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1991 MR2 GT T-Bar. Stunning example of an early REV1 and family owned for 29 years.

1991 MR2 GT T-Bar. Stunning example of an early REV1 and family owned for 29 years.
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‘NEW MR2 ARRIVES, Cheaper than a Lotus Elan, Faster than a Mazda MX5 and as much fun as a Ferrari’

Harkening back over 33 years, this was the front page of the Autocar & Motor, dated 19th April, 1990. The magazine would have set you back £1.10 and the T-Bar version of the MR2 almost £17000. How times have changed.

This particular car was sold new in to its first owner on the 1st August 1991 by Ashley’s Toyota in Southport. Registered on the owner’s DVLA select plate J7WMW and finished in Super White 2 with Black Leather interior and optional dealer fitted mud-flaps and additional Toyota CD player, complementing the factory fitted radio cassette.

The car was a retirement treat, garaged and sparingly used in fair weather and maintained initially by Toyota and thereafter by a local mechanic. Some years later after ill health the car was passed on to the owner’s wife who kept the car until 2012 at which point the mileage being under 20,000 miles. Thereafter it was looked after by a family member who covered a mere 3,000 miles during the eight years that followed.

In 2020 the car was sold to a car enthusiast who kept the car regularly maintained, including replacing the cambelt and water pump and enjoyed a further 9,000 miles of careful dry use in the three years of ownership.

Today, this fabulous example has covered only 32,481 miles and has recently completed a 430 mile road trip, driving flawlessly and averaging an impressive 42MPG. It’s the best example we’ve driven and its condition is quite special.

As you will see from the MOT history the car has been properly maintained in its 32 years of ownership and is free from any of the corrosion issues that can affect the MK2 models, in particular the sills that are venerable. It still retains its supplying dealer livery, number plates, rear window sticker and key fobs. The glass T-Tops and rubber seals are perfect and include the original sunshades and sunshade storage bags. All the original books and book pack folder remain along with a Toyota Sports sales catalogue featuring the MR2 range.

This is an absolute dream for any JDM collector, either to be kept in careful storage or used in fair weather for many years to come.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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1973 Mercedes 450SLC. A quite remarkable and unique example, once owned by Peter Sellers

1973 Mercedes 450SLC. A quite remarkable and unique example, once owned by Peter Sellers
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With over 60 films to his name as well as a solid position within the heart of the nation, Peter Sellers also has another side, his love of cars. Before he moved over to a mouth-watering selection of Ferraris, Sellers had more modest tastes, these included a number of Minis as well as one particular Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC.

This 1973 450 SLC finished in Astral Silver was originally registered to Blake Edwards, director of the highly acclaimed Pink Panther films, before it was passed on to Sellers. Edwards bought the car for his wife Julie Andrews and they would drive it between the UK and Spain where the couple had a holiday home. The car was repatriated to the UK in 1975 when Sellers took custody.

More recently, in 2016 the car underwent a complete five year nut and bolt mechanical and body restoration under the supervision of Ian Berg, himself a film producer and car enthusiast. It is well documented that he undertook the full restoration of Inspector Morse’s Jaguar MK2 and the Lynx Eventer, once owned by the Gucci family, Berg is no stranger to celebrity car reincarnations.

“I’m a film producer and authenticity is really important to me, to put it back in a condition that’s as new. As you look at that piece of history, if you then preserve that and bring it up to the standard where it’s going to survive, then you’re giving it a whole new life,” he quoted.

The engine was rebuilt, the electronics renewed and the suspension and brakes refurbished. “It will do 120mph on the autobahn. It’s like driving a modern car, but with all the style of a classic. These cars are very rare now, and I think that this is probably the best example in the world now”

Watley Classics is very proud to own and present such an amazing piece of history, the car has been in our custardy for two years and weather permitting gets used as often as possible. It’s a delight to drive and receives admiring comments wherever it goes. This really is a unique proposition for its next owner.

The car will be issued with a new MOT prior to conclusion of sale.

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1973 Mercedes 450SLC. A quite remarkable and unique example, once owned by Peter Sellers
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1977 Vespa 150 Sprint Veloce. A delightful matching numbers example with a full restoration conducted in 2019.

1977 Vespa 150 Sprint Veloce. A delightful matching numbers example with a full restoration conducted in 2019.
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The scooter came in two different versions. The earlier models, called the Vespa Sprint, were made until 1974. Later models, called the Vespa Sprint Veloce, were manufactured from 1969 to 1979. The significant update with the Sprint Veloce was in the engine, the design being altered from the old two port design with the addition of a third transfer port on the top end.

