Model sports car collection goes on sale

One of the largest collections of model and toy Porsche sports cars in the world was being auctioned today.

The collection of almost 2,000 model vehicles was owned by Charles Kuell, the former president of the Porsche club of America, who died in 2001 aged 83.

Mr Kuell, a New York land surveyor, was interested in the sports cars from an early age and became friends with Dr Porsche, travelling to Germany, where the cars originated, once or twice a year.

He began collecting the models in the 1960s, acquiring many on his numerous trips to Europe, but stopped travelling in the mid 1990s when his health started to fail.

His collection contains many one-off models or one of only a few made and ranges from 550 racing models, through to the Le Mans racing cars and 911 road cars.

A long time friend of the family, Seth Geller, said: “Charlie was interested in Porsche because he appreciated fine workmanship and perfected engineering.

“He also liked cars that drove fast and handled well. I think that is why the Porsche family truly appreciated Charlie’s interest.”

Vectis model car expert Andy Reed said: “This is an amazing collection of Porsche’s. There is something for every Porsche enthusiast.”

The collection, which contains models valued at up to €145, will be auctioned by Vectis Auctioneers in Buckingham.

Vectis Auctions is the largest auctioneer of toys in the world.