Auctions

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

By Sponsored Article – April 16, 2026

Porsche Air|Water Auction 2026: 1998 Porsche 911 Turbo S WLS2

As Porsche began the transition of the iconic 911 from air-cooled to water-cooled with the 996 generation, the marque gave its celebrated 993 platform a final, fitting sendoff. Tasked with this mission, Porsche Exclusive developed the ultimate evolution of the air-cooled Turbo—the limited-production 911 Turbo S. Merging luxury with motorsport-grade performance, this flagship 911 was engineered to represent the pinnacle of air-cooled Turbo street car development, offering heightened power, exclusivity, and refinement in equal measure. Coming to market at the upcoming 25 April Porsche Air|Water Auction, Broad Arrow will be offering this 1998 Porsche 911 Turbo S WLS2. Offering impressive performance, dressed in a timeless silhouette, the Turbo S has become one of the most sought-after iterations of Porsche’s final air-cooled 911. Built in highly limited numbers at the end of 993 production, only 160 examples of the Rest of World (RoW) specification 911 Turbo S were produced by Porsche Exclusive. Each was powered by a 3.6-liter flat-six equipped with the 450-horsepower XLC option code performance kit—well known as Werks Leistungssteigerung 2 (WLS2). Along with the 1998 911 GT2, this was the most powerful road-legal air-cooled 911 ever offered. This prodigious power was achieved through a pair of larger turbochargers, a more efficient intercooler, an additional oil cooler, and a modified Bosch Motronic injection system. The result was sharper throttle response, stronger mid-range performance, and increased top-end capability—all without sacrificing reliability or drivability. Power was routed through a six-speed manual transmission with a limited-slip differential and Porsche's advanced all-wheel-drive system, first pioneered on the groundbreaking 959 supercar. GALLERY-EMBED Visually, the Turbo S distinguished itself with its aggressive Aerokit II front spoiler and rear wing, redesigned front air ducts with integrated fog lamps, and unique rear quarter-panel air intakes inspired by the 959. A four-pipe exhaust system—a subtle hallmark of special turbocharged Porsche engines—reinforced the car's serious performance intent, while exclusive badging inside and out underscored its rarity and status. Riding on distinctive 18-inch “Turbo Twist” light-alloy wheels finished in a special “metal gloss effect” by Cetelon—a wheel finish reserved solely for the Turbo S—the car concealed massive 12.6-inch cross-drilled and ventilated disc brakes with multi-piston Speed Yellow-finished Brembo brake calipers. Furthermore, the ride height for the 911 Turbo S was lowered 15 mm with unibody strut dome reinforcement and a carbon fiber/aluminum front strut brace for good measure! Capable of a run to 60 miles per hour in just over four seconds and a top speed approaching 185 miles per hour, the Turbo S delivered explosive performance. Yet, it remained remarkably refined, featuring full leather upholstery, premium amenities, and Porsche's hallmark build quality. Depending on the pilot, this final air-cooled Turbo could be as much of a grand tourer as it was a supercar, making it one of the most coveted 911s of its era. Ordered in the otherworldly color of Vesuvio Metallic, a shade known to shift from dark grey to a strong purple depending on lighting, this 911 Turbo S is indeed one of only 160 Rest of World examples fitted as standard with the 450-horsepower (XLC) WLS2 Power Kit. Unavailable in the United States when new, the WLS2-powered Turbo S offers a 20-horsepower increase over those offered in the U.S. Inside the Turbo S is awash in Black leather and carbon fiber with the racing-derived interior trim just beginning to appear in Porsche's road cars. Optional extras ordered when new included left and right sport seats with Z-Option embossed crests from the Exclusive department, Infrared security system, 92-liter fuel tank, and a Becker / Porsche CDR-21 CD-player headunit. So too was option code 617, better known as the Motorola 2200 in-car mobile telephone, which was de rigueur for executives of the day to stay in communication with their team after a long day at the office on the way home from work. The total with over 20.000 DM of options came to an impressive 264.000 DM original purchase price, or approximately $160,000. GALLERY-EMBED Finished in April 1998, the German-market example, one of just 50 produced for Porsche's home market, was sold to Gerd Wetzler through Ernst Islinger Porsche Zentrum in Mannheim Germany. Wetzler kept the specially ordered car until 2001 with 52,500 km recorded. It was then acquired by its second owner, also through Ernst Islinger, and registered in Milan, Italy. Over the next 21 years, the car was retained by this special individual, who moved to Switzerland, France, England, and then back to France, enjoying the car primarily on high-speed commutes on the Italian Autostrada and French Autoroutes. With each move, the collectible Turbo S followed like a member of the family. The impressive history file records each move, service, and inspection over these two decades, an irreplaceable trove of information that only the most devoted owners compile.In 2022 the car was acquired by the consignor who, by 2025, brought the car to the United States, one of the very few—if not only—Turbo S with the 450-horsepower WLS2 power increase located in the country. Under current ownership, this highly collectible Vesuvio Metallic example has received its Porsche Classic Technical Certificate at Porsche North Houston, confirming its matching numbers status. At the time of consignment, it features just over 112,000 original kilometers (approximately 69,613 miles) at cataloging and is furnished with its owner's manuals, service book, and impressive service history and ownership file. Crafted by Porsche Exclusive, the 911 Turbo S delivers exhilarating performance wrapped in a remarkably refined package. In true Porsche fashion, it was created to be perfectly suited for everyday driving yet capable of unleashing astonishing acceleration and handling when called upon. Over the past 25 years, this limited-production supercar has become arguably the most desirable iteration of Porsche's final air-cooled 911 Turbo. With its distinctive styling, formidable power, timeless 911 silhouette, and—in the case of this example—a rare WLS2 with 450 horsepower finished in the epic shade of Vesuvio Metallic, its collectability shows no signs of waning. For the Porsche purist, few 911 Turbos on offer today could be more documented and coveted. Mere steps away from the curated display of Porsches at the Air|Water event, Broad Arrow will bring to market this Porsche 911 Turbo S WLS2 along with over 50 additional examples and numerous pieces of authentic Porsche memorabilia at the 25 April sale in Costa Mesa, California. Explore the complete lineup and register to bid by visiting broadarrowauctions.com. View Listing

