In the three years since, the collector car auction scene has witnessed remarkable developments—most notably the record-breaking sale of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe in 2022, a transaction that captivated headlines worldwide.
This makes it the perfect moment to update our list of the top 50. The robust performance of the market in recent years has resulted in numerous cars falling off the list, while the latest additions highlight the vehicles expected to dominate the market in the near future.
It’s important to note that some private sales have exceeded these auction prices, such as the rumored near-$80 million paid for the Ferrari 250GTO 4153GT.
50. 1956 Ferrari 250GT Tour de France, $13,200,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2015
The tragic 1955 Le Mans disaster prompted the FIA to prioritize dual-purpose grand touring racing cars. This shift inspired Ferrari to task Scaglietti with creating a series of 250GT competition cars.
Chassis 0557GT was the fifth of only seven first-series Scaglietti-bodied competition Berlinettas. With Alfonso de Portago at the helm, this car clinched victory in the 1956 ten-day Tour de France Auto, thus giving rise to the TdF name.
It later triumphed at the 1956 Rome GP. Restored in the early 1990s, it won the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 1994 and received the Platinum Award at the 2004 Cavallino Classic.
49. 1953 Jaguar C-Type, $13,200,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2015
Ecurie Ecosse, the Scottish privateer team, laid the groundwork for its legendary Le Mans victories in 1956 and 1957 with the Jaguar D-type. However, its earlier success stemmed from the C-type XKC 052.
This car, the second of three final racers built for the 1953 Le Mans, featured upgrades over its 1952 counterparts, including a lightweight thin-gauge aluminum body.
As the pinnacle of C-type development, it secured fourth place at Le Mans in 1953 before being retired from racing in 1959.
Restored with a new body the following year, it was auctioned in concours condition, still equipped with its original XK straight-six engine.
48. 1957 Jaguar XKSS, $13,205,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2023
The Jaguar XKSS was born from surplus D-types housed at Jaguar’s Browns Lane factory in Coventry. XKSS 707 is one of just 16 original road cars built in 1957.
Initially, it began life as D-type XKD 564, ordered by Ferrari racer Lou Brero Sr., who tragically passed away before receiving it.
After its import to the U.S., the car briefly joined Lord Bamford’s collection in the U.K. and later changed hands several times.
It competed in the inaugural Le Mans Classic in 1978 and the Mille Miglia in 2004.
47. 1961 Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato, $13,315,899, Bonhams, 2018
Chassis 2 VEV, a standout at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed auction, was the seventh British car to surpass the $10 million mark.
Out of the 19 DB4GT Zagatos produced, only three were built in DP209 lightweight racing specification, and this is one of them.
It participated in the 1961 Le Mans under John Ogier’s Essex Wire Racing Team but retired after three hours due to engine issues.
In 1962, Jim Clark crashed it into John Surtees’ Ferrari 250GTO at Goodwood. After its racing career ended in the late 1960s, it was restored in 1993 following a road accident, reverting to its 1962 specification before being sold at Bonhams.
46. 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupé, $13,425,000, Gooding & Company, Amelia Island, 2022
The Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupé became the most expensive French car ever sold at auction when it fetched $13.42 million at Amelia Island in 2022.
Of the ten Teardrop Coupés built on the T150-C-SS chassis, chassis 9220 stands out as one of only two with dramatic all-aluminum coachwork and fully enclosed skirted front fenders.
It debuted at the Concours d’Elegance Fémina in Paris in 1938, winning the Prix d’Excellence.
After changing hands among influential collectors, the car was restored to its original specification and exhibited at Pebble Beach in 2005. It later claimed Best of Show honors at Amelia Island in 2007.
45. 1960 Ferrari 250GT SWB Competizione, $13,500,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2016
Chassis 1759GT, one of the earliest Ferrari SWB competition Berlinettas, was constructed between January and March 1960. Designed specifically for the Le Mans 24 Hours, it placed seventh in the prestigious race.
Before its entry, the car was rigorously tested by Ferrari factory drivers, including Phil Hill, Wolfgang von Trips, and Richie Ginther.
After its time at Le Mans, it was sold to Dr. Schur in the U.S. and subsequently changed hands through several owners during the following decades.
During this period, it competed in events such as the Ferrari Club’s Hillclimb in Virginia City and raced annually at Laguna Seca in California from 1975 to 1980.
Fully restored in 2005, the car was returned to its original Le Mans livery and participated in numerous prestigious events, including the 2007 Cavallino Classic.
44. 1998 McLaren F1 (LM Spec), $13,750,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2015
Chassis 073 was originally a standard McLaren F1 but later converted to LM specification by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), making it one of the most coveted examples of the legendary model.
MSO aimed to enhance Gordon Murray’s iconic design by incorporating racing-derived parts from the F1 GTR, upgrading the engine, wheels, suspension, and interior, and adding high-downforce bodywork.
To complete the transformation, the transmission tunnel was signed by Murray himself. This car was the penultimate example of the 64 road-going F1s produced and had been driven just 13,048 miles when it went to auction in 2015.
43. 1962 Shelby Cobra 260 Roadster, $13,750,000, Monterey, 2016
Described as “the most important American sports car in history,” chassis CSX2000 justifies the title. This car was the very first Shelby ever made, marking the inception of a brand that would become legendary.
Built by Carroll Shelby after his racing career ended due to health concerns, CSX2000 was the realization of his dream to create a competitive car bearing his name.
For a time, it was the sole Shelby in existence, cleverly repainted multiple times during press events to give the illusion of a larger fleet.
After five decades in Shelby’s personal possession, the car was offered to RM Sotheby’s to support the Carroll Hall Shelby Trust, fulfilling Shelby’s wishes.
