OLDTIMER GARAGE AUSTRALIA P/L

A new arrival to Oldtimer Australia is this lovely, beautifully restored 1948 Bristol 400.
There is documentation on file that states that this particular example was completed on the 9th July 1948 and despatched to Messrs Commonwealth Motors Ltd in Melbourne on the 14th July 1948 together with three other cars. It was delivered in its current colour of light blue metallic. Sun visors were fitted to the car as an option and the spare wheel was mounted on the boot lid.
The car was sold to its first owner on the 16th March 1949. It was registered in Victoria as MY229. The car remained in continuous ownership for nearly six years. On the 1st January 1955 the car was sold to William Love. In his ownership the car was repainted Ivory. On the 1st June 1961 the car changed hands and found its way to South Australia. It was repainted back to its original colour of light blue metallic. The car was then sold on the 1st January 1963 by Para Motors in Adelaide to John Fleming. In Flemings ownership the car was registered in South Australia as HUM611. It was repainted again, this time in the Ford colour of port wine. Fleming traded his Bristol for an Aston Martin DB4 and on 1st March 1969 through a business by the name of Group Air. On the 1st January 1970, the car was sold and it found its way to Western Australia. On the 1st December 1970 the car was sold again, to John Milne, who returned the car back to its original colour.
After a colourful early life where this car travelled across Australia, passing through many different owners and changing colour a number of times, this wonderful Bristol has subsequently remained in continuous ownership for the next 48 years!
This car was acquired by the father of the current owner in 1977. He passed the car down to his son, who is the current owner of the car, in 1978. The car was used sparingly until 1987 at which time it was parked with the intention to one day restore it to its former glory.
This Bristol 400 remained in storage for the next 27 years and in 2014 it was then sent to O&S Sports Car Restoration and Mechanical Repairs in Cromer, NSW. They completely stripped the car and started the restoration. In August 2015 the owner decided to send his partially restored car to Bristol specialist Sebastian Gross in Kendall on the mid north coast in NSW. The restoration was a major undertaking and finally in 2019 the car was back on the road. There are detailed invoices and a photographic record of the restoration on file, which confirm the extent of the work completed.
Whilst the owner of the car lived in Perth, he chose to keep the car in NSW. He came across to the east coast regularly and when possible got to use and enjoy his Bristol. He was a regular attendee at Bristol Club events and most notably took the car to Noosa for a national rally organised by the Bristol Owners Club of Australia from the 28th of April 2019 until the 5th of May 2019. The car was very well received and it won the trophy for the Best Restoration against some stiff competition.
The current owner is moving overseas and has reluctantly decided that it is time for his beloved Bristol 400 to pass on to its next custodian. He had to have one last hurrah with the car and took a week to drive it from Kendall, NSW up to Noosa, QLD, finally dropping it off at our private showroom in Brisbane.
As they say . . . a picture is worth a thousand words and the photos of this car do exactly that! This is a very well presented car. The light blue metallic colour really suits the car and it accentuates the art deco style flowing lines which give it a cohesive, almost sculpted appearance. Generally the paint is still in very good condition. It has retained a strong depth of colour with a high gloss finish. Upon closer inspection there are a few minor imperfections consistent with a car which has been used and enjoyed. The most noticeable defect is some orange peel visible on the left rear quarter panel. The external trim, with its subtle chrome accents around the grille, window surrounds and bumpers provide just enough contrast without overwhelming the cars clean lines. It is all in very good condition and presents with nice lustre. The badges are also similarly well presented. The glass is all in a good condition with no scratches, chips or cracks evident.
The unique steel wheels are clean with no kerb rash evident. They are shod with Michelin X tyres, size 5.50R16. These tyres are date stamped 2917 (week 29, 2017) and are still in a good condition. The hubcaps with the Bristol logo are a real feature and in a good condition.
Opening the large rear hinged suicide doors reveals a wonderfully inviting interior. The beige and brown upholstery combination is particularly appealing, providing a warm and sophisticated contrast to the light blue paintwork. The overall effect is both harmonious and elegantly understated. The seats are surprisingly comfortable and provide ample support. The leather is in a very good condition with no damage or any sign of wear present. The rear seats have probably never been used.
Once youve settled in behind the large steering wheel, your attention naturally turns to the dashboard. As part of the cars restoration, a new dashboard was crafted from African cedar and it still presents beautifully today, appearing as fresh as the day it was installed. The instruments are crisp and clear, with everything functioning as it should on our recent test drive. Even the radio is operational. The roll down blinds are a sophisticated touch and were particularly fond of the charming semaphore indicators, which are in perfect working order.
The bonnet on a Bristol 400 is split down the centreline and opens from both sides, allowing access to the engine bay from either side of the car. This design not only reflects the craftsmanship of the era but also helps maintain the smooth, flowing lines of the body when closed, preserving the cars elegant, aerodynamic profile. Under the bonnet the engine bay is neat and tidy and this is also where you will find the toolkit and a foot pump. The same can be said for the boot, where everything is clean and well presented. The jack is mounted on the bulkhead at the rear of the boot. Importantly, the Enots 'one shot' lubrication system is present and in working order.
This is a very well sorted car and therefore it is no surprise it also starts easily, even from cold. Once the 2.0 litre six cylinder engine fires, it quickly settles into a smooth, steady idle. With these older cars it is best to allow the engine a little bit of time to warm up. It doesnt take long before we are able to select first gear and are out on the open road. The Bristol 400 is not a sports car, rather it is a gentlemans express with a sporting edge and it needs to be driven that way. Driving the Bristol 400 is about elegance and presence, not outright speed. It encourages a relaxed, attentive style of driving where you savour the engineering, the handcrafted details and the smooth ride. Its the kind of car that turns heads wherever it goes and makes every journey feel like a special occasion. Quite incredible for a car built almost 80 years ago!
Once on the road, the car moves with composure, rewarding gentle throttle inputs rather than aggressive acceleration. The engine sounds fabulous with rorty exhaust note. The gear changes are smooth and precise both up and down the box. The car handles well. It feels composed and predictable around corners, with a steering thats accurate but not overly heavy, making it comfortable for longer drives without feeling disconnected from the road. The brakes are effective, pulling the car up quickly and in a straight line when needed. They require a firm, confident touch, as is typical of cars from this period, but respond reliably.
As mentioned earlier in this write up, the current owner is moving overseas and has decided its time for someone else to enjoy his beloved Bristol 400. This is a very well sorted car which you can just enjoy the way it is. We would repair the paint blemishes on the left rear guard, which would return this car to near concours condition.
It is understood that almost 500 Bristol 400s were built between 1947 and 1950. According to records from the Bristol Owners Club of Australia, there were originally 94 Bristol 400s exported to Australia when the model was new. It is thought that perhaps as many as 50 of those cars still exist today, however, it would be hard to find a better example than this car.
Accompanying the car is a good history file with receipts and photos of all the work completed during the restoration. There is also a spare wheel, tool kit, jack and a foot pump.
Highlights:
Australian delivered, factory RHD example.
Known ownership from new.
Restored by marque experts.
Presented in its original and stunning colour combination.
Beautifully presented car that is just a delight to drive.
Price $ 99,950.
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.

