In a dazzling display of automotive allure, Trade Me Motors has crowned its listings of the year for 2023, featuring two supercars, a celebrity yacht, and even the former abode of Harold the Giraffe. The eclectic mix showcases Kiwis' passion for everything from humble vehicles to aspirational dream rides.
Jayme Fuller, Head of Trade Me Motors, remarked on the diverse range of vehicles capturing the nation's hearts.
"The top listings of 2023 show Kiwis are into all sorts of vehicles, whether it be a soon-to-be classic or a million-dollar supercar," she says.
10. Van Der Heijden Explorer Motor Yacht - 47,971 views ($3,750,000)
9. Harold's Home (charity auction) - 59,038 views (SOLD for $22,850)
8. 1977 Land Rover Series 3 SWB 2.5L - 63,555 views (SOLD for $28,150)
7. 2002 Holden Commodore Ss V8 - 70,229 views ($22,000)
6. The Black Pig is up for sale - 70,392 views ($80,000)
5. 1965 Volkswagen Kombi 3 x 1965/66 VW Splitscreen K - 72,594 views ($340,000)
4. 1965 Ford Mustang - 77,775 views (SOLD for $58,000)
3. 1959 Cadillac Series 62 - 111,218 views (SOLD for $207,100)
2. 2018 Ford GT 3.5L V6 EcoBoost - 120,294 views ($1,950,000)
1. 2019 McLaren Senna GTR - 156,979 views ($3,250,000)
Topping the charts with a staggering 156,979 views was the most expensive listing, a 2019 McLaren Senna GTR. Fuller described it as "absolutely bonkers," highlighting its rarity as one of just 75 worldwide and the only one in Aotearoa.
The ultra-rare supercar boasted a mind-boggling asking price of $3.25 million and could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 352 km/h—weighing less than a Suzuki Swift.
Securing the runner-up spot with 120,294 views was a 2018 Ford GT, the second rarest and second fastest of the top 10 listings. With a price tag matching its impressive performance at $1.95 million, this Ford GT was one of just two in Aotearoa, capable of hitting 347 km/h.
Adding a touch of celebrity glamour to the lineup was Kim Dotcom's 1959 Cadillac, rounding out the podium finish with 111,218 views. The Elvis pink Cadillac, seized during a raid on Dotcom's mansion in 2012, resurfaced more than a decade later in pristine condition.
Another notable celebrity entry was Kiwi broadcasting veteran Paul Henry's personalized Van Der Heijden Explorer motor yacht, named Olive after Henry's late mother, securing the tenth spot with over 47,000 views.
However, the true heartwarmer in the collection was Harold the giraffe's former home, the Life Ed classroom, which garnered over $22,000 for the Life Education Trust. Fuller expressed the significance of bidding farewell to Harold's home, a long-standing educational staple for tamariki and rangatahi.
Making a repeat appearance in the top 10 was a 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback, this time claiming the fourth spot with 77,775 views. Fuller noted that this year's Mustang had undergone cosmetic surgery, transforming from a coupe to the iconic fastback roofline.
Classic cars asserted their timeless appeal in the rankings, with five of the top eight listings built before the turn of the century. A trio of VW Kombi vans clinched fifth place, amassing 72,594 views, while a Series 3 Land Rover secured eighth place with 63,555 views.
As Trade Me Motors unveils the most captivating listings of 2023, it's evident that New Zealanders' automotive passions span the spectrum, from high-octane supercars to cherished classics and even a touch of celebrity allure.
