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1974 Capri 3.0 Ghia Manual. An incredible example with only 18,030 miles covered in 49 years.

1974 Capri 3.0 Ghia Manual. An incredible example with only 18,030 miles covered in 49 years.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

The Capri MK11 made its UK debut in February 1974, succeeding the MK1 after a production run of 5 years. The 3 litre models were sold from launch in both GT and Ghia guise. Ford bought Ghia Design Studio in 1970 and both the MK11 Capri and MK1 Granada were subsequently the first UK models to offer the Ghia designation. The early Capri Ghia models featured Manual transmission with a cost option of Automatic.  

The early cars also featured a single steering column stalk switch, operating the indicators, main beam and horn functions, the wiper and light controls being mounted on the dashboard. Door mirrors were absent until later in 1975 along with the front wing mounted Ghia emblems.  A trained eye will also notice the dual colour Ronal 8 spoke alloys, later cars featuring silver wheels to save production costs.

WFK472N was delivered new on 16th September 1974 by Bristol Street Motors, Worcestershire to its first owner. Finished in Stardust metallic with Cloud Grey Rialto interior with the addition of dealer fitted wing mirrors. We understand that the car was quite an indulgence and the first new car that the owner had bought. Just over three years later, due to ill health, the Capri was sold to its second owner, a friend and neighbour in the village who had admired the car from the day it was delivered. A receipt for the sale dated 17th November 1977 has been safely kept with the vehicle documentation.  The mileage at this time, being less than 5,000 miles, shortly following its first MOT dated 26th September at 4,555 miles.

During the four years that followed a modest 13,322 miles was added, supported by all annual MOT certificates, the last being conducted at 17,877 miles by Bristol Street Motors, dated 27th October 1980. A subsequent change in personal circumstances and the addition of a more practical car consigning the Capri to the start of its long-term slumber. It was carefully garaged, and the last tax disc was purchased 6th March 1981.

For the 21 years that followed, the Capri was safely stored and cared for by the owner’s local garage mechanic, ensuring it was started and moved frequently, despite not being driven on the road. In 2002 a move to Devon left the owner with a dilemma, he had known the local mechanic for 3 decades during which time had taken such great care of the Capri. A decision was made to store the Capri with his mechanic in Worcestershire, where it continued to be looked after and stored safely.

In 2019, after the mechanic’s retirement the Capri was transported to Devon and delivered to Central Garage in Brixham. A relationship of trust had been built over time and the owner had purchased various cars from the garage during his time in Devon. They were tasked to recommission the Capri, to be enjoyed again after such a long time in slumber. In February 2020 the car was completed and an invoice outlining the scope of work sits in the vehicle file.

WFK472N now resides with us and is ready to embark on its next chapter. Finding another early MK11 Capri as original, with such low mileage and in this condition would be an impossible task. It’s hard to imagine that you are looking at a car that is almost half a century old. We stress that every panel is original and free from corrosion, as is the underside with no weld repairs and in remarkable condition. The car is registered as a Historic Vehicle and is tax and MOT exempt, additionally it is ULEZ exempt. A new MOT will be conducted prior to sale.

The car would sit perfectly in any serious car collection. More pictures are available on request.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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1968 Toyota FJ40 Soft Top. Sympathetically restored with subtle modifications.

1968 Toyota FJ40 Soft Top. Sympathetically restored with subtle modifications.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

 

 The third-generation 40 Series Land Cruiser made its market debut in August 1960 and quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most practical and durable 4×4 utility vehicles of its time. It had a production run of 24 years and in petrol form utilised the venerable straight six F engine, available from launch in 3.9 litre displacement and 4.2 from 1975 until production ceased in 1984. The larger bore 2F engine removed one oil ring and forced the oil to travel through the oil filter before the engine. Both OHV engines were simplistic in design, developing high torque at low revs, helping to ensure reliability and longevity. 

This exceptional 1968 example has spent its entire life in Indonesia in the custardy of only three owners.

In 2012 a comprehensive body off and chassis restoration was conducted by the second owner who had kept the car for many years. The car was used sparingly for a further 10 years and upon retiring from driving was sold to an FJ enthusiast who treated the car to various mechanical enhancements, retaining the originality but improving the drive and comfort.

The original F 3.9 engine has been replaced with a later 2F 4.2 engine that was subject to a comprehensive rebuild including new pistons, rings and bearings. It is worth noting that spares for the 2F engine are more readily available and supported in the FJ network. All ancillary items have been carefully rebuilt or renewed and the original three speed manual transmission and 4×4 system retained along with a new clutch and clutch housing. The carburettor has been rebuilt and cooling system overhauled and the exhaust replaced.

Power steering has been fitted along with a front brake disc upgrade using OE Toyota callipers, vacuum assisted brake booster and OEM front wheel bearings. The rear drums are original specification with replacement shoes fitted. The suspension was treated to the desirable Old Man Emu 2.5” lift shock absorbers and upgraded leaf springs.

The interior has been treated to a complete re-trim in tan/orange Italian Nappa Leather consisting of all seat facings, grab handles, gear stick gaiters and sun visors. A Marshall Bluetooth speaker and drinks holder console has been installed and trimmed to contrast.

After approximately 1,000 kilometres of ‘running in’ use, the speedometer has been rebuilt, including upgraded LED lighting and reset, now indicating 125 kilometres.

In summary, this is a very special FJ that turns heads wherever it goes and will be a huge amount of fun to own. Much scarcer than a Series 1 or 2 Landrover and a great deal easier to drive. It can be used in any major UK city without the cost of ULEZ and is both MOT and Road Tax exempt. It’s also assuring to know that the restoration work was conducted over a decade ago and consequently held up beautifully.

 

Fully UK registered and a new MOT will be issued prior to delivery.

 

 

 

 

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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.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

‘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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Cars

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

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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.

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

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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Cars

1998 Honda Civic 1.4i Auto. A well-presented pre-facelift MK6 with a comprehensive history.

1998 Honda Civic 1.4i Auto. A well-presented pre-facelift MK6 with a comprehensive history.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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 sixth-generation Civic was introduced in 1995 and was produced until 2000. It was the last Civic model to feature the front double wishbone suspension set up.

This particular Civic is a pre-facelift model finished in Comet Blue and was delivered new by Crown Honda, Bushey Heath in May 1998.

Despite its very low mileage, the service history is highly comprehensive and the original handbook pack remains along with service book, owner’s manual and a full set of Honda keys. The cambelt, water pump PAS belt and auxiliary belt were replaced less than 600 miles ago in March 2023.

The car drives exceptionally well and the drive train is silky smooth, quite typical of a well maintained Honda.

A great little starter classic or daily driver that’s economical and easy to maintain.

 

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Cars

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.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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. As far as UK registration is concerned, we have all the necessary Nova certification to confirm duties have been paid and would be happy to assist with the first UK registration process for the fortunate new owner

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Cars

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.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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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Cars

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.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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.

Key Facts

VEHICLE OVERVIEW

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.