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1977 Toyota FJ40 4.2 Soft Top. Just beautiful and featuring some desirable upgrades.

1977 Toyota FJ40 4.2 Soft Top. Just beautiful and featuring some desirable upgrades.
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1977 Toyota FJ40 4.2 Soft Top. Beautiful eye-catching example with desirable upgrades. A true work of art and joy to own.   

The Toyota FJ model began life in 1950 as a Military vehicle before evolving into a luxury power train vehicle. In 1954 Toyota renamed the model “Land Cruiser” and Global sales commenced.

Watley Classics proudly presents a simply stunning 1977 example of the iconic Soft Top version. Featuring the upgraded venerable 2F 6-cylinder 4.2 engine with sought after options of power steering, four speed gearbox, front disc brakes and Old Man Emu shock absorbers.  AC and electric winch are additionally featured.

In 2023 a comprehensive restoration was undertaken by a well-seasoned Land Cruiser restorer, conducted to an exceptionally high standard. During the process, we chose the vibrant and in-period exterior colour of Mustard (532) further enhanced the interior, consisting of: Hazelnut Italian soft Nappa leather seat facings, sun visors, and gear stick gaiters, additionally, the carpets were hand-made in beige wool with Hazelnut edging and additional sound deadening backings. A new light beige soft top also being fitted. 

There is no doubting the appeal of this FJ, it’s an absolute head turner and has WOW factor in abundance. It just makes you smile every time you look at it. A work of art and conversation piece wherever you go, be it popping to the local shops or a Classic Car meeting. Other benefits are rarity, ULEZ and Road Tax exemption due to its Historic Vehicle registration status.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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1974 Ford Escort AVO RS 2000. Sublime in Modena Green. A beautifully presented example.

1974 Ford Escort AVO RS 2000. Sublime in Modena Green. A beautifully presented example.
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The Escort RS2000 was the last car to be introduced to Ford’s Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) range in June of 1973 and dovetailed nicely with its performance almost comparable to the more complex RS1600, but with the reliability and ease of maintenance of the Mexico.

The car used the same Type 49 body shell as the Mexico and RS1600, however there was a new engine in use at Ford, the 2-litre overhead cam, 100bhp, Pinto design. Ford then had the major problem of persuading the, less than slender, Pinto engine to fit into the engine bay, which was something it had never been designed to do. The only way of achieving this was by discarding the engine-driven cooling fan and replacing it with a thermostatically controlled Kenlowe unit.

Colours available were, Diamond White, Daytona Yellow, Olympic Blue, Sebring Red, Stardust and Modena Green.

This particular example was first built in November 1973 and first registered 20th March, 1974, finished in striking and now rarely seen Modena Green, complimented with dark green decals.

An older comprehensive restoration is clearly evident, accompanied by documentation confirming a reconditioned engine in 2002, Five RS Alloys with new Pirelli Cinturato 175/70 VR13 CN36 tyres, reinforcing the car’s attention to correct and exacting detail, it also comes complete with a period correct jack and tool sack. Electronic ignition is also fitted. An in-period Webasto roll back sunroof features, making the journey down to Le-Mans on the wonderful French ‘D’ roads an absolute joy.

The interior presents beautifully and is complimented by wood veneer dash facings. The current owner, a well-seasoned  RS enthusiast has had custody since December 2020, owning many RS models over the last number of years and in his opinion, this particular example drives without exception.  

The advisory free MOT is valid until 21st June 2027.  

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1955 Austin-Healey. One owner for 73 years. Exceptional car and provenance.

1955 Austin-Healey. One owner for 73 years. Exceptional car and provenance.
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The first of the big Healey’s -the Austin Healey BN1, also known as the Healey 100-4 made its first public debut at the Earls Court Motorshow in October 1952. As expected, it was enthusiastically received. Developed by Donald Healey and produced at Warwick and Longbridge from 1953 until 1955 alongside the Austin A90. Adopting the venerable 2660cc A90 straight 4. The “100” was named by Healey for the car’s ability to reach 100 mph . A BN1 tested by The Motor magazine in 1953 recorded a top speed of 106 mph accelerating from 0–60 mph in 11.2 seconds.

This stunning one owner example was ordered from the owner’s local  dealer, Hankins in Alresford, Hampshire  who brokered the sale for Carey and Lambert, the Southampton main Austin Agency. Delivery took place on the 29th May 1955. The car was first registered at Winchester Castle and all stamps pertaining to the log book issuance and annual road tax are recorded in the original buff logbook.