BRISTOL 400

Details:
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale a rare Australian delivered factory right hand drive 1971 Maserati Indy.
According to the Maserati Classiche documentation on file this car was originally finished in oro metallizzato (gold metallic), paint code 106Y54 with a white leather interior.
The car on offer has the 4,200cc engine mated to the desirable five speed manual gearbox. This car is one of the 13 Australian delivered cars and one of the only eight factory right hand drive cars built with non power assisted steering.
It was collected from the Maserati factory in Italy by its first owner, a Mr Percy Arena, from Sydney in NSW on the 19th April 1971. The dealer is noted as being Alec Mildren Pty Ltd.
Mr Arena enjoyed his Indy in Europe before importing it into Australia. The cars subsequent early history is not known, however, its next owner is understood to have been Mr Eddie Battestello from Warrnambool in Victoria.
It was in his ownership that the Recaro seats, which are still in the car today, were fitted.
The Indy was then sold circa 1980 to Mr Andy Fraser from Hamilton, Victoria who is well known in classic car circles in Australia. The next owner was a Mr Max Ormerod from Lismore, NSW, who acquired the car in October 1985. At this time the odometer read 69,478 miles.
It is fair to say that Ormerod was a fastidious owner and he kept a diary of the car detailing its history, including service records and work done. In July 1990 (at 75,200 miles) he had the car was repainted Alfa Red.
In September 2000 the car was purchased by Mrs Diane Orford as a present for her husband Colin, from Mick Arnold Classic Cars in Southport on the Gold Coast. At that time the car needed some work and it was parked up in storage for many years.
In late 2007 work commenced to recommission the car and get it into a road going state. Over the next 9 months the front suspension was completely rebuilt, the steering was rebuilt, the diff pinion seal was replaced, the brakes serviced, the cooling system overhauled and the car was serviced and generally sorted mechanically. The interior was also refreshed at this time. There is a roadworthy certificate on file dated 2nd September 2008 at which time the odometer was at 87,338 miles. The car was completed just in time for the annual Noosa Beach Classic Car Show which in 2008 was celebrating Maserati as the featured marque. This Maserati Indy was awarded a second place from the 18 Maseratis on display.
Throughout 18 years of ownership this Maserati Indy was treated by the Orfords as part of the family. Even though the car was sparingly used over the years, travelling a modest 2,000 miles in that time, it was fastidiously maintained regardless of cost. In early 2019, with the odometer showing 89,361miles, Orford decided the time was right for his treasured Maserati to pass on to its next custodian.
Oldtimer Australia sold the car to its current Brisbane based owner in March 2019. At the time the car presented well, though the paint showed some minor blemishes, most noticeable were some small humidity blisters on the nose and bonnet.
After acquiring this Maserati Indy, the current owner used the car for the next two years. The paint imperfections were slowly getting worse and this was the catalyst for him to repaint the car. He debated whether to keep the car red or repaint it in its original colour of oro metallizzato (gold metallic). Thankfully, he chose the latter and he engaged the services of highly respected restoration shop GT motors in Brisbane to do the work.
The project commenced in April 2021 and after stripping the body back to bare metal it was immediately apparent that this was not going to be a straight forward repaint. The job quickly turned into a full body restoration. There are about 500 photos on file detailing the work that was undertaken to prepare the body for the repaint. There was significant rust in the nose of the car as well as the floor, sills, doors, boot lid and just about everywhere else! All the corroded metal was removed and replaced with new metal where required.
Once all the body work was completed, the car was then prepared for painting. As they say colour maketh the car and this Maserati Indy now presents absolutely superbly in its original and STUNNING colour of oro metallizzato (gold metallic).
The front and rear bumpers as well as the wheel nuts and wheel centre caps were rechromed by Pacific Plating in Brisbane. A new windscreen was installed and Maseratis characteristic diamond stitched under bonnet insulation was replaced.
In October 2022 all the work was completed and the car was back on the road.
The end result is simply spectacular and the car is a credit to its owner as well as Frank Toaldo and his team at GT Motors.
Today the odometer on this car reads 91,142 miles. It has travelled perhaps 1,000 miles since it was repainted three years ago and as a result it still presents superbly.
The paint has retained its high gloss finish and strong depth of colour and one has to look hard to find any imperfections. There is one very small defect just in front of the left rear wheel arch. It is hard to see but it is there. The external trim is all in excellent condition.
The wheels are in excellent condition having all been repainted. They are shod with period correct Michilin XWX tyres, size 205VR14, which are date stamped 2317 (week 23, 2017). They are still in excellent condition.
Inside the cabin everything remains very fresh. The leather remains in excellent condition on the seats and door cards. We only noticed some marks on the drivers seat bolster caused by the seat belt. A good leather doctor can easily correct this.
The dashboard, instruments and controls are also in excellent condition. Everything looks to be in working order. The car has a fabulous Blaupunkt radio cassette fitted which is most likely original. The front seats, whilst not original to the car, are period correct and very comfortable. They provide ample support.
The car is very clean all around and the engine bay is no exception. The boot is similarly well presented.
The Maserati Indys were highly regarded as very comfortable grand tourers and with a quoted top speed of 250 km/hr, one could only image blasting from Rome to Paris back in the day at high speed and in style and comfort!
Whilst we couldnt get to the autostrade we could stretch this cars legs on Brisbanes M1. In summary, this car drives every bit as good as it looks.
As with all Maserati V8s of this period you need to prime the carburettors once the ignition key has been turned on. The fuel pump eventually slows and after three or four pumps on the throttle the engine bursts into life with a final turn of the key. The 4.2 litre V8 in this Indy sounds fabulous. The exhaust note is spot on building anticipation as the engine warms. On a warm Brisbane day it does not take too long for the car to reach operating temperature. You select first gear, release the firm but not heavy clutch and you are away. Within minutes it is obvious this Indy is mechanically sorted. The car pulls strongly and willingly through the rev range and the actual gear change is firm and precise. The ride of the car is exceptional; there are no rattles or squeaks and it handles particularly well. The brakes pull the car up swiftly and in a straight line. We like the fact that this car does not have power steering. It is a little heavy at parking speed but the feedback whilst actually drivingthe car is superb!
The current owner is getting to the pointy end of another classic Maserati project and space does not allow him to keep both cars. As such, he has made the difficult decision to part ways with this car and it is ready for its next owner to use and enjoy.
The big money has been spent on this car and its next owner will be able sleep at night knowing that cosmetically this car is better than new!
We think that Maserati Indys are under rated and they offer great value at approximately half the cost of a Ghibli and significantly less than its cross town rivals from Ferrari and Lamborghini.
Accompanying the car is an excellent history file which includes a plethora of invoices for the work completed over the years, photographs of the car from its cosmetic restoration, an original parts manual, a copy of an owners manuals, a jack kit and various new & used parts.
Highlights:
- 1 of only 13 Australian delivered, factory right hand drive Maserati Indys.
- Matching numbers example.
- Recent bare metal repaint in its original and STUNNING colour.
- Good history file.
- An absolute delight to drive.
Price $189,950.
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 Salone dAutomobile de Genève 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. It was offered initially with its 4.2 litre quad cam V8 and later with the 4.7 litre and 4.9 litre engines also. The car was available with either manual or automatic transmission.
Maserati anoraks will appreciate the Indy production data (provided by Maserati) that notes a breakdown of cars as: 4,200cc engine (440 cars), 4,700cc engine (364 cars) and 4,900cc engine (300 cars of which 200 cars had Citroen brakes). Of the 1,104 Maserati Indys built only 74 were right hand drive. There were only 13 Australian delivered, factory right hand drive Maserati Indys. Of these, 7 had the 4,200cc engine (5 had manual transmission / 2 had automatic) and 6 had the 4,700 engine (4 had manual transmission / 2 had automatic).

1971 MASERATI INDY 4.2 Manual

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this Australian delivered Mercedes-Benz 380SL.
The warranty card on file confirms this car was delivered to its first owner on the 25th September 1983.The first owner is noted as a company, AJM Pty Ltd in Darling Point, Sydney, NSW.
Further, the warranty card confirms that the car was delivered new in champagne metallic (paint code 473) with a palomino interior (trim code 154), which is how the car is presented today.
The option code plate in the engine bay provides us with information on how the car left the factory. It had the following options:
- Option Code: 440 Bumpers with guards
- Option Code: 470 ABS
- Option Code: 505 Outside rear view mirror
- Option Code: 585 Behr Air conditioner and electric windows
- Option Code: 599 Heat insulating glass for side and rear windows
The car also has a factory hard top.
The original dealer stock number plate is still fitted in the engine bay and the number matches that noted on the warranty card on file.
We are also able to confirm that the car retains its original matching numbers engine.
The early history of this car is not known. At some stage it found its way from Sydney to Adelaide in South Australia where it remained for a long time. Information on file indicates the car was owned by well respected Adelaide surgeon Dr DL Hribar in the early 1990s and at that time the car was registered as VNL 529. By around 2010 the car was owned by Mrs Janet Beresford from Leabrook, a suburb east of the Adelaide. The car was still registered with the plates VNL 529.
Mrs Beresford sold the car to the current owners in 2016 and at that time the odometer read approximately 142,000 km.
The car was starting to show its age and the new owner invested some time and money to improve it both cosmetically and mechanically. He had the car repainted in its original colour of champagne metallic, the grill and badges restored, the steering wheel was replaced with one from a later model car (the original is with the car), installed new wheel arch moulds, installed new sound deadener under the bonnet, replaced the rear muffler, had the tail shaft reconditioned and had the car serviced.
The car was used and enjoyed sparingly over the next 8 years, travelling some 2,000 km in that time. Unfortunately, the owner passed away in 2024, which is the reason that the car is now offered for sale.
At the time of photographing the odometer read 144,536 kilometres.
Today, the car is best described as very original and a genuinely lovely driver quality example. While not perfect, it presents very well and the colour combination is in our view just right. With the soft top down, it gives the car a particularly elegant appearance.
Overall the paint on the car is still very presentable. In fact, from a meter away and in our photos the car looks amazing. Upon closer inspection there are some imperfections in the paint, which look to be humidity blisters. These are most noticeably on the right rear quarter panel and on the boot lid.
The bright work on the car presents very well. The chrome bumpers, grill, mirrors, wheel arch moulds and the window surrounds are all in good condition. We did notice some marks on the rubber inserts on the bumpers. The badges both on the bonnet and on the boot lid are in very good condition.
The car is fitted with the stylish 14 inch Mexican hat wheels which we understand were an option for this era of Mercedes-Benz. They are shod with Supercat 215/65R14 tyres, which are date stamped 2407 (week 24, 2007). The wheels still present well.
Both the soft top (dark brown) and the hard top (champagne metallic) are in good condition. We did notice a very small imperfection on the left rear corner of the soft top. The rear window and both quarter windows on the soft top are clear and have not been affected the sun.
Inside the cabin it is a similar story. The interior presents well and the palomino upholstery compliments the champagne metallic paintwork. The colour combination is timeless and just suits the car. The upholstery and most notable the seats are still in a good condition with no rips or tears in the leather. The seats have that typical seventies and eighties Mercedes-Benz feel, where you sit on the seat rather than in it, however, once out on the road they are actually quite comfortable. The top of the dashboard is in very good condition. We did notice a very small crack near the windscreen but that could easily be repaired. The instruments are crisp and clean. They appear to be in good working order with the exception of the economy gauge. The carpets present well as does the storage area behind the seats.
The car starts easily, even from cold and settles into a smooth idle rather quickly. The engine is quiet, as you would expect. Theres no theatrics. A Mercedes-Benz 380SL is best described as a refined, relaxed grand tourer rather than a sharp sports car. It is a well mannered car that does exactly what you expect it to do in that very typical Germanic way. It just goes about its business and it is a car that makes every journey feel unrushed and special. The engine feels strong, the gearchanges are smooth and the car handles, steers and stops as it should. The brakes pull the car up quickly though we did notice they do pull to the right when braking hard.
The Mercedes-Benz 380SL blends classic Mercedes-Benz quality and durability with understated elegance through its long bonnet, clean lines and a confident, stance. Built to cruise effortlessly, the 380SL offers smooth V8 power, a comfortable ride and the kind of engineering that feels reassuringly uncompromised.
When driving a 380 SL it is easy to forget that you are driving a 40 year old car. Sure it doesnt have all the modern electronic gadgets but it is still a very comfortable and enjoyable car to drive. Its a car designed for covering distance in comfort, with the roof down and no sense of hurry. Even today, it is still a very usable car that could comfortably serve as a daily driver. That said it is most likely that this car will serve as a great weekend driver which would be a welcome appearance at any cars and coffee or Mercedes-Benz club event. You can use and enjoy the car as it is, or if you choose to do so take it up to the next level.
There is no doubt that the R107 model range has aged very well. It is still a very elegant and sophisticated open top Mercedes-Benz. We think they are good value, particularly the 380SL when compared to its big brother the 560SL.
Accompanying this car is a history file, owners manual, a new spare (black) soft top, a wind deflector, the original steering wheel, a spare wheel, a jack and an emergency triangle
Highlights:
- Australian delivered factory RHD example.
- Presented in the most elegant and sophisticated colour combination.
- Relatively low mileage compared to most of this era R107s
- Great value two door open top Mercedes-Benz.
- Use and enjoy as is, or easy to take up to the next level.
Price $52,950
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 Roadster. 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) / 500 SL(C) and 560 SL models built throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
In recent years the demand for these cars has skyrocketed, though the later cars have remained relatively affordable compared to the Type W113 models and present an excellent buying opportunity in todays market.