By Sponsored Article – April 15, 2026

Porsche Air|Water Auction 2026: 2016 Porsche 911 R

There are some cars so perfectly suited to the era in which they were created that they become representative of not just the ethos of the manufacturer, but of what is key to an entire generation of automobile enthusiasts. The Porsche 911 R of 2016 is one such car. Built in limited numbers, it was an immediate hit with both Porsche collectors and enthusiasts in general. So desired, in fact, that it ultimately normalized the idea of allocations and waitlists for those interested in purchasing the most desirable Porsche models. Offered in as-new condition, Broad Arrow’s 25 April Porsche Air|Water Auction presents the rare opportunity to acquire a highly desirable 2016 Porsche 911 R. This exceptional model pairs a wingless 911 silhouette with a GT3 RS–derived engine, delivering power through a six-speed “GT Sport” manual transmission. GALLERY-EMBED Delivered new in November 2016, this 911 R features an unbelievably low 192 miles at cataloging. No doubt inspired by the Communication Color livery in Porsche's marketing materials, 911 R limitation number 440 is finished in White—yet without the typical side and over-the-top stripes. It is an extremely subtle exterior appearance, one that appeals to those “in the know” and without the need to stand out. The interior is upholstered in Black leather with GT Silver stitching and front lightweight carbon bucket seats with houndstooth inserts. This well-optioned 911 R features front axle lift system, Extended Range Fuel Tank, Single-Mass Flywheel with Reinforced Clutch, and LED Headlights in Black with PDLS. On the inside, most notably, it was optioned with Air Conditioning, Sport Chrono Package, Extended Interior Package with Door Panel and Dashboard Trim in Leather, BOSE Surround Sound System, and Illuminated door-sill guards in Carbon Fiber. While the options list, as good as it is, creates the personalized spec of number 440, there is no denying that the 911 R, even in its most basic form, is one of the finest Porsche 911s of all time. All 911 Rs featured the 4.0-liter, 500-horsepower engine from the GT3 RS, a six-speed manual transmission developed specifically for the new model, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), carbon fiber body panels, titanium exhaust, and a magnesium roof panel. The new six-speed 'GT Sport' manual, with its closer ratios and shortened throws, created a connection between driver and car in a way no PDK-equipped Porsche could. Any magazine or YouTube channel that could get their hands on a press car raved about the sound, power, and pure driving experience that awaited those fortunate enough to sit behind the wheel. GALLERY-EMBED Its clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report reveals that 911 R number 440 has seen regular visits to Porsche North Scottsdale and later Porsche Chandler and most recently, in 2022, a recommended maintenance performed at Otto Werks in Scottsdale, Arizona, with 174 miles. Rare is the opportunity to acquire an era-defining supercar like the 911 R, let alone with the odometer showing just over delivery miles, yet 911 R number 440 has, in effect, leapt from the online configurator, allowing the future owner to turn the daydreams of 2016 into reality a decade later. This 911 R will be offered as part of the 50+ Porsche lineup set to cross the auction block this 25 April at Broad Arrow’s Porsche Air|Water Auction. Whether joining the action in person in Costa Mesa, California, or participating remotely via online or telephone bidding, interested parties are encouraged to explore the complete lineup and register to bid by visiting broadarrowauctions.com. View Listing

By Sponsored Article – April 14, 2026

Porsche Air|Water Auction 2026: 1990 Porsche 911 Coupe Reimagined by Singer

Founded in 2009 by Rob Dickinson, Singer Vehicle Design has redefined what it means to restore and reimagine the Porsche 911. Guided by Dickinson's philosophy that “Everything is important,” the Classic services for the Porsche 911 represent the purist vision of Singer's fusion of heritage and modern engineering. Each car begins as a 964-generation 911 before being meticulously disassembled and rebuilt in Los Angeles into a machine that echoes the iconic long-hood design of early 911s while delivering impressive contemporary performance. The “Lindsey Commission” will be offered—alongside other bespoke creations—at the upcoming Porsche Air|Water Auction this 25 April in beautiful Costa Mesa, California, as the official auction partner of the enthusiast-focused Air|Water event. Far more than a cosmetic transformation, Singer's Classic services benefit from ground-up reengineering. Lightweight carbon fiber bodywork, bespoke interiors, and a painstakingly refined chassis come together with a highly tuned, air-cooled flat-six engine. Producing up to 390 horsepower when specified with a 4.0-liter powerplant, these cars deliver thrilling performance alongside unmistakable character. GALLERY-EMBED Every Porsche 911 reimagined through Singer's Classic services is tailored for and named by its owner, with virtually limitless customization ensuring no two examples are alike. As noted by automotive journalist Chris Harris, these creations are “rooted in passion, obsession, and perfection”—a philosophy embodied in every detail of Singer's original services. First reimagined as the “Auburn Commission” in 2022, this subtle and elegant restoration in Light Ivory, a color from Singer's Specially Formulated Collection, perhaps belies the complexity of the build. Just over $300,000 in additional extras were added inside and out on top of the primary restoration cost. The heart of any Porsche 911 restored through Singer's Classic services is its naturally aspirated flat-six, and this example features the 4.0-liter powerplant with Big cams, fed by Champagne Velocity Stacks breathing through a Titanium Muffler System. Coupled with a rare all-wheel-drive drivetrain and a six-speed manual transmission, performance is both thrilling and deeply engaging. True to Singer's philosophy of prioritizing driving feel over outright figures, the car nevertheless accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, firmly within supercar territory. Additional top-shelf performance components include Brembo brake calipers with carbon ceramic rotors, a 2-Way Öhlins Sport Adjustable suspension with 'Normal Road' tune, and Michelin tires. GALLERY-EMBED The cockpit of this restored Porsche 911 was specified with Cumin leather from the Classic Leather Collection with its vertical panels and inserts featuring a bespoke suede-mix weave—a trim style pioneered by Singer—in Cumin, Chocolate, with Mt. Blanc stripes. Seats by Recaro come in the form of optional Wide carbon fiber track seats with seat backs painted in Light Ivory. The body color also covers the lower interior panels that include the rear seat environment, tunnels, and sills. A Porsche Classic Navigation Radio with Apple CarPlay, paired with an upgraded Audison amplifier, Dynaudio speakers and subwoofer, stands ready when the wail of the 4.0-liter gives way to a different kind of soundtrack. The fantastic list of options selected—three pages long, in fact—is recorded in complete detail and available for review upon request. After Reimagining, the car was delivered to its first owner in Alabama, where a majority of its miles were added. Before trading hands, the Auburn Commission also supported Singer's regional launch with Cornes Group in Japan, representing Classic services alongside other Porsche 911s reimagined through Singer's services. In 2025, the current owner and consignor glimpsed this restored Porsche 911 at an event in Las Vegas, later acquiring the car. It then became part of a growing trend of new owners who return their Reimagined 911 to Singer's Los Angeles facility to be further recommissioned in the style of their choosing. In the case of the Auburn Commission, subtle changes were made from the original specification that included Bespoke 'Dakar #2' exterior graphics and removal of the 'Reimagined' decklid script along with the replacement of the Singer decklid script. On the inside, the floor material was changed to floorboards painted in Light Ivory, and the Cream-colored tachometer face was replaced to match the four other Black gauges. With the recommissioning complete, the vehicle was renamed the Lindsey Commission as a tribute to the consignor's wife. Offered with only 1,499 miles since its original 2022 restoration, the Lindsey Commission is a beautifully executed and highly personalized example of Singer Vehicle Design's Classic services applied to the Porsche 911—combining restrained elegance with formidable performance. A rare opportunity to acquire a fully realized, recommissioned restoration with carefully considered specification; it stands as a compelling expression of the marque's philosophy: a timeless 911, perfected through obsessive attention to detail. To view more thrilling cars on offer at Broad Arrow’s Porsche Air|Water Auction, please visit their website at broadarrowauctions.com and be sure to register to bid in this exciting must-attend event. View Listing

