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 Charles Bradley – February 18, 2026

Broad Arrow Named Official Auction Partner of The Quail for Monterey Car Week 2026

As Monterey Car Week continues to evolve into the most important week on the global collector-car calendar, one of its most anticipated events has just gained a powerful new partner. Broad Arrow, driven by Hagerty, has been named the official auction partner of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, setting the stage for a new chapter in high-end automotive sales during the industry’s most prestigious gathering. Beginning in 2026, Broad Arrow will host a two-day auction at The Quail Golf Club in Carmel Valley, California, on August 13 and 14, aligning its gavel with the 23rd edition of The Quail. The move marks a significant milestone for the rapidly growing auction house, which, after four successful years at the Monterey Jet Center, is stepping into what many consider a crown jewel of Monterey Car Week. Broad Arrow replaces Bonhams|Cars at The Quail, which previously announced a multi-year agreement with WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for its relocated auction to take place on August 13, coinciding with the Pre-Reunion race weekend that launches Monterey Car Week. The 2026 Broad Arrow Quail Auction is expected to feature approximately 175 highly sought-after collector cars spanning pre- and post-war classics, motorsport icons, rare supercars, and emerging modern collectibles. For seasoned collectors and first-time bidders alike, the curated offering promises blue-chip provenance, concours-ready condition, and the kind of exclusivity that defines the upper tier of the luxury car market. “It’s an absolute honor for Broad Arrow to announce this exceptional partnership with The Quail,” says Kenneth Ahn, President of Broad Arrow. “The partnership represents a collaboration between two best-in-class organizations focused on exceptional hospitality, celebration of automobiles, and a shared vision for the future of the hobby.” The Quail has long distinguished itself from traditional concours events by fusing automotive excellence with elevated lifestyle experiences. More than a static car show, it is a garden-party celebration of design, performance, and hospitality. The 2026 event will include more than a dozen vehicle debuts from top OEMs and designers, alongside a curated display of hundreds of rare and significant automobiles. Four celebrated classes will headline the lawn: the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, The Lamborghini Diablo, The Legacy of Japanese GTs, and The Ferrari F40. Together, they represent a sweeping narrative of automotive culture—from American road-trip mythology to poster-car supercar excess and the ascendance of Japanese performance engineering. Beyond the concours field, The Quail is equally defined by its atmosphere. Guests can expect world-class cuisine, themed gourmet food pavilions, exceptional libations, a special-guest Fireside Chat series, and live entertainment, all delivered with The Peninsula’s renowned hospitality. The addition of an official auction platform further enhances that immersive, luxury-forward experience – allowing collectors not only to admire automotive icons but to acquire them. “We held our first-ever auction four years ago at the Monterey Jet Center in August 2022. Spending our company’s formative years at such a dynamic location alongside the thrill of Motorlux was an exceptional experience. As we continued our rapid growth, it became clear we were outgrowing the space,” added Ahn. “The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, is considered by many to be the highlight of Monterey Car Week. Since its founding in 2003, The Quail has evolved from a small enthusiast meet into one of the most influential luxury car events in the world. Broad Arrow has also quickly evolved from a start-up in 2021 to one of the top players in the industry, and we very much look forward to seeing how this new partnership will elevate the experience for driving enthusiasts and collectors during the world-renowned Monterey Car Week.” Founded in 2021 by a team of seasoned industry veterans, the company helped clients buy, sell, and finance more than $624 million in total transaction value across Auctions, Private Sales, and Capital in 2025 – representing 97 percent growth over its 2024 total of $316 million. That same year, Broad Arrow Auctions achieved $257 million in sales across eight live auctions, including three debut European sales in Italy, Belgium, and Switzerland. “We’re thrilled to welcome Broad Arrow as our official auction partner in 2026,” said Kai Lermen, Senior Vice President of Peninsula Signature Events. “Broad Arrow’s experienced team, premium car selections, and strategic growth align perfectly with the continued evolution of our events. We look forward to bringing world-class auctions to our patrons for years to come.” Broad Arrow will also remain highly integrated with Motorlux, driven by Hagerty, the signature kickoff celebration of Monterey Car Week, taking place on Wednesday, August 12. Hosted at the Monterey Jet Center, Motorlux will once again feature Michelin-starred cuisine, 100-point wines, and a curated display of world-class automobiles and aircraft. Broad Arrow representatives will preview select auction and private-sale offerings and assist clients interested in registering to bid at The Quail. All Motorlux guests will continue to receive complimentary auction access. As Monterey Car Week grows ever more global – and ever more luxurious – the alignment between Broad Arrow and The Quail signals a new era for high-end automotive auctions in Carmel Valley. For consignors seeking record-setting results and collectors pursuing the rarest cars in the world, the 2026 Broad Arrow Quail Auction is poised to become one of the most compelling stages in the collector-car market. View All Broad Arrow Inventory Photos courtesy of The Quail & Broad Arrow

