Ranked: The 10 Most Expensive Cars Ever Sold at Auction
Read next: Formula 1 World Champions — A legacy of racing legends
Discover the most expensive cars ever sold at auction, from rare Ferrari models to legendary Mercedes-Benz vehicles. See the top 10 high-value cars that broke records.
Introduction to the World of Car Auctions
The world of car auctions has seen some of the rarest and most valuable vehicles ever sold. From legendary Ferrari models to iconic Mercedes-Benz cars, these auctions have brought significant attention to rare automobiles, with many fetching sky-high prices. While we’ve previously discussed the top Formula 1 cars sold privately, here we’ll dive into the wider world of automobile auctions, highlighting the 10 most expensive cars ever sold.
10 – 1956 Ferrari 290 MM – $28 Million (2015)
A prominent figure in this list is the 1956 Ferrari 290 MM, which sold for a staggering $28 million in 2015. This model featured the five-time World Champion Juan Manuel Fangio behind the wheel during the 1956 Mille Miglia, where he finished in fourth place. Known for its rarity and Fangio’s historic involvement, this Ferrari's unique history and previous ownership contributed to its impressive price at auction.
9 – 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 – $29.6 Million (2013)
Holding the title of the most expensive Formula 1 car for over a decade, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 was sold for $29.6 million at Goodwood in 2013. This iconic car helped Juan Manuel Fangio secure victories at the German and European Grands Prix, along with a win in Switzerland during the same year, ultimately contributing to his second World Championship.
8 – 1967 Ferrari 412P – $30.2 Million (2023)
The 1967 Ferrari 412P holds significant pedigree, having been driven by renowned drivers like Piers Courage and Jo Siffert. It was also involved in multiple podium finishes at Le Mans and the 1000km of Spa. In 2023, after an extensive restoration, the 412P was sold for $30.2 million, showcasing its historical value and unique features.
7 – 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti – $35.7 Million (2016)
The 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti set a world record when it was sold for $35.7 million at an Artcurial auction in Paris. With notable drivers like Mike Hawthorn and Stirling Moss racing this car, its historical significance and racing pedigree made it highly sought after. Although rumors swirled that football stars Messi and Ronaldo were bidding on it, the car remains a priceless piece of racing history.
6 – 1965 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti – $36.2 Million (2025)
In February 2025, the 1965 Ferrari 250 LM by Scaglietti was sold for an impressive $36.2 million. This Le Mans-winning Ferrari made history as the only privateer Ferrari entry to win the prestigious race. Raced by Jochen Rindt, Masten Gregory, and Ed Hugus, its remarkable endurance pedigree contributed to its record-breaking auction price.
5 – 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta – $38.1 Million (2014)
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta, chassis 3851GT, achieved $38.1 million at auction in 2014. This particular model competed in the 5,500km Tour de France Automobile and stayed with the same owner for 49 years before being auctioned. Its racing legacy and limited availability helped secure its spot as one of the most valuable Ferrari models ever sold.
4 – 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti – $48.4 Million (2018)
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti (chassis 3413GT) sold for $48.4 million in 2018. As the third 250 GTO ever made, this model had significant racing success, including victories in the Targa Florio and the Italian GT Championship. Its combination of sporting achievement and historical importance made it one of the most valuable cars on the market.
3 – 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti – $51.7 Million (2023)
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by Scaglietti, chassis number 7, was sold in 2023 for $51.7 million. This model is famous for its racing pedigree, including victories at the Nurburgring 1000km and a class win at the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans. With a rich history in Ferrari’s sports car program, its sale solidified its position as one of the most expensive cars in history.
2 – 1954 Mercedes W196R Streamliner – $53.9 Million (2025)
The 1954 Mercedes W196R Streamliner, sold for $53.9 million in 2025, became the most expensive Formula 1 car ever sold. Driven by Juan Manuel Fangio at the Buenos Aires Grand Prix, the Streamliner is a rare and important piece of motorsport history. With only two of these cars in existence, its auction price reflected its rarity and connection to motorsport legends.
1 – 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé – $143 Million (2022)
At the top of the list is the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, which fetched a world-record $143 million in 2022. This road-going version of the 300 SLR sports car, which had already enjoyed racing success, is one of only two models ever produced. Its rare combination of high-performance technology, historical significance, and limited production make it the most expensive car ever sold at auction.
The car auction world continues to break records, with these legendary vehicles commanding eye-watering prices. Whether through racing success, rarity, or exceptional craftsmanship, these cars represent the pinnacle of automotive excellence and continue to captivate collectors worldwide.
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