A RHD Australian market built car, production dated 21st February, 1955. Finished in Carmine Red with black interior, options included a laminated windscreen and delete heater. A Smiths heater was subsequently fitted by Carey and Lambert. 

The car was used daily until 1963 and taxed up until 1966, when replaced by a more practical and comfortable Saloon car.  

The Healey was subsequently parked in a tractor shed on the owner’s estate.

For a further 25 years, the car stood, unused and forgotten until a car enthusiast employee suggested the owner looked at having the car restored to its former glory. A Heritage Certificate was obtained and plans made with a restorer based in Dorchester, located close by to one of the owners businesses in Dorset, they were highly recommended on the basis they had extensive coachbuilding experience, handed down the generations for decades. The company being Edward Channon & Sons, established in 1903 and builders of one of the first British made self-starting cars. 

The restoration started on 29th August 1989 and almost 3 years later, completed with the car’s first required MOT conducted in May 1989 at 74,712 miles.

It is worth noting that the restoration was very thorough, covering both body and mechanical aspects to an extremely high standard.

There is a vast file containing correspondence between the two parties. Both eloquent and fascinating to read. Invoices have been safely kept and in today’s value would amount to well over £65,000. 

This car has been an absolute pleasure to recommission, more of a light restoration and refresh, testimony to the exacting standards of Channon & Sons work.

Finding an example with this degree of provenance would not be an easy task and we have been very careful to ensure the car can be enjoyed by its next fortunate owner for many years to come.

 

 

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1994 Toyota Landcruiser Type 70 SWB. 3.0 Turbo Diesel Auto. Rare, desirable and analogue 4×4

1994 Toyota Landcruiser Type 70 SWB. 3.0 Turbo Diesel Auto. Rare, desirable and analogue 4×4
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1994 Toyota Landcruiser Type 70 SWB. 3.0 Turbo Diesel Auto

Imported directly from Japan in November 2025, we are offering  on behalf of a long standing client, a particularly nice example of the iconic Type 70 Landcruiser.

A desirable SWB version, badged Prado, finished in Emerald Pearl and rare combination of the sought after 3.0 Turbo Diesel coupled to Automatic transmission. Factory fitted AC is also featured. Polished alloys, side steps, power windows and central locking also feature.

As the saying goes, there is beauty in simplicity of design and the off-road capability of this generation model is unquestioned, however, equally, it’s comfortable as a day-to-day driver and particularly in SWB guise, an easy size to live with. Bags of character and something very different.

It’s straight forward and analogue, uncomplicated, easy to drive and maintain. Cooler than today’s somewhat bland offerings and in our view, better made.

We have fully checked over in our dedicated in-house workshop and were particularly taken by the structural integrity/underside condition, testimony to Japan not salting their roads and their strict annual vehicle checks. You will not find a UK example to this standard, most having extensive welding repairs conducted over the years, especially on a now 32-year-old example.

 

 

 

 

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1966 Triumph Spitfire MK11. Rare Factory Overdrive, one owner since 1976, utterly charming.

1966 Triumph Spitfire MK11. Rare Factory Overdrive, one owner since 1976, utterly charming.
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1966 Triumph Spitfire 4 MK11, desirable factory Overdrive and wire wheels, rare and correct factory supplied hardtop, one owner since 1976, utterly charming.

The original Triumph Spitfire Four MK1 was introduced at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1962, styled by Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti and manufactured at the Standard-Triumph Canley works, it was developed on a shortened variant of the Triumph Herald saloon’s chassis, the Spitfire shared the Herald’s running gear and Standard SC engine. The design used body-on-frame construction, augmented by structural components within the bodywork and rear trailing arms attached to the body rather than the chassis.
In March 1965 the Spitfire Mark II launched with a retuned engine, featuring a revised camshaft profile, water-heated intake manifold, and tubular exhaust manifold, increasing power from the MK1 63 bhp to 67 bhp (50 kW) at 6, 000 rpm. Exterior trim featured a new grille and badges, and the interior consisted of revised seats and carpets replacing the original moulded rubber floor mats featured in the MK1.

This particular MK11, a home market car was built 18th May, 1966, finished in resplendent and now rare Royal Blue. a very dark shade of blue which in darker light can be mistaken as black.

Dispatched on 2nd June 1966 to the supplying dealer, The Chequered Flag Ltd in Chiswick, London.

Factory fitted options included:
• Overdrive
• Wire wheels
• Heater
• Sunvisor
• Laminated windscreen

It is understood that an original factory built body-coloured steel hardtop was subsequently supplied and fitted by the Chequered Flag.

