Press launch Ford XR3 for sale at Barons’ Winter Warmer

The oldest Ford Escort XR3 in the UK is going under the hammer. The car, which was one of three used on the original model’s press launch, was restored in 2016. It will be offered for sale at Barons’ auction on 27 February and could fetch up to £15,000.

There are also plenty of first-time classics in the catalogue. A one-family owned 1993 Ford Fiesta Ghia with 44,000 miles on the clock looks tempting at £1000 to £2000. There’s also a no-reserve 1971 Hillman Hunter is offered at no reserve. In need of TLC, it’s a good project for anyone looking to get to grips with car restoration.

And the sale features a trio of Minis, a charming 1982 Austin example (£2500-£3500) an uncompleted Rover Mini Cooper Sport project (£2000-£3500) and a lovely, low mileage Rover Mini Cooper Sport (£4500-£6000).

A slightly more upmarket but still hands on project is this Jaguar E-type restoration project. The 1963 Jaguar E-type S1 3.8 Roadster restoration project is made up of original components that have been stored for more than 20 years. At £35,00-£45,000, it could prove a solid investment if you’re handy with spanners and a spray booth.

Another Jaguar on offer is a 1989 XJS convertible with fitted with a 5.7-litre Corvette engine in 1991. Kept in climate-controlled conditions in a private collection in the USA, it is expected to fetch £33,000-£40,000.

One of our favourite lots is 1967 Vauxhall Viva HB Super Luxury with a rare (although not perhaps desirable) automatic gearbox. With 12,500 miles on the clock, this Borg Warner 35 Super Lux is thought to be the only one left (estimate £5000-£7000). Vauxhall fans will also have their eye on a 1957 Velox E Series (estimate £10,000-£13,000).

For more information visit barons-auctions.com.