American soft tops to feature at Shannons 2015 Melbourne Winter Auction

The quartet is led by a beautifully preserved 1958 Cadillac Series 62. Discovered after long-term storage in the USA, the pale blue American beauty was originally a New York car that had been garage-stored there for around 30 years before being discovered and shipped to Australia by the previous owner.

 

After arrival, this highly desirable Series 62 convertible underwent mechanical recommissioning, with receipts totalling $51,000 on file. Work included a full overhaul of the engine and drivetrain, rebuilt suspension, while a new convertible hood was fitted in 2014.

 

The owner retained the Eldorado's original pale blue and cream upholstery, preserving the car's lovely patina. Shannons expect this American dream car to sell in the $40,000-$50,000 range.

 

For Chevrolet lovers, there's a beautiful example of a 1957 Bel Air convertible, finished in red with white convertible top.

 

A car that wasn't overly loved when new, the '57 Chev is now one of the most popular and sought after examples of 1950s Americana. This restored LHD car has been upgraded with new, matching red and white vinyl trim and carpets. Being a Bel Air convertible ups the ante and the desirability of this car, which Shannons estimate will eclipse the Cadillac to sell in the $50,000-$60,000 range.

 

Also from General Motors is a vast 1965 Pontiac Catalina convertible that is expected to sell in the $30,000-$40,000 range. Finished in white with black trim, this very stylish, but more conservatively presented example has a black power convertible top, while its 389-cid V8 has been optioned with triple downdraft carburettors.

 

Shannons consider the jewel in the crown for the July 13 auction will be a beautiful, restored 1961 Corvette 'Fuelie' convertible. With its 283ci V8 fitted with Rochester fuel injection, this 315hp (235kW) beast was the most powerful Corvette you could buy in 1961.

 

Finished in black with a silver scallop, white wall tyres and contrasting red vinyl interior, this Corvette also comes with a rare removable factory hardtop in matching black. Shannons have placed a pre-auction estimate of $70,000-$80,000 on this very desirable and collectable American classic.

 

Shannons 2015 Melbourne Winter Classic Auction will take place at Shannons Melbourne auction rooms, 321 Warrigal Rd. Cheltenham, with the first lot to cross the blocks at approximately 7:00PM. For more information, go to:shannons.com.au