In this article, we will delve into the world of antique cars, uncovering the fascinating realm of automotive history and luxury.
Generally, an antique car is a classic car or automobile that is considered to be of historical interest and collector’s value due to its age, rarity, design, or historical significance.
Today, antique cars are more than just vehicles; they are timeless works of art, symbols of craftsmanship, and, of course, status symbols.
Most Expensive Antique Cars Ever Made
The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is indeed the most expensive antique car ever sold. With a price tag of over $48 million, this classic car was sold at $70 million on a private sale between Christian Gläsel and David MacNeil in 2018. The Ferrari 250 GTO is celebrated not only for its rarity but also for its racing pedigree and timeless design, making it a symbol of automotive excellence and an icon among classic car enthusiasts.
Below are more remarkable cars and their prices. Our curated list showcases the top ten most expensive antique cars in history, each possessing a unique blend of rarity, design, and historical significance.
#10. 1904 Rolls-Royce 10 HP: (Price: $7.26M)
Rolls-Royce is a name synonymous with luxury, and the 1904 Rolls-Royce 10 HP was one of their earliest creations. This antique car represents the genesis of the iconic brand, known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. Owning a piece of Rolls-Royce history is a dream for many collectors.
#9. 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S Torpedo Roadster: (Price: $8.25M)
With its sleek design, powerful engine, and exquisite craftsmanship, it’s no wonder that this beauty carries a staggering price tag. A true symbol of opulence and elegance, it combines luxury with performance like no other car of its time.
Just imagine cruising down the open road in this remarkable vintage vehicle, turning heads wherever you go.
What sets the 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S Torpedo Roadster apart from other antique cars is its scarcity. Only three models were ever built, making it an extremely rare find for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Its timeless design has stood the test of time, capturing the hearts of many who appreciate automotive artistry. It represents a bygone era when automobiles were not just a means of transportation but works of art created by skilled artisans dedicated to their craft.
#8. 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante: (Price: $10M)
Known for its breathtaking beauty and unparalleled engineering, this high-performance luxury car has become synonymous with elegance and sophistication. With only 17 ever produced, it’s no wonder that collectors are willing to pay top dollar to own this piece of automotive history.
The allure of the Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante lies not only in its scarcity but also in its remarkable craftsmanship. Every curve and detail on this iconic vehicle is a testament to the skill and artistry of its creators.
From its sleek aerodynamic design to its powerful supercharged engine, every aspect of this car is engineered for perfection.
#7. 1931 Duesenberg Model J Long-Wheelbase Coupe: (Price: $10M)
This majestic masterpiece of automotive engineering is a true gem that commands attention wherever it goes. With its sleek lines and luxurious interior, it’s no wonder that this antique beauty holds a place in the hearts of car enthusiasts all over the world.
Only two dozen examples of this stunning coupe were ever built, making it an incredibly rare find for any collector. And because these cars were handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail and outfitted with only the finest materials available at the time, they come at a hefty price – one recent sale reaching an astonishing $10 million!
#6. 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner Coupe: (Price: $14M)
The 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner Coupe is often referred to as the “King of Cars.” With its grandeur and exceptional craftsmanship, it was reserved for royalty and the elite. Its majestic design and rarity make it one of the most coveted antique cars in the world.
What makes this vehicle truly exceptional is not just its exorbitant cost, but also its rarity – only six of these cars were ever produced. The Royale Kellner Coupe features sleek and elegant lines that have withstood the test of time.
From its opulent exterior to its lavish interior adorned with rich leather seats and polished wood accents, every inch of this automobile represents true craftsmanship.
#5. 1957 Jaguar XKSS: (Price: $18M)
This exquisite automobile boasts a stunning combination of classic British design and cutting-edge features for its era, including a 3.4-liter straight-six engine that delivered thrilling performance. What truly sets the XKSS apart is its exclusivity, with only a handful ever produced.
Originally intended as a road-going version of the iconic D-Type race car, this Jaguar’s allure lies in its unique blend of racing heritage and luxurious refinement, making it a prized possession for collectors and a symbol of automotive sophistication.
#4. 1935 Duesenberg SSJ: (Price: $22M)
The 1935 Duesenberg SSJ stands as an iconic testament to automotive luxury and exclusivity, commanding its place among the most expensive antique cars in history. Its staggering price tag, reflective of its extreme rarity, places it at the pinnacle of automotive collectibles.
What truly sets the SSJ apart are its remarkable features, including a supercharged 400-horsepower engine, a technological marvel of its era that still captivates enthusiasts today.
With only two ever built, the Duesenberg SSJ represents a harmonious blend of timeless design and extraordinary performance, making it a symbol of opulence that continues to captivate the hearts of automotive aficionados and collectors alike.
#3. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196: (Price: $29.6M)
This legendary car, with its sleek silver exterior and powerful engine, has become the crown jewel of vintage automobile collectors. Recently sold for a mind-boggling $29.6 million at an auction, this exquisite machine is undoubtedly one of the most expensive antique cars in history.
What makes the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 worth such a hefty price? Well, besides its undeniable beauty and historical significance, it holds an impressive racing pedigree.
Driven by the iconic Formula One racer Juan Manuel Fangio during his championship-winning season in 1954, this car represents a golden era of motor racing. Its unique design features innovative elements like fuel injection technology and streamlined bodywork that set it apart from other cars of its time.
#2. 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic: (Price: $40M)
The 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is an undisputed masterpiece and one of the most expensive antique cars ever, commanding an exorbitant price tag that attests to its unparalleled rarity and enduring allure.
What sets the Atlantic apart are its mesmerizing features, including a streamlined and distinctly aerodynamic design that was cutting-edge in its time. Under its sleek hood lies a 3.3-liter inline-eight engine that provided both power and elegance in equal measure.
With only four examples ever produced, this Bugatti is celebrated not only for its mechanical excellence but also for its status as a work of art on wheels, a testament to Ettore Bugatti’s visionary craftsmanship, and a symbol of luxury, making it the ultimate dream for discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.
#1. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: (Price: $48M)
This beauty is not just a vehicle; it’s a piece of art. With only 36 models ever produced, seeing one in person is truly a rare and extraordinary experience.
The allure of its sleek, aerodynamic design combined with its powerful V12 engine makes it an absolute dream for any car enthusiast. What sets the Ferrari 250 GTO apart from other antique cars is not just its outstanding performance but also its prestigious racing history.
This iconic masterpiece has proven itself on some of the most renowned racing tracks around the world, showcasing both elegance and speed.
Its unrivalled combination of power and style has made it highly sought after among collectors, leading to eye-watering price tags at auctions that go well into millions.
The purchase of the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO by David MacNeil in 2018 set a new record for classic car sales. MacNeil, the founder of WeatherTech, a company known for automotive accessories, acquired the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO for a remarkable $70 million in a private sale.
This purchase solidified the car’s status as one of the most valuable and sought-after collector’s items in the automotive world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these ten antique cars represent the epitome of luxury, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Owning one of these masterpieces is not just about having a vintage car; it’s about possessing a piece of history and a symbol of automotive excellence.
As the demand for these rare gems continues to grow, their value and prestige in the world of antique car collecting will remain unparalleled.
