The most expensive Ferrari is the 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO, valued at a staggering $70 million during a 2014 private sale. This rare and prestigious car is highly sought after by collectors. Boasting a powerful V-12 engine and impressive racing capabilities, only 36 models were made.
If you’re a car enthusiast, then you probably know that Ferrari is one of the most luxurious and prestigious car brands in the world.
And if you’re someone who loves to collect cars or simply enjoys admiring them, then you might be interested in learning about the most expensive Ferrari cars in the world.
These cars are not just automobiles, they’re works of art, with their sleek and elegant designs, powerful engines, and unparalleled speed.
From limited edition models to custom-built masterpieces, the Ferrari cars on this list are truly one-of-a-kind. But, what makes them so expensive?
Is it the quality of the materials, the rarity of the model, or the reputation of the brand? We’ll be exploring all of these questions and more, as we take a closer look at the world’s most expensive Ferraris.
Whether you’re a fan of Ferraris or just love admiring high-end cars, this article is sure to keep you entertained and educated.
Most Expensive Ferraris of All Time
10. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider
The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after and expensive cars ever to be released.
Thus, it comes as no surprise that in 2015 this sleek, two-door convertible shattered records when it sold for an astronomical $18.64 million at auction ᅳ becoming the first car to ever surpass the ten million dollar mark!
The spectacular appeal of this superior speedster lies in its rarity and timeless charm: only 37 versions with covered front headlights came off the production line, one of which belonged to French actor Alain Delon before it went on to set a record at the auction.
Additionally, this specific model had never been restored or altered ᅳ making it an even more compelling purchase that many wealthy buyers were willing to pay heavily for!
Even though other Ferraris like the LaFerrari might have costlier price tags attached, none can compare to the allure and value of this legendary classic!
9. 1954/1959 Ferrari 0432M
Ferrari has a rich and storied history of racing success, with several of its vehicles leaving indelible impressions on their respective competitions.
One particularly noteworthy example is the 1954/1959 Ferrari 0432M – a unique car that combines components from multiple models and boasts an iconic racing pedigree.
It was driven to victory at the 12 Hours of Hyeres event in 1954, showcasing the engineering prowess of Ferrari’s early days.
Thanks to some luxurious updates over its lifetime, this legendary vehicle sold for an eye-watering $20 million in 2019.
From its distinctive droplet-like headlight panels to its powerful prototype 250 GT engine, it remains one of the most expensive Ferraris cars in the world today.
8. 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider
The 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider is one of the most extraordinary and precious cars ever created by Maranello’s storied brand.
This rare racecar boasts a sleek design, aerodynamic shape, powerful engine, and impressive historical pedigree that culminates with its astounding $22 million sale in 2022.
This particular vehicle has an illustrious legacy within the racing community, having set new performance records during the 1950s and 1960s while being driven by some of the world’s greatest drivers like Carroll Shelby and Juan Manuel Fangio at events such as the 1956 1000 KM Buenos Aires.
As custom-made for factory-based racing, this car also holds special significance as it marks renowned designer Sergio Scaglietti’s skillful handiwork in creating unique coachwork.
7. Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale
The Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale is one of the most expensive Ferraris in the world. Produced in 1966 and 1967, only twelve examples were ever made, all for independent racing teams such as NART and Maranello Concessionaires.
This lightweight racecar was based on the road-going Ferrari 275 Grand Tourer but boasted a heavily re-engineered body built from superlight steel and aluminum.
To further lighten its weight fiberglass was used to reinforce certain areas of the car without adding extra bulk.
As a result, it weighed 150 kilograms less than its road-going counterpart, setting it apart even more from other cars of its era which pre-dated carbon fiber manufacturing.
Under the hood lies a 3.5L Tipo V12 engine capable of churning out 300hp – not bad for an almost fifty-year-old racecar!
The rarity combined with its ingenuity make this one of the most desired Ferraris by collectors worldwide; as a testimony to this, an example sold at RM Sotheby’s auction in 2014 went under the hammer for over 26 million dollars!
Some experts believe that when another example goes up for sale again soon, there will be no shortage of wealthy buyers willing to pay double that amount or more!
6. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4S ‘NART Spider’
The 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4S NART Spider is one of the most exclusive vehicles ever to grace the road.
With only ten units produced, it’s no wonder that a perfectly-preserved version of this classic convertible sold for an astounding $27.5 million at auction in 2013.
This rare car stands out from the crowd with its bright red exterior and black folding hood, but there’s more to it than meets the eye.
Its beauty is complemented by performance capabilities thanks to its V12 engine and Scaglietti design which allow it to reach competition speeds without sacrificing comfort for everyday driving.
Perhaps most impressively, it was also the most technologically advanced Ferrari when it was released back in 1967, making it an indelible part of automotive history as well as being hugely desirable today.
Originally owned by Eddie Smith Sr., in North Carolina, this iconic Ferrari has been subject to decades of high-quality maintenance and restoration work – meaning current owners can ensure they always experience peak performance on their drives.
