The annual auction of classic vehicles and automobilia takes place in Carmarthen tomorrow (Saturday) and the auctioneers have unearthed a number of unexpected rarities, in addition to the regular display of collectable cars and bikes from the '50s, '60s and '70s.
An early entry was perhaps the most unusual find in that this vehicle has, potentially, an interesting Le Mans 24-hour race history. The 1938 Atalanta sports car, a two seater not unlike an SS Jaguar or Morgan, was only produced for a short while and around 300 made.
Early examples like this one had 1500cc Gough engines which were notoriously unreliable. This particular car is believed to have run at Le Mans in 1938, but suffered an engine failure after three or four laps! Later cars had Lincoln V12 engines (!). Offered without an engine, this restoration project, with interesting history, is expected to realise £20-30,000 in the sale.
Also entered is a quite stunning 1929 American Franklin Golfers Coupe, imported in the last few years by a Pembroke enthusiast and restored by him to splendid running order. Unusually, having an air cooled engine, the same as Charles Lindberg's Spirit of St. Louis aeroplanes, this is one of only two examples of the marque in this country, the other being an upright saloon. Realistically estimated at only £14-16,000, this race car is only being sold to free up space for the owner's extensive collection.
More regular classics include an Inspector Morse MKII Jaguar, two Triumph TR6s, an MGB Raodster and an MGBGT V. A Triumph TR3A will take years and lots of money to restore, but a show car Morris 1000 is ready to go!
Biggest in the sale is a vast 1959 Cadillac Fleetwood, one that Elvis would not look out of place in, and dinkiest is an unusual 1958 Austin Metropolitan, designed in the USA, but built in the UK.
An interesting collection of motor bikes, including a Triton Café Racer and a 1953 Sun Challenger with some very early Marklin and Bing Model Railway items, as well as the usual automobilia, complete the catalogue.
First chance to view is today (Friday) at 2 pm and the sale is tomorrow (Saturday) at 11 am, all at the new Towyside Saleroom in Old Station Road, Carmarthen.