13 Celebrity-Owned Vehicles That Made Auction History
Celebrity-owned vehicles often carry a certain mystique, offering more than just a means of transportation. When these cars go up for auction, they attract the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. The allure of owning a car with a famous history creates an excitement that goes beyond the typical vehicle. From legendary actors to musicians and athletes, some of these cars have sold for astonishing amounts. It’s not just the rarity or design that drives up their value; it’s the story behind them. These cars become symbols of their owners, offering a glimpse into their personal tastes and lifestyles.