The Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold in Auction

Some cars aren’t just vehicles—they’re rolling pieces of history, art, and pure luxury. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning a rare classic isn’t just about driving; it’s about owning a piece of automotive legend.

At high-profile auctions, car lovers spend millions—sometimes even hundreds of millions—on rare, one-of-a-kind models. These aren’t your everyday luxury cars; they’re the rarest Ferraris, Bugattis, and Mercedes ever built, often linked to legendary races, celebrity owners, or groundbreaking engineering.

But just how much are people willing to pay for a car? The numbers will shock you. From vintage race cars to historic roadsters, i’ve gathered the 25 most expensive cars ever sold at auction. The highest price on this list? Well, let’s just say it could buy a Boeing 737 private jet!

Let’s find out;

25. 1954 FERRARI 375 PLUS SPYDER – $18.3M

Photo: 1954 FERRARI 375 PLUS SPYDER

The Ferrari 375 Plus Spyder was built for one purpose: winning endurance races. With a monstrous 4.9L V12 engine producing 330 horsepower, it was one of the most powerful Ferraris of its time. It took on legendary races, competing against Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Maserati in the golden age of motorsport.

Ferrari didn’t build the 375 Plus Spyder just to compete—it built it to dominate. Under the hood sat a 4.9L V12, designed by Aurelio Lampredi, a man whose engines had already helped Ferrari secure its first Formula 1 victory in 1951. By 1954, this very model roared to victory at Silverstone, piloted by the legendary José Froilán González.

It wasn’t just a track monster—it was a globetrotter. That same year, it fought through the grueling Le Mans 24 Hours, Mille Miglia, and Carrera Panamericana, driven by some of racing’s biggest names, including Jim Kimberly, Troy Ruttman, and Umberto Maglioli.

This specific 375 Plus had a controversial history before its auction. A legal battle over ownership kept it off the market for years before it finally sold for a jaw-dropping $18.3 million in 2014.

Highlights

• Sold at: Bonhams, Goodwood Festival of Speed (2014)
• Final Price: $18.3 million
• Why it’s valuable: Ultra-rare, only five ever built, and a legendary endurance racing history.
• Special history: Competed in the 1954 Mille Miglia, 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Carrera Panamericana.

24. 1961 FERRARI 250GT CALIFORNIA SWB SPYDER – $18.4M

Photo: 1961 FERRARI 250GT CALIFORNIA SWB SPYDER

Selling for $18.4 million, 1961 FERRARI 250GT CALIFORNIA SWB SPYDER was the priciest of the nine 250 Californias at auction. Displayed at the 1961 Paris Motor Show by Ferrari importer Franco-Britannic Autos, it was first owned by French actor Gérard Blain before passing to Alain Delon. In 1964, Delon took it to California before selling it, and it later changed hands among several actors.

In 1971, renowned French collector Jacques Baillon acquired it, and it disappeared into storage for decades. Finally, it reemerged in 2015. As the last closed-headlight SWB 250 California built at Maranello, its exceptional originality earned Artcurial’s title: “the Holy Grail of grand-touring Spiders.” With an unmatched history and pristine condition, this Ferrari remains one of the most extraordinary automotive discoveries

Highlights:

• Sold at: Artcurial, Retromobile (2015)
• Final Price: $18.4 million
• Why it’s valuable: Last closed-headlight SWB 250 California built, exceptional originality, and a rare, high-profile ownership history.
• Special history: Displayed at the 1961 Paris Motor Show, previously owned by French actors Gérard Blain and Alain Delon. Stored for decades by collector Jacques Baillon.

23.  1939 ALFA ROMEO 8C 2900 B TOURING BERLINETTA – $18.5M

Photo: 1939 ALFA ROMEO 8C 2900 B TOURING BERLINETTA

This Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B, built in 1937, is one of five with a Touring Berlinetta body. It was never registered in Italy and was reportedly owned by Italy’s foreign minister, Galeazzo Ciano, Mussolini’s son-in-law.

Shipped to London dealer Jack Bartlett in 1939, it was advertised in blue with 5,000 miles. With war looming, it remained unsold until 1947, resurfacing in silver. After winning the 1947 Regent’s Park Concours and 1948 Eastbourne Concours, it passed to Lord Ridley, who kept it until 1964, then Nigel Mann, who painted it red before selling it in 1976.

