The auction, billed as the ultimate garage sale, features over 120 items, including cars, memorabilia, petroliana, and garagenalia. The lot will go under the hammer at a special Shannons 'Private Collector Auction' in Melbourne on October 14
The lots on offer are from the collection of Melburnian, Ron Kirwan, who spent four decades accumulating a diverse range of items, with the recurring theme of 'man cave' neon and enamel signs, fuel bowsers and Elvis/Marilyn pop culture memorabilia.
While only a handful of cars have been consigned for the auction, they are all unusual. The highlight would have to be a custom-built 1959 Holden FC 'Crewman' dual cab ute. Other light commercials consigned include a 1956 Chevrolet pickup truck, and a 'studebaker' custom pickup based on a C1987 Chevrolet
Arguably the most unusual lot consigned for this auction is a Daihatsu Midget "tow truck". This unusual single-seater (two seater versions were also available) was only sold in Japan, and fitted into a particular tax bracket in that country for small vehicles of no more than 660cc engine capacity - better known as 'Kei' cars (short for 'Keijidosha' = 'light automobile').
Believe it or not, the Midgets were built as delivery vehicles, and were available with either a tray back, or enclosed van-style body. The front mount spare wheel is a factory spec item, but the tow hook rear definitely isn't! Other custom touches on the 659cc 4-speed manual Midget include a customised interior, flashing light bar, polished wheels and custom paint with ghost flames.
Offered at No Reserve (with a guiding range of $5,000 - $10,000), the little Midget presents as a potential bargain, and could make a great promo vehicle for a wreckers or towing business.
The 'Private Collector Auction' will take place at Shannons Melbourne auction rooms, 321 Warrigal Road, Cheltenham, on Sunday October 14, from 1:00pm. For further details ahead of this auction, go to www.shannons.com.au