By Khris Bharath – April 14, 2026

1-of-3: This Bugatti V12 Sedan Coming Up For Auction Features a Manual Transmission

Last week, we spotlighted the car that gave three-time F1 world champion Ayrton Senna his break in Formula 1, coming up for auction at RM Sotheby's Monaco sale on April 25th. That same sale will also see another historically rare and significant modern-day Bugatti cross the block. Now, when you think about Bugatti in the modern context, you think W16 from the Pïech era, fastest production car in the world, and hypercar royalty. Clearly, these were automobiles that realized their full potential. The Bugatti EB112 being offered in Monaco later this month clearly falls in the category that never saw its full potential. By the early 1990s, Bugatti had already reestablished itself with the Bugatti EB110, a quad-turbocharged machine producing over 600 horsepower. Yet the company’s ambitions extended well beyond two-door performance cars under the leadership of Romano Artioli. The EB112 represented a deliberate shift toward a high-performance luxury sedan capable of matching supercar dynamics. <- Gallery -> Engineers retained the advanced carbon fiber structure of the EB110 but reworked the layout entirely. The naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 moved to a front-mid position, sitting just behind the front axle. Power output reached 460 horsepower and 435 pound-feet of torque, delivered through all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. While V12 manuals are more prevalent among coupes, this is an extremely rare configuration in a four-door, four-seat format. Also, in the modern context, it is often believed that V12s are losing relevance, but in our listing this past weekend, we found 22 cars still in production with this storied 12-cylinder powerplant in 2026. As for performance, the EB112 could accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds and was projected to reach 186 mph, placing it firmly among the fastest four-door cars of its time. This was a sedan with exceptional balance and control, aided by its lightweight construction combining aluminum and carbon fiber. Design played an equally important role. Legendary Italian automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro shaped the EB112 with a clear connection to Bugatti’s heritage. The sloping fastback profile eliminated the traditional trunk, while the split rear window referenced the iconic Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic. Subtle detailing and the prominent horseshoe grille reinforced its identity, while the overall silhouette introduced a form that would later influence the development of modern four-door coupés. When the EB112 appeared at the Geneva Motor Show in 1993, it stood apart from everything else on display. The combination of a front-mounted V12, all-wheel drive, and a sculpted fastback body challenged established conventions in both design and engineering. Production never materialized. Bugatti Automobili in Campogalliano in Modena, Italy, ceased operations in 1995, leaving only three prototypes and partially completed chassis. Only one fully driveable car was completed by the factory before bankruptcy. Monégasque businessman, Gildo Pallanca Pastor, later acquired the remaining components and completed two examples, including the car now offered. It remained registered in Monaco and was driven sparingly, with just 241 miles recorded. Lot 151 currently carries a pre-auction estimate of €1.5 - €2.0 million EUR ($1.76-$2.34 million). While Bugatti explored other four-door concepts like the Galiber under Volkswagen Group ownership, none reached production. That leaves the EB112 as a singular outlier. A V12, manual, all-wheel-drive Bugatti sedan that combined advanced engineering with forward-looking design, and quietly shaped an entire segment without ever entering it. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Images: RM Sotheby's, Bugatti

By duPont REGISTRY – April 13, 2026

Porsche Air|Water Auction 2026: 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach Package

