Convertibles line up at auction
TWO stunning, multi award winning 1960s American Muscle Car convertibles from Ford and GM are going toe-to-toe for a last blast of sunshine in Shannons Melbourne Late Summer Auction on February 17.
From the blue corner comes a superb, multiple trophy winning Shelby Mustang GT 350 Convertible – one of only 404 made for the 1968 model year and one of just 190 of these equipped with the ‘Select-O-Matic’ C4 three-speed automatic transmission with T-bar shifter.
The availability of a Convertible Shelby Mustang model for 1968 was big news for enthusiasts, who previously were limited to Fastback models to enjoy the Shelby magic and the car being auctioned by Shannons is regarded as perhaps the very best of the ’68 Shelby Convertibles that have survived today.
The eye-catching, Candy Apple Red, matching numbers and Shelby Register-certified classic, presented in show-ready, original left-hand-drive condition, has been in Australia for six years following a ground-up restoration in the United States.
It arrived with a trunk-full of show trophies, but has since travelled less than 500 miles on its way to winning more “gold’’ at State and National Mustang Concours events.
Because of its stunning, show condition and proven collectability, Shannons expect this sought-after Muscle Car classic to sell in the $170,000-$200,000 range on February 17.
From the “red’’ corner there is an equally arresting and NCRS award-winning Silver Pearl with matching interior 1966 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray 427 Convertible – a model that today ranks near the top of every Corvette enthusiast’s bucket list.
The vehicle was judged by NCRS (National Corvette Restorers Society) judges in 2006 and received a “Top Flight’’ ranking, making it even more desirable for enthusiasts and collectors.
Equipped with a matching colour original factory hardtop, an uprated exhaust system, the optional Posi Traction limited slip differential, power disc brakes and a set of original steel rims with hub caps and four-ply tyres for judging and show ’n’ shine presentation, this very desirable 427/390HP Corvette has had just three documented owners from new and its indicated 24,000 miles is believed genuine.
Because of its excellent condition and collectability, Shannons expect the Sting Ray Convertible to sell in the $110,000-$130,000 range.