42. 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider, $14,030,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2024
One of just five genuine long-chassis Touring Spiders still in existence, chassis 412027 has a storied history of ownership by notable collectors such as Vojta Mashek, Ben Moser, and Fred Simeone.
Over its lifetime, the car achieved several accolades, including Best of Show at Villa d’Este in 1996 and First in Class at Pebble Beach in 2000.
Its journey took an unexpected turn in 2022 when it was stolen in a dramatic heist, only to be recovered in 2023. The car was subsequently offered for sale during the 2024 Monterey Car Week by Gooding & Company.
41. 1970 Porsche 917K Coupé, $14,080,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2017
Built in 1969, Porsche 917 chassis 024 faced an early setback when it was wrecked and scrapped by February 1970. However, it was rebuilt in April that year to serve as a Le Mans training car.
During its first test session, Mike Hailwood and Brian Redman drove the car, with Redman clocking the fastest time.
Its story took a cinematic turn when Jo Siffert, after purchasing the car from Porsche, leased it to Steve McQueen’s Solar Productions for the 1971 film Le Mans.
The 917 appeared in racing scenes battling Ferrari 512s and even served as a camera car. Following Siffert’s death in 1971, the car was sold to Pierre Prieur of Saclay, France, and stored in a warehouse near Paris for decades.
Rediscovered in 2001, it retained its iconic Gulf livery. A Swiss collector purchased and restored the car in 2002 before selling it in 2017 after 15 years of ownership.
40. Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato, $14,300,000, RM Sotheby’s, New York, 2015
Chassis 0186R may not boast the extensive racing pedigree of other DB4GT Zagatos, but it remains one of the most coveted of the 19 examples ever built.
Originally shipped to Sydney, Australia, in 1962, the car had a brief yet impressive racing career, finishing no lower than fourth overall in any race except for one DNF. It secured six victories, including a first-place finish in the 1962 South Pacific GT Championship.
After retiring from racing, 0186R gained further acclaim when it was purchased by Peter Read, who collaborated with Zagato for a meticulous two-year restoration to its original factory specifications.
Post-restoration, the car became a star on the international concours circuit, earning numerous awards, including at the Louis Vuitton Concours and Bagatelle Concours d’Elegance in 2002.
Its accolades continued with appearances at the 2007 Villa d’Este, Pebble Beach, and Niello Concours, and later at the San Francisco Presidio Concours and Carmel-by-the-Sea Concours in 2009.
39. 1964 Ferrari 250LM Coupé, $14,300,000, RM Auctions, New York, 2013
The Ferrari 250LM Coupé, chassis 6107, accounted for 22% of the total value of RM Sotheby’s 2013 Art of the Automobile auction, achieving a record-breaking price for this model at the time.
It was the 24th of 32 examples built, and its first owner in 1964 opted to enjoy it as a road car rather than for competition purposes. For years, it cruised the roads of California before embarking on a racing career in 1968.
The car was repainted in a deep-red livery and entered into the Daytona 24 Hours, where it finished eighth overall and first in its class. By the mid-1970s, it retired from racing and was acquired by a Japanese collector in 1983.
Hidden from public view for decades, it resurfaced in 2013, offered in its original yet carefully preserved condition, with just 10,000 miles on the odometer.
38. 1966 Ferrari 275GTB/C, $14,520,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2017
Chassis 09051 is the sixth of only 12 Ferrari 275GTB/C examples ever built, making it an exceedingly rare piece of automotive history.
It enjoyed a robust racing career in Italy between 1966 and 1970, claiming victory in its debut at the Mugello 500km, part of the Sports Car World Championship. In the same year, it achieved seven additional class wins across nine events.
In 1967 and 1968, the car continued to dominate, winning three Italian hill climbs and the Trofeo Città di Orvieto. After 1970, it changed hands among several UK owners before heading to the U.S. in 1993.
A show-quality restoration in 2007 returned it to its original 1966 livery, earning it second in class at the Pebble Beach Concours.
A final restoration in 2013 further elevated its appeal before it was sold by Gooding & Company in 2017, accompanied by a detailed history curated by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini.
37. 2003 Ferrari F2003-GA Formula 1, $14,880,000, RM Sotheby’s, Geneva, 2022
The F2003-GA chassis 229 is a car of legendary status, driven by Michael Schumacher during his title-winning 2003 Formula 1 season.
It is one of only four Ferrari F1 chassis Schumacher drove to victory five or more times, with wins at the Spanish, Austrian, Canadian, Italian, and U.S. Grands Prix.
In 2022, Ferrari’s Corse Clienti division conducted a complete mechanical overhaul of the car. Afterward, Schumacher’s son, Mick, tested it at the Fiorano Circuit, ensuring it was in track-ready condition before being consigned to auction.
36. 1961 Ferrari 250GT California SWB Spyder (Closed Headlight), $15,180,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2014
Chassis 2903 GT is one of just 56 Ferrari SWB California Spyders ever produced, and one of only 37 equipped with closed headlights.
This particular example also features the rare optional hardtop, further enhancing its desirability. It debuted at the 1961 Salon de l’Automobile and later found its first long-term owner in the late 1960s.
By 1970, the car had arrived in the United States, where it was owned briefly by American actress Barbara Hershey. During her ownership, it mysteriously went missing for a month before being recovered and subsequently sold.
Over the next decade, the car was owned by Spencer Stillman and changed hands several times afterward.
In the early 1990s, actor Charles Wegner oversaw its restoration, after which it was entered into events such as the Cavallino Classic and Monterey Ferrari Concours.
In 2014, the car was awarded Ferrari’s prestigious Red Book classification, solidifying its status as a highly sought-after collector’s item.
Its history of famous owners, concours success, and its intriguing month-long disappearance made it a centerpiece at Pebble Beach in 2014.
