For decades, Barrett-Jackson has been the gold standard in the world of collector car auctions. Renowned for its record-breaking sales, glamorous atmosphere, and incredible selection of vintage and rare cars, the auction house has seen some truly iconic vehicles cross the block. From Hollywood legends to automotive masterpieces, Barrett-Jackson is where car history is made. So, what are some of the most memorable, jaw-dropping cars to ever be sold at this legendary event? Let’s take a look behind the wheel at a few iconic vehicles that have made history at Barrett-Jackson.
1. The 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500 Super Snake
When we talk about iconic cars, few hold a place in automotive history like the Shelby Mustang. The 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake is a true legend, and when it hit the Barrett-Jackson auction block in 2019, it caused a stir. With just two of these Super Snakes ever made, the car is a rarity. Carroll Shelby, the man behind the iconic Shelby brand, personally drove this particular car to develop the famous “Super Snake” performance upgrades. In 2019, this piece of muscle car history sold for an astounding $2.2 million, cementing its status as one of the most expensive Mustangs ever sold.
The story behind the Super Snake is just as legendary as the car itself. Originally intended to be a high-performance vehicle for Goodyear Tire, the car features a unique 427 V8 engine and a race-inspired suspension. The fact that it’s one of only two ever built makes it not only desirable but also a true treasure in the world of classic cars.
2. The 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupe
Sometimes, the beauty of a car isn’t just in its performance but in its design. The 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Teardrop Coupe, sold at Barrett-Jackson in 2015, is a prime example of automotive art. Known for its sleek, aerodynamic design and curvaceous body, this car was a showstopper when it crossed the block.
This particular Talbot-Lago, one of only 14 built, sold for an eye-watering $13.4 million, making it one of the most expensive cars ever sold at Barrett-Jackson. Its stunning design, luxurious details, and rarity drew in bidders from around the world, and it remains one of the finest examples of pre-war automotive craftsmanship. If the cars from this era could talk, this one would have stories of glamorous European roadways and the finest engineering of its time.
3. The 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C
For many car collectors, Ferrari is the ultimate brand—a symbol of speed, elegance, and exclusivity. The 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C, sold for $2.5 million at Barrett-Jackson in 2014, is one such example. With its sleek body, powerful V12 engine, and stunning performance, the 275 GTB was designed to compete at the highest level of motorsport. The example sold at Barrett-Jackson had a storied history, with just two owners before it was auctioned off, further enhancing its desirability.
The Ferrari 275 GTB/6C is considered one of the finest examples of Ferrari’s craftsmanship from the 1960s, and the car’s beautiful lines, exceptional engineering, and rarity make it a coveted addition to any collection. Selling for over $2.5 million, this Ferrari’s sale helped solidify Barrett-Jackson as the place to acquire some of the most sought-after cars in the world.
4. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing
One of the most famous cars to have ever sold at Barrett-Jackson is the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL is widely regarded as one of the most stunning cars ever made, with its signature gullwing doors and cutting-edge technology for its time. This particular car, sold at Barrett-Jackson in 2011 for $1.2 million, was a pristine example of the 300SL, which was once the fastest production car in the world.
The 300SL’s history is just as remarkable as its design. Originally developed as a race car, it was soon adapted for street use, becoming one of the most iconic cars of the 1950s. The sale of this vehicle at Barrett-Jackson highlighted the growing appeal of classic European cars, and the demand for the 300SL continues to this day.
5. The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
For fans of American muscle, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is one of the most coveted cars in the world. With only 69 of these cars built, the ZL1 represents the pinnacle of Chevrolet’s performance engineering during the muscle car era. In 2016, a ZL1 with its original drivetrain and low mileage was sold at Barrett-Jackson for $1.2 million, setting a new record for a Camaro.
The ZL1 was created as a special, race-oriented version of the Camaro, and it became a legend due to its lightweight design, powerful engine, and limited production. The fact that it remained in such pristine condition made this particular car even more desirable, and its sale at Barrett-Jackson was a momentous occasion for muscle car fans.
6. The 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante
No list of iconic cars sold at Barrett-Jackson would be complete without mentioning the 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Atalante, which sold for $10.34 million in 2010. With its ultra-rare design and exceptional craftsmanship, this Bugatti is considered one of the finest examples of automotive engineering in history. Only 17 of these cars were ever produced, and the Atalante version is among the most sought after.
This specific Type 57SC Atalante, with its elegant coachwork and impeccable condition, attracted top-tier collectors from all over the world. The sale not only set a new record for a Bugatti but also underscored the continuing appeal of pre-war automobiles and the ongoing reverence for Bugatti’s legacy in automotive history.
Conclusion
Barrett-Jackson isn’t just about buying and selling cars; it’s about preserving and celebrating automotive history. From the high-powered American muscle cars to the rare European classics, each car that crosses the Barrett-Jackson auction block has its own story to tell. Whether it’s a Shelby Mustang with a rich racing pedigree, a Ferrari that embodies Italian performance, or a Mercedes-Benz that represents the pinnacle of 1950s engineering, Barrett-Jackson has been the home for some of the most iconic cars ever sold.
These vehicles don’t just represent great cars; they symbolize the craftsmanship, innovation, and passion that has driven the automotive world forward for over a century. Each sale at Barrett-Jackson is more than just an exchange of money—it’s a moment in history, and for many