For the first time, Bruun Rasmussen will hold its first auction solely dedicated to classic cars and motorcycles. The premiere auction will be held on 1 October at the Haaning Collection museum in Bagsværd, just outside Copenhagen, where enthusiasts can see machines that capture the design and engineering of their eras.
Among the 25 lots, six stand out. Together, they illustrate the diversity of the motoring world, from 1930s American luxury to British small cars, Swedish elegance, German engineering and turbocharged models from the 1980s.
The oldest rarity is a 1934 Auburn 12-165 Salon Convertible, a car that is as much a work of art as a means of transport. When Auburn launched its V12 engine in 1932, it placed the marque at the top of the American market. This example has a two-tone silver and black finish that emphasises the bodywork, with a powerful twelve-cylinder engine under the bonnet. Since its restoration, the car has covered only 568 kilometres, making it one of the best-preserved models available on the market.
Three decades later, Volvo left its mark with the P1800S. The 1963 model was among the first built in Sweden after production moved from Jensen in the UK. It achieved worldwide fame in the TV series The Saint, where Roger Moore drove a white P1800. Pelle Petterson’s Italian-inspired design, combined with Volvo’s reliable engineering, has made it a much-loved Swedish classic.
From the same decade comes a car that highlights the playful side of British motoring: a 1967 Austin Mini Automatic MK1. The Mini had already transformed the car industry in 1959 with its compact size and front-wheel drive. The automatic version, however, was rare at the time, when automatic transmissions were mainly associated with large luxury cars. Well-preserved examples are now sought-after collector’s items.
The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda showcases German engineering at its finest. With its 2.8-litre engine, clean lines and light interior, combined with Paul Bracq’s design, it quickly became a symbol of elegance and sportiness. Today, the Pagoda is one of the most desirable Mercedes classics and its appeal has endured.
For those drawn to the motorsport-inspired designs of the 1980s, there is a 1982 Ford Capri Turbo Werksturbo on sale. Often described as Europe’s Mustang, the Capri enjoyed strong popularity in both Germany and the UK. The rare Werksturbo version was developed with Turbotechnik and fitted with a turbocharger, wider wings and spoilers. The result was a coupé with raw performance and a distinctly 1980s character. The example at auction is metallic green with original fabric seats.
Motorcycles are also part of the sale. A 1973 BMW R 100 offers another perspective on motoring history. This example has been rebuilt in café racer style, a form linked to the 1960s and 70s subculture in which young riders modified their bikes for speed between coffee bars. The R 100 was already a dependable motorcycle in standard form, with its boxer engine and easy handling. Here, that solid foundation is combined with a minimalist, sporty look.
Together, these six vehicles reflect almost fifty years of automotive development. They tell the story of ideals, innovation and passion, from American luxury in the 1930s to the turbocharged classics of the 1980s.
All vehicles will be on view at the preview on 27–28 September at the Haaning Collection in Bagsværd. Visitors will not only be able to see the auction lots, but also explore the museum’s collection of more than 120 classic cars, 40 motorcycles and thousands of model cars, in surroundings that also include a cinema and café. The auction itself will take place on 1 October at 6 p.m. Bids can be placed in person, by phone, in advance or online.
