Rarity plays a significant role in determining the value of collector cars, and classic cars with limited production runs generally prove to be better investments.
This according to Creative Rides CEO Kevin Derrick, who says scarcity is one criterion in selecting cars for the annual two-day Montecasino auction showcase that takes place in Johannesburg on September 7 and 8.
“We have some of the best cars we’ve ever seen coming on our auction block this year and the quality and rarity thereof is the best we’ve ever had.
“As cars age, the rarity factor becomes more pronounced, especially if cars are well-maintained or restored to their original condition.
“This makes them extremely desirable to collectors; the fewer units available, the greater the value perception.
“Rare cars are harder to find and they often have unique features or specifications not found in mass-produced models. It’s also common sense that the basic principle of supply and demand means fewer examples increase market appetite and push up prices.”
Derrick says this year’s auction includes several collectable stunners.
- A 1963 Porsche 365B Cabriolet – special because it’s one of fewer than 60 Porsches that the German manufacturer has ever permitted to be built outside of Germany, and all of those beauties were born in South Africa in the 1960s. It is believed that around 50 1963 Porsche 365Bs were imported in a knock-down format; only a handful of them cabriolets. There would have been more of these unique South African Porsches built, but at least half a dozen were lost overboard when the first container ship from Germany was caught in a storm in the Suez Canal in 1962. It is understood that only 12 or 13 of these rare sports cars now remain in the world. The model on auction is one of the rarest of the rare; a 1963 1600cc 356B Cabriolet assembled by Lindsay Motors in Johannesburg, and would have retailed for approximately R3 800 when it was first released to market. Lindsay Motors was the only company outside Germany licensed by Ferry Porsche to build these cherished cars during that era. This 1960s Cabriolet underwent a meticulous three-year restoration by a select group of Porsche experts, primarily at Carrera Motors Johannesburg, where the owners were tutored by Porsche Salzburg. Every part was sourced from Germany, ensuring authenticity and quality. It sports new dark blue paintwork, a brand-new top, and a tonneau cover. It also boasts a fresh set of tires. The rebuilt engine purrs with the distinctive Porsche note, and the twin carbs were carefully rebuilt to ensure smooth operation. Accompanying the car are its extensive history book and original birth certificate.
- One of the supercar greats, this 1995 Ferrari 348 GTB is one of 252 ever made – and one of only 14 original right-hand drives to have ever come from Ferrari in this model. Although based on the 348 TB, the 348 GTB differed with the V8 bumped up from 300 to 320bhp, the suspension geometry was revised, and the fuel tank size reduced to make space to improve chassis rigidity. The model on auction has been fitted with a Challenge body kit, but original parts are available in the sale. A major service (including belts) has just been done and fresh tyres fitted. Traditionally overshadowed by the 355, the 348 range is now gaining the recognition it deserves thanks to Testarossa-inspired looks and its manual gearbox. Adding to the cool factor is the factory-approved Tubi exhaust.
- Born and bred in the heart of South Africa, the 1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6 3.0 was built for homologation purposes to compete in the national racing series against the likes of BMWs and Fords of the 1980s. These cars have broken records at previous Creative Rides auctions and remain in high demand. This 1986 model pairs the balance of the 3.0 V6 engine upfront and the gearbox and differential in the rear, making it very stable at all speeds. Alfistas affirm that the 3.0L V6 is the sweetest sounding engine of its size and a masterpiece automotive crafting. Finding a GTV6 3.0 is becoming more and more difficult. With only 212 ever built, this car is an investment in South African craftsmanship.
- One of BMW’s sleekest designs, this 2011 BMW E92 M3 Frozen Edition is one of only 25 ever released on the South African market. This car is a collector gem. Boasting only 34 000km and with a record of meticulous maintenance, it is both an investment and a thrill to drive. The powerful V8 engine under the bonnet flies from standing to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, and onwards towards 290km/h.
- Made for the open road, the 2016 Jaguar F-Type Project 7 convertible is a remarkable collector edition sports car that combines cutting-edge performance with a tribute to Jaguar’s illustrious racing heritage. With a limited run of only 250 units worldwide hand-built by Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Operations team and with only 5 currently in South Africa, this exclusive model stands as the fastest and most powerful Jaguar ever produced. With a V8 under the bonnet making this car capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds and reaching a top speed of around 300km/h, the F-Type Project 7 is engineered for pure driving pleasure. The name “Project 7” pays homage to Jaguar’s seven victories at the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour race, with design elements inspired by the iconic 1950s D-type.
