The Motor Sale: Results

Low mileage classics mixed with historic vehicles in Tennants Auctioneers’ first Motor Car, Motor Bike and Automobilia Sale of the year on 12^th May, attracting crowds of eager bidders. The level of interest was reflected in a healthy 90% sold rate, and stand-out prices for top lots.

One of the highlights of the sale, and a magnet for motorbike enthusiasts, was a 1952 Vincent Black Shadow Series C, which sold for £40,000 (plus buyer’s premium). Part of the Eddie Saxton Collection of Vintage Motorbikes, the Black Shadow is regarded as the world’s first superbike and, with a top speed of 125mph, it was the fastest production motorcycle of its era. From the same collection was a Sunbeam Model 8.OHV, which topped it’s £5,000-7,000 estimate to sell for £12,500 (plus buyer’s premium).

A 1972 gold Rolls Royce Corniche II – the ultimate symbol of 1970s and 80s success – with only 28,000 miles on the clock lead the car section of the sale, selling for £51,000 (plus buyer’s premium). The oldest car in the sale was a Clément-Bayard, made in 1914, which had starred in the 1978 film of ‘The 39 Steps’ starring Robert Powell. This rare vehicle, with added provenance, sold for £20,000 (plus buyer’s premium). Further highlights included a 2007 Jaguar XKR Coupe (sold for £16,200 plus buyer’s premium), an 1929 Austin Seven ‘Chummy’ Tourer (sold for £11,800 plus buyer’s premium), a 1970 Morris Minor Traveller (sold for £7,500 plus buyer’s premium), and a 1989 Mini Mayfair with only 4830 miles on the clock (sold for £6,000 plus buyer’s premium).

Automobilia, as ever, proved in demand, with highlights including a pedal car of an Austin A40, which sold for £1,700 (plus buyer’s premium), and a 1920s/30s Illuminated Double Sided Shell Advertising Sign, which sold for £1,900 (plus buyer’s premium).

The sale resulted in a total hammer price of £309,145 for 294 lots, with a 90% sold rate.

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