The sale covers the full breadth of the market, from restored classics to barn finds and restoration projects, in front of a buying field that spans the UK and overseas.
Entries range from pre-war and post-war classics to cars from the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Good cars make good money here, whatever their type: a 2009 Land Rover Defender 90 with just 135 miles on the clock sold for £46,000.
Buying a classic car
Each catalogue goes online ahead of the sale with descriptions and photographs, and you can bid in the room, by phone or online. With a classic, condition and originality decide the value, so view in person where you can, look closely at what is original and what has been restored, and check the paperwork before you bid. The buyer's premium on classic car lots is 6% plus VAT, so factor that in when you set your limit.
Selling a classic car
A single car, or a small group, is entered into the Cambridge Vintage Sale, in front of buyers across the UK and overseas. A larger single-owner collection can be sold on its own ground instead, on-site, the same way Cheffins runs its vintage dispersals.
Pre-sale appraisals are free, with formal written valuations arranged separately. Tom Godsmark ANAVA and Ted Shepherd look after the classic and vintage car side, and can value a car properly and advise on the right route, whether it is one car or a whole collection.
Why Cheffins for classic cars?
Cars sell here without the high minimum reserves common at the specialist classic car houses, which suits owners who want a car sold rather than held back for a headline figure. With around 30,000 registered bidders in more than 50 countries behind the sale, a well-presented car with the right history tends to find its level, whoever is bidding on the day.
Classic car auction FAQs
Where can I buy classic cars at auction?
Classic cars sell through the Cambridge Vintage Sale, the collective auction held three times a year at Sutton, near Ely. You can bid in the room, by phone or online, and registration is free.
How do I sell my classic car at auction with Cheffins?
A single car suits the Cambridge Vintage Sale, while a larger collection can be sold on-site at its own location. Pre-sale appraisals are free, and Tom Godsmark and Ted Shepherd can advise on the right route.
Does Cheffins sell barn finds and restoration projects?
Yes. Alongside restored and running classics, the sale regularly carries barn finds and unfinished projects, spanning the pre-war era through to the classics of the 1980s.
What is the buyer's premium on classic car lots?
The premium on classic car lots is 6% plus VAT. Check the payment and collection terms for the specific sale before you bid.
Related sections
Classic & Vintage Motorcycles · Automobilia & Petroliana · Trucks & Commercial Vehicles · Vintage Tractors · Vintage & Classic Auctions · Cambridge Machinery Sales · On-site Auctions · Machinery & Vintage Auctions
Ready to buy or sell a classic car?
Browse the next Cambridge Vintage Sale, or call the vintage team on 01353 777767 (option 2) or email [email protected] to talk through selling a single car or a collection.