
For car enthusiasts, auctioned classic cars represent a golden opportunity to witness or even acquire some of the most remarkable vehicles in automotive history. Classic car auctions attract buyers from around the world, eager to bid on rare and coveted models.
These events showcase the pinnacle of engineering, design, and nostalgia, all wrapped into one exciting experience. Some of the most valuable and iconic cars ever sold have crossed the auction block, setting records and creating lasting memories.
Let’s take a look at some of the most notable auctioned classic cars that have made history.
Most Notable Auctioned Classic Cars: #1. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
One of the most talked-about auctioned classic cars is the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. Often considered the holy grail of classic cars, this model has gained legendary status among collectors.
Its combination of limited production (only 36 were made), racing pedigree, and stunning design makes it highly desirable. The Ferrari 250 GTO set a record in 2018 when it was sold at auction for an astounding $48.4 million.
What makes this particular car so special? Besides its rarity, the Ferrari 250 GTO was designed to dominate on the racetrack, and it did just that. It won numerous races in the 1960s, including the Tour de France Automobile multiple times.
Its aerodynamic shape, powerful V12 engine, and lightweight build contributed to its success. Today, it is one of the most prized vehicles ever sold at classic car auctions.
2. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti
The allure of Ferrari continues with another jaw-dropping sale – the 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti. In 2016, this rare Ferrari fetched a price of over $35 million at auction, making it one of the highest-priced auctioned classic cars ever.
What sets this Ferrari apart from others is its racing heritage. This model competed in the Mille Miglia and other prestigious races, placing Ferrari at the forefront of motorsport excellence.
Besides its racing success, the 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti has stunning design elements. The sleek bodywork, designed by Scaglietti, features smooth curves and aerodynamic efficiency that make it a timeless masterpiece. With a top speed of over 186 mph, this Ferrari was incredibly fast for its time, and its legacy remains strong in the world of classic car auctions.
3. 1964 Aston Martin DB5
Aston Martin is synonymous with British elegance and sophistication, and no model embodies that better than the 1964 Aston Martin DB5. Famously known as James Bond’s car in the film Goldfinger, the DB5 has become an icon in both the automotive and entertainment worlds.
Its presence at classic car auctions has always generated attention, and in 2019, a DB5 equipped with the original Bond gadgets sold for $6.4 million.
Beyond its association with the legendary British spy, the Aston Martin DB5 is admired for its craftsmanship and design. Its 4.0-liter inline-six engine provides plenty of power, while its luxurious interior provides both comfort and style.
4. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196
Another car that made waves at classic car auctions was the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196. This car is noteworthy not just for its beauty but also for its historical importance in Formula One racing. Driven by legends like Juan Manuel Fangio, the W196 won two World Championships and cemented Mercedes-Benz as a dominant force in motorsports.
In 2013, this piece of racing history was sold at auction for nearly $30 million. The W196 is one of the few surviving models from that era, making it a rare find.
It features innovative technology for its time, like fuel injection and all-independent suspension, which gave it a competitive edge on the racetrack. The W196’s success and rarity make it one of the most striking auctioned classic cars.
5. 1935 Duesenberg SSJ
American luxury automaker Duesenberg created some of the most opulent cars of the early 20th century, and the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ is a prime example. This model was not just a car; it was a status symbol.
Only two SSJs were ever produced, making it one of the rarest cars on the planet. One of these two was owned by Hollywood legend Gary Cooper, adding to its allure.
At a 2018 auction, the Duesenberg SSJ sold for $22 million, setting a record for an American car. Its appeal comes from its art deco design and impressive performance, displaying a top speed of 140 mph – a remarkable feat for its time. The Duesenberg SSJ remains one of the most coveted cars in classic car auctions.
6. 1962 Shelby 260 Cobra
The Shelby Cobra is one of the most famous American sports cars, and the 1962 Shelby 260 Cobra is the car that started it all. Carroll Shelby’s collaboration with Ford resulted in a lightweight, powerful roadster that could take on the best European cars of the time. The Cobra’s combination of speed, handling, and aggressive styling made it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
In 2016, the very first Shelby Cobra ever built sold for $13.75 million at auction. This model was special because it was a prototype (meaning it played an important role in the development of the Cobra line).
7. 1956 Aston Martin DBR1
Yet another Aston Martin makes the list, this time the 1956 Aston Martin DBR1. The DBR1 was Aston Martin’s answer to Ferrari in endurance racing, and it achieved success by winning the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans, among other prestigious races. Only five DBR1s were ever built, making it an exceptionally rare car.
In 2017, a DBR1 was sold at auction for $22.5 million, making it the most expensive British car ever auctioned. Its status as a Le Mans winner and its limited production make the DBR1 a highly sought-after car in classic car auctions. Collectors are drawn to its racing history, timeless design, and the craftsmanship that Aston Martin is known for.
8. 1931 Bugatti Type 41 Royale
One of the most luxurious and extravagant cars ever made, the 1931 Bugatti Type 41 Royale, is a testament to Bugatti’s ambition to create the ultimate luxury car. The Royale was enormous, with a 12.7-liter engine designed to power airplanes. Only six were ever made, and they were sold exclusively to royalty and other elite clients.
In 1987, a Bugatti Royale sold for $9.8 million, which was an astronomical sum at the time. The car’s sheer size, opulence, and rarity have made it one of the most talked-about auctioned classic cars. Even today, the Royale continues to be a symbol of luxury and exclusivity in the world of classic cars.
The Appeal of Auctioning Classic Cars
The appeal of auctioned classic cars lies in the unique opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history. For those who consign a classic car for auction, it’s a chance to see their prized possession go to a new home, often for a record-setting price. Classic car auctions bring together a passionate community of buyers and sellers who share a deep appreciation for these iconic vehicles.
Whether it’s a rare Ferrari, an American muscle car, or a luxurious Bugatti, the excitement of bidding on a classic car is unmatched. The cars mentioned here are just a few of the many remarkable vehicles that have crossed the auction block, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classic car auctions.