Vintage motors primed for latest auction

Eager to own their own slice of motoring history, hundreds of buyers from across the globe are expected to attend Bonhams’ auction of collectors’ motorcars and motorcycles at the Yorkshire Event Centre.

One of the biggest draws is expected to be the 1928 Brough Superior SS100 motorcycle, which is estimated to sell for between £165,000 and £185,000. The machine was recommissioned for road use in the 1990s having previously been used for sprinting and other speed events by racing motorcyclist and Brough Superior Club president Dick Knight, who bought the bike in the 1970s.

Other motorcycles set to attract interest include a 1955 Vincent Series-D Black Shadow, which is expected to go for around £38,000, and a 1950 Norton 500cc International, which could fetch between £17,000 and £20,000.

Ben Walker, head of motorcycles at Bonhams, said: “Harrogate always provides an excellent environment in which to offer a collectable motorcycle. The results and percentage sold are consistently high and it always attracts an international audience.”

The star lots in the car section of the sale include a 1953 Bentley R-Type Special Roadster, believed to be worth as much as £45,000, which was created by renowned engineer and long-standing Rolls- Royce Enthusiasts’ Club member, the late Alan Archer.

A highly sought-after 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 coupé – which could be snapped up for £25,000 – is also expected to attract bidders.

The auctioneers’ motoring specialist John Polson said: “Bonhams are delighted to be returning to Harrogate, one of our best attended and most dynamic auctions.”

The other “automobilia” in the sale includes a rare and early Chevrolet enamel forecourt sign, the auctioneers add.