The Top 10 Most Expensive Cars at International Auctions 2023

As the year draws to a close, it's time for annual reviews. While we await the detailed analyses of the remaining international auction results from Cliff Goodall and the Roarington editorial team, let's discover the top 10 most expensive cars sold in 2023. For the first time, nearly all exceeded the $10 million threshold at the fall of the hammer, underscoring the vibrant market and enduring passion for classic cars. Ferrari dominates this passion, with six out of ten cars in the ranking.

1 - 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO #3765. Sotheby’s, New York, 13th November 2023

A rare occurrence in the auction world, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, one of only 36 ever made, was auctioned for the first time in nine years - the previous sale was in 2014 for $38 million. This iconic car was featured at Sotheby’s modern and contemporary art event in New York. The result? Sold for $51,705,000 (or €47,320,000).

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2 - 1967 Ferrari 412P. Bonhams, The Quail, 18th August 2023

During Pebble Beach week, a reverent silence fell as the 1967 Ferrari 412P, driven by Richard Attwood, Lucien Bianchi, Piers Courage, David Piper and Jo Siffert, was auctioned at Bonhams' The Quail event. This rolling work of art sold for $30,255,000 (€27,689,000).

For a complete analysis of the Pebble Beach auctions, click here.

3 - 2013 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W04. RM Sotheby’s, Las Vegas, 17th November 2023

The Formula 1 car that brought Mercedes back to victory after the titles of the 1950s. It was also Lewis Hamilton's first drive for Mercedes at the 2013 Hungarian Grand Prix. Sold in Las Vegas during an event coinciding with the GP for $18,815,000 (€17,219,300), it is the most expensive car of the 21st century ever sold.

If you want to know more, click here for the analysis of the Las Vegas auction.

4 - 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider. Gooding, Amelia Island, 3rd March 2023

Recognized as one of the most enchanting cars in history with traditional headlights, finding one of the 37 produced with covered headlights is an irresistible temptation. Not only that, but also the only one painted in ‘Azzurro Metallizzato’. Exclusivity comes at a price and the gavel dropped for the record-setting amount of $18,045,000 (€16,514,500).

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5 - 1964 Ferrari 250 LM. Artcurial, Paris, 6th July 2023

After the failed attempt to sell it at Retromobile, Artcurial re-offered the 1964 Ferrari 250 LM in Paris in July. The timing was impeccable, considering it was the last model from Maranello to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1965 before this year's success with the Hypercar 499P just weeks before the event. Sold for $17,232,700 (€15,771,200).

Discover more here.

6 - 1957 Jaguar XKSS. RM Sotheby’s, Monterey, 19th August 2023

A road-going version of the legendary three-time 24 Hours of Le Mans D-Type was sold during Pebble Beach week for $13,205,000 (€12,085,000), setting a new record for the iconic model.

Here is the complete analysis of the RM Sotheby's auction in Monterey.

7 - 1972 Ferrari 312 PB. RM Sotheby’s, Villa Erba Cernobbio, 20th May 2023

This year's Villa d'Este weekend showcased not only the cars of the Concours d'Elegance, but also the sale of a rare piece such as the 1972 Ferrari 312 PB. This car, with its significant sporting pedigree, was sold for $13,158,500 (€12,042,500).

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8 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Roadster. RM Sotheby’s, Las Vegas, 17th November 2023

A car that needs no introduction, especially among younger enthusiasts, with only 6 units ever built. Not seen at auctions since 2015 when it sold for around $2.3m, it fetched $10,235,000 (€9,367,000) in Las Vegas last November.

A significant increase in value! Here is the in-depth analysis of the Las Vegas auction.

9 - 2022 Bugatti Chiron Profilée. RM Sotheby’s, Paris, 31st January 2023

A one-off model introduced by Bugatti in 2016, represents the ultimate in exclusivity. Its special ‘Argent Atlantic’ colour, reminiscent of the 1938 57SC, and custom-designed bodywork are its distinguishing features. Sold by RM Sotheby’s in Paris for $10,700,000 (€9,792,500), it immediately became the star of the Bugatti Tour Europe in late September.

10 - 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta. Gooding, Pebble Beach, 19th August 2023

The original condition and unique the colour combination of ‘grigio metallizzato’ over a beige leather interior undoubtedly contributed to its excellent performance at Gooding's Pebble Beach auction. Sold for $9,465,000 (€8,662,275).

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