration as well as receipts, invoices and an album full of detailed photos. It took a total of 4 years to restore the car and by the end of 1992 this fabulous Speedster was back on the road. It was registered in WA with the registration number 8KL 894. At that time the odometer read circa 51,000 miles.
By 2003 the car had found its way to Melbourne and into the ownership of Jeff Dutton. Some twelve months later the car was sold to Peter Jurd from Byron Bay in northern NSW. Jurd owned the car for around 2 years and it was then sold to a well known Porsche enthusiast and collector on the Sunshine Coast. He used and enjoyed the car and it was a regular attendee at various events and rallies.
The current owner, who was living in Mount Isa, QLD at the time, acquired the car in January 2010. The odometer then read circa 58,700 miles. The car was initially registered in Queensland as 735 MUP and later with the personalised plates CDEK01. The owner later moved to northern NSW, taking his beloved Speedster with him, where it was registered as FLR06U.
In his 15 years of ownership the car has been used and enjoyed, travelling some 4,000 miles in that time. The majority of that mileage was accumulated in his early years of ownership and the car has been used sparingly in recent times.
In 2014 the engine was rebuilt and new pistons, barrels and rings were installed. At that time the odometer read 61,920 miles.
More recently, in February 2025, the car was sent to Gold Coast based classic car specialist and Porsche guru Russell Ebeling on the Gold Coast who went over the whole car. He recommissioned the engine, replaced all gaskets & seals, adjusted the valve clearances, changed the fluids and carried out a final tune. The brake fluid was also changed.
Today the odometer reads 62,858 miles.
It is hard to believe that it was almost 35 years ago that Spyder Automobiles restored this car. The car still presents and drives superbly, showing just the right amount of patina, which is a testament to the quality of the restoration and a reflection on how the car has been subsequently cared for and maintained.
From about a meter away the car still presents beautifully. The paint work has retained a strong depth of colour and a high gloss finish. Upon closer inspection there are some paint blemishes, most notably some stars on top of both the front guards and a few small stone chips and blemishes here and there. The bright work on the car, including the badges, is generally in good condition with only some very light pitting evident in certain areas. The front windscreen is in good condition. The same can be said for all the lights and lenses. Overall, the paint and external trim presents well with its overall presentation more consistent with 11,000+ miles of usage rather than a circa 35 year old restoration.
The car is fitted with a soft top, has the correct side screens, full tonneau cover and soft top cover which are in a good condition.
The steel wheels are in a good condition with only some light scratches and stone chips evident, but importantly no kerb rash. They are all, including the spare wheel, the correct Lemmerz 4½ Jx15 size wheels. Four of the five are date stamped 8/57 (August, 1957) which would be correct for a car which left the production line in November 1957. One wheel is date stamped 10/60 (October, 1960).
They are shod with Vredestein Sprint Classic tyres, size 165 HR 15 which are date stamped 1513 (week 15, 2013). Whilst the tyres still appear to be in a good condition they should be replaced on age if the next owner is going to do some serious driving in the car.
The interior on a 356 Speedster is simplistic, yet functional. Everything on this car presents nicely, from the lovely timber steering wheel through to the body colour painted dash. The upholstery is in very good condition with no tears or cracks evident in the seats or door cards. The optional coupe seats are comfortable and still provide ample support. Even the carpets have aged well and are in good condition. All the instruments are crisp, clean and present well. They all appear to be in good working order.
There arent too many cars cooler than a Porsche 356 Speedster. Whilst they look good, they are also great fun to drive. We were given the heads up that this car has a very strong engine with loads of power on tap and it drives particularly well. Needless to say, we were keen to get behind the wheel for our test drive. Our patience was tested as we had to wait out the inclement Brisbane weather for a few days. Finally, the weather gods cooperated and the grey skies cleared.
At some stage this cars electrical system has been upgraded from 6 volt to 12 volt and as a result the car starts easily, even from cold. Once the engine fires it quickly settles into a smooth idle. From the very first moment we started the car our impressions were very positive. The engine sounds great and it has the typical 356 raspy exhaust note.
Out on the open road this Speedster is an absolute delight to drive. The engine responds well to the slightest touch of the throttle and this car seams to go harder than most 356s we have experienced. The gearbox is tight and the changes up and down the box are precise. The suspension is also tight and the bumps in the road get easily absorbed. The steering is precise and direct providing great feedback to the driver. The brakes do their job and when needed they pull you up quickly and in a straight line. Unfortunately, we have no mountains or even hills near our showroom, but we can imagine how much fun this car would be to drive on some winding roads and over mountain passes.
After half an hour behind the wheel, you really get why these cars were so popular and so successful on race tracks back in the day.
Accompanying the car is a thick history file, which includes photos of its restoration, a short and long tonneau cover, two side screens, a spare wheel, a correct Hazet tool kit (in a VW case) and a jack. There are also six boxes of spare parts.
Highlights:
- Rare Australian delivered, factory RHD Speedster.
- Rebuilt engine to Super specs.
- Excellent history file.
- Delightful car to drive.
- Ready to be used and enjoyed.
Price $789,950.
Background:
The Porsche story is a fascinating one and its roots go back to the 1930s when Professor Ferdinand Porsche was instrumental in the design of the first Volkswagen and also Auto Union race cars. By 1939 he had built three Porsche cars to compete in the 800-mile race from Berlin to Rome. Unfortunately, the race was cancelled due to the war and Porsche was forced to focus on supporting the German war effort, however, he had always wanted to build his own cars. In 1944 Porsche was forced to leave Stuttgart and he set up a small operation in Gmünd, Austria. Soon after the Porsche family and many of their engineers were captured and sent to jail. Ferdinand Porsches son. Ferdinand junior, or Ferry as he was known, was released six months later and he returned to Gmünd to rebuild the family company. Things moved quickly and Porsche was involved with cars again and in mid-1948 the first Porsche 356 was built. It is understood Porsche built some 50 aluminium bodied cars by hand in their small factory at Gmündbefore relocating back to Stuttgart, Germany in 1949.
Instead of building the body of the car himself Porsche decided to collaborate with an old partner, the body manufacturing company Reutter who had both the expertise and infrastructure to mass produce the bodies for the 356 coupe and cabriolet.
Nowadays, the first series of the 356, built from 1948 through until 1955 are known as the 356 Pre A.
In 1955 the 356 A was introduced. The internal factory designation for this model was Type 1 which was quickly adapted by enthusiasts who referred to the 356 A as the T1. The 356 A became available as a coupe, cabriolet and a Speedster. Buyers had the choice between a 1,300cc and a 1,600cc engine and later the Super version.
A second revision of the 356 A was introduced early in 1957. It became known as the Type 2 (or T2). Late 1958 the Speedster was replaced by the Convertible D which was now build by coachbuilder Drauz. In late 1959 the 356 A was replaced by the 356 B.
In total 20,541 examples of the 356 A were built, consisting of 13,016 coupes, 3,285 cabriolets, 1,330 convertibles and 2,910 speedsters.
The 356 remained in production through until 1965 and evolved into one of the most successful sports cars ever built.

