Barn Find Bonanza: Massive Collection of 230 Cars Now Available for Sale

The article discusses the incredible story of Ad Palmen, a Dutchman who amassed a collection of 230 classic cars over four decades. The article highlights the eclectic mix of cars in the collection, ranging from a 1912 Singer to a 2006 Opel Movano pickup, and includes several rare and unusual vehicles.

Many of us dream of owning a collection of classic cars. It's like having a grown-up version of the box of toy cars you had as a kid. Ad Palmen from the Netherlands has been living this dream for four decades, slowly amassing one of the largest private collections in Europe. But due to his age and "various circumstances," Palmen has decided to sell his collection, which includes an eclectic mix of 230 cars ranging from a 1912 Singer to a 2006 Opel Movano pickup.

Palmen's collection features many rare and unique cars, including a Simca Aronde Oceane, Alfa Romeo Zagato 2600 SZ, Lancia Aurelia B50 Cabriolet Pininfarina, Delahaye 135M, Tatra T87, Rolls-Royce Camargue, AC Bristol Aceca, Studebaker President, and seven Facel Vegas. Modern classics such as a Renault 19 Cabriolet, Land Rover Discovery, Jaguar XJS 4.0 Convertible, Mazda RX-7 (FC3C), Volvo 480, and Lancia Thema are also part of the collection.

Apart from cars, the collection includes motorcycles, mopeds, furniture, a tractor, and a Hymer motorhome, making it a total of 280 lots.

The collection will go under the hammer in May, and according to the Classic Car Auctions website, it is unlikely that anyone will ever see a collection of this caliber and condition again in their lifetime. Classic Car Auctions' team in the Netherlands is documenting and photographing every car, listing them on the website, and dealing with hundreds, if not thousands, of requests for more information.

Palmen's story isn't typical, but it's one that many car enthusiasts can relate to. We all start with one car, and before we know it, we have a collection. Palmen lived this dream, and his collection is a testament to his passion for classic cars.

The author notes that many car enthusiasts dream of owning a collection like Palmen's and that the sale of the collection is a rare opportunity for someone to acquire some truly unique vehicles. The article ends by paying tribute to Palmen's remarkable achievement in building such an impressive collection.

Take a look at the list on the Classic Car Auctions website and let us know what you’d like to take home from the Netherlands.