This delightful scooter has spent its entire life in Indonesia and a full body and mechanical restoration was conducted in 2019 by its current owner. The paintwork is a stunning livery of Peacock Blue, the frame/body and engine are original and matching, supported by the original Indonesian registration documentation. The original engine was fully rebuilt, carburettor replaced along with ignition coil and a full overhaul of the braking system. We should also mention that the milometer reading was reset to zero at the time of the restoration and the scooter has travelled 841kms in fair-weather conditions since. 

We are selling the scooter on behalf of the owner who we have known for some time. 

The scooter has now been UK registered and will be supplied with number plates (not pictured) ready to be enjoyed by its next fortunate owner.

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1957 MG Magnette ZB. A most endearing example in great mechanical order. Original registration number.

1957 MG Magnette ZB. A most endearing example in great mechanical order. Original registration number.
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In 1953 the ZA Magnette was unveiled at the Earls Court Motor Show featuring a perky 60BHP 1.5 litre engine, stiff unitary construction, telescopic dampers and rack and pinion steering. In 1955, engine power was increased to 68BHP with the fitting of twin 1.5 SU carburettors. The revamped ZB followed in the autumn of 1956. In total over 40,000 variants were made between 1953 and 1958, when it was replaced by the Austin Cambridge-derived range.

SHO327 is being sold on behalf of a family member who’s father first bought the car in the 1960’s to tow the family caravan, there are original photographs taken at the time which have been kept in the vehicle file.

Originally finished in Steel Blue, the car has been repainted some time ago in the Varitone combination of Steel and Mineral Blue. Additionally, the interior has been treated to re-trimmed seats and a quality replacement set of contrasting carpets.

Mechanically, the car has had both engine and gearbox refurbishment in the last 10 years and subsequently starts on the button, performs eagerly and runs very smoothly through the gears. A stainless exhaust system has also been fitted.

In 2017 Classic Car Weekly featured the car in their Chasing Cars article and concluded that it was one of the best ZB’s they had sampled, it was on sale at this time through a Classic Car specialist in Lancashire. The original article has been kept in the vehicle file.

Despite the car being MOT exempt, we will conduct an MOT upon concluding a sale. SHO327 is the original registration number issued in 1957 and remains with the car.

 

 

 

 

 

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1980 Rolls Royce Shadow II. Highly presentable and in great mechanical health with a large history file

1980 Rolls Royce Shadow II. Highly presentable and in great mechanical health with a large history file
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The Silver Shadow II replaced its predecessor the Shadow I in 1977 after a production run of 12 years. There were several improvements, most notably rack and pinion steering and front suspension modifications, both improving handling markedly.

Externally, the bumpers were changed from chrome to alloy and rubber which appeared on the very last Shadows during 1976.

The Shadow II had a relatively short life with production ending in 1980 and being replaced by the Silver Spirit.

This particular Shadow II, a late example finished in Caribbean Blue with Beige Interior was first registered 1st August 1980 and delivered 6th August by Wadham Stringer in Southampton. The original invoice is held in the file, illustrating the purchase price of £36329.48, this included an internally adjustable passenger side door mirror and Whitewall tyres. Interestingly, 23 gallons of fuel was charged on the invoice at £1.15 per gallon – those were the days!

The history is comprehensive with 25 stamp entries in the original service book and in the last 7 years further evidence of nearly £12000 being spent on corrective maintenance. Needless to say the car is a joy to drive with true magic carpet handling. It was taken on a road trip in April to Essen and returned an average consumption of 18MPG, carrying four passengers and luggage. It didn’t skip a beat.

The underside is in great shape and the body work carries some patina but is in very presentable condition.

The car will be supplied with 12 months MOT upon sale, although now exempt. It’s registered as an Historic Vehicle and is tax and ULEZ exempt. The current registration mark RTS101 is not included in the sale.

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1990 VW Golf GTI 16V. Stunning unrestored example. Original owner for over 27 years. A collectors dream.

1990 VW Golf GTI 16V. Stunning unrestored example. Original owner for over 27 years. A collectors dream.
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Debuting in 1984, the second generation replaced the original after a 10 year production run. Styled in-house the car was both larger and heavier than its predecessor. The 8V GTI model was available from launch and the 16V followed a little more than 2 years later. In 1989, both GTI models received the ‘big bumper’ treatment and power steering became standard on the 16V model.

