Bevy of vintage car beauties on auction
ONE of the largest and most prestigious events on the South African motoring calendar is due to take place on Saturday and Sunday February 8 and 9, in George. Thousands of car enthusiasts, onlookers, browsers, car fanatics and simply the curious from all over the country and abroad are preparing to descend on the Midas George Old Car Show when the gates open at 8am.
As usual, the House of Classic and Sports Cars (based in Knysna) will be holding an auction of vintage, classic and sports cars where about 20 beautiful vehicles will go under the auctioneer's hammer.
The auction starts at 1pm on Saturday, with the assistance of Johan Kotze from Auctions Extreme.
The bidder's premium (auctioneer's commission) of 6% is given to the Southern Cape Old Car Club for onward donation to a charity or charities of its choice.
Vehicles submitted for auction so far, include 1958 MGA 1500, 1933 International Truck, 1958 De Soto, 1981 MGB Roadster, 1961 Cadillac de Ville Coupe, 1928 Rugby du Rand, 1959 Opel Rekord, 1948 Plymouth four-door Sedan, 1955 Ford Customline, 1980 MGB Roadster LHD, 1961 Porsche 356B, 1946 MG TC, 1950 Ford Customline, 1968 Wolseley 1660, 1950 MG TD, 1941 Chevrolet panel van, 1969 Rambler Rogue, 1958 VW Beetle and 1958 Ford Fairlane.
A number of these vehicles are extremely rare, such as the 1933 International truck which is a proud testimony to the dedication and attention to detail of craftsman of earlier years.
Part of the truck's cab and the entire back section have been constructed using different types of timber, taking one back to days long gone by and retaining an old-world feel.
A brass plaque on the side of the vehicle reads, "This International Model A2 truck was sold to J Zuckerman & Co Cape Town in 1934. It was used for delivering goods until 'traded in' for another 'International' in 1960. The engine is the original and has once been rebored. Gearbox, axles and steering are also the originals. The cab has been restored and the body replaced as the original oak flooring has been attacked by dry rot. After more than 70 years it is still running."
Another rare vehicle on offer, is a 1941 Chevrolet panel van.
As far as is known, there are only two such panel vans left in South Africa, although a number of trucks are still available.
The reason for the reduction in the number of panel vans is that they were used for carting produce or fertiliser on farms, delivering groceries, bread and milk by shopkeepers, by workmen to carry their tools or building materials and even, in some instances, as ambulances.
This particular vehicle which will go on auction was lovingly restored by its owner who bought it in a less-than-healthy condition.
The van appeared to have been used to carry bricks thrown carelessly onto the back and causing dents which had to be carefully attended to.
The vehicle has been beautifully restored and would grace any vintage car collection.
Due to its eye-catching appeal, it could also be used as a travelling billboard to promote business.
A limited number of spots are still available for the auction, so there is still time to enter your vehicle.
For more information or to enter your car on the auction, send an e-mail to wendy.r@hocasc.co.za
Alternatively, contact House of Classic & Sports Cars on (044)382-1000/ 082-566-7897/ 082-921-4156/ 081-325-1507 or go and make a turn on its website www.hocasc.co.za
