4x4s feature at Shannons Winter Auction

The most recent timed online auction conducted by Shannons had the largest complement of four-wheel drives yet seen in this format, with nine vehicles on offer, covering a diverse range of makes, models and eras.

Held from 2 to 9 August, Shannons Timed Online Winter Auction saw total sales of $11.2 million, and while the usual classic Aussie muscle cars and prestige marques were among the top sellers, off-roaders saw some strong results, too.

Best of the 4x4 bunch was a 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero Evo, the specially trimmed and equipped version of the NL Series SWB Pajero designed for the Dakar Rally. A total of 2,500 units of the Pajero Evo were built to homologate the vehicle for Dakar, most of which were sold in Japan but have since found their way to other countries.

All were powered by a DOHC 3.5-litre V6, but only 500 were fitted with manual transmissions, while other features included improved approach and departure angles, underbody protection and larger wheels and tyres.

Two examples of the Pajero Evo were offered at the auction, both with automatic transmissions, and while one was passed in, the other sold for $60,500.

Next best was a 1950 Land Rover Series I 80 that had been fully restored and finished in traditional Ascot Green with a new canvas top. Mechanically authentic and still in very good condition post-resto, this early Landie sold within estimate for $43,000.

For something restored but a little newer, a rare 1977 Range Rover 'Suffix D' was also offered. The most comfortable and capable vehicle of its time, the first-generation Range Rover combined V8 power, a four-speed gearbox and two-speed transfer case with long-travel suspension for comfort.

The example auctioned, finished in Sahara Dust with a Camel vinyl interior, fell short of its estimate but still sold for a healthy $27,800.

Another highlight from this auction was a 1993 Toyota LandCruiser GXL 80 Series that was in very good condition overall and still had its factory bullbar, driving lights and cloth interior.

Finished in maroon with a grey interior, and with the 4.5-litre straight six petrol engine matched to a four-speed automatic, this FZJ80 ‘Cruiser sold just within estimate for $28,444.

Other results of note included $14,000 for a 1969 Land Rover SIIA 109 wagon, $11,797 for a 1981 Land Rover SIII 109 wagon with a V8 and $11,500 for a 1967 Land Rover SII 109 ute that had formerly been in use with a Victorian rural fire brigade.

While outside the scope of four-wheel drives, it should also be mentioned that a 1981 Leyland Moke Californian consigned for this auction sold for a remarkable $48,600, which Shannons are claiming as a new record price.

For more details from this auction, go to: shannons.com.au