While a significant part of car buyers love buying the latest car models, there is a niche group that seeks prestigious vintage vehicles. These collectors are willing to spend millions on cars with a legacy. These vehicles symbolize class, taste, and luxury, commanding high prices at auctions. Here are 8 such cars:
1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
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his car went for $51.7 million at a November 2023 auction. One of the primary reasons for the hefty price tag of this vintage vehicle is its rarity. Only 36 such units were ever built. It’s a symbol of luxury, driven by personalities such as Stirling Moss and Eric Clapton. With a race car heritage, the vehicle featured a 3.0-liter V12 that won numerous races, including the Le Mans and Tour de France Automobile.
1954 Mercedes Benz W196
The 1954 Mercedes Benz W196 is a prestigious vehicle that derives its pride from the races it has won. One such notable race was the Formula One World Champion itself, where it was driven by legendary racer Juan Manuel Fangio. In terms of its handling, it had an advanced suspension system to assist the innovative fuel-injected desmodromic engine. It is not surprising that this championship-winning car is pitched around $30 million in auctions.
1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato
This vintage vehicle was the result of a major collaboration between Aston Martin and Zagato, an Italian design house. It is as exclusive as it gets, with only 19 units being produced. It is sold at around $15 million at auctions, making it a valuable collector’s item. Featuring a 3.7-liter inline-six engine, this vehicle was adored for its sleek, aerodynamic aesthetics. One of the most significant achievements of this Anglo-Italian vehicle was its win at the 1961 Grand Prix when Roy Salvadori drove it.
1936 Buggati Type 57SC Atlantic
One of the most unique and distinctive vehicles ever made, the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is one of a kind. Produced from 1934 to 1940, only three units of this vehicle exist to this day. It sells at around $40 million, attracting collectors from all over the globe who want to get their hands on this rare item. The supercharged 3.3-liter inline-eight engine does not disappoint, providing a thrilling experience. Available in two types, the Original Type 57 and a lowered version, this timeless vehicle fetches an unbelievable price.
1962 Shelby 260 Cobra
The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of the formidable muscle car class, an era defined by sheer performance. The 1962 Shelby 260 Cobra featured the same American muscle but had a British chassis, making this a legendary vehicle. The main reason for installing such power in the British AC Ace chassis is credited to Carroll Shelby. He wanted to merge this with Ford’s 260 cubic-inch V8 engine, creating a beast that dominated the race tracks. Currently, the vehicle auctions are around $15 million, a leading vintage muscle car that transformed the automotive industry.
1957 Ferrari 335 S
The luxurious Ferrari vehicles have dominated the industry since the 1950s, and the 1957 Ferrari 335 S is a prime example. Featuring a 4.0-liter V12 engine, the vehicle easily won races such as Mille Miglia and the 12 Hours of Sebring. It auctions at around $36 million, making it one of the most expensive vintage cars. On top of this, only four units of these were produced, contributing to the rarity factor. It does contain some tragic memories, such as the crash during the 1957 Mille Miglia, killing the driver, co-driver, and many other people around it.
1931 Duesenberg Model J
The 1931 Duesenberg Model J’s bodies were developed by many coachbuilders, including Rollston, LeBaron, and Disbrow. Produced in 1931, it sells for around $22 million, a price that reflects the brand’s legacy. The vehicle was powered by a powerful 6.9-liter straight-eight engine paired with a three-speed manual transmitter. The vehicle symbolized class and luxury; each model was custom-built for celebrities and the wealthy.
1964 Ford GT40
Manufactured to challenge Ferrari’s rising popularity, the 1964 Ford GT40 would go on to become a legendary vehicle. It featured a 4.7-liter V8 engine, the mid-engine layout being a novelty at that time. This vehicle was hell-bent on winning the Le Mans, which it eventually did from 1966 to 1969. Auctioned at around $12 million, this vehicle was one of a kind, carrying a vibrant legacy.
14 Cars with a Reputation for Running Forever and Why They Outperform the Rest
In the dynamic world of automobiles, some cars stand out for their remarkable longevity and enduring performance. These road warriors have earned a reputation for running seemingly forever, outpacing their counterparts. This article will explore 14 such vehicles and the reasons behind their legendary durability.
14 Cars With A Reputation For Running Forever And Why They Outperform The Rest
