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Eclectic ‘Molino’ Collection going under the hammer

24th June 2014 Print
1954 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe

An eclectic private collection of 14 classic cars and six motorcycles, spanning nearly 90 years, will be offered by Silverstone Auctions as part of its Silverstone Classic Sale on July 26th and 27th.
 
The collection, the first such to be consigned by Silverstone Auctions, is currently owned by well-known and highly successful Midland's motor industry character, Mike Hewitt. Since retiring in 2011, he has spent his time acquiring and fully restoring a wide variety of cars and motorcycles that are now offered for sale at Silverstone circuit.
 
Each of the cars and bikes, all with their own story to tell, were handpicked by Mike for either their iconic status in the motor industry or simply for happy memories in his life. It contains rare models from marques such as Fiat, Porsche, Alvis and MG.
 
One of the most amazing restorations has been undertaken on a 1954 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe, estimated at between £75,000 and £90,000. Having been bought 12 months ago at the Silverstone Classic Sale 2013, the car has been totally and personally transformed by Mike and taken back to its original black paintwork.
 
Another car personally restored by Mike is a stunning 1935 Fiat 508 Copa D'Oro Mille Miglia Spyder, estimated at between £80,000 and £100,000. Upon its arrival in the UK, the car was subject to a complete chassis-up restoration, including an engine rebuild. Following the work it received a prestigious invite to compete in the Mille Miglia.
 
Topping the bill in the collection is a rare 1940 Alvis 12/70 Competition, estimated at between £100,000 and £120,000. This Alvis was raced in national hill climbs and international races from 2007 by the much respected late Robin Everall. He won at Mallory Park, Silverstone and Prescott and in 2009 won the 'Ruth Holbert Memorial Trophy', the top Alvis racing award, with a record number of championship points.
 
Commenting on the collection, Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “We’re very proud to be offering this, our first ever private collection, for auction and to play a part in the cars’ histories. What’s even better is that the cars appeal to such a variety of tastes.”
 
As well as classic cars six motorcycles will be offered including a very rare 1967 Greeves Silverstone Road-Racer, estimated at between £4,000 and £5,000 and one of only 19 left in existence.
 
Nick added, “It would be fantastic for this collection to stay together although buyers are welcome to bid and drive away on any number of the cars on offer.”
 
For more information on the collection, visit silverstoneauctions.com/the-molino-collection.

More Photos - Click to Enlarge

1954 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe