1960 300SL Leads No-Reserve Collection at Bonhams Audrain

Twenty-two all no-reserve cars from the Estate of Mr. James Messenger headline the Bonhams|Cars Audrain Concours Auction on September 29 in Newport. Of the 55 total offerings in the sale, this collection showcases a well-curated array of European, British and American classics. 

Of particular note is the 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. The car is finished in anthracite metallic with chrome-finish wheels and has had a recent retrimming of the interior in black leather. Conceived from the original “Gullwing” model, having proven its prowess on the racetrack, the 300SL underwent a series of developments ultimately achieving the refined convertible variant – a civilized driver’s choice with one of the finest engines of the era. This car, s/n chassis 002689, retains its original, numbers-matching engine. It’s estimated to be worth from $1.2m to $1.4m.  

Other highlights from the Messenger collection include: 

A 1960 Aston Martin DB4 (estimate: $500,000 to $600,000) is just one of 349 Series II cars produced and is beautifully presented both inside and out. It’s had extensive restoration work and has a fascinating history dating back to 1958 when it was delivered new to England’s J.W.A Stamper. 

A Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 (estimate $450,000 to $500,000), with striking tangerine paintwork with black Carrera stripes, is a pure expression of the Porsche 911. Just one of 1,308 M472 “Touring” models built, this rare Carrera RS was converted to “Lightweight” specifications by the highly regarded Porsche racing and restoration specialist David Morse of Morspeed in California. 

A 1958 Porsche 356A T2 1600 Speedster (estimate: $350,000 to $400,000) comes from the final production year for the legendary Speedster, of which only 552 were produced. This T2 model benefits from the numerous cosmetic and mechanical improvements made during its run, making it the most desirable year for a Speedster. Well-preserved and moderately used, this car is a prime candidate for rallies and road events.

Another noteworthy collection offered in the sale is the Estate of Andrew W. Edmonds. The Massachusetts collector was an avid participant in The Classic Car Club of America and took great pride in his collection, especially his rare V16 Cadillacs. Considered the most collectible classics from the era – the auction will present a 1931 Cadillac V16 All Weather Phaeton (estimate: $175,000 to $250,000) and a 1940 Cadillac V16 Convertible Sedan (estimate: $100,000 to $120,000). 

Learn more about the Audrain Concours auction here.

Images: Bonhams|Cars