Broad Arrow Auctions, in partnership with Air|Water and Luftgekühlt, is excited to return to Costa Mesa, California, for the third annual all-Porsche Auction at the 2026 edition of Air|Water, the globally recognized Porsche enthusiast event. This must-attend auction will feature an elite selection of rare and standout examples from the renowned marque, including this Paint to Sample 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach Package. Following in the footsteps of the illustrious Carrera GT, the well-received Porsche 918 design study was first shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show with the highly exclusive model entering production for 2013. Competing directly with Ferrari and McLaren, these three titans of the supercar market developed their latest generation of hybrid-electric hypercars, prime for the 21st century. Unveiled all within the same calendar year for 2013, all three not only pushed the limits of performance but also did so as efficiently and sustainably as possible. Each offering a unique perspective on the optimal solution for harvesting and deploying hybrid energy, the 918 Spyder, LaFerrari, and P1 all helped lay the framework for hybrid-electric performance vehicles, variations of which are offered in their latest creations. GALLERY-EMBED Even if the performance facts and figures produced by the 918 Spyder are well known by now, they continue to astonish. A mid-engine 4.6-liter, dry sump V8 combined with two electric motors, one each driving front and rear wheels produces a total output of 887 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 944 lb-ft of torque in seventh gear. That power is transmitted through a lightning-fast dual-clutch, seven-speed PDK transmission leading to a 0 to 60 mph sprint in less than three seconds with a top speed of 211 mph. Naturally, Porsche took the 918 Spyder to the Nürburgring Nordschleife, quickly setting a new lap record of 6 minutes 57 seconds. Figures less known are the thousands of hours spent testing the 24 918 Spyder test mules and prototypes across the world with 120 hours needed to assemble the 918, with a typical 911 of the period taking approximately two days. Finished in Paint to Sample (PTS) Riviera Blue, a non-metallic hue described by Porsche as “vibrant shade of light blue inspired by the brilliant blue waters of the Italian and French Riviera coasts” the refreshing color is a perfect match for the Spyder's removable carbon fiber roof panels that encourage al fresco driving. Interestingly, while in high demand today few chose the $21,000 option in the 918 era. Deeper research into the model reveals that only four North American 918 Spyders feature the rare 1990s Riviera hue. Even fewer—just three—were equipped as this example is with the optional weight-saving $84,000 Weissach Package that helped shed 90 pounds through the use of titanium bolts, lighter brakes, and carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements, reducing the total weight to 3,616 pounds. Furthermore, this is the only example in PTS Riviera Blue selected with a Black interior with Silver piping. Offered with only 1,267 miles at the time of cataloging, this PTS 918 Spyder with Weissach Package is offered in excellent cosmetic condition with previous servicing at Porsche Downtown LA. Most recently in February 2026, Porsche Woodland Hills conducted a $43,000 Major Service with a new rear main seal at 1,266 miles that included fresh Michelin tires in addition to the recommended engine and mechanical work. It retains its manuals, indoor car cover, and charger in addition to a clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report. GALLERY-EMBED As one of the original “holy trinity” hypercars, the highly-collectible 918 Spyder arguably delivered the most accomplished and versatile of the ultra-exclusive trio. It is a technical tour de force-especially in Weissach Package trim, equally as capable of 30 mph all-electric urban travel as it was of 200 mile per hour Hot Lap track performance, it also represented a car of superior ergonomics, remarkable everyday practicality, and Porsche's expected build quality. For these reasons, and myriad others that include its rare Paint to Sample Riviera Blue finish and CXX Custom Tailoring, no serious Porsche or contemporary hypercar collection should be without, especially when a well-ordered and low-mile example such as this becomes available. Set to be offered within the enthusiast-focused atmosphere of Air|Water, this PTS 918 is joined by over 50 other examples from every era of the marque’s storied history. Both collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the complete lineup and register to bid by visiting broadarrowauctions.com. View Listing

By Sponsored Article – April 10, 2026

Carlisle Auctions' Spring Carlisle Collector Car Auction

Carlisle Auctions presents the Spring Carlisle Collector Car Auction, April 23–24 (10 AM daily) at the Carlisle, PA Expo Center. With 400+ consignments expected, discover high-end classics perfect for a white-glove, Best of Show car show experience, show-worthy gems suitable for everyday enjoyment, and a little bit of everything in between. These consignments span nearly 100 years of automotive history.Do you love trucks? Carlisle Auctions welcomes back its popular ALL-Truck Hour on Thursday, April 23 at approximately 3:30 PM. These are deals that truly accelerate! As a BONUS for 2026, buyers and sellers alike can benefit from a special duPont Registry/Carlisle Auctions partnership. Looking to sell? Consign with Carlisle Auctions using promo code DRCarlisleSell for a special consignment perk and personalized customer service. Carlisle Auctions is offering an exclusive incentive for first-time consignors:No “25 years or older” restriction under our industry-leading FREE UNLESS SOLD guaranteeMeanwhile, buyers can use promo code DRCarlisleBid for a FREE bidder’s pass (a $100 value) with financial qualifications. This pass is good for the buyer and a guest and offers reciprocal admission to the neighboring Spring Carlisle Collector Car Flea Market & Car Corral (April 22–26).Bid in person, online, or by phone and take home a car built to move. For details or to register, call 717-960-6400 or visit CarlisleAuctions.com. View Auction Details 1966 Mustang Shelby GT350-H View Listing 1969 Mustang Shelby GT350 View Listing 1970 Mustang BOSS 302 View Listing 1967 Mustang GTA Fastback View Listing 1938 Cadillac Lasalle View Listing 1984 Chevrolet K5 Blazer by K5 Squared View Listing

By Khris Bharath – April 08, 2026

Ayrton Senna’s First Formula 1 Car Heads to Auction in Monaco

We’re just over two weeks away from RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction scheduled for April 25th. Of the 77 lots comprising several historically significant automobiles and automobilia, one entry stands above the rest. Lot 150, the 1984 Toleman TG183B-05, the very car in which three-time Formula 1 World Champion Ayrton Senna made his Grand Prix debut on March 25, 1984. Widely considered as one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, while most enthusiasts and fans are well aware of his iconic championship-winning McLaren-Honda MP4/4, it was the TG183B-05 where it all began for the Brazilian driver during Formula 1’s turbocharged era. <- Gallery -> Carrying a pre-auction estimate of €2.8 million and €3.8 million ($3.27 million to $4.44 million), chassis 05 represents the origin point of a glorious career. Senna arrived in Formula 1 at 23 after a dominant British Formula 3 campaign, signing with Toleman when top teams could not immediately offer him a seat. The TG183B, designed by Rory Byrne and John Gentry, defined by its front wing-mounted radiator and twin rear wings, served as a stopgap while the newer TG184 was under development, yet it quickly became the platform that introduced Senna’s precision to the world stage. At the 1984 Brazilian Grand Prix in Rio de Janeiro, Senna qualified 16th, edging his teammate in identical machinery. A turbocharger failure ended his race early, but the next rounds told a different story. At Kyalami, he drove to sixth place, securing his first World Championship point against competitors running superior Michelin and Goodyear tires. In Belgium, he fought back from 19th on the grid to finish seventh, later classified sixth, reinforcing his rapid adaptation to Formula 1. The car’s competition life ended at Imola before the arrival of the TG184. It remained with the Enstone team before moving to the United States in 1992, later returning to the United Kingdom and joining its current ownership in 2017. Today, it remains exceptionally well preserved, retaining original elements including its gear lever and even a misspelled “Aryton” marking within the cockpit. Its recent appearances add further weight. Former British F1 driver/commentator Martin Brundle drove it at Brands Hatch, stating, “I can see why Ayrton made it go so quickly. It really feels quite together.” In 2024, to mark 40 years since Senna's maiden race, Pierre Gasly, now driving for BWT Alpine F1, took the wheel at Silverstone, calling it “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will never forget. Very, very special.” Featuring period-correct livery and powered by a 1.5-liter Hart 415T turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a rebuilt transmission, the car remains fully operational and eligible for historic Formula 1 events, including the Monaco Historic Grand Prix. This chassis marks the exact point where Senna’s trajectory began. Few cars can claim that level of significance, and fewer still survive in this condition. View Listing Images: RM Sotheby's