By Khris Bharath – February 15, 2026

2026 Cavallino Palm Beach Auction: Top 10 Results and Highlights

Against the backdrop of the 2026 Miami Concours Weekend, Cars on 5th and Cavallino Classic’s 35th anniversary celebration that saw over 300 rare Ferraris in attendance, RM Sotheby’s returned to Palm Beach on Saturday, February 14, with an evening auction dedicated exclusively to a docket comprising of a selection of Classiche-certified Ferraris, blending formal elegance with decisive bidding inside The Boca Raton’s newly reimagined setting. The energy inside the ballroom reflected the broader enthusiasm surrounding Cavallino itself, a brand that, since 1978, has positioned itself as one of the most authoritative voices in the Ferrari world. Live commentary from duPont REGISTRY accompanied the bidding, adding historical context and valuation insights. Momentum was visible even before the headline cars crossed the block. A first edition copy of 275 by Bacchelli & Villa (Lot 100), limited to just 1,200 copies, achieved $19,200, with all proceeds going to charity. The headline automotive sale was a 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari (Lot 113), which achieved $5,230,000. More than a decade after its debut, Ferrari’s first hybrid halo car continues to anchor the modern segment. One of just 499 examples made, with direct lineage from the Enzo, and its position as the bridge between analog hypercars and Ferrari’s electrified future, besides being part of the 'Big Six', keeps demand firm. Second overall was a 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast Series I by Pininfarina (Lot 112) at $1,545,000. Originally conceived for royalty and heads of state, the Superfast represents one of the most exclusive front-engine V12 grand tourers of the 1960s. Close behind, a 1955 Ferrari 250 Europa GT Coupe by Pinin Farina (Lot 110) followed at $1,462,500. Early 250 series cars continue to act as gateways into Ferrari’s Colombo V12 heritage, offering period elegance and long-term collectability without entering the stratospheric GTO tier seen last month. Modern limited-production Ferraris showed consistent strength, as seen in much of January's mega-auction results. A 2009 Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M (Lot 107) realized $1,105,000. A 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale (Lot 111) achieved $885,000, further validating the final naturally aspirated mid-engine V8 as a modern benchmark. Mid-range transactions highlighted stability across analog and early modern Ferraris. A 1999 Ferrari F355 Spider (Lot 115) brought $373,500, and a 2018 Ferrari 488 GTB 70th Anniversary edition (Lot 109) sold for $368,000. A 2001 Ferrari 550 Maranello (Lot 105) achieved $329,500, continuing the steady appreciation curve for front-engine V12 grand tourers from the gated manual era. The final car rounding out the top 10 was a 1988 Ferrari 328 GTS (Lot 106), which realized $179,200, demonstrating enduring liquidity for classic V8 Ferraris. One of the more nuanced placements was the 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona NART Spider by Michelotti at $654,000 (Lot 114). While distinct from factory-built NART Spiders, its result highlights ongoing enthusiasm for Daytona derivatives and open-air V12 experiences. Automobilia added further dimension to the evening’s totals. A Ferrari 488 engine coffee table (Lot 102) achieved $60,000. A 2000 Ferrari F1-2000 1:5 scale model sold for $26,400 (Lot 101), a signed 1995 Gerhard Berger Ferrari race helmet (Lot 103) realized $28,800, while a signed 2019 Charles Leclerc helmet brought $44,400 (Lot 104). Even Enzo Ferrari’s bespoke two-piece suit and dress shoes (Lot 116) reached $54,000, highlighting how deeply provenance resonates within the Cavallino audience. Overall, out of the 17 Lots offered, all but one, a 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 by Scaglietti, managed to sell, resulting in a 90% sell through rate for automobiles (94.1% overall) at $12,131,700 and $232,800 for memorabilia, strong numbers for a Ferrari-only boutique sale. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cavallino Classic (@cavallinoclassic) Cavallino Classic has evolved from a Palm Beach concours founded in 1992 into a global platform with editions in Modena, Abu Dhabi, and now Monaco, following its acquisition by Canossa, part of duPont REGISTRY Group. That international expansion, paired with the event’s long-standing emphasis on authenticity and historical integrity, reinforces why the Cavallino sale carries weight beyond a single evening’s results. 10. 1988 Ferrari 328 GTS $179,200 9. 2001 Ferrari 550 Maranello $329,500 8. 2018 Ferrari 488 GTB 70th Anniversary $368,000 7. 1999 Ferrari F355 Spider $373,500 6. 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona NART Spider by Michelotti $654,000 5. 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale $885,000 4. 2009 Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M $1,105,000 3. 1955 Ferrari 250 Europa GT Coupe by Pinin Farina $1,462,500 2. 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast Series I by Pininfarina $1,545,000 1. 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari $5,230,000 Images: RM Sotheby's, Cavallino Classic