A week later on the 8th June, 1966, the Spitfire was registered to its first owner.

On the 27th March 1976 the Spitfire was supplied by Donald Allen Auto’s in Doddington, Cambs to its second and last owner, a 21st Birthday present and celebration of finally qualiifying to be an auto mechanic. The mileage reading according to the sales order being 67, 100 miles.

The car was in regular daily use until the late 1980’s when grandchildren arrived and subsequently replaced by a more practical and comfortable daily driver. Throughout the entire 50 years of ownership the car was routinely maintained and taken great care of. In early 2000 the car was treated to a complete, professional refresh respray. Importantly, no extensive restorative work was conducted, testimony to how well the car was looked after over all those years. As a result the shut lines and panel fit are excellent, rare on any Spitfire, let alone a 60 year old example.

Within the last 5 years, the overdrive has been rebuilt, wire wheel splines overhauled, soft top replaced and seats professionally recovered, supplied by Newton Commercial.

The steel hard top is removable and can be placed safely on the stand supplied. The hardtop headlining is in very good condition with no flaws to report. It is worth noting that being an original factory hardtop, its constructed in steel and not composite unlike some others for sale.

This really is a special example with great provenance, low and long term ownership, 50 years – that’s really quite unique, especially at this price point. A difficult car to replace and an utter joy to own. Great for a warm summer evening’s drive in the countryside. Easy and affordable to maintain with parts being readily supported without breaking the bank.

 
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2005 Audi TT Quattro Sport. Beautifully presented in Misano Red with impressive history.

2005 Audi TT Quattro Sport. Beautifully presented in Misano Red with impressive history.
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Audi’s first generation of the TT coupé became a controversial car. Applauded as a Frankfurt Show concept and showcased to the UK dealer network in 1995 by the then MD of Audi UK Len Hunt, it progressed rapidly into 1998 production, remarkably intact from its original concept design. Assembled in Gyor, Audi’s Hungarian production facility.

Possibly it was manufactured a little too rapidly, because there were some speedy autobahn accidents for the early models and a recall was quickly rolled out, involving the fitting of the rear boot lid spoiler.

In 2005 Audi released the Quattro Sport run-out edition. Numbers were low with 800 cars being allocated to UK dealers. Power from the award winning BAM engine was upgraded to 240BHP from the standard 225BHP.

The Sport offered a stronger identity, offering the Recaro Pole-position seats, deletion of the rear seat, parcel shelf and spare wheel, helping to reduce body weight by over 70Kg. Additionally interior touches consisted of an Alcantara steering wheel and suede style handbrake and gear knob trims.

The body was stiffened with braces featuring both front and rear. The battery was also relocated to the boot area.

Externally, the car sat on unique 15 spoke 18” alloy wheels with discreet eyebrow wheel arch extension spats, suspension was tweaked, sitting lower and the rear exhaust tips were finished in Matte black.

This stunning Misano Red Sport was first supplied in September 2005. The service history is comprehensive with 14 stamps from both Audi and Specialist service points. Average intervals being just over 6,800 miles.

In April 2024 at the car was thoroughly inspected by its current fastidious owner and the following work was conducted.

  • Cambelt, water pump and auxiliary belt replaced
  • Coolant changed
  • Cam cover gasket replaced
  • Front and rear brake discs and pads replaced
  • Front brake callipers replaced
  • Brake fluid changed
  • Rear suspension bushes changed

A full MOT will be conducted before delivery and should you need to check the MOT history, the car is currently registered on EFB893. The car is sold without the number plate.

Two keys, a full driver’s book pack and associated invoices are supplied with the car.

 

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2009 Citroen C6 2.7HDI Exclusive, featuring the desirable Lounge pack. Excellent history file.

2009 Citroen C6 2.7HDI Exclusive, featuring the desirable Lounge pack. Excellent history file.
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2009 Citroen C6 2. 7HDI Exclusive, featuring the desirable Lounge pack. Documentation supporting comprehensive maintenance from new.

The Citroen C6 Lignage concept was first shown at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show, a year before the XM production ended.

Six years later, the C6 went into production, albeit a somewhat watered down version of the Lignage concept yet retaining the long front overhang, elongated headlights, fastback rear and concave CX inspired rear window. The look contributing this large saloon to resemble a hatch back.

The softness of the C6’s chassis settings were deliberate opposition to the chunky Germanic norm of the time, and Citroen’s marketing team made much of the C6’s more cerebral appeal over the obvious Teutonic alternatives.