By Khris Bharath – April 04, 2026

Most Expensive Cars Sold At Auction

In the world of collector cars, the auction block has become a dramatic stage where automotive legends change hands for astounding sums. No longer confined to showroom floors, private collections, and museums, vintage and collector cars now surface at both private and public auctions. Given how collector cars have become an alternative investment asset class that can generate substantial returns for investors, they ignite serious bidding wars at auction with sale prices into the tens and even hundreds of millions. These cars are under the spotlight every time they hit the stage at a classic car auction. From Pebble Beach to the Monterey Car Week and Amelia Island to Paris, these high-stakes events have become headline generators showcasing the rarest examples of exquisite design, engineering excellence, and racing history. For wealthy collectors and institutions alike, owning such a vehicle is so much more than a matter of prestige, as these cars represent a piece of automotive history and elite lineage that includes names like Rudolf Uhlenhaut, Enzo Ferrari, and Peter Collins. Be it a Ferrari with Scuderia heritage or a Mercedes-Benz W 196R Stromlinienwagen driven by motorsport veterans like Sir Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio, every car to feature in this list has a story to tell. Speaking of motorsport, ever since the dawn of the automobile in the late 19th century, racing has been a form of advertisement for automakers. It has been a proving ground and a way to showcase performance, durability, and innovation. Victories on the racetrack translated to credibility on the road. Competition pedigree continues to dominate the upper reaches of the market, although Ferrari’s $40 million Luce charity result introduced an unprecedented modern outlier. Most of these machines have rightfully earned their stripes at races like Daytona, Mille Miglia, Nürburgring, Le Mans, Sebring, and the Targa Florio. So with that, here’s a look at what makes these cars some of the most highly sought-after automobiles on the planet. 10. 1957 Ferrari 335 S: $35,730,510 Auction Date: February 15, 2016 | Auctioneer: Artcurial Key player in Ferrari winning the WSC 1957 World Constructors' Title One of the last Ferraris that saw action in high-speed road racing in Italy Used as a reference in the film ‘Ferrari’ by Michael Mann When the hammer fell at Artcurial’s Retromobile sale in Paris, back in 2016, the 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport: chassis 0674 had just fetched $35.7 million. Driven by the likes of racing legends like Peter Collins at Sebring, Wolfgang Von Trips, who was able to secure a second-place finish in the Mille Miglia, and Mike Hawthorn at Le Mans, the Ferrari 335 Sport enjoys a rich racing history. It also secured a second win at the 1958 Cuban Grand Prix, with Stirling Moss and Masten Gregory at the wheel. This was also where Fangio was famously kidnapped. The car initially featured a 3.8-liter V12 that was later uprated to 4.1 liters for serious endurance duty. Despite the Ferrari 335 Sport’s connection to the tragic 1957 Mille Miglia accident involving Alfonso De Portago in the sister car, the car’s second-place finish and ownership history that includes a wealthy collector like Pierre Bardinon make it a highly desirable asset. Its auction premium and sale price demonstrate how valuable period-correct race cars with Ferrari’s racing pedigree can be. 1957 Ferrari 335 S specs Engine Displacement 245 cu in (4,023 cc) Engine Configuration V12 Horsepower 390 hp @ 7,400 rpm Torque - Weight 1,940 lbs Transmission 4-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 186 mph Serial Number (s/n) 0674 9. 1964 Ferrari 250 LM By Scaglietti: $36,344,960 Auction Date: February 5, 2025 | Auctioneer: RM Sotheby’s The only privateer-entered Ferrari to win at Le Mans Only Enzo-era Ferrari race car to compete in record six 24-hour races (3 Le Mans | 3 Daytona) The overall winner at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans More recently, in February 2025, a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM, chassis: 5893, crossed the auction block at RM Sotheby’s in Paris, selling for $36.4 million. While not the brand’s first endurance race icon, the 250 LM was a pivotal sports car for Ferrari in the mid-engine V12 format. This particular example, like countless other Ferraris on this list, also boasts an extensive racing history, famously winning the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans under a renowned privateer, Luigi Chinetti’s North American Racing Team (NART). Piloted by the likes of famous drivers like Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt, this car is one of 32 made and still retains the original engine. While most 250 LMs are now with private owners or in museums, making their appearance at classic car auctions rare, this particular example was offered by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum after 54 years. It is a significant development in recent times. As a car that represents Ferrari’s golden age and the only privateer-entered Ferrari to win at Le Mans, it highlights its unique status in the collector car world. 1964 Ferrari 250 LM By Scaglietti specs Engine Displacement 201 cu in (3,286 cc) Engine Configuration V12 Horsepower 315 hp @ 7,500 rpm Torque 231 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Weight 1,808 lbs Transmission 5-speed manual Drivetrain Layout Mid-engine, RWD Top Speed 180 mph Serial Number (s/n) 5893 8. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta: $38,115,000 Auction Date: August 14, 2014 | Auctioneer: Bonhams The world's longest-held Ferrari 250 GTO (49 years) Previously part of the prestigious Maranello Rosso Collection Participated in more races than any other 250 GTO Moving on to the first of three Ferrari 250 GTOs to feature on this list. Over a decade ago, back in 2014, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, chassis: 3851GT, became the most valuable car when it sold at a public auction for over $38.11 million, at Bonhams’ Quail Lodge Auction. Delivered new to French driver Jo Schlesser, the car saw extensive action in period racing history, which is well documented. It achieved a second-place finish at the 1962 Tour de France, 12 class victories, and 14 hill-climb races entered in 1963. Subsequently, the car was sold to private collector Fabrizio Violati in 1965. Given its achievements, auctioneer Bonhams highlighted it as an outstanding example to be offered at a public auction. While events like the annual Goodwood Revival and Pebble Beach Concours often showcase similar models, few have come close to matching this particular 250 GTO’s authenticity and racing history. However, this car’s record sale figure would eventually be surpassed by two more prancing horses in 2018 and 2023, respectively. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta By Scaglietti specs Engine Displacement 180 cu in (2,953 cc) Engine Configuration V12 Horsepower 296 hp @ 7,500 rpm Torque 217 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Weight 1,940 lbs Transmission 5-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 174 mph Serial Number (s/n) 3851GT 7. