When in the market for a used Mercedes, one doesn’t usually stumble upon a perfectly-preserved, unrestored 85-year-old Mercedes with one careful owner.
But this will be the case at this year’s Goodwood Revival, where one of the most interesting cars will be sitting on the auction block instead of racing around the track.
A 1927 Mercedes-Benz 26/120/180 ‘S’ type will be for sale at the Bonhams Car Auction on 15 September, with an expected selling price of at least £1.5 million.
This so-called ‘Lost Mercedes’, capable of speeds up to 100 mph when produced, was purchased in London by the grandfather of the present owner. A car aficionado, he purchased it soon after it was released on the market.
This stately and dignified low-slung convertible contains a supercharged 6.8 litter engine designed by Ferdinand Porsche, and is painted in a dark battleship grey.
It appears to have been in active use until the 1950s, and has remained in the same family from the date of purchase until the present day. Despite sitting unused in a garage for more than 50 years, the car is still in good condition, with the original fittings and upholstery still intact – along with the original owner’s log-book.
This unusual find is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure a car of this nature.
“At a time when motor cars in original condition and with impeccable provenance are appreciated more than ever, this one-owner car offers an unrepeatable opportunity for collectors,” Bonhams specialist Rupert Banner said.
It is only fitting that this vintage Mercedes is up for auction during the Goodwood Revival, held at the Goodwood Estate, over the weekend of 14-16 September 2012.
The Goodwood Revival is now an annual fixture on the calendar, having begun in 1998. This historic motor race meeting has a clear vintage feel. All the competing cars and motorcycles date from pre-1966, with no modern automobiles allowed on the grounds over the weekend. Participants and visitors are encouraged to come attired in vintage or vintage-inspired outfits. This celebration of the past is fun for visitors and racers alike. Safety standards in these older motorcycles are much lower than current standards and you’d be well advised to use a quality motorcycle helmet before going for a ride on one of these classics.
Other vintage cars up for auction at the Revival include a 1931 Invicta 4 1/2-Litre S-Type Low-Chassis Tourer ‘Bluebird’ and a 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 MKIII Works Rally/Race Car.