MERCEDES-BENZ 380SL

Details
Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this Australian delivered, factory right hand drive 1976 Lamborghini Urraco P300.
Lamborghini built only 205 Urraco P300s of which it is understood that 34 were right hand drive. There were only 12 Australian delivered cars, making this a very unique example.
According to the Lamborghini factory records, this car was completed on the 8th November 1976. The car was originally giallo fly (yellow - paint code 2469019) with a nero (black) interior.
This car has an excellent history file, including its book set which contains the owners manual, service & warranty book and dealer directory in a Lamborghini leather pouch. There is also the original sales invoice, noting that the car was sold by Lolita Automobili Developments in Sydney to its first owner Mr MA Broso from Junee, just north of Wagga Wagga, NSW on the 8th May 1978.
The car was featured in issue #6 January February 1996 of the Lamborghini Club of Australias club magazine The Bulls Roar. In that article it is mentioned the car was on display at the Lolita stand at the 1978 Sydney International Motor Show. The article goes on to mention the car was initially intended to be the first prize in a Weet-Bix promotion and it was painted entirely yellow with a silly rear wing bolted on. The Weet-Bix promotion fell through and before the car went to its first owner the wing was removed.
The service book notes that the car was first serviced in February 1979 at 926 km (1,000 km service) and next in June 1982 at 5,242 km (5,000 km service). At that time the car was still owned by Broso.
By 1987 the car had changed hands and into the ownership of Ian Minter from Sydney. It was registered as LU300 (NSW). Minter had the car regularly service by Lolita Automobile Developments. An invoice from February 1990 notes the mileage as 19,962 km.
Minter sold the car through John McGrath & Co mid 1993 to a well known Sydney based Lamborghini enthusiast and at that time the odometer showed a genuine 26,000 km. The registration LU300 (NSW) was transferred with the car.
In 1996 the car changed hands, joining the collection of another Sydney based enthusiast and at that time the odometer read 36,463 km. Immediately after purchasing the car the registration was changed to the NSW private plate 2255. Additionally, its new owner chose to have the chrome window trims and door handles painted black, which gives the car a more aggressive look. He also had seats fitted from a Lamborghini Silhouette. These were retrimmed and there is an invoice on file from Clifford Powell in Darlinghurst in Sydney dated 21st September 1996.
The car remained in continuous ownership for the next 20 years, during which time it was used sparingly, travelling some 4,000 km.
By 2018 the car had found its way to Victoria. There is a Victorian certificate of roadworthiness on file dated 7th June 2018 which notes the odometer as 40,240 km. It has passed through a few owners in Melbourne before being acquired by its current Melbourne based owner just over two years ago.
Today the odometer reads 40,701 km.
The car makes an excellent first impression.
The Lamborghini Urraco is a stunning Bertone design and the shape carries colour extremely well. Most Lamborghinis look fabulous in yellow, however, it really does suit the Urraco. On this car, the yellow paint contrasts nicely with the black bumpers, louvers, window trims and engine cover.
The paint is in a really good condition. It has retained a strong depth of colour and high gloss finish. There are some very small and minor imperfections in the paint but you have to look hard to find them. Most noticeable is a small chip on the edge of the drivers door.
The external trim and the glass present well and the Lamborghini, Urraco and Bertone badges are present and correct. We love the In Rodaggio sticker on the front windscreen.
The Campagnolo wheels are in good condition with only a few small marks on them. They are shod with period correct Michelin XWX tyres size 205/70 VR14. They are date stamped 1115 (week 11, 2015) and are still in excellent condition. There is also an original spare wheel with the car.
The interior presents really well and being a 2+2 the cabin is quite spacious. The front seats are comfortable and provide ample support. The fabric is in a good condition with no rips or tears present. The rear seats have probably never been used and they along with the door cards and centre console present nicely. The dashboard, which looks to be original, also presents well. All the instruments are clean, clear and appear to be in a good working order. Urraco is stencilled on the gear shifter gate surround, which is just so period Italian. The steering wheel is showing some signs of wear but a good leather doctor could easily bring it up a level or two. The car is fitted with air conditioning and it was working well on our recent test drive, though do not expect the same performance as in a modern day car.
We do have a soft spot for the V8 Lamborghinis (the Urraco, Silhouette and Jalpa) and from the moment this car arrived at our showroom we were genuinely excited to find out if it drove as good as it looks. When the time came to take the car out for a photo shoot and test drive, we were not to be disappointed.
The car starts easily, even from cold and quickly settles into a smooth idle. That V8 sound is quite something and it is one of those things that if you know you know! Out on the open road our first impressions are confirmed. This car drives superbly. The engine revs freely, the throttle response is almost instant and the car just wants to go. The gearbox is often a weak point on a Urraco, especially when its cold. Shifting into second gear can often be difficult, but not on this car. The gear changes are smooth, both up and down the box, even when cold. Once it warms up it only gets better. The car handles superbly and the steering is quite direct. The brakes also work very well and pull the car up quickly and in a straight line when needed. Having period correct tyres on the car just adds to the look and also the driving experience.
As noted in our background story below, Mel Nichols wrote in the July - September 1976 issue of Sports Car World magazine . . . I was not hard pressed to conclude that the Urraco 3-litre is the most enjoyable car I have ever driven.
We understand why!
The current owner has recently had a change of direction with his car collection and therefore reluctantly decided to sell a few cars, including this Lamborghini Urraco P300.
As a result, we are delighted to offer a unique opportunity to acquire a rare and highly desirable junior supercar. These V8 bulls from SantAgata fly under the radar compared to their big brother V12s . . . but for how much longer?
Accompanying the car is an excellent history file, including its book set which contains the owners manual, service & warranty book and dealer directory in a Lamborghini leather pouch as well as a spare wheel.
Highlights:
Rare 3.0 litre Urraco
Australian delivered, factory RHD, matching numbers example
Excellent history file with original service book
Ready to use and enjoy
Price $249,950.
Background
The Lamborghini story is fascinating in itself, but for the company to have survived all these years and indeed celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2013 is quite amazing. Ferruccio Lamborghini was an entrepreneur, a very successful businessman and a lover of the finer things in life, including sports cars. He was fortunate enough to own some wonderful cars including Ferraris however, he found fault with them all. According to the legend following a meeting with Enzo Ferrari to discuss some of the short comings of his cars Enzo dismissed Ferruccio and he subsequently decided that he could build a better car.
Not long after, in May 1963, Automobili Ferruccio Lamborghini SPA was established and the small town of Sant'Agata Bolognese, located between Modena and Bologna, was chosen as the location to build the factory. Born under the Zodiac sign Taurus Lamborghini chose the raging bull as the emblem for his sports cars.
Lamborghini knew what he wanted and he put together a highly skilled team. His first car the 350 GTV was shown at the Turin Motor Show in October 1963. This car received mixed reviews; however, Lamborghini was not deterred and made a number of improvements and design changes to the original concept. The first Lamborghini production car the 350 GT left the factory in mid-1964.
The 350 GT evolved into the 400 GT 2+2 and later the Islero. In parallel to building these classic front engine V12 GT cars Lamborghini wanted to build a super car, enter the Miura first shown as a rolling chassis in 1965, and also a GT car that could comfortably seat four people, enter the Espada in 1968. The mid to late sixties were good times for Lamborghini and his cars were revered the world over.
In 1970 the Islero was replaced by the Jarama. Lamborghini also wanted to enter the junior supercar market and introduced the Urraco or little bull, named for the fighting bull which killed the toreador Manoleten, at the 1970 Turin Motor Show. The Urraco attracted huge interest from the motoring world and Bertones classic wedge shape received critical acclaim at the time.
It wasnt until some two years later, in 1972, that the first production cars rolled off the Sant Agata production line. Lamborghini hoped to build the Urraco in big numbers, however, this never eventuated and only 520 of the P250s were built up until 1975 when the P300 was released. The world economy changed quickly and the early 1970s were a tough time for Lamborghini. Additionally, the Urraco had some teething problems early on and the car unfortunately developed a reputation as unreliable. This was perhaps unfair as once Lamborghini ironed out the bugs the car was in fact a little gem and properly sorted was a genuine threat to Ferraris 308, Maseratis Merak and the Porsche 911 of the day. The Urraco P300 was indeed a fabulous little car and in Sports Car World magazine July September 1976 Mel Nichols wrote: . . . I was not hard pressed to conclude that the Urraco 3-litre is the most enjoyable car I have ever driven. In the October 1978 issue of Car Magazine Nichols pits the Lamborghini Urracoagainst a Ferrari 308 GTB and a Maserati Merak SS. The article is compelling reading and Nichols picks the Urraco as his favourite.
Only 205 Urraco P300s were built. Lamborghini also built 66 Urraco P200s (with a 2 litre V8 engine) specifically for the Italian market.

