While many individuals stress over the difficulty of finding a car or worry about the costs associated with hefty dealer markups, collectors are spending extraordinary sums on classic cars annually.
According to Classic.com, the top 10 most expensive collector cars that were sold at auction in 2022 accounted for a total of $250 million in sales.
The least expensive car in this prestigious group fetched $7,595,000 at auction, while the most expensive brought in an astonishing $146,588,400.
Keeping this in mind, we decided it would be fascinating to go into the world of the ten most expensive collector cars ever sold. This article explores these ten vehicles, providing insights into what makes them worth their impressive price tags.
1. 1954 Ferrari 375 America Vignale Cabriolet – $6,500,000 to $7,000,000
In the 1950s, Ferrari was a very different automaker compared to what it is today. During that period, the Italian marque was focused heavily on grand tourers, and the Ferrari 375 America serves as an excellent example of this vision.
The 375 America featured a less powerful version of the Lampredi engine that was used in the Ferrari 375 MM race car and served as a successor to the 342 America model.
The Ferrari 375 America was produced in very limited quantities, with just 10 units originally built. Additionally, two other vehicles originally intended as 250 Europas were later converted at the factory to become part of the 375 America lineage.
Buyers could choose from various coachwork options offered by the legendary design houses of Pinin Farina and Vignale. However, what distinguishes this model is that it is the only vehicle that received Vignale’s coachwork in the form of a cabriolet.
The car’s history is equally fascinating. Enzo Ferrari personally sold one of these vehicles to Bianca Colizzi, the daughter of famed film director Giuseppe Colizzi.
Moreover, this particular 1954 Ferrari 375 America is notable because its engine, gearbox, rear axle, and bodywork all retain their original matching numbers, adding to its historical appeal.
2. 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC Spider – $8,000,000 to $10,000,000
The 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC Spider is the first race car to make this list. This iconic model was a competitor at the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1957.
Between 1958 and 1959, it accumulated 12 class victories. From 1957 to 1963, the 500 TRC Spider secured podium finishes on 18 occasions, cementing its reputation as a successful racing machine.
For enthusiasts interested in taking part in historic racing events like the Le Mans Classic or the Mille Miglia Storica, this is one vehicle to aspire to own.
What sets this car apart is its unique engine choice. Unlike most Ferraris, the 500 TRC Spider was equipped with a 4-cylinder engine rather than a V8 or V12.
Despite being a 4-cylinder model, the engine developed an impressive 190 horsepower, allowing the 500 TRC Spider to achieve a top speed of 153 mph.
Designed specifically for privateer racers, only 19 units of this model were ever built. This 500 TRC Spider happens to be the second-to-last unit constructed, boasting a rich history as one of Ferrari’s most successful race cars of its era.
3. 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione – $7,500,000 to $8,750,000
For collectors, the car’s racing history is often just as valuable as its physical characteristics. Ferrari’s 250 line represents one of the most iconic and historically significant vehicles in the company’s history.
Among these models, the short-wheelbase (SWB) Berlinetta proved to be a cornerstone of Ferrari’s design and racing efforts during that era.
The 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione combines stunning aesthetics with its impressive racing history. Featuring gorgeous coachwork designed by Scagliette, this vehicle retains a historical livery that alludes to its storied competition background.
The car has a documented history of participation in prestigious events such as Le Mans and Goodwood.
Adding to the allure is the documentation of its history by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini, which enhances its desirability and appeal.
With its beautiful design, prestigious racing record, and historical pedigree, the 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
4. 1924 Hispano-Suiza H6C “Tulipwood” Torpedo – $8,000,000 to $9,245,000
You won’t be judged if the name Hispano-Suiza is unfamiliar to you. The brand was established in 1904 in Barcelona and quickly became a dominant name in the racing world.
André Dubonnet commissioned the Hispano-Suiza H6C Torpedo, which went on to become one of the most iconic models from the brand.
After a successful career as a pilot during World War I and a history in racing, Dubonnet set out to create what would become the most famous Hispano-Suiza ever.
While the vehicle’s 8.0-liter engine is an impressive feature, the real showstopper is its stunning coachwork. Dubonnet brought in aircraft manufacturer Nieuport-Astra to create the body for the 1924 Hispano-Suiza H6C “Tulipwood” Torpedo.
Meanwhile, engineer Henri Chasseriaux meticulously shaped the 1/8-inch-thick mahogany strips that were laid over 3/4-inch ribs, forming the body and giving the car its distinctive appearance.
In today’s world, a wooden-bodied car would likely be reserved purely for display purposes, but back in 1924, this unique design proved its competitive merit.
The vehicle competed in the prestigious Targa Florio race, where it achieved an impressive sixth-place finish overall.
The wood construction not only set this car apart visually but also contributed to a much lighter body than the heavier traditional metal alternatives of its time.
5. 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster – $9,905,000
Rarity always adds an element of appeal for collectors, and the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster is a prime example.
With only three known units of this vehicle remaining, it stands as one of the rarest luxury automobiles of its time, and this scarcity could explain its nearly $10 million price at auction.
Adding to its allure is its royal history—this specific model was originally ordered by King Mohammed Zahir Shah of Afghanistan in 1937.
