1. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spider – $18.5 Million
The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spider was sold for $18.5 million, making it the fifth most expensive vintage car ever auctioned. Vintage Duesenberg at auction often fetch similar attention, as these classic cars are highly coveted by collectors. This black Spider was previously owned by several famous actors, including Gerard Blain and Alain Delon, who starred in Airport ’77. Jane Fonda also owned this car, and there is a well-known photograph of her posing with it in the mid-1960s.
What made this sale remarkable was that the car was rediscovered after being thought lost or destroyed. Its rarity, history, and connection to Hollywood celebrities made it highly desirable among collectors.
2. 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale – $26.4 Million
Sold for $26.4 million at Pebble Beach, this 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale is one of only three ever made. It features a duotone grey finish, a 320-horsepower engine, and six Weber carburettors. The car was handcrafted and includes a transaxle gearbox, making it a unique masterpiece.
The other two Specials are stored in climate-controlled garages and are unlikely to be sold anytime soon, making this auction a rare opportunity.
3. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 S NART Spider – $27.7 Million
The 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 S NART Spider fetched $27.7 million at auction. “NART” stands for North American Racing Team, a series Enzo Ferrari created exclusively for the American market. Only 10 NART Spiders were produced, making them extremely rare.
This particular Spider was originally donated for a charitable cause. It was later fully restored with a quad-cam engine and a wishbone independent suspension, making it a standout model. Its rarity, performance, and charitable origins contributed to its high auction price.
4. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Silver Arrow – $29.6 Million
The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Silver Arrow was sold for $29.6 million, making it the second most expensive vintage car ever auctioned. This model was driven by Juan Manuel Fangio, a legendary Grand Prix champion. Only 13 Silver Arrows still exist, with Mercedes-Benz owning six of them.
The Silver Arrow was ahead of its time with desmodromic valve actuation. Unlike traditional four-stroke engines, it had two separate actuators to open and close the valves without relying on springs. Its fuel injection system improved performance, making it a groundbreaking race car.
5. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta – $38 Million
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta holds the record for the most expensive vintage car ever sold at auction, fetching $38 million. It was the first 250 GTO auctioned after years of exclusive ownership, making the sale historic. Interestingly, the auction took place on the anniversary of Enzo Ferrari’s death, adding sentimental value.
The GTO (Gran Turismo Omologato) is considered one of the greatest Ferraris ever made. Its racing success, rarity, and cutting-edge features, like disc brakes, make it highly valuable. With only 36 units ever produced, the GTO is a rare gem that commands top-dollar bids.
Vintage cars continue to break auction records, attracting the attention of collectors worldwide. Their timeless appeal, historical significance, and exclusivity make them valuable assets that are appreciated over time.