Iconic South African classic cars on auction at Festival of Motoring
By Double Apex
Rospa Imports, which is best known for importing JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) vehicles into South Africa, is opening a new chapter by hosting its very first auction event.
The Rospa Imports Homologation and Classic Car auction will take place at the South African Festival of Motoring on Sunday 1 September 2024.
The roster of cars on offer will be of interest to South African petrolheads, especially motorsport fans. Among the list are a number of SA-specific high-performance derivatives.
Many were created with the specific intent of meeting homologation requirements. This allowed the respective OEMs to compete in various circuit racing categories. Among the list is the Alfa Romeo GTV6, BMW 325iS and V8-powered Ford Capri Perana and Sierra XR8.
Other, more limited, SA-exclusive models on offer include a BMW 333i and 745i. The latter, famously, formed the basis for the only BMW-sanctioned 7 Series racecar in the world. The 745i racers were built and raced by the late Tony Viana. This express saloon shares its engine with the legendary BMW M1, which will also feature at the auction.
Other notable additions to the two-dozen strong list include an E46 BMW M3 CSL, a Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution, a pair of BMW Isettas, a ‘pillarless’ E30 BMW 325i Cabriolet, a pair of BMW 850is, a Mk2 Golf GTI and a classic Volkswagen 21-window bus.
“We are thrilled at the prospect of hosting our very first classic and sportscar auction. Our typical sales process is a bit longer. We usually consult with clients here in SA and source their dream cars from abroad. We will be selling many sought-after cars in quick succession at the auction, which really ramps up excitement levels,” said Himal Paul, owner of Rospa Imports.
“It’s not often one has the opportunity to see this many rare and collectible cars in one place. This is a treat for any enthusiast, but to be able buy one right there on the spot is going to be a real dream come true for many. Or, who knows, maybe one individual may take all of them to start an instant collection… we have no idea how this will play out. Whatever happens, we are enthusiastically anticipating the event.”
The Rospa Imports Homologation and Classic Car auction will take place from 13:00 at Kyalami on 1 September 2024. Interested parties can view the full list of cars and register their interest here:
Double Apex