LAMBORGHINI URRACO P300

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this factory right hand drive, 1991 Ferrari Testarossa.
The car is finished in the most striking and unique colour combination of Grigio Metallic, paint code FER 700/C with a dark blue interior (Blu Scuro 3282). What a fabulous colour combination for a Testarossa. It just gives the car a very distinguished appearance.
Documentation on file from the Maranello Concessionaires Archive confirms the information above. It also confirms this car is a matching numbers example where engine, gearbox, chassis and assembly number are all correct.
This car was first registered as a demonstrator by Maranello Sales Limited in Egham, Surrey, UK on 5th April 1991. It was registered as EHF1, a plate Maranello Sales often uses for registering demonstrators.
Accompany this car is its original book set, including the service book, which confirms that this Ferrari Testarossa retains its original matching numbers engine. The service book confirms that this car was regularly serviced throughout its life. From new through until 2003 all the work was completed by Maranello Concessionaires. The service book entries note:
- 15/05/1991 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 1,137 miles
- 12/01/1993 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 5.801 miles
- 11/10/1993 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 8,994 miles
- 23/12/1994 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 11,355 miles
- 16/02/1995 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 11,400 miles
- 07/09/1995 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 14,495 miles
- 24/12/1999 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 18,380 miles
- 10/04/2003 by Maranello Concessionaires @ 18,766 miles
- 05/01/2005 by Ferrari Edinburgh @ 19,698 miles
- 25/06/2006 by Dick Lovett @ 21.852 miles
- 17/01/2008 by QV London @ 24,348 miles
- 15/09/2009 by Verdi for Ferrari @ 26,600 miles
- 30/01/2011 by Verdi for Ferrari @ 26,900 miles
- 12/11/2015 by Maranello Auto Services Gold Coast @ 28,178 miles
- 28/11/2019 by Maranello Auto Services Gold Coast @ 28,459 miles
The car passed through a few owners in the UK before being acquired by the current Gold Coast based owner on the 2nd March 2010. When he acquired the car the odometer read 26,546 miles. In the UK the car was registered as H705LPE.
After acquiring the car the current owner kept the car in the UK until 2013 when it was imported into Australia. There is an import approval on file dated 10th April 2013. The car finally arrived in Australia on the 10th July 2013. It was then put through the compliance process and finally registered in Queensland on 4th February 2014.
Prior to shipping the car to Australia, the radiator was rebuilt, the brake discs and pads were replaced and the front track rod ends were replaced.
In October 2014 the owner decided to fit a new Larini sports exhaust system. In November 2015 two new upgraded fuel pumps were fitted. The work was completed by Maranello Auto Services on the Gold Coast.
In November 2019, with 28,459 miles on the odometer, Maranello Auto Services serviced the car and replaced the timing belts.
In December 2022 Ferrari Gold Coast serviced the brakes and overhauled the callipers. At that time the odometer read 28,476 miles. In May 2023 they refurbished the fuse box and the associated circuit boards. Then in March 2025, they repaired a leak in the AC system , replaced the rocker cover drain tube gaskets and repaired a minor leak in the coolant tank.
Throughout his 15 years of ownership, the current owner has used the car sparingly, travelling some 2,000 miles in this time.
At time of photographing this car the odometer read 28,637mls which is confirmed by its service book as genuine.
From the moment we first laid eyes on this car we have been infatuated by the colour. It is refreshing to see a Testarossa in a colour different other than the ubiquitous red or black! Note: we do love Testarossas in red and black, but Grigio Metallic is something special!
Overall the paint on the car is in very good condition and it has retained a strong depth of colour and a deep gloss finish. If you look closely youll see the odd small imperfection but they are hard to see. The condition of the paint is more consistent with a car that has travelled c28,000 miles, rather than one that is 34 years old!
The glass is all in good condition with no cracks evident. The same can be said for all the external trim, including the lights and lenses.
Importantly, this car is clean underneath and it is NOT your typical English car. It has obviously been looked after in the UK and probably rarely or never used on salty roads. Its condition is equal to what you would see when inspecting an Australian delivered car, though of course the Ferrari Testarossa was never sold new in Australia. We have underside photos we can share with interested parties.
The wheels are the original 16 inch alloys, shod with Michelin Pilot Sport SX tyres, size 255/50/ZR16. The tyres are still in a good condition but the date stamps on them tell us they are old and really should be replaced on age if the next owner is considering doing some serious driving with the car.
The font luggage compartment is neat, clean and tidy. The space saver spare wheel is stored under the carpet.
Inside the cabin everything presents well, showing some light patina in places. The upholstery is dark blue, which compliments the paint work perfectly. The seats are firm and provide ample support. The leather is in a good condition with no tears evident, though both seats have some minor scratches on the side. On the drivers seat this is most likely caused by scratching the leather when engaging and disengaging the hand brake. A good leather doctor can easily repair this. The navy blue carpets are also in very good condition. The hard rubber mat on the drivers door sill shows some wear. The dashboard is a weak point on a Testarossa as the leather often pulls loose. On this car it is in excellent condition. All the instruments are clear and appear to be in good working order. The leather steering wheel also presents well.
Ferraris are made to be driven and we were genuinely excited to take this one out for a short test drive and photo shoot. We were not disappointed and a Ferrari Testarossa is also surprisingly easy to drive.
The car starts easily from cold and then quickly settles into a smooth idle. The Larini sports exhaust certainly gives the car an edge, without being too loud. After allowing the engine some time to warm up we gently nudge the car out into the morning traffic. A Ferrari Testarossa is a wide car at almost 2 meters, though you do not really notice that when you are driving it. Fortunately, the mirrors work well and give you a good sense of the dimensions of the car.
This car ticks a lot of boxes. It drives superbly, the engine revs freely and there is plenty of power on tap when you need it. The gearbox is smooth and the gear changes are easy both up and down the box. This car is a very useable car. It is quite happy to just sit in traffic and drive around town at 60 km/h, yet when the road opens up and traffic clears and you get the opportunity to shift down and press the accelerator to the floor you do realise that this is a real super car and you could very easily get yourself into trouble! With a quoted top speed of circa 285 km/hr and 0 100 km/hr in a tick over 5 seconds, the Ferrari Testarossa was one of the fastest cars you could buy in the late 1980s / early 1990s. Given the performance, it was pleasing to note that the brakes work well and pull the car up quickly and in a straight line when needed.
We are genuinely excited to offer for sale this well maintained, beautifully presented, factory right hand drive Ferrari Testarossa that is finished in a unique colour scheme.
Based on time, the car is due for a cam belt service.
Accompanying the car is the space saver spare wheel, jack, tool kit, book set (including its service book) in the correct leather pouch, an excellent history file and its original UK number plate.
An interesting fact is that in 1991 Top Gear did an episode titled A Week with a Ferrari 348, in which this Ferrari Testarossa made a cameo appearance.
Highlights:
- A desirable factory RHD example.
- Fabulous original colour scheme.
- Matching numbers, books & tools.
- Excellent service history and well maintained.
Price: $349,950
Background:
Apple, Coca-Cola, McDonalds and Nike are brands recognisable the world over. So is Ferrari and interestingly the iconic Italian luxury sports car manufacturer was named The Worlds Strongest Brand in the 2019 Brand Finance Global 500 Report.
Founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1939 out of Alfa Romeos race division as Auto Avio Costruzioni the company built its first car in 1940.
The Cavallino Rampate or prancing horse was the symbol chosen by Ferrari and like the golden arches it is recognised by just about every man, woman and child on the planet!
Twelve cylinder engines are synonymous with Ferrari. In fact, Enzo Ferraris very first car, the 1947 125S was powered by a 1.5 Litre V12 engine. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s the majority of Enzos masterpieces were powered by V12 engines of varying capacity. Interestingly all of these cars had the engine located in the front. Cross town rivals Lamborghini introduced their stunning Miura in 1966, which was powered by a transversely mounted V12 engine located behind the driver. This spectacular car took the motoring world by storm and sent shock waves throughout Ferrari HQ in Maranello. Ferraris answer, the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, was a fabulous motor car in its own right, but there was always something about the mid-engined sports car that gave it an edge.
It took until 1971 for Ferrari to unveil its first mid-engined sports car, the 365 GT/4 Berlinetta Boxer. The Boxer was very well received and it ultimately went into production and replaced the Daytona in 1973. Interestingly Ferrari opted for a flat 12 rather than a V12 engine configuration. The engine was mounted longitudinally rather than transversely as Lamborghini did with the Miura.
The Boxer was a great success for Ferrari and along with the Lamborghini Countach was one of the very real supercars of the seventies. The 365 GT/4 Berlinetta Boxer (387 cars built) was replaced by the 512 Berlinetta Boxer (929 cars built) in 1976, which was then replaced by the 512 BBi (1007 cars built) in 1981.
In 1984 at the Paris Auto Show Ferrari introduced the Ferrari Testarossa (Tipo F110) as a successor to the 512BBi.
The name was chosen to pay homage to the famed World Sportscar Championship winning 1957 250 Testa Rossa sports racing car. Testa Rossa, which literally means red head in Italian, refers to the red painted cam covers sported by both cars 12 cylinder engines.
The car was a huge success for Ferrari with its then flagship selling in massive number the world over. Incredibly, 7,177 Testarossas were built over eight years of production. Its successor, the 512 TR was introduced in 1991 and just over 2,200 cars were built through until 1994. The final iteration of the Testarossa was the 512M, produced from 1994 to 1996 with just over 500 cars built.

