167 classic, collector, and performance cars go under the hammer in the auction house’s biggest-ever sale
H&H Classics is preparing to make history at its spiritual home in Buxton this October, hosting its largest-ever sale at the Pavilion Gardens. On Wednesday, 15 October, a record 167 classic, collector, and performance cars—collectively valued at more than £2.5 million—will cross the auction block, marking a milestone moment in the auction house’s three-decade legacy at the venue.
The Autumn Sale promises one of the most diverse line-ups in H&H’s history, spanning everything from Edwardian rarities to mid-century icons and modern classics. Among the entries, 39 vehicles will be offered with no reserve, giving enthusiasts a rare opportunity to secure a potential bargain from an eclectic selection.
The headline act: a rare and desirable Jaguar E-Type
Topping the catalogue is a 1961 Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Series 1 ‘Flat Floor’ Roadster—an early and highly sought-after example of Britain’s most celebrated sports car. Estimated between £80,000 and £90,000, this right-hand-drive ‘home market’ car is notable for being the 164th Roadster ever produced, retaining its original chassis, engine, and cylinder head numbers.
“The Flat Floor E-Type represents the genesis of Jaguar’s most iconic model,” said an H&H specialist. “Cars like this are becoming increasingly scarce in original, matching-number form, and it’s exactly the kind of collector-grade example that defines a landmark sale such as this.”
From Edwardian endurance to interwar innovation
The auction’s depth is further underscored by the inclusion of some exceptional pre-war and veteran motorcars. A 1902 Arrol Johnston 10/12hp Dogcart—one of only eight believed to have survived—is expected to fetch between £70,000 and £90,000. Known to have taken part in at least one London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, it represents a piece of British motoring heritage dating back more than a century.
Equally captivating is a 1921 Horstman 10½hp Super Sports, the only known surviving example of its type. Estimated at £25,000–£35,000, it offers collectors the chance to acquire an incredibly rare artefact from one of Britain’s lesser-known manufacturers, believed to have produced only a handful of vehicles between 1914 and 1929.
A rich mix for every collector
Jaguar emerges as the most represented marque in the sale, with 24 examples set to go under the hammer, followed closely by Mercedes-Benz with 15 lots. Among the Jaguars is a particularly charming 1956 XK140 Fixed Head Coupé, estimated between £28,000 and £34,000. This right-hand-drive home-market car has been in the same family since 1965 and remains one of just 843 built to this specification—a true time capsule of mid-century British craftsmanship.
No-reserve treasures and hidden gems
Among the 39 no-reserve lots, a few standouts are expected to draw significant attention. These include a 1931 Plymouth P.A. in rare right-hand-drive configuration, powered by a 2.2-litre ‘Iron Dome’ four-cylinder engine; a 1967 Austin Vanden Plas Princess Limousine that has remained with its current owner for nearly half a century; and a 1998 Suzuki Super Carry TX—an unlikely modern cult favourite following its cameo in the hit TV series Brassic.
“Such a large assortment of no-reserve models is a real opportunity for classic car enthusiasts to add a potential bargain to their collection,” said Colette McKay, Managing Director at H&H Classics. “We’re incredibly proud of the fantastic mix of cars on offer and look forward to welcoming everyone to the sale, where there’s truly something to suit every taste and budget.”
A tradition of excellence at Buxton
The Pavilion Gardens in Buxton has served as H&H Classics’ adopted home for more than 30 years, with over 6,000 cars sold there—collectively worth more than £75 million. McKay reflected on the venue’s significance:
“The Pavilion Gardens holds a special place in our hearts. To host our largest-ever sale here, with such an extraordinary range of vehicles, is both an honour and a testament to the enduring passion within the classic car community.”
Viewing and bidding information
All lots will be available for public viewing at the Pavilion Gardens from 1pm on Tuesday, 14 October, and from 9am on sale day, Wednesday, 15 October. The auction begins at 12pm, with bidding available in person, online, by telephone, or via commission bid.