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta: $38,500,000 Auction Date: January 2026 | Auctioneer: Mecum Auctions One-of-one example finished in Bianco Speciale from factory Right-hand-drive example delivered new to British racing team owner John Coombs Driven in period by Roy Salvadori, Graham Hill, and Mike Parkes At Mecum’s Kissimmee 2026 sale, chassis #3729GT, a right-hand-drive example finished in Bianco Speciale, sold for $38.5 million. The winning bid came from renowned California-based Ferrari collector David Lee, who secured the car via live video call, adding a one-off specification to a collection otherwise dominated by traditional Rosso Corsa examples. What sets #3729GT apart is its factory specification. Finished in a pearlescent white, it remains the only 250 GTO delivered new in Bianco Speciale, a deliberate departure from Ferrari’s traditional palette. On track, it proved just as capable, securing podium finishes at Brands Hatch and Goodwood while contributing to Ferrari’s continued dominance in GT racing. Its performance and engineering were studied closely by rivals, including Jaguar during the development of the Lightweight E-Type. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta specs Engine Displacement 180 cu in (2,953 cc) Engine Configuration V12 Horsepower 296 hp @ 7,500 rpm Torque 217 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Weight 1,940 lbs Transmission 5-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 174 mph Serial Number (s/n) 3729GT 6. 2026 Ferrari Luce ‘Tailor Made’: $40,000,000 Auction Date: August 2026 | Auctioneer: RM Sotheby’s Most expensive new car ever sold at auction Chassis 0, the first production example of Ferrari’s Luce program Offered exclusively for charity, with Buyer’s Premium waived Ferrari delivered one of the most unconventional results ever to enter the upper reaches of the auction record books when the 2026 Ferrari Luce ‘Tailor Made,’ Chassis 0, sold for $40,000,000 at RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction. The result surpassed the previous benchmark for a new car at auction, set by a $26 million Ferrari Daytona SP3 Tailor Made at the same venue in 2025. The Luce was offered as a charity lot, with Buyer’s Premium waived and all proceeds directed to The Ferrari Foundation. Carrying a published estimate threshold of more than $1.1 million, the final result was over 36 times that figure. As the first production chassis of Ferrari’s Luce program and a one-off Tailor Made commission, the car represented an unusual combination of exclusivity, personalization, philanthropy, and access to a historically significant first example. Its structure makes the transaction difficult to compare directly with conventional collector-car sales, but the result nevertheless established a new benchmark for what a new automobile can achieve at public auction. 2026 Ferrari Luce ‘Tailor Made’ specs Engine Displacement N/A Engine Configuration Four Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Electric Motors Horsepower 1,035 hp Torque 730 lb-ft Weight 4,982 lbs Transmission Single-Speed Drivetrain Layout Quad-motor AWD Top Speed 193 mph Serial Number (s/n) ZFF21BUA8T0338000 5. 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe: $42,905,000 Auction Date: August 2026 | Auctioneer: Gooding Christie's View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gooding Christie’s (@goodingandcompany) Most expensive American car ever sold at auction Most valuable Shelby ever sold at auction Only Cobra Daytona Coupe personally owned by Carroll Shelby Monterey Car Week 2026 produced one of the most significant American collector-car results ever recorded when a 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, chassis CSX2300, sold for $42,905,000 at Gooding Christie’s Pebble Beach Auctions. The result surpassed the previous American-car auction record of $22 million, set by the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ at the same venue in 2018, and also became the highest price ever achieved by an automobile at Gooding Christie’s. One of only six Cobra Daytona Coupes built, CSX2300 was developed as part of Shelby American’s effort to challenge Ferrari’s 250 GTO in international GT racing. This example played a significant role in the 1965 FIA GT Championship season and later continued competing beyond Shelby American’s factory program. It is also the only Daytona Coupe personally owned by Carroll Shelby, who retained the car from 1975 to 1998. Its combination of rarity, competition history, and direct Shelby provenance pushed American racing machinery into a valuation tier traditionally dominated by Europe’s most important competition cars. 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe specs Engine Displacement 289 cu in (4,727 cc) Engine Configuration V8 Horsepower 385 hp @ 6,500 rpm Torque 340 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm Weight 2,300 lbs Transmission 4-Speed Borg-Warner T-10 Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 190 mph Serial Number (s/n) CSX2300 4. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO By Scaglietti: $48,405,000 Auction Date: August 26, 2018 | Auctioneer: RM Sotheby's Third of only 36 Ferrari GTOs ever built 1 of 4 upgraded by Scaglietti, and 1 of 7 with the more aggressive coachwork More than 15 class and overall wins between 1962-1965 The classic car auction at RM Sotheby’s during Monterey Car Week in August 2018 saw a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, chassis 3413, go under the hammer for $48.4 million. Originally a Series I model, this GTO was upgraded by Carrozzeria Scaglietti to Series II specifications. It is one of just four cars to feature this upgrade in this period, contributing to its unique status among collector cars. With the likes of Edoardo Lualdi-Gabardi’s massive success in the 1962 Italian GT championship, this particular example boasts a significant racing career. Its impressive racing pedigree also extends to the fact that it played a crucial role in Ferrari’s 1964 Championship victory for GT manufacturers, thanks to its class win at the Targa Florio. Preserved by wealthy collectors, this GTO with its original chassis and a lineage of respected private collectors. The high sale price is a reflection of its historical importance, and it remains a favourite at prestigious classic car events like Pebble Beach. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO By Scaglietti specs Engine Displacement 180 cu in (2,953 cc) Engine Configuration V12 Horsepower 296 hp @ 7,500 rpm Torque 217 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Weight 1,940 lbs Transmission 5-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 174 mph Serial Number (s/n) 3413GT 3. 