Modern classics ready to auction at Shannons

Shannons is seeing an increase in interest in modern classics.

We know this, because last month a Toyota MR2 practically doubled its auction estimate by the time it sold, and a tidy first-gen WRX put in an equally impressive effort.

So, we’ve picked out a few cars to watch during the next auction, held in Sydney on Monday March 12.

1995 Mazda RX-7 SP

One of only 26 road-going SPs, Shannons believes, this RX-7 is among the rarest rotaries around.

It has only 87,500km on the clock, is in stock condition, and is believed to be the only surviving ‘Brilliant Black’ SP.

It’s so sought after, in fact, that a Shannons spokesperson told MOTOR it has garnered as much interest as the more ‘traditional’ classics like the A9X Torana and Ferrari Dino present at Shannons.

“Cars like the MR2 and WRX 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.”

This RX-7 SP, however, is on another level, with an estimate of $80,000 - $90,000.

2005 BMW M3 Competition

This two-owner M3 Competition with only 78,204km once featuring in an article in MOTOR’s sister mag Wheels, with scribe James Whitbourn describing it as “a nostalgic blast in perhaps the definitive M3.”

This particular car had the subframe and limited-slip diff repaired under warranty by BMW, so it’s not perfect, but it’s as close as it can be.

It looks stunning in Interlagos Blue, and will likely starts to become more valuable than its $60,000 - $70,000 estimate very soon.

1998 BMW 840Ci

In anticipation for the next BMW 8 Series, we thought it’d be worth mentioning this 840Ci up for grabs.

With a $25,000 - $30,000 estimate but no reserve, it should be a good buy for a Bimmer fan who needs a V8 cruiser coupe in their life.

Its colour screams “’90s”, and so does the interior, but its rarity will draw admiration, or at least curiosity, from passers-by.

1990 Mazda RX-7 Series V

If your budget won’t allow for a car nudging six figures, but you still want an RX-7, fear not.

This older FC-gen car will fill the void, even if it’s not as a fast or as iconic. And it’s automatic.

It does, however, boast fewer kays at just 79,243 showing, and comes with original books and a much smaller $10,000-$15,000 price estimate.

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