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 10, 2026

dR LIVE Surpasses $34.9M In Sales

If you’ve been following the collector car market, you’ve seen one of the hottest starts to the year in automotive auction sales. Success usually centers on specific cars or trends driving the market, but 2026 is spreading the spotlight across a surprisingly diverse range of eras and categories. Leading the way in digital auctions, dR LIVE recently celebrated the launch of its online platform, reporting $34,987,553 in total sales, promoting a 100% sell-through rate, and a 14-day return policy. Cars Over $1 Millon 2023 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport 'Jaune Molsheim' - Sold for $4,012,050 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau - Sold for $1,103,550 1997 Porsche 911 Carrera Speedster by Gunther Werks - Sold for $1,048,950 2017 Ferrari F12tdf - Currently Live (In excess of $1 million) From a one-off Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport (sold for $4,012,050) to a Bon Jovi-owned 1968 Ford Mustang GT500 Eleanor (sold for $195,300), it's the transparency, variety, and overall quality that attracts collectors with a love for all things automotive. Over 106 vehicles have virtually crossed the block on dR LIVE and found new homes with owners around the country, confirming its commitment to delivering a 100% sell-through rate to sellers. And amongst those 100+ digital car auctions, four stand out as cars over $1 million, while four broke digital auction world records. Keep up with the collector car market all the upcoming inventory on dR LIVE by clicking the link below. Discover dR LIVE Record Breaking Sales 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau 1-of-39 X85 Flat-Nose Sold for $1,103,550 The 964 Turbo S X85 Flachbau (Flatnose) sits at the absolute summit of Porsche’s early 1990s road car hierarchy. Developed through Porsche Exclusive and heavily influenced by motorsport programs refined in collaboration with Andial, the Turbo S was never intended to be a volume model. Instead, it was a statement car, combining the most powerful iteration of the 964 Turbo’s 3.6-liter single-turbo flat-six with dramatic coachwork inspired by the legendary 935 racers of the 1980s. 2016 Porsche 911 R Only 101-Miles, 1-of-991 Sold for $729,750 This particular example ONLY has 101 miles on the clock at the time of documenting and has been tastefully specified with factory options amounting to ~$26,600. It remains completely original and unmodified, retaining its factory White paint with red 911 R side stripes, LED PDLS headlights, and 20-inch GT3 center-locking wheels. The interior is finished in Black leather with houndstooth cloth seat inserts, GT Silver deviated stitching, and the extended leather package, capturing the understated motorsport aesthetic that defines this model. Equipment includes Sport Chrono, carbon door sills, the light design package, and the extended-range fuel tank. 2009 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640-4 Only 303 Original Miles Sold for $686,700 duPont REGISTRY Live was proud to showcase an exceptionally low-mileage example of one of Lamborghini’s most dramatic modern V12 flagships, a 2009 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640-4, showing ONLY 303 original miles from new, which makes it the lowest mileage Murciélago on offer, not just across the nation, but likely worldwide. Finished in Balloon White over Nero Perseus leather, this Murciélago represents the final, fully evolved form of the Raging Bull brand’s original Audi-era design language, paired with E-Gear automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Offered with a clean history, recent service, and full accompanying documentation, this is a time-capsule Murciélago preserved at reference-grade condition for serious collectors. 1992 Porsche 911 Turbo S2 Andial 1-of-20, U.S. Homologation Car Sold for $426,301 This exceptionally rare and historically significant air-cooled Porsche, a 1992 Porsche 911 Turbo S2, is one of just 20 Andial-built homologation cars produced for North America. Of those, only 18 were U.S.-market examples. Showing 36,243 miles, finished in Grand Prix White over Cashmere leather, and retaining original paint and panels, this example represents the ultimate evolution of the 964 Turbo platform.

