1979 Monteverdi Sahara V8

Highlights

One of only 30 Saharas built
Only 16,177 miles covered
Known to the Monteverdi Owners Club
The only one in the UK
Current keeper since 1989
Unmodified and smartly presented example
Rare 7.2L V8 Mopar engine option

The Appeal

When the 70s fuel crisis kyboshed Peter Monteverdi’s GT dreams it signalled the end of some truly great continent-crushing sports cars but the arrival of a whole new era of hand-built Swiss SUVs.

Alongside the pretty Fissore-designed Safari, Monteverdi offered the cheaper Sahara. Heavily based on the International Harvester Scout SUV, each Sahara was carefully modified for each buyer and offered with brutally quick MOPAR V8s. Sales were never strong - for which we can thank that fuel crisis - and only 30 were built.

This, therefore, is a genuine unicorn. It is the only Sahara in the UK and known to the Monteverdi Owners Club. It arrived here in 1983 and has been with the current keeper since 1989.

It is an exceptionally low mileage example - just 16,177 miles from new - and equipped with the potent Chrysler 440CI 7.2litre V8 according to the seller. It is in good, unrestored condition, giving the buyer to option to retain that lovely patina or improve it.

Now eligible as a Historic Vehicle to be MOT, tax and ULEZ exempt, the vendor has usefully tested it. The condition is underlined by a lengthy and advisory-free MOT to December 2024.

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History and Paperwork

First registered in 1979
UK registered since 1st June 1983
Only 2 former registered keepers
Current keeper since 16th October 1989
HPI reports previous grey/black and re-registered black in 1994
Regularly serviced by the seller and previous keeper
MOT valid until December 2024 with no advisories
MOT records show 18,895kms in 2008 and now on 26,034 kms
Eligible for Historic Vehicle status so MOT, tax and ULEZ exempt
Known to the Monteverdi Owners Club
Said to be the only one in the UK known to the Club
Reputed to have been made to order according to previous keepers
Reputed to have had a lot of work done over the years
Chassis number 7584

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The Condition

Black paintwork appears to be older repaint and remain in good overall condition
Some signs of age and use typical of an older paint finish
Bodywork presents well with some minor imperfections to note in photographs
Some corrosion to note to base of doors
Underside shows some age but no structural advisories on current MOT
Purposeful Scout bodywork with Monteverdi bespoke fittings
Appears to retain its Monteverdi fittings inside and out
Sits on BF Goodrich all terrain tyres with polished alloys showing some tarnish
Original and apparently unmodified interior in generally good order
Small tear visible to one of the front seats in photographs
Cabin fittings are well kept with tidy dashboard, dials and trims
Burgundy front velour seats and matching carpets in original but faded condition
Black velour rear seat in good condition
Fitted with a modern Pioneer stereo unit
Some minor marks to centre console trim items
Please note that the tow bar pictured is not included in the sale

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The Mechanics

Vendor reports that it is fitted with a 7,200cc V8 engine
HPI and DVLA record fitted with the alternative 5.7L V8 available for these vehicle
3spd automatic gearbox with hi/low transfer box AWD options
Based on proven International Harvester Scout running gear and chassis
Vendor reports that it runs and drives well for its age
No mechanical or running gear advisories on current MOT test

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BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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