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Revealed: The Billionaire Who Bought Ferrari Luce “Chassis 0” For $40 Million

By Charles Bradley –  August 16, 2026

Revealed: The Billionaire Who Bought Ferrari Luce “Chassis 0” For $40 Million

The self-made American billionaire who bought a Ferrari Daytona SP3 ‘Tailor Made’ for $26 million last year is the same investing legend who purchased Ferrari Luce’s Chassis 0 at RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction for $40 million on Saturday night, immediately making it the most expensive contemporary car ever auctioned. Herbert ‘Herbie’ Wertheim, whose life story reads like an American epic, won the auction for the first production example of Maranello's first electric grand tourer. Known to friends as “Dr. Herbie,” Wertheim – who always wears a bright-red fedora – is an optometrist, inventor, and investing legend estimated to be worth up to $5 billion, depending on his charitable donations. Renowned for making shrewd investments and his generous philanthropy, his record-breaking bid will go to the Ferrari Foundation, funding education and rebuilding projects. The Luce carries a base price of roughly $640,000. Chassis 0 is the first production unit off the line, distinguished by a dedicated plaque identifying its position in the production run. It was offered as lot 345, without reserve, and RM Sotheby's waived the buyer's premium on the lot. Every dollar of the sale benefited the Ferrari Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity that supports educational initiatives. The car carries a set of Tailor-Made specifications developed through Ferrari's design studio. The exterior is finished in a Madreperla semi-gloss paint mixed specifically for this car, with an iridescent effect that shifts from green to violet depending on the light. The interior uses Le Mans metallic leather in Perla with Grigio Corvara secondary trim, paired with dedicated wheels and bespoke brake calipers. The Ferrari badge is set against an optical white background. The Luce has been Ferrari's most debated launch in years since it broke cover as the brand's first EV, and this sale is the first major public price signal tied to the model. The result is roughly 36 times the pre-sale estimate. Delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027, after the car returns to Maranello, Italy. Wertheim made the headlines at Car Week last year, when he paid $26 million for the Daytona SP3. Part of Ferrari’s exclusive Icona Series, the SP3 was limited to 599 examples worldwide, but this one-off ‘Tailor Made’ commission stunned the automotive world – chassis ‘599+1,’ finished in a striking two-tone carbon-fiber and Giallo Modena livery. Who is “Dr. Herbie” Wertheim? Born in Philadelphia at the end of the Great Depression, Wertheim ran away from home as a teenager, working odd jobs like picking oranges in Florida and even living with Seminole Indians in the Everglades. At 16, he stood before a judge on truancy charges and was given a choice: State reformatory or military service. He chose the U.S. Navy at 17, a decision that reshaped his life. While serving in naval aviation during the Cold War, Wertheim began investing. His first stock purchase, Lear Jet, came from his Navy stipend, and he went on to meet aviation pioneer Bill Lear in person. That early exposure to technology and industry ignited a lifelong passion. After the Navy, Wertheim studied physics and chemistry, worked as a NASA engineer at Cape Canaveral, and eventually earned a scholarship to study optometry. In 1969, he invented an eyeglass tint for plastic lenses that filtered harmful UV rays, helping prevent cataracts. By 1970, he founded Brain Power Inc. (BPI), which went on to hold more than 100 patents and copyrights in optical technology. A Billionaire Who Played the Long Game Unlike Silicon Valley moguls or Wall Street icons, Wertheim’s fortune didn’t come from a single IPO windfall. Instead, he built it patiently through decades of disciplined investing. He bought and held shares of companies like Apple, Microsoft, GE, Google, BP, and Bank of America long before they became household names, according to Forbes. His single greatest investment remains Heico, an aerospace parts manufacturer. Wertheim purchased a stake in 1992, worth about $5 million at the time. Today, his position exceeds $800 million, making him Heico’s largest individual shareholder. A Life of Luxury, Purpose, and Giving Wertheim’s portfolio afforded him an enviable lifestyle, and he has been described as one of the most successful individual investors of his generation. Yet his wealth is balanced by philanthropy. Having donated more than $100 million to Florida’s public universities, Wertheim also signed Bill Gates and Warren Buffett’s ‘Giving Pledge’, committing to donate at least half his fortune – most of it toward education. Like his stock portfolio, the Ferrari is built on the principle that some creations – whether a transformative technology or a bespoke supercar – transcend market cycles. For collectors, it is yet another reminder that at Monterey Car Week, history isn’t just celebrated – it’s bought and can be driven. View All Ferraris for Sale Images by duPont REGISTRY, Ferrari S.P.A

