Collectors have the opportunity to acquire three Australian muscle car gems at realistic prices at Shannons Sydney Auction on Monday February 9.

While HT Monaro GTS 307 prices rose around two years again response to demand for the larger-engined GTS 327 and GTS 350 ‘Bathurst’ models, they still represent keen buying amongst collectors, with condition and provenance being the most sought after qualities.

With two owners from new, matching numbers and still gleaming from a meticulous ground-up restoration, the rare Platinum Silver with Sandalwood trim 1969 model GTS 307 coupe being offered at the auction ticks all the important boxes.

Featuring automatic transmission and desirable period accessories including a NASCO gear lock, Shannons say the Monaro’s exceptional condition would satisfy the most fastidious enthusiast. It is expected to sell in the $65,000-$75,000 range – around the same price as a very well maintained 1981 Ferrari 308 GTS ‘Targa’ Coupe.

Chrysler enthusiasts on the other hand will be drawn to a rare eye-catching, three speed manual 1971 Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T coupe – one of only 20 Magenta E37-optioned Chargers built.

Initially used as a demonstrator by the Glenn Innes, NSW Chrysler dealer, the Charger was refreshed in the late 1980s with new paintwork. Then, after it spent most of the 1990s in storage, the car’s fourth owner since 2000 rebuilt the car’s straight-six engine with its triple Weber 45DCOE carburettors to E38 ‘Bathurst’ specification.

Equally desirable for Torana XU-1 enthusiasts is the one-owner March the 17th green 1972 Holden LJ Torana GT-R XU-1 sedan being offered in very original and unrestored condition.

Used briefly for hillclimbing in the 1970s, the all-matching-numbers Holden has been on blocks for several years, occasionally being driven to keep everything working.

The paint is still factory apart from the driver's side front guard, which was damaged when the car kit a kangaroo.

Shannons expect both the Charger R/T E37 and GT-R XU-1 to sell in the $45,000-$55,000 price range.

The muscle cars are amongst 26 vehicles in the February 9 auction, six of which will be offered for sale unreserved, including a desirable 1974 Holden HJ Monaro GTS 4.2 V8 sedan $3,000-$6,000), a 1975 Alfa Romeo 2000 Spider ($14,000-$18,000) and a 1969 Rover 3500 V8 sedan ($3,000-$5,000).

The auction also contains 22 memorabilia lots, including classic petrol pumps, enamel signs and five original black and white enamel NSW number plates.