1991 FERRARI TESTAROSSA

Oldtimer Australia is offering for sale a 1975 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible.
This first series Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible is one of 1,232 examples produced between 1971 and 1977.
The car specification sheet on file dated 30th July 1974 confirms this car was ordered to the following specification: paint colour - cardinal red (L68-RV-006), interior - black (VM.8500), hood - black (5218), headlining - grey (TRA.42), carpet - cherry red (21), fine lines - double black (PWS.1426). The car was ordered by Rolls-Royce dealer HA Fox (Washam Stringer) from London, UK.
This Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible was ordered with the following options: fog lamps, Firestone black radial tyres, plain Sundym glass throughout, fire extinguisher and a badge bar.
The first owner, L Archer-Davis from London, took delivery of his car on the 2nd May 1975 and it was first registered as HYK911N.
Accompanying this car is its original service book, which interestingly notes the first service was completed on the 30th May 1975 by Rolls-Royce dealer Turnbull & Gamble in Beverly Hills, California in the USA. At that time the odometer read 3,836 miles.
The next service was completed in November 1975 by Rolls-Royce in London, UK and at that time the odometer read 7,780 miles. Over the next four years or so the car was used and enjoyed as its makers intended. It was regularly serviced, as confirmed by the entries in the service book
In the early 1980s the car found its way to Australia. The last recorded service in the UK was executed by H.R. Owen on the 24th July 1980 and at that time the odometer read 64,300 miles. The first recorded service in Australia was completed by York Motors on the 27th July 1982 and at that time the odometer read 69,502 miles.
It is understood the car was acquired by Neville Burrow from Goulburn, NSW on the 28th of July 2012 and at that time the odometer read 16,212 miles (116,212 miles).
The current owner who lives on the Gold Coast acquired the car on the 22nd September 2015 and at that time the odometer read 17,617 miles (117,617 miles). He has used and enjoyed the car in the past 10 years ranking up some 23,000 miles and at the time of photographing the odometer read 40,980 miles (140,980 miles).
The car is owned by a passionate Rolls-Royce enthusiast who is an active member of the Rolls-Royce Owners Club and the car is regularly seen at events in and around south east Queensland.
In his ownership the car has been regularly serviced and maintained. In recent years it has been maintained and serviced by Pauls Nerang Mechanical Workshop, Prestige Mechanics Gold Coast and Eldens Autobahn, all based on the Gold Coast.
A Rolls-Royce commands attention wherever it goes, and this example is no different. The current owner says it consistently draws admiration and enthusiastic compliments every time he takes it out. The colour of Cardinal Red is quite unique and we think striking. With the top down the car has a commanding presence on the road.
As you approach the car, the first thing that captures your attention is the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, proudly poised atop the radiator. Few hood ornaments are as instantly recognisable as this legendary figure.
A Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible is a very elegant car and this particular example has aged very well. The paint on the car is generally in good condition. This is a car that has been used and enjoyed. It is definitely not a trailer queen and therefore, there are some stone chips and minor paint imperfections visible. A nice touch is the black pin striping, which matches the black upholstery and really suits the car. Importantly, all the panel gaps are really good on this car.
The bright work on the car is in good condition throughout. Most prominent, of course, is the grille, crowned by the Spirit of Ecstasy, which presents very well with no signs of damage. The bumpers, including the front badge bar, are also in good order. Likewise, the headlight surrounds, door handles, and window trims all show nicely. All lights are functioning correctly, and the lenses are clear and free from cracks. All the glass on the car is in a good condition with no cracks or chips evident.
The wheel trims and RR inscribed hub caps are another feature on a Rolls-Royce Corniche and they present well on this car. The steel wheels are shod with Nankang Toursport NS tyres, size 225/75R15. These tyres are date stamped 1524 (week 15, 2024).
The electric soft top operates smoothly and can be raised or lowered with ease, an effortless task that can comfortably be handled by your chauffeur alone! It remains in good condition overall, with a clear rear window that maintains excellent visibility.
Under the bonnet everything looks to be very original, neat and tidy. The boot is similarly well presented.
The interior presents very well. The seats are in good condition, displaying just the right amount of patina to reflect the cars character without detracting from its appeal. They are comfortable and offer excellent support, with leather that remains soft and free from any rips or tears. The rear seats are in similarly fine condition and appear to have seen very little use.
The timber dashboard is a standout feature, providing a beautiful contrast to the rest of the interior. Overall, the woodwork throughout the car presents very well, with only a few minor blemishes visible. The Smiths instruments are clear and display nicely. On our test drive they all appeared to be functioning as they should and in good working order.
We were keen to see whether the car drives as impressively as it presents. The short answer is that it most certainly does. The engine fires up readily, even from cold, settling into a smooth, refined idle. As a matter of course, we allow it to warm up before setting off. On the road, despite its considerable presence, the Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible is surprisingly a very easy car to drive. The engine is smooth and quiet, yet delivering ample power effortlessly when called upon. The gearbox shifts seamlessly, with changes that are almost imperceptible. The power assisted steering makes tight turns and manoeuvring effortless. When called upon, the brakes bring the car to a swift, straight and reassuring stop.
The car has speed control, though we did not get the opportunity to use it on our test drive.
The current owner has thoroughly enjoyed his time with this Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible, however, after 10 years of ownership feels the time is right for him to move in a different direction.
Accompanying the car is an owners manual, the original service book, the build sheets, a very good history file with receipts for all the work completed over the last circa 20 years, a complete original toolkit, a jack and a spare wheel.
Highlights:
- Well presented example in a unique, original colour.
- Matching numbers.
- Good history file which includes the build sheets.
- Excellent club car, ready to use and enjoy.
Price $89,950
Background
The legend that was to become Rolls-Royce was founded in May 1904 when a deal was struck between Frederick Henry Royce and Charles Stewart Rolls. Shortly after, the first Rolls-Royce motor car the Rolls-Royce 10 hp was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in December 1904. It was agreed that Rolls-Royce would initially manufacture four different models being a two cylinder 10hp model, a three cylinder 15hp model, a four cylinder 20hp model and a six cylinder 20hp model. It was immediately apparent that to manufacture their cars Rolls-Royce would require a larger factory and the decision was made to establish their headquarters and manufacturing facility on the outskirts of Derby in the East Midlands of England.
On the 15th March 1906 the company Rolls-Royce Limited was formed and during this year Royce had been developing an improved six cylinder model with more power than the 30hp. Initially designated the 40/50hp, this was the companys first all-new model that was also to become known as the Silver Ghost.
Like all car manufacturers, Rolls-Royce was impacted by the First World War. Times were tough and post war the company made a strategic decision to manufacture a cheaper smaller car, enter the Rolls-Royce 20hp. This model was a success and produced alongside the Silver Ghost and its successor the Phantom ensuring the Rolls-Royce motor car company would survive and prosper.
In 1931 Rolls-Royce acquired the Bentley motor car company.
Post the Second World War a significant milestone in Rolls-Royce history was the introduction of the Silver Dawn, which was the first model with a factory built body. In April 1955 Rolls-Royce introduced the Silver Cloud and for the next eleven years this model was at the cornerstone of Rolls-Royce production. The Cloud evolved through three major model iterations, being the Silver Cloud I, Silver Cloud II and Silver Cloud III until it was superseded by the Silver Shadow. The last of the Silver Clouds rolled off the Crewe production line in 1965 although specialist coachbuilders were still offering the Cloud III in early 1966. During this time some 7,372 cars were built.
One of the major changes to occur during Silver Cloud production was to the engine. The 4.9 litre 6 cylinder engine used in the Cloud I was replaced by a 6.2 litre V8 engine for the Cloud II. This change ensured the Cloud II had far greater performance all round.
With the arrival of the Cloud III in 1963 the car had now evolved both internally and externally, albeit subtly. The major visual difference was the introduction of the quad head light set up that was to be continued on the Silver Shadow and a lowered bonnet. The Cloud III also shed a few kilos further improving performance and handling.
In 1965 the Silver Cloud III was replaced by the Silver Shadow. The Silver Shadow remained in production through until 1980 and became the largest production volume model for the company at that time with just over 30,000 produced.
In 1966 Rolls-Royce introduced a two door version of the Silver Shadow, the Mulliner Park Ward Coupe followed by a drophead coupe in 1967, the Mulliner Park Ward Drophead Coupe.
In 1971 Rolls-Royce decided to rename the Mulliner Park Models as a Corniche. The Corniche was great success story for Rolls-Royce and incredibly it remained in production for more than 25 years, spanning five different series. In total 5,172 Corniche Convertibles were built, plus an another 506 Silver Shadow Mulliner Park Ward Convertibles.