35. 1995 McLaren F1, $15,620,000, Bonhams, Monterey, 2017
Chassis number 044 is one of only seven McLaren F1 hypercars federalized for road use in the United States. This particular car was the first to be imported stateside and was the 37th of 64 road-going McLaren F1s ever produced.
During Bonhams’ annual Quail Lodge Auction, the winning bid was reportedly placed by “a man with a very long history connected to F1.”
The significance of the chassis number strongly hints that the buyer was Sir Lewis Hamilton, whose race number is famously 44.
This iconic British hypercar boasts an exceptional history. It was originally owned by American business magnate Herb Chambers, who acquired it new after visiting McLaren’s Woking assembly line in 1996.
The McLaren F1 held the record as the world’s fastest production car for nearly 15 years, only losing the title in 2005 to the Koenigsegg CCR.
Its unparalleled performance and historical significance made it a fitting acquisition for a seven-time F1 World Champion.
34. 1957 Ferrari 250TR Spyder, $16,390,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2011
Chassis number 0666 is a Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa prototype built on a 290MM chassis.
It made its debut at the 1957 Nürburgring 1000km, where it sported Scaglietti bodywork resembling the Ferrari 500TR and finished in tenth place, driven by Masten Gregory. This initial outing hinted at the racing success that would follow.
Later in 1957, the car was re-bodied with the iconic Scaglietti pontoon fenders that became a hallmark of the 250TR. In this configuration, it achieved podium finishes at the Buenos Aires and Caracas 1000km races.
Despite its racing pedigree, chassis 0666 encountered challenges at major events such as the Le Mans 24 Hours and the Sebring 12 Hours, recording DNFs in each.
However, its siblings in the 250TR lineup claimed victories at Le Mans in 1958, 1960, and 1961, cementing the model’s legacy.
33. 1962 Ferrari 250GT Berlinetta Speciale, $16,500,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2015
Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro at just 21 years old, the Ferrari 250GT Berlinetta Speciale (chassis 3269 GT) is a unique masterpiece. Giugiaro’s design was inspired by Ferrari’s groundbreaking “shark-nose” 156 Grand Prix car, as well as the TRI/LM and 246SP models.
This singular creation is widely celebrated as an enduring symbol of Italian automotive design and artistry.
The car came into existence when Nuccio Bertone, founder of Carrozzeria Bertone, acquired a 250GT SWB chassis from Ferrari for his personal use.
Frustrated with Ferrari’s preference for Pininfarina, Bertone aimed to showcase his company’s design prowess. This car’s provenance was further enhanced by its brief appearance in the film noir Marlowe, starring James Garner.
Chassis 3269 GT has undergone two restorations, one in the 1980s and another in the 1990s, which returned it to its original configuration.
The car earned Best of Show honors at the 1996 FCA event and the 1997 Louis Vuitton Concours d’Elegance, solidifying its reputation as an icon of automotive excellence.
32. 1961 Ferrari 250GT California SWB Spyder (Closed Headlight), $16,830,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2015
Chassis 3095 GT is regarded as one of the most desirable examples of the 250GT California Spyder, thanks to its fully original condition and rare closed-headlight design.
Originally delivered in metallic blue, the car was later repainted in Ferrari’s iconic red, marking its only modification.
While the car lacks significant racing or celebrity provenance, rumors suggest it was once owned by Gunter Sachs, Brigitte Bardot’s husband.
Over the years, it passed through various European and American collectors before joining the esteemed collection of Scottish billionaire Lord Laidlaw.
In 2014, the car gained widespread attention when it was used as Kimi Räikkönen’s parade car at the Belgian Grand Prix. The following year, it was consigned to Gooding & Company’s Pebble Beach auction.
With Ferrari Classiche certification and documentation by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini, chassis 3095 GT fetched a price within its projected range of $16 million to $18 million.
31. 1960 Ferrari 250GT SWB California Spyder by Scaglietti, $17,055,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2024
Chassis 1795GT, the very first 250GT SWB California Spyder built, was offered at public sale for the first time in 2024.
The car made its debut at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing factory-fitted features like a competition-spec Tipo 168 V12 engine, covered headlights, and a removable hardtop.
Originally finished in Grigio over a red leather interior, it later returned to Maranello to receive a black leather interior before being delivered to its first owner, British-born racing driver and Geneva resident John Gordon Bennett.
Maintained in outstanding original condition, this matching-numbers Spyder was Ferrari Classiche-certified and became a star attraction at RM Sotheby’s 2024 Monterey auction.
Its historical significance and exceptional preservation made it one of the most anticipated lots of the event.
30. 1961 Ferrari 250GT California SWB Spyder (Closed Headlight), $17,160,000, Gooding & Company, Amelia Island, 2016
Chassis 2871 GT, a closed-headlight 1961 Ferrari 250GT California SWB Spyder, was last seen publicly in 1983 at the Auto Club d’Italia’s Ferrari Days event. Prior to its 2016 appearance at Amelia Island, it had never been offered for public sale.
This remarkable car had just three Italian owners since new, including the renowned 1960s industrial designer Gianfranco Frattini.
Aside from a brief cameo in the 1963 Oscar-winning film Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, the car remained relatively obscure during its early years.
Frattini eventually sold it in 1978 to artisan Terzo Dalia, who displayed it at events like Raid Ferrari d’Epoca and Ferrari Days. In 1985, it changed hands once again, staying with its final owner until being consigned for auction.
Originally finished in Rosso Cina, the car has never undergone a full restoration, instead being meticulously maintained in its original condition and kept in excellent working order.
29. 1964 Ferrari 250LM Coupé, $17,164,664, Artcurial, Paris, 2023
Chassis 5901 is a 1964 Ferrari 250LM Coupé with a special distinction: it was the last Ferrari to win Le Mans outright, a title it held for nearly 60 years until Ferrari’s 2023 victory at La Sarthe.
