Abandoned cars can either be a heartbreaking sight or an unexpected jackpot, depending on who discovers them.
Across the globe, car enthusiasts and collectors are always on the lookout for rare and valuable barn finds.
Some of these forgotten vehicles hold incredible worth, reaching into the millions of dollars, as demonstrated by the following list. Among these hidden treasures are legendary models from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Ford, Jaguar, BMW, and even DeLorean.
While some of the vehicles on this list were stumbled upon by unsuspecting YouTubers, others were tracked down after years of dedicated searching by hardcore automotive fans.
Additionally, this collection includes abandoned cars that not only carry hefty price tags but also possess fascinating and unique backstories.
10. Mr. Dick’s Mouse-Infested DeLorean
Current Value: $34,000 to $101,000
Despite its striking design, the original DeLorean DMC-12 was never truly a high-performance vehicle. Featuring a wedge-shaped body, iconic gullwing doors, and a stainless steel exterior, the car looked futuristic but lacked power.
However, its legendary role in the Back to the Future franchise cemented its place in pop culture history. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable movie cars, second only to James Bond’s Aston Martins.
This particular DeLorean, a low-mileage, single-owner model, was discovered stored in a Wisconsin barn. YouTuber DeLorean NATION got a closer look at the vehicle, which had been left untouched for decades.
Despite its long dormancy, the car still retained its original NCT tires, with tread patterns that appeared nearly new.
However, the car was coated in dust, and while the interior remained in relatively fair condition, a rodent infestation had taken its toll.
The presence of copious amounts of droppings and a strong foul odor indicated the extent of the damage.
According to Barrie Wills, only 9,080 DeLorean DMC-12s were produced over a three-year span, making them a highly sought-after collector’s item today. Hagerty estimates that a 1982 DeLorean DMC-12 in good condition is currently valued at over $50,000.
Specs and Pricing
- Engine Configuration: V6; Rear-mounted
- Engine Displacement: 2.85-liter (174 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 130 hp
- Peak Torque: 153 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $24,000
9. Mr. Shivonne’s 1980 Ferrari 512 BB
Current Value: $170,000 to $345,000
Known as the Ferrari Boxer, this model was one of the most sought-after Prancing Horses of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
According to RM Sotheby’s, Ferrari produced only 929 carbureted examples of the 512 BB between 1976 and 1981.
This vehicle’s 5.0-liter flat-12 engine was derived from Ferrari’s Formula 1 technology, which contributed to the immense enthusiasm surrounding the car.
The showcased model, built in 1980, had been left sitting in a barn for over 28 years. Unlike most 512 BBs, which featured a dual-tone design with a black-painted lower half, this particular car had been repainted entirely in red for a uniform appearance.
Despite nearly three decades of neglect, many of the car’s components remained in surprisingly good condition.
The massive rear engine cover lift supports were still functional, which is remarkable for a vehicle left unattended for so long. Mr. Shivonne acquired both this Ferrari and a Lamborghini Miura at an auction in Georgia.
While details about the Lamborghini remain uncertain, Shivonne has indicated plans to bring in a mechanic to restore the Ferrari to running condition. According to Hagerty, a well-maintained 1980 Ferrari 512 BB is currently valued at approximately $210,000.
Specs and Pricing
- Engine Configuration: Flat-12; Naturally Aspirated
- Engine Displacement: 5.0-liter (305 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 360 hp
- Peak Torque: 333 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $62,500
Also Read: Top 10 Affordable Classic Cars Perfect for Beginners Entering the World of Vintage Collecting
8. 1967 Shelby GT500
Current Value: $118,000 to $219,000
The 1967 Shelby GT500 was among the pioneering models in the Ford-Shelby performance partnership.
Featuring a cast aluminum intake manifold and dual 600-CFM Holley carburetors, the GT500’s V8 engine delivered impressive power.
Additionally, the car was equipped with a 140-mph speedometer and an 8,000-rpm tachometer both enhancements over the standard Ford Mustang. The interior also showcased distinctive Cobra badging, further reinforcing its racing pedigree.
This particular barn-find Shelby GT500 was purchased in 1973 and subsequently stored away in 1980. It remained hidden for 44 years, only recently seeing daylight once again.
Unfortunately, the car’s condition had deteriorated significantly over the decades, with visible rust, dents, and panel damage. However, despite the wear and tear, the vehicle was still structurally solid an impressive feat for a long-forgotten classic.
One distinguishing feature of this GT500 model was its outward-positioned headlights in the grille. Another version of the GT500 existed with inward-positioned lights.
According to Hagerty’s valuation data, a well-preserved 1967 Shelby GT500 is currently worth around $164,000.
