Lister has continued with its ambitious growth plans by expanding into the sale of specialist cars – including those that are from other brands. Within the new five million pound Lister Classics showroom in Blackburn, the firm is selling its F-Type-based Thunder, the 675hp prototype that came before the LFT-666, and an example of its Knobbly Continuation that’s been specced in a road-biased trim.
But it’s the decision to also offer cars like a one-owner 993 Porsche 911, a 2005 Honda NSX - one of only 19 UK cars to feature the facelift fixed-headlight design - and a Mercedes-Benz 230 SL that really emphasises the extent of Lister CEO Lawrence Whittaker’s ambitions. With no limit to what the Classics showroom can stock, it could provide the company with a substantial income generator – and with the inclusion of a warranty from Whittaker’s Warranty Wise business, it ought to grow that further too.
“As a car enthusiast and collector myself I know what potential buyers of classic cars look for when in-market for a special car,” said Whittaker. “There is a gap in the market for classic car dealers here in the North West of England, Lister Classics will now bring the world’s finest cars to Lancashire and we invite buyers to come and visit us to view our inventory and enjoy the surroundings of our new showroom”.
He added that the Lister Classics division will offer a modern, high-end showroom experience combined with “the personal approach and attention to detail you expect when buying a special vehicle.” Although what those of us not in the market for such a car will be hoping is that the new source of income will benefit the firm’s upcoming line-up, including the 200mph F-Pace-based LFP and gorgeous (according to the rendering, anyway) ‘new’ Knobbly that’s due next year, possibly with a Jag V6 under the bonnet.
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