The Priciest Ferraris on the Globe

Ferrari ownership grants access to an exclusive club, but not all Ferraris are treated equally. Some models from the brand’s illustrious history hold substantial value, even when compared to newer counterparts like the 2022 Ferrari Daytona SP3, which boasts a staggering starting price of $2,226,935. However, classic Ferraris from the 50s and 60s may lack the comfort and technological advancements found in today’s trim models. Nevertheless, they possess a timeless quality that new models will not acquire for a considerable period: age.

The classic Ferraris of yesteryears were constructed with technology that has long been deemed outdated and obsolete. Yet, during their prime, they represented the pinnacle of automotive engineering. While they may not offer the smoothest ride compared to their modern counterparts, they hold immense value as collectible cars. As these vintage beauties age, their worth appreciates, defying the typical trends seen in the automotive industry. Occasionally, a few outliers emerge in a vehicle’s history, such as a limited-production special edition introduced amidst the lineup. However, even these exceptional models have yet to attain the financial stardom achieved by the original Ferraris.

Keeping this in mind, let us delve into a list of the most exclusive and exorbitantly priced cars adorned with the iconic prancing horse emblem.

1. 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO: $70 Million

The 250 GTO, a remarkable Ferrari model, holds the title for being the most expensive one ever sold. In 2018, David MacNeil, the esteemed CEO and founder of WeatherTech, acquired this extraordinary vehicle. Specifically, MacNeil purchased chassis number 4153 GT, a car that had previously triumphed as both an overall and class winner in the renowned 1964 Tour de France.

This acquisition became the crowning jewel in MacNeil’s already impressive collection, which boasts other remarkable Ferraris such as the 250 GT Berlinetta SWB, the 250 GT Lusso, the 275 GTB, the F40, and the F50. Although this transaction was conducted privately, numerous images of the car can be found in the public domain. These images showcase the car’s stunning silver exterior adorned with a French tricolor stripe that elegantly stretches along its length. It is worth noting that the car was originally silver and yellow.

The 250 GTO is a vehicle that needs no introduction. Its captivating bodywork, which has been officially recognized as a work of art, coupled with its powerful V12 engine and illustrious racing heritage, have elevated its status to unparalleled heights. Even the most expensive Ferrari models available for purchase today, with all their cutting-edge carbon fiber bodywork, cannot hope to rival the sheer magnificence of the 250 GTO.

2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: Sold For $48.4 Million

The original 1962 Ferrari 250 GTOs have sparked a new era of ultra-high-end collectibles. This magnificent vehicle, powered by a V-12 engine borrowed from the 250 Testa Rossa, has revolutionized the endurance racing scene. Its all-alloy engine, equipped with six Webber carburetors, proved to be exceptionally effective. Boasting 302 horsepower and a dog-leg manual transmission, this car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.4 seconds, with a top speed of 174 mph. These figures remain impressive even by today’s standards.

While early models from 1962 are relatively more affordable, the last recorded sale of a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO fetched a staggering $48,405,000 million at RM Sotheby’s annual collector car sale in Monterey, California. This astounding price tag solidifies its position as one of the most expensive cars in the world.

3. 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti: $35.73 Million

Chassis 0674, a 1957 Ferrari 335 S Spider with Scaglietti bodywork, is not only one of the most expensive Ferrari models ever, but also one of the priciest cars in the world. This remarkable vehicle commanded a staggering $35.73 million when it was sold through an Artcurial auction in 2016, solidifying its status as a Prancing Horse infused with a rich racing heritage.

This exceptional car boasts an impressive track record, having emerged victorious in the 1958 Cuban Grand Prix and securing a second-place finish in the 1957 Mille Miglia. It has been driven by legendary figures such as Stirling Moss, Wolfgang von Trips, and Mike Hawthorn, the inaugural winner of the Formula 1 Drivers Championship.

The illustrious history of this Ferrari has been meticulously documented in numerous books dedicated to tracing the brand’s heritage and racing origins. Like many racing cars, it underwent multiple engine swaps to meet the requirements of various motorsport series. When collector Pierre Bardinon eventually sold it, the vehicle was equipped with a tipo 141 motor: a 4.0-liter, 60-degree Jano V12 engine sourced from the standard 335 S model.

Should this extraordinary automobile change hands once again, it is expected to command an even higher price. Notably, the current owner is none other than Lionel Messi, adding an extra layer of prestige to an already remarkable vehicle.

4. 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta: $30.255 Million

At the Bonhams Quail Lodge auction of 2023, yet another classic Ferrari racer was sold for an astonishing amount. The 1967 412P Berlinetta, which played a crucial role in Ferrari’s victory in the 1967 World Sportscar Championship (chassis 0854), fetched an incredible $30,255,000 when the hammer finally fell. This exceptional car, boasting matching numbers, is equipped with a powerful 420-hp 4.0-liter V12 engine, featuring six Weber carburetors. Its performance is further enhanced by a five-speed manual transmission and an advanced suspension system for its time, consisting of coil springs, anti-roll bars, and unequal-length wishbones. Additionally, each corner of this masterpiece showcases disc brakes, a testament to its engineering excellence.

Having achieved numerous victories in 1968, this car has built an impressive reputation of its own. After retiring from the racing scene, it passed through the hands of several esteemed American owners. Most recently, it was in the possession of a distinguished owner for a remarkable 18 years. During this time, the car underwent a meticulous restoration process, aiming to revive its former glory when it last competed under the ownership of the Maranello Concessionaires. This restoration journey was an arduous undertaking, spanning nine years, but the result is truly remarkable.

5. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM: $28.05 Million

Another Ferrari model, the 290 MM, has made its way onto our list, securing the sixth spot as one of the most expensive Ferraris in the world. This particular vehicle, which boasts a unique tri-tone bodywork and a powerful 3.5-liter, 320-hp V12 engine, was certified by Ferrari Classiche and was sold at an auction in December 2015 for a staggering $28.05 million.

What sets this Ferrari apart is not only its exorbitant price tag but also its remarkable history. Out of the limited production of only four units, chassis number 0626 had the privilege of being driven by the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio during the 1956 World Sportscar Championship for the esteemed Scuderia Ferrari. Despite starting the 1956 Mille Miglia race from the last position and embarking on the challenging journey without a navigator, Fangio defied the odds and managed to secure an impressive fourth place overall.

Following Fangio’s remarkable feat, this exceptional vehicle was entrusted to the skilled hands of Formula One champion Phil Hill and the renowned German Grand Prix driver Wolfgang Alexander Albert Eduard Maximilian Reichsgraf Berghe, better known as Taffy von Trips. Together, they achieved a remarkable second-place finish at the Swedish Grand Prix in Kristianstad in 1956.

In conclusion, the 290 MM Ferrari not only stands as one of the most expensive models in the world but also holds a captivating history, having been driven by motorsport legends such as Fangio, Hill, and von Trips. Its unique features, exceptional performance, and meticulous maintenance make it a true gem in the world of luxury automobiles.