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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

A blue Ford GT sports car is displayed indoors at a classic car show, parked in front of a sign that reads "GAA Classic Cars.

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 21, 2025

GAA Classic Cars Recaps Successful November Sale

GAA Classic Cars celebrates a successful November auction. Auction houses across the country see classic cars and collector-worthy masterpieces crossing the block, with the gavel often announcing impressive values for cars that are cherished by their owners, and with an exciting setting for them to change hands during auction sales. One of those is GAA Cars, and with its November sale coming to a close, the auction house is celebrating the many successes that took place during the auction, including the sales of supercars, classics, and muscle heroes. A 78-percent sell-through rate included a 2018 Ford GT, which was the top seller at $918,000. It’s finished in Liquid Blue, with just eleven miles on its odometer. Following behind was a cherished classic: a 1970 Plymouth Superbird, which sold for $459,000, and a 1968 Shelby GT500KR in Acapulco Blue, which sold for $334,800. Other highlights from the auction other Shelby masterpieces, like a 1966 GT350H with a high bid of $190,000, a 1967 GT500 which sold for $237,600, a 1969 GT350 selling for $141,480, and a 1970 GT500 for $156,600. In addition to that, a modern American performance pinnacle also sold at the auction, a 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 with only 323 miles. Part of the Wilkerson No Reserve Collection and finished in Blade Silver, it sold for $280,000. A group of four cars from 1967 was included in the top ten sellers at the GAA Classic Cars November Auction this year, two Corvettes selling for $172,800 and $167,400, and two Mustangs selling for $237,600 and $162,000. The auction raised $180,000 for charity, as well, giving added meaning and purpose to an exciting sale of classic and collector-worthy cars. With some desirable sellers crossing the block and cause supported along with that, the November 2025 sale from GAA Classic Cars was one to remember. View All Luxury & Exotic Cars For Sale Image Source: GAA Classic Cars

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 04, 2025

Record-Breaking Bugatti Veyron Leads Broad Arrow's $13.7M...

Big sales in Sin City. Broad Arrow’s inaugural Las Vegas Auction this past weekend, at Wynn Las Vegas provided a clear picture of what buyers are paying attention to today in the collector car world. Held alongside the Concours at Wynn Las Vegas, the auction event showcased a mix of classic and modern cars, bringing together buyers and enthusiasts for a carefully curated, single-day sale. By the end of it all, 82% of lots had sold, and the auction totaled $13.7 million in sales. Eli Rodriguez kept the pace steady, moving through the catalog efficiently while giving each lot its moment to shine on stage for all to see. The room had the deliberate, attentive, and competitive energy you’d expect from serious collectors going head-to-head for some of the most desirable cars on the market. The top lot was a 2010 Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 Coupe, low mileage and freshly serviced, which sold for $2,205,000. That number set a record for a standard Veyron at auction, but what stood out more was the quiet respect for the car’s legacy as a pioneer and timeless icon in the hypercar world. In addition, a 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster went for $1.83 million, and a 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage closed at $1.116 million, proving that classic cars remain strong contenders even alongside the latest and greatest supercars. Top Ten Sales 2010 Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 Coupe – $2,205,000 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster – $1,831,000 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage – $1,116,000 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S – $885,000 2017 Ferrari F12berlinetta 70th Anniversary Edition “The Ingrid” – $665,000 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe by MSO – $610,000 2022 Ferrari SF90 Spider – $502,750 1963 Maserati 3500 GTI Vignale Spyder Prototype – $500,000 1967 Ferrari 330 GTC – $450,500 2023 Ferrari 296 GTS Assetto Fiorano – $412,000 For a first event, Broad Arrow seemed to hit the right notes with solid sales, engaged bidders, and benchmark prices that reflect where the market stands as a whole. With momentum from this debut, Broad Arrow is turning its attention to the 2026 global calendar, where there’s likely more events and a few more records waiting to be set. All Broad Arrow Inventory View this post on Instagram A post shared by Broad Arrow Auctions (@broadarrow_auctions) Source: Broad Arrow Auctions

By Khris Bharath – October 27, 2025

RM Sotheby’s to Highlight Record-Setting Lineup at Abu Dh...