This car is the tenth of only 32 examples produced. Originally commissioned by Luigi Chinetti’s North American Racing Team (NART) as a reserve vehicle for the 1966 Daytona 24 Hours, chassis 5901 never saw competition use, which preserved its original driveline, bodywork, and chassis in exceptional condition.
After passing through several American collectors, the car returned to Europe in 1997. It underwent a meticulous restoration by DK Engineering and remained under French ownership for two decades before being offered for sale at Rétromobile in 2023.
28. 1964 Ferrari 250LM Coupé, $17,600,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2012
Chassis 6105, another 1964 Ferrari 250LM Coupé, was ordered by Ron Fry, a privateer racing driver and a member of the Fry chocolate family.
Fry’s 250LM became a successful racing companion, securing numerous victories, including a win at Castle Combe in 1964.
Fry’s achievements with the car were so significant that Enzo Ferrari personally awarded him a medal in recognition of his efforts.
Before the 1967 motorsport season, Fry sold the car to David SD Skailes, who drove it to sixth overall at the 1967 Kyalami Nine Hours in South Africa.
Its racing career continued until 1984, after which it was sold to a collector in Japan, where it remained for 11 years.
The car later returned to the United States for a brief period before making its way back to Europe. It re-entered the racing world in the 2012 Le Mans Classic after a 30-year absence.
Ferrari Classiche certification confirms the car retains all its original components, and it was offered at auction by RM Sotheby’s with an exceptional level of originality for a racing car.
27. 1963 Ferrari 250GT SWB California Spider, $17,875,000, Mecum, Kissimmee, 2024
Chassis 4137GT, the final example of the 55 Ferrari 250GT SWB California Spiders built, left the Maranello factory in February 1963.
Designed by Sergio Scaglietti, it was shipped to the United States via Luigi Chinetti Motors of New York before being delivered to Charles Rezzaghi Motors in San Francisco, who sold it to its first owner, Andre Aldeghi of Minnesota.
The car passed through four more owners before undergoing an extensive restoration in 2001.
Following the restoration, it was showcased at the 2002 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Dr. Richard E. Workman purchased the car in 2010 and displayed it at several prestigious events throughout the 2010s, including The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and the Cavallino Classic.
It also featured in the 70th anniversary Ferrari display at Pebble Beach and at The Amelia.In 2024, 4137GT marked a new chapter when it crossed the auction block at Mecum’s Kissimmee sale.
The car was offered with Ferrari Classiche certification and a comprehensive report by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini.
26. 1959 Ferrari 250GT California LWB Alloy Spyder, $17,990,000, RM Sotheby’s, New York, 2017
Chassis 1451 GT is the second all-aluminum 1959 Ferrari 250GT California Spyder produced. Ordered by Luigi Chinetti, a three-time Le Mans winner and founder of Chinetti Motors and NART, the car was built for Bob Grossman, a gentleman driver from the United States.
Grossman piloted 1451 GT at the 1959 Le Mans 24 Hours as part of a trio of Ferraris entered by Chinetti.
In its competition specification, the car featured a lightweight Scaglietti body and a high-performance Tipo 128F V12 engine with high-lift cams, triple 40 DCL6 carburetors, and a competition-grade fuel system.
Grossman drove it to an impressive fifth-place overall finish and third in class at Le Mans.
After its racing career, the car passed through various American owners and enjoyed significant success on the international concours circuit, including a win at Pebble Beach in 1984.
In more recent years, the car was restored to its original Le Mans livery and granted Ferrari Classiche certification.
25. 1962 Ferrari 250GT SWB California Spyder (Covered Headlights), $18,045,000, Gooding & Company, Amelia Island, 2023
Chassis 3099GT accounted for approximately a quarter of Gooding & Company’s total $72.67 million sales at Amelia Island in 2023.
This car is one of only 37 SWB California Spyders equipped with covered headlights and was specifically built for the 1962 New York International Auto Show.
It is also the sole example finished in the striking Azzurro Metallizzato paint.
Initially, the car spent its early years in Hollywood before a crash in 1971 left it with significant damage to its suspension, braking, and exhaust systems.
In 1972, Charles Betz and Fred Peters acquired the car in its damaged state for a mere $2,400 and later repaired it.
Betz and Peters undertook a complete restoration of the car in the early 2000s and continued their long-term ownership until it was consigned in 2023.
The vehicle was presented with full Ferrari Classiche certification and had earned numerous concours accolades during their stewardship.
24. 1959 Ferrari 250GT California LWB Alloy Spyder, $18,150,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2016
Chassis 1603GT, the 42nd of 50 examples, stands as the most expensive LWB California Spyder ever sold at auction.
George Reed of Midlothian, Illinois, was its first owner, purchasing it through Chinetti Motors.
Between 1959 and 1961, Reed campaigned the car in notable events such as the Sebring 12 Hours, Nassau Trophy, Grosvenor’s Trophy, and at Road America.
At Sebring in 1960, Reed achieved a third-in-class and fifth-overall finish. After Reed sold it in 1964, the car changed hands again in 1969.
In 1984, Brian Brunkhorst restored the vehicle, painting it dark blue with a tan leather interior.
This restoration earned the car a first-in-class award at the 1989 Ferrari Club of America meeting. By 2001, Todd Morici had acquired the car, participating in the Ferrari Challenge and refinishing it in Sebring Silver.
The vehicle received Ferrari Classiche certification under Morici’s ownership, verifying its high level of originality.
A subsequent owner undertook a light restoration in 2010, which culminated in awards at Palm Beach in 2011. The car was consigned to auction in 2016.