By Charles Bradley – February 05, 2026

Bonhams|Cars Makes Laguna Seca Move For Monterey Car Week Sale

Image courtesy of Bonhams|Cars For nearly three decades, Bonhams|Cars has been a defining presence during Monterey Car Week, anchoring the collector-car calendar with a sale that consistently draws the world’s most serious enthusiasts. Now, the auction house is entering a new era: Bonhams|Cars has signed a multi-year agreement with WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, extending a 15-year partnership and officially relocating its Monterey Car Week sale to one of the most storied circuits in motorsports history. Beginning in August 2026, the Bonhams|Cars Monterey Car Week sale will become an integral part of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, one of the most prestigious events on the global historic racing calendar. The auction will take place on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, with public preview days held Aug. 11–12, coinciding with the Pre-Reunion race weekend that launches Monterey Car Week. The move marks the first new venue for the Bonhams|Cars Monterey auction in 29 years, following its long-standing association with The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, in Carmel Valley. More significantly, it brings the worlds of elite collecting and historic competition closer than ever, offering a setting where provenance, performance, and pageantry intersect naturally. The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, named Motorsports Event of the Year at the 2025 International Historic Motoring Awards, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most respected historic racing events. Beyond its cultural significance, it delivers substantial economic impact to the Monterey Peninsula and draws a global audience of collectors, drivers, manufacturers, and tastemakers. Bonhams|Cars’ relocation to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca places the auction directly within that atmosphere. Collectors will have the rare opportunity not only to acquire historically significant automobiles but also to experience them in motion at the legendary circuit – an increasingly important consideration for today’s enthusiast, who values experiential luxury as much as ownership. “I’m delighted to confirm the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as the new home for the Bonhams|Cars sale in Monterey Car Week,” said Whitney Maxwell, Global Managing Director at Bonhams|Cars. “Monterey is one of our flagship global sales in the calendar and the location of the auction is hugely important. WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is an outstanding venue that has seen significant investment in recent years and gives us almost limitless space to grow and develop our sales as the quality and volume of cars we consign for our Monterey Car Week sale develops.” That sense of growth is central to the move. Laguna Seca’s expansive grounds and recent infrastructure investments allow Bonhams|Cars to scale its Monterey presence while maintaining the exclusivity expected at the top of the collector-car market. The partnership also builds upon Bonhams|Cars’ longstanding involvement with the Reunion, which dates back to 2011 and already includes support for the Drivers Lounge and other premium trackside activations. “We are thrilled to welcome Bonhams|Cars as our official auction partner during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion,” said Mel Harder, President and General Manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. “Bonhams|Cars’ unparalleled heritage in the collector car market enhances the experience for our fans and participants, bringing world-class auctions to the iconic setting of Laguna Seca. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to celebrating automotive history and delivering exceptional experiences during one of the most anticipated weeks of the year – both here on the Monterey Peninsula and among automotive enthusiasts around the world.” For Bonhams|Cars, the move reinforces its position as a global authority in the collector-car space. The auction house hosts 17 live auctions annually, participates in all major concours worldwide, and operates across live, online, and private-sale platforms. Its presence spans marquee events such as Goodwood, the Zoute Grand Prix, and the Formula 1 Paddock Club™, where Bonhams|Cars serves as the official auction partner. As Monterey Car Week continues to evolve, the integration of Bonhams|Cars within the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion reflects a broader shift in luxury collecting – one that values authenticity, access, and experience as much as rarity. At Laguna Seca, the sound of historic engines, the gravity of motorsport history, and the theater of the auction block will now unfold in one unified setting, signaling a bold new chapter for one of the most important weeks in the automotive world.

By duPont REGISTRY – February 06, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Group & Pininfarina Unveil Exclusive Award to Honor ‘Best of the Best’ at U.S. Exotic and Luxury Car Shows

duPont REGISTRY Group (DRG), the trailblazer in the luxury and exotic automotive ecosystem, proudly announces the launch of its exclusive duPont REGISTRY Award, a trophy designed by legendary Italian design house Pininfarina. This prestigious accolade will be presented to the standout vehicles deemed the “Best of the Best” across exotic and luxury car shows throughout the United States. Considerations for the award started at the recently held Cars on Fifth event in Naples, and will continue at the renowned Miami Concours on February 13-15. Additionally, upcoming cars will become eligible for the 2026 duPont REGISTRY Award across marquee events from duPont REGISTRY Group’s portfolio of top-tier collector car gatherings nationwide. Experts will nominate their finest exemplars of design, innovation, and craftsmanship, with the ultimate winner selected by a panel of automotive connoisseurs and duPont REGISTRY editors. The winner of the duPont REGISTRY Award will receive an exclusive feature story in duPont REGISTRY magazine and online, reaching its wide audience of high-net-worth enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. This dedicated story will highlight both the vehicle’s design heritage, technical innovation, and the story behind its current custodian – offering unparalleled editorial prestige and exposure. The centerpiece of this initiative is the award itself – a sculptural masterpiece born from the hands of Pininfarina, embodying the perfect blend of Italian elegance and American luxury. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the duPont REGISTRY Award represents not only automotive achievement but also the artistry and passion that define the collector-car world. “The duPont REGISTRY Award is more than a trophy – it is a tribute to the passion, culture, and craftsmanship that unite true car lovers. For Pininfarina, designing it was a way to celebrate extraordinary automobiles and, above all, the passion behind these masterpieces” said Paolo Trevisan, SVP Design of Pininfarina. Michael Chapin, President of duPont REGISTRY, added: “The duPont REGISTRY Award represents the pinnacle of luxury and exotic automotive excellence. Commissioning Pininfarina to design the trophy was intentional – this is an honor meant to carry weight, artistry, and legacy. It celebrates the vehicles and collectors who set the standard for what ‘best of the best’ truly means.” About duPont REGISTRY Group The heart of the Driven Lifestyle division, the duPont REGISTRY Group is the world’s leading luxury ecosystem, encapsulating the culture, community and commerce of the high-end automotive lifestyle. Built by some of the biggest names in the luxury automotive space, duPont REGISTRY Group represents a vibrant community of members worldwide nurtured over four decades. Its portfolio includes duPont Registry, Canossa Events, Cavallino, Supercar Owners Circle, Petrolicious, Retromobile New York, Cars on Fifth, Miami Concours, FerrariChat and Sotheby’s Motorsport. About Pininfarina A global icon of Italian style, Pininfarina is recognized for its unparalleled ability to create timeless beauty through its values of elegance, purity, and innovation. Founded in 1930, Pininfarina has evolved from an artisan concern to an international service Group, supreme expression of automotive styling and an established reality in industrial and experience design, architecture, nautical and mobility beyond automotive. A group employing 500 people, offices in Italy, Germany, China, and the United States and listed on the Stock Exchange since 1986. Over the course of nine decades Pininfarina has designed more than 1450 automotive and mobility projects and more than 750 product and architecture projects, receiving more than 90 international design awards in the past 10 years.