ROLLS-ROYCE CORNICHE

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this beautifully restored, factory right hand drive 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 Roadster.
The Heritage Certificate on file confirms this particular example was delivered new in the UK through Jaguar dealer Ernest W Hatfield in Sheffield. The car was manufactured on 29th April 1970 and despatched on 22nd June 1970. It was finished in light blue with a dark blue interior and a blue soft top. The first owner is noted as FA Tomlinson and the car was first registered with the registration GWJ 64J. This E-type also has a hard top.
The early history of the car is not known, though it is understood that at some stage it was owned by an Australian working in the UK.
This Jaguar E-Type found its way to Australia some time prior to 1989 and it eventually ended up in a shed on a cane farm in Murwillumbah, NSW. The owner had passed away and the family had every intention to restore the car, but as often is the case it never happened. This car sat alongside another E-Type, a Series 1 2+2, in the same shed for some 15 years.
The current owner stumbled across the pair of E-Types in early 2015 and after a short negotiation a deal was struck for him to purchase this Series 2 Roadster. At that time the odometer read 90,588 miles.
After some weed cutting the car was able to be removed from the shed and it was then loaded on a tilt tray and taken back to Brisbane. There are photos on file of the car from the day it was collected.
The car was in reasonably good condition, given it has been parked up for so many years. It therefore need major recommissioning, which evolved into a total restoration.
D.M. Car Repairs in Coopers Plains on the south side of Brisbane in Queensland were tasked with getting the car back on the road. It was recommissioned, which included a major service, replacing all the hoses and perishables as well as other miscellaneous parts. The braking system required a major overhaul. Progress was slow and over the next two years the car spend a lot of time in the workshop getting sorted.
During that time the owner also had the interior refurbished. He purchased all the necessary items from John Skinner Limited in the UK and had all the work done by Archerfield Auto Upholsterers in Archerfield in Brisbanes north.
The car was then taken to respected Jaguar specialists Classic and Prestige in Brisbane for more work. Amongst other things they repaired the steering column, recored the radiator, cleaned the fuel system (including the tank), repaired the heater box, replaced floor panels and reconditioned the differential.
By now it was apparent that the car was being treated to a full restoration.
In 2018 the car was repainted by the highly respected Exclusive Auto Centre in Brisbane.
Following the repaint, the car was then registered and used sporadically. The owner was never really happy with the gearbox and after doing his homework he decided to send the car to Jaguar specialist Mike Roddy in Melbourne to have the gearbox rebuilt.
There is a thick file of receipts on file for parts ordered from SNG Barratt in the UK, dating from 216 to 2020.
After removing the engine and gearbox from the car it was decided that both should be rebuilt. The current owner always wanted to make his E-Type a more usable classic and after a long discussion with Mike Roddy and looking at the pros and cons of the various options, he decided to install a 5 speed Borg-Warner T5 gearbox. Additionally, a power steering conversion kit supplied by Vicarage in the UK was installed, ventilated front discs from a Series 3 V12 E-type were fitted and a modern air conditioning system was installed.
There is a complete write up on file of all the items that were replaced, rebuilt or upgraded. Essentially, everything from the bulkhead forward was rebuilt.
They also installed a new soft top on the car.
The car was finally completed in early 2025. There is a thick file of receipts and photographs from the restoration.
The end result is a stunning car, presented in the most magnificent and original colour scheme and, with its modern upgrades, very usable all year round.
At the time of photographing this car the odometer read 91,635 miles, confirming this car has had very little use since it was awoken from its long term slumber some ten years ago.
Jaguar E-Types carry colour very well and as result they look great it any hue. As you will see from the photographs, light blue looks absolutely stunning and it really suits the car. The dark blue interior and soft top complete the look. It is a very elegant colour combination for an E-Type and it makes you wonder why you dont see more of them in this colour scheme.
Even though the paint is now 7 years old, it still presents vibrantly with a strong depth of colour. It is in very good condition with only a few small imperfections visible if you look hard. The external trim on an E-Type is minimalistic and everything presents consistently well with the rest of the car.
At time of photographing the car one of the Lucas headlights had blown. This is evident in the photos, however, it has been subsequently replaced. The other lights and lenses on the car are all in very good condition. The glass is also in good condition.
All the bright work on the car is in very good condition, with the exception of the rear bumper. For some reason the chrome on the left hand side of the bumper as it wraps around the rear guard is hazy. The defect is not immediately obvious, but on closer inspection it is there.
The soft top on the car presents like new and the rear and quarter windows are all in excellent condition with no discoloration evident.
The hard top, which is a nice inclusion, has also been restored.
A set of five new wire wheels were purchased from Australian Classic Wire Wheels in August 2019. They are in excellent condition. The wheels are shod with Vredestein Sprint Classic tyres, size 185HR15 which are date stamped 0213 (week 2, 2013).
The interior was completely refurbished and it is therefore no surprise that it is in excellent condition. All of the dark blue upholstery presents beautifully and is totally fresh. The seats are comfortable and provide an excellent driving position. The ornate timber steering wheel is a feature and completes the look. The dashboard presents well and all the instruments are clear and appear to be in good working order. Behind the seats you will find the discreetly fitted air conditioning unit. It works well and blows cold air.
We were genuinely excited to get this new Jaguar E-Type out on road.
With the help of the choke the car starts easily from cold and then quickly settles into a smooth idle. You can back the choke off almost immediately and feather the throttle to warm the engine up.
One could almost time warp back to the Browns Lane factory in Coventry in 1970 as you get the car out on the open road. You could be on a road test for Autocar magazine! The only difference was that it is the middle of summer here in Brisbane rather than a bleak British winters day!
It was an early start, but it was going to be a hot day, so of course the soft top was down. The car arrived to us with its hard top on but that was soon removed.
Your first impressions are how good is the gearbox! With its short throw the gear changes are all precise and very smooth both up and down the box. Of course, this is what you would expect from a new gearbox, but we were still surprised by how well it suits the car.
Given the anticipation and excitement from using the gearbox, it was easy to take the overall drive of the car for granted. The engine is super smooth and incredibly responsive. It just wants to go! It is surprisingly quiet at idle, but when you put your foot down it really comes to life and it has a great exhaust note.
The car is tight on the road with no rattles or squeaks to be heard. It really feels like you are driving a new car. The power steering is also a real delight. It makes manoeuvring this E-type at low speed very easy, yet it still gives you all the feedback you need at higher speeds. At no point does it feel vague. The upgraded brakes, as one would expect, do their job very well and pull the car up quickly and in a straight line when needed.
This 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 Roadster is a fabulous car! It is not a concours car, rather a beautifully restored example that with its sympathetic upgrades make it a more usable classic.
We have had the pleasure to sell many E-Types over the years and this one would have to be one of the best. As noted above, it wont win the concours, but it is guaranteed to turn heads everywhere it goes.
Unfortunately, the current owner has a medical issue and as a result has made the difficult decision to sell. He has enjoyed the journey to restore this car to the level it is at, but is of the view it needs to be used and enjoyed.
The car is therefore reluctantly offered for sale and it is immediately available for a fraction of the cost taken to restore it. Additionally, given the lead time to restore a car these days, this is a unique opportunity for someone to purchase a beautifully restored Jaguar E-type that is ready to go. You can get in it, turn the key and drive away.
Highlights:
- Factory right hand drive example, presented in a stunning and original colour scheme.
- Matching numbers chassis and engine.
- Sympathetically upgraded.
- Warranty on the engine and gearbox.
- Ready to use and enjoy.
Price: $249,950.
Background
The Swallow Sidecar Company was founded in 1922 by William Lyons and William Walmsley. Initially the companys focus was on making sidecars for motorcycles. Over the next few years the company slowly transitioned into coachbuilding. In May 1927 the company announced they would start making 2 seater bodies on Austin and Morris chassis and running gear. During the winter of 1928-1929 the company relocated to Coventry and continued to shift its focus from sidecars to cars. In 1929 they produced a one off car, a sleek open boat tail two seater.
In October 1931 at the Motor Show they produced their first prototype of what was to become the SS 1. It was powered by a six-cylinder side-valve engine of 15hp. The SS 1 was superseded by the SS 2 in 1932.
In 1934 Lyons formed SS Cars Limited to effectively take over the operation from Walmsley. The SS brand was quite successful, though their cars had a reputation for having more show than go.
The first open two seater sports car was introduced in 1935, the SS90. It was powered by a 2½-litre side-valve, six-cylinder engine and only 23 were made.
1935 was also the year the Jaguar name first started appearing on the SS cars.
In 1936 the company introduced one of the greatest pre-war sports cars ever, the SS Jaguar 100 which remained in production until the start of World War II. Like so many British companies production ceased during the war to free up resources to support the war effort.
One of the first things that happened after World War II was the renaming of the company. At a general meeting held on 23rd March 1945 the shareholders agreed to change the name of the company to Jaguar Cars Limited.
In 1948, at the London Motor Show, Jaguar introduced a car which really put them on the map, the legendary Jaguar XK120. The car caused a sensation, which persuaded Jaguar founder and design boss William Lyons to put it into production. The XK120 morphed into the XK140 and ultimately the XK150 and in total, just over 30,000 cars were built over 15 years of production.
In 1961, at the Geneva Motor Show, Jaguar introduced the E-Type, which like the XK120 all those years ago, took the motoring world by storm. The body styling was simply gorgeous and technologically the E-Type was an engineering masterpiece and it set new standards in all areas.
Whilst automotive styling is somewhat subjective, the E-Type is often ranked atop lists of the most beautiful cars and in fact it has been described by Enzo Ferrari as the most beautiful car ever made. And its not just about the looks as the E-Type is often at the top of other lists such as the best sports car ever built or the most significant cars. It is truly a motoring icon.
As a testament to the success of the E-Type, production evolved through three series from 1961 until 1974 during which time circa 70,000 cars were built.

