With collector cars from the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s on the rise, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find an exciting modern classic for the sort of money one would normally spend on a used hatchback. However, it’s not all doom and gloom, because Historics Auctioneers have packed their upcoming Summer Serenade sale on July 19th with affordable classics. Topping the list of cars that had the Classic Driver office reaching for their wallets and negotiating with their loved ones was this 1992 Venturi 260. Estimated to only fetch around 16,000 pounds, this French Ferrari might offer the most bang for your buck you’ll get this decade.
Founded in 1984 by French engineers Claude Poiraud and Gérard Godfroy as MVS (Manufacture de Voitures de Sport), the Monaco-based firm was in business for 16 years before declaring bankruptcy in 2000, by which time they had created their fair share of gorgeous poster cars. The 260 was one of their earlier creations, featuring a 2.8-litre turbocharged V6 — also found in Alpines of the era — mated to a Renault gearbox. This mid-engined fibreglass-bodied sports car produced 256 horsepower, boasted a top speed of 163 mph, and could reportedly sprint from 0 to 60 in the mid-5 second range.
During their 16 years of business, Venturi produced a mere 750 cars in total, making this 260 far rarer than almost anything else available for this price. Currently showing just 24,415 km, this 260 has been driven sparingly during its three-plus decades on the road. Finished in the marvellous combination of burgundy metallic over a cream parchment interior with wood trim, this Venturi is showing signs of its age, but with a recent advisory-free MOT it presents an incredible value proposition for the discerning enthusiast.
Datchet, 19 Jul