By Khris Bharath – February 01, 2026

Rétromobile 2026 Auctions: Top 10 Results and Highlights

With Salon Rétromobile 2026 week firmly behind us, the results across four major auction houses and their respective Paris Sales provide insights into the collector car market and where interest lies at the moment. While there is a growing appetite for more modern metal, as highlighted in our 2025 market report, classic and vintage cars continue to dominate the top sales, with several model-specific records that were broken last week. While Artcurial and Bonhams continued to lean on older models, both RM Sotheby’s and Gooding Christie’s had some top-tier modern cars in their dockets. We touched on the top auction cars to watch through the week, and the results are in. Held at The Peninsula hotel on Jan 27th, Artcurial’s showstopper car at its Automobile Legends sale, was the 1992 Ferrari F92A Formula 1 car (Lot 25), driven by Jean Alesi, that sold for €2.94 million ($3.45 million) but the strongest result came from an unrestored 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing (Lot 33), sourced from a long-dormant Paris collection, that sold for more than €4.4 million ($5.4 million). The sale reinforced the value placed on originality at a time when restoration costs continue to rise. The headline sale of the week came from RM Sotheby’s flagship European auction the following day on January 28th, where a 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider (Lot 140) sold for just over €14 million ($16.7 million), with a 2004 Ferrari Enzo (Lot 193) going for €8.1 ($9.63 million), continuing the momentum that we saw at Mecum, just a few weeks ago. Another record sale was a 1997 Ferrari F50 that achieved €7.6 million ($9.04 million), the second-highest sale ever recorded for the model. A 1956 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Berlinetta (Lot 166), sold post-auction at €12 million ($14.27 million). RM Sotheby's achieved its highest-ever grossing European sale at €81 million ($96.31 million). On 29th January, Gooding Christie’s held its first auction in the EU, and results highlighted a growing interest in cars designed to be used, not just displayed. Competition and track-only Ferraris featured prominently, led by a 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO (Lot 67) that sold at €9.1 million ($11.1 million), a new high for the model, and a 2018 FXX K Evo (Lot 40) close to €7 million ($8.5 million), a record sale for this track-only variant. Total sales at Gooding & Christie's totaled €50.4 million ($59.9 million). Bonhams Cars’ Sale on 30th January, held at the Polo de Paris, operated at a lower price ceiling but showed steady liquidity. Its top lot, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gull Wing (Lot 136), sold for just under €1.3 million ($1.6 million), reflecting continued confidence in the market below the headline tier. The runner-up sale was the 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500K (Lot 129) that crossed the block for €862,500 ($1.02 million). Total sales at Bonhams add up to €88 million, $21.4 million. Looking at the top 10 results, Ferrari accounts for seven of the ten highest-value transactions across the four major auction houses, with models ranging from mid-century classics to modern halo models, track-only cars (Ferrari Evo FXX K, Evo FXX), highlighting the prancing horse’s continued dominance across multiple eras. We had the Ferrari 288 GTO appear not once, but twice. The remaining three in the top 10 were a 2024 Bugatti Bolide, €3,998,750 ($4,754,756), which is also a track-only model, a pre-war 1938 Talbot-La T150-C-SS that went for €6,755,000 ($8,032,104), and a 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV at €3,380,000 ($4,019,024), rounding out the top 10. Looking across the top 10 leading cars sold during the week across each of the four auction houses, broader patterns emerge. Ferrari made nearly 40 percent of the group by volume. In fact, just at RM Sotheby’s, you had eight cars from Maranello in the top 10. Mercedes-Benz serves as the second most dominant marque, with the 300 SL being the most popular. We recently also did a deep dive on how the Gullwing became a blue-chip Benz. Taken together, Rétromobile 2026 served up a spectacular showing, opening up the European auction circuit in style, and we’ll have to wait to see if this momentum and these trends continue across other major auction events as the year unfolds. 10. 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV - Gooding Christie's €3,380,000 ($4,019,024) 9. 2024 Bugatti Bolide - RM Sotheby’s €3,998,750 ($4,754,756) 8. 2008 Ferrari Evo - Gooding Christie's €4,448,750 ($5,289,833) 7. 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO - RM Sotheby’s €5,855,000 ($6,961,950) 6. 1938 Talbot-La T150-C-SS - Gooding Christie's €6,755,000 ($8,032,104) 5. 2018 Ferrari FXX K Evo - Gooding Christie's €6,980,000 ($8,299,643) 4. 1997 Ferrari F50 - RM Sotheby’s €7,598,750 ($9,035,374) 3. 2004 Ferrari Enzo - RM Sotheby’s €8,105,000 ($9,637,336) 2. 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO - Gooding Christie's €9,117,500 ($10,841,260) 1. 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California - RM Sotheby’s €14,067,500 ($16,727,110) View Cars For Sale On duPont REGISTRY Images: RM Sotheby's, Gooding Christie's

