A classic Fiat 500 L, once owned by current British prime minister, David Cameron, has made a mockery of its £12,000 ($19,081) high estimate at a classic car auction in the UK.
The 1971-built vehicle, which Cameron bought as a present for his wife in 1998, has sold for £18,150 ($28,850), 51.25% above its valuation.
 Regular 1971 Fiat 500s sell for around £6,000 |
Purchased by the PM when he was yet to even be an MP, the car had just 13,000 miles on the clock.
And while its small proportions styling, recent full restoration and low mileage were undoubtedly attractive features, it was its famous provenance that helped it achieve its strong showing at Silverstone Auctions on November 17.
Restored examples from 1971 without the famous connection sell for just £6,000 ($9,500).
Nick Whale, the auction house's managing director, said: "No matter what your political persuasion, this is one cool car. It's not every day that you get the chance to bid for a car that was once owned by a global figure.
"For one lucky new owner this stylish little Fiat will offer many years of happy motoring, whilst also being a genuine investment because of its illustrious history."
It is not the first time an illustrious former owner has added significant sums to an otherwise ordinary motor car.
A 1971 Fiat 500 formerly owned by the Prince of Monaco sold for €26,274 ($33,750) in July, while a 2001 VW Golf once owned by Kate Middleton received bids of £48,100 ($77,000) when it appeared on eBay in 2011.
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