Famous racers dominate classic car auction

MORE THAN 100 classic cars and motorbikes will go under the hammer this weekend at one of the biggest ever auctions of its type.

Silverstone Auctions will host the Race Retro sale at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, where famous names like Ayrton Senna, James Hunt and Colin McRae will be scattered throughout the lots.

With 42 classic cars from track or rally competition backgrounds, there’s a vast selection of fascinating and ultra-desirable metal.

One of the stars is the 1977 ‘McRae’ Ford Escort Mk2 RS1800 Gp4 Historic Rally Car, which was tested by the late Colin McRae and driven by his father Jimmy as well as brother Alister to victory in historic rally events.

Commenting on the first sale of the year, Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “We’re incredibly excited to offer such a fantastic array of classics this weekend. It’s quite possibly one of our most intriguing catalogues ever and interest is set to be high.”

F1 fans will have the chance to bid on a 1978 James Hunt race helmet, estimated at between £18,000 to £25,000, and a signed pair of Nigel Mansell racing gloves, that were worn by Mansell when he obtained pole position at Silverstone for the British Grand Prix in July 1990, estimated at between £1,500 to £2,500.

A 1992 Honda NSX, used by the late Ayrton Senna, will also be going under the hammer, estimated at between £75,000 to £85,000.

Nick added: “It’s always a pleasure to be at Race Retro and we look forward to some enthusiastic bidding on the exciting lots we have available.”

By Press Association reporter