Japanese performance classics under the hammer at Shannons

Shannons’ upcoming Melbourne auction is set to see three Japanese performance legends go under the hammer at no reserve.

Representing Subaru is arguably the most desirable of the three cars.

To the uninitiated it’s just a WRX, but this 1999 Subaru WRX STi Version V is one of only 399 coupes delivered to Australia. It’s perhaps the most desirable of these because it’s in almost immaculate condition, even with a well run-in 102,610km reading on the odometer.

The Version V was also the car which spawned the almost mythical 22B, which may be Subaru’s most beloved special edition ever.

The 2.0-litre flat four under the bonnet does however put out a respectable 206kW, the same as that of the 22B.

The Version V being offered is estimated to sell between $30,000 and $38,000, though it could end up being a no reserve bargain.

Also headed across the block in a couple of weeks’ time is a slightly less immaculate car, but one that’s even less common than the Version V.

With a slightly less pristine paintjob and what looks to be just over 147,000km on the odometer, the 1990 Toyota Celica GT-Four currently awaiting what is likely its third owner has quite a tale to tell.

Reportedly gifted to Channel 9 personality Richard Wilkins (the one who reported on national television that Jeff Goldblum was dead – he wasn’t) by Toyota, this turbocharged coupe puts out about 149kW, which is just a few kW shy of the brand’s current 86.

However, the body needs a little bit of love and attention if it’s ever going to be pristine again. There are scrape marks under the front bar and a few tears and scuffs visible inside. Thus, it’s got an estimated price of $8,000-$12,000.

Lastly, one for the old school.

A 1979 Mazda RX-7 Series 1 in purely original survivor condition is set to find a new home, showing only 48,125km on the odometer.

Shannons reckons it should pick up between $25,000 and $35,000, with, though a Series 1 sold at Shannons in Melbourne’s Autumn Classic Auction in May for $55,000.

The auction takes place in Melbourne on September 25.