Top 15 Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold
The automotive industry has always been a hub of innovation and creativity, constantly pushing the boundaries of design and performance. However, there is a select group of cars that stand above all others in terms of prestige, value, and exclusivity. These are the most expensive cars ever sold, coveted by collectors and car enthusiasts alike.
1 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $29,600,000 (£23,880,600)
The Mercedes-Benz W196 is one of the most expensive cars ever sold, fetching an astounding $29,600,000 (£23,880,600) at auction. This open-wheel, single-seater race car was manufactured for the 1954 and 1955 F1 seasons.
It is renowned not only for its notable owners and drivers but also for its distinctive streamlined body and technological advancements such as its fuel-injected engine and unique suspension design. Its hefty price tag is a testament to its historical significance and rarity in the world of automotive collecting.
2 Ferrari 410 Sport – $22,005,000 (£17,285,587)
The Ferrari 410 Sport is another exceptional addition to the list of the most expensive cars ever sold. This four-wheeled marvel was auctioned off for a staggering $22,005,000 (£17,285,587). Produced solely for the 1955 racing season, only four units of this model were ever built, adding considerably to its exclusivity.
The Ferrari 410 Sport is famous for its powerful 5-litre V12 engine paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, delivering a breathtaking performance on the track. Its iconic status in racing history and limited availability contribute to its high value in the world of car collecting.
3 Ferrari 375-Plus Spider Competizione – $18,400,000 (£14,844,695)
The Ferrari 375-Plus Spider Competizione earns its place among the most expensive cars ever sold with a jaw-dropping auction price of $18,400,000 (£14,844,695). Crafted for the 1954 racing season, this model is one of only five ever made, boosting its exclusivity and desirability amongst collectors.
The car boasts a formidable 4.9-litre V12 engine, producing an astonishing performance that made it a fierce competitor on the racing circuit. Its sale price reflects not only its scarcity but also its significant contribution to Ferrari’s legacy in the racing world.
4 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione – $18,150,000 (£14,643,000)
The Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione is yet another revered automobile in the list of most expensive cars ever sold, having secured an impressive $18,150,000 (£14,643,000) at auction. This model, crafted during the late 1950s, is distinguished by its long wheelbase (LWB) and competitive racing features.
Equipped with a robust 3-litre V12 engine and a classic 4-speed manual transmission, this car showcases Ferrari’s commitment to power and performance. Its rarity, as one of only 50 units produced, coupled with its exemplary track record and timeless design, justify its esteemed position in the world of car collecting.
5 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti – $35,711,359 (£28,737,230 – 1957)
The Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti holds the crown as the most expensive car ever sold, commanding an astronomical price of $35,711,359 (£28,737,230) at auction. This automotive gem, designed for the 1957 racing season, is a testament to Ferrari’s innovative prowess and dedication to unmatched performance.
With a heritage intertwined with historic racing events and famous drivers, the 335 Sport Scaglietti embodies exclusivity and prestige. Its 3.8-litre V12 engine, coupled with impeccable craftsmanship and a legacy steeped in victory, has fast-tracked this model to legendary status in the realm of car collecting. The premium price it fetched underscores its rarity, historical significance, and the enduring allure of the Ferrari brand.
6 Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider – $27,500,000 (1967)
The Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider has earned its prestigious spot amongst the most expensive cars ever sold, hammering for a remarkable $27,500,000 at auction. The ‘NART’ in its name stands for North American Racing Team, an ode to the car’s racing heritage and intended market. This 1967 model stuns enthusiasts with its beautiful design and impressive performance.
Equipped with a 3.3-litre V12 engine, and known for its top-notch handling, the NART Spider was a formidable presence on both the road and track. Adding to its allure, only 10 units of this model were ever produced, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after Ferraris in existence. This combination of rich history, performance, and scarcity justifies the NART Spider’s exalted auction price and its revered status in the arena of car collecting.
7 Mercedes-AMG F1 W04-04 – $18,815,000 (2013)
The Mercedes-AMG F1 W04-04 has secured its prestigious position amongst the most expensive cars ever sold, having been auctioned off for a staggering $18,815,000. This high-performance racing machine, designed for the 2013 Formula One season, showcases Mercedes-AMG’s commitment to innovative design and superior functionality.
With a powerful 2.4-litre V8 engine under its hood and an advanced aerodynamic design, the W04-04 demonstrates an outstanding performance on the track. Its high auction price can be attributed to its association with several championship victories and its limited availability in the market, making it a prized possession among car collectors worldwide.
8 Aston Martin DP215 Competition – $21,455,000 (1963)
The Aston Martin DP215 Competition car is a revered member of the elite club of the most expensive cars ever sold, with a staggering auction price of $21,455,000. Designed for the 1963 racing season, this Aston Martin model is renowned for its exceptional performance and the brand’s commitment to technological innovation.
At its heart lies a powerful engine capable of delivering blistering speed, securing its legendary status on the race track. Its high auction price reflects not only its historical significance in the racing world, but also its rarity and desirability among car collectors. The DP215 Competition’s contribution to Aston Martin’s racing heritage and its tangible connection to a bygone era of motor racing make it a highly coveted piece in the panoramic jigsaw of automotive history.
9 McLaren F1 — $20,465,000 (Gooding & Company, 2021)
The iconic McLaren F1, sold for an astounding $20,465,000 at a Gooding & Company auction in 2021, rightfully earns its place among the most expensive cars ever sold. This 1995 model, renowned for its superior design and performance, represents McLaren’s unwavering commitment to innovation and speed.
