Rowan Atkinson's cars go under the hammer

A 1993 Mercedes-Benz 500E and a 1989 Lancia Thema owned by comedian and actor Rowan Atkinson are being offered for sale by Silverstone Auctions at its Race Retro Classic Car Sale on 24^th and 25^th February.

Mercedes-Benz 500E is actually the second 500E owned by the renowned comedian and actor, who was so impressed by the first model he bought new in the 1990s that in 2015 he set about finding a best of breed example - which is the one now being offered for auction.

Powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine, the car's interior features grey cloth-upholstery, preferred by Rowan to the standard leather finish, as well as walnut detailing and leather covered steering wheel. The exterior, finished in Silver, is in outstanding condition and the car is offered with a comprehensive history file, original book pack and spare set of keys.

Joining it 'on stage' is Rowan's other modern classic - the Lancia Thema 8.32 Series 1.

As a renowned classic car enthusiast, Rowan chose this model because of its rarity as a Series 1 model, which is confirmed as there are less than 20 examples currently registered and taxed according to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in the U.K.

Finished in Red and housing the V8 32-valve engine from the Ferrari 328, this excellent condition left-hand drive example, complete with beige velour upholstery, has been in Rowan's ownership for the last seven years, during which time a considerable sum has been spent maintaining and improving the car.