Specs and Pricing
- Engine Configuration: Pushrod V8; Naturally Aspirated
- Engine Displacement: 7.0-liter (428 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 355 hp
- Peak Torque: 420 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $4,395
7. Jaguar XJ220
Current Value: $292,000 to $606,000
The sight of an abandoned Jaguar XJ220 was a shocking revelation when images of this rare British supercar began circulating online in 2010.
Captured by the UAE-based auto magazine Crank and Piston, this particular XJ220 one of only 281 ever produced was found neglected on the side of a road, covered in layers of dust and grime.
According to reports, this low-mileage example had only 560 miles on its odometer at the time of discovery.
Now, over 14 years since those heartbreaking images first surfaced, there has been no credible update regarding the car’s whereabouts or condition.
Believed to have originated from Qatar, this abandoned XJ220 could now fetch well over $600,000 if it were in pristine condition, as per Hagerty Valuation.
When first released, the XJ220 was Jaguar’s inaugural attempt at a supercar, competing directly with the likes of the Porsche 959 and Ferrari F40.
Originally envisioned with a V12 engine mirroring the concept prototype’s 6.2-liter unit the production model was ultimately equipped with a twin-turbocharged V6.
Boasting a top speed of 212 mph and capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, the XJ220 held the title of the world’s fastest production car until 1993, when the McLaren F1 shattered its record.
Today, a well-maintained XJ220 is valued at over $350,000, according to Hagerty.
Specs and Pricing
- Engine Configuration: V6; Twin-Turbocharged
- Engine Displacement: 3.5-liter (214 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 542 hp
- Peak Torque: 475 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: ~$800,000
6. BMW M1
Current Value: $380,000 to $780,000
The BMW M1 sparked the M-division frenzy, solidifying its status as an iconic sports car.
More than 50 years have passed since its debut, yet it remains one of the rarest BMW models ever built, with just 453 units produced.
This mid-engine sports car was powered by a six-cylinder engine, enabling it to reach speeds of up to 165 mph.
Given its exclusivity, it was quite the surprise when a dust-covered M1 was discovered abandoned in Southern Italy.
According to Mint Classics, this particular BMW M1 had been hidden away in darkness for over 30 years.
With an exceptionally low odometer reading of just over 4,500 miles, this rare find was in remarkable shape.
Fortunately, the car was eventually transported to BMW Classic in Munich, where it underwent a full restoration before being listed for sale in 2018. However, since then, its trail has gone cold, leaving enthusiasts wondering about its current fate.
As per Hagerty’s valuation, a well-preserved BMW M1 is now worth close to $500,000.
Specs and Pricing
- Engine Configuration: Inline-6
- Engine Displacement: 3.5-liter (211 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 274 hp
- Peak Torque: 243 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $115,000
5. 1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS
Current Value: $460,000 to $740,000
Among the many remarkable barn finds, this 1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS comes with an especially intriguing backstory. Unlike other abandoned supercars, this one wasn’t simply forgotten it was buried.
This Dino 246 GTS was discovered underground near a house in Los Angeles, making headlines as a case of auto theft that led to an unexpected revelation.
Upon recovery, authorities traced the car back to its original owner, Rosendo Cruz. He had reportedly purchased the Ferrari as a gift for his wife, only to have it stolen after just 500 miles of use.
However, further investigation revealed that the entire incident was an elaborate scheme orchestrated by Cruz himself.
His plan to commit insurance fraud went awry when his accomplices forgot where they had hidden the car, leaving it buried and abandoned.
Despite its unusual past, the car found a second chance when it was acquired by its current owner, Brad Howard. He purchased it from Farmers Insurance, which had repossessed the vehicle after Cruz defaulted on payments.
One fascinating detail about this particular Ferrari model is that it lacked the traditional Prancing Horse badges, as the Dino lineup was originally marketed as a standalone brand separate from Ferrari.
With only 3,569 Dino 246 GTS units produced between 1969 and 1974, this remains one of the rarer classic Ferraris on the market. Today, according to Hagerty, a well-maintained 1974 Dino 246 GTS is valued at over $500,000.
Specs and Pricing
- Engine Configuration: V6; Naturally Aspirated
- Engine Displacement: 2.4-liter (146 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 190 hp
- Peak Torque: 167 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $14,500
4. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing
Current Value: $950,000 To $2.1 Million
This particular Mercedes-Benz model played a crucial role in popularizing gullwing doors.
The 300 SL Gullwing stands as one of Mercedes’ most iconic sports cars, originally designed for racing.
Its low-slung body, elongated hood housing a 3.0-liter straight-six engine, and compact rear section were all distinctive design elements that set it apart from competitors.
