1963 GKN FV432 Armored Personnel Carrier

40 Bids Winner - drrp5279
1:46 PM, 27 Mar 2023Vehicle sold
Sold for

$21,262

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)
Winner - drrp5279

Background

PLEASE NOTE THAT AN AUCTION PREMIUM WILL BE CHARGED, ON TOP OF THE HAMMER PRICE, OF 5%. STARTING JAN. 16TH 2023, THIS APPLIES TO ALL AUCTIONS ON THE MARKET, AND FEES ARE MIN. $500 / MAX. $5,000.

In service since the sixties, the FV432 Armored Personnel Carrier was produced for nearly 10 years. It offered the ability to transport troops while protecting them from gunfire. Produced by GKN in Britain, there's a variety of military-specific products based on the FV430 family of vehicles. The FV432 itself has been put to multiple uses in the past (18 roles, officially), thanks to the wide range of versions offered, in addition to how easily it could be converted from one type to another.

  • 09EA20
  • 2048
  • Rolls-Royce K60
  • manual
  • Gray Camo
  • Black Vinyl
  • N/A
  • Other

Vehicle location
Bakersfield, CA, United States

Background

PLEASE NOTE THAT AN AUCTION PREMIUM WILL BE CHARGED, ON TOP OF THE HAMMER PRICE, OF 5%. STARTING JAN. 16TH 2023, THIS APPLIES TO ALL AUCTIONS ON THE MARKET, AND FEES ARE MIN. $500 / MAX. $5,000.

In service since the sixties, the FV432 Armored Personnel Carrier was produced for nearly 10 years. It offered the ability to transport troops while protecting them from gunfire. Produced by GKN in Britain, there's a variety of military-specific products based on the FV430 family of vehicles. The FV432 itself has been put to multiple uses in the past (18 roles, officially), thanks to the wide range of versions offered, in addition to how easily it could be converted from one type to another.

Overview

Listed here is the armored personnel carrier version of the FV432. It appears to be as large as a mid-sized troop carrier, but it offers a very advanced level of protection. The quad-lamp setup at the front does give it a handsome look. While on the inside, it has foldable seats, with all controls within arm's reach of the driver.

Exterior

Based on the FV430 series, the FV432 APC has a completely covered exterior. Depending on the version, it could be specced with guns, turret cannons, or even cranes. The one listed is no longer on active duty, so it doesn't have any of that. As can be seen in the photos below, it comes with the commander's hatch on the roof, right ahead of the passengers' split hatch on the roof.

Interior

This cabin is obviously unlike anything that car enthusiasts are used to, but with the seat positioned on the right and with all controls placed around the driver, it's not too dissimilar, either. The passengers get two side-facing folding bench seats, which would've been of great use when transporting a mix of troops and ammunition. Access to the cabin is from the rear door.

Mechanical

Modifications and special versions aside, the FV432 was powered by a Rolls Royce K60 Multi-fuel engine which made just under 250 hp. The all-steel construction gave it strength and a torsion-bar system handled suspension duties.

History

Manufactured by GKN (also known for making automotive components), the FV432 was in production for nearly a decade. Its use lasted longer than that, and it's appreciated even now at classic shows.

The FV430 series spawned many versions, and as mentioned above, the FV432 itself was responsible for many roles. While its use wasn't quite global, the FV432 served the army in crucial times. Odometer shows 2,048 miles.

Summary

If you're after an armored personnel carrier, the FV432 presents a strong case for itself. Its appeal might be limited to serious enthusiasts; and, of course, making a camper van based on this wouldn't be the most feasible modification, either. Let's not forget that unladen, weighs 13 tons, this thing!

Estimated $4,000 - $8,000.

PLEASE NOTE: The vehicles from this collection have been sitting for a number of years. Mechanical and running condition of each lot is unknown, and they are being sold 'as is'. This vehicle is being sold on Bill of Sale only.

About this auction

Seller

Private: Sam Biggs


Viewings Welcome

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