Sotheby’s is set to stage its inaugural Collectors’ Week in Abu Dhabi between December 2-5, 2025. Backed by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the event will combine multimillion-dollar auctions and curated exhibitions at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Saadiyat Island is already home to the Louvre, Abu Dhabi, and the soon-to-open Guggenheim. It’s the first event of its kind in the region; the auctions will span high jewelry, rare timepieces, and luxury real estate through Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions and RM Sotheby’s. Car collectors can look forward to a standout docket featuring 15 lots of rare and desirable automobiles. RM Sotheby’s and McLaren Racing are teaming up for a one-of-a-kind “Triple Crown” auction featuring three future competition cars, including a 2026 Formula 1 chassis, a 2027 World Endurance Hypercar racer, and a 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar entry. Each will also be bundled with VIP experiences, including factory tours and future car access. Staying with McLaren, the lineup also includes a 2019 McLaren Senna ($850k-$1.2 million) and two of Gordon Murray’s most significant creations, a 1994 McLaren F1 (~$21 million) and a 2025 GMA T.50 (~$5.0million). Other highlights include a 2017 Pagani Zonda Riviera ($9.5-$10.5 million), a 1990 Ferrari F40 ($3.2-$3.7 million), and a 2010 Aston Martin One-77 ($1.3-$1.6 million). Collectors’ Week also coincides with one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest times of the year, with several international events coming to town, including the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit 2025, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, Bitcoin MENA, and the annual Formula One Grand Prix at Yas Marina, the final race on the calendar. The event is timed to draw the same high-net-worth crowd already in town for these global events. This initiative cements Abu Dhabi’s growing influence in the luxury and auction sectors and follows the Emirate’s recent $1 billion investment in Sotheby’s, led by ADQ, the region’s third-largest sovereign wealth fund. The move marks the first major Arab minority stake in the 281-year-old auction house and signals Sotheby’s long-term expansion in the GCC region. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory 1994 McLaren F1 $21,000,000+ View Listing 2026 McLaren Formula 1 Team MCL40A $10,000,000 - $12,000,000 View Listing 2017 Pagani Zonda Riviera $9,500,000 - $10,500,000 View Listing 2027 McLaren United Autosport WEC Hypercar Team LMDh $6,000,000 - $8,000,000 View Listing 2025 Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 $5,000,000+ View Listing 1990 Ferrari F40 $5,000,000+ View Listing 2011 Ferrari SA Aperta ~$1,500,000 - $1,800,000 View Listing 2010 Aston Martin One-77 $1,300,000 - $1,600,000 View Listing 2021 Bentley Bacalar $900,000 - $1,300,000 View Listing 2019 McLaren Senna $850,000 - $1,200,000 View Listing 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO $850,000 - $950,000 View Listing 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale A $750,000 - $950,000 View Listing 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team Dallara-Chevrolet DW12 $500,000 - $700,000 View Listing 2006 Lamborghini Murciélago Roadster $500,000 - $600,000 View Listing 1995 Porsche 911 Carrera RS $370,000 - $450,000 View Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 16, 2025

Richmond Auctions Presents The Tony Townley Collection, F...

Spanning decades of automotive history, the Tony Townley Collection brings together over 100 cars and 400 pieces of vintage advertising. Tony Townley, celebrated among collectors for his keen eye and deep appreciation of automotive heritage, has assembled a collection that captures the evolution of American motoring. From elegant pre-war classics to 1950s icons and high-performance muscle cars, each piece reflects its era’s style, innovation, and cultural significance. Richmond Auctions will host the onsite sale in Bogart, Georgia, on October 24 and 25, offering enthusiasts an unmissable opportunity to experience some of the most prized vehicles in private collections. Pre-war offerings highlight the craftsmanship and luxury of early motoring, with standout cars including a 1929 Duesenberg and a 1930 Cadillac V-16 Sport Phaeton. These vehicles showcase sweeping lines, meticulously crafted interiors, and engineering that defined an era. The collection then moves into the 1950s, a decade of bold colors and chrome, with models like the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Fuel Injected convertible and the 1957 Pontiac Bonneville Fuel Injected convertible. These cars capture the optimism and flair of postwar America, combining style with innovative engineering that still resonates with collectors today. The muscle car selection is nothing short of legendary. From a 1965 Shelby GT350 and 1969 Yenko Camaro to a low-mileage 1969 Charger Daytona and a 1970 GT500, the collection includes some of the most sought-after performance cars ever built. Rare pieces such as the 1970 Boss 429 and 1971 Hemi 4-Speed Cuda demonstrate the raw power and engineering excellence that defined the muscle car era. Beyond the vehicles, 400 pieces of advertising history—from vintage dealership brochures to promotional materials—offer context, showing how these cars were marketed and celebrated in their day. Viewing is available by appointment in the days leading up to the auction, with extended hours on October 23 through 25. The Tony Townley Collection is a chance to connect with automotive history on a personal level, to see the design, performance, and storytelling that have made these vehicles icons. For collectors and enthusiasts, few opportunities offer such a rich and varied glimpse into America’s automotive past. All Richmond Auction Inventory Auction Highlights 1929 Duesenberg Model J View Listing 1970 Plymouth Superbird View Listing 1970 Ford Mustang Boss View Listing 1930 Cadillac V16 View Listing 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 View Listing 1957 Pontiac Bonneville View Listing 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R View Listing 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Yenko View Listing 1970 Plymouth Cuda View Listing 1971 Dodge Challenger View Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 08, 2025

