An elegant cherry red and cream coloured Rolls-Royce, which was previously owned by Lady Nancy Astor, sold at Bonhams in Arizona yesterday evening (January 17) for $181,000. The sale price represents an impressive 29.3% increase on the Roller's $140,000 high estimate.
 The luxurious car was fitted with all mod cons, including an early radio in the plush back compartment |
It is the latest example of the strength of the classic car market, with values growing by 13.4% between December 2011 and December 2012 according to the Hagerty Blue Chip classic car index.
Freddie Mercury's Rolls-Royce also sold with an impressive increase this month, bringing £74,000 ($119,401) - 572.7% over its £11,000 top-end valuation.
The late Nancy Astor remains a controversial figure, having sympathised with the Nazi party before the outbreak of world war two. Her luxurious automobile was commissioned in 1935 and, at her request, featured a raft of modern flourishes, including a very early car radio in the back compartment.
Bonhams' motoring specialist Rupert Banner told the Daily Mail newspaper before the sale: "Lady Astor was well known for her wealth and her ability to purchase these very extravagant things.
"This Rolls-Royce was pretty much one of the best cars money could buy back in 1935 and this vehicle was the ultimate luxury of its day.
"This would not have been used to drive around town."
Symbols of comfort, elegance and luxury, classic cars continue to fascinate collectors with their aesthetic beauty and historical importance. For more information on the investment market surrounding these magnificent vehicles please see the Paul Fraser Collectibles free guide to investing in classic cars.
For more results from the sale, check back with us soon.
