Richard Hammond Auctions Rare Cars from Personal Collection
Richard Hammond, the charismatic co-presenter of Top Gear and The Grand Tour, is set to part ways with some of his most treasured vehicles. In a move that's generating buzz among classic car enthusiasts, four cars from his personal collection will go under the hammer at the prestigious Race Retro event. This auction, organized by Iconic Auctioneers, promises to offer a glimpse into Hammond's passion for motoring history, with vehicles spanning decades of automotive excellence.
The Auction Details: What’s on Offer?
The sale is scheduled for February 21 at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, UK, as part of the Race Retro classic car show. This event draws thousands of buyers and sellers passionate about vintage and performance vehicles. Hammond's selection reflects his eclectic taste, from elegant pre-war tourers to rally-bred hot hatches.
The Star Lots: A Closer Look
Leading the lineup is the 1979 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2, meticulously restored at Hammond's own Smallest Cog workshop in Hereford. This British icon, known for its role in rallying during the 1970s and 1980s, has been brought back to showroom condition. With an estimated value of £25,000 to £30,000, it's expected to attract bids from collectors who appreciate its peppy 2.0-liter engine and sporty heritage. The Escort's restoration highlights Hammond's hands-on approach to car care, a skill honed over years of television adventures.
Another highlight is the 1933 Riley 14/6 Alpine Sports Tourer, a rare pre-war four-seater that embodies the golden age of British touring cars. Priced at £18,000 to £24,000, this vehicle features the classic open-top design that made Rileys a favorite among early 20th-century motorists. Its elegant lines and vintage charm make it a standout for those seeking a piece of motoring history.
Hammond's 1972 MGB GT holds special significance as his personal competition car and the very last vehicle he drove on Top Gear. Painted in striking blue and white, this British roadster coupe is estimated at £15,000 to £20,000. For fans of the show, it's more than just a car—it's a relic from the era when Hammond, Jeremy Clarkson, and James May redefined automotive entertainment.
Rounding out the collection is the 2006 Mini Cooper S dubbed 'Stanley,' a custom build from Hammond's DriveTribe platform. Driven by his daughter Izzy as part of a family project, this modern classic blends everyday usability with performance flair. It carries an estimate of £10,000 to £15,000, appealing to younger collectors who value personalization and provenance.
Richard Hammond: From Top Gear to Car Enthusiast Extraordinaire
Born in 1969 in Birmingham, Richard Hammond rose to fame in the early 2000s as the 'Hamster' on BBC's Top Gear. Alongside Clarkson and May, he brought humor, daring stunts, and genuine love for cars to millions of viewers across 22 series. The show's end in 2015, following Clarkson's departure, led to the trio's successful pivot to Amazon Prime's The Grand Tour, which wrapped up its fifth season in 2024.
Post-television, Hammond has channeled his expertise into entrepreneurial ventures. He co-founded DriveTribe in 2016, a digital platform for car content, and established The Smallest Cog, a restoration workshop that breathes new life into classics. These cars represent not just Hammond's personal favorites but also his commitment to preserving automotive heritage. As he explained in past interviews, 'Cars aren't just machines; they're stories on wheels.'
The decision to auction these vehicles comes at a time when the classic car market is booming in the UK. With rising interest in sustainable motoring and nostalgia-driven investments, values for well-maintained classics have surged. Experts note that celebrity-owned cars often command premiums due to their stories—Hammond's lots are no exception.
Insights from the Auction House
Rob Hubbard, managing director at Iconic Auctioneers, praised Hammond's selections: 'Richard is first and foremost a genuine car enthusiast, and this small but varied group reflects that perfectly. From pre-war touring to modern track performance, each has been selected and prepared with real care. We're thrilled to offer them at Race Retro, where knowledgeable buyers appreciate quality and provenance.'
Hubbard's comments underscore the auction's appeal. Race Retro itself is a cornerstone event for the classic car community, featuring over 120 trade stands, live demonstrations, and seminars. Attendees can expect a festive atmosphere, with Hammond's cars likely drawing crowds eager to bid on pieces of TV and motoring lore.
Why This Auction Matters for Car Lovers
For collectors, investing in Hammond's cars offers more than metal and mechanics—it's a chance to own a slice of pop culture. The MGB GT, in particular, evokes memories of Hammond's high-speed escapades, while the Riley Tourer connects to an era of unhurried road trips. In an age of electric vehicles dominating headlines, these internal combustion classics remind us of the joy in analog engineering.
Potential buyers should prepare for competition; similar lots at recent auctions have exceeded estimates. As the UK navigates post-Brexit trade and environmental regulations, classics like these could become even scarcer. Hammond's auction serves as a timely reminder of the enduring allure of British motoring icons.
Whether you're a die-hard Top Gear fan or a seasoned collector, this event is unmissable. For more on upcoming auctions and classic car tips, stay tuned to Everythiiing.com's motoring section. Who knows—your next dream garage addition might be just a bid away.
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