This was a car we were told was more likely to be chosen by a film director than a finance director, one that forward thinking creatives would be forming queues for.

The reality was the C6 struggled to be chosen by anybody. Citroen sent it into battle wearing a price tag determined more by corporate pride than market reality. One could say it was their Volkswagen Phaeton moment.

The range-topping Exclusive HDI cost £38, 000 and could be pushed to £40, 000 with the Lounge pack that brought power operated rear seats. That might not sound like much in these heavily inflated times, but in 2005 it meant the C6 was nearly twice as expensive as the priciest C5, and cost more than an un-optioned BMW 530d or Mercedes E320 CDI.

This was all during Citroen’s era of chasing market share and discounts across the range were generous with the exception of the C6, a small discount in some cases offered to protect fragile residual values.

Sales were minimal in the UK. Just 350 cars being registered in 2007, the C6’s best year, and a little over 950 cars came here through its entire lifespan. A Citroen executive later admitted the company shouldn’t have bothered with right-hand drive. Demand wasn’t much stronger in the rest of the world; the C6’s total production of just over 23, 000 units representing about a tenth of BMW’s annual 5-Series volume at the time.

So hats off to those brave few who took the plunge and bought one of these special C6s when they were new. In fact, in the UK, despite it being on sale from 2005 to 2012, so few were sold it’s become something of a rarity and technically now a collector’s car.

This Deep Red 2. 7HDI Exclusive was first registered as a Citroen Management car (many were) in September 2009. Being an Exclusive model it features Vitelli leather, finished in Mistral.

The Mukonto wood trim extends from the dashboard to the centre console and half-moon door bins. Electric front seats feature driver’s memory and seat heating for both front and rear occupants. Fans of in-car audio entertainment will certainly approve of the JBL sound system that sounds simply sublime.

The Lounge pack also features, offering individual reclining TGV comfort for the rear passengers.

The car has been comprehensively maintained throughout its 77, 400 miles with average servicing intervals of just over 7, 000 miles and drives without exception.

2 remote keys feature, a full driver’s book pack, original sales brochure, fully stamped service book and importantly many invoices relating to meticulous corrective maintenance.

 

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2004 BMW 3. 0i Roadster. Rare Merlot Red with only 29, 280 miles and cherished all its life. Magnificent.

2004 BMW 3. 0i Roadster. Rare Merlot Red with only 29, 280 miles and cherished all its life. Magnificent.
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The BMW Z series story dates back to 1988 where the original low volume Z1 model made its debut. Styling was cutting edge with GRP construction, innovative sliding doors that dropped into the deep sill sections and underpinnings from the 325i E30. The model had a short production run of 2 years and 8,000 units, and was only available in LHD.

In 1995, BMW launched the Z3, a huge commercial success for the brand, retaining the E30 underpinnings with production running for 7 years and spawning a Coupe version towards the end of its production life.

2002 saw the launch of the Z4 which adopted the then current E46 underpinnings and from launch was available with the much acclaimed M54 2.5 and 3.0 straight six normally aspirated engines. Power for the 3.0 litre being 231BHP.

This exceptional 3.0Si model in rarely seen Merlot Red was supplied new to its first owner by Westerley BMW in Exeter in May 2004, and was optioned as follows:

  • Black Oregon Leather interior with heated seats
  • Electric seats with driver’s side memory
  • 18” Composite Star spoke alloys
  • Sycamore Interior Wood Trim
  • Professional Navigation System
  • Professional Carver Hi-Fi System
  • CD Changer
  • Wind defector
  • Cruise Control
  • M-Tech Suspension (Standard on 3.0 litre models)
  • Dealer fitted rear Spoiler

The total cost being £35,803

Almost 2 years later in March 2006, the second owner took delivery from Westerley as an Approved Used Car, the mileage being only 3,788 miles. 

Today, the car has covered a modest 29,250 miles and the utmost care taken over the last 19 years is immediately evident on close inspection. Average service intervals are a  credible 1964 miles. The car has always been garaged and presents beautifully as a result. The underside is quite incredible and indicative of its fair weather use. 

It really is as good as any 5 year old car, let alone a 21 year old and has a great analogue feel with a little tech thrown in enhancing its driving appeal. The car drives without exception and is an easy sports car to live with, being comfortable with uncompromised access.  

In July 2025, a full service was conducted at 28, 850 miles, a complete set of Brembo grooved and drilled discs were also fitted. Stopping power is impressive to say the least.

A full driver’s book pack, sales brochure, navigation CD and 3 keys are provided.

