Bonhams|Cars – Twenty-two all no-reserve cars from the Estate of Mr. James Messenger headlines the Bonhams|Cars Audrain Concours Auction on September 29 in Newport. Of the 55 total offerings in the sale, this collection showcases a well-curated array of European, British, and American classics. Of particular note is the 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster, presented in its finest form, further elevating the already iconic model to another level. The anthracite metallic exterior is punctuated by its chrome-finish wheels and recent retrimming of the interior in black leather, among other elegant finishes. Conceived from the original “Gullwing” model, having proven its prowess on the racetrack, the 300SL underwent a series of developments ultimately achieving the refined convertible variant – a civilized driver’s choice with one of the finest engines of the era. With records to show this car retains its original, numbers-matching engine, this car, chassis 002689 is a superlative example honoring one of the finest sportscars of all time.
Other highlights from the Messenger collection include:
- A 1960 Aston Martin DB4 is just one of 349 Series 2 produced and is beautifully presented both inside and out. From its extensive restoration work and a cabin that exudes British grand touring sophistication, this marvelous DB4 Coupe also has a fascinating history dating back to 1958 when it was delivered new to England’s J.W.A Stamper.
- A Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, with striking tangerine paintwork with black Carrera stripes, is a pure expression of the Porsche 911. Just one of 1,308 M472 “Touring” models built, this rare Carrera RS was converted to “Lightweight” specifications by the highly regarded Porsche racing and restoration specialist David Morse of Morspeed in California.
- A 1958 Porsche 356A T2 1600 Speedster comes from the final production year for the legendary Speedster, of which only 552 were produced. This T2 model benefits from the numerous cosmetic and mechanical improvements made during its run, making it the most desirable year for a Speedster. Well-preserved and moderately used, this car is a prime candidate for rallies and road events.
Another noteworthy collection offered in the sale is the Estate of Andrew W. Edmonds. The Massachusetts collector was an avid participant in The Classic Car Club of America and took great pride in his collection, especially his rare V16 Cadillacs. Considered the most collectible classics from the era – the auction will present a 1931 Cadillac V16 All Weather Phaeton and a 1940 Cadillac V16 Convertible Sedan .
About Bonhams|Cars – Bonhams|Cars uniquely offers a choice of live, online and private platforms for buying and selling collector cars—platforms characterized by levels of trust, reliability, and transparency born of over three decades of experience as the premier automotive auction house. Through prestigious live auctions around the world, 24/7 online auctions, and our recently introduced Private Sales service, Bonhams|Cars makes it simple for buyers and sellers to find the platform that best meets their needs.
Bonhams|Cars host 17 live auctions annually, participates in all the significant concours around the world, and presents unique selling opportunities at international events such as the 2023 Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as the official auction partner of the Formula 1 Paddock Club™, Goodwood Motorsport Events in the UK, The Quail on the Monterey Peninsula in California, The Audrain Concours in Newport, Rhode Island and The Zoute Concours d’Elégance in Belgium. At Bonhams|Cars Online, formerly The Market by Bonhams, they provide clients with fast, expert, accurate and agile single-car auctions, 24/7. With dedicated motoring departments in London, Paris, Los Angeles, New York, Brussels and beyond, Bonhams|Cars has a world-class team with expertise in all divisions, from vintage cars to racing motorsport and automobilia to motorcycles.
For more information, please visit BonhamsCars.com
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