1958 PORSCHE 356A Speedster

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this magnificent Maserati 450S recreation.
The current owner is a real enthusiast and has owned some of the worlds great cars. He has a passion for sports racing cars from the 1950s and 1960s and in 2011 decided he needed a Maserati 450S!
He engaged the services of well respected classic car restoration specialists Historic and Vintage Restoration (HVR) in Melbourne and the journey began.
First step was to source a suitable engine to power the car. Obviously, it had to be a Maserati engine. A decision was made to use a Tipo AM107 engine from a 1960s Maserati Quattroporte. The engine was completely stripped by HVR and every element was tested and what needed to be replaced was replaced. When the time came to put the engine back together it was not simply rebuilt the way it was. The owner wanted the engine to look like it would have looked in period. It was modified to have twin plug ignition with a distributor for each bank. The block was also bored out to 5.0 litres. The Weber carburettors were modified and fitted with polished velocity stacks. They have the correct sand cast look. The owner did not go as far as converting the engine to dry sump, however, a correct dry sump tank is fitted in the rear of the car next to the beautiful riveted aluminium fuel tank (fitted with a fuel cell) to complete the look.
The remainder of the running gear came from a modern Maserati 4200, modified to look period correct. It is a six speed gearbox and transaxle which, inside the car, is beautifully disguised to look like a 5 speed gearbox with reverse. Giant, period correct, finned drum brakes are fitted all around.
The front suspension is a classic double-wishbone set-up. On the rear it has the De Dion rear end with transverse leaf springs which are polished steel as per original.
The body and chassis were made in Argentina by Nestor Solerno who is well known for making museum quality recreations. In fact, several of his cars are on display in the Fangio Museum in Buenos Aires.
When the body arrived in Australia HVR checked it and then had it painted by Resurrection Auto Restorers in Melbourne.
The project was finished in 2014 and the car has been used sporadically since. It has made appearances at the 2014 and 2015 Australian Grand Prix and several other events.
It was featured in Issue 367 the September 2014 issue of Unique Cars magazine when John Bowe tested it alongside a Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Recreation, then belonging to the same owner. The Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, which used a 1960 Ferrari 250 GTE as its donor car, has just been sold by Oldtimer Australia.
Like all nine original 450S built by Maserati, this car is right hand drive.
Walking up to the car you cannot help but being impressed with its presence. This car is stunning and its proportions are just right. Once of the first things you will notice are the ceramic coated exhausts on either side of the car. They immediately tell you this car means business.
Whilst it has been a few years now since the build of this car was completed it still presents exceptionally well. The paint has retained a deep gloss with a strong depth of colour. The car has been used from time to time as its makers intended and as a result when you look closely you will find some small imperfections. All the panel gaps are excellent.
The more you look at the car the more detail you will notice. The devil is in the detail and some of its features are the delicate handles to secure the boot and the bonnet as well as the windscreen which wraps around the cockpit and continues on top of the doors.
The car is fitted with genuine Borrani 16×4½ wire wheels at the front (16×5½ rear) which are shod with soft compound Dunlop Racing tyres size 6.0 16 at the front (6.5 16 rear). The wheels are all in excellent condition.
To get into the car you have to reach over the side screens and pull the leather cord on the inside of the door to open it. The interior itself is very minimalistic as one would expect. It is after all a race car. The seats are covered in period correct leather and are firm and relatively comfortable. Both seats are fitted with a five point harness. The small dashboard in front of you is basic but equipped with enough gauges to give you all the information you need. Right in front of you is the all important tacho. There is also a GPS speedo installed, however, on our most recent test drive that was not working.
We love the exposed chassis frame inside the car, which is a real feature of this era of racing Maseratis.
From the moment this car arrived at our showroom we were just that little bit excited to get behind the wheel. Starting the car is easy. There is a battery isolator key which is conveniently located inside the cabin and within easy reach of the driver. Starting is essentially the same as any other classic Maserati. It is as simple as inserting the key into the ignition and turning the ignition on. You will then hear the fuel pumps starting to pump fuel into the carburettors. After waiting for say fifteen seconds (which seemed more like 15 minutes!), you press the starter button. The big V8 bursts to live almost immediately with an almighty roar. You have to use the throttle to warm the engine up but that doesnt take too long and it quickly settles into a smooth idle. It immediately becomes clear that this engine means business. The engine sounds great and the exhaust note is simply amazing.
