AUCTION ACTION

THE AUCTION WORLD IS EVER-CHANGING AS VALUES FLUCTUATE, IN THESE INTERESTING AND CHALLENGING TIMES. HERE ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS

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MITSUBISHI CORDIA GSR

Mitsubishi launched the Cordia liftback in late 1983. It enjoyed a five-year, three series lifespan and was a popular choice among young buyers seeking hatchback practicality and driving thrills. The Cordia GSR played a starring role in the first Australian Grand Prix held in Adelaide, being used (and abused) in the Pro-Am celebrity race in 1985. Often overlooked by the Starion, prices have remained persistently low, but with less cars to choose from as time marches on, it's just a matter of time before things look up. Snaffling one shouldn't set you back more than 10 grand for one requiring TLC and around fifty per cent more should snare you a goody tidy example.

1978 HOLDEN HZ GTS

Sold! $84,800 CHICANE AUCTIONS (AUS)

THE HZ GTS was introduced in 1977 and as the spiritual successor to the Monaro GTS, it blended performance with family-luxury. This genuine GTS is in its original Palais White with Buckskin interior. Underneath is Radial-Tuned Suspension and four-wheel discs, a first for both on the GTS. Under the bonnet is its original 308ci V8, tied to an M21 four-speed manual and LSD. Subject to a no-expense-spared resto, the HZ GTS holds a unique place in Holden history as the last of the big, V8-powered sports sedans of the 1970s.

1995 HONDA NSX-R

Sold! A$546,000 BROADARROW (USA)

THE HONDA Ayrton Senna helped develop is now a high-priced modern classic, after dipping to as low as fifty grand in Australia a few years back. Not anymore. With less than 39,000km on the clock, until 2024 it had the one owner. It is one of a mere 483 NA1generation NSX-Rs produced dubbed by Honda as the "pure sports model" and finished in Berlina black with red alcantara upholstery and, of course, it's a matching-numbers car. It has also been upgraded with the rare NA2 Type-R six-speed manual gearbox.