Owned by Jan Martens until 2019, this original Alfa won the Most Elegant Closed Car award in 2001. Additionally, it earned Best of Show at Pebble Beach in 2018, solidifying its status as an automotive masterpiece.

Highlights:

• Sold at: ARTCURIAL, Paris(2019)
• Final Price: $18.5 million
• Why it’s valuable: Ultra-rare, Touring Berlinetta bodies on the Lungo (LWB) platform, an award-winning design.
• Special history: Reportedly first owned by Galeazzo Ciano, Mussolini’s son-in-law; won the 1947 Regent’s Park Concours, 1948 Eastbourne Concours.

22. 2013 MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS F1 W04 – $18.8M

Photo: 2013 MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS F1 W04

Lewis Hamilton’s 2013 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W04 exceeded expectations at RM Sotheby’s Las Vegas sale. It fetched $18.8 million, surpassing its $10-15 million estimate. MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS F1 W04 powered Hamilton through 14 of the season’s 19 races, including his Hungarian Grand Prix victory. Additionally, it contributed to four other podium finishes.

This car laid the groundwork for Hamilton’s dominance in the years to come.Still in its period livery, this car is the only modern Mercedes Grand Prix car not owned by the team, Toto Wolff, or Hamilton. Remarkably, it retains its original 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine. This makes it a rare, fully operable F1 piece, ready to race again.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, LAS VEGAS (2023)
• Final Price: $18.8 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, private ownership of F1 car, 14 Grand Prix races.
• Special history: Driven by Lewis Hamilton and securing a win at the 2013 Hungarian Grand Prix.

21. 1939 ALFA ROMEO 8C 2900 B LUNGO TOURING SPIDER- $19.8M

Photo: 1939 ALFA ROMEO 8C 2900 B LUNGO TOURING SPIDER

This Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Lungo Touring Spider overcame a turbulent past to become the most coveted and expensive Alfa ever sold at the time. One of just seven built, its early history remained a mystery until Alfa historian Simon Moore uncovered its journey.

Imported to Brazil in 1949 by racer Mario Tavares Leite, it was heavily modified, raced successfully, then vanished. Later, its chassis was shortened, and a Corvette V8 was installed. Remarkably, in 1997, it was restored to its original Touring bodywork and driveline after four decades.

Commissioned by Sam and Emily Mann, Tony Merrick’s restoration earned second in class at Pebble Beach in 1999. Additionally, it won Most Elegant Car at the Cavallino Classic in 2016, solidifying its legacy.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, MONTEREY (2016)
• Final Price: $19.8 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, original bodywork restored, successful racing history, Pebble Beach award.
• Special history: Imported to Brazil in 1949, by Mario Tavares Leite, restored to original condition in 1997 after four decades.

20. 1994 MCLAREN F1 – $19.8M

Photo: 1994 MCLAREN F1

Chassis 018, one of only two McLaren F1s converted to LM specification by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), became the most expensive Woking-built supercar ever sold when it hit the auction block at Monterey in 2019.

Originally finished in Midnight Blue Pearl, it was delivered to its first owner in Japan in 1994. In 1999, a German collector commissioned MSO for LM upgrades, transforming it with Extra High-Downforce bodywork, a GTR-spec 6.1L V12, upgraded cooling, revised suspension, 18-inch GTR wheels, and a Platinum Silver Metallic finish.

Changing hands from Singapore to New Zealand, it remained meticulously serviced by MSO, covering just 13,352 miles by auction time—a rare, road-legal masterpiece blending McLaren’s endurance racing pedigree with ultimate exclusivity.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, MONTEREY (2019)
• Final Price: $19.8 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, two LM-spec McLaren F1s, MSO conversion, GTR-spec 6.1L V12, road-legal.
• Special history: Delivered to Japan in 1994, converted to LM spec in 1999. Changing hands from Singapore to New Zealand before being auctioned in 2019.

19. 1995 McLaren F1 – $20.4M

Photo: 1995 McLaren F1

With just 245 miles on the odometer,  this 1995 McLaren F1 (chassis 029) set a new record for the most expensive McLaren F1 ever sold at Gooding & Company’s 2021 Pebble Beach Auction. Initially estimated at $15 million, its exceptional rarity and untouched condition pushed its final price far beyond expectations.

The only F1 finished in Creighton Brown with Light Tan and Dark Brown leather, this masterpiece spent years with a Japanese collector. It was offered with original accessories, including a FACOM tool chest, titanium tool kit, custom luggage set, TAG Heuer timepiece, and a copy of Driving Ambition. With its unparalleled originality, this McLaren F1 remains a crown jewel in automotive history.