The gearbox has a normal shift pattern with first gear being left and forward. Once comfortable in the car and all buckled up it is time to hit the road. We select first gear and ever so cautiously inch the car out of our show room. Trying to be discrete is impossible. Passerbys, hearing the noise, immediately turned their heads the moment the car got onto the road. First impressions are that this car is surprisingly easy to drive. The gearbox is an absolute delight and with a relatively short shift the gear changes both up and down the box are easy and smooth.
Once the engine warmed up and we felt comfortable with the car we were able to find a quiet piece of road to see what this could do. Needless to say, we couldnt test its full potential. For that you need a race track, but what we can say is the car is an absolute delight to drive with more than enough power. The big Maserati V8 also has plenty of torque. The car weighs less than 1,000 kg and according to HVR the engine has around 350hp and 350nm of torque.
The brakes take a little bit of getting used to as they are drums. But once you realise that you just have to apply a bit more pressure on the peddle they do pull the car up quickly and in a straight line when needed.
It is not often a car like this becomes available on the Australian market. Given it was built in Australia makes it even more special.
This truly is a unique opportunity to own a recreation of a fantastic race car from the late 1950s. Accompanying the car is a history file of the invoices and photos from the build. There is also a spare wheel and a (modern) jack.
Highlights:
- Built by respected classic car restoration specialists (HVR) in Melbourne.
- Accurate aluminium body built by Nestor Solerno in Argentina.
- Powered by 5.0 Litre Maserati V8 engine.
- Beautifully presented.
- An absolute delight to drive.
- Ready to use and enjoy.
Price $399,950
Background:
The Maserati story is a fascinating one. It is the story of a family with daring, courageous and forward-thinking ideas. The story starts with Rodolfo Maserati, a railway engineer who was employed by the Italian monarchy and the father of seven sons who all had a passion for engine design and racing cars. The Maserati brothers all became involved in the automotive industry in some way or another, however, it was on the 1st of December 1914 that Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto Maserati officially opened Alfieri Maserati Workshop in Bologna, Italy.
Maserati chose the trident logo to adorn its cars. Its design was based on the Fountain of Neptune in Bolognas Piazza Maggiore. The colours chosen for the logo were also the colours of Bologna, red and blue.
The business was focused on repairing, servicing and preparing cars, however, the World War cut business short and it wasnt until 1926 that Maserati built its first car, the Tipo 26.
It was all about motorsport back then and in 1937 the Orsi family acquired ownership of Maserati which was in desperate need of financial backing to be able to survive. During the Orsi years Maserati grew from a boutique but very successful race car builder to one of the worlds leading manufacturers of hand-built sports and GT cars.
Maserati built its first road car in 1946 even though times were tough in post War northern Italy. The car was the Maserati A6 where A was for Alfieri and 6 for the number of cylinders. The initial reception of the car was positive and a production Maserati A6/1500 was then shown at the 1947 Geneva Motor Show.
This was a significant milestone in the Maserati legend and subsequent models included the A6G/2000, 3500 series cars, 5000GT, Mistral. Quattroporte, Mexico, Sebring and Ghibli. Maserati also continued to build very successful race cars that dominated tracks around the world including the 250F, 300S, 150S, 450S and the Birdcage.
The Maserati 250F is unique among Grand Prix cars, as it has longevity that has spanned seven years of racing from 1954 through until 1960. The 250F was first raced at the Argentinian Grand Prix in January 1954 by Juan Manuel Fangio. After qualifying third Fangio went on to win the race. Another famous driver who raced the 250F in 1954 was Stirling Moss. Moss also won several races in the 250F. In 1957 at the German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring Fangio overcame a 48 second deficit in 22 laps to win the race. In 22 laps he broke the lap record 10 times. The 250F was crucially important in carrying Juan Manuel Fangio to two of his five World Championship winning seasons, in 1954 and 1957. The Maserati 250F is motor racing royalty and in total 26 examples were built.
In 1955 Maserati introduced the Maserati 300S. This car was designed to compete in the FIA World Sportscar Championship. In total 26 were produced between 1955 and 1956.
The 300S was superseded by the 350S, but only 3 of them were produced before it was superseded by the Maserati 450S.
Initially, development of the 450S started in 1954 under the code name Tipo 54. However, after a catastrophic crash at Le Mans in 1955 the project was shelved. It was not until 1956 that the project was revived. The body was designed by Medardo Fantuzzi. It was powered by a 4,477cc V8 with four IDM Weber carburettors and double overhead camshafts. It produced 400hp at 7,200rpm.
Between 1956 and 1962, the Maserati 450S won an impressive 31 races from 119 appearances. Amongst others, the 450S was raced by Stirling Moss, Juan Manuel Fangio and Caroll Shelby.
In total 9 were built.

