A tempting array of cars from the Keller Collection will head up the Zoute Sale for Bonhams on Sunday 11 October including a 1965 AC Cobra 289 being sold with an estimate of €700,000 – €900,000 (£600,000-£770,000).
One of the 45 original AC Cobra 289s built as a COB-numbered leaf spring UK right-hand drive specification car, it was originally sold by AC Cars in Vineyard Green over Beige. It was subsequently converted to left hand drive and refinished in Red when its then owner exported it to California.
This rare, original AC Cobra 289 was driven from America’s coast to coast on at least two occasions in period. Importantly, unlike many other AC Cobras, it retains its original chassis, body and engine in unmodified condition. It is also listed in both the ACOC and SAA Cobra Registries and its entire history from 1965 to the present day is known.
The Cobra is among a number of other cars from the Keller Collection going to sale. This will include a 1970 Lamborghini Miura P400S and Countach 25th Anniversary, Ferrari 365 GTC/4 and Dino 246 GT, two Maserati Ghibli 4.7s, and a 1992 Porsche 064 Carrera RS.
Christian Keller said: ‘Over many years, my brother and I searched Switzerland and abroad for vehicles that moved us – not simply because they were rare, but because of their character, authenticity, and the stories they had to tell.
‘Today, the collection stands at a turning point. My brother, with whom I selected, cared for, and drove each of these cars, is no longer here to experience them. What remains is the joy we poured into these vehicles together and the hope that they will now find new owners who will cherish and preserve them with the same appreciation.
‘The sale of the Collection is not a farewell to the cars, but the passing on of the passion that brought the Collection into being.’
Michael Squire, Head of Europe Sales for Bonhams, added: ‘The Zoute Sale is always a highlight of the Bonhams European auction calendar, and 2026 promises to be the same. While our location has changed, now along the beach close to the Casino, the calibre of cars offered in Bonhams’ Zoute Sale has not.
‘We are indebted to Mr Keller for entrusting his family’s beautifully curated collection to Bonhams. Back in the early 1970s, the Lamborghini Miura singlehandedly created the supercar genre and, today, it stands as one of the most cherished and sought-after collector cars. To be able to offer an original, authentic and unmolested AC Cobra 289, is a great way to launch the consignments to our Zoute Sale.’
Images courtesy of Bonhams