First Production Ferrari Luce To Be Auctioned For Charity By RM Sotheby’s

By Tyler Rampersaud –  July 10, 2026

RM Sotheby’s To Auction The First Ferrari Luce For Charity

Ferrari recently opened a new chapter in its long history by introducing the Luce, its first all-electric car. The Luce defies several Ferrari conventions with its four-door, five-seat layout, and, of course, its all-electric powertrain, which boasts over 1,000 horsepower. Its design comes from LoveFrom’s duo of Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson, and as a result, the new Luce features a unique, minimalist aesthetic in its interior, while also boasting the lowest drag coefficient of any roadgoing Ferrari yet. A major first in Ferrari history, the Luce is certain to be remembered as an important milestone in the legacy of the manufacturer, and the first production example, called “Chassis 0” is set to be auctioned during Monterey Car Week for charity by RM Sotheby’s. The first Luce Chassis, “Chassis 0” was customized by Ferrari’s Tailor Made program with a configuration that references the namesake of the car, light. The body of the car is finished in Madreperla Semi-Gloss, with a special pigment that emits a mother-of-pearl-like iridescence. Dedicated wheels complement the exterior color, with bespoke brake calipers enhancing the configuration, as well. The interior, meanwhile, features Le Mans metallic leather in Perla, which was developed specifically for the car, paired with secondary elements in Grigio Corvara. The dashboard features the Ferrari Luce logo on an optic white background, completing the captivatingly unique configuration. <- Gallery -> The funds raised from the auction sale of the Ferrari Luce “Chassis 0” will benefit global educational initiatives, aligning with the Luce’s dedication towards innovation and futurism. Through The Ferrari Foundation, which is a 501(c) (3) public charity, proceeds will benefit educational projects in the United States, and proceeds will also be donated to M-TECH Alfredo Ferrari. Opening in 2029 in Maranello, M-TECH Alfredo Ferrari is an educational hub that will train talent from across the globe, contributing to progress in automotive technology. An iconic, groundbreaking Ferrari and the beginning of a new era, the first production Ferrari Luce’s RM Sotheby’s auction at Monterey Car Week is set to be an exciting sale, with good causes set to benefit from it. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Image Source: RM Sotheby's