MASERATI 450S RECREATION

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale a 1958 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III (DB MkIII).
The British Motor Industry Heritage Certificate and factory records both confirm that this example was built on the 6th March 1958 and despatched on 1st April 1958 to Brooklands of Bond Street Limited (Guy Salmon Automobiles) for W M Perring & Company Limited, London in the UK.
The car was delivered new in Elusive Blue with a blue/grey interior. It was delivered with the following equipment: overdrive, instruction book, front disc brakes, rear alfin drum brakes, Avon Turbospeed tyres, twin SU HV6 carburettors and Armstrong shock absorbers.
There is an interesting note on the factory records which states this car competed in the 1958 Tulip Rally. There is a photo on file showing the car parked with other participants in the town of Champagnole in France during the rally.
In July 1967 Dr AR Adams, who worked at the Hollywood Repatriation General Hospital in Perth, decided he wanted an Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III. He contacted Motorservices Automobile Engineers in Christchurch, UK to see if they could help him find one. There are various letters on file from Motorservices. It took until February 1969 before they were finally able to find the right car for him.
A follow up letter from the 3rd March 1969 gives the following details about the car: Registration number XXL 475, originally registered on 13th March 1958, changed hands in October 1959 when it was acquired by Mr GD Greaves of Berkhamstead, Hartfordshire. At that time the odometer showed nearly 60,000 miles.
Dr Adams engaged Motorservices to refresh his new Aston Martin prior to it being shipped to Australia. The car was completely repainted in its original colour at the cost of £100. The engine, radiator, suspension and wheels were overhauled, the exhaust system and headlight wiring were replaced.
There is a letter on file dated 15th July 1969 confirming that all the work on the car was complete. There is an accompanying invoice on file for a grand total of £548.
Dr Adams flew to the UK for a holiday and whilst he was there used his Aston Martin. After that the car was returned to Motorservices for some final checks and adjustments.
The car finally made its way to Australia onboard the Discovery Bay which left the UK on the 8th December 1969.
By at least the early 1980s Dr Adams had relocated to Quindalup, just south of Busselton in Western Australia, taking his beloved Aston Martin with him.
Incredibly, Dr Adams owned this car for more than 40 years! Following his passing in February 2012 the car was sold to a well known Perth based classic car enthusiast and collector. The car remained in his care from September 2012 through until December 2022 when it was sold by Oldtimer Australia to its current Melbourne based owner. At that time the odometer read 86,732 miles.
The car was immediately sent to highly respected Rolls-Royce, Bentley and British car specialist Simon Elliott at the Derby Works. The brakes were serviced, the steering box was adjusted and the suspension was greased. The horn and battery isolation switch were repaired. A new set of Michelin X tyres were fitted. It was noted that the exhaust was tired and the owner decided to order a new exhaust system from QuickSilver Exhausts Ltd in the UK.
In October 2023 Derby Works were engaged to overhaul the suspension. All new parts were ordered from Aston Service Dorset in the UK. This included new front and rear springs as well as an uprated anti roll bar.
In February 2024 Derby Works adjusted the handbrake.
Today this Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III presents as an incredible time capsule. The car was repainted in its original colour back in 1969 but apart from that everything looks to be essentially original. And, as the say . . .it can only be original once!
The overall presentation of the car is consistent with what one would expect given its originality. This is a car that has obviously been used and enjoyed as its makers intended, but it has clearly been cherished and very well maintained over the years. The work completed in Adams ownership is too extensive for our write up, however, most notably the engine was rebuilt, including new liners and pistons, and the gearbox was rebuilt. This work was completed by Samios Restorations in Northbridge (Perth) from mid 1996 through until early 1997. At that time the odometer read 38,287 miles
Elusive Blue is a unique a stunning colour for the car. From say a meter away the paint presents well, but on closer inspection you will notice some imperfections and wear and tear consistent with what the car is. There are few bubbles evident on the body caused by electrolysis. These are most noticeable on the lower right rear panel near the edge of the door and on the lower front section of the right door itself. There are also a few dents on the roof and bonnet, which looks as though it may have been caused by hail damage or an errant golf ball!
The brightwork on the car is generally in a good condition, especially when you consider the age of the car. The bumpers, the overriders, the strip on the side of the car and the window surrounds present well. The glass is also in good condition and there are no cracks evident.
The wire wheels are in good condition with no kerb rash evident. They are shod with Michelin X tyres, size 185R16. These are date stamped 1422 (week 14, 2022) and are in excellent condition
The condition and presentation of the interior is consistent with the exterior of the car. The upholstery is most likely all original. The seats are in a good condition with no cracks or tears evident in the leather, though they have faded a little over the years. The same can be said of the carpets which are generally in a good condition though they do show signs of wear and are faded in certain areas. The dashboard is typically 1950s with large Smiths instruments behind a large steering wheel. On our test drive all the instruments appeared to be in working order, though we did notice that the speedo and tacho do waver.
From cold the car will need the choke to start. It then starts easily and you can back the choke off straight away and use the throttle to gently warm the engine up before driving. First impressions are good, the engine revs freely and responds well to the slightest touch of the throttle. The gearbox also feels firm and the gear changes are smooth both up and down the box even when cold. The car is fitted with overdrive, which works well. The brakes are adequate and pull the car up in a straight line when needed.
The car feels solid on the road though we did notice play on the steering wheel, which looks to be coming from the steering box.
Accompanying the car, is its complete original tool kit including the jack and hammer as well as a spare wheel.
The history file with this car, which is three full lever arch files of documentation plus original owners manual, parts manual and more, is simply amazing. There is a huge amount of correspondence and invoices on file covering the 40 plus year ownership of the car by Dr Adams.
The current owner has thoroughly enjoyed his time with this incredibly original Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III, however, a change in direction is resulting in him reluctantly offering the car for sale.
Fun fact: The Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III was the first James Bond Aston Martin, described as a DB III in Ian Flemings 1959 novel Goldfinger.
Highlights:
- Factory RHD example with overdrive.
- Fabulous original colour scheme.
- An incredible time capsule.
- Documented 5 owners from new.
- Amazing history file.
Price: $299,950
Background:
Aston Martin has produced bespoke sports cars for over 100 years. The company began in 1913, when founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford realised their desire to build distinctive, high quality sports cars that were both exhilarating to drive and a beauty to behold. Martin regularly competed in hill climb races at Aston Clinton, and a simple combination of the name of the event and the driver gave birth to one of the most famous automotive marques. Source: www.astonmartin.com.
Whilst Aston Martin produced some wonderful cars in their early years, business was always a struggle and the company was severely disrupted during both World War I and II. The company went bankrupt on more than one occasion and has endured many different owners throughout its history.
David Brown acquired Aston Martin in February 1947 and the first car produced during his ownership was the Aston Martin 2 Litre Sports, later known as the DB1, which was built in extremely limited numbers from 1948 to 1950. This was succeeded by the Aston Martin DB2 in 1950, which featured a new double overhead cam straight six engine of 2.6 litre (2580 cc) capacity, and was a car that really put post war Aston Martin on the map. Some 411 cars were built from 1950 to 1953, of which circa 100 were the convertible or drop head coupes.
Its successor, known as the DB2/4, was first shown at the London Motor Show in 1953 and production started soon thereafter. Initially the car had the same engine as its predecessor, however, it was enlarged to 2922cc in April 1954. Compared to the DB2 the DB2/4 had an extended roof line with a larger rear window, a one-piece curved windscreen and real bumper bars. The biggest difference between the two cars was inside the cabin where the successor had far more room with two small occasional rear seats. The DB2/4 sold well through until 1957. In total 764 DB2/4s were built which included 565 of the Mk Is and 199 of the Mk IIs. The biggest change for the Mk II was that the bodies were made in-house by the recently acquired Tickford Coachbuilding Works in Newport Pagnell, otherwise the differences between the Mk I and Mk II were subtle. The DB2/4 was available as a four seat fixed head coupe or two seat drop head coupe from the start of production with a two seat coupe introduced on the Mk II.The DB2/4 MkII was succeeded by the DB MkIII and 551 examples were built from 1957 through until 1959. 462 hatchbacks, 84 drophead coupes and 5 fixed head coupes. Of the 551 83 were LHD.
The MkIII was nearly 9 longer than the DB2 and weighed about 159kg more, an increase of about 15%, but more than an extra 50% power was available from the standard DBA engine, compared with the original LB6B engine.
The David Brown era was arguably Aston Martins finest with the company winning Le Mans in 1959 and the iconic early DB series cars of the 1950s paving the way for the legendary DB4, DB5 and DB6 models of the 1960s.

