Classic cars have long been viewed as a blend of art and investment, offering both aesthetic beauty and historical significance. Among the most coveted are Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz models, which command mind-boggling prices at auction. These rare vehicles often have rich racing pedigrees, exceptional craftsmanship, and iconic designs, making them highly sought after by the wealthiest individuals. The price tags on these cars continue to skyrocket, as younger buyers with unique tastes are gradually entering the market. The following list details the top ten most expensive cars ever sold at auction, shedding light on the world of high-end classic car collecting and the factors that drive these astronomical prices.
10. 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale by Scaglietti
The 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale is a rare gem, with only three ever built. This racing car was designed to compete in the Le Mans 24 Hours race against the Ford GT40 and Shelby Cobra Daytona. Despite being plagued by a dispute overweight with organizers, this particular model was sold to an Italian owner as a road car and maintained its original engine. In 2014, it fetched a remarkable $26.4 million at auction, underscoring the rarity and appeal of Ferrari’s racing history.
9. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S NART Spider
Sold for $27.5 million at the 2013 RM Sotheby’s auction, this 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S NART Spider boasts a fascinating provenance. Originally owned by Eddie Smith, a former mayor of Lexington, North Carolina, the car’s standout features include its association with the North American Racing Team (NART) and its appearance in the 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair. Only 10 units of this open-top model were built, with this particular one being the first, further adding to its desirability.
8. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM
This Ferrari 290 MM, sold for $28.05 million at a 2015 auction, is particularly notable for its racing success. Driven by the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio at the Mille Miglia, the car secured fourth place overall. It also saw action with other renowned drivers of the time, including Alfonso de Portago and Wolfgang von Trips. Its racing pedigree, paired with its powerful 3.5-liter V12 engine, solidified its place among the most expensive classic cars.
7. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196
The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Grand Prix car, driven by five-time Formula One champion Juan Manuel Fangio, sold for $29.6 million at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed. As the only W196 outside of Mercedes’ own collection, its rarity and racing history—coupled with its association with Fangio—helped it command a record price at the time. Its success in Formula One further enhanced its appeal to collectors.
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6. 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta
A true work of art, the Ferrari 412P Berlinetta sold for $30.25 million in 2023. This particular model, known by its chassis number 0854, was one of only two made for favored customers. It had a successful racing career under the ownership of Colonel Ronnie Hoare and Ferrari enthusiast David Piper. A complete restoration and its status as a road-legal vehicle only added to its immense value, making it one of the most expensive Ferrari racers ever sold.
5. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti
With a price tag of $35.7 million, the 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti holds the record for the most expensive open-top car ever sold at auction. Known for its performance in races such as Sebring, Mille Miglia, and Le Mans, this car was built for speed and success. Its curvaceous design and racing history combined to make it a highly prized possession among collectors when it was sold in 2016.
4. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, sold for $38.1 million in 2014, holds a special place in automotive history. One of just 36 built, this model competed in the 1963 FIA World GT Championship and secured victory. Its racing success, coupled with its rarity, made it a coveted collector’s item. The 250 GTO is often regarded as the epitome of Ferrari’s racing heritage and is frequently cited as the world’s most expensive classic car.
3. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
At $48.4 million, this second 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO sold at the 2018 RM Sotheby’s auction set a new benchmark. This model, chassis number 3413 GT, was extensively raced in the early 1960s, contributing to Ferrari’s dominance in GT racing. Its victories, including back-to-back wins in the Targa Florio, further elevated its desirability. The car was owned by Dr. Gregory Whitten for two decades, further enhancing its provenance.
2. 1962 Ferrari 330 LM 250 GTO by Scaglietti
Sold for a staggering $51.7 million in 2023, this Ferrari 250 GTO holds a special place due to its historical significance. It was the only 250 GTO Tipo to be raced by the Scuderia Ferrari team and was driven by the likes of Mike Parkes and Lorenzo Bandini during the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans. With a rich racing history and a 38-year ownership by a passionate collector, this car’s sale price was a testament to its legendary status.
1. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe
Topping the list is the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, which achieved an astounding $135 million at auction in 2022. Only two of these cars were ever made, and its exclusivity was underscored by the invite-only auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Germany. The car’s design, powered by a 3.0-liter straight-eight engine derived from the W196 Grand Prix car, and its impeccable condition—having covered only 3,756 miles in seven decades—contributed to its astronomical price. The auction also stipulated that the car would be shared at events, ensuring its continued legacy.
The prices of classic cars, particularly those from Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz, show no signs of slowing down. With their unique combination of racing history, aesthetic beauty, and limited production, these cars continue to attract the wealthiest collectors. As the market evolves, new buyers will undoubtedly bring fresh tastes, but the allure of these timeless automotive icons remains undeniable. The staggering auction prices reflect not just the cars themselves, but the passion and prestige that comes with owning such extraordinary machines. As long as rare classics continue to capture imaginations, these records will likely be shattered again, further solidifying the status of classic cars as both art and investment.
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