Classic cars have always held a special place in the hearts of collectors, car enthusiasts, and investors. These automotive gems represent more than just engineering marvels; they are pieces of history, style, and prestige. The most expensive cars ever sold at auction often command prices that make headlines around the world, fetching sums that rival the value of entire estates. These extraordinary vehicles are not just for driving—they are works of art and symbols of wealth. In this article, we will explore the top 10 most expensive classic cars ever sold at auction, showcasing the stories behind these masterpieces and what makes them worth millions.

10. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM – $28.05 Million

Rounding out the top 10, the 1956 Ferrari 290 MM sold for $28.05 million at an RM Sotheby’s auction in New York in 2015. This car had a storied racing history, with Juan Manuel Fangio driving it in the Mille Miglia, helping it secure its place in classic car history. The 290 MM’s powerful V12 engine and connection to racing legends contributed to its high auction price, making it one of the most expensive Ferraris ever sold.

Watch the video to see the 1956 Ferrari 290 MM at The Petersen Automotive Museum Auction!

9. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $29.6 Million

The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Grand Prix car achieved a price of $29.6 million in 2013 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This car, driven by Juan Manuel Fangio, helped secure Mercedes-Benz’s place in motorsport history. The W196 was the only car of its type outside of the manufacturer’s own collection at the time of the sale, which made it even more valuable. The combination of its rare design and legendary drivers ensured that the W196 fetched an incredible price.

Check out the video to see the 1954 Mercedes Benz W196 return to Formula One racing!

8. 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta – $30.25 Million

The 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta is another rare Ferrari that captivated bidders, selling for $30.25 million at the Bonhams Quail Auction in 2023. This car is one of only two built for racing customers, and its rich history in motorsports, coupled with a nine-year restoration, made it highly desirable. The fact that the car was fully road-legal after such extensive racing use further added to its appeal, offering a rare combination of performance, history, and practicality.

Watch the video to see the 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta in all its glory!

7. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti – $35.7 Million

The 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti has a racing history that spans the Mille Miglia and Le Mans. Its $35.7 millionauction price in 2016 reflects not just its stunning curves, but its racing pedigree. This open-top car, built for speed, was made for competitions and earned a reputation for its dominance on the track. As an example of Ferrari’s commitment to engineering excellence, the 335 Sport Scaglietti continues to be a symbol of the brand’s motorsport legacy.

Check out the video to find out how much the 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti sold for, featured on BBC News!

6. 1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti – $36.2 Million

The 1964 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti fetched $36.2 million at a RM Sotheby’s auction in Paris in 2025. This particular model, which is one of the few examples of the 250 LM, holds special significance due to its incredible Le Mans history. After spending 57 years as part of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum’s collection, the car was sold in pristine condition, with original components and extensive historical documentation. This combination of racing success and historical preservation drove its high price tag.

Watch the video to see the returning hero – the 1965 Le Mans-winning Ferrari 250 LM back in Maranello!

5. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $38.1 Million

Another Ferrari 250 GTO sold for $38.1 million at an auction in 2014, setting a new record at the time. This Berlinetta model was built to compete in the 1963 FIA World GT Championship, which it won. Only 36 examples were made, and the Ferrari 250 GTO continues to be regarded as the gold standard in classic cars. The racing pedigree, combined with the sleek styling and powerful engine, has ensured that these cars remain some of the most expensive vehicles on the market today.

Check out the video to see the world’s most expensive car – a $38M Ferrari that broke the car auction record!

4. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO 341311 – $48.4 Million

The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is perhaps the most famous classic Ferrari in the world. The version with chassis number 341311 sold for $48.4 million at an auction in 2018, showcasing the car’s enduring value. This specific car has a rich history in racing, including victories in the Targa Florio and the Italian GT Championship. In addition to its impressive racing pedigree, it is one of the most well-preserved and meticulously restored Ferrari 250 GTOs, making it a standout in the classic car world. The 250 GTO’s combination of racing success, stunning design, and rarity have made it a long-time favorite among collectors.

Watch the video to see the full auction of the $48M 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO at Monterey Car Week!

3. 1962 Ferrari 330 LM 250 GTO by Scaglietti – $51.7 Million

The 1962 Ferrari 330 LM 250 GTO by Scaglietti took $51.7 million at an auction in 2023, cementing its place as one of the most coveted Ferrari models in the world. This particular 330 LM 250 GTO is notable for its unique race history, having been raced by Ferrari’s official team. With wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Nürburgring, the car boasts a rich legacy. Ferrari produced only 36 250 GTOs, making each one incredibly rare. This model, which spent 38 years in a private collection, remains one of the most sought-after and expensive Ferrari cars in existence.

Check out the video to see the $51.7 million Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO on display at Sotheby’s New York!

2. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner – $53.9 Million

Next up is the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner, which sold for $53.9 million. This car is famous for its connection to legendary Formula 1 driver Juan Manuel Fangio. The W196 R is one of only four examples with the distinctive Stromlinienwagen bodywork. Its exceptional racing heritage, including success at the hands of Fangio and Sir Stirling Moss, combined with its rarity, pushed this car’s price to astronomical heights. The Streamliner is now a crown jewel in any collection, embodying Mercedes-Benz’s engineering brilliance and motorsport success.

Watch the video to see Toto drive the legendary Mercedes W 196!

1. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe – $135 Million

The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe holds the title of the most expensive classic car ever sold at auction, with a price tag of $135 million. This legendary car was named after Mercedes’ chief engineer and designer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, and only two units were ever produced. The 300 SLR is a true racing icon, originally built as a competition car, and despite never having raced, its legacy is undeniable. The auction was an invite-only event, held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Germany, adding an air of exclusivity to the sale. The car’s rarity, racing lineage, and the fact that it was only driven 3,756 miles over seven decades made it an invaluable collector’s item.

Check out the video to learn about the world’s most expensive car – the 300 SLR!

Conclusion: The Everlasting Allure of Classic Cars

The most expensive classic cars in the world are more than just machines—they are pieces of history, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. With limited production, impeccable design, and extraordinary performance, cars like the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe and the Ferrari 250 GTO have become symbols of automotive excellence.

These vehicles not only carry with them the prestige of their manufacturers but also represent the pinnacle of what collectors and investors seek in vintage automobiles. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or investor, the allure of these classic cars is undeniable, and their remarkable auction prices show no signs of slowing down.