The heart of the F1 is a mammoth 6.1-litre V12 engine, a testament to its unparalleled performance capabilities. Notably, the McLaren F1’s distinctive three-seat design, with the driver centrally positioned, creates a unique driving experience, further adding to its appeal. The sale price reflects not merely the car’s rarity and phenomenal performance, but also its cultural significance as an automotive icon. It is a coveted masterpiece in the eyes of collectors, representing an important piece of McLaren’s illustrious heritage.
10 Jaguar D-Type – $21,780,000 (£17,571,600)
The Jaguar D-Type, with its auction price of $21,780,000 (£17,571,600), is undoubtedly a part of the league of the most expensive cars ever sold. This iconic model, designed for the 1955 racing season, is a clear reflection of Jaguar’s commitment to speed and performance.
Its potent 3.4-litre straight-six engine provided the power necessary for multiple Le Mans victories, firmly establishing the D-Type’s position in motorsports history. Its aerodynamic design, with the signature tail fin, was groundbreaking during its era, influencing the future of sports car design. The high auction price underlines its historical significance, rarity, and the enduring appeal of the Jaguar brand. As such, it is highly prized among car collectors, embodying a unique blend of heritage, performance, and design innovation.
11 Ferrari 412P – $30,255,000 (1967)
The Ferrari 412P, sold at an impressive price of $30,255,000, holds an esteemed position among the most expensive cars ever sold. This revered model, conceived for the 1967 racing season, represents Ferrari’s continued commitment to unmatched performance and design. Housing a powerful 4.0-litre V12 engine, the 412P stands as a testament to Ferrari’s engineering prowess.
Known for its remarkable speed and handling on both the track and road, this model has carved a significant niche in Ferrari’s racing history. The high auction price reflects its relative scarcity, historical significance, and enduring appeal among car enthusiasts and collectors. The Ferrari 412P exemplifies the blend of heritage, performance, and pioneering design that makes it an invaluable addition to any automotive collection.
12 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider – $19,800,000 (£15,974,180)
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider, sold at an auction for a commanding $19,800,000 (£15,974,180), is proudly considered amongst the most expensive cars ever sold. This remarkable model, crafted for the 1939 racing season, displays Alfa Romeo’s dedication to superior performance and intricate design.
At its core, a formidable 2.9-litre straight-eight engine ensures an impressive performance on the track. The Lungo Spider’s high auction price is indicative of its distinctive historical significance, relative rarity, and the undying appeal of the Alfa Romeo brand. This model is highly treasured among car collectors as it encapsulates a unique blend of heritage, performance, and design innovation that characterises the golden era of motor racing.
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13 Aston Martin DBR 1 – $22,555,000 (£17,716,275)
The Aston Martin DBR 1, with an auction price of $22,555,000 (£17,716,275), stands with honor among the ranks of the most expensive cars ever sold. This legendary model, designed for the 1956 racing season, is a testament to Aston Martin’s unwavering commitment to speed, performance, and detailed design.
Under the hood, a powerful 3.0-litre, straight-six engine guarantees an impressive performance on the race track. The DBR 1’s high auction price speaks volumes about its historical significance, relative scarcity, and the enduring allure of the Aston Martin brand. Among car collectors, this model is highly coveted, representing a unique blend of heritage, performance, and design innovation that distinctly captures the spirit of its time.
14 Duesenberg Model SSJ Convertible — $22,000,000 (Gooding & Company, 2018)
The Duesenberg Model SSJ Convertible, fetching an auction price of $22,000,000 in 2018, makes its mark among the most expensive cars ever sold. Designed for the 1935 season, this model is a testament to Duesenberg’s commitment to exceptional performance and exquisite design.
At its core is a formidable engine, showcasing the brand’s engineering expertise and ensuring an impressive performance. The Model SSJ Convertible’s high auction price reflects its historical significance, relative rarity, and the enduring charm of the Duesenberg brand. With its unique combination of heritage, performance, and design innovation, this model is a cherished piece among car collectors, representing a defining era in the history of motor racing.
15 Ferrari 290 MM – $22,005,000 (2018)
The Ferrari 290 MM, sold at a commanding price of $22,005,000 in 2018, secures its position among the most expensive cars ever sold. Designed for the 1956 racing season, this model epitomizes Ferrari’s relentless commitment to superior performance and groundbreaking design. Powered by a robust 3.5-litre V12 engine, the 290 MM is an embodiment of Ferrari’s engineering excellence.
Known for its exceptional speed and handling, this model has etched a significant place in the annals of Ferrari’s racing history. Its lofty sale price underscores its relative scarcity, historical significance, and enduring appeal to car enthusiasts and collectors alike. The Ferrari 290 MM is a perfect exemplification of heritage, performance, and innovative design, making it a treasured addition to any car collection.
In conclusion Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold
Tthe world of classic and vintage automobiles is a testament to the evolution of engineering, design, and a deep-rooted passion for speed. These iconic cars, with their astronomical auction prices, are not just vehicles, but pieces of history that highlight the golden eras of motor racing.
Each model embodies a unique blend of heritage, performance, and design innovation that represents the brand’s commitment to excellence. With their relative scarcity and historical significance, these exceptional models continue to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, standing as the undisputed gems in the crown of automotive history.