1958 ASTON MARTIN DB 2/4 MK III

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale a factory right hand drive 1972 Maserati Bora. It is understood that Maserati built only 42 factory right hand drive Boras making this an exceptionally rare car. 

According to the factory records this factory right hand drive example was completed in October 1972 with a 4.7 litre engine. Its original colour scheme was Celeste Chiaro (light blue, Salchi code 1069.A.20) with a black interior (Connolly code PAC.1560). 

The car was delivered in the UK to its first owner through Citroen Cars Ltd in Slough, UK. It is understood the car left the UK shortly after, making its way to the Channel Islands, then to Norfolk Island before arriving in Brisbane in 1974.
After arriving in Australia, the car is understood to have found its way to Perth in Western Australia where it remained for about 10 years. One of the subsequent owners remembered seeing the car on the Kwinana Freeway around 1977. The car then found its way to Bathurst in New South Wales where it was owned by Nicholas Dutton. In his ownership the car was registered in NSW as QYB443. Dutton sold the car through Oldtimer Australia in the early 2000s to a well known Melbourne based classic car enthusiast and collector. He only kept the car for a short period as he quickly realised that a Maserati Bora is not really designed for people who are over 64 tall! He loved the car, but couldnt get comfortable in it, so he reluctantly made the decision to sell. The car was again sold through Oldtimer Australia, to Ken Graham from Perth in Western Australia. At that time the odometer read 56,240 miles.

Graham owned this Maserati Bora for the next 14 years and in his ownership a lot of work was done to the car. Accompanying this car is a huge history file(s), including one thick file with substantial documentation, invoices and photos for all of the work Graham had completed on the car.

