Big results for A9X Torana and RX-7 SP at Shannons auction

Shannons’ most recent auction has resulted in a few bidding surprises, with several cars exceeding their estimates by more than $20,000.

The most valuable sale Shannons reported was that of the survivor ‘cage-find’ Holden Torana A9X, which has been locked up in a carpark storage cage for some time under the same owner of almost three decades.

Even with 94,184km showing on the odo, it managed to top its upper estimate of $250,000 by $25K, raking in $275,000.

Next, we were particularly impressed with the price paid for a rare RX-7 SP. One of only 26 (Shannons says, though most people believe there are 25) road-going SPs, it was expected to fetch $80,000 - $90,000.

Someone ended up forking over $112,000 for the privilege of owning what is believed to be the only surviving ‘Brilliant Black’ SP.

A Shannons spokesperson recently told MOTOR to expect more sales like this in regards to more modern Japanese classics, especially those of the 1990s.

“Cars like the MR2 and WRX [which had recently performed well at auction] are still relatively affordable compared with most Australian or European classics, easy to obtain parts for and work on.

“They also appeal to younger car enthusiasts, bringing a new generation of sellers and buyers to our auctions.”

Another particularly impressive jump in end sale price is that of the Holden HK Monaro which was expected to sell for up to $45K. The six-pot Munro ended up $41K up on that, with $86,000 being the final bid.

A HQ Monaro GTS 350 also beat its estimate by $19K when it sold for $69,000.

Not one which thrashed its estimate, but a win for the buyer, was the rare BMW E46 M3 Competition, which sold for $77,000, $7000 over its estimate.

Interestingly, the headlining Ferrari Dino 246 GT is reportedly under negotiation after reaching $595,000 in its bidding, even though it was expected to sell for at least $620K.

UPDATE: Days after the auction, Shannons revealed the Dino sold “within its $620,000-$680,000 guiding range for an undisclosed amount.”

This makes Shannons' Autumn Classic Australia’s highest-grossing classic vehicle auction, having totaled $6.5 million.

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