Fall Carlisle Auction Wraps 2025 with $5.5 Million in Sales

Carlisle Auctions ends its 2025 season strong as Fall Carlisle records $5.5 million in sales, top consignments, and major charity wins. The collector car world turned its attention to Pennsylvania at the start of this October as Carlisle Auctions wrapped up its 2025 season with a record-setting Fall Carlisle Collector Car Auction. Held over the weekend at the Carlisle Expo Center, the event welcomed enthusiasts, collectors, and sellers for two days of intense bidding and fuel-driven energy. With more than 450 consignments crossing the block, spanning everything from a 1906 classic to modern muscle, the fall finale was the year’s standout, generating over $5.5 million in total sales and selling more than half of all vehicles offered. Auctioneers Michael Adcock and Jeffrey Knosp kept the pace electric, guiding bidders through an eclectic mix of American icons, European exotics, and rare collectibles. This year also marked the debut of the “All-Import Hour,” spotlighting a curated lineup of foreign favorites, including the top-selling 1965 Porsche 356, which brought $66,000. In addition to the cars, the event highlighted Carlisle’s dedication to charitable giving. Two major causes, Fund the Firehouse and Harley’s Haven Dog Rescue, took center stage, collectively raising over $26,000. A 2002 Lexus sold for $5,500 to benefit Enola Fire Company #3, while a 1952 GMC 1-Ton Pickup brought in $16,750 for Harley’s Haven, reminding everyone that the auction floor can be about more than horsepower and price tags. Rounding out the excitement were the auction’s top overall sellers, led by a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette fetching $145,800. A 1963 Corvette followed at $127,500, alongside a 1958 Chevrolet Impala at $98,280 and a 1969 Camaro that sold for $87,480, all prices including applicable fees. “We’re thrilled to end 2025 on such a high note,” said Tony Cline, Director of Auction Operations. “Our consignors, bidders, and dedicated staff made this season one to remember.” Carlisle Auctions looks ahead to 2026, beginning with Spring Carlisle, returning April 23–24 to the Carlisle Expo Center. Source: Carlisle Auctions

A factory white Ferrari 250 GTO with the number 10 on the door is parked on a rural road, surrounded by grass and trees under a clear sky—a stunning sight reminiscent of a Mecum Kissimmee Auction classic.

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 06, 2025

The ONLY Factory White Ferrari 250 GTO Set to Headline Me...

This one-of-a-Kind 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is set to make history. Few Ferraris carry the weight of legend like the 250 GTO, and none are as even remotely memorable as Chassis 3729GT, affectionately celebrated as Bianco Speciale. Built between 1962 and 1964, this is one of only 36 ever made, but it's the only example finished in a factory-optioned Bianco Speciale livery. That single shade alone glorifies it as a standout in Ferrari history. Rather than undergo a nut-and-bolt restoration, the car has been meticulously maintained, repaired, and refinished over the decades, preserving as much original fabric as possible. Collectors consider it the most desirable Ferrari of all time, and this GTO's status cements its place at the absolute top of its league. Chassis 3729GT's racing résumé reads like a who's who of 1960s motorsport. In its debut at Brands Hatch during the Peco Trophy on August 6, 1962, Roy Salvadori drove it to a second-place finish. Two weeks later, at Goodwood's RAC Tourist Trophy, Graham Hill jumped in and also landed second, helping Ferrari secure the GT Manufacturers' crown for 1962. In 1963, Mike MacDowel took the wheel twice, including at the Whitsun Trophy and British Grand Prix GT race, and Jack Sears delivered the car's first GT class victory in August. Driven by racing heroes like Salvadori, Hill, MacDowel, Salmon, and Sears, Bianco Speciale made its mark without a single class win, which was its only flaw. Despite its aggressive debut in racing circles, the GTO also holds a softer side, retaining every unpolished characteristic that defines its original Italian spirit. John Coombs, the owner who commissioned it in 1962, sent the car to Scaglietti and requested the unthinkable: a pearly white paint finish. At the time, Ferrari insisted on reds, but Coombs pulled strings, working through Alfredo Reali to deliver a genuine exception. That rare stroke of influence turned Bianco Speciale into an automotive anomaly, with its livery forever separating it from its ruby-red siblings. Even its influence went beyond Ferrari. Coombs eventually loaned Bianco Speciale to Jaguar engineers for reverse engineering, helping inspire the Lightweight E-type. In racing seasons that followed, Coombs raced both cars at key events, almost like a head-to-head test in public. While E-Types scored wins locally, the GTO's raw performance and sharp handling proved harder to beat on the biggest stages. Even after changing hands, the car stayed in race-ready condition, earning its Ferrari Classiche Red Book in 2008 and maintaining many original Coombs-era pieces. Now ready for its next chapter at Mecum Kissimmee 2026, this Ferrari 250 GTO is living history. The car even comes with a spare GTO-spec engine for vintage racing use, and keeps its original shoestring build quality where possible. When someone takes ownership of Bianco Speciale, they join the most elite car club on earth. This is a one-of-one masterpiece that never demanded restoration, because it was already perfect. View All Mecum Auction Inventory " width="680"> Source: Mecum Auctions

