The classic car market in 2024 saw an impressive array of high-priced vehicles sold at public auctions, with several legendary cars breaking records. Among the most expensive cars sold, two Ferraris stood out—both the first and the last 250 GT SWB California Spiders. These iconic vehicles were joined by an Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B, a 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider, and an early Mercedes-Simplex, each commanding multi-million-dollar prices. These results illustrate the enduring appeal of classic cars, particularly those with historical significance or unique pedigrees.
These cars represent a unique mix of Italian sports cars, rare pre-war vehicles, and modern hypercars, all of which continue to attract collectors and investors. The highest sales occurred at prestigious events such as the Mecum Kissimmee auction, RM Sotheby’s Monterey, and Gooding Pebble Beach auctions. The fact that these cars fetched millions of dollars demonstrates the intense competition for the rarest and most desirable automobiles.
Top Sellers of 2024
1963 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider
The 1963 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider topped the list of the most expensive cars sold in 2024, fetching $17,875,000 at the Mecum Kissimmee auction. This sale marked a significant milestone for Mecum, as it was the first time they had sold a car for over $10 million. The 1963 Ferrari is also the last of the 55 short-wheelbase California Spiders produced between 1960 and 1963, making it a particularly valuable piece of Ferrari history. Its restoration and provenance, including retaining its original chassis and engine, added to its allure.
1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider
Close behind, the first Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider—produced in 1960—sold for $17,055,000 at RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction. This Ferrari holds historical importance as the original show car presented at the 1960 Geneva Auto Salon. With a unique competition-specification engine and a rare factory removable hardtop, it represents the early days of the California Spider lineage. Despite its age, it remains a highly sought-after collector’s car due to its history and rarity.
1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider
The 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider, sold for $14,030,000 at the Gooding Pebble Beach auction, ranks as the third most expensive car of 2024. This car, although well below its estimated value of $16 to $20 million, remains one of the most coveted pre-war automobiles. Its restoration and unique features, including its coachwork by Touring, add to its collectible value. The car’s infamous history, which includes a 2022 theft and subsequent recovery, only adds to its mystique and appeal.
1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider
Next in line is a 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider, which sold for $12,985,000 at RM Sotheby’s Monterey. Although this sale was somewhat underwhelming compared to expectations, the Ferrari remains an iconic model in Ferrari’s racing history. This particular 410 Sport Spider was the prototype for the Scuderia Ferrari Works cars and was driven by racing legend Carroll Shelby during the 1956 Palm Springs Road Races, further cementing its historical value.
1903 Mercedes-Simplex 60 HP ‘Roi des Belges’
Also making the top five is the 1903 Mercedes-Simplex 60 HP ‘Roi des Belges’, which fetched $12,105,000 at the Gooding Amelia Island auction. A rare pre-1930 model, it is the most expensive car ever sold from this era. This particular model, once owned by British tycoon Alfred Harmsworth, has remained in the same family for over 120 years. Its combination of racing history and its luxurious bodywork by J. Rothschild et Fils made it an irresistible prize for collectors.
Modern Hypercars and Other Notable Sales
2014 Pagani Zonda LM Roadster
The 2014 Pagani Zonda LM Roadster is another notable sale, selling for $11,086,250 at the RM Sotheby’s Dubai auction. This record-setting price for a Pagani Zonda surpasses previous models and reflects the increasing demand for modern hypercars. As part of the Grandi Complicazioni series, this one-off roadster drew attention for its performance and exclusivity, along with its high mileage for a hypercar, setting a new precedent for future Pagani sales.
1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione
A 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione also made waves, selling for €10,158,125 at RM Sotheby’s Paris. This car stands out not only for its rarity but also for its racing pedigree, which includes participation in the 1960 12 Hours of Sebring and several podium finishes. As one of the most desirable versions of the 250 GT, its price reflects both its historical significance and its exceptional condition.
1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing
The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing surprised many by selling for $9,335,000 at the RM Sotheby’s Los Angeles auction. This sale marked a new record for the 300 SL Alloy Gullwing model, which had previously been undervalued compared to its counterparts. Despite its rough condition, having spent decades in a junkyard, its rarity and historical value helped it achieve a price far above initial estimates.
Jody Scheckter’s 1979 Ferrari 312 T4
Jody Scheckter’s 1979 Ferrari 312 T4, sold for $8,250,800 at the RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction, ranks as one of the most expensive Formula 1 cars ever sold. This particular 312 T4 was driven by Scheckter during his championship-winning season, including victories at the Belgian, Monaco, and Italian Grands Prix. It is one of the most significant Ferrari F1 cars, marking the last Formula 1 championship win for Ferrari until the era of Michael Schumacher.
1969 Ford GT40 Lightweight
A 1969 Ford GT40 Lightweight, which fetched $7,865,000 at the Mecum Monterey auction, represents a significant chapter in Ford’s motorsport history. This particular GT40 was one of only ten lightweight models produced, and although it wasn’t driven by any major racing legends, its rarity and connection to Ford’s racing heritage make it a valuable collector’s item.
In 2024, a total of at least 277 cars were sold for over $1 million at various auctions throughout the year. The highest concentration of these sales occurred in January, March, August, and November, with major auctions taking place in locations such as Kissimmee, Pebble Beach, and London. The significant presence of high-priced cars at these auctions indicates the continued strength of the classic car market.
The auction results from 2024 reflect both the enduring allure of vintage and classic cars and the growing influence of modern hypercars in the market. From Ferraris to Pagani, these vehicles continue to captivate collectors worldwide, securing their place in automotive history. With several new auction records set and a steady demand for rare, historical cars, the future of the classic car auction market looks exceptionally strong.