Top Collector Cars Auctions to watch at Salon Rétromobile Paris 2026

By Khris Bharath –

Top Collector Cars to watch at Salon Rétromobile Paris 2026

The 2026 global collector car calendar is well underway. In the United States, the year effectively opened with Mecum’s landmark sale of the Ferrari 250 GTO Bianco Speciale at Mecum, Kissimmee, followed by a landmark Barrett-Jackson sale in Arizona that brought $195.2 million. A clear reminder that demand at the very top remains intact. Rétromobile now marks the beginning of the European auction circuit with four major auction houses. At its 50th anniversary, the Paris sales provide an early look at how that momentum translates across the Atlantic. With Artcurial’s on-site auction already concluded, where Jean Alesi’s 1992 Ferrari F92A F1 Grand Prix car (Lot 25) was the leading lot, attention turns to three houses shaping the week: RM Sotheby’s (January 28), Gooding Christie’s, and Bonhams Cars. By volume, the commitment is substantial with Gooding Christie’s offering 86 lots, Bonhams Cars follows with 95, and RM Sotheby’s leads slightly at 97. In total, nearly 280 automobiles are yet to cross the block in Paris. Here are the top 10 upcoming sales from each of the aforementioned auction houses by estimated values. RM Sotheby's January 28th RM Sotheby’s top three offerings alone span nearly fifty years of Ferrari history. A 1956 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Berlinetta Tour de France by Scaglietti (Lot 166) leads the group with a pre-auction estimate in excess of €13 million (~$14.2 million). Close behind sits a 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider (Lot 140) at €12 to €14 million ($13.1 to $15.3 million). Rounding out the trio is a 1997 Ferrari F310 B Formula One car (Lot 136), driven by seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher, estimated at €5.5 to €7.5 million ($6.0 to $8.2 million). 1. 1956 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Berlinetta 'Tour de France' by Scaglietti (Lot 166) €13,000,000+ 2. 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti (Lot 140) €12,000,000 - €14,000,000 3. 1997 Ferrari F310 B (Lot 136) €5,500,000 - €7,500,000 4. 1997 Ferrari F50 (Lot 194) €5,500,000 - €6,500,000 5. 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO (Lot 192) €4,500,000 - €5,500,000 6. 2024 Bugatti Bolide (Lot 171) €4,000,000 - €6,000,000 7. 2004 Ferrari Enzo (Lot 193) €3,800,000 - €4,200,000 8. 1967 Ferrari Dino 206 S (Lot 191) €3,800,000 - €4,200,000 9. 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV (Lot 150) €3,300,000 - €3,600,000 10. 2017 Ferrari 488 GTE (Lot 195) €2,800,000 - €4,000,000 View Catalog Gooding Christie's January 29th Gooding Christie’s leads with a Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta (Lot 61) at €8.0 to €9.0 million ($8.7 to $9.8 million), followed by a Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupé (Lot 35), estimated at €6.5 to €7.5 million ($7.1 to $8.2 million). Completing the top three is a Ferrari 288 GTO (Lot 67), offered without reserve and estimated at €6.0 to €7.0 million ($7.1 to $8.3 million). 1. 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta (Lot 61) €8,000,000 - €9,000,000 2. 1938 Tablot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupe (Lot 35) €6,500,000 - €7,500,000 3. 1984 Ferrari 288 GTO (Lot 67) €6,000,000 - €7,000,000 4. 1958 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider (Lot 31) €5,500,000 - €6,500,000 5. 2018 Ferrari FXX K EVO (Lot 40) €5,500,000 - €6,500,000 6. 2008 Ferrari FXX EVO (Lot 41) €4,500,000 - €5,500,000 7. 1920 Ballot 3/8 LC Grand Prix Two-Seater (Lot 65) €3,500,000 - €6,000,000 8. 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV (Lot 19) €3,250,000 - €3,750,000 9. 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Series I Coupe Aerodinamico (Lot 52) €2,750,000 - €3,250,000 10. 2021 Ferrari Monza SP1 (Lot 73) €2,500,000 - €3,000,000 View Catalog Bonhams Cars January 30th Bonhams Cars top offerings include a 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500K Coupé (Lot 127) estimated at €1.5 to €2.5 million ($1.6 to $2.7 million), a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing (Lot 136) at €1.2 to €1.5 million ($1.3 to $1.6 million), and a 2022 Ford GT Carbon Series (Lot 117) at €580,000 to €7,00,000 ($6,94,000 -$837,821). 1. 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500K (Type W29) Coupé (Lot 127) €1,500,000 - €2,500,000 2. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL 'Gullwing' Coupé (Lot 136) €1,200,000 - €1,500,000 3. 2022 Ford GT Carbon Series Coupé (Lot 117) €580,000 - €700,000 4. 1981 BMW M1 Coupé (Lot 142) €450,000 - €500,000 5. 1938 Mercedes-Benz 320N Cabriolet (Lot 145) €400,000 - €450,000 6. 1993 Porsche 911 Type 964 Turbo 3.6 (Lot 146) €400,000 - €450,000 7. 1952 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Sports Sperimentale Series IV (Lot 133) €400,000 - €450,000 8. 2006 Spyker C8 Spyder (Lot 152) €350,000 - €400,000 9. 1962 Aston Martin DB4 'SS Engine' Series V Sports Saloon (Lot 140) €350,000 - €450,000 10. 1953 Chrysler 'Thomas Special' Coupé (Lot 150) €330,000 - €390,000 View Catalog Images: Artcurial, RM Sotheby's, Gooding Christie's, Bonhams Cars Taken together, the leading consignments at Rétromobile 2026 point to a market that is broadening, as Blue-chip pre-war classics, near-modern icons, and competition history now coexist comfortably at the top, something that we reinforced in our recent 2025 Collector Car Insights. It is clear that relevance, narrative, and long-term significance now share equal weight as the European circuit gets underway. View Cars For Sale On duPont REGISTRY Images: Artcurial, RM Sotheby's, Gooding Christie's, Bonhams Cars