Interestingly, the most expensive car ever sold is directly linked to the 300 SL Gullwing. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, of which only two were ever produced, was sold for a staggering $142,000,000 in 2022.
A total of 1,400 Gullwings were produced between 1954 and 1957, with 29 units featuring all-aluminum bodies, making them particularly rare and highly sought-after.
This specific barn-find 300 SL is even more special as it remains completely original and unrestored, being the 43rd production model off the assembly line.
A well-maintained ’54 300 SL Gullwing commands an impressive market value of $1.35 million. According to Hagerty Valuation, the rarer all-aluminum SL300 models can reach up to $8.2 million in concours condition.
Specs And Pricing
- Engine Configuration: Inline-6; Naturally Aspirated
- Engine Displacement: 3.0-liter (183 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 215 hp
- Peak Torque: 203 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: ~$7,200
3. Stamatis Kokotas’ Lamborghini Miura
Current Value: $1.6 Million To $2.9 Million
The Lamborghini Miura was the first production sports car to position its rear-mounted engine ahead of the rear axle, marking a significant advancement for supercars of that era.
Its legendary V12 engine has endured for over 50 years, with its final iteration found in the Lamborghini Murcielago. The Miura, in essence, is a true supercar icon.
Seeing such a legendary vehicle abandoned and covered in dust is shocking. However, this particular Miura has a fascinating backstory. It was gifted to rally driver and singer Stamatis Kokotas by Greek billionaire Aristotle Onassis.
This metallic brown Miura P400S came equipped with optional air-conditioning and electric windows.
What made it even more unique were its bespoke steering wheel badging and rally lights positioned at the bottom of the front bumper. This car surfaced at Coys Auction in 2012 but did not meet the reserve price.
Since then, its whereabouts have remained unknown. As per Hagerty Valuations, a well-preserved 1969 Lamborghini Miura P400 S is valued at over $2 million.
Specs And Pricing
- Engine Configuration: V12; Naturally Aspirated
- Engine Displacement: 4.0-liter (240 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 370 hp
- Peak Torque: 286 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $20,000
2. Uday Hussein’s Ferrari F40
Current Value: $1.6 Million To $3.45 Million
This Ferrari F40 is infamous due to its original owner, Uday Hussein, the eldest son of Saddam Hussein.
A widely circulated photo of this F40, abandoned in the Iraqi desert and covered in dust, made it an internet sensation.
Following the fall of the Hussein regime, numerous collectors and Ferrari enthusiasts attempted to acquire it, but it has continuously eluded public attention.
Automotive historians and YouTuber Ratarossa have extensively tracked this vehicle, even attempting costly measures to recover it, but without success. The car’s exact location remains a mystery.
The last known update came from a Ratarossa video, where he stated that the F40 had finally been shipped out of Iraq, but due to confidentiality concerns, further details could not be disclosed.
Two years have passed since that update, with no further news. According to Hagerty, a well-preserved Ferrari F40 is currently valued at approximately $2.4 million.
Specs And Pricing
- Engine Configuration: V8; Twin-Turbo
- Engine Displacement: 2.9-liter
- Maximum Power: 471 hp
- Peak Torque: 426 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: $399,150
1. George Brand’s 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona
Current Value: $21 Million To $33.5 Million
The tale of this long-lost Shelby Cobra Daytona is as compelling as the race car itself. It was the first of six vehicles built by Shelby in collaboration with Peter Brock, intended to rival Ferrari’s aerodynamic race cars.
What makes this particular Cobra Daytona special is that it was the only one built in America, whereas the other five were completed in Italy.
This specific model, CSX2287, set multiple land speed records before retiring. It changed hands several times before ending up with Donna O’Hare.
Once under O’Hare’s ownership, the car essentially vanished from public view. Despite multiple inquiries from collectors including Carroll Shelby himself she consistently denied its existence.
Following her passing, the vehicle resurfaced, bringing with it a complex ownership dispute. A legal battle ensued, ultimately awarding ownership to Kurt Goss, a close relative of Donna O’Hare.
However, by that time, her mother had already sold the car for $4 million, leaving Goss with an $800,000 settlement. According to Hagerty, a well-maintained Shelby Cobra Daytona is currently valued at an astonishing $24.8 million.
Specs And Pricing
- Engine Configuration: V8; Pushrod; Naturally Aspirated
- Engine Displacement: 4.7-liter (289 cu-in)
- Maximum Power: 385 hp
- Peak Torque: 341 lb-ft
- MSRP When New: N/A
Also Read: Top 10 Cars that Excel in Interior Styling and Comfort