It may be too valuable (and too special) for everyday use – but we hope they savor every moment behind the wheel!
5. 1956 Ferrari 290 MM Spider Scaglietti
The Ferrari 290 MM Spider Scaglietti is widely regarded as one of the most expensive and iconic Ferraris in existence.
Assembled for the 1956 Mille Miglia, this legendary racecar was driven by some of the greatest racing legends like Sir Stirling Moss, Peter Collins, and Juan Manuel Fangio.
An engineering marvel at the time, it had a 3.5-liter Tipo V-12 engine that could generate 320 horsepower and was derived from its predecessor 860 Monza.
Weighing less than 2,000 pounds with a wheelbase measuring 92.5 inches, it produced an astounding performance with astronomical top speed recorded at 170 mph, on par with its heavy competitors in those days.
This extremely rare model was limited to only four units being produced in 1956 which has immensely contributed to its soaring value today.
The car driven by Juan Manuel Fangio during the 1956 Mille Miglia fetched an astonishing $28.05 million when put up for auction while another unit bagged $22 million at RM Sotheby’s event in Los Angeles – making it one of the most expensive Ferrari cars in the world!
4. 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti
Considered one of the most sought-after and expensive Ferrari cars in the world, the 355 Sport Scaglietti is a testament to Ferrari’s incredible racing history.
The classic front-engined V-12 engine is derived from the highly successful 315 S model, and when combined with a four-speed manual transmission, it produces an impressive 390 horsepower.
This exquisite four-seater weighs in at just 1940 pounds with a short wheelbase making it incredibly agile on the track and even quicker than its Maserati contender – significantly contributing to its prestige.
The 355 was designed by automotive legend Carrozzeria Scaglietti; featuring sleek design elements under a newly developed 4.0-liter Tipo Jano V12 engine that could effortlessly reach speeds up to 140 mph – before safety regulations had been implemented – making this beauty a true force on the race tracks of its time.
What makes owning this car even rarer is that only 4 units were ever produced between 1957 and 1958, one being converted from a 1965 S model rendering them exceptionally hard to come by whenever they do appear on auction blocks around the globe.
As recently as 2019 these beauties have traded hands at an exorbitant Є32 million (approx $33 million), earning them the right to be included among some of the most expensive Ferrari cars that have ever been produced.
3. 1962-63 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta
The 1962-63 Ferrari 250 GTO Berlinetta is among the most sought-after and expensive cars in the world. Originally introduced by Italian automaker Ferrari in 1962, only 31 vehicles of this model remain to this day.
A particular example, chassis number 3851GT, achieved legendary status when it was sold at a Bonhams auction for an astonishing $38.11 million in 2014.
It had previously been owned by famous French Formula One driver Jo Schlesser who competed with it in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile – finishing second place.
The car later passed through various owners before being bought and kept by Fabrizio Violati over nearly five decades – making his own 250 GTO probably the most well-preserved and cherished out of all models still existing today.
2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
The renowned 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the most exclusive and sought-after cars in the world. With only 36 models homologated between 1962 and 1964, it has become a respected symbol of automotive excellence.
Designed by famed Giotto Bizzarini and Sergio Scaglietti, the ‘coke bottle’ shape was created to succeed its predecessor, the 250 GT Berlinetta SWB as a formidable competitor in endurance sports car events like 24 Hours of Le Mans and Sebring alongside other race champions like Aston Martin DP123, Jaguar E-Type and Shelby Cobra.
Boasting an all-alloy V12 engine with six Weber carburetors providing 302 horsepower along with dog-leg manual transmission, this vehicle could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.4 seconds while reaching 174 mph on top speed – making it quick even by today’s standards.
Early examples from 1962 are available on the market at more reasonable prices; however, a recent private sale for a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO fetched an astounding USD 48.4 million confirming its status as one of the most expensive cars ever traded.
1. 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO
The Ferrari 250 GTO is widely revered among automobile collectors as the Holy Grail of classic cars.
Produced in a limited number of only 36 models between 1962 and 1964, the 250 GTO was renowned for its impressive racing capabilities.
With a Tipo Comp 3.0-liter V-12 engine producing 302 horsepower and paired with a five-speed gearbox featuring Porsche-style synchromesh, this front-engined GT vehicle could reach an astonishing 174 mph – unheard of in its time – while also completing quarter-mile runs in just 13.1 seconds!
It’s no surprise that one particular model, bearing chassis number 4153GT obtained in 1963, placed itself firmly into the record books by becoming the most expensive car ever sold at an auction when it fetched USD 70 million in 2014.
Its winning title at Tour de France in 1964 even added to its value making it exceptionally sought after by collectors; some reports suggest that should it come into the market again today, the estimated worth could be upwards of USD 100 million!
Truly a timeless marvel shrouded in mystery and intrigue, the Ferrari 250 GTO is rightly celebrated as one of the world’s most expensive cars ever made.