duPont REGISTRY Live Records Another Landmark Sale: 1-of-39 Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau Hits $1.1 Million

By Khris Bharath – January 21, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Live Records Another Landmark Sale as a 1-of-39 Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau Hits $1.1 Million

Just days after duPont REGISTRY Live, the new auctions platform from duPont REGISTRY Group crossed into seven-figure territory with the sale of the 1-of-60 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Jaune Mosheim, the platform delivered yet another defining million-dollar moment, with the sale of a 1994 Porsche 911 Turbo S Flachbau. After 99 bids (40 on the final day), the auction closed at $1,103,550, including buyer's premium. This particular example is one of just 39 U.S. market X85 flat-nose coupes ever built, reinforcing the platform’s growing momentum and continuing to actively work with consignors to offer some of the most sought-after automobiles in the collector car world. On the 964 generation, the Turbo S sits at the top of Porsche’s performance car hierarchy, developed through Porsche Exclusive and shaped by motorsport expertise refined alongside Andial. It was conceived as a statement rather than a production model, pairing the most potent version of the 964 Turbo’s powertrain with bespoke coachwork inspired directly by Porsche’s dominant 935 race cars. Power comes from the M64/50S 3.6-liter air-cooled flat-six, which puts out 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, delivered to the rear wheels through a G50 five-speed manual gearbox. In period, this combination placed the Turbo S among the fastest road-going Porsches money could buy, delivering sharper response and a more visceral character than the standard 964 Turbo. What defines this particular example is the X85 Flachbau package, where Porsche replaced the traditional 911 nose with a hand-built slant-nose design featuring pop-up headlights, massive cooling intakes, Turbo S-specific side vents, and the unmistakable whale tail rear spoiler. What resulted was one of the most dramatic factory 911 transformations and one that is becoming increasingly desirable in Porsche circles for its rarity. To give you some context about that rarity, of the 76 total Flachbau Turbo S models built across X83, X84, and X85 specifications, just 39 were U.S. market X85 coupes. <- Gallery -> The specification elevates this Guards Red example, which includes Factory Porsche Exclusive options such as carbon fiber dash trim, power-adjustable bucket seats, a center console with a period car phone, distinctive stitching, and bespoke interior appointments. Each was effectively hand-assembled, making no two cars exactly alike and placing this model well above later Turbos in terms of rarity and craftsmanship. As values of air-cooled Porsches continue to climb and separate the exceptional from the merely desirable, the 964 Turbo S Flachbau sits firmly at the very top, as demonstrated with this sale and validated by duPont REGISTRY Garage App’s dRi predicted value. Several top-tier exotics have already sold on duPont REGISTRY Live, which offers a 14-day return policy and a 100% sell-through rate, giving you confidence before you place a bid. We currently have several exciting cars, including not one, but two celebrity-owned automobiles, that are set to close soon, along with plenty more coming before the end of the month. So, head on over to duPont REGISTRY Live and place your bids. View Listings Images: duPont REGISTRY

