Paul Jolly: SW Vehicle Auctions kicks off 2026 with French classics and prized collector cars

The first SW Vehicle Auctions offering of 2026 is next Thursday 29 January at their site starting at 10am in Wareham, just East of Dorchester, so an easy ride from Torbay. 

Many lots are offered with no reserve so there is every likelihood of grabbing a bargain on the day but of course, only if you are there. With pre-bids, telephone bids and even online bids for those who cannot attend. 

However, there is nothing like being on the floor of the auction to get the feel of the event and put your bidding skills to the test.

There is a French Connection here with some truly classic Citroens, well worth mentioning and, in fact, are getting very rare.

I have always liked the barmy and barking mad 2CV and there is a red and cream model from 1982 with a guide of around £1500+ so an easy entry into classic car ownership and a car never short of drawing opinions. Designed for French farmers to get their eggs to market without breaking them, featuring long travel soft suspension for the ruts.

For sheer rarity, which is one of the most important factors in the classic car world, look no further than the 1952 Citroen Traction Avant, famed for appearing in the Maigret TV series. 

This was a world first on introduction in 1934 featuring front wheel drive, independent suspension, monocoque bodyshell and rack and pinion steering. Probably the most revolutionary design of the 20th Century. Guide £6-8000.

But my car of the day has to be the 1973 Citroen DS20 Pallas, a top of the range 'Goddess' with service receipts for more than the guide price of £12-14000. This has the leather interior and swivelling headlights and is perfect for European tours being a lefthand drive version. Another Citroen design to take the world by storm, this time in 1955.

Other lots include a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow and Rolls Royce Corniche convertible, MGBs Triumph TR3/TR6, TVR 290S, E Type Jaguar, Porsche 911s the list goes on.

Free admittance on the day but remember your cheque book, just in case!