Bring A Trailer’s auctions continued showcasing coveted classics representing distinct automotive eras. Four recent sales — an adventure-ready 1970 VW Westfalia camper, 1968 Chevrolet Corvette, rare 1969 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV, and a remarkable 1969 Alfa Romeo GTV 1750 — encapsulated the diverse traditions, styling, and engineering that collectors crave. As enthusiasts pursue forgotten left-of-center models along with acknowledged icons, these sales demonstrated the vibrancy of today’s classic marketplace.
For both casual admirers and serious investors, tracking these sales provides invaluable insight on emerging trends and regular sellers alike. Let’s examine the unique details that positioned these four to command impressive auction results.
1970 Volkswagen Type 2 Westfalia
This vibrant 1970 Volkswagen Type 2 Westfalia, recently sold at auction for $14,250, is a charming embodiment of the iconic Westfalia pop-top Campmobile. Painted a lively lime green with a contrasting tan vinyl interior, this classic van stands out with its distinct features. Powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine coupled with a responsive four-speed manual transaxle, it offers an engaging driving experience. The exterior boasts characteristic elements such as 14″ steel wheels, Jalousie side windows, a power connection port, and a fold-out bed, making it a versatile companion for road trips.
The recent owner’s refurbishments include suspension updates, valve adjustments, and replacements of the front wheel bearings, accelerator cable, fuel pump, and turn signal switch. Despite needing attention to the exterior lighting, this Type 2 Westfalia brings back memories of days gone by. The interior is thoughtfully designed, featuring a fold-out table, storage cabinets, and a rear-facing seat, creating a cozy and functional living space. With service records and a Washington State title, this Westfalia is a delightful blend of vintage aesthetics and practicality, promising new adventures for its fortunate owner.
572-Powered 1968 Chevrolet Corvette Sportwagon 5-Speed
This extraordinary 1968 Chevrolet Corvette is a striking manifestation of automotive creativity and power. Originally a convertible, it underwent a Sportwagon conversion under previous ownership, resulting in a distinctive shooting-brake-style roof, removable roof panel, and rear fender flares. Finished in metallic maroon, this Corvette commands attention with a high-rise cowl-induction hood, fixed headlights, and chrome ribbed side-exit exhaust pipe covers. The 572ci ZZ572 V8 engine, rebuilt in 2013, ensures exhilarating performance, featuring an aluminum single-plane intake manifold and a 1,150-cfm Dominator carburetor. Paired with a Hurst-shifted Richmond Gear five-speed manual transmission, this powerhouse delivers an engaging driving experience.
The exterior showcases Series 32 Keystone 15″ wheels, unassisted four-wheel disc brakes, and a chrome split rear bumper. The black vinyl-trimmed interior features bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a well-appointed center stack with analog displays. Noteworthy details include shaved pop-up headlight covers, dual fixed headlamps, and 572 badging. This modified C3 Corvette sold at auction for $27,211, complete with build records, parts literature, period publications, and a clean New Jersey title. With a blend of unique aesthetics and high-performance components, this Sportwagon 5-Speed Corvette highlights automotive individuality and power.
1969 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV
The 1969 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV is a delightful blend of classic charm and spirited performance. Powered by a 1,275cc inline-four engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission, this Sprite exudes timeless appeal in its green exterior complemented by a black soft top and tan upholstery. Acquired by the seller in September 2020 and featured on BaT in January 2023, this Mk IV boasts distinctive features such as front disc brakes, vent windows, and a Kenwood CD stereo for a touch of modern convenience. The exterior showcases chrome bumpers with overriders, a fender-mounted antenna, and a Royal Auto Club grille badge, adding to its vintage look. Its 13” silver-finished wire wheels mounted with Suretrac Power Touring whitewall tires provide a classic touch.
Inside, the refurbished interior features bucket seats in tan upholstery, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a wood dash panel housing Smiths instrumentation. With only 7,000 miles on the odometer, this Sprite has been well-maintained, and the 1,275cc engine with dual SU carburetors ensures a spirited driving experience. Despite minor imperfections, such as a cracked dash panel, this Austin-Healey Sprite sold at auction for $12,000 and represents a well-preserved classic with a captivating blend of vintage aesthetics and enjoyable driving dynamics.
1969 Alfa Romeo GTV 1750
Fetching $34,000 at auction, the 1969 Alfa Romeo GTV 1750 is a remarkable example of Italian automotive excellence. Acquired by the seller in 2014, this classic has undergone significant enhancements, with a rebuilt 1,779cc twin-cam inline-four engine and SPICA fuel injection system, ensuring a robust and reliable performance on the road. The vibrant yellow exterior, adorned with GTA-style 15″ wheels, reflects the timeless design of the Bertone body, which was repainted under previous ownership. Notable features include four-wheel disc brakes, Bilstein shocks, Centerline springs, and a Personal steering wheel, creating an engaging driving experience.
The cabin, reupholstered in black vinyl, has classic charm with wood trim accents, vintage-look digital AM/FM stereo, and Alfa Romeo-branded door sill plates. The comprehensive restoration extends to the brake system, with replacements of ball joints, track rod joints, and rear control arm bushings. The attention to detail is evident in both aesthetics and mechanics, making this GTV 1750 a desirable collector’s piece with a rich history and a renewed lease on automotive life.
Count on Classic Auto to Cover Your Vintage Beauty
These classics, now under new ownership, embody a commitment to preserving the essence of a bygone era. Their recent journey through auctions not only highlights their timeless appeal but also signals the responsibility of their new caretakers to protect and cherish them.
For those who recognize the value of these automotive gems, the journey continues with Classic Auto Insurance. Offering premium insurance options tailored to safeguard your investment, Classic Auto Insurance provides policies customized to your needs. Whether it’s agreed-upon value, 24/7 roadside assistance, or the benefit of rollover miles, securing the best coverage for your classic is just a consultation away. Contact us today for a free quote and embark on a journey of preserving automotive history with confidence and style – 888-901-1338.
