The Week In Deals

RICHARD BARNETT’S WEEK OF LOOKING AT THE MARKET

THURSDAY

It might be a good way off, but SWVA’s late July sale already has a few cars entered. A restored 1964 Triumph Vitesse convertible has Herald Coupé looks thanks to its hardtop; it’s estimated at £6000-7000. If you’re looking for a good 1960s starter classic the 1964 Hillman Minx, estimated at £750-1250, could be worth thinking about. It’s said to have a massive history file and, as a cheerful and potentially affordable saloon, should prove a hit with Poole punters. Meanwhile, giving on space but certainly big on character, how about a 1960 Sprite (below)? It was re-built in 20102012 and runs a 1275cc motor with twin 1¼-carbs. Estimate? £12-14k.

SATURDAY

I really do like a low-mileage car – not super-low mind, just enough that shows some exercising over the years. Silverstone’s 22 May sale has a 1983 Bentley Mulsanne Turbo that has covered just 4896 miles from new. It turns out that it was bought along with another Bentley and two Rolls-Royces at the same time, and all were kept in a heated garage with parquet flooring. Let’s hope the new owner can continue this car’s wonderfully luxurious, relaxed experience. I’ve also been taken by the 1965 Alfa Romeo 1900 which is thought to have been built by ATL, a small concern based on the shores of Lake Como. Freshly in the UK from northern Italy, it has seen little use since a stalled 1980s restoration re-commenced. With ‘Superleggera’-style chassis and thin-gauge aluminium body panels it’s a symphony of curves and (to my eyes at least) looks wonderful from any angle.