3 of the Most Expensive Classic Cars Sold at Auction

While we typically can’t expect to get rich flipping iconic vehicles, some models have nonetheless sold for almost unbelievable prices. Take a look at these three highly valuable pieces of automotive history, with their sales amounts converted and adjusted for inflation.

1956 Aston Martin DBR1

Aston Martin is not only a well-loved name among classic car lovers, but it’s also one of the most important manufacturers in automotive history. It’s no surprise, then, that its pride and joy the DBR1 ranks among the highest-selling auction vehicles of all time. Amounting to only five units in total, the first one ever completed sold at RM Sotheby’s in Monterey last year for an auction price of $22,550,000 (over $29 million CAD), making it the highest auction sale of a British car. Prior to its sale, the DBR1 had won the 1959 Nürburgring 1000 KM and accumulated a reputation as Aston Martin’s most important creation.

1954 Mercedes-Benz W196

Helmed by renowned drivers Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, this Grand Prix-winning legend captured multiple coveted racing titles throughout its historic career during the 1950s. In 2013 it was auctioned off by Bonhams at the Goodwill Festival of Speed for £19,601,500 (over $40 million CAD today), breaking records for the most valuable auction-sold motor car, Formula 1 car, and Mercedes-Benz car. The particular unit sold, famously labeled as “chassis no. 196 010 00006/54”, was the only one held by a private owner rather than a museum or the manufacturer, adding significantly to its value.

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

When looking through the annals of record-breaking car auction history, there are few manufacturers whose names you’ll see quite as frequently as Ferrari. Unsurprisingly, the timeless sports car giant has many high-selling auction models to its name, but the most valuable to date is the 1962 250 GTO. After being owned by the same family for almost fifty years, the car was sold at The Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction in 2014 for $38.1 million USD, later breaking its own record at RM Sotheby’s Monterey in August of this year for $48,405,000 (over $60 million CAD). “Collector’s item” would be an understatement!

Whether or not you have a multi-million dollar auction car to store, taking good care of a classic vehicle will ensure that it is runs well and lasts for as long as possible. An industry-grade lift is one of the best ways to do this, so give Lift King a call at (403) 283-1020 to get yours today!