As we approach a new year, it’s time to take stock of 2018, and in the world of classic cars, it has been a very interesting 12 months indeed, not least because of some of the beauties which have been sold at auction.
The Automobile magazine platform has compiled the top five most expensive classic cars to go under the hammer this year. So let’s take a look at them, from five to one:
5. 1961 Aston Martin MP209 DB4GT Zagato ‘2 VEV’ – $13,302,239
This Aston Martin has a rich racing history, having been driven by luminaries such as Jim Clark at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. When the car was sold at the Sussex motor racing showpiece, it went for the highest price ever for an Aston Martin sold at auction. However, that title was taken later in the year by the next entry in the list.
4. 1963 Aston Martin DP215 Grand Touring Competition Prototype – $21,455,000
Another entry for the Brits, this early ’60s creation was put through its paces at international racing events, including the Le Mans 24 Hours race, where it was more than a match for the Ferraris competing. Since its racing days, the vehicle has been lovingly restored to its former glory over the decades and will now be making somebody very happy for a princely eight-figure sum.
3. 1935 Duesenberg SSJ – $22,000,000
This Duesenberg SSJ, an American vehicle of which there is only two in the world, has a somewhat sexy history to it. Remember Gary Cooper, the star of many Westerns including High Noon? Well, he is the former owner of this rarity, which presumably did its value no harm at all.
2. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM – $22,005,000
Who doesn’t love a Ferrari? There’s love, and then there’s $22,005,000 worth of love. That’s what was paid at RM Sotheby’s for this former member of the Ferrari Scuderia racing fleet. It has been driven by racing legends from Fangio to Hill.
1. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $48,405,000
Taking top spot by some considerable distance is one of 33 1962 Ferrari 250 GTOs ever made. Staggeringly, it has been suggested that the vehicle would have fetched even more if it wasn’t for a re-body job. It retains its original engine and gearbox, which is surprising given its years as a racing car.
If we can ascertain one thing from Automobile magazine’s list – it’s that the classic car market is alive and well!
