Market Finds – Brazilian beauties

Cinematic landscapes, miles of golden beaches, rich cultural diversity and general joie de vivre – Brazil’s got everything, even an interesting automotive heritage. We’ve perused the Classic Driver Market for a selection of cars either produced in – or with a close connection to – the Latin giant...

1979 Bianco S

Operating from 1976 to 1979, the Brazilian manufacturer Bianco’s existence was short-lived. Its flagship model was the ‘S’, of which 186 were sold at the 1976 New York Motor Show alone, where it was first revealed. We can appreciate why… This example of the striking handmade sports car has been preserved in largely original condition, and is estimated to fetch 10,000-20,000 US dollars atAuctions America’s Fort Lauderdale sale on 1-3 April 2016. A lesser-known South American curio, we think its European-esque lines are very well proportioned. 

2013 VW T2 Kombi Last Edition

The Volkswagen Kombi’s goliath 56-year production run ended in 2013. To celebrate, the final 600 T2s received the special ‘Final Edition’ treatment, featuring commemorative numbered plaques, retro blue-and-white paintwork, and ‘Atlanta Blue’ vinyl upholstery with branded curtain fasteners. More than 1.5 million Kombis were produced in Brazil, making it VW’s most successful model built in the South American country. This low-mileage example is currently for sale in Monaco – the perfect starting point for a month-long jaunt across Europe with the family… 

1972 Puma GT

The Brazilian manufacturer Puma’s popularity could predominantly be attributed to the country’s ultra-high import tariffs, which forced natives to buy cars built locally. Based on Volkswagen underpinnings, the sports cars were rear-wheel drive with the engines mounted at the rear, and delivered either as complete cars or in kit form – the latter usually for the ease of exportation to countries such as the USA. Aesthetically they were rather pretty, taking in our eyes taking clear inspiration from both the Lotus Europa and the Datsun 240Z. Estimated at just 10,000-15,000 US dollars, this restored 1972 Puma GT is arguably one of the finest examples available. It’ll go under the hammer at Auctions America’s Fort Lauderdale sale on 1-3 April 2016. 

1956 Maserati 200Si

It might have been built over 9,000 kilometres away from Brazil but, as its yellow and green colour scheme suggests, this Maserati 200Si holds a strong connection to the South American country. Born a 150S, the car was ordered from the factory by Juan Manuel Fangio’s manager in 1957, for a wealthy Brazilian amateur driver to race in the 1000km of Buenos Aires. In accordance with a new set of sporting regulations, it was converted into a 200Si – and duly painted in the Brazilian national colours – prior to being delivered. Though it failed to finish the race, chassis #2408 enjoyed a busy competition career in South America. Now ready to race, we’re sure it would prove a ray of Brazilian sunshine on any European historic racing grid. 

Photos: Auctions America, Rémi Dargegen for DG, Will Stone Historic Cars

Numerous classic and modern cars are added to the Classic Driver Market every week. You can find them all listed here.