PEDAL CARS INSIGHT
The growing popularity of pedal cars paused during the two world wars while the demand for metal precluded their manufacture.
In the 1970s they were increasingly made out of plastic (as with so many things of the time), somewhat diminishing the appeal to collectors, many of whom were present for this bonanza of pedalpowered automobilia. “Pedal cars have a huge following and they always go very well,” says Toby Service of Brightwells auctioneers. “It’s extraordinary to see so many in one place. I’ve only seen one collection bigger than this in my 17 years”. Also extraordinary was a collection of model planes, many of them radio-controlled and large enough to need the hangar space of a domestic garage. Most spectacular was a huge Hercules bomber, a bargain at £896. Still, all lots found homes, underlining the appeal of machines that their collectors can neither drive nor fly. L
TRI U M PH TR3
M O RGAN 3 WH E E LE R
£1064 This impressive Triumph is almost big enough for an adult to enter, although battery life (it’s electric) would then be further curtailed by the extra weight.
£1568 A miniature of the real thing and it’s made by Morgan. This beauty is electric powered and the body is crafted from lightweight aluminium.
FERRARI-STYLE SPORTS CAR
ARM OU RE D SCOUT CAR
£5824 Another electric car rather than a pedal-powered one and really beautifully finished despite not being a scale replica of a specific Ferrari.
£418 A home-made pedal car of dramatic silhouette, and almost of a scale to be considered a threat. Based on a ride-on lawnmower, presumably bladeless.
AVRO L AN CASTE R B . I I I
BUGAT TI -A- LI KE
£2016 This magnificent monster, modelled on an aircraft from the ‘Dambusters’ squadron, is radio controlled. Not surprisingly you need official clearance to fly it, what with its 204in wingspan.
£448 Possibly the oldest pedaller present, and wonderfully patinated with it. It even has brakes, in contrast to real period Bugattis, which fell infamously short in this department.
All 156 lots came via the James Hull collection owned by JLR Heritage 11 APRIL 2018 AUTOCAR.CO.UK 57