Words: Rory FH Smith
Chris Evans may be the man who has everything, and we really mean everything. He’s hit headlines recently as the newly appointed anchorman of the BBC’s Top Gear, he’s the brain behind the hugely popular Car Fest and is generally pretty hard to avoid unless you’re oblivious to both television and radio. Oh, and did we mention that he holds the keys to a stunning collection of classic cars?
But despite the fame and multimillion-pound TV contract, Evans clearly needs to raise some capital and has decided to auction off 13 of his beloved motors at the Bonhams Goodwood Revival Sale. From Ferrari’s worth more than central London real estate to weird and wonderful replicas, here are 7 of the best cars from Evans’ collection.
1964 Daimler Dart Police Car SP250
Estimate: £50,000-60,000
More than a handsome British sports car, this particular Dart was once the pride and joy of the boys in blue. Complete with siren and in-built radio transmitter.
1970 Mercedes 280SL ‘Pagoda’
Estimate: £100,000-130,000
The Mercedes ‘Pagoda’ has risen to classic car fame in recent years, largely because of its delicate and elegant design, as penned by Paul Bracq in 1963. With a rise in popularity comes a rise in price and most good condition Pagodas will command north of £50,000. Add another £50,000 for one with a celebrity former owner.
1983 Fiat 127 Abarth
Estimate: £10,000-15,000
This striking little pocket rocket from 1983 is a light-hearted break from the top-end classics. Estimated to sell at an attractive £10,000-£15,000, this tangerine Italian would be a welcome addition to any car collection.
1967 Jaguar XKSS ‘Lynx’
Estimate: £325,000-375,000
Designed as a road-going version of the Jaguar D-type Le Mans racer, only 16 Jaguar XKSS models made it off the production line, with most ending up in the USA. With Steve McQueen having also owned one, it’s unsurprising that this example is expected to fetch well over £300,000.
1936 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Replica
Estimate: £250,000-350,000
Evans’ car collection extends much further than the usual investment selection. This Chitty Chitty Bang Bang replica is as close to the real deal as anyone will get. Complete with fantasy fulfilling front and side mounted wings, red wheels and novelty horn – it’s a childhood dream come true.
1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C Alloy
Estimate: £2,600,000-2,900,000
With a top-end estimate of nearly £3million, this pastel green Ferrari 275 GTB is for the serial investors only. 1950-1970s Ferrari prices have rocketed since 2012 and, with cars like this tidy 275, show little sign of slowing.
1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spider
Estimate: £2,300,000-2,600,000
The unquestionable jewel in Evans’ collection is the 1971 Ferrari Daytona Spider. This svelte homage to the wedge-shaped car designs of the 1970s is one for the discerning collector, especially with an estimate of around £2.5m.
Feeling flush, gents? All 13 of Evans’ cars will be auctioned at Bonhams Goodwood Revival sale on 12th September. Click here for more information.
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