By Khris Bharath – January 19, 2026

$4 Million Milestone: duPont REGISTRY Live Records Its First Seven-Figure Auction Sale

duPont REGISTRY Live, the new auctions platform from duPont REGISTRY Group, has officially crossed a major milestone. Our team is incredibly proud to announce that in just two months since the Platform launched, in mid-November last year, we have closed our very first sale to cross the million-dollar mark, a 2023 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport. The highest bid reached $3,821,000, and after two weeks and 70+ bids, the final transaction price, including the buyer’s premium, settled at $4,012,050. That figure landed within striking distance of the duPont REGISTRY Garage App’s dRi predicted value of $4.06 million at the time of listing, validating both the car and the market. duPont REGISTRY Index is a high-end vehicle valuation and market-tracking tool focused exclusively on the luxury, exotic, and collector car space – often described as the Kelley Blue Book for six- and seven-figure automobiles. Finished in the historically significant Jaune Molsheim spec, this Chiron Pur Sport is one of just 60 made, which makes it even more exclusive with the Chiron’s overall limited production run of 500 units. The Nocturne paint with Giallo Midas accents over a Beluga Black interior directly references founder Ettore Bugatti’s own yellow-and-black personal car, tying in this exquisite modern-hypercar with the French marque's rich historical provenance. We’ve extensively touched on this track-focused W16-powered Chiron Pur Sport that packs 1,500 horsepower and 218 mph top speed, but what sets this particular example apart is its exhaustive list of factory options, adding up to $234k. The Sky View Roof ($62k) and the Giallo Tarus Pur Sport Interior Package ($60k) on their own amount to over half that figure. Other highlights include exposed carbon fiber throughout, with carbon lower body parts, carbon fiber door panels, carbon fiber interior trim, and carbon fiber rear wing. <- Gallery -> It is worth noting that we previously came close to a seven-figure sale in December with a 964 Porsche 911 Targa reimagined by Singer, but this Chiron Pur Sport, which is coincidentally also the first hypercar that we’ve listed, finally made it happen and is a landmark moment for the platform. Several top-tier exotics have already sold on duPont REGISTRY Live, which offers a 14-day return policy and a 100% sell-through rate, giving you confidence before you place a bid. We currently have several exciting cars, including not one, but two celebrity-owned automobiles, that are set to close soon, along with plenty more coming before the end of the month. So, head on over to duPont REGISTRY Live and get your bids in. View Listings Images: duPont REGISTRY, Bugatti

By Khris Bharath – January 15, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Live: Last Chance to Bid on 1-of-60 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Jaune Molsheim

Our team is ecstatic and eagerly awaiting a landmark moment with great anticipation, because in just over 24 hours, our all-new auctions platform, duPont REGISTRY Live, will finally cross into seven-figure territory, with the sale of the 2023 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, the very first Hypercar listed on the platform. Unique to our platform, duPont REGISTRY Live also offers a 14-day return policy and a 100% sell-through rate, giving you confidence before you place a bid. Showing just 6,848 miles and single ownership from California, this particular example is one of just 60 Pur Sports built for the entire world and is finished in the historically significant Jaune Molsheim specification and Beluga black interior. The yellow and black combination directly references founder Ettore Bugatti and his personal cars. The example seen here packs an extensive list of factory options that amounts to a staggering $234,300. Highlights include a Sky View roof ($62k), Pur Sport interior in Giallo Taurus, Nocturne-painted engine cover, black-coated exhaust deflector, and extensive Giallo Midas detailing and more. Unlike much of the Chiron range that focuses on outright speed, with the Pur Sport, the focus is on handling, lap times, and performance on the race track. Bugatti shortened the gear ratios by 15 percent, recalibrated the 7-speed dual clutch, and revised the all-wheel-drive system to sharpen throttle response and corner exit. Power still sits at 1,500 horsepower and 1,180 pound-feet of torque from the glorious Piëch-era quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16. 60 mph takes under 2.5 seconds, but top speed is capped at 218 mph, so engineers could focus on control. Chassis changes are substantial. Spring rates jump 65 percent up front and 33 percent at the rear. Camber and stability control are retuned for aggressive driving. Aero revisions, including a fixed rear wing and enlarged splitter, generate up to 1,654 pounds of downforce. duPont REGISTRY Live has already seen a Porsche 911 Targa reimagined by Singer bid to just under seven figures. This Pur Sport raises that bar, and for those seeking a modern Bugatti defined by driver engagement, documented rarity, and historically correct specification, this is your last chance to bid on this track-bred Chiron. View Listing Images: duPont REGISTRY, Bugatti

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