1970 JAGUAR E-TYPE Series 2

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale an award winning 2005 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti.
This car, which is finished in the traditional Ferrari colour scheme of Rosso Corsa (paint code FER 322) with beige leather upholstery, was delivered to its first owner, Thomas Graham Gillespie from Airdrie in Scotland, UK on the 11th March 2005.
It has a full book set, including its service book which documents its service history. In Gillespies ownership the car received its first service on the 1st June 2006. At that time the odometer read 4,235 miles. The service was performed by Ferrari dealer Graypaul in Edinburgh. The next service was performed on 30th April 2007 at 5,896 miles by Graypaul.
Gillespie kept the car until 2007 and then sold it to Sir Anthony Moore from Swadlingcote, which is just south of Nottingham in the north of England.
Subsequent services were completed as follow:
- 3rd September 2008 @ 13,718 miles by Ferrari dealer Graypaul in Nothingham.
- 2nd December 2009 @ 17,425 miles by Ferrari specialists Shiltech Performance cars in Loughborough.
- 11th March 2010 @ 18,294 miles.
Moore sold the car in 2010 to Gregory Newton, an Australian who was residing in the UK at that time. Newton kept the car in the UK for the next 12 months before importing it into Australia. It was brought in as a personal import and there is a copy of the import approval on file dated 15th November 2011.
Soon after arriving in Sydney, the car was complianced and registered in NSW.
The car was then serviced on 5th September 2012 by Quantum Automotive.
The current Sunshine Coast based owner acquired this Ferrari 612 Scaglietti on 31st July 2014. At that time the odometer read 25,211 miles. Prior to purchasing the car he had a pre purchase inspection completed by Ferrari Sydney and they identified a few items which required attention.
Overall the car was in excellent condition and met the requirements of what the current owner was looking for. On the 10th September 2014 the car was taken to independent Ferrari specialist Enzotech in Caboolture, Queensland to have these issues addressed. A decision was also made to address some of the usual wear and tear issues on the car and return to the condition it was in when it left the showroom back in 2005.
Despite the fact the car has only been used sporadically by the current owner, it has been serviced on a regular basis by Enzotech. Routine servicing was completed as follows:
- 08th September 2015 @ 26,249 miles (included a cambelt service)
- 15th September 2017 @ 27,295 miles.
- 22nd April 2018 @ 28,069 miles.
- 17th December 2020 @ 28,800 miles (included a cambelt service)
- 12th September 2021 @ 30,289 miles..
- 24th August 2022 @ 30,665 miles.
- 20th August 2024 @ 31,518 miles.
The current owner is very passionate, pedantic and proud of his cars, including this Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. As a result, this car is presented in excellent condition. He is a Ferrari Club Australia member and he has attended the National Rally twice, entering the Concorso on both occasions. In 2022 the car won a platinum award and more recently in 2025 it won a gold award, narrowly missing out on platinum.
At time of photographing the car, the odometer read 32,335 miles. As is often the case, the photos tell the story. The car is in beautiful condition, particularly considering that it is 20+ years old. The gold award won at the recent Ferrari Club Australia Concorso is a testament to this.
The Rosso Corsa paint is in excellent condition. It is vibrant and has retained a strong depth of colour. When walking around the car we struggled to find any imperfections other than a few very small stone chips on the nose. It is understood that these were picked up on the recent Ferrari rally. With front and rear bumpers integrated into the bodywork, the external trim is minimalistic. The Ferrari badges, side shields, front grill, lights and lenses are all in excellent condition.
The original wheels, which are a real feature on a Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, are in excellent condition with no evidence of any curb rash. They are shod with Pirelli P Zero Rosso tyres, size 245/40ZR19 at the front and 285/4ZR19 at the rear. The front tyres are date stamped 4412 (week 44, 2012) and the rear ones 4712 (week 44, 2012) The tyres are still in a good condition.
The interior presents beautifully and its condition is more consistent with a five year old car, rather than one that is 20+ years old. The upholstery is almost as new and even the leather on the front seats is still in excellent condition. The seats are firm yet supportive and very comfortable. The rear seats present like new and have probably hardly been used if at all.
The cabin is a very luxurious place to be. The seats can be adjusted in so many ways that almost everyone should be able to get very comfortable behind the wheel. Once settled in it is time to start the car. The starting procedure is simple: insert the key into the ignition slot on the steering column and turn the key to start the car. The thumping 5.75 litre V12 engine bursts to life easily with no throttle input needed. It quickly settles into a smooth idle and as one would expect, it sounds amazing with a deep, smooth burble.
You have the option to drive the car in full automatic mode or in semi automatic mode where you use the F1 style paddles to change gears. Regardless of which option you choose, the car is refined and very easy to drive. In fact, it is almost too easy to drive and one has to be super careful to keep the speed in check. Whilst the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a grand tourer first and supercar second, when this car was released, it was one of the fastest four seaters available with a quoted top speed of 320 km/h and capable of sprinting from 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds.
On our test drive the car performed perfectly. With almost unlimited power on tap the engine is incredibly responsive and it will launch the car forward effortlessly with a gentle prod on the accelerator. The car can be driven sedately, however, you just have to unleash it from time to time to enjoy that unmistakable Ferrari soundtrack. The six speed F1 automated manual is smooth up and down the box. The car handles, steers and stops as one would expect, but to be fair to really test that you would want to take it to Fiorano!
What a car . . . the Ferrari 612 Scagliettis performance is incredible and yet it is very easy to drive, extremely comfortable as well as capable of carrying four passengers with room for some luggage in the boot.
Accompanying the car is history file, complete book set in the original leather pouch, the original tool kit and a car cover,
Highlights:
- Presented in the most popular and stunning colour combination.
- Multiple award winner at Ferrari Club Australia
- Full service history with books and tools.
- Just a beautiful motor car.
Price $199,950
Background
Apple, Coca-Cola, McDonalds and Nike are brands recognisable the world over. So is Ferrari and interestingly the iconic Italian luxury sports car manufacturer was named The Worlds Strongest Brand in the 2019 Brand Finance Global 500 Report.
Founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1939 out of Alfa Romeos race division as Auto Avio Costruzioni the company built its first car in 1940. The Second World War halted Ferraris dream, which was finally realised in 1947, when the first car bearing his name, the Ferrari 125 S, was built. From that day on Ferrari race cars dominated the world over, winning race after race and many world championships in Formula One, sports car racing and endurance racing. Ferrari built exclusive sports cars for the road too, but in the early days, this was primarily to fund his motor racing!
The Cavallino Rampate or prancing horse was the symbol chosen by Ferrari and like the golden arches it is recognised by just about every man, woman and child on the planet!
The Ferrari road cars from the 1940s and early to mid-1950s were built in very small numbers and it was not until the introduction of the 250 series cars that production numbers increased. Almost 1,000 Ferrari 250 GTEs were built from 1959 1963. The 250 series also produced some of the most special Ferraris ever built, including the Ferrari 250 LM, 250 SWB, 250 California Spider and of course the 250 GTO. The 250 series cars were superseded by the 275 series cars, the 330 series cars and later the 365 series cars. The nomenclature designated the cubic capacity of each cylinder. So, a Ferrari 330 was powered by a 12-cylinder engine of 3967cc capacity.
The late 1960s and early 1970s were fabulous times for Ferrari. Its flagship 365 GTB/4 Daytona was a resounding success and Enzos big risk the Dino 246 was also selling very well. At that time Ferrari wanted to continue with his tradition of producing high performance Grand Touring cars with a 2+2 configuration and the 365 GTC/4, which was a successor to the 365 GT 2+2 and the 365 GTC, filled that niche.
The early 1970s were a time of innovation and Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati et al. continued to introduce new models in an endeavour to trump the other. The 365 GTC/4 was only in production in 1971 & 1972 and its successor the 365 GT/4 2+2 was first shown in October 1972 at the Paris Motor Show. This car, designed and built by Pininfarina, featured unique styling and whilst the sharp angular lines were very new for Ferrari it did share the characteristic design feature of a swage line dividing the body into an upper and a lower half with the 365 GTB/4 Daytona. Unlike the GTC/4 the GT/4 2+2 could seat four people in relative comfort.
The 365 GT/4 2+2 was superseded by the 400 in 1976 and subsequently the 412 in 1985. Production of the 412 ended in 1989 without a direct successor.
In 1992 Ferrari introduced its next front engined V12 Grand Tourer, the 456, continuing its tradition of blending elegance, performance, and practicality. Designed by Pietro Camardella at Pininfarina, the design took heavy inspiration from Ferraris legendary 365 GTB/4 Daytona. The car was initially launched with a six speed manual gearbox, however, a four speed automatic gearbox was introduced in 1996 and model was designated as 456 GTA. The 456 became one of Ferraris more successful models, with approximately 3,289 cars produced during its 5 years in production.
The 456 was superseded by the 612 Scaglietti in 2004. This 612 was a bigger car, making it more comfortable for four passengers. To keep the weight down the car was built with an all aluminium spaceframe and body. Powered by a 5.7 litre naturally aspirated V12 engine with a quoted power of 397 kw (533 hp) at 7,250 rpm and torque of 588 nm (434 lbft) at 5,250 rpm. The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti was not a sports car, rather a very practical luxurious grand tourer. It was another success story for Ferrari with 3,025 examples produced between 2004 and 2011.