1-of-9 Argento Nürburgring Ferrari Enzo Heads to Auction

By Jordan Aquistapace –  April 15, 2026

1-of-9 Argento Nürburgring Ferrari Enzo Heads to Auction

Once revered as an exclusive, limited-production supercar, like most cars nowadays, the Ferrari Enzo is making its much-deserved second wind as the collector car world has witnessed some truly jaw-dropping sales results. Less than a year ago, examples traded ownership publicly in the range of $4 million to $5 million, which seems like a deal in today’s market. What caught fire like a match strike with The Bachman Collection’s $16.5 million example in Kissimmee, and later solidified with an $11.5 million sale at Amelia Island, the Ferrari Enzo has officially taken off as an eight-figure collector car, and there’s no turning back. RM Sotheby’s is looking to make headlines as well with this 2004 Ferrari Enzo at its upcoming Monaco 2026 auction event. Finished in Argento Nürburgring over a classic Rosso leather interior, this particular Enzo resides in unicorn territory, even among an already limited 500 example production run. Just nine examples left the Ferrari factory in this color, and only five paired it with Rosso inside, making it one of the most visually distinctive specs out there. More notably, it remains the only silver Enzo delivered new to the United Kingdom, originally through Maranello Concessionaires Ltd before later relocating to Europe. With just over 19,000 kilometers on the odometer, it strikes that sweet spot collectors tend to appreciate, driven enough to be enjoyed, yet preserved.Beyond the spec sheet, it’s the story and upkeep that elevate this car. Backed by Ferrari Classiche certification and accompanied by its coveted “Red Book,” the Enzo has seen consistent attention from marque specialists, including Garage Zenith, Charles Pozzi, and DK Engineering. Most recently serviced in January 2026 by Lecoq Paris, the car received fresh maintenance and a new set of Pirelli tires, supporting its ready-to-drive appeal.Developed at a time when Ferrari was channeling its Formula 1 program directly into its road cars, it introduced carbon fiber construction, active aerodynamics, and a screaming 6.0L V12 producing 660 horsepower, all in a package that could push past 217 mph. Named after Enzo Ferrari, it carries the weight of legends like the 288 GTO, F40, and F50. Today, as the market continues to reveal what these cars are truly worth, rare, well-documented examples like this Argento Nürburgring Enzo are exactly the kind that keep pushing the ceiling higher. All RM Sotheby's Inventory Source: RM Sotheby's/Images: Kevin Van Campenhout

A Barely Driven Ferrari Monza SP2 Heads to Villa d’Este

By Jordan Aquistapace –  April 09, 2026

A Barely Driven Ferrari Monza SP2 Heads to Villa d’Este

Held annually on the picturesque shores of Lake Como, Italy, since 1929, Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este has shaped itself as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious concours events. As part of the celebration, Broad Arrow Auctions returns in 2026 with a lineup of rare, exclusive cars, each with its own story and source of inspiration, drawing in bidders from around the globe. Broad Arrow just announced the opportunity to acquire a Ferrari Monza SP2 during its Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este auction.Special to Ferrari’s Icona series, the SP2 pulls heavily from the brand’s post-war racing history, mirroring shapes and proportions from cars like the 166MM and early Monza racers. It’s a modern interpretation, not a retro recreation. The lack of a traditional windshield is probably the first thing you notice, replaced by Ferrari’s “Virtual Windshield,” which redirects airflow to make the experience feel surprisingly functional at speed.This particular example, chassis 261538, has barely been used, showing just over 400 kilometers. Finished in a two-tone Rosso California with a contrasting nose and subtle metallic touches, it carries a look that suits the car’s character. Inside, the materials are more tactile, with a mix of fabric and leather that keeps things from feeling overly luxurious. Details like four-point harnesses and custom carbon-fiber helmets reinforce the idea that the Monza SP2 is meant to be experienced, even if most spend their lives carefully preserved.Underneath it all, the SP2 is still rooted in the Ferrari 812 Superfast, which means a naturally aspirated 6.5L V12 sits at the center of the experience. With nearly 800 horsepower on tap and a 0–60mph time under three seconds, performance shines through. But numbers only tell part of the story here. The real attraction is the full package, the sound, the exposure to the elements, and the driver connection. As it heads to auction, bidders will have the opportunity to join a very exclusive community of owners with Broad Arrow Auctions' Ferrari Monza SP2 showcase. Broad Arrow Auctions Inventory Source: Broad Arrow Auctions

A white classic Ferrari Dino sports car with a black roof is parked on a curved concrete driveway next to a grassy area and a pond, evoking the spirit of the Cannonball Run.

By Tyler Rampersaud –  July 31, 2025

Mecum To Auction Cannonball Run Record-Breaking Ferrari D...

