European classic cars have long been admired for their design, engineering, and history. Collectors and enthusiasts often see these vehicles as symbols of luxury and craftsmanship that have stood the test of time.
The value of expensive European classic cars comes from their rarity, heritage, and the prestige associated with iconic brands. Many of these cars continue to attract attention not just for their looks, but for the story and status they carry.
Ferrari 250 GTO
The Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the most famous and valuable European classic cars. Built in the early 1960s, only 36 were produced, making it extremely rare.
It’s known for its sleek design and powerful V12 engine. The car’s value peaked when one sold for $70 million in 2018, setting a record for classic cars.
Collectors often see the 250 GTO as the holy grail of vintage Ferraris due to its history and exclusivity. More details about its value can be found at American Collectors Insurance.
Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic
The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is one of the rarest classic European cars. Only four were ever made, and just two still exist today.
Designed by Jean Bugatti, it features a unique teardrop body and a 210 hp engine. The car could reach speeds of around 124 mph, making it ahead of its time.
Missing models have made this car incredibly valuable, with estimates suggesting it could be worth over €100 million if found. Learn more about the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic.
Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster
The Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster is one of the most iconic classic cars from the 1930s. It was built by special order, making each model unique and highly sought after.
Known for its elegant design and powerful engine, the 540K set a high standard for luxury cars of its time.
In 2012, a 1936 model sold for $11.77 million at auction, marking one of the highest prices ever paid for a pre-World War II car. More details can be found at Gooding & Co’s Pebble Beach auction record.
Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato
The Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato is a classic sports car known for its sleek design and rarity. Only 19 original models were made between 1960 and 1963.
It features a 3.7-liter straight-six engine with 314 horsepower, reaching 0-60 mph in just over six seconds. This lightweight model was built in collaboration with Italian coachbuilder Zagato, making it highly sought after today.
Some examples have sold for over $13 million, reflecting its value among collectors and enthusiasts. More details can be found at the Most Expensive Aston Martins page.
Jaguar XKSS
The Jaguar XKSS is one of the most sought-after classic European cars. Originally built in 1957, only 16 models exist, making it extremely rare.
It was converted from Jaguar’s D-Type race cars, adding a racing pedigree to its charm. Prices for the XKSS have soared, with some expected to fetch upwards of $14 million at auctions like RM Sotheby’s.
Its blend of history and scarcity makes the XKSS stand out among expensive European classics. Learn more about this rare Jaguar here.
Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B is a standout classic European car. Known for its advanced engineering, it featured a 2.9-liter straight-eight engine producing around 180 horsepower. It could reach speeds of up to 110 mph, impressive for its time.
Its elegant design by Touring of Milan is highly regarded. The car remains one of the most expensive prewar cars ever sold at auction, highlighting its lasting appeal and rarity. See more about the 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider.
Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7
The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 debuted in 1973 as a lightweight, race-ready version of the 911. It was designed for Group 4 GT racing, with a larger 2.7-liter engine and several weight-saving features.
Its simple, classic design and performance have made it a favorite among collectors. Simon Kidston, a well-known classic car expert, owns a notable example he refuses to sell. Learn more about this iconic model here.
Ferrari F40
The Ferrari F40 is one of the most iconic European classics. Built from 1987, it combined raw power with lightweight design.
Only 1,315 units were made, making it rare but not extremely limited. It often sells for over £1.9 million, placing it among the top collector cars.
Most models are left-hand drive, and original UK cars are rare. The F40 still holds a strong appeal for enthusiasts and collectors alike. More details can be found on the Ferrari F40 market.
Lamborghini Miura
The Lamborghini Miura is often seen as a pioneer of the modern supercar. Produced between the late 1960s and early 1970s, it combined aggressive design with powerful performance.
One of the rarest versions, the 1972 Miura SV, sold for a record £3.85 million at auction. That price makes it one of the most expensive European classic cars today.
Collectors value its iconic status and limited numbers, with just 150 Miura SVs ever made. This car blends style and rarity, attracting serious attention from enthusiasts.
More details on its recent sales can be found in this article about the £3.85M Lamborghini Miura sale.
Bentley Blower
The Bentley Blower is one of the most iconic classic cars from Europe. Known for its supercharged 4½-litre engine, it was built in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Collectors highly prize these cars, especially original models like the 1931 Bentley 4½-Litre Supercharged Tourer. Some have sold for millions, making them among the most expensive British cars ever, like the Birkin 1929 model that recently sold for over $7.9 million. You can find more details about these rare classics at Car & Classic.