1989 Desande Caprice convertible

Introduced at the Geneva Salon in 1980, the Desande Caprice was the brainchild of Belgian designer Danny G. Vandezande (hence Desande). Inspired by Mercedes-Benz's 500K / 540K Roadsters, the newcomer was based around a separate chassis fitted with independent front suspension, disc/drum brakes, and power-assisted steering. Featuring a choice of Ford or Chevrolet V8 engines allied to an automatic transmission, the two-seater sported a wooden dashboard and door cappings, a luxurious leather interior, air-conditioning, and a snug fitting hood. Mr. Vandezande was of the opinion that England was the only place where "the skills to build a classic car conforming to modern standards were sufficiently available" so Grand Prix Metalcraft Ltd. of London were tasked with coachbuilding and fully trimming his new creation. A limited production run of 250 cars was initially envisaged although, how many Caprice Roadsters were actually built is unknown.

This particular example has formed part of an extensive London-based private collection since 6th June 2002 and came to prominence when the Chelsea based, Middle Eastern Sheikh who owned the collection encountered some temporary financial difficulties and his cars were seized. However the car has clear title (by order of the High Court) and an HPI check reveals that (a) the Desande has had four former keepers and (b) it is not recorded on their stolen, finance, security watch or insurance write off databases. Accompanying invoices show that over the past fourteen years 'D19 AAA' has been treated to a refurbished radiator, new gearbox/back axle gaskets and replacement shock absorbers (2002), new fuse boxes (2005), refurbished Holley carburettor (2012), fresh starter motor / alternator / torsion bar rubbers / engine mounts (2013) and a brake system overhaul (2013). It was seemingly last serviced by The Chelsea Workshop at an unwarranted 8,247 miles in July 2013 (c.200 miles ago), Delightfully finished in Red over White with Red leather upholstery and a Tan hood, this eye-catching, Chevy-powered, retro pastiche Roadster will have a fresh MOT Certificate by the time of sale.

This is not a kit car but a well-conceived, superbly engineered, well-finished, sports car and you are unlikely to see another.