2005 FERRARI 612 SCAGLIETTI

Oldtimer Australia is delighted to offer for sale this freshly restored 1987 BMW M3 E30.
Over the years the BMW M3 E30 has built up quite a reputation and it has become highly sought after by people in the know.
In 2004, Sports Car International named the BMW M3 E30 as number six on their list of Top Sports Cars of the 1980s. In 2007, Automobile Magazine included the BMW M3 E30 in their "5 Greatest Drivers Cars of All Time" category with their list of the 25 Greatest Cars of All Time.
The BMW M3 E30 was so much more than just a high performance BMW 3 Series with a body kit and spoilers. They were different cars mechanically and the only exterior body panels they shared were the bonnet, roof panel and sunroof.
As confirmed by the code AK03 in the VIN number, this particular example was delivered new to the USA.
According to the BMW M3 register this car was delivered new with the following options:
- Electric windscreens at the front (0410)
- AC (0530)
- Cruise control (0540)
- On-board computer II with remote control (0551)
- BMW sound system (0675)
The car was delivered in alpin-weiss (colour code 146) with a black interior (trim code 0203) and that is how the car still presents today.
At some stage it found its way to Japan before coming to Australia. The car was imported into Melbourne in 2005. There is a copy of the import approval on file issued on the 30th March 2005.
The car was sold into Sydney in March 2008 and it is understood that it was essentially parked up until 2022. It was acquired by the current owner in December 2022, who engaged the services of highly respected BMW specialist, Scott Robinson from Modern Classic Motorsport in Capalaba, to restore the car.
Over the next three years this BMW M3 E30 underwent a complete restoration with the exception of the interior. The interior was in such good condition it only required a sympathetic refresh.
The car was completely stripped and sent to Styling Automotive, based in Yeerongpilly on Brisbanes south side to be repainted. The car was completely refurbished mechanically by Modern Classic Motorsport. To say the work was comprehensive would be an understatement!
Once the engine was removed and disassembled, it was clear a full rebuild was required, including machining of the cylinder bores. Everything that needed to be replaced was replaced and in some cases upgraded. The S14B23 engines capacity increased from the standard 2,302cc to 2,341cc. Lots of parts were replaced during the rebuilt.
A summary of the work completed, includes:
- The engine now has: Wossner forged pistons with a compression ratio: 10.92:1, new conrod bearings, new main bearings, Elring bottom end gasket set, Elring VRS top end gasket set, new head bolts, new ARP conrod bolts, new IWIS timing chain, new chain guide rails, new oil pump chain, a rebuilt oil pump, new upgraded chain tensioner, new water pump, new silicone water hose set, new thermostat unit, new water pipe on the side of the block, new welsh plugs, new NGK spark plugs, factory headers ceramic coated, new v belts, new crankshaft speed and position sensors, and new fuel injectors.
- The cylinder head was fully serviced including resurfacing and a multi angle valve job. Throttle body butterflies were stripped, vapor blasted and assembled with new butterfly screws
- The valve cover and inlet plenum were powder coated in the correct black wrinkle finish.
- A new super sprint exhaust system was fitted.
- New BBS wheels were fitted as well as a BMW M3 Evolution style front splitter, lower engine cover and rear spoiler.
- The fuel tank was removed and cleaned.
The list goes on and it is way too long to include in this write up.
The end result is simply STUNNING. Alpine white is the perfect colour for a BMW M3 E30, beautifully highlighting the cars sharp lines and distinctive details. The BMW and M3 badges stand out brilliantly against the crisp white finish.
At the time of photographing the car the odometer read 88,222 miles, however, one could argue that the mileage is irrelevant considering it is a fresh restoration. The car presents today essentially as new.
Walking around the car, you cant help but be impressed. The paintwork is in excellent condition and we were unable to find any imperfections. The black front splitter, rear spoiler section, front grill as well as the black vinyl striping on the front and rear bumpers provide a perfect contrast to the Alpine White finish, enhancing the cars sharp, purposeful look. The badges on the car are all in excellent condition as are all the lights and lenses. All the glass is in a good condition with no cracks or repairs evident.
The car is fitted with a set of new BBS wheels and they are shod with Nankang Sportnex AR 1 tyres, size 225/45/ZR16. The tyres are date stamped 0424 (week 4, 2024). The wheels are in perfect condition.
Inside the cabin, everything appears to be original. When the restoration began, it was clear the interior was in such excellent condition that it deserved to be preserved. It was carefully reconditioned, with no need to replace components or retrim the seats.
As with many German cars of the 1980s, the layout is simple and highly functional. Look closer, however, and youll find some rather cool details, such as the M coloured stitching on the Alcantara steering wheel and handbrake, the M badging on the steering wheel, gear knob, door sills and even within the instrument cluster. Then theres the wonderfully retro, very 80s roof-mounted check control panel, a distinctive touch that adds to the cars period charm.
Opening the bonnet reveals the fully rebuilt engine, proudly displaying the unmistakable BMW M Power logo. The engine bay is exceptionally clean and neatly presented. The same attention to detail is evident in the boot, which houses the spare wheel and a partially complete factory toolkit.
As they say, there is a first for everything, and for us this is the first BMW M3 E30 we have had in our showroom. We were genuinely excited to find out if all the hype is justified.
The short answer is YES!
Getting into the car is easy and the seats are firm, yet comfortable and provide ample support. With multiple adjustment options available, finding the ideal driving position is easy for almost anyone. Starting the car is straight forward . . . you simply insert the key into the ignition and turn it. With a fully rebuilt totally fresh engine it is no surprise it starts easily and then quickly settles into a smooth idle. The sports exhaust produces a crisp, raspy note that immediately hints at the cars performance pedigree. This being a US spec car means the gearbox has the conventional H pattern as where the European spec cars were equipped with a dog leg gearbox.
The BMW M3 E30 was essentially designed as a Group A touring car and it race pedigree is immediately obvious once you get behind the wheel. By todays standards this is not a supercar, but its performance is still impressive and it offers the most exhilarating, responsive, balanced and engaging driving experience.
The engine revs freely and responds instantly to even the slightest input from the throttle, feeling eager and alive throughout the rev range. The harder you go, the better it gets! Equally impressive is the handling. The car feels as though its on rails, cornering with remarkable composure and precision. It reacts immediately to the slightest turn of the steering wheel, keeping you totally connected to the road. The brakes offer excellent pedal feel and strong stopping power, bringing the car to a halt quickly and in a perfectly straight line when required.
The BMW M3 E30 race pedigree and success is unpatrolled. It is now easy to understand why.
At time of photographing this car the restoration was 99.9% complete. There are a few minor details that need to be completed. Eagle eyed BMW M3 E30 experts may notice the seal between the body and the front bumper is missing. This item, along with few others, are on order and will be fitted to the car prior to the new owner taking delivery of the car.
The current owner has enjoyed the journey of the restoration and he has stumbled across another project that he has to have. As a result, he is now reluctantly offering this car for sale.
BMW M3 E30s do not come up for sale very often in Australia and the opportunity to acquire a car like this one which has just been restored by a BMW specialist is like finding a needle in a haystack.
Accompanying the car is some historical documentation, photographs and invoices related to the restoration, a spare wheel and a partially complete toolkit.
Highlights:
- Rare and desirable example of one the most iconic BMWs.
- Beautifully presented example.
- Fabulous original colour scheme.
- Ready to show, use and enjoy
Price $209,950
Background
On 7 March 1916 the Bayerische Flugzeugwerke (BFW) was established. The company was the result of a reorganisation of the Gustav Otto Flugmaschinenfabrik, a company founded by Gustav Otto in Bavaria, Germany, in 1910. The company was one of the aircraft pioneers in the early 20th century. A year later, in 1917, a Bavarian aircraft engine manufacturer by the name of Rapp Motorwerke changed its name into Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH (BMW). That company transferred all its engine production assets to Bayerische Flugzeugwerke in 1922 and that company was then renamed to Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW).
The company survived World War I and started focussing on the production of motorcycle engines, farm equipment, household items and railway brakes. In 1923 BMW produced its first motorcycle, the BMW R23.
In 1928 BMW purchased the Fahrzeug Fabrik Eisenach which built Austin Sevens under license. That is when BMW officially became an automobile manufacturer. The first car BMW sold under its own name was the BMW 3/15 which was basically a rebadged Austin 7. Throughout the 1930s BMW focussed more and more on producing their own cars and expanded its range into sports cars and larger luxury cars.
During World War II the BMW factories were heavily bombed and severely damaged. Motor vehicle production was curtained and BMW has concentrated on building aircraft engines during the War. As a result, after the war the company was prohibited from producing aircraft or motor vehicles. Miraculously the company survived by making pots, pans and bicycles. It began manufacturing motorcycles again in 1948 and cars in 1952.
Its first post war effort was the BMW 501 which was built in a new factory in Munich. The car was reasonably successful and it effectively relaunched BMW. At the time BMW was also building its fabulous little Isetta, but the company was doing it tough financially. In 1955 the BMW 507 made its debut at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York. The 507 was roadster powered by a 3.2 litre V8 engine and was meant to revive the companies sporting image. Instead, the high production cost led the company to the verge of bankruptcy. Only 252 examples were built before production ceased in 1959. As it turns out, it would take BMW nearly 30 years before it would produce another roadster. The company was in serious financial trouble in 1959 and only a large investment from a third party saved the company and prevented a takeover by Daimler-Benz.
It was the launch of the BMW New Class cars in 1962 that proved to be a game changer for the company. Initially these were 4-door compact sedans aimed at the executives. The first one was the BMW 1500 which was first introduced at the September 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show. Other models like the BMW 1800, the successor of the 1500 the BMW 1600 and the BMW 2000 followed soon. In 1965 BMW introduced a coupe versions of the 2000, the 2000C and he 2000CS.
Around the mid 1960s BMW recognised there was a market for a slightly smaller version of their New Class cars. Around the same time they stopped producing the BMW 1600 they introduced the BMW 1600-2 which was a shorter two door model. In 1968 BMW started producing the two door BMW 2002 with its stronger 1,990cc M10 engine.
In 1973 BMW introduced its first turbo charged production car at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the BMW 2002 Turbo. It produced 170hp and had a top speed of 211 km/h.
Only 1,672 were ever built between July 1973 and June 1975, including twelve pre-production cars constructed between July and December of 1973. The BMW 2002 Turbo was only built as left hand drive.
The BMW 02 series was superseded by the BMW 3 series (E21) in 1975. The E21 remained in production till 1982 when it was replaced by the BMW 3 series (E30)
When BMW decided to race the E30 in the  Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) and Group A Touring it was required to built a homologation version of the car to satisfy the regulations. The M3 (E30) was born. It was presented to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1985. Production started in 1986 and the car remained in production till 1991. The M3 (E30) was only ever built as a LHD car.  In total 17,970 cars were built.
An article written by Horatiu Boeriu and published on the January 29, 2026 in BMWBLOG, sums up the BMW M3 E30 perfectly:
E30 M3 is Now 40 Years Old: The Car That Defined BMW M Forever
From homologation special to cultural icon, the E30 M3 defined what BMW M means - and still refuses to slow down four decades later.
The E30 M3 proved that intelligent engineering beats raw power. Its 195 hp naturally aspirated 2.3-liter four-cylinder from a 1,200 kg chassis set the template for every M car that followed.
Dominating the WTCC, DTM, British Touring Car Championship, and 24 Hours of Spa, the E30 M3 was essentially unbeatable. In race trim, it produced up to 360 hp - proving road and race could be one.
Nearly 18,000 road cars sold. Jay Z gifted DJ Khaled one. Kith collaborated on a one-off. Goodwood featured it prominently. The E30 M3 transcended "classic car" to become a genuine cultural artefact.

1987 BMW M3 E30

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

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

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