This charming classic also has its own epic story. While it was a popular and groundbreaking model for Ferrari in its time, and one of the most cherished classics from the legendary manufacturer today, the Ferrari Dino 246 was ahead of its time in a way. Rather than being sold as a Ferrari, it was sold under the Dino marque with a mid-mounted V6 rather than Ferrari’s more common V8 and 12-cylinder engines. However, Ferrari’s hybrid 296 supercar uses a V6 today, and so does the most powerful production roadgoing Ferrari yet, the new Ferrari F80. The Dino was an important milestone in Ferrari’s history, not only for its engine but also for the fact that it was the first production model from Ferrari to have a mid-mounted engine. Because of its impact and influence, it’s one of the most desirable classic Ferraris on the market, and one that will be crossing the block at this year’s Mecum Auctions Monterey 2025 Auction. However, this 1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS isn’t just any Dino, it’s a special example that has an incredible story behind it. It was driven during the 1975 Cannonball Run by Jack May, who set a record by driving from New York to Los Angeles at an average speed of 83 mph in just 35 hours and 53 minutes alongside Rick Cline. Consigned by Jack May himself, the car combines the legacy of the Dino with the excitement of the Cannonball Run and Jack May’s illustrious racing career, with experience at venues like Sebring, Mille Miglia, Road Atlanta, and more. The car is in stunningly preserved, unrestored condition, finished in Bianco over a Rosso leather interior, proudly showcasing its heritage, and it’s set to cross the block at Mecum’s 2025 Monterey Auction, which is taking place from August 14-16 at the Del Monte Golf Course in Monterey, California. With an amazing story behind it, anticipation is already building for the bidding on this legendary Dino. View Listing " width="680"> Image Source: Mecum Auctions

A red Ferrari F40 LM is parked on a cobblestone driveway in front of an ornate building with columns and arches, reminiscent of the elegance seen at RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction.

By Jordan Aquistapace –  July 21, 2025

RARE 1993 Ferrari F40 LM GTC Set to Headline at RM Sotheb...

The Ferrari F40 needs no introduction, but the F40 LM by Michelotto takes this iconic supercar to an entirely different level. Born from a racing vision in the late '80s, the LM was developed after Daniel Marin of Ferrari importer Charles Pozzi SA pushed for a competition-spec version. With Ferrari's blessing, Michelotto transformed 19 F40s into LMs, purpose-built for track domination. Among them, a few were further upgraded to GTC specifications, delivering the most potent evolution of the breed. Chassis 95448, the 14th LM built, is one of those rare few, showcasing a documented legacy that spans European circuits and concours lawns alike. RM Sotheby's is set to feature this F40 LM as one of its headline lots during the upcoming Monterey Car Week auction, which is sure to draw attention from serious collectors and vintage motorsport worldwide. This particular F40 LM wears its racing DNA proudly. Finished in classic Rosso Corsa with plexiglass sliding windows and aerodynamic tweaks like a revised front end and large rear wing, it looks every bit the track weapon. Every detail is functional, from the lightweight body to the OZ magnesium wheels. While originally completed in 1992, this example has undergone multiple refreshes, most notably a factory repaint and tuning at Michelotto in 2014, preserving its authenticity while guaranteeing it remains in top-tier condition. Whether seen at Mugello in the '90s or on display at ModaMiami in 2025, it still turns heads wherever it goes. Inside, the car sticks to a no-nonsense race-ready vibe. Cloth-trimmed seats, harnesses, and a pared-back competition-style dash define its cockpit. There's no fluff; just what you need to focus on speed and precision. The current interior stays true to the original factory spec, as verified by Ferrari Classiche certification, confirming the numbers-matching engine, transaxle, and coachwork. While the physical "Red Book" is missing, digital documentation confirms full transparency for serious collectors. This F40 LM was always meant to be driven hard, and its careful maintenance history and detailed service records, including a recent $67K overhaul, show it's been treated accordingly. Of course, the heart of this F40 is its monster GTC-spec engine. Producing an incredible 760 horsepower, nearly 300 more than a standard F40, this twin-turbo V8 is paired with upgraded cooling, suspension, and braking systems. The performance specs are also impressive: 0–120mph in under 10 seconds, sounding like a turbocharged symphony. It's the kind of analog power delivery that's increasingly rare, making this LM a thrilling drive and a legitimate piece of motorsport history. With its clean documentation, original components, and unmistakable presence, this 1993 Ferrari F40 LM by Michelotto represents the top of the food chain for Ferrari collectors and historic racers alike. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Source: RM Sotheby's

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By Jordan Aquistapace –  March 19, 2025

Sotheby Motorsport’s Auction For This 1972 Ferrari 365 GT...

