Auction View

DVCA expects 2018 to pan out much the same as 2017

Brian Chant, DVCA

“If a car’s presented well, it will sell”

How did 2017 work out? Better or worse than you expected?

You could say it was alright. It’s all been a bit slow and people are definitely being cautious because they can sense an uncertainty, although there was no difference before or after the general election. Having said that, this year we’ve averaged around a 70 per cent sales rate. I’m pleased we have a loyal customer base but they’re all local – almost all DVCA’s customers are enthusiasts.

You often have a few pre-war cars in your sales – still popular?

Pre-war cars are always good. There’s a strong level of interest in good condition cars of all types, and we’re finding a lot of women want an Austin 7 to run around in. We’ve had one or two very nice 7s recently, but I’d really like to offer a few Ford Model As. However, we can still sell lesser-known models. If a car has good history and it’s presented well, it will sell.

What about slightly later 1950s and 1960s cars?

We’ve sold three Jaguar XK150s this year and they are easier to sell than E-types, although I can’t understand why that’s the case. MGBs will always sell, and we’ll offer not-so-good examples if they’re given a sensible reserve. We’ll turn cars away too, though.

What’s the most significant car you’ve sold this year?

In our September sale we offered a 1972 Jensen Interceptor that had been owned by the vendor for 39 years. Described as a ‘running restoration’ project it was estimated at £6000-8000, but sold for £19,800.

Do you have a view on modern classics?

I don’t mind them, but in all honesty, I don’t really want too many in a given sale.

Are you still pleased with your Athelhampton House location?

We’re certainly staying at Athelhempton House. The catalogue might cost £14 for two people but it also offers admission to the house and gardens.

How many sales have you planned for next year?

Like this year we’ll be holding four in 2018, the first on 8 March.

And how do you think the market will perform in 2018?

I think it’ll be much the same as it’s been this year.