The Most Expensive Cars Sold At Auction

Unveiling The Most Expensive Cars Auctioned 

Collectible cars represent not only milestones in automotive engineering but also cultural artifacts that capture the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide. Auctions for these legendary vehicles have reached astronomical heights, driven by their historical significance and design innovations. Let's look at some of the most expensive cars to hit the auction block.

(Note: All prices are in USD) 

Porsche 917K: $14,080,000

The Porsche 917K is celebrated for its groundbreaking racing heritage and innovative design. Its limited production and iconic performance have made it a prized collectible among enthusiasts. The car achieved a sale price of $14,080,000, underscoring its appeal in motorsport history.

Brian Snelson, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato: $14,300,000

The Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato is renowned for its elegant styling and storied racing pedigree. Achieving a price tag of $14,300,000 at auction, it stands as a testament to timeless British motoring excellence. Its exclusive collaboration with the Italian design house Zagato enhances its collectability. 

Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 LM: $14,300,000

The Ferrari 250 LM is celebrated for its impressive racing achievements and classic Italian design. Its extremely limited production and historical significance make it highly coveted by collectors. A sale price of $14,300,000 reflects its status within the Ferrari pantheon.

ignis, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale: $14,520,000

The Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale stands as a masterpiece where power meets elegance. With a staggering auction price of 14,520,000, this limited edition gem cements its place at the top of Ferrari’s elite collection. Racing heritage and limited production only add to its undeniable allure among collectors.

Marty B, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari F2003-GA: $14,865,442

The Ferrari F2003-GA, auctioned for $14,865,442, represents a modern chapter in Ferrari’s illustrious racing history. It marries groundbreaking technology with the enduring legacy of Formula One’s competitive nature.

pelican-actor, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder: $15,180,000

The Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder captures the essence of 1960s automotive design and performance. With its sleek, open-top styling and elegant curves, it remains a favorite among collectors around the world.

Herranderssvensson, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

McLaren F1: $15,620,000

The McLaren F1 revolutionized the supercar landscape with its innovative engineering and blistering speed. The driver-focused design and extremely limited production have contributed to its high desirability.

MrWalkr, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons 

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa: $16,390,000

The Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, with a price tag of $16,390,000, stands as a symbol of racing greatness. Renowned for its distinctive design and dominance in endurance racing, it has earned a permanent spot in the hearts of collectors and motorsport enthusiasts alike.

Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Speciale Bertone: $16,500,000

The Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Speciale Bertone, with a sale price of $16,500,000, is an exclusive blend of visual allure and high-performance engineering. The unique Bertone design and limited production ensure its status as one of the most coveted classic cars.

Alexandre Prevot, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder: $16,830,000

This variant of the Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder showcases refined engineering and timeless beauty. A final bid of $16,830,000 reflects the car’s allure in the high-end market.

richebets, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder: $17,160,000

Another exemplar of the iconic California Spyder, this car is famed for its elegant design and competitive spirit. Selling for $17,160,000, its meticulous restoration and detailed provenance further elevate its value.

Nic Redhead, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 LM: $17,600,000

Sold for $17,600,000, The Ferrari 250 LM remains an example of both speed and sophistication. From its victories on the track to its timeless design, this car has solidified its place as a true icon in automotive history.

Prova MO, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder: $18,045,000

The Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder, with a price of $18,045,000, blends flawless performance with stunning design. Known for its racing triumphs and limited production, the vehicle remains a highly coveted classic in the world of collectors.

MrWalkr, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spyder Competizione: $18,150,000

The Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spyder Competizione is designed with competition in mind, offering enhanced performance and a longer wheelbase. Its track-oriented modifications set it apart from its road-going siblings. An auction price of $18,150,000 highlights its prominence among Ferrari’s racing icons.

Marty B, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 375 Plus Spider: $18,400,177

With a price of $18,400,177, the Ferrari 375 Plus Spider stands as a symbol of 1950s racing excellence. Built for speed and endurance, this open-top legend remains a prized addition to any collection.

NAParish, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder: $18,454,304

Sold for $18,454,304, this Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder is a testament to meticulous restoration and a storied racing past. Revered for its balance of speed and elegance, it remains a crown jewel in the world of classic automobiles.

MrWalkr, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mercedes F1 W04: $18,815,000

With an $18,815,000 auction price, the Mercedes F1 W04 stands as a groundbreaking achievement in racing technology. Cutting-edge engineering and a dominant track record have made it a prized piece of Formula One history.

Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta: $18,997,883

The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta stands out for its striking design and innovative performance. The combination of artistry and engineering was reflected in its $18,997,883 auction price.

Y.Leclercq, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider: $19,800,000

The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider combines open-top driving with timeless Italian elegance. The performance made it a standout at auction, reaching a price of $19,800,000.

Jay Cross, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

McLaren F1 ‘LM-Specification’: $19,805,000

The McLaren F1 ‘LM-Specification’ pushes the boundaries of supercar performance with its track-focused enhancements. Its exclusivity and engineering refinements made it a $19,805,000 auction highlight.

Chelsea Jay, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

McLaren F1: $20,465,000

The original McLaren F1 redefined the supercar world with its groundbreaking design and record-setting speed. Its influence on high-performance engineering is undeniable, reflected in its $20,465,000 auction price.

