FJ Holden panel van tops Burns & Co’s April auction

The April edition of Burns & Co’s Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction saw more than 60 lots - covering cars, motorcycles and selected memorabilia - go under the hammer. And while this auction boasted the variety and high quality of consignments that’s typical of Burns & Co., the top seller was something of a surprise.

In an auction that included HSV sedans and coupes, Sandmans, GT Falcon replicas, HG and HJ Monaros, a Jaguar XJS V12 convertible and Mercedes-AMG sedan, a humble FJ Holden panel van achieved the best sale price.

One of around 8,000 panel vans built on the FJ platform, what made this particular example stand out was its remarkable condition, with Burns & Co. describing it as the best example they’ve ever offered.

Thanks to a comprehensive, no-expense-spared restoration, this 1956 FJ panel van looked as good as the day it left the factory. Specification was factory, too, with features and fittings authentic to its build year.

From the 132.5ci (2.17-litre) six cylinder ‘grey motor’ and three-speed column-shift manual, to the 6-volt electrics, this panel van was kept completely stock. The commitment to 1956 authenticity meant neither indicators or seatbelts were fitted, and while the radio is period correct, it would have been an extravagance on a working vehicle like this back in the day.

Finished in cream with a red vinyl interior, the odometer reading of 17,011 suggests minimal mileage since the restoration was completed. A provided photo album showed the extent of work done, with the auction listing adding that this panel van was a winner of multiple ‘Best FJ’ awards.

This classic Holden generated considerable interest ahead of the auction on Sunday, 13 April, with pre-bidding reaching $75,000. On the day, two online bidders fought it out, constantly one-upping each other over a short, but aggressive period before the hammer fell at $105,000. With buyer’s premium, the final price for the panel van came to $115,395.

Clearance rate from this auction was 96 per cent. For more details on Burns & Co’s April Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction, go to: burnsandcoauctions.com.au