Controversial Aussie supersaloon roars into Motorclassica

| 20 Sep 2012

One of the rarest and most contentious cars in Australian history is expected to spark a bidding frenzy at Motorclassica next month.

Of huge interest in its native land will be one of just a dozen HDT VL DIrectors built for Holden by Aussie racing hero Peter Brock.

The 1987 model has covered fewer than 13,000km and is said to be original and pristine.

Costing a massive AUS$87,000 new, the 5-litre V8 was estimated to be worth in excess of AUS$300k when it last came up for sale a couple of years ago.

Perhaps the most discussed detail of the car was its Energy Polariser, a magic box in the engine bay claimed (with no scientific substantiation) to improve power by using crystals and magnets.

This feature of the car was said to have led to the souring of relations between Brock and Holden and eventually to the two parties going their separate ways.

The Director is just one of an impressive list of early consignments for the sale in Melbourne that will be run by leading Australian auctioneer Manheim.

The RACV Motorclassica takes place at the Royal Exhibition Building from 26-28 October and 30-plus classic cars with a combined value of more than AUS$5 million have already been consigned.

Other headliners include the ex-Twiggy factory rhd 1969 Lamborghini Miura S, plus a 1937 Bugatti Type 57 and 1963 Aston Martin DB5.

Other lots that look interesting are the Aussie-built Coventry Climax-powered 1967 Elfin 300 and ex-Don Orosco Maserati Tipo 61 'Birdcage' recreation.

Another rarity is the 1933 MG J3 Midget, one of few survivors of the 20-odd manufactured, while a 1908 Mercedes 35HP is believed to be the oldest surviving shaft-driven Merc in the world.

The 'oldest survivor' tag is also being applied to a 1958 Jaguar XK150 Roadster.

RACV Motorclassica Event Director Paul Mathers said: "We believe this partnership with will be the start of a beautiful friendship. With over 50 years of experience, Manheim is the Australian market leader in the provision of automotive auction services.

"It seems fitting, therefore, that they should partner with Australia's premier historic car show for their first foray into the classic car market. We look forward to working with the team and are certain their widespread expertise will ensure the absolute best prices for the cars being sold."

According to organisers: "$100 million worth of rare, collectable and desirable cars will descend on Melbourne for RACV Motorclassica 2012. Now in its third year, the award-winning event is set to attract over 20,000 visitors who will witness an unprecedented collection of classic, vintage and veteran vehicles, some of which will have travelled from as far as London to compete for the coveted title Best in Show."

The auction takes place towards the end of the three day concours and show, kicking off at 2pm on Sunday 28 October. For more information click here.