A black Ferrari 458 Speciale with gold wheels and racing stripes drives on a paved road surrounded by green trees, reminiscent of the sleek models seen at the Saratoga Motorcar Auction.

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 26, 2025

Saratoga Motorcar Auction Sets TWO Records for the Ferrar...

The Saratoga Automobile Museum's 9th Annual Saratoga Motorcar Auction proved that collector car values continue to rise in all categories, achieving more than $8 million in total sales and reaching a 70 percent sell-through rate across more than 250 cars and 120 memorabilia lots. The weekend was a success for the museum and the city of Saratoga Springs, NY, but for the collector market as a whole, it also marked key data for those tracking the trajectory of modern Ferraris and blue-chip classics. The headline result came on Day 2, when a 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale hammered at $808,500, setting a new auction world record for the model. For Ferrari collectors, the Speciale has and continues to steadily climb in desirability, thanks to its title as the last naturally aspirated V8 supercar produced in Maranello. While values of standard 458 Italias have risen, the Speciale continues to add to the trend, with showroom-grade examples bringing huge premiums. The Saratoga result supports that low-mileage, well-kept Speciales belong in the same investment conversation as any future classics with strong upside potential. 2015 Ferrari458 Speciale The auction also highlighted how well-chosen classics still find new heights. A beautifully restored 1974 Jaguar XKE sold for $156,750, another world record, proving that timeless design continues to attract attention in the auction room. The XKE's condition and provenance pushed this example into a new tier of value and collectability, showcased on Saratoga's stage for all to witness. Each sale fuels the mission of the Saratoga Automobile Museum, funding educational programs and exhibitions that preserve and share automotive history. But it's also becoming an event for collectors tracking market trends, offering insight into what's hot, what's down, and which cars might be ready for their breakout moment. With nine successful years completed and national recognition growing, the auction is a proving ground where record-setting exotics and restored classics can make their mark. 1974 Jaguar XKE Source: Saratoga Motorcar Auction

A red Ferrari F40, one of the ultimate '90s Icons, is parked indoors on a light floor with a black background.

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 19, 2025

Broad Arrow Brings ’90s Icons and Modern Hypercars to Its...