A chance to own a piece of Ferrari history. While we're all accustomed to Ferrari icons like the 288 GTO, F40, F50, and LaFerrari, none would be what they are today without the Daytona. And while the Italian marque never originally referred to it as the "Daytona," the coveted 365 GTB/4 earned its nickname after Ferrari claimed a clean sweep at the 24 Hours of Daytona the year before its debut at the 1968 Paris Auto Salon. With only 1,284 examples produced between 1968 and 1973, the ultra-limited Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona production makes it even rarer than the F40. The team at Sotheby's Motorsport is proud to present this 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 as part of its current online auctions. View Auction Listing This Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona stands out as an impressive opportunity for collectors seeking a well-preserved example of the iconic grand tourer. Delivered new by Clarke Simpkins Motors of Vancouver, BC, this 1972 Daytona was first owned in California and has covered just 20,000 miles since new. Finished in Rosso Chiaro over a tan leather interior with signature Daytona seat inserts, it retains its original engine and gearbox, certified through Ferrari's Classiche program. The car's documented history includes a Marcel Massini report from 2017, confirming its authenticity and provenance. Notable features include Borrani wire wheels, a Becker Europa II stereo, power windows, and air conditioning. This example also benefits from an upgraded air conditioning system and a switch to a leather steering wheel, enhancing comfort and usability. Accompanying the car are the original tool kit, owner's manuals, and books, making it a complete and desirable addition to any Ferrari enthusiast's collection. The Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona is powered by a 4.4-liter Colombo V12 engine that produces 352 horsepower and 318 lb-ft of torque. This iconic V12 features six Weber carburetors, giving it a distinctively aggressive exhaust note and sharp throttle response. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission positioned in a rear-mounted transaxle for improved weight distribution, the Daytona offers balanced handling and impressive performance. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 174 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars of its time. Bid on Sotheby Motorsport's 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona by clicking the link below. View Auction Listing Source: Sotheby's Motorsport

Side view of a red vintage sports car, reminiscent of a Ferrari 250 LM with the number 21 on the side, boasting a sleek, aerodynamic design that echoes its Le Mans-winning legacy against a neutral background.

By Tyler Rampersaud –  February 06, 2025

RM Sotheby's Sells Le Mans-Winning 1964 Ferrari 250 LM Fo...

This classic racing hero sold for an astonishing price. Ferrari has one of the greatest racing legacies in the world, and some of its most epic stories were forged at what is arguably the world’s most contentious racing arena: the 24 Hours of Le Mans. One Ferrari that played an instrumental role in building this heritage in the 1960s is the Ferrari 250 LM. Only 32 examples of the 250 LM were ever built, and one particularly spectacular one sold at RM Sotheby’s Paris 2025 Auction for a staggering price above $36 million. A 1964 Ferrari 250 LM, the car was the sixth of the 32 250 LM cars made. Owned by Luigi Chinetti and driven by Masten Gregory and Jochen Rindt for the North American Racing Team (NART), the car won the 24 Hours of Le Mans outright in 1965. That victory made the car a unicorn for various reasons: it secured the sixth consecutive Ferrari victory at Le Mans, it was the only privateer-entered Ferrari to win Le Mans overall, and it was the last V12 Ferrari to win Le Mans. Since its milestone achievements, the car has been preciously kept, with the matching numbers engine and gearbox still there, and all that pedigree concentrated in one vehicle makes it one of the most incredible collector-grade cars of all time. In Paris, it crossed the RM Sotheby’s auction block, selling for an astronomical price of roughly $36,344,960, truly showcasing the significance of one of the greatest treasures in automotive history sold. View All Ferraris For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by RM Sotheby's (@rmsothebys) Image Source: shooterz.biz ©2024 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's

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