 

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1972 Ford Escort 1300L 4dr. Quite a time warp example, woken after many years in hibernation.

1972 Ford Escort 1300L 4dr. Quite a time warp example, woken after many years in hibernation.
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By the mid-1960s, Ford’s trusty old Anglia model was looking rather dated having been around in a few different iterations, since 1939. Ford Europe decided to retire the Anglia gracefully and replace it with a new small family car. It settled on a name it had already used for a short-lived version of the Squire in the 1950s, the Escort.

The Escort featured rear-wheel drive, either four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission and rack-and-pinion steering. Design-wise, it looked modern, with coke-bottle flared styling and a ‘dog bone’ front grille.

Production took place at both the Halewood plant in Merseyside and for left-hand drive models, in Belgium and later Germany.The Escort was officially launched at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1968.   

Autocar called it “a big step forward from the Anglia for Ford” and said it offered “good value and a much safer performance than its predecessor”. The reviewer predicted that it would become a strong force to reckon with. However, nobody could have forecast that over the next six years, Ford would sell more than two million first series Escorts. In the UK especially, it was a sales sensation.

Escort production spanned for 30 years, being replaced by the Focus in 1998.

This 1972 Tawny Brown 1300L 4 door example was discovered by its third owner after a very long period of dry stored hibernation in 2018.

A thorough recommissioning was conducted, consisting of a windows-out full respray and comprehensive detailing of the engine and ancillary items. From what we can see, no welding was required due to the car being safely dry stored and covering such minimal mileage prior to storage.

Whilst the early history is no longer with the car, judging by the overall condition and superbly preserved underside, the indicated mileage of just over 25,000 miles could very well be authentic.

In the custody of its fourth owner the car has been enjoyed and regularly taken to local shows and admired for its originality, during this time it has covered a little over 2,500 miles.

A new MOT will be conducted upon sale for added peace of mind.

 

 

             

 

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1989 Mercedes 190 2.6E Auto. Exceptional, with full supporting history. A collector’s dream.

1989 Mercedes 190 2.6E Auto. Exceptional, with full supporting history. A collector’s dream.
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Development for the W201 or ‘Baby Benz’ started in the first half of the 1970’s and was Mercedes first attempt to make a small saloon to compete with the Audi 80 and BMW 3 Series models in its home market. Taking a total of 8 years and a huge $750 million dollar investment to create. The car was designed by Bruno Sacco, notably responsible for developing the first S-Class model, introduced in 1979 and designated W126.

The first road-going prototypes underwent extensive testing in 1978 and the final version was unveiled to the public at the Paris Motor show in 1982.

From September 1983 the Mercedes 190E was exported to Britain, priced to compete with the 320i and 323i models from BMW’s E30 range.

In 1985, Britain got its first new engine – a 2.6-litre six-cylinder unit shared with the larger W124 260E. The Mercedes 190E 2.6 took the fight to the new BMW 325i, offering comfort and performance in one compact package.

It is worth remembering that at this time, Mercedes had a reputation of over engineering their cars which did make them feel very special to own and drive. The engineers it would seem were very much in control, something that changed with the Chrysler merger in the mid 90’s and the accountants keeping a close eye on costs. Something to this day that still remains very much the case.

This particular Arctic White E 2.6 was manufactured in September 1989 and delivered to its first long term owner residing in Richmond, Surrey on the 13th October. Supplied by Mercedes-Benz Great West Road, the options fitted consisting of: Automatic transmission, Front armrest, Alarm system, customer’s audio unit and electric aerial. The total invoice value amounting to £23,942.76

The years of caring ownership by 3 dedicated owners are evident when you see the overall condition of this wonderful example. The paintwork maintaining its factory fresh shine and the interior as original and clean as a car much younger in years.  

The underside is a treat to behold for a 190 that is approaching 36 years of age, coupled with an EXCELLENT MOT history which can be viewed on-line. All MOT’s dating back to 1995 are contained within the vehicle file along with its original new car invoice, factory data build sheet, complete tool kit, first aid kit and 3 original keys.

Overall, a great driving analogue compact executive saloon that sounds fantastic with its torquey straight six engine. A car that can be easy to maintain and absolute joy to own. You will be hard pressed to find another example to this standard. 

The car has just recently become available as we had to pause our operation for almost 7 months due to Andrew suffering a stroke after major heart surgery. He is making a positive recovery but we kindly ask that if you make an arrangement to view, the appointment is honoured as we have to make additional arrangements to host visitation. Accordingly, thank you for your understanding. 

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