In August 2003 Graham decided to have the engine rebuilt. At that time the odometer read 58,000 miles. The engine was removed from the car, completely stripped and all components were thoroughly examined. The engine was rebuilt with new JE forged pistons and new OEM bearings from Kyle Fleming Maserati in the USA. Chapman Bros in Mosman Park in Perth bored and honed the block and refurbished the crankshaft. After crack testing, the crankshaft was machined, polished, re-nitrited and, then balanced. The engine block was chemically cleaned, the heads and the block were machined (only .005) and new valves & followers were installed. A decision was made to also install valve stem seals, something the factory never did. The engine was then reassembled. The gearbox and differential were also disassembled. Bearings were replaced and some of the gears were relapped. Unfortunately, after all the work was completed there was some noise from the gearbox and differential. The owner decided to live with it, however, in 2011 it was the one thing that still annoyed him about the car. He then removed the gearbox and differential again and this time he renewed all the synchromesh cones as well as the crown wheel and pinion. 

In November 2007 a decision was made to repaint the car. It was taken to Lombardi Panel works who assessed the car and made a list of all the work to be done. When examining the car they found paint fragments under the rear window which were of a slightly different colour, confirming that the car had previously been repainted. After further examining the car, they determined the paint to be a Ford colour found on the XF Fairmont. Work commenced and the body was taken back to bare metal. Maserati Boras are prone to rust and this car had obviously benefited from having lived the majority of its life in Australia. There was some metal work required, but overall the boidy was in good condition. When it came time to paint the car the owner decided on a colour change and selected rosso rubino, which was the colour of the car featured in the 1972 factory sales brochure.

During that same period the interior was also retrimmed.

In Grahams ownership pretty much every element of the car was refurbished. The engine, carburettors, gearbox, differential, suspension, steering, hydraulics, exhaust system, brakes, electrical system and the air conditioning were all overhauled. The car was repainted and the interior refreshed.

The current owner, who is based in Melbourne, acquired the car from Graham in March 2016. At that time the odometer read 63,685 miles. He has used the car sparingly and travelled circa 1,200 miles in his nine years of ownership. Today the odometer reads 64,849 miles. In his ownership he had the car regularly maintained by Zagames and Beninca Motors.

First impressions of this car are really good. It certainly has a presence and the colour scheme really suits the car. The paint has certainly withstood the test of time. It has been nearly 18 years since this car was repainted but it has retained a deep gloss finish and a strong depth of colour. Upon closer inspection you will notice a few small imperfections. The most noticeable ones are three small bubbles on the lower part of the drivers door, near the bottom edge and one on the lower section of the right front guard. There are also a few small stone chips, consistent with a car which has been used. The stainless steel roof on a Bora is a real feature and it is in very good condition on this car. The same can be said for all the other bright work. Whilst the car has a few small imperfections here and there, generally speaking its overall presentation is very good.

All the glass is in good condition with no cracks or delamination evident. The same can be said for all the lights and lenses, which are clear and in good condition.
The Campagnolo wheels and chrome finished hub caps are another unique design feature on a Bora. On this car they are generally in a good condition though we did notice some very light kerb rash on the right rear wheel. It is very minor and only the paint has been affected, not the actual rim. The hub caps are all in good condition. The wheels are shod with period correct Michelin XWX 215/70 VR15 tyres on all four corners. They are date stamped 3120 and 3220 (week 31 and 32, 2020) and are in excellent condition.

When you open the door you are welcomed by a very unique looking interior. The first thing that will capture your attention are the seats. They look like something you might have seen in an 80s sci-fi movie or perhaps found in a funky period lounge room! Both seats are in good condition with no rips or tears evident in the leather. They are also firm and provide plenty of support. Sliding behind the wheel you cant help but be impressed with the dashboard. All the gauges present well and on our test drive they all appeared to be working as they should. The period correct radio is a nice touch. The door cards and the headlining both present well.

Ever since this Bora arrived in our showroom we have been keen to take it out for a test drive. We had to wait for the weather gods to cooperate but when the opportunity finally presented itself, we were not disappointed. The car starts easily even from cold and fairly quickly settles into a smooth idle. The big V8 has a fabulous almost baritone exhaust note that you take in as the engine warms up. In time we are inching the nose into traffic as we slowly exit our showroom and hit the open road. The first impressions, even though the engine had not quite warmed up yet, were extremely positive. The car almost squats on the road and it feels really solid. This Maserati Bora is a fabulous car to drive. The engine has plenty of power throughout the rev range and the gear changes both up and down the box are easy and smooth. The car handles very well and responds to the smallest movement in the steering wheel. When needed the brakes are there to pull the car up quickly and in a straight line. Once everything had warmed up properly, the driving experience only got better!

This wonderful Maserati Bora was shown at Motors & Masterpieces in Melbourne in November 2024 as part of the display celebrating 110 Years of Maserati. It is also featured in the upcoming issue of Benzina magazine.

The Maserati Classiche documentation on file confirms that this car is fully matching numbers, including its Carrozzeria (body number) and Autovettura (production number).

The car comes with an extensive history file which contains the original build sheets, lots of photos, write ups and invoices documenting all the work done over the years. It also has a correct spare wheel.

It is not often a factory right hand drive Maserati Bora comes onto the market in Australia or in fact anywhere in the world. 

We think the Maserati Bora is a real sleeper and it presents a fabulous opportunity when compared to its cross town rivals from Ferrari and Lamborghini!

