RM Sotheby’s achieved over $1 billion in total sales this year, marking a significant milestone for the collector car market. The auction house conducted 44 live, online, and sealed auctions along with private sales, offering 1,024 lots to collectors from around the world.
Key Takeaways
- $1 billion in total sales for RM Sotheby’s this year
- 53 million dollars fetched by a Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen, second most expensive car ever sold at auction
- Top ten cars collectively realized $225 million with nine-figure sums
In the auctions held across various cities and online platforms, bidders from 82 countries participated. Among them, nearly half were first-time buyers who contributed to the success of RM Sotheby’s events.
The live auction sell-through rate reached an impressive 92%, indicating high demand for rare and historically significant vehicles offered by the company. Over a hundred cars sold for more than $1 million each during these auctions, with some setting new records across different marques and models.
One standout item was the Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen from 1954 that fetched over $53 million at a special one-car sale in Stuttgart. This car was driven by racing legends Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio, with Fangio winning the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix.
Other top sellers included Ferrari’s Le Mans-winning 250 LM that sold for over $36 million at an auction in Paris, as well as a final production Daytona SP3 from Ferrari which fetched nearly $26 million. These sales highlight the enduring appeal and value of classic cars among collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most expensive car sold at RM Sotheby’s this year?
The Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen from 1954, which fetched over $53 million.
How many cars were offered for sale by RM Sotheby’s in total sales this year?
Roughly a thousand lots including live auctions and private sales totaling to 1,024 automotive offerings.
This year’s performance marks the continued growth of the collector car market under RM Sotheby’s leadership. The company looks set to maintain its position as one of the leading players in this niche but lucrative industry for years ahead.