King Zahir Shah is credited with pioneering the construction of modern roads within his country, making it easy to imagine how stunning this vehicle would have looked on freshly laid tarmac in that era.
The 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster combines extreme rarity, historical significance, and unparalleled luxury, making it a must-have for collectors with a passion for history and design.
6. 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante – $10,345,000
While Bugatti is now synonymous with some of the most expensive hypercars in the modern era—vehicles with enough horsepower to power small cities—the brand’s roots trace back to the 1930s, when the Type 57SC Atalante captured the spirit of sleek European design and performance.
This particular 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante is believed to be one of the very first 57SCs in existence.
The original owner of this model had Bugatti install a roots-style supercharger soon after taking delivery, which increased the car’s horsepower to an impressive 200 hp.
This performance enhancement solidified the 57SC Atalante as one of the fastest and most powerful cars available before the outbreak of World War II.
What sets this model apart is its unique features, including its fully skirted rear fenders, which completely conceal the rear tires, and the large, distinctive Scintilla headlights—both of which showcase the brand’s stunning coachwork design.
Additionally, this vehicle is one of just 17 models in existence and is entirely original, with a documented history that traces back to its original delivery in Paris in 1937.
The 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante represents a blend of rare performance, stunning design, and unmatched history, making it a standout example of pre-war luxury performance vehicles.
7. 1937 Talbot-Lago T-150-C SS Teardrop Coupe – $13,425,000
The Talbot-Lago T-150-C SS Teardrop Coupe is a true classic that stands out as one of the most unique vehicles of its era.
It’s likely one you’ve never heard of, as this particular example is believed to be the only one still in existence with all of its original bodywork completely intact.
The distinctive bodywork of this classic beauty was designed by the legendary design firm Figoni et Falaschi. It’s believed that the company produced only 10 to 20 Teardrop Coupes during its run.
These models came in two versions: the notchback Coupe Jeancart and the fastback Modelé New York. The T-150C-SS is a fastback Modelé New York, and only two of these were ever built by the company. That’s a level of rarity that’s hard to match.
This vehicle isn’t just a rare classic; it’s a celebrated one. The Talbot-Lago T-150-C SS Teardrop Coupe has an impressive award history, including earning First in Class at Pebble Beach and being named Best of Show at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.
8. 2003 Ferrari F2003 GA – $13,400,000
No discussion about iconic Formula One cars would be complete without mentioning Michael Schumacher, one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history.
Schumacher’s success in the sport has cemented his legacy, and the 2003 Ferrari F2003 GA stands out as one of the most successful vehicles in his arsenal.
The F2003-GA is particularly special because it played a key role in helping Schumacher win the World Championship for the sixth time.
Chassis 229 is considered the most successful of the six F2003-GAs that Ferrari built during its time.The car underwent a comprehensive overhaul in 2022, ensuring that it remains in full working order.
The 3.0-liter V10 engine has been meticulously maintained and is fully capable of taking to the track once again, demonstrating the incredible engineering and racing heritage behind the vehicle.
9. 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider – $22,005,000
Few cars can inspire the kind of awe that the 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider does. This iconic sports car is a dream for collectors, and there are numerous reasons why.
One of its most iconic features is its breathtaking design, which was created by the legendary Sergio Scaglietti. This makes it one of the rare Ferrari models to boast coachwork that Scaglietti personally designed and built.
The Ferrari 410 Sport Spider is powered by a 4.9-liter V2 engine, making it a masterpiece of both performance and design.
Of particular note is the fact that this model is one of just two factory-campaigned 410 Sport cars equipped with a 12-cylinder engine, elevating its desirability even further.
Adding to its impressive history is the fact that this very model was driven by racing legends Carroll Shelby and Juan Manuel Fangio.
Shelby’s involvement with Ferrari was especially noteworthy during his career, with eight race victories and ten podium finishes achieved behind the wheel of chassis number 0589 CM.
The 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider remains a symbol of luxury, style, and racing pedigree, making it one of the most sought-after collector cars in history.
10. 1955 Mercedes-Benz SLR ‘Uhlenhaut Coupé’ – $146,588,400
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz SLR “Uhlenhaut Coupé” is one of the most expensive vehicles ever sold, fetching a staggering $146,588,400.
When you consider that the combined total of the other nine cars on this list doesn’t come close to this amount, you truly understand how significant this sale was.
The Uhlenhaut Coupé holds immense historical value for Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors alike. It is one of only two vehicles built based on the legendary 300 SLR racing platform and was designed by the renowned automotive engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut.
The Uhlenhaut Coupé wasn’t just beautiful to look at—it was also one of the fastest cars of its era. With a top speed of 180 mph, it was a technical marvel of its time.
What makes this sale even more incredible is the history behind this car. Mercedes-Benz had maintained ownership of this vehicle since its original construction, and the sale marked the very first time it was offered to a private buyer.
This rare combination of design, engineering history, and uniqueness added up to its record-breaking price tag, cementing its position as one of the most sought-after collector cars ever to change hands.
These classic cars are more than just vehicles; they are pieces of automotive history that hold tremendous value, both financially and culturally.