Highlights:
	Rare factory right hand drive example, being one of only 42 ever built.
	Matching numbers, engine, chassis and body.
	Nicely presented.
	Extensive history file.
	Sorted, ready to be used and enjoyed.

Background

The Maserati story is a fascinating one. It is the story of a family with daring, courageous and forward-thinking ideas. The story starts with Rodolfo Maserati, a railway engineer who was employed by the Italian monarchy and the father of seven sons who all had a passion for engine design and racing cars. The Maserati brothers all became involved in the automotive industry in some way or another, however, it was on the 1st of December 1914 that Alfieri, Ettore and Ernesto Maserati officially opened Alfieri Maserati Workshop in Bologna, Italy.
Maserati chose the trident logo to adorn its cars. Its design was based on the Fountain of Neptune in Bolognas Piazza Maggiore. The colours chosen for the logo were also the colours of Bologna, red and blue.

The business was focused on repairing, servicing and preparing cars, however, the World War cut business short and it wasnt until 1926 that Maserati built its first car, the Tipo 26.

It was all about motorsport back then and in 1937 the Orsi family acquired ownership of Maserati which was in desperate need of financial backing to be able to survive. During the Orsi years Maserati grew from a boutique but very successful race car builder to one of the worlds leading manufacturers of hand-built sports and GT cars. 

Maserati built its first road car in 1946 even though times were tough in post War northern Italy. The car was the Maserati A6 - where A was for Alfieri and 6 for the number of cylinders. The initial reception of the car was positive and a production Maserati A6/1500 was then shown at the 1947 Geneva Motor Show.
This was a significant milestone in the Maserati legend and subsequent models included the A6G/2000, 3500 series cars, 5000GT, Mistral. Quattroporte, Mexico, Sebring and Ghibli. Maserati also continued to build very successful race cars that dominated tracks around the world including the 250F, 300S, 150S, 450S and the Birdcage.

Orsi sold to Citroen in 1968. Soon after, the idea of a two seat mid-engined super car was conceived. It was then in the summer of 1969 the first prototype of Maseratis new car was built. This car was known as Tipo 117 and was ultimately named Bora after a wind from the Northern Adriatic Sea. The car became a reality in relatively short time and it was officially launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1971.

Like the Ghibli before it Maseratis new flagship was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, this time for Ital Design. In many ways the Bora was a unique design and its trademark was that its roof and A pillar were finished in brushed stainless steel in contrast the rest of the painted body.
Like the Lamborghini Countach and Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer, the Maserati Bora was one of THE supercars of the seventies. Despite the fuel crisis, Maseratis supercar was relatively successful with 564 cars built from 1971 through until 1978. Of those only 42 left the factory as right hand drive.

