Classic cars are not just vehicles for transportation, but they’re a symbol of an era long gone and still celebrated by admirers worldwide. Throughout the years, classic car lovers have spent millions of dollars to own and hold some of the rarest and most magical automobiles in the world.
Classic car auctions have become a showcase of meticulously restored beauties, with car fanatics focusing on bidding for the cars of their dreams. In this article, we will explore some of the most expensive classic cars ever sold at an auction. Each car has a unique story and reputation that makes them all collector’s delights.
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR “Uhlenhaut Coupe” – $143 million
Mercedes-Benz is one of the most recognized names in the automobile industry, renowned for making some of the finest luxury cars worldwide. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR “Uhlenhaut Coupe” is one of the rarest and most valuable cars worldwide, with only two produced.
This car was sold in the United Kingdom for a record-breaking $143 million in 2018, making it the most expensive classic car ever sold. This car was named after its designer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, who was responsible for creating two prototypes from the brand’s Le Mans-winning racer. This model is particularly notable for its sleek aerodynamic design, featuring a smooth metallic silver body and stunning gullwing doors.
1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $48.4 million
The Ferrari 250 GTO is one of Ferrari’s most prized creations, and it’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful classic cars ever made. The Ferrari 250 GTO is a racing car that was produced between 1962 and 1964 in a limited number of 36 units.
This beauty is so rare that it’s highly coveted by collectors worldwide, selling for $48.4 million in 2018 at an auction in Monterey, California. This model is the epitome of a classic sports car, featuring a V12 engine, inline-six petrol engine, and elegant design.
1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti – $35.7 million
Another Ferrari that makes up the list of most expensive classic cars is the Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti. The story of this car is particularly thrilling, having been driven by British racing legend Sir Stirling Moss in the 1957 Mille Miglia race.
This car was sold in Paris for $35.7 million in 2016, making it one of the most expensive cars to be ever auctioned. This Ferrari is special for its incredible performance and stunning design, featuring handcrafted aluminum bodywork and a three-liter V12 engine.
1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Silver Arrow – $29.6 million
The Mercedes-Benz W196 Silver Arrow is another breathtaking car that can easily make your heart skip a beat. This car dominated the Formula One Circuit in 1954 and 1955, helping Mercedes-Benz win two consecutive championships.
This car was exceptional both in design and performance, with a lightweight space frame and a remarkable 2.5-liter engine. It was sold for $29.6 million in 2013 by Bonhams at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom.
1956 Ferrari 290 MM Scaglietti Spyder – $28 million
The 290 MM Scaglietti Spyder is a stunning classic Ferrari that was sold for $28 million in 2015 at an auction in New York. This car was driven by legendary racing driver Juan Manuel Fangio during the famous Mille Miglia in 1956.
The Ferrari 290 MM Scaglietti Spyder is one of the most expensive Ferraris in the world, and it’s easy to see why – with its sleek design, elegant interior, and high-performance engine, it’s the perfect combination of sophistication and style.
1956 Aston Martin DBR1 – $22.6 million
Another British masterpiece that made it onto our list is the 1956 Aston Martin DBR1. This car is highly prized for its racing history, and it’s even said to have helped put Aston Martin on the map.
This car was sold for $22.6 million at an auction in Monterey, California, in 2017. This model is a true classic, featuring a curvy body, aluminum panels, and a powerful six-cylinder engine.
1963 Aston Martin DP215 Grand Touring Competition Prototype – $21.5 million
The 1963 Aston Martin DP215 is an absolute beauty and one of the most iconic cars ever to be produced by the brand. This car was a prototype for the legendary Aston Martin DB5 that was featured in the James Bond movie, “Goldfinger.”
This car was sold for $21.5 million in 2018 at the Monterey Car Week in California, making it one of the most expensive Astons sold at auction. The DP215’s aerodynamic design and high-performance engine are a testament to its classic status.
1961 Ferrari 250 GT California SWB Spider – $17.2 million
The Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider is the epitome of classic cars. This car was produced between 1958 and 1963 in a limited number of only 37 units. To this day, it’s still one of the most desirable Ferraris ever made.
This model was sold for an impressive $17.2 million at an auction in California in 2008, making it one of the most expensive classic cars ever sold at an auction. This car is notable for its lightweight construction and powerful engine, making it a true collector’s delight.
Conclusion
These are just some of the most expensive classic cars ever sold at an auction, each with its own unique story and reputation that make them all collector’s delights. From the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR “Uhlenhaut Coupe” to the Aston Martin DP215 Grand Touring Competition Prototype, each car is a reminder of the golden era of classic cars and its timeless appeal.
Whether you’re an avid collector or just an admirer, these classic cars will be sure to captivate and amaze you. Are you longing to own one of these collector’s delights? If so, you’re in luck – Dyler offers a vast selection of classic cars, from the most expensive to affordable options, so you’re sure to find something that fits your budget and style perfectly. Start browsing today!
