An electrifying blend of power, provenance and pedigree will headline H&H Classics’ upcoming auction on Wednesday 25th June, as the revered auction house takes over the legendary Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire for the very first time.
Known for its demanding test tracks and secretive prototype development, Millbrook provides a fitting backdrop for a truly formidable roster of high-performance icons spanning over three decades—from brutish 1980s rally heroes to sleek 21st-century Italian exotics. The Millbrook Sale promises to be a landmark moment in the collector car calendar.
From the Tarmac to the Auction Block
Among the standout entries is a 1980 Ford Escort RS2000 that takes no prisoners. Built as a lightweight rally weapon and housing a formidable 450bhp Cosworth YB engine, this machine has performance credentials to rival many modern supercars. Crafted with the help of renowned builder Harvey Gibbs, it carries an estimate of £44,000–£48,000, though the vendor estimates replicating the build today would cost over £80,000.
Damian Jones, Director at H&H Classics, remarked:
“These high-performance motors couldn’t be more at home than at this famous automotive proving ground which has seen many awesome cars put through their paces over the years.”
Legends of the 1980s
A curated throwback to the golden age of analogue driving continues with the 1986 Ferrari 328 GTS—a Targa-topped stunner forever immortalised by its role in pop culture. This particular example is finished in a tasteful Bianco over Rosso combination and shows just 42,000 miles on the odometer. With a guide price of £60,000–£65,000, it’s a captivating proposition for enthusiasts seeking a slice of Maranello magic.
1990s Icons: From Stuttgart to Detroit
Representing Porsche’s final flourish in the transaxle era is a 1992 Porsche 944 S2 SE. One of just 14 ‘SE’ specification cars built to order by Porsche UK—and now one of only six known survivors—it underwent a meticulous restoration by Rennsport in 2017. With an estimate of £28,000–£34,000, it’s a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most coveted 944s in existence.
American muscle also joins the line-up in the form of a 1995 Dodge Viper R/T 10 Roadster. Built to European specification, this V10-powered brute wears a 320km/h speedometer and shows a mere 9,000km from new. Estimated at £55,000–£65,000, it’s an audacious alternative to more traditional European fare.
But for those with a soft spot for British muscle, the 1997 Aston Martin Vantage V550 may well steal the show. With a limited production of fewer than 239 units and a staggering 550bhp twin-supercharged V8, this example is uniquely finished in McLaren Carbon Metallic—a bespoke nod to the first owner’s McLaren F1. With an estimate of £140,000–£170,000, this is more than a car; it’s a statement of intent.
21st-Century Drama: The Final Gallardo
Rounding off the auction is a 2013 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, one of the final examples of the iconic model line. Finished in Nero Serapis metallic black with Arancio Borealis accents on the brake calipers and interior stitching, this facelift model blends aggression with elegance. Estimated at £65,000–£75,000, it’s a stunning modern classic with just enough restraint to wear its badge with dignity.
The Verdict
With such a rich and varied catalogue of low-mileage, collector-grade cars, the Millbrook Sale is shaping up to be a banner event for H&H Classics.
As Jones concludes:
“It’s rare to see such a breadth of low-mileage, well-preserved performance cars all in one place. This auction is shaping up to be one of the highlights of our year – and I can think of few better places to hold it than at one of the UK’s most legendary testing grounds.”
Collectors and enthusiasts eager to review the full line-up can browse the online catalogue ahead of the auction at www.handh.co.uk. With bidding opening on Wednesday 25th June, the only question left is: which icon will you take home?