Highlights:

• Sold at: GOODING AND COMPANY, MONTEREY (2021)
• Final Price: $20.4 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, original condition, original accessories, Japanese collector-owned.
• Special history: The only McLaren F1 in Creighton Brown, offered with original accessories and memorabilia

18. 1963 ASTON MARTIN DP215 – $21.4M

Photo: 1963 ASTON MARTIN DP215

Fresh off its 1959 World Sportscar Championship victory, Aston Martin withdrew from racing in 1960 to focus on road cars. But dealers urged David Brown to return to the track, leading to the creation of 1963 ASTON MARTIN DP215—one of four DB4GT-based project cars.

A 1963 Le Mans Works entry, DP215 built on its DP212 and DP214 predecessors. Driven by Phil Hill and Lucien Bianchi, it reached 198.6 mph on the Mulsanne Straight before retiring. Sold in 1974, the car underwent decades of restoration. In 2002, its owner traded it for a Formula 1 Ferrari, eventually reconstructing a period-correct transmission. Today, this Aston legend lives on at Goodwood and the TT Revival.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, MONTEREY (2018)
• Final Price: $21.4 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, DP4GT-based, period transmission, notable racing history.
• Special history: Driven by Phil Hill and Lucien Bianchi at the 1963 Le Mans. Reached at 198.6 mph on the Mulsanne Straight before retiring.

17. 1955 JAGUAR D-TYPE – $21.7M

Photo: 1955 JAGUAR D-TYPE

With its groundbreaking aluminum monocoque, all-round disc brakes, and sleek Malcolm Sayer-designed body, 1955 JAGUAR D-TYPE redefined endurance racing. Jaguar’s ultimate goal? Conquering Le Mans—and it did, three times.
1955 JAGUAR D-TYPE made history as the first D-Type to claim victory at Le Mans, sporting Ecurie Ecosse’s iconic blue livery. Piloted by Ninian Sanderson and Ron Flockhart, it averaged 104.47 mph en route to glory.

Following its triumph, 1955 JAGUAR D-TYPE endured a few DNFs, including at the 1957 Mille Miglia, before Sir Michael Nairn restored it to its original Le Mans spec in 1970. Sold to an American collector in 1999, it dazzled at Pebble Beach in 2002. In 2016, it shattered records, becoming the most expensive British car ever auctioned.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, MONTEREY (2016)
• Final Price: $21.7 million
• Why it’s valuable: Groundbreaking design, first Le Mans victory, restoration to original spec, Pebble Beach success.
• Special history: The first D-Type to win Le Mans, underwent a full restoration.

16. 1935 DUESENBERG MODEL SSJ LAGRANDE CONVERTIBLE – $22.0M

Photo: 1935 DUESENBERG MODEL SSJ LAGRANDE CONVERTIBLE

A record-breaking sale, this 1935 DUESENBERG MODEL SSJ LAGRANDE CONVERTIBLE became the most expensive pre-war American car ever auctioned. Built during the company’s final days amid the Great Depression and the loss of Fred Duesenberg, 1935 DUESENBERG MODEL SSJ LAGRANDE CONVERTIBLE was one of only two SSJs made—custom-built for Hollywood icons Clark Gable and Gary Cooper in a bold PR move to revive the brand.
Cooper held onto the car into the late 1930s, enjoying its revolutionary short-wheelbase design and monstrous 7.0L supercharged straight-eight, producing an astonishing 400bhp—unheard of for a 1930s road car.

After passing through the hands of legendary collectors Briggs Cunningham and Miles Collier, the 1935 DUESENBERG MODEL SSJ LAGRANDE CONVERTIBLE remained hidden from public sale for nearly 70 years until it stunned the world at the 2018 GOODING AND COMPANY Auction in monterey.

Highlights:

• Sold at: GOODING AND COMPANY, MONTEREY (2018)
• Final Price: $22.0 million
• Why it’s valuable: Super rare, custom-built for Hollywood icons, 7.0L supercharged engine, rare design, historic ownership.
• Special history: Specially crafted for Clark Gable and Gary Cooper, boasting an innovative design and a powerful engine, stayed out of the public eye for almost 70 years.

