The Skoda Superb was serenaded by a string quartet as it made its auction debut at Manheim Auctions Coventry.

The sale achieved a near 90% conversion rate, with cars achieving an average of 104.84% of CAP clean.

John Husband, Manheim's national account manager, said; 'Fifty Skoda retailers attended. The strong bidding shows a confident start to the year.'

Good performers included an 02 2.8 Elegance V6 with 10,056 miles which sold for £15,000 (100% of CAP clean), an 02 1.9 TDI Comfort, 3,718 miles, going for £14,250 (98% CAP clean) and an 02 1.8 Comfort, 5,955 miles at £11,800 (100% CAP clean).