23. 1954 Ferrari 375 Plus Spyder, $18,309,613, Bonhams, Monterey, 2014
Nicknamed the “fearsome four-nine,” this works Ferrari (chassis 0384) sold for $18.3 million, nearly half of the $38.4 million total achieved by Bonhams at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed auction.
The moniker refers to its 4.9-liter V12 engine, designed by Aurelio Lampredi. This engine had earlier secured Ferrari’s first Formula 1 victory at Silverstone in 1951, albeit in a 4.5-liter configuration.
José Froilán González piloted this chassis to a second Silverstone win in 1954. The car also competed at Le Mans and the Mille Miglia that year, with notable drivers such as Jim Kimberly, Troy Ruttman, Howard Hively, and Umberto Maglioli.
Following its racing career, the car fell into disrepair. It was eventually rescued and restored by Jacques Swaters, a Belgian racing driver and owner of the Ecurie Francorchamps team.
Swaters ensured the vehicle was reunited with its original V12 engine during the restoration process.
22. 1961 Ferrari 250GT California SWB Spyder, $18,405,440, Artcurial, Paris, 2015
Selling for $18.4 million, chassis 2935GT was the most expensive of the nine 250 California Spyders included in this ranking.
The car was showcased by Ferrari importer Franco-Britannic Autos at the 1961 Paris Motor Show, where it was purchased by French actor and director Gérard Blain.
Shortly after, Blain sold it to fellow actor Alain Delon, who registered the car in Monaco.
In 1964, Delon brought the car to California and later sold it. The Spyder subsequently passed through various owners, including other actors, before ending up in the collection of renowned French collector Jacques Baillon in 1971.
It remained in storage for decades until its reappearance in 2015.This example was the last closed-headlight SWB 250 California built by Maranello. Artcurial described it as “the Holy Grail of grand-touring Spiders,” owing to its exceptional originality.
21. 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Touring Berlinetta, $18,563,605, Artcurial, Paris, 2019
Chassis 412024 is the second of just five 8C 2900 B models constructed with Carrozzeria Touring Berlinetta bodies on the Lungo (LWB) platform. Details about its early history remain sparse.
Constructed in 1937 but never formally registered in Italy, the car is rumored to have been first owned by Galeazzo Ciano, Italy’s foreign minister and Benito Mussolini’s son-in-law.
In February 1939, the Alfa Romeo was shipped to London and listed for sale by dealer Jack Bartlett, with 5,000 miles on its odometer and a blue exterior.
Due to World War II, the car remained unsold and stayed with Bartlett until it reappeared in 1947, now painted silver. It subsequently won the 1947 Regent’s Park Concours and the 1948 Eastbourne Concours.
Later owners included Lord Ridley, who retained it until 1964, and Nigel Mann, who painted it red before selling it to Jan Martens in 1976.
Martens held the car until it went to auction in 2019. Despite a few color changes, the Alfa remained in remarkably original condition, earning accolades such as the Most Elegant Closed Car award in 2001 and Best of Show at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2018.
20. 2013 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W04, $18,815,000, RM Sotheby’s, Las Vegas, 2023
Lewis Hamilton’s 2013 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W04 achieved a final sale price of $18.8 million (£15.1 million) during RM Sotheby’s Las Vegas auction on November 17, 2023.
Pre-sale estimates anticipated the car would sell for between $10 million (£8 million) and $15 million (£12 million).
Known as chassis F1W04-04, this car played a crucial role in Hamilton’s 2013 season, appearing in 14 of the 19 races on the calendar.
Most notably, Hamilton drove it to victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, finishing ahead of Kimi Räikkönen. Additionally, the car secured four other podium finishes, laying the groundwork for Hamilton’s dominant performances throughout the remainder of the decade.
Retaining its original period livery, F1W04-04 is considered unique among modern Mercedes Grand Prix cars as it is not owned by Mercedes-Benz, team principal Toto Wolff, or Hamilton himself.
Its desirability is further enhanced by the preservation of its original 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine, allowing the car to remain track-capable for its future owner.
19. 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Lungo Touring Spider, $19,800,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2016
Despite its complex history, this Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Lungo Touring Spider became the most expensive Alfa Romeo ever sold at auction.
One of only seven Lungo Touring Spiders built, its known history was pieced together by renowned Alfa Romeo historian Simon Moore.
In 1949, amateur racer Mario Tavares Leite imported the car from Italy to Brazil, replacing most of the bodywork (except for the grille) and using it to win races during the 1949-1950 seasons.
Afterward, the car disappeared, reemerging later with its chassis shortened and a Chevrolet Corvette V8 installed for racing purposes.
Remarkably, the vehicle was reunited with its original Touring bodywork in 1997 after its chassis was re-lengthened, and the original drivetrain was restored.
The car underwent an award-winning restoration led by Tony Merrick, earning second in class at the Pebble Beach Concours in 1999. It also won Most Elegant Car at the Cavallino Classic in 2016.
This meticulous restoration was commissioned by esteemed American collectors Sam and Emily Mann, who acquired the car in 1994.
18. 1994 McLaren F1, $19,805,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2019
Chassis 018, the second of two road-going McLaren F1s upgraded to LM (Le Mans) specification by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), set the record for the highest price paid for a McLaren F1 at auction in 2019.
Originally finished in Midnight Blue Pearl with black trim, the car was delivered to its first owner in Japan in 1994. In 1999, a German collector purchased the car and commissioned MSO to carry out LM-spec upgrades.
These included Extra High-Downforce bodywork, a GTR-spec 6.1-liter V12 engine, additional radiators, a transmission cooler, revised suspension, 18-inch GTR wheels, a new exhaust system, and upgraded headlights.
The car was also repainted in Platinum Silver Metallic and received a beige leather interior.