This will be an auction to remember. In the collector car world, certain hotbed destinations draw auction houses, collectors, and enthusiasts together to witness history as the most significant and valuable cars cross the block. Whether it's the prestigious charm of Pebble Beach and a pre-war Bentley, or the bright lights of Las Vegas and a multi-million dollar Bugatti Veyron, these auction meccas have earned their reputations with years of success. This year, the auction specialists at Broad Arrow Auctions are expanding their global reach with the upcoming inaugural debut of the Zoute Concours Auction in October. 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort (Credit – Courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions) The auction event aims to make a big statement as it will showcase seven coveted cars from The Aleggria Collection, featuring everything from hypercars owned by former F1 drivers to iconic 90s supercars you've seen on posters. Held on October 10, 2025, during the prestigious Zoute Grand Prix Car Week in Knokke-Heist, Belgium, the sale will bring together some of the rarest and most desirable cars ever created. With over 75 cars set to cross the block, including an impressive number offered without reserve, it's the kind of auction where buyers will be tuning in both in-person and virtually from around the world. 1992 Bugatti EB110 GT (Credit – Courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions) At the center of the action is The Aleggria Collection, a carefully curated group of seven remarkable supercars. Highlights include a Classiche-certified 1990 Ferrari F40 in desirable "non-cat, non-adjust" spec, a rare Graphite Metallic Porsche 959 Komfort, and a Bugatti EB110 GT with barely 8,000 kilometers from new. Joining these 90s legends are a McLaren 675LT Spider, Porsche 911 Speedster Heritage Design Package, and Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 S Roadster. Daniel Ricciardo’s Aston Martin Valkyrie (Credit – Rich Pearce/Courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions) Star lots include Daniel Ricciardo's personally commissioned Aston Martin Valkyrie, the futuristic Lamborghini Pregunta concept, and the one-off Transformers Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse. Motorsport fans will also be treated to legends like the Spa-winning BMW 3.0 CSL and a factory-backed Lancia Stratos HF. On the more classic side, a Ferrari 275 GTB/4 in rare Verde Pino, a patina-rich Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, and a Porsche Carrera GT in Seal Grey round out the blue-chip offerings. Between rarity and the sheer spectacle of these cars crossing the block, the Zoute Concours Auction is already a must-watch event on the international collector car calendar. Broad Arrow Auctions Inventory Source: Broad Arrow Auctions

A yellow and black Ferrari Daytona SP3, worth $26 million, is displayed on an outdoor platform at a car show, drawing the attention of billionaire car enthusiasts amid people and lights in the background.

By Charles Bradley – August 25, 2025

Revealed: The Enigmatic Billionaire Who Bought One-Off Fe...

One of the most coveted modern Ferraris ever built, which sold for $26 million during RM Sotheby’s Monterey Car Week sale to make it the most expensive contemporary car ever auctioned, was bought by a self-made American billionaire renowned for making shrewd investments and his generous philanthropy. His record-breaking bid will go to the Ferrari Foundation, funding education and rebuilding projects. The man behind the purchase? Herbert ‘Herbie’ Wertheim, whose life story reads like an American epic. Known to friends as “Dr. Herbie,” Wertheim – who always wears a bright-red fedora – is an optometrist, inventor, philanthropist, and investing legend estimated to be worth up to $5 billion, depending on his charitable donations. Part of Ferrari’s exclusive Icona Series, the Daytona SP3 was limited to 599 examples worldwide, but this one-off ‘Tailor Made’ commission stunned the automotive world – chassis ‘599+1,’ finished in a striking two-tone carbon-fiber and Giallo Modena livery. With delivery mileage and an unprecedented level of personalization, the car commanded a price higher than many seven-figure classics. From Troubled Youth to Visionary Inventor Born in Philadelphia at the end of the Great Depression, Wertheim ran away from home as a teenager, working odd jobs like picking oranges in Florida and even living with Seminole Indians in the Everglades. At 16, he stood before a judge on truancy charges and was given a choice: State reformatory or military service. He chose the U.S. Navy at 17, a decision that reshaped his life. While serving in naval aviation during the Cold War, Wertheim began investing. His first stock purchase, Lear Jet, came from his Navy stipend, and he went on to meet aviation pioneer Bill Lear in person. That early exposure to technology and industry ignited a lifelong passion. After the Navy, Wertheim studied physics and chemistry, worked as a NASA engineer at Cape Canaveral, and eventually earned a scholarship to study optometry. In 1969, he invented an eyeglass tint for plastic lenses that filtered harmful UV rays, helping prevent cataracts. By 1970, he founded Brain Power Inc. (BPI), which went on to hold more than 100 patents and copyrights in optical technology. A Billionaire Who Played the Long Game " width="680"> Unlike Silicon Valley moguls or Wall Street icons, Wertheim’s fortune didn’t come from a single IPO windfall. Instead, he built it patiently through decades of disciplined investing. He bought and held shares of companies like Apple, Microsoft, GE, Google, BP, and Bank of America long before they became household names, according to Forbes. His single greatest investment remains Heico, an aerospace parts manufacturer. Wertheim purchased a stake in 1992, worth about $5 million at the time. Today, his position exceeds $800 million, making him Heico’s largest individual shareholder. A Life of Luxury, Purpose, and Giving Wertheim’s portfolio afforded him an enviable lifestyle, and he has been described as one of the most successful individual investors of his generation. Yet his wealth is balanced by philanthropy. Having donated more than $100 million to Florida’s public universities, Wertheim also signed Bill Gates and Warren Buffett’s ‘Giving Pledge’, committing to donate at least half his fortune – most of it toward education. The Ferrari Collector’s Dream The purchase of the Ferrari Daytona SP3 ‘599+1’ is more than just a collector’s trophy for Wertheim. It represents the same vision that defined his investments: spotting timeless innovation and believing in the value of rarity and craftsmanship, and donating his wealth to education and rebuilding projects. Like his stock portfolio, the Ferrari is built on the principle that some creations – whether a transformative technology or a bespoke supercar – transcend market cycles. For collectors, it is yet another reminder that at Monterey Car Week, history isn’t just celebrated – it’s bought and driven home. View All Ferraris For Sale on duPont REGISTRY Images Source: RM Sotheby's, Ferrari