15. 1956 FERRARI 290MM – $22.005M

Photo: 1956 FERRARI 290MM

With a racing pedigree as rich as its scarlet paint, 1956 FERRARI 290MM debuted as a Scuderia Ferrari Works entry in the legendary 1956 Mille Miglia. Piloted by Louis Klemantaski and Peter Collins, it secured a brilliant second place behind Ferrari teammate Eugenio Castellotti, with Luigi Musso and Juan Manuel Fangio close behind.

The car continued its campaign at the Nürburgring 1000km and Targa Florio before finishing its Works career in 1957, claiming third at the Buenos Aires 1000km. Transitioning to privateer hands, it remained a staple in historic racing, rallies, and concours for decades. In 2011, it underwent a meticulous restoration and Ferrari Classiche certification, cementing its status as one of Maranello’s most celebrated racing legends.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, LOS ANGELES (2018)
• Final Price: $22.005 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rich racing pedigree, historic racing events, meticulous restoration, Ferrari Classiche certified.
• Special history:The 1956 Ferrari 290MM raced in prestigious events like the Mille Miglia, Nürburgring 1000km, Targa Florio, and Buenos Aires 1000km before being restored and certified by Ferrari Classiche.

14. 1956 ASTON MARTIN DBR1/1 – $22.5M

Photo: 1956 ASTON MARTIN DBR1/1

The 1956 ASTON MARTIN DBR1/1 stands as Aston Martin’s crowning achievement in motorsport, a machine crafted purely for victory. With the 1955 rule change eliminating road-legal requirements, David Brown seized the moment, commissioning Ted Cutting to build a Le Mans-winning racer.

1956 ASTON MARTIN DBR1/1 made history at the 1959 Nürburgring 1000km. Despite Jack Fairman’s mishap dropping them to fourth, Stirling Moss stormed back to claim a dominant win, smashing his own record. Weeks later, DBR1/2 fulfilled Aston’s ultimate dream—Le Mans glory.

When 1956 ASTON MARTIN DBR1/1 hit the auction block in 2017, it became the most valuable British car ever sold, a testament to its legendary place in racing history.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, MONTEREY (2017)
• Final Price: $22.5 million
• Why it’s valuable: Motorsport achievement, Le Mans racer, Nürburgring 1000km victory, Stirling Moss win, most valuable British car ever sold.
• Special history: The 1956 Aston Martin DBR1/1 secured a dominant victory at the Nürburgring 1000km and set a record as the most expensive British car ever auctioned in 2017.

13.  1955 FERRARI 410 SPORT SPIDER – $23.0M

Photo: 1955 FERRARI 410 SPORT SPIDER

This 1955 Ferrari 410 Superamerica is a true icon, etched in history with Carroll Shelby’s victory at the 1956 Palm Springs Road Races. With its potent V12 engine and exquisite craftsmanship, it exemplifies Ferrari’s dominance in the golden era of motorsport.

In 2014, it commanded an astonishing $23 million at auction, cementing its status as one of the most desirable Ferraris ever. A meticulous restoration in 2017, including a full engine rebuild, ensured its legacy remained intact. With values soaring for rare classics, this Superamerica remains a crown jewel among collectors—its rarity, performance, and legendary racing pedigree making it a masterpiece of Ferrari’s most exclusive creations

Highlights:

• Sold at: Rick Cole Auctions, MONTEREY (2014)
• Final Price: $23.0 million
• Why it’s valuable: Iconic, Carroll Shelby victory, rare, legendary racing pedigree.
• Special history: The 1955 Ferrari 410 Superamerica is celebrated for Carroll Shelby’s 1956 Palm Springs Road Races win.

12. 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale – $26.4M

Photo: 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale

Tasked with following the legendary 250 GTO, Ferrari’s 275 GTB debuted in 1964 with groundbreaking advancements—independent rear suspension, a transaxle, and the final evolution of the Colombo V12. Among its rarest iterations, 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale is one of just three Speciales, featuring lightweight aluminum bodywork, increased power, and race-focused enhancements.

After passing through Ferrari’s hands and several European owners, it spent 25 years with Michel Pobrejeski in France before joining Brandon Wang’s esteemed collection. Wang meticulously restored it, completing the process in 1998. Since then, this elusive masterpiece has only surfaced at select events, including the 2002 Ferrari Club of America National Concours and the Monterey Historic Races at Laguna Seca.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM AUCTIONS, MONTEREY (2014)
• Final Price: $26.4 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, one of three 275 GTB/C Speciales, race-focused enhancements.
• Special history: Only appeared at prestigious events such as the 2002 Ferrari Club National Concours and Monterey Historic Races.

11. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider – $27.50M

Photo: 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider

This Ferrari’s story is one of passion and legacy. American businessman Eddie Smith Sr. was among the fortunate few to own a 275 GTB/4 NART Spyder, thanks to racing driver and Ferrari importer Luigi Chinetti. Chinetti persuaded Enzo Ferrari to build just ten of these rare convertibles and immediately offered one to Smith in 1968.

Hollywood icon Steve McQueen, who owned the first NART Spyder, desperately tried to buy Smith’s after his was wrecked, but Smith never let it go. It remained with him until his passing in 2007. Six years later, his son, believing it was time to share its legacy, auctioned the car and donated the proceeds to charity in honor of his father.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM AUCTIONS, MONTEREY (2013)
• Final Price: $27.5 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, One of ten NART Spyders, owned by Eddie Smith Sr., rare Ferrari.
• Special history: Owned by Eddie Smith Sr., who declined Steve McQueen’s offer to buy it, the car was later auctioned for charity to honor Smith’s legacy.

10.  1956 Ferrari 290 MM – $28.05 M

Photo: 1956 Ferrari 290 MM

Ferrari’s answer to Mercedes-Benz’s 1955 dominance came in the form of the Ferrari 290MM—a purebred racer designed to reclaim the World Sportscar Championship. Enzo Ferrari enlisted legends like Juan Manuel Fangio, Phil Hill, and Wolfgang von Trips to pilot it, and their efforts paid off.

The 1956 Ferrari 290 MM helped bring the title back to Maranello with strong finishes at the Mille Miglia, Nürburgring 1000km, and Swedish Grand Prix. The momentum continued in 1957 with another championship victory, driven by Masten Gregory, Eugenio Castellotti, and Luigi Musso.

After its racing days, Luigi Chinetti imported it to the U.S., before it spent 33 years in Pierre Bardinon’s famed Mas du Clos collection, cementing its place in Ferrari history.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM AUCTIONS, NEW YORK (2015)
• Final Price: $28.05 million
• Why it’s valuable: Legendary racing car, won multiple championships, driven by Ferrari greats, historic finishes.
• Special history: Was pivotal in Ferrari’s return to the World Sportscar Championship, won the Mille Miglia, Nürburgring 1000km, and Swedish Grand Prix.

9. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $29.65M

Photo: 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196

In 2013,1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 made history as the most expensive Formula 1 car ever sold. Driven by Juan Manuel Fangio, it helped secure his second of five championships, winning at the German and Swiss GPs, making it the only surviving W196 to win two championship races.

After its racing career, the car was displayed at events and made rare appearances at the Monaco Historic GPs in 1999 and 2000. When sold in 2013, its value soared, not only due to its racing achievements but also because it was the only W196 not owned by Daimler-Benz or a museum, solidifying its place as one of the most coveted cars in history.

Highlights:

• Sold at: BONHAMS, GOODWOOD (2013)
• Final Price: $29.65 million
• Why it’s valuable: only surviving W196 with 2 championship wins, raced at German and Swiss GPs, displayed at Monaco Historic GPs, not owned by Daimler-Benz or a museum.
• Special history: Juan Manuel Fangio secured his second championship with victories at the German and Swiss GPs.

8. 1967 Ferrari 412P – $30.25M

Photo: 1967 Ferrari 412P

1967 Ferrari 412P made history at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, fetching $30.25 million in 2023, making it the fourth most expensive Ferrari ever sold. 1967 Ferrari 412P is one of just four ever built and stands out as the only one retaining its original bodywork, driveline, and chassis.

Originally delivered to Colonel Ronnie Hoare’s Maranello Concessionaires, it was raced by legends like Richard Attwood and Jo Siffert at iconic events including Le Mans and the Swedish Grand Prix. Despite a fire at the 1969 East London 500km, the original bodywork remained intact, thanks to lightweight GRP panels. Following a meticulous nine-year restoration, this Ferrari continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Highlights:

• Sold at: BONHAMS, MONTEREY (2023)
• Final Price: $30.25 million
• Why it’s valuable: Super rare, One of four built, original bodywork, raced by legends, Le Mans and Swedish GP history, fire survival.
• Special history: Driven by racing legends Richard Attwood and Jo Siffert at iconic events, this Ferrari triumphed over a fierce fire in 1969, adding to its legendary status.

7. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti – $35.82M

Photo: 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti

1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti, one of only four 335 Sport Spyders ever built, set a record as the most expensive car ever sold at auction in Europe when it was auctioned at ARTCURIAL, PARIS. Initially built as a 315S in 1957, it raced in the Sebring 12 Hours before securing second place in the Mille Miglia with Wolfgang von Trips behind the wheel.

Converted to 335 Sport spec, it raced in Le Mans and later competed in the Swedish and Venezuelan Grands Prix, contributing to Ferrari’s 1957 Constructors’ Championship win. Sold to Luigi Chinetti in 1958, it won the Cuban GP and raced in the US. After a restoration in 1981, it remained in Pierre Bardinon’s collection until its record-breaking sale in 2016.

Highlights:

• Sold at: ARTCURIAL, PARIS (2016)
• Final Price: $35.82 million
• Why it’s valuable: Super rare, One of only four 335 Sport Spyders, multiple prestigious race wins, part of Ferrari’s 1957 Constructors’ Championship.
• Special history: Raced by Wolfgang von Trips at Sebring, Mille Miglia, Le Mans, and contributing to Ferrari’s racing legacy.

6.  1964 FERRARI 250 LM – $36.34M

Photo: 1964 FERRARI 250 LM

1964 FERRARI 250 LM, the sixth of just 32 Ferrari 250 LMs built, holds an iconic place in racing history. It triumphed at Le Mans in 1965, driven by Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt for the legendary NART team, making it the only privateer Ferrari to ever win the prestigious race.

This victory capped Ferrari’s six-year Le Mans winning streak and marked the car’s entry into six 24-hour races, including three at Le Mans and three at Daytona. After its last race in 1970, it was housed in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum for over 50 years before being auctioned at RM Sotheby’s in 2025, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a Le Mans-winning car.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, PARIS (2025)
• Final Price: $36.34 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, one of 32 built, only privateer Ferrari to win Le Mans, six Le Mans and Daytona entries.
• Special history: Won Le Mans in 1965 with Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt, capping Ferrari’s six-year streak.

5. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $38.11M

Photo: 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, the 17th Ferrari 250 GTO built, has a rich racing legacy. Ordered by French privateer Jo Schlesser, it secured second place in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, though Schlesser’s co-driver Henri Oreiller tragically lost his life in a crash. Ferrari rebuilt the car, which went on to win 12 of 14 Italian hillclimbs with Paolo Colombo in 1963. It was later owned by Ernesto Prinoth, who raced it through 1964-65, even surviving a rollover at Monza.

In 2010, the car was added to Fabrizio Violati’s esteemed collection of historic Ferraris. Renowned for its racing pedigree, it became one of the most raced 250 GTOs in existence. After Violati’s passing, it set a record price when sold at BONHAMS, MONTEREY in 2014.

Highlights:

• Sold at: BONHAMS, MONTEREY (2014)
• Final Price: $38.11 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare, One of the most raced 250 GTOs, strong racing pedigree, historic ownership by Fabrizio Violati.
• Special history: Finished second in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, won 12 of 14 Italian hillclimbs in 1963, and survived a rollover at Monza.

4. 1962 FERRARI 250GTO – $48.4M

Photo: 1962 FERRARI 250GTO

1962 FERRARI 250GTO, the third Ferrari 250 GTO ever built, etched its name in history when it became the most expensive car ever sold at auction, fetching nearly $50m at Monterey in 2018. This iconic car, the first to feature Scaglietti’s Series I coachwork, boasts distinct design elements such as narrow brake ducts, small radiator intake, and sail-panel vents.

It was originally meant for testing by Phil Hill, the US World Champion, and later purchased by Italian privateer Edoardo Lualdi-Gabardi, who dominated Italian racing, winning nine of ten national events, and claiming the 1962 Italian GP Championship.

With subsequent owners like Gianni Bulgari and Dan Margulies, the car achieved victory in races like the Targa Florio, Bologna-Raticosa Hillclimb, and the Redex Trophy. After its sale in 1967, 1962 FERRARI 250GTO continued its racing legacy with notable collectors like Lord Anthony Bamford and Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones. Dr. Gregory Whitten purchased it in the 2000s, showcasing its incredible originality and racing pedigree. Ferrari Classiche confirmed 1962 FERRARI 250GTO’s status as one of the finest examples in existence.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, MONTEREY (2018)
• Final Price: $48.4 million
• Why it’s valuable: Racing pedigree, historic ownership, original Series I coachwork, Ferrari Classiche certification.
• Special history: Conquered Italian racing by winning nine out of ten national events, securing the 1962 Italian GP Championship.

3. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti – $51.7M

Photo: 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, the only Ferrari 250 GTO/330 LM campaigned by the factory, set a remarkable $51.7m record at Sotheby’s 2023 auction, making it the most expensive Ferrari ever sold—though still short of the $60m estimates.

This legendary car was originally built with a 4.0-liter Lampredi engine, later upgraded to a more powerful 390bhp 6-Weber carburetor-fed unit. It made history in the 1962 Nürburgring 1000 KM, where it finished second with Mike Parkes and Willy Mairesse. Following adjustments to its engine and bodywork, it went on to compete in the 1962 Le Mans but suffered mechanical failure after a valiant recovery.

After passing through several owners, including Pietro Ferraro and Mario Tosi, it was restored to its former glory by Shelton Ferrari in Florida. The car’s impeccable restoration saw it win multiple awards, including Best-of-Show at Amelia Island in 2011. With a rich racing pedigree and unmatched provenance, it remains one of Ferrari’s most coveted and valuable models.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, NEW YORK (2023)
• Final Price: $48.4 million
• Why it’s valuable: Rare factory campaigned Ferrari, impeccable restoration, racing legacy.
• Special history: Competed in the 1962 Nürburgring 1000 KM and Le Mans, with a second-place finish at Nürburgring and a mechanical failure at Le Mans after a strong recovery.

2. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $53.91M

Photo: 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196

1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 shattered records in a private RM Sotheby’s sale at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart on February 1, 2025, securing an incredible $53.91M. This historic sale marked the W 196 R as the most expensive Grand Prix car ever sold and the second-most valuable car ever auctioned.

1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 is a unique and highly coveted example, being the first streamliner-bodied W 196 R ever offered for private sale. A symbol of racing heritage, this car was donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum by Daimler-Benz AG in 1965 and is considered one of the most significant racing machines in history. The auction saw fierce competition from collectors worldwide, ultimately resulting in a heated bidding war. The final price of $47.01M was elevated by premiums, setting a new benchmark. The sale’s proceeds will go toward enhancing the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum’s growth and development.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, STUTTGART (2025)
• Final Price: $53.91 million
• Why it’s valuable: Unique streamliner-bodied, racing heritage, significant historical importance.
• Special history: Donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum by Daimler-Benz AG in 1965, one of the most significant racing machines ever.

1. 1955 MERCEDES-BENZ 300 SLR UHLENHAUT COUPÉ – $143M

Photo: 1955 MERCEDES-BENZ 300 SLR UHLENHAUT COUPÉ

On May 5, 2022, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR ‘Uhlenhaut’ coupé set a new auction record, selling for $143 million, nearly three times the previous high made it as the most expensive cars ever sold. Created by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, it was based on the W196R Formula 1 car, with only two prototypes made. Mercedes-Benz had long declared they would never sell them.

The second prototype, known as ‘Red,’ was used by Uhlenhaut as his personal company car, famously making the trip between Stuttgart and Munich in under two hours. After being restored in 1986, it appeared at prestigious events, including Pebble Beach and the German Grand Prix.

The proceeds from the sale went to establish the Mercedes-Benz Fund, supporting scholarships in environmental science and decarbonization. While this Uhlenhaut coupé set a record, Stirling Moss’s W196S ‘722’ may eventually surpass it, continuing Mercedes-Benz’s legacy as a maker of priceless racing cars.

Highlights:

• Sold at: RM SOTHEBY’S, STUTTGART (2022)
• Final Price: $143 million
• Why it’s valuable: Ultra-Rare (only two prototypes), historical significance, association with Rudolf Uhlenhaut, prestigious events.
• Special history: Used as Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s personal company car, famously completing the Stuttgart-Munich trip in under two hours, and restored in 1986 before appearing at top events.

Final Word

Some cars are built to drive. A rare few are built to make history. The ones that truly stand apart aren’t just machines—they’re stories on wheels, wrapped in speed, legacy, and legend. When a car sells for tens of millions, it’s not just about horsepower or design. It’s about what it represents. These cars are rolling time capsules, and for the lucky few who own them, they’re not just investments—they’re pieces of history that will never be built again.