1962 Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO By Scaglietti: $51,705,000 Auction Date: November 13, 2023 | Auctioneer: RM Sotheby's The only 1962 GTO Tipo, raced by Scuderia Ferrari Previously owned by the Chairman of the Ferrari Club of America, Fred Leydorf Multiple awards to its name: Cavallino Classic, Pebble Beach, Amelia Island Now, onto the most expensive Ferrari on this list. In late 2023, this 1962 Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO, chassis: 3765 LM, fetched an impressive $51.7 million at auction. The car represents a significant high point in Scuderia Ferrari’s racing history, having been driven by the likes of Mike Parkes and Lorenzo Bandini. Specifically built to compete in the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans, it was the only GTO raced by Ferrari’s factory team. The car’s debut at the 1000 km Nürburgring was historic, as it secured a class win and second place overall. While it qualified well at Le Mans, it eventually retired due to overheating. The car would eventually be converted to standard GTO specifications, and chassis 3765 saw multiple class victories in Italian races and finished second in the 1965 Sicilian Hillclimb Championship. After passing through several prominent private collectors, this 250 GTO remained a single-ownership Ferrari with an Ohio-based collector for 38 years. Since then, the car has been restored and is often displayed at prestigious events like Pebble Beach and Amelia Island. Its unique road race legacy and connection to Enzo Ferrari’s factory team have cemented its status as a highly collectible automobile. 1962 Ferrari 330 LM / 250 GTO specs Engine Displacement 242 cu in (3,967 cc) Engine Configuration V12 Horsepower 390 hp @ 7,500 rpm Torque 217 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm Weight 1,940 lbs Transmission 5-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 174 mph Serial Number (s/n) 3765LM 2. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen: $53,917,370 Auction Date: February 1, 2025 | Auctioneer: RM Sotheby's The most expensive F1 car sold at auction Only 4 examples feature Stromlinienwagen (Streamliner) bodywork Driven by Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss in 1954, 1955 While Ferrari has dominated the top spots for some of the most expensive cars sold at auction for decades, historic racing models from the Mercedes-Benz brand have started to steal the show, selling for record-breaking sums of money. One such car is the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen, chassis: 00009/54, which sold for $53.9 million. This remarkable auction price made it the most expensive Formula 1 car to ever sell at auction. Driven by racing legends like Fangio and Moss, these cars dominated Grand Prix racing in the mid-1950s. Of the 14 chassis built, only four featured the streamlined Stromlinienwagen coachwork was made from Elektron magnesium alloy, weighing just 88 pounds. The car was designed for high-speed circuits like Monza and Riems. It famously won the Buenos Aires Grand Prix in 1955, with Fangio at the wheel. A creation of Mercedes' chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, along with racing manager Alfred Neubauer, most surviving Stromlinienwagen models have been in museum collections, including this example seen here, which comes from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. The car’s re-emergence and subsequent private ownership mark a significant shift in the collector car world, and this auction sale has firmly established its place as one of the most noteworthy and expensive auction sales for historically important racing cars to date. 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen specs Engine Displacement 183 cu in (2,496 cc) Engine Configuration Inline-8 Horsepower 290 hp @ 8,500 rpm Torque 210 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm Weight ~1,545 lbs Transmission 5-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 186 mph Serial Number (s/n) 00009/54 1. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe: $143,000,000 Auction Date: May 5, 2022 | Auctioneer: RM Sotheby's 1 of 2 prototypes ever built It was famously Uhlenhaut's daily driver Based on the championship-winning Mercedes Grand Prix car driven by Fangio Moving on to the car that takes the top spot on our list, which broke all previous records back in 2022. When the hammer finally fell at a special auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut coupe sold for a nine-figure auction price, surpassing the previous record back then by a staggering $90 million. The final price, $143 million, instantly made it the most valuable car sold at auction. Often referred to as the ‘Mona Lisa of Cars’, the 300 SLR is named after chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Based on the Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Grand Prix car driven by veteran racer Fangio, this car was one of only two prototypes ever built and was never intended for sale. Photo by: Dr. Mahesh Kumar Neelala Anand It was designed to close the gap between racing pedigree and road cars. The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut featured a magnesium alloy body and the iconic gullwing doors, which became synonymous with the 300 SL road car. The lightweight body and the 3.0-liter straight eight engine were capable of 180 mph, making it one of the fastest cars in the world at the time. The car’s tremendous auction price reflects its significance in automotive history, and the proceeds from the auction will benefit education and research. While Mercedes-Benz will continue to display the remaining 300 SLR at its museum, the new owner has also promised to occasionally display this example. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut specs Engine Displacement 182 cu in (2,982 cc) Engine Configuration Inline-8 Horsepower 310 hp @ 7,400 rpm Torque 229 lb-ft @ 5,950 rpm Weight 1,984 lbs Transmission 5-Speed Manual Drivetrain Layout Front-engine, RWD Top Speed 180 mph Serial Number (s/n) 196.110-00008/55 Sources: RM Sotheby's, Bonhams, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz FAQs 1. What is the most expensive car sold at an auction?A. The most expensive car ever sold at auction is the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, which fetched $143 million in a private sale conducted by RM Sotheby’s at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart in May 2022. 2. What was the most expensive car sold at Mecum auction 2025? A. The top sale at the Mecum Kissimmee 2025 auction was a 1966 Ford GT40 MkI Road Car (P/1034), which fetched $7,040,000. This particular GT40 was the first of 31 Mk I road cars sold to individual buyers. 3. What was the most expensive car sold at the Barrett Jackson auction? A. The highest-priced car ever sold at a Barrett-Jackson auction is the 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake, which achieved a sale price of $5.5 million in 2021. One of only two ever built, this rare vehicle is renowned for its exceptional performance and unique history. 4. Who owns the most expensive car in the world?A. The identity of the buyer of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, sold for around $143 million, has not been publicly disclosed. The sale was conducted privately, and the new owner has chosen to remain anonymous. 5. Is there a car worth 1 billion dollars?A. No car today is valued at $1 billion. The most expensive new car, the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail at $28.2 million, is nowhere close to a billion dollars.6. What is the most expensive new car ever sold at auction?A. The 2026 Ferrari Luce Tailor Made, Chassis 0, sold for $40 million at RM Sotheby’s Monterey in August 2026. The charity lot was sold with Buyer’s Premium waived, with all proceeds benefiting The Ferrari Foundation.

