ONE of the rarest cars in the country will go under the hammer later this week. 

A 1977 Ford Granada 3.0L Ghia, believed to be one of less than 10 still licenced on UK roads, is up for sale at the South Western Vehicle Auctions in Holton Heath. 

The immaculate model has been lovingly restored by its current owner, who has had to give up the car due to poor health. 

Powered by a 3-litre V6 ‘Essex’ engine, the Granada has had an engine overhaul allowing for unleaded fuel compatibility. 

Finished in a bronze/gold metallic paintwork, auctioneers are expected the car to be sold for between £15k and £17k. 

Darren Loveys, managing director at the auction, said: “The condition of this car is remarkable, and we have a full service history including registration documents and MOT certificates from 1984.  

“The Ford Granada was a car of its time, with the Ghia models representing suburban affluence and style.  

“Not the exact model, but a metallic bronze Granada GT also featured in the popular cop series of the era The Sweeney.” 

A replacement for the popular Zephyr and Zodiac, the Granada was the first European Ford production car to carry the Turin-based coachbuilder’s luxury specification ‘Ghia’ badge. 

The auction will be held Thursday, February 1 at 10am where fifty classic cars are up for auction, with the Granada expected to pull in high interest.