Autosportfoto

Over 100 classics on the grid in race retro sale

Silverstone Auctions returns to Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, for the third year running this weekend to host its biggest ever Race Retro auction.

More than 100 classic cars and motorcycles are going under the hammer in the two day sale on the 22nd and 23rd of February, joining a selection of fine automobilia as well as a luxury lifestyle collection, offered at the historic motorsport show for the first time.

As befitting the surroundings, visitors will have the chance to bid on 42 stunning classics from the track and rally stage. Highlights include the instantly recognisable 1977 Ford Escort Mk2 RS1800 Gp4 Historic Rally Car, which was tested by the late Colin McRae and driven by his father Jimmy as well as brother Alister to victory in historic rally events.

Commenting on the first sale of the year, Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: "We're incredibly excited to offer such a fantastic array of classics this weekend. It's quite possibly one of our most intriguing catalogues ever and interest is set to be high."

Another star lot has to be an incredibly rare 1987 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante X-Pack, estimated at between £135,000 to £155,000. With only 84 examples ever made, there are few cars in the market that both define their era and offer such exclusivity. Another rare British soft-top, in the form of a 1962 Jaguar E-Type Series One Flat-Floor Roadster, will be offered, estimated at between £115,000 to £130,000. The car has been restored by respected classic car restoration craftsman, Spellbound Cars of Farnham, which are offering a 12 month or 6,000 mile parts and labour warranty on this special E-Type.

F1 fans will have the chance to bid on a 1978 James Hunt race helmet, estimated at between £18,000 to £25,000, and a signed pair of Nigel Mansell racing gloves, that were worn by Mansell when he obtained pole position at Silverstone for the British Grand Prix in July 1990, estimated at between £1,500 to £2,500. A 1992 Honda NSX, used by the late Ayrton Senna, will also be going under the hammer, estimated at between £75,000 to £85,000.

Possibly the finest motorsport book ever made is available with the very last Opus Formula One Champions Edition. Estimated at between £15,000 to £20,000, this copy is personally signed by Bernie Ecclestone and by all the living world championship winning drivers, plus the late great Phil Hill. Passes and grandstand tickets for Saturday and Sunday of the 2014 British Grand Prix and a meet and greet tea with Bernie himself are also offered with this unique lot.

Nick added: "It's always a pleasure to be at Race Retro and we look forward to some enthusiastic bidding on the exciting lots we have available."

Lots 101-358 will be offered on Saturday 22nd February with Lots 401-653 offered on Sunday 23rd February. Viewing is available on all lots on Friday 21st February as well as the morning of the 22nd and 23rd. Those not attending Race Retro can register to bid by commission, online or via phone. For the full lot list or to register for this weekend's auction please visit http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/race-retro--classic-car-sale-2014.