By Khris Bharath – April 02, 2026

Jack McAfee’s Iconic 1957 Porsche 550A Spyder Heads to Monaco Auction

A factory-built Porsche race car with documented wins across America returns to the spotlight this April, as one of the most complete and meticulously restored 550A Spyders heads to Monaco later this month. Consigned through RM Sotheby’s with a pre-auction estimate of $4.0 million to $4.4 million, chassis 550A-0116 was delivered new to driving ace Jack McAfee’s dealership in Burbank, California, on March 4, 1957. Already an established SCCA competitor with experience campaigning Ferraris for John Edgar, McAfee quickly recognized the balance and agility of Porsche’s lightweight Spyder platform. The car made its competitive debut on June 15, 1957, at Paramount Ranch, where McAfee secured a second-place finish in a preliminary heat before taking two race wins the following day. That early success set the tone. By late July, the 550A claimed victory at Pomona and soon became a dominant presence in SCCA competition, with wins at Palm Springs, Riverside, Laguna Seca, Phoenix, and Altamont. Over the following seasons, it amassed more than 25 race wins between 1957 and 1962. The 550A represented a major step forward for Porsche, replacing the earlier ladder chassis with a lightweight spaceframe, improving rigidity and handling. Production was limited to just 40 units, and this particular example, completed on February 18, 1957, retains its matching-numbers gearbox, along with its original engine case. Ownership history remains fully documented from new. After its early success under McAfee and Stan Sugarman, the car passed through a sequence of dedicated enthusiasts and racers across California before moving internationally to South Africa, Japan, and Germany. In 1993, it underwent a comprehensive overhaul by Freisinger Motorsport, Germany, returning it to a period-correct configuration while incorporating a 1959 aerodynamic nose. Its most recent chapter reflects an uncompromising approach to preservation. In 2019, the car entered a comprehensive six-year restoration under UK-based Porsche specialist Andy Prill, where invoices amounted to over $400k. Over 1,000 labor hours, focused on returning every system to factory specification. Suspension, brakes, and electrical components were rebuilt to original tolerances. <- Gallery -> The aluminum body, known for fatigue due to its magnesium content, received careful structural attention while retaining key original sections. The engine was reassembled using a factory-exchange crankcase sourced from Italy, while the original matching case accompanies the sale. Another detail worth highlighting is that following early race damage, McAfee requested a modification that allowed the rear bodywork to hinge upward, mirroring the earlier 550 Spyder design. The feature remains intact today, and during restoration planning, the decision was made to preserve it, recognizing its relevance to the car’s competition history. Shown at the 2014 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, where it earned Best in Class for post-war competition cars, this Spyder is now presented in what Prill describes as “box-fresh” condition. Accompanied by its Type 550A Driver’s Manual, period photographs, and race documentation, this example offers both historical continuity and mechanical integrity. It crosses the block as Lot 165 at the Monaco Auction on April 25, positioned as one of the most complete surviving 550A Spyders. View Listing Images: RM Sotheby's

By Khris Bharath – March 26, 2026

RM Sotheby's Magnus Walker 'Outlaw Collection' Auction: Top 10 Sales and Highlights

British-born and now Los Angeles-based, Magnus Walker built his reputation for turning air-cooled 911s into deeply personal machines that favor history and individuality over factory perfection. His warehouse in the downtown Arts District in L.A. reflects that mindset, filled with cars, parts, and memorabilia collected over decades. At RM Sotheby’s, “The Outlaw Collection” brought together 16 cars from a broader 160-lot sale that spanned nearly five decades of Porsche history. From early short wheelbase 911s to turbocharged icons and front engine transaxle cars from the 1980s and 1990s, the lineup mirrored Walker’s own journey through the brand. The collection achieved about $1,760,000 in total sales for automobiles, outperforming its pre-sale estimate range of $1,250,000 to $1,590,000, including seven cars that sold for over six figures. Overall sales surpassed $2,000,000. To evaluate those results, data from the duPont REGISTRY Garage app and the duPont REGISTRY Index (dRi) provide a useful benchmark. dRi is built entirely on real transaction data. From that dataset, three figures are established: a low value, a high value, and a median. That median becomes the dRi market value. Several cars in Walker’s collection exceeded those benchmarks. A 1967 Porsche 911 S led the group at $308,000, exceeding its pre-auction estimate between $150,000-$200,000. Close behind, a 1965 Porsche 911 hit $225,500, matched exactly by a 1976 911 Carrera 2.7 MFI at the same figure, which also did the same. Early long-hood cars continue to command serious attention, especially when tied to a figure like Walker, whose personal builds have shaped how enthusiasts view air-cooled 911s today. Then there is the spread, more specifically, 996s. A 2004 Porsche 911 GT3 closed at $159,500, while a 2002 911 GT2 followed at $148,500. Both represent a different era, the first to see water-cooling, sharper, more clinical. Looking at some models from the Translaxle era, Walker’s 1980 924 Turbo sold for $14,850. A 1979 928 changed hands at $14,300. Even a 1987 944 found a new owner at $9,900. These are accessible entry points, and are part of the same narrative, front-engine Porsches that Walker has long championed, often against conventional wisdom. Some of the most interesting results sit in the middle. The 1980 924 Turbo ‘Holbert Racing’ Widebody achieved $77,000, far above typical expectations for the model. That premium reflects rarity and story, not just specification. The 1974 911 Carrera ‘Flat-Nose’ Widebody Conversion brought in $50,600, showing continued appetite for period-style customization, especially when it aligns with Walker’s aesthetic. In the end, this was not a sale driven by a single hero car, but an underlying philosophy that combines passion, period-correct motorsport cues, and personal expression, which is all about preserving patina rather than restoring it. 10. 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera 'Flat-Nose' Widebody Conversion $50,600 9. 1968 Porsche 911 Urban Outlaw Starter Kit $66,000 8. 1980 Porsche 924 Turbo ‘Holbert Racing’ Widebody $77,000 7. 2002 Porsche 911 GT2 $148,500 6. 2004 Porsche 911 GT3 $159,500 5. 1966 Porsche 911 $192,500 4. 1976 Porsche 911 Turbo $203,500 3. 1976 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 MFI $225,500 2. 1965 Porsche 911 $225,500 1. 1967 Porsche 911 S $308,000 View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Images: RM Sotheby's

Auctions

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe