Unique 'tow truck' to be auctioned

The auction, billed as the ultimate garage sale, features over 120 items, including cars, memorabilia, petroliana, and garagenalia. The lot will go under the hammer at a special Shannons 'Private Collector Auction' in Melbourne on October 14

The lots on offer are from the collection of Melburnian, Ron Kirwan, who spent four decades accumulating a diverse range of items, with the recurring theme of 'man cave' neon and enamel signs, fuel bowsers and Elvis/Marilyn pop culture memorabilia.

While only a handful of cars have been consigned for the auction, they are all unusual. The highlight would have to be a custom-built 1959 Holden FC 'Crewman' dual cab ute. Other light commercials consigned include a 1956 Chevrolet pickup truck, and a 'studebaker' custom pickup based on a C1987 Chevrolet

Arguably the most unusual lot consigned for this auction is a Daihatsu Midget "tow truck". This unusual single-seater (two seater versions were also available) was only sold in Japan, and fitted into a particular tax bracket in that country for small vehicles of no more than 660cc engine capacity - better known as 'Kei' cars (short for 'Keijidosha' = 'light automobile').

Believe it or not, the Midgets were built as delivery vehicles, and were available with either a tray back, or enclosed van-style body. The front mount spare wheel is a factory spec item, but the tow hook rear definitely isn't! Other custom touches on the 659cc 4-speed manual Midget include a customised interior, flashing light bar, polished wheels and custom paint with ghost flames.

Offered at No Reserve (with a guiding range of $5,000 - $10,000), the little Midget presents as a potential bargain, and could make a great promo vehicle for a wreckers or towing business.

The 'Private Collector Auction' will take place at Shannons Melbourne auction rooms, 321 Warrigal Road, Cheltenham, on Sunday October 14, from 1:00pm. For further details ahead of this auction, go to www.shannons.com.au