Stars of Harry Metcalfe’s ‘Harry’s Garage’ to go under the hammer

A selection of cars and motorbikes from Harry Metcalfe’s personal collection will be sold by Iconic Auctioneers at the NEC Classic Motor Show

Iconic Auctioneers will present an extraordinary highlight at this year’s NEC Classic Motor Show: a selection of cars and motorbikes from the personal collection of Harry Metcalfe, founder of Evo magazine and presenter of Harry’s Garage. Each vehicle has featured prominently on Metcalfe’s YouTube channel, where they have become firm favourites with millions of viewers around the world. The sale will take place across the Iconic Sale and Iconic Motorcycle Auctions on the 8th and 9th November respectively, with viewing available from Friday 7th November at the NEC in Birmingham.

1971 Lamborghini Espada S2

The striking Lamborghini Espada S2, owned by Harry Metcalfe since 2012, has become one of the best-known Espadas in the country, with over 3.6 million YouTube views. The Espada, designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, was Lamborghini’s flagship four-seater grand tourer of the 1970s and was, remarkably, more expensive than the Miura when new. Harry’s 1971 Series 2 example has benefitted from a major engine and suspension rebuild by marque specialist Ian Tyrell between 2020 and 2021, a process fully documented on both Harry’s Garage and Tyrell’s Classic Workshop YouTube channels. The upgrades include the addition of power steering, enhancing usability without compromising the Espada’s authentic feel. Its earlier 1980s restoration added distinctive touches such as the Perspex roof and black wheel spinners, details that remain part of its character today.

The car has been widely featured in the collector car scene, from its appearance in Octane magazine to concours successes at the London Concours and on the Cartier Lawn at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Harry has used the car extensively, including European tours to Monte Carlo and most recently a filmed drive across the Yorkshire Moors with his dog, Stanley, proving both its reliability and charm as a true GT. With over six figures invested in its mechanical and cosmetic restoration, this Espada stands as one of the most admired examples in the UK – a world-renowned Lamborghini that combines provenance, concours pedigree and touring capability in equal measure.

1978 Jaguar XJC V12 Manual

Perhaps the most famous Jaguar XJC in existence, this V12 manual coupé has captivated nearly six million viewers on Harry’s Garage. Since acquiring it in 2014, Harry set out to transform what was already a rare and handsome two-door XJ into the ultimate driver’s Jaguar. Over several years he commissioned an extensive mechanical and cosmetic rebuild, entrusting the engine work to renowned Jaguar specialist, Tom Lenthall, to extract the best from Jaguar’s iconic V12. Suspension, brakes and steering were fully re-engineered by XJ Restoration, refining the balance between comfort and handling, while Painting Classic Cars perfected the deep Aston Martin DBS Minotaur Green finish. The interior was carefully refurbished to maintain authenticity while improving comfort and driving feel.

The car’s transformation has been documented in multiple Harry’s Garage episodes, charting its progress from concept to completion and attracting a devoted following online. With a 5-speed manual gearbox conversion unlocking the full potential of the V12’s performance and sound, the result is a car that performs as impressively as it looks. Every stage of its evolution is supported by detailed invoices and correspondence with past owners, illustrating the passion and precision invested in its creation. With total expenditure exceeding six figures, this XJC exemplifies Harry’s vision of what a grand touring Jaguar should be: powerful, refined and utterly unique.

1954 Land Rover Series I 86″

This charming 1954 Land Rover Series I holds a special place in Harry’s Garage history as one of the very first vehicles featured on the channel back in 2014. A fan favourite with close to 500,000 views, it has been owned by Harry since that time and remains in excellent mechanical condition following a recent top-end rebuild, fuel pump replacement and full engine service. The 86-inch wheelbase model is often regarded as one of the most desirable early Series I variants, combining improved proportions with the utilitarian charm that defined the post-war Land Rover. Harry’s example has always been kept in regular use, serving as both a practical workhorse and a nostalgic nod to Britain’s motoring heritage, and its mechanical health reflects his philosophy that classics are meant to be driven, not hidden away.

A remarkable motorcycle selection

Offered from Harry’s motorcycle collection is the 1979 Kawasaki Z1300 – a landmark model from the golden age of Japanese superbikes. Its liquid-cooled 1,286cc inline-six engine produces 120bhp, delivering effortless performance and refinement. Owned by Harry since 2019, this example shows 41,789 miles and runs beautifully. It presents a rare chance to own a KZ1300 with impeccable provenance from one of Britain’s most respected automotive enthusiasts.

The Yamaha XT500 has been part of Harry’s collection since 2016. Built in 1978 and first registered in 1979, it was specifically chosen by Harry as a tribute to the model’s Dakar-winning year. Featured as part of his Paris–Dakar collection on Harry’s Garage, it remains in fine order and ready for display or use. As the villain’s bike of choice in For Your Eyes Only, the XT500 combines period significance, provenance and collector appeal.

Also offered is Harry’s 1984 Honda XL500R, a fine example of Honda’s renowned four-stroke trail bike series. With its single-cylinder engine, comfortable stance and durable design, the XL500R remains one of the most enjoyable off-roaders of its era. Owned by Harry since 2019, it presents well and, after light recommissioning, will be ready for its next custodian.

A respected businessman, motoring journalist and collector, Harry co-founded Evo magazine in the late 1990s, redefining performance car journalism. Since 2013 he has built Harry’s Garage into one of YouTube’s most influential classic and performance car channels, now boasting over 837,000 subscribers. His in-depth, laid-back videos celebrate the world’s most characterful cars and bikes, attracting a global community of enthusiasts.

Harry Metcalfe added: “Over the years, I’ve amassed a collection of 35 truly remarkable vehicles – all of which hold a special place in my heart. However, now the time feels right to start pruning my collection and I’m excited to be offering a selection of cars and motorcycles to the open market with Iconic Auctioneers at their NEC Classic Motor Show Sale. As explained in my latest Harry’s Garage video, several of the vehicles I am making available for sale are truly unique, and I look forward to them finding new owners who can continue to enjoy the enhanced experience they offer.”

Rob Hubbard, Managing Director and Principal Auctioneer at Iconic Auctioneers, said: “We are honoured to present this remarkable selection from Harry Metcalfe’s personal collection at the NEC Classic Motor Show. Each car and motorcycle reflects Harry’s deep knowledge of and love for the classic car sector, and their stories have entertained millions. This offering truly captures passion for classic motoring at every level of the market.”

The Harry Metcalfe Collection will be available to view in Hall 2 at the NEC, Birmingham, from Friday 7^th November, with auctions taking place across 8^th  and 9^th November 2025. For more information, to view the catalogue, or to register to bid, visit https://www.iconicauctioneers.com/nec-classic-motor-show-sale.

To view the Harry’s Garage episode in which the sale is announced, visit: https://youtu.be/iAVSCShhcLg?si=g_FNJwNkrpGkXyG5.