For automotive enthusiasts and collectors, classic cars are far more than just means of transportation—they’re mobile works of art, legendary race machines, and investment-grade assets. Some command jaw-dropping sums at auction, often matching the value of fine art and historic relics.
Below is a ranking of the top 10 most expensive cars ever sold at auction, ordered by their final sale price in US dollars (including the buyer’s premium).
1. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé
This one-of-only-two coupe iterations of Mercedes’ iconic 300 SLR race car isn’t just the most expensive car ever sold at auction—it’s the most valuable vehicle of any kind to ever cross the auction block. Designed for the Le Mans race but never actually competed, the Uhlenhaut Coupé is both an engineering masterpiece and a design icon. Its sale shattered all previous automotive auction records.
2. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 R “Streamliner”
Driven by Formula 1 legends like Juan Manuel Fangio, the W196 ranks among the most significant race cars in history. The aerodynamic “Streamliner” body style endowed it with exceptional performance on the track. Boasting a legacy of Grand Prix victories and immense historical significance, this sale sent shockwaves through the motorsport world.
3. 1962 Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO
Unique in its class, this is the only 250 GTO originally fitted with a 4.0-liter engine and officially designated as a 330 LM by the factory. Campaigned by Scuderia Ferrari and meticulously preserved over the decades, this rare variant earned the title of the most expensive Ferrari ever sold at a public auction.
4. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO (Chassis 3413GT)
Widely regarded as the most famous Ferrari ever produced, the 250 GTO is the holy grail of collectible automobiles. This specific example boasts a race-winning pedigree, road-legal status, and immaculate preservation—factors that helped it set a record-breaking price at the time of its sale.
5. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO (Chassis 3851GT)
Another stunning 250 GTO, this model was owned and raced by French driver Jo Schlesser. Its uncompromised originality and rich competition history elevated its prestige, making it one of the first cars to break the $30 million+ barrier at auction.
6. 1964 Ferrari 250 LM (Le Mans Champion)
A true motorsport legend, this 250 LM claimed overall victory at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans—marking the last time a Ferrari secured the top spot at the iconic race. Such unparalleled race history is invaluable, and collectors were more than willing to bid accordingly.
7. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti
With only four units ever manufactured and a track record of success in events like the Mille Miglia and Le Mans, the 335 S is an extremely rare gem. The combination of its scarcity, high-performance capabilities, and timeless beauty earned it the distinction of being the most expensive car ever sold in Europe.
8. 1967 Ferrari 412 P Berlinetta
A sibling to the legendary 330 P3/4, the 412 P was Ferrari’s response to Ford’s dominant GT40. Its sleek, curvaceous body, limited production (just a handful were built), and Le Mans heritage made it a dream acquisition for serious collectors.
9. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 (F1 Race Car)
Another variant of the Formula 1-winning W196, this open-wheel model was also piloted by Juan Manuel Fangio. Over a decade ago, it became the most expensive F1 car ever sold when it went under the hammer.
10. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM
Built specifically for the legendary Mille Miglia race and driven by Juan Manuel Fangio himself, the 290 MM was one of Ferrari’s most powerful sports racers of the 1950s. Only four examples were ever produced, and its flawless historical provenance, extreme rarity, and pristine condition solidified its status as one of the most coveted Ferraris to ever hit the auction block.
