Morris Leslie's Feb 23 classic car auction is packed full of automotive gems. Here are our top picks from this Saturday's sale
Spring is fast approaching, and so too is classic car season! Morris Leslie kick-start their 2019 auction calendar on February 23 with an eclectic selection of British, European and American offerings sure to tempt almost every motoring enthusiast. Here's our top picks from an impressive selection.
1996 Chevrolet GMC Astro Van
Brought to market to compete with Chrysler’s minivans, Chevrolet launched the GMC Astra Van in 1985. It was aimed at those who sought a van-like vehicle but with reduced proportions to improve day-to-day usability. Sold at an attractive base price and able to accommodate up to 8 passengers, the Astro was a torque-rich workhorse with impressive towing capacity.
This 1996 model is a second generation Astro Van complete with face-lifted rectangular headlights, extended-length chassis, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and dual front airbags. UK-registered in 2007, this Astro Van also comes with an electric folding bed, mood lighting and Michelin tyres all round and is estimated to sell for £3000-£4000 ($3900 - $5200). Find out more here.
1986 Mercedes 190E Cosworth
This classic Mercedes 190E Cosworth from 1986 is one layer of greatness atop another. Even in standard form, the 190E was the result of six years of intensive development as Mercedes worked to produce a strong World Rally Championship contender. Factor in the magic of a 2, 299cc Cosworth engine delivering 182bhp and 173lb-ft of torque, combined with multi-link suspension and limited-slip differential, and you have both a rapid and robust driving machine.
Estimated to sell for between £15,000 - £20,000 ($19,500 - $26,000), this 190E Cosworth was fully restored some 200 miles ago and comes with a full Evo 1 body, Evo 2 alloys and an advisory free MOT until January 2020. You can find out more here.
1971 Austin Mini Cooper S
Reputed to be the best handling production Mini, the Mk III Austin Mini Cooper S was a small car that contained a surprising punch of power under its tiny frame. Introduced in autumn 1969, initial production was delayed for several months due to legal wrangles between the British Motoring Corporation and John Cooper. Available to buy as of May 1970, the model quickly became adored by rally drivers and ordinary road drivers alike.
The peppy engine delivered 76bhp while hydrolastic suspension worked to reduce the seesaw effect that resulted from enthusiastic acceleration and braking. Hard to distinguish from a Mini 1000, the main clues to identifying a Cooper S were the boot badge and a speedometer that went up to 130mph. This one owner edition comes with an MOT until December 2019 and an estimate of £15,000 - £18,000 ($19,500 - $23,450). You can find out more here.
You can find out more about the upcoming auction here.