The car passed through owners in Singapore in 2004 and New Zealand in 2007, where it remained under meticulous care and was serviced regularly by MSO. At the time of its auction, the car had only 13,352 miles on its odometer.
17. 1963 Aston Martin DP215, $21,455,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2018
In 1959, Aston Martin celebrated its World Sportscar Championship victory but subsequently halted its motorsport program to focus on road car development.
However, under pressure from dealers eager to boost sales, David Brown approved the creation of the Design Project series.
The DP215, one of four DB4GT-based “project cars,” was built as a Le Mans Works entry in 1963, evolving from the DP212 and DP214 prototypes.
Driven by Phil Hill and Lucien Bianchi, the DP215 achieved an astonishing 198.6 mph on the Mulsanne Straight. Unfortunately, the car retired after only two hours of racing and was retired from competition altogether.
After Aston Martin sold the car in 1974, it underwent a series of restorations spanning several owners.
Its then-owner replaced its transmission with a period-correct unit in the 2000s, completing its restoration. In recent decades, the DP215 has participated in events like Goodwood and the TT Revival.
16. 1995 McLaren F1, $20,465,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2021
With just 245 miles on the odometer, chassis 029 of the McLaren F1 broke records at Gooding & Company’s 2021 Pebble Beach Auction, selling for $20.4 million.
Estimated pre-sale at $15 million, the car drew attention for its exceptional condition and unique specifications.
Chassis 029 is the only McLaren F1 finished in Creighton Brown, paired with a Light Tan and Dark Brown leather interior.
Originally owned by a Japanese collector, the car was sold with a collection of original accessories, including a FACOM tool chest, titanium tool kit, custom luggage set, a TAG Heuer watch, and a copy of the Driving Ambition book that accompanied every new McLaren F1.
15. 1955 Jaguar D-Type, $21,780,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2016
The Jaguar D-Type was a groundbreaking racing car, boasting an aluminum monocoque chassis, all-around disc brakes, and an aerodynamically advanced body designed by Malcolm Sayer.
Created with the singular purpose of dominating the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the D-Type succeeded, securing three consecutive victories.
Chassis XKD 501 was the first D-Type to triumph at Le Mans, achieving victory in 1956.
It raced under the iconic blue livery of the Scottish privateer team Ecurie Ecosse, driven by Ninian Sanderson and Ron Flockhart. The duo completed the race at an average speed of 104.47 mph, securing their place in motorsport history.
After its momentous victory, XKD 501 had a mixed racing career, including a DNF at the 1957 Mille Miglia. In 1970, Sir Michael Nairn acquired the car and had it carefully restored to its Le Mans-winning specifications.
An American collector purchased it in 1999, showcasing it at Pebble Beach in 2002, where it won the Jaguar Competition class and the Road & Track Award.
When it was auctioned in 2016 by its third owner, it achieved the highest price ever paid for a British car at the time.
14. 1935 Duesenberg Model SSJ LaGrande Convertible, $22,000,000, Gooding & Company, Monterey, 2018
This Duesenberg represents the pinnacle of pre-war American luxury and performance, setting the record as the most expensive U.S.-built and pre-war car sold at auction.
Built in the twilight of Duesenberg’s existence, this Model SSJ, chassis 2594, was one of two short-wheelbase, supercharged examples produced as part of a PR campaign to revive the struggling marque.
This particular car was originally owned by Hollywood legend Gary Cooper, who reportedly kept it through the late 1930s.
The “SSJ” designation reflects its special short-wheelbase and supercharged specifications. Powered by a 7.0-liter straight-eight engine producing 400 horsepower, the car was an engineering marvel for its time.
From 1949, the car was owned by only two individuals: Briggs Cunningham and later Miles Collier, who acquired it as part of Cunningham’s collection in 1986.
Its sale at Pebble Beach in 2018 marked the first time the SSJ had been publicly available in nearly seven decades.
13. 1956 Ferrari 290MM, $22,005,000, RM Sotheby’s, Los Angeles, 2018
Ferrari 290MM chassis 0628 has an illustrious history as a Scuderia Ferrari Works car, debuting at the 1956 Mille Miglia.
Driven by Louis Klemantaski and Peter Collins, it secured second place in the event, trailing only Eugenio Castellotti. Luigi Musso and Juan Manuel Fangio, also driving Ferraris, rounded out the top four.
The car’s 1956 season also included appearances at the Nürburgring 1000km and the Targa Florio, where it placed fourth, though it retired from both the Swedish Grand Prix and the Nürburgring event due to mechanical issues.
In 1957, 0628 claimed third place at the Buenos Aires 1000km before retiring from the Sebring 12 Hours, its final outing as a Works car.
After its Works career, the 290MM was raced privately and later participated in historic racing, rallies, and concours events.
In 2011, it underwent a restoration and certification by Ferrari Classiche, cementing its place as a revered piece of motorsport history.
12. 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider, $22,005,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2022
Chassis 0598CM, one of two Ferrari 410 Sports built for the 1955 Carrera Panamericana, gained fame through its association with Carroll Shelby, who achieved more victories in this car than any other in his career.
The auction included trophies from Shelby’s first and last wins in the car, from 1956 and 1958 respectively.
The Carrera Panamericana was canceled following the Le Mans disaster, so the car made its debut in the 1956 World Sportscar Championship, driven by legends such as Juan Manuel Fangio and Eugenio Castellotti.
After its debut in Argentina, it returned to Maranello for modifications before being sold to Edgar Racing in the U.S., where Shelby and other drivers, including Phil Hill and Richie Ginther, campaigned it.
With its illustrious racing pedigree and connection to motorsport greats, 0598CM remains a celebrated symbol of Ferrari’s racing dominance.
11. 1956 Aston Martin DBR1/1, $22,550,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2017
The Aston Martin DBR1 is widely regarded as one of the marque’s greatest racing achievements.