A bright yellow Lamborghini Miura is displayed indoors next to a silver sports car, with a red wall in the background—an iconic pairing reminiscent of the standout vehicles at the 2025 Monterey Mecum Auction: Top 10 Results And Highlights.

By Khris Bharath – August 23, 2025

2025 Monterey Mecum Auction: Top 10 Results And Highlights

If you caught our coverage on Thursday, you already know that Mecum’s Monterey 2025 auction brought some serious heat with six cars selling for over a million dollars, led by a Verde Miura that commanded $1.98 million. Since then, Mecum has now finalized more post-block deals, pushing the total to $45 million in overall sales across 500 classic vehicles, which also included 100 vintage motorcycles. Mecum also reported record attendance at its Monterey sale on the Peninsula this year, which is no small feat, given the week's packed schedule of competing auctions, whose results we have also compiled as part of our extensive coverage. There was plenty to see: alongside the aforementioned Verde Miura, Mercedes’ finest made their mark with a 1957 300SL Gullwing at $1.65 million and a 1959 300SL Roadster at $1.485 million. Stateside icons also broke the million-dollar barrier, including a 1932 Duesenberg Model J Dual Cowl Phaeton with LaGrande-style coachwork and Bobby Allison’s 1969 Dodge Daytona NASCAR, each going for $1.32 million. A trend that we saw across most auction houses at Monterey, modern collectibles also broke into the top 10 sales at Mecum this year, with a 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition with Gulf livery and only 377 miles, hitting $891,000. Ferrari’s hybrid flagship, the 2025 SF90 Spider, crossed the block for $715,000. Even track-bred specials like the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series Project One Edition and the 2024 Porsche 911 S/T brought in over $675,000, showing strong demand across eras and rounding up the top 10. Now, not every big Ferrari sale happened under the spotlight. Mecum closed three notable deals through its Bid Goes On department: 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spider, 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Touring Barchetta, and 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4. As previously mentioned, two-wheels were also part of the action as a 1910 Harley-Davidson 6-A Single brought $115,500, and a 1974 Kawasaki Z1A 900 set a world record for the brand at $82,500. While Mecum has long sold motorcycles, these results confirm bidders are now also increasingly chasing vintage bikes alongside blue-chip cars. Mecum also used Monterey to tease what might become the company’s biggest sale yet: the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO “Bianco Speciale” (chassis 3729GT), which we touched upon in the weeks leading up to Car Week. This is the only 250 GTO ever built in white. It was not on the docket but was on display to promote Mecum’s 2026 Kissimmee auction and a reminder that Mecum is positioning itself as a serious player far beyond American muscle. Beyond the auctions, at Pebble Beach, on Sunday, Dana and Patti Mecum’s 1939 Maybach SW38 Spohn Sport Zweisitzer won 1st in Class and even earned a Best in Show nomination. That recognition underscores Mecum’s place in the collector community, not just as an auction house but as a family with skin in the game. Mecum now turns its attention to Larry’s Legacy Auction in Chicago, where the entire Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum more than 275 vehicles, plus thousands of pieces of Road Art, will cross the block in September. View All Mecum Inventory 10. 2024 Porsche 911 S/T $676,500 9. 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Black Series P One Edition $682,000 8. 2025 Ferrari SF90 Spider $715,000 7. 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition $891,000 6. 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Lightweight $1,045,000 5. 1969 Dodge Hemi Daytona NASCAR $1,320,000 4. 1932 Duesenberg Model J Sweep Panel Dual Cowl Phaeton $1,320,000 3. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster $1,485,000 2. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing $1,650,000 1. 1969 Lamborghini Miura P400 S $1,980,000 Images Source: Mecum Auctions

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