In 1992, the second generation Golf was replaced by the MK3 and the 16V model was absent until 1995.

Delivered new in October 1990 by St. Martins Garage in Guernsey, Channel Islands to its first owner, a mature 60 year old gentleman who kept the car for 27 years before retiring from driving and selling the car to a Jersey based car collector.  

The GTI was specified in Atlas Grey and features the BBS Estoril Alloy wheels which were fitted in place of the RA design for a limited time due to a factory shortage of the RA wheel. The day after taking delivery the car was shipped to and registered in Jersey where it remained for 33 years.

The history of the car is impressive to say the least, the original invoice sits in the file and details such as photocopies of cheques paid for routine maintenance are evident. Clearly the car has been loved from day one, the underside is quite remarkable with the absence of surface corrosion from the underside including all suspension components, testimony to the Jersey roads being salt free during the harsher winter months and garaged all its life.

The car has just recently passed its first UK MOT without any advisories and we have fully serviced including replacing the fuel pump housing with a custom made alloy component.  

Finding another example with such provenance would be an almost impossible task and the car is now ready to be enjoyed by its next fortunate owner.

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1983 Honda Civic 5G 1.3. An outstanding one owner example of a super rare MK2 manual model.

1983 Honda Civic 5G 1.3. An outstanding one owner example of a super rare MK2 manual model.
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The original Honda Civic was launched over 50 years ago and is one of the best-selling cars worldwide, with over 27 million variants sold.

The second-generation Civic was introduced in 1979, being larger and more angular than its predecessor with increased engine power. Fuel economy was vastly improved with the new CVCC designed engines introducing learn-burn swirl technology. Three transmission options were offered, a 4 speed manual on base models, 5 speed and a semi-automatic, referred to as the Hondamatic.   

Delivered new by The Honda Car Centre, Bexhill-on-Sea in August 1983, to its first and only owner, finished in Avignon Blue Metallic with Blue interior trim. The car was maintained by the supplying dealer and afterwards by a Honda Technician who retired from the dealership but retained a relationship with the owner and a good understanding of the car. 

The car is so utterly original and corrosion free, having been undersealed from new. An absolute pleasure to drive and still feels tight with no squeaks or rattles.

We have conducted a cambelt change, replaced the exhaust system and radiator and the current MOT which is advisory free is valid until 25th May, 2024.

An unrepeatable example, being one of only six cars remaining in the UK and a great addition to any JDM collection. 

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1990 BMW 320i Convertible manual. Superbly original example, having being cherished from new.

1990 BMW 320i Convertible manual. Superbly original example, having being cherished from new.
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Debuting in 1982, the BMW E30 succeeded the E21 after a production run of eight years. The E30 introduced a four-door model, estate and full convertible variant during its 12-year life span and captured the appeal of a broad range of customers who wanted a sports orientated car and passenger car in one. The slogan “The Ultimate Driving Machine” was quite fitting for this second generation 3 series, offering crisp handling and driver focused ergonomics.

 This particular 320i Convertible was manufactured 22/6/90 and built to the following specification:

  • ABS
  • BMW factory Alarm
  • BMW 15” Light alloys wheels
  • Front Fog Lights
  • Rear Headrests
  • Sports Leather Steering Wheel
  • Thermal Insulated Green Tinted Glass.

The car was delivered to its first owner 1st August 1990 by B.D Amos BMW in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Finished in Alpine White 11 with Anthracite Uberkaro Check interior. Dealer fitted options included a rear boot spoiler, carpet mats and an Alpine Audio unit.

The car has a very comprehensive service record and has clearly been loved all its life, the last owner of ten years, keeping the car garaged amongst a collection of various classic cars and used only in fair weather with occasional trips to local classic car shows.

It retains its original black fabric hood, still being tight albeit with some age related wear. The dashboard is completely original and void of any cracks and the instrumentation and general trim are in great condition.

We have recently conducted a service including a cambelt and the car sports five green service lights, the Advisory free MOT is valid until 19th April, 2024.

 

 

 

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1971 Triumph Spitfire MK4 1300, Last owner for 29 years and subject to a comprehensive rebuild.