Designed by Ted Cutting and developed to challenge Ferrari in endurance racing, the DBR1 debuted following a rule change in 1955 that allowed manufacturers to build cars without road-going counterparts.
Chassis DBR1/1 earned its place in motorsport lore at the 1959 Nürburgring 1000km. Stirling Moss, paired with Jack Fairman, overcame a critical mistake that dropped them to fourth place mid-race.
Moss’s legendary comeback secured victory, with lap times over a minute faster than his record in a Mercedes 300SL.
Although DBR1/1 did not win Le Mans itself, its sister car, DBR1/2, fulfilled Aston Martin owner David Brown’s dream of victory just three weeks later.
When DBR1/1 was auctioned in 2017, it set a new benchmark as the most expensive British car ever sold.
10. 1964 Ferrari 275GTB/C Speciale, $26,400,000, RM Auctions, Monterey, 2014
The Ferrari 275GTB faced the formidable challenge of following the legendary 250GTO.
Introduced in 1964, it featured significant advancements, including independent rear suspension, a transaxle, a fully synchromesh gearbox, and the Tipo 213 3.3-liter V12, marking the final evolution of the Colombo V12 engine.
To meet homologation requirements, Ferrari produced three Speciale versions of the 275GTB, including chassis 06701. These cars featured lightweight aluminum bodywork, enhanced power, a distinctive bonnet scoop, and cooling ducts for the brakes.
After its initial time with Ferrari and several European owners, chassis 06701 found a long-term home with Michel Pobrejeski in Boulogne-Billancourt, France, where it remained for 25 years.
It was then acquired by Ferrari collector Brandon Wang, who entered the car in historic races and restored it over several years, completing the project in 1998.
Since then, the car has rarely been seen in public, making select appearances at events such as the 2002 Ferrari Club of America National Concours, the 2005 Cavallino Classic, and the Monterey Historic Races at Laguna Seca.
9. 1967 Ferrari 275GTB/4 NART Spyder, $27,500,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2013
This Ferrari 275GTB/4 NART Spyder has a unique history tied to American businessman Eddie Smith Sr., whose fondness for convertibles led him to own one of the rarest and most coveted Ferraris ever produced.
The car’s existence is owed to Luigi Chinetti, U.S. Ferrari importer and racing driver, who persuaded Enzo Ferrari to create convertible versions of the 275GTB Berlinetta.
When these became available, Chinetti promptly contacted Smith, convincing him to trade in his Berlinetta for one of the ten NART Spyders produced. Smith took delivery in 1968.
Steve McQueen, owner of the first NART Spyder, attempted to purchase Smith’s car after his own was rear-ended, but Smith refused.
Over the years, other high-profile individuals tried to buy the car, but Smith remained steadfast. It stayed in his possession until his death in 2007.
Six years later, Eddie Smith Jr. decided to part with the car, feeling it had been “imprisoned” in the family garage. The proceeds from its sale were donated to charity in honor of his father.
8. 1956 Ferrari 290MM Spyder, $28,050,000, RM Sotheby’s, New York, 2015
Ferrari dominated the World Sportscar Championship in 1953 and 1954 but faced defeat in 1955 at the hands of Mercedes-Benz’s 300SLR.
In response, Enzo Ferrari introduced the 290MM in 1956, a purpose-built Works prototype designed to reclaim the championship.
This car, chassis 0626, was piloted by a roster of legendary drivers, including Juan Manuel Fangio, Phil Hill, and Wolfgang von Trips.
Their combined efforts led Ferrari to recapture the championship that year, with notable finishes such as fourth at the Mille Miglia, third at the Nürburgring 1000km, and second at the Swedish Grand Prix.
In 1957, drivers like Masten Gregory, Eugenio Castellotti, and Luigi Musso continued the car’s successful run, securing another championship for Ferrari.
Following its racing career, chassis 0626 was imported to the United States by Luigi Chinetti, then moved to France in 1970 as part of Pierre Bardinon’s renowned Collection Mas du Clos, where it stayed for 33 years. The car was sold in 2003 and later consigned to auction in 2015.
7. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196, $29,650,095, Bonhams, Goodwood, 2013
In 2013, the legendary Mercedes-Benz W196 that carried Juan Manuel Fangio to his second World Championship became the most expensive car ever sold at auction, and it remains the most valuable Formula 1 car to date.
Chassis 00006 was the first open-wheel “slipper-body” Mercedes F1 car to win in the post-war era, clinching victory at the German Grand Prix with Fangio at the wheel.
It followed this triumph with another win in Switzerland, making it the only surviving W196 to have won two championship-qualifying races. Karl Kling later drove the car in its final race at Monza in 1955.
After its racing career, the car was displayed by the Daimler-Benz Exhibition Department at various events before eventually being sold.
For years, the W196 remained out of public view, appearing only briefly at the Monaco Historic GPs in 1999 and 2000.
By the time of its 2013 sale, its desirability was heightened by the fact that it was the only W196 not owned by Daimler-Benz or a major museum.
6. 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta, $30,255,000, Bonhams, Monterey, 2023
In 2023, Ferrari 412P chassis 0854 became the fourth most expensive Ferrari ever sold at auction, achieving $30.25 million at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering.
This marked the first time in 25 years that a 412P had been publicly auctioned. Despite the significant sum, the car sold below its $40 million estimate, reflecting a cooling market.
Chassis 0854 is one of the most significant competition Ferraris ever offered at auction, distinguished as the only 412P retaining its original bodywork, driveline, and chassis.
Delivered to Colonel Ronnie Hoare’s Maranello Concessionaires, it was raced by luminaries such as Richard Attwood, Piers Courage, Lucien Bianchi, Jo Siffert, and David Piper in events like the Le Mans 24 Hours and the Swedish Grand Prix.
