A 1967 11-window microbus has set a new Australian record for the model, fetching a whopping $158,000 at Shannons' Summer Classic Auction in Melbourne.
The split-screen bus had only been driven in fine weather since its full restoration, and looked as good underneath as it did on top. Keen bidding quickly pushed the price far in excess of its $60-80,000 estimate. The two-owner, Australian-built commercial was the subject of fierce competition between two bidders from the floor, prompting rapturous applause when the hammer finally fell at nearly double the VW's upper estimate.
"This is the best result for an 11-window Kombi at auction in Australia," said Shannons' national auction manager Christophe Boribon. "It has only been surpassed by a 1960 model 23-window Samba that sold for $202,000 at Shannons earlier this year."
The Volkswagen's performance was matched by a 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3, which came from a private collection to almost double its pre-sale estimate, fetching $50,500.
"The price this car achieved is an indication of the true importance of these great cars internationally," said Boribon.
A 1989 BMW M3 continued the Teutonic theme, selling for $53,500 despite being converted to right-hand-drive, while a 1929 Rolls-Royce 20/20HP wearing Australian coachwork by Martin & King sold for $101,500 following a lengthy spell in storage.
