Records tumble as classics auctioned

TWO unusual classic Range Rovers have set new world record prices at auction.

Originally commissioned for King Juan Carlos of Spain, the cars were sold at Coys Essen Techno Classica sale in Germany on Saturday.

A 1977 Range Rover by Alcom Devices sold for €78,750 and a 1973 Range Rover Cabriolet (pictured right) also went for €78,750, proving the demand for early Range Rovers is gaining pace.

Given the political climate of the time, the 1977 Range Rover was ordered from Alcom Devices in London and boasted, amongst other features, special armour, 10mm bulletproof glass all round and a James Bond-like communication system for the King, which made it possible to track him in cars, yachts, helicopters or anywhere else.

The 1973 model was used by Juan Carlos in the early 1970s before his crowning as King of Spain. The interior was trimmed in sumptuous leather and the dashboard was transformed in the usual Wood & Pickett fashion.

The exterior was fitted an distinctive grille of horizontal bars, which gave the front end a more streamlined appearance, and Wolfrace wheels.

A 1972 Lamborghini Jamara Series I also set a European record by going under the hammer for €182,250.

Amongst other highlights of the sale was a 1928 Bugatti T 44 Fiacre By Gangloff, which sold well over its estimate for €618,750.

This car is a very rare survivor of only a handful remaining, which was once owned by the wellknown collector and author of many Bugatti books, Mr Uwe Hucke, in the mid 1960`s.

He kept Chassis No. 441141 until 1977 when he sold it to Mr. Helmut Schellenberg, the famous 1930’s Bugatti racing driver.

Other top results include a 1971 Ferrari Dino 246 GT sold for €292,500, a 1934 Alfa Romeo 6C for €142,875 and a 1989 Porsche 911 Speedster for €146,000.