The late Paul Newman, the Academy Award-winning actor, successful race car driver, entrepreneur and philanthropist, has deemed in his will that his collection of cars and private airplane should be sold at auction, with the proceeds to go to his estate.

Details about the auction itself are scarce, with no date provided as of yet, nor a catalog of items. While the exact number of cars and their makes and models remains uncertain, Newman was heavily involved with racing Datsun (Nissan) models during the 1970s, 1980s and early 1990s, leading to speculation that some of his previous racing Datsuns will be appearing at the auction.

Also possibly up for sale could be Paul Newman's own Volvo 950, which featured a Cosworth V8 engine pumping out around 400hp (298kW) through its RWD chassis. Newman also reportedly owned a 670hp (500kW) Chevrolet Corvette that may also make an appearance at the auction.

Newman's interest in motorsport was sparked by his acting role in the 1969 film ‘Winning’, and Newman reportedly found the feeling of control and self-responsibility behind the wheel of a race car intoxicating. His motorsport debut took place in the early 1970s at the sprightly age of 47, and during the 1979 24 Hours of Le Mans he managed to finish 2nd, and come 1st in his class while racing for Dick Barbour Racing.

Meanwhile, Newman decreed in his will that his Academy-Award for 'The Color of Money' should be donated to the Newman's Own foundation, a charity he set up a couple of years ago, while his property and art collection will go to his wife.