1971 Triumph Spitfire MK4 1300, Last owner for 29 years and subject to a comprehensive rebuild.
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In November 1970, Triumph introduced the Mark IV Spitfire which was a major revision of the MK3. The bodywork was redesigned by Giovanni Michelotti and among the changes the weld line on the top of the front wings was eliminated along with the chrome finisher strips that covered them. A restyle of the rear end bought the styling in line with its stablemates, the Triumph Stag and the restyled Triumph 2000.

The instrumentation was moved from the centre of the dashboard to being directly in front of the driver. Many features that had previously been optional extras became standard fittings on the MKIV Spitfires. Additionally, the gearbox finally got synchromesh for first gear too. 

In December 1974, the MKIV was replaced with the Spitfire 1500, dropping the MKIV designation. 

This unique Spitfire was bought by its last owner in September 1994 and used as his daily driver for a few years then subsequently parked in his garage. Whilst his business flourished and being a huge car enthusiast he added many other cars to his stable and the Spitfire remained unused but certainly not forgotten. In 2003, a decision was made to treat the Spitfire to a complete nut and bolt restoration, changing the original white coachwork to Sapphire Blue and various performance upgrades including fitting a Dolomite 1300HC engine with a Kent Fast Road Cam, competition gearbox with overdrive, competition clutch and lightened flywheel. Cooling upgraded, fitting an enlarged GT6 radiator. The suspension renewed including the fitment of Spax adjustable coilovers, brakes improved with braided lines. The interior was completely overhauled including new seat covers, dash top, carpets and door cards, a mohair hood completed the improvements. In total, over £17000 was spent to create this special car with barely 1200 miles being covered since the rebuild.

An extensive history file is supplied with the car and whilst being MOT exempt, we will conduct a new MOT. It is both Tax and ULEZ exempt.  

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1961 Facel Vega HK500. Highly original car ready for straightforward restoration or preservation.

1961 Facel Vega HK500. Highly original car ready for straightforward restoration or preservation.
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The Facel Vega marque was born in 1954, the brainchild of French industrialist and designer Jean Daninos. Launched in 1958 the HK500 was the most powerful Facel yet, initially fitted with a 5.9-litre Chrysler V8 that was shortly superseded by the larger 6.3-litre unit producing a huge 360bhp and 425 lbs-ft of torque.

Styled by Daninos, engineered by Jacques Brasseur and with a chassis developed by Lance Macklin of HWM racing fame, the HK500 went as well as it looked with a fit and finish that was second to none. Rust-resistant stainless steel was used for brightwork, while a lavish passenger cabin was trimmed in the finest leathers with a fabulous aircraft-like dashboard constructed in stainless steel and hand finished in a wood grain effect.

The advertising slogan for the Facel Vega HK500 summed it up succinctly, “For the Few Who Own the Finest”. The few included Pablo Picasso, Ringo Starr (MK11) Tony Curtis, Ava Gardner, Joan Fontaine and Maurice Trintignant. 

Tested by Motor magazine, the car topped out at 145mph, hit 60mph in 8.4 seconds and ran the quarter mile in 16.3 seconds. Stirling Moss spurned air travel in favour of driving his HK500 from race to race. Costing more than a Mercedes Gullwing and three times as rare, the HK500 exuded opulent exclusivity from every stunningly handsome angle.

This highly original and unrestored example was produced in 1961, and subsequently shipped to its first owner in New York. Originally finished in Ivory White with Red leather interior. The car was kept in the US until 1990 when acquired by a British enthusiast from a dealer in Massachusetts. Prior to the point of sale the HK500 had been repainted in Silver. A pre-sale report dated 1990 is held in the vehicle file.

It has resided in the UK for almost 33 years, the first UK owner keeping the car for 25 years, in which time a total mileage of only 970 miles being covered.

The car will need mechanically recommissioning and was last run in 2017. The paintwork is tired and the rear lower quarter panels will require some minor fabrication. Structurally, the car is in great shape with no welding having been conducted or being required to the underside or chassis. All bright-work is complete and generally in very good shape.

The red leather interior is totally complete, although showing signs of wear, commensurate with age. The woven wicker rear speaker grilles are unspoilt. The interior bright-work, gauges and very cool mid 70’s Pioneer 8-Track are all in excellent order. There are some cracks to the steering wheel rim which could be easily repaired if desired and the cigar lighter is missing.

The original tool kit is complete asides one spare bulb and the factory jack remains in place too.

With just under 75,000 miles recorded, this stylish Grand Routier should prove to be a straightforward restoration or preservation project for the discerning collector.

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