Monterey Car Week operates in a realm distinct from the typical automotive landscape. It's the only place globally where a car priced at a million dollars is deemed 'affordable.' This week, several prominent auctions are happening in central California, and we've meticulously reviewed each to pinpoint the crème de la crème. This year, seven exceptional vehicles are anticipated to breach the nine-figure mark. Ferrari unsurprisingly leads the pack, but an esteemed competitor might claim the top spot in the Monterey auction. Post-bidding, prices could soar beyond $20 million, a staggering sum even for the elite one percent. Here's a snapshot of the anticipated $10 million club for Monterey Car Week 2024, based on current estimates. We'll provide final bid figures once the festivities conclude.
1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Rennversion: Estimated at $8.5-$10.5 million. This vibrant 911 GT1, one of nine customer models constructed, is noted for its pristine condition and unbroken history, including participation in the Le Mans race, adorned with a striking Rohr racing livery. It will be auctioned by Broad Arrow on August 15.
1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante: Estimated at $9-$11 million. These exceedingly rare Bugattis maintain unparalleled value, featuring a robust 200-horsepower straight-eight engine, half the cylinders of a new Tourbillon. This particular model, one of 17 with Atalante bodywork, secured a first-in-class victory at the recent Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, to be auctioned by Gooding & Company on August 16 and 17.
1957 Ferrari 625 TRC Spider by Scaglietti: Estimated at $9-$11 million. This vintage Ferrari boasts a rich racing history, to be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s on August 16. Initially equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, it now houses a 3.0-liter V-12, though the original engine is included, making it one of only two with the original Ferrari four-cylinder setup.
1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider: Estimated at $15-$17 million. The first of two Ferrari California Spiders, auctioned by Gooding & Company, is touted as a relative steal with a starting estimate of $15 million. Originally factory-finished in blue, it was repainted red in 1968 after changing hands several times, set to be auctioned on August 16.
1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider: Estimated at $16-18 million. RM Sotheby’s hails this black Ferrari as the “finest, most significant 250 GT SWB California Spider available.” It was the first of its kind built and showcased by Ferrari at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show. This marks its debut on the public market, with its final price uncertain when auctioned on August 17.
1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider: Estimated at $16-$20 million. Could this exquisite Alfa Romeo claim the title of the most expensive car at Monterey Car Week? One of only five in existence, it boasts a lofty estimate of $20 million, highlighting its prestigious ownership history and a prior victory at Pebble Beach. It will be auctioned by Gooding & Company on August 16.
1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider by Scaglietti: Estimated at over $15 million. This uniquely styled Ferrari stands out in this high-priced lineup. Described as neither fully a race car nor a standard road car, it served as the prototype for the 410 Sport Scuderia and was driven by the then-unknown racer Carroll Shelby. Its lack of a high estimate reflects its unique history, with its final price to be determined when auctioned by RM Sotheby's on August 17, drawing significant attention.