In 1969, the car was damaged by fire at the East London 500km due to a fuel leak. However, its original alloy bodywork was unharmed as it had been temporarily replaced with lightweight GRP panels.
The consignor acquired the car in 2005 and spent nine years meticulously restoring it to its original configuration.
It has since made notable appearances, including the 2015 edition of The Quail and the 2019 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
5. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Spyder, $35,821,289, Artcurial, Paris, 2016
This 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Spyder, one of just four ever built, holds the record as the most expensive car sold at auction in Europe, following its sale at Rétromobile in 2016.
Chassis 0674 began its life as a 315S in early 1957 and made its debut at the Sebring 12 Hours, where it finished in sixth place.
This event served as a precursor to the car’s performance at the Mille Miglia, where Wolfgang von Trips drove it to a second-place finish.
However, the achievement was overshadowed by the tragic death of Alfonso de Portago during the same race.
The car was subsequently converted to 335 Sport specifications, including an upgraded engine, and entered into the Le Mans 24 Hours with drivers Mike Hawthorn and Luigi Musso.
Mechanical problems forced the car to retire, allowing Ecurie Ecosse’s Jaguar D-Type to take the victory.
Despite this setback, chassis 0674 achieved fourth place at the Swedish GP and second at the Venezuelan GP, contributing to Ferrari’s victory in the 1957 Constructors’ Championship.
In 1958, the car was sold to Luigi Chinetti, Ferrari’s US importer, and raced in North America. It secured a win at the Cuban GP with Stirling Moss and Masten Gregory at the wheel and competed in various other US sports car races.
In 1960, Robert N. Dusek acquired the car, and it remained in his possession until 1970, when it was sold to Pierre Bardinon. Bardinon had the car restored to its original bodywork and livery by Fantuzzi in 1981.
The Ferrari remained a centerpiece of Bardinon’s renowned collection of racing Ferraris until its historic auction in 2016.
4. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series 1, $38,115,000, Bonhams, Monterey, 2014
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is widely regarded as one of the most desirable cars ever built, and chassis 3851 GT is no exception.
This car, the 17th GTO produced (or 19th if the two 4.0-liter 330 GTOs are included), played a pivotal role in the model’s celebrated racing history.
Initially delivered to French privateer Jo Schlesser, the car made its competition debut at the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, where Schlesser and his co-driver, renowned skier Henri Oreiller, achieved a second-place finish.
However, tragedy struck when Oreiller died in an accident at Montlhéry shortly thereafter. Ferrari rebuilt the car, and it was sold to Italian driver Paolo Colombo, who used it to dominate the 1963 Italian hillclimb circuit, winning 12 of the 14 events he entered.
The car then passed to Ernesto Prinoth, who campaigned it extensively during 1964 and 1965, including a dramatic crash at Monza in the Coppa Inter-Europa GT.
The damage was mainly cosmetic, and the car continued racing until it was sold to Fabrizio Violati, founder of Ferrari Club Italia.
Violati kept 3851 GT in his prestigious collection until his death in 2010, making it one of the most actively raced 250 GTOs.
The car remained in Violati’s estate until it was sold for a record-breaking $38.1 million at Bonhams’ Quail Lodge auction in 2014.
3. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Series 1, $48,405,000, RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 2018
Chassis 3413, the third 250 GTO ever built, set a new auction record in 2018 when it fetched $48.4 million at Monterey.
Originally intended for testing by Phil Hill in preparation for the Targa Florio, this car marked the debut of the Series I Scaglietti bodywork. Its distinctive design includes narrow brake ducts, a small radiator intake, and sail-panel vents.
After testing, the car was sold to Italian privateer Edoardo Lualdi-Gabardi, who dominated the 1962 Italian GT Championship with nine class victories.
The car went on to win additional races under its second owner, Gianni Bulgari, including the 1963 Targa Florio.
Over the years, 3413’s illustrious career continued with various owners, including David Piper, who claimed its final period race victory at the 1965 Redex Trophy at Brands Hatch.
Following its racing career, the car participated in historic events and was owned by renowned collectors such as Lord Anthony Bamford and Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones.
In the early 2000s, the car was acquired by Dr. Gregory Whitten, who showcased it at numerous events, including the Goodwood Revival and Pebble Beach Concours.
Before its sale, the car underwent thorough inspections by Ferrari Classiche and historian Marcel Massini, who praised its originality and unmatched racing pedigree.
2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO/330 LM, $51,705,000, Sotheby’s, New York, 2023
Chassis 3765LM stands apart as the only factory-campaigned Ferrari 250 GTO. Its remarkable history culminated in a $51.7 million sale at Sotheby’s in 2023, making it the most valuable Ferrari sold at auction and second overall behind the Uhlenhaut Coupé.
Originally equipped with a 4.0-liter Lampredi V12 engine, the car debuted at the Nürburgring 1000 KM, finishing second under the command of Mike Parkes and Willy Mairesse.
Afterward, it underwent modifications to enhance its performance for the Le Mans 24 Hours, though an overheating engine forced an early retirement.
The car went on to compete in hillclimbs and other races in Italy before being sold to a series of prominent owners.
Its later history includes restoration efforts and numerous concours appearances, culminating in its record-breaking auction.
1. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, $143,000,000, RM Sotheby’s, Stuttgart, 2022
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé shattered records in 2022, selling for $143 million. Designed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the car was based on the W196R Formula 1 chassis and built as a prototype for the ill-fated Carrera Panamericana.
The sale of this historic car, one of just two ever made, provided funding for the Mercedes-Benz Fund, dedicated to education and decarbonization initiatives.
Dubbed “Red” due to its interior color, the car served as Uhlenhaut’s personal vehicle and remains a symbol of engineering excellence from the era.