Chelsea Jay, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin DP215: $21,455,000

The Aston Martin DP215 stands out for its racing pedigree and innovative aerodynamics. With only one ever built, it remains a prized piece of motorsport history, as reflected in its $21,455,000 auction price.

Redsimon, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Jaguar D-Type: $21,780,000

The Jaguar D-Type showcases 1950s racing brilliance with its aerodynamic design and Le Mans triumphs. The vehicle's importance in motorsport history is reflected in its $21,780,000 auction price.

Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Duesenberg SSJ: $22,000,000

The Duesenberg SSJ is a masterpiece of American automotive innovation, built for both speed and style. Its rarity and historical significance are reflected in its $22,000,000 auction price.

dave_z28ca, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 290 MM: $22,005,000

Auctioned for $22,005,000, the Ferrari 290 MM represents the pinnacle of endurance racing engineering. Its rich motorsport history and exceptional craftsmanship make it one of the most coveted Ferraris ever built.

Tino Rossini, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 410 Sport Spider: $22,005,000

With a $22,005,000 auction price, the Ferrari 410 Sport Spider remains a standout in Ferrari’s racing history. Its rarity and impeccable condition only add to its appeal among collectors.

Prova MO, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin DBR1: $22,550,000

The Aston Martin DBR1 is a legendary race car with an illustrious history in British motorsport. Its aerodynamic design and numerous victories have cemented its status as a collector’s dream. A record sale of $22,550,000 attests to its value and historical significance.

Al R, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 410 Sport: $23,000,000

At $23,000,000, the Ferrari 410 Sport commands attention as a combo of power and heritage. Its aggressive design and racing pedigree have cemented its status as a cornerstone of Ferrari’s legacy.

Prova MO, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale: $26,400,000

With race-bred engineering and exceptional craftsmanship, the Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale stands as one of the most coveted models in Ferrari’s history. Its competition pedigree was reflected in its $26,400,000 auction price.

Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S NART Spider: $27,500,000

With only a handful ever built, the Ferrari 275 GTB/4*S NART Spider is a rare mix of beauty and racing pedigree. Its unmistakable design and exclusivity have made it a dream for collectors, a status reinforced by its $27,500,000 auction price.

WikiGenesis, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 290 MM: $28,050,000

With a $28,050,000 auction price, the Ferrari 290 MM continues to command attention as one of the most coveted classic race cars. Designed for endurance and piloted by iconic drivers, its legacy is woven into the fabric of motorsport history.

Dan74, Adobe Stock

Mercedes-Benz W196: $29,600,000

With a $29,600,000 auction price, the Mercedes-Benz W196 remains one of the most significant race cars ever built. A fusion of cutting-edge engineering and elegant design, it redefined motorsport in its era and continues to inspire automotive innovation today.

Dennis Elzinga, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 412P: $30,255,000

Selling for an impressive $30,255,000, the Ferrari 412P is a testament to both engineering excellence and racing heritage. Its aerodynamic design and competitive success make it a standout among Ferrari’s most celebrated models.

David Merrett, England, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 335 S: $35,730,510

Selling for an astonishing $35,730,510, the Ferrari 335 S is a rare gem with a history of dominating the world’s most challenging races. Its cutting-edge engineering and fierce competition pedigree has cemented its place among the most coveted classic race cars.

Mr.choppers, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 LM: $36,344,960

The Ferrari 250 LM remains a standout in the automotive world, celebrated for its racing triumphs and striking design. With only a handful ever built, its rarity adds to its allure among collectors. A sale of $36,344,960 reinforces its appeal.

Commonists, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ferrari 250 GTO: $38,115,000

The Ferrari 250 GTO is widely regarded as the ultimate expression of automotive artistry and performance. The GTO’s racing record and extreme scarcity have made it the holy grail for collectors. Fetching $38,115,000 at auction, it remains a symbol of unparalleled Ferrari heritage.

Mathias Weil, Adobe Stock

Ferrari 250 GTO: $48,405,000

A Ferrari 250 GTO fetched an incredible $48,405,000 at auction, reaffirming its place among the most coveted cars in history. With the design and legendary racing pedigree, the model continues to captivate collectors. This milestone sale highlights the unmatched prestige surrounding the Ferrari 250 GTO.

Dan74, Adobe Stock

Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO: $51,705,000

The hybrid Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO blends two iconic models into a singular, highly coveted masterpiece. With a rich racing pedigree and distinctive engineering, it stands as an ultra-rare collector’s gem. Its final auction price of $51,705,000 underscores its unparalleled status in automotive history.

Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen: $53,917,370

The Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen is celebrated for its revolutionary aerodynamic design and storied racing heritage. A sale price of $53,917,370 secures its position as one of the most valuable pre-war racing cars ever sold. Its streamlined form and pioneering engineering innovations have set new standards in motorsport history. 

Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe: $143,000,000

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is the crown jewel of automotive auctions and an icon of engineering brilliance. Its ultra-scarce status—with only two ever produced—and illustrious racing pedigree have captivated collectors worldwide. Achieving a record-breaking $143,000,000 at auction, it stands unmatched as the most expensive car ever sold.

You May Also Like:

The Most Expensive Muscle Cars

The Most Expensive Movie Cars Ever Made

The Most Expensive Ferraris In The Company's History

Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Sources:  1