Classics beat sale estimates

There was spirited bidding for the 1990 Citroen 2CV6 at the Sydney auction. Photo / Supplied

Two vastly different, air-cooled classic vehicles have attracted worldwide interest at auction across the Tasman, selling for around twice pre-sale estimates.

An original two-cylinder 1990 Citroen 2CV6 Charleston sedan with 23,500km on the clock set an Australian record when it was knocked down for A$40,000 ($51,300), more than double its guiding range of A$12,000-A$16,000.

At the other extreme of the technical spectrum, a rare three-headlight 1963 Czechoslovakian Tatra 603 Series saloon powered by a rear-mounted 2.5-litre, air-cooled all-aluminium V8 engine, sold to an enthusiast in Germany for A$38,000, against its guiding range of A$16,000-A$22,000.

Both vehicles were pursued vigorously by phone and floor bidders representing collectors and enthusiasts around Australia and beyond.

A restored 1973 Holden LJ Torana XU-1 sedan fetched A$95,000, while the "last of the Holden Monaros" - a 1976 HX LE Coupe - made A$35,000 after the hammer.

A 1971 Jensen Interceptor Mk3 coupe sold for A$28,200, a 1955 Morgan Plus 4 Roadster for A$25,800, and a 1987 BMW M5 sedan for A$24,600.