1972 MASERATI BORA

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this fantastic 1983 Aston Martin V8 Oscar India.
The Heritage certificate on file confirms this car was built on the 7th September 1983 and it left the factory on 11th October 1983. The car was originally delivered in storm red (paint code 9017) with a fawn pipe burgundy interior (trim code VM.3234/DV6171), a colour scheme the car still carries today. The car retains its original matching numbers engine.
The Heritage Certificate also states this car was delivered with Weber carburettors, Avon tyres, beige with burgundy edged carpet, beige leather headliner and a miles per hour speedometer.
This car is a highly desirable later model Oscar India with the V580 Series engine and BBS wheels. It also has the blanked out radiator grill that was standard on the Aston Martin V8 Vantage. Like the majority of the Aston Martin V8s built, this car is equipped with a Chrysler Torqueflite three speed automatic transmission.
The documentation on file confirms that this Aston Martin was delivered through Victor Wilson Limited in Edinburgh, Scotland to its first owner, Mr M Carney from Glasgow, Scotland. It was first registered as MAT 78.
Around 1989 the car was sold to Mr M Blackall, an Englishman temporary living and working in Belgium as the Area Director of Operations for a major hotel group. At that time the car was registered as A946FSF. The car spent the next two years in Belgium before the owner moved back to the UK and took the car with him. In 1993 he upgraded to an Aston Martin V8 Volante and this car was sold to Mr M Walker from Edinburgh in June 1994. In September 1996 the car was advertised for sale by the Murray Motor Company in Edinburgh and sold to Mr R Forrester from Cairneyhill, a small village just north of Edinburgh. In 2000 the Murray Motor Company advertised the car for sale again and subsequently sold it to Mr Keenan from Apperley, Gloucestershire, UK. The car was registered with the registration A4 SFK. These UK plates are still fitted on the car.
The current owner, who has an extensive and eclectic collection of cars, acquired this Aston Martin in the UK in mid 2006 and subsequently imported it into Australia. There is an Import Approval on file dated 31st July 2006.
Shortly after arriving into Australia the car was repainted in its original colour of storm red. The car has not been driven any distance since arriving in Australia. It has essentially been in static storage for some fifteen years, though from time to time it was started and driven a short distance. It was last started and driven about five years ago prior to arriving to us.
Since arriving at Oldtimer Australia the car has been recommissioned by classic car specialist Steve Ward from SJ Classics and it runs and drives well. It may require some further fettling to be a reliable driver, but the car has done everything as expected when we have had it out on the open. From the first turn of the key when awoken from its hibernation, the big V8 engine burst to life and it sounds fantastic. Not surprisingly the car seems to get better and better the more it has been driven. The oil pressure is good and engine has loads of power on tap. The gear changes are smooth up and down the box and the car handles, steers and stops as one would expect.
Today the odometer reads 69,688 miles, which based on the information on file, is genuine.
Even though the car carries what is now considered an older repaint, the paint still presents very well. As a result of the car not being driven since it was repainted, the paint has never been exposed to the harsh Australian sun. It retains a deep gloss and a strong depth of colour. There are only two small defects in the paint. There are two very small chips on the boot lid and there is also a small scrape on the edge of the drivers door. Subsequent to our photo shoot, these defects have been touched up using original touch up paint supplied with the car.
All the glass, which looks to be original, and external trim is in very good condition. The same can be said for the bumpers and the other bright work on the car. It is all in very good to excellent condition.
The BBS wheels, which are a real feature on these later Aston Martin V8s present like new with no curb rash. They are shod with Avon Turbosteel 70 tyres, size 235/70/15. The thread on the tyres still present like new, however they are date stamped 4400 (week 44, 2000), and should really be replaced on age.
Open the door and you feel like you are stepping back in time. The interior has been beautifully preserved and is in beautiful condition. It is also very English! The fawn leather seats are in excellent condition with no cracks or tears in the leather. They are comfortable and still provide plenty of support. The rear seats appear to have hardly been used. All the carpets are in excellent condition. The dashboard presents like new. The timber veneer inserts are in excellent condition as is all the leather. Even the top of the dash is still in excellent condition. The instruments are all clean and present well. There is a row of push switches on the centre console and you often see these with faded text. Not in this car. The text is as clear as it was on the day the car left the factory.
In the boot everything is clean and tidy and there is an original spare wheel present.
Open the bonnet and you are presented with a magnificent looking V8 engine. It is hard to miss the Aston Martin Lagonda text on the valve covers and of course there is the plate with the name of the person who assembled the engine. The engine in this car was built by Fred Walters. All very Aston Martin! Everything presents as one would expect. The engine is bay is neat, clean and tidy.
The underside of this car presents well. There is light surface corrosion on some of the components, however, this is not a typical English car underneath. The overall presentation is consistent with a 41 year old car that has been well cared for.
Accompanying this car is a comprehensive history file dating back to new, which includes the original service book.
This car has an incredible presence and it presents fabulously in the striking colour of storm red.
A unique opportunity.
Highlights:
- Rare and desirable example of one the iconic Aston Martin V8 series.
- Beautifully presented example of a quintessential British GT.
- Fabulous original colour scheme.
- Known history from new.
Price $259,950
Background:
Aston Martin has produced bespoke sports cars for over 100 years. The company began in 1913, when founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford realised their desire to build distinctive, high quality sports cars that were both exhilarating to drive and a beauty to behold. Martin regularly competed in hill climb races at Aston Clinton, and a simple combination of the name of the event and the driver gave birth to one of the most famous automotive marques. Source: www.astonmartin.com.
Whilst Aston Martin produced some wonderful cars in their early years business, was always a struggle and the company was severely disrupted during both World War I and II. The company went bankrupt on more than one occasion and has endured many different owners throughout its history.
David Brown acquired Aston Martin in February 1947 and the first car produced during his ownership was the Aston Martin 2 Litre Sports, later known as the DB1, which was built in extremely limited numbers from 1948 to 1950. This was succeeded by the Aston Martin DB2 in 1950, which featured a new double overhead cam straight six engine of 2.6 litre (2580 cc) capacity, and was a car that really put post war Aston Martin on the map. The David Brown era was arguably Aston Martins finest with the company winning LeMans in 1959 and the sixties producing the legendary DB4, DB5 and DB6 models.
The first of the Newport Pagnell designed cars, the DBS, was introduced in 1967. The DBS was initially powered by Aston Martins tried and true 6 cylinder engine as the companys new V8 engine was not ready.
From September 1967 through until May 1972 Aston Martin produced 829 DBS chassis. One of these was used in a crash test and 26 of these were later fitted with a V8 engine which leaves a total of 802 six cylinder Aston Martin DBS. Of these 802 cars, 621 were right hand drive and 181 left hand drive. The DBS was available with a five speed ZF manual gearbox or an automatic gearbox or. Interestingly, 317 of the right hand drive cars were fitted with the five speed manual gearbox. It is understood that Aston Martin only built circa 70 right hand drive examples equipped with the Vantage engine.
In September 1969 the DBS was superseded by the DBS V8, powered by the all new 5.3 litre V8 engine which was finally ready for production. The DBS V8 remained in production through until April 1972 and circa 400 cars were built. It was then renamed and became the Aston Martin V8, which became a great success for the marque. The Aston Martin V8 was produced for 17 years, with production finally coming to an end in 1989. Just over 2,000 cars were built, plus the Volantes and Vantages.
In October 1978 Aston Martin introduced the Aston Martin V8 Series 4, otherwise known as the Oscar India (Oscar India = October Introduction, from the phonetic alphabet). The car now sporting burr walnut trim, a blanked off bonnet scoop and a revised boot lid and rear wings to create a sculpted spoiler was visually very similar to the Vantage. The car remained in production through until 1985 and only 352 examples were produced.

1983 ASTON MARTIN V8 Oscar India

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