US icons To Shine At Shannons May Auction

SYDNEY – April 22, 2011: Six iconic American cars spanning 40 years are amongst the 27 classic vehicles going under the hammer at Shannons Autumn Auction in Sydney on May 2.

From the 1920s is a stylish right-hand-drive 1928 LaSalle 314-A seven-seater Limousine.

Inspired by Europe’s Hispano-Suiza and styled by Harley Earl, the LaSalle was introduced to the market in 1927 by General Motors as a more elaborate 'companion brand' to their top-end Cadillac.

The example being auctioned by Shannons is a former wedding car presented in very good condition and according to Shannons it would make an elegant addition to any collection, or an ideal special occasion vehicle. It is expected to bring $44,000-$50,000.

Also from the ‘20s is a beautifully-presented and fully-restored right-hand-drive 1925 Dodge Tourer that has been in the hands of the current owner for the past 25 years and famously appearing in a music video clip with the band INXS.

The Dodge has been thoroughly serviced and tuned in preparation for this auction, including a 50-hour professional detail. It is expected to sell in the $12,000-$16,000 range.

Two great Series 62 Cadillacs provide enthusiasts of this iconic American model with an interesting choice.

The left hand drive 1954 Coupe ($28,000-$34,000) comes to the auction fresh from a recent thorough restoration that has seen it receive new paintwork, new chrome and a new interior.

As a more gregarious alternative, Shannons have a 1960 Series 62 factory Convertible ($44,000-$50,000) that was the subject of a ground-up restoration 20 years ago, during which it was converted to right hand drive. However it has only covered 20,000 miles since, most of it as a wedding and special events vehicle.

Classic Fords are also well represented in the auction, with a beautiful black (LHD) 1963 Thunderbird Coupe with the desirable ‘Brocade’ premium fabric interior.

This rare ‘A’ code hardtop coupe is powered by the optional 4-barrel, 390ci 'big-block' V8 and its 49,550 indicated miles are reported by the vendor to be genuine.

Equipped with power windows and seats, air conditioning and a new clock, the T-Bird is expected to sell in the $25,000-$30,000 range.

Finally for Mustang lovers there is a nicely presented 1965 ‘Hertz Replica’ Fastback coupe that combines classic style with a number of more modern mechanical features.

The car has been fitted with an EL Ford Fairlane 5Litre V8 EFI engine, with EL cross flow radiator and twin electric fans, while a dual 3-inch exhaust system with catalytic mufflers and up-graded disc/drum brakes have also been professionally fitted to make it a reliable everyday driver.

Shannons expect it to sell in the $40,000-$45,000 range.

The six American icons are amongst 27 vehicles and 21 items of memorabilia – including four sought-after NSW black and white enamel numberplates, headed by ‘109’ ($155,000-$175,000) and ‘241’($110,000-$125,000) – in the May 2 auction.

All items will be available for inspection at Shannons Sydney showroom, 65 Reserve Road, St.Leonards over the April 30-May 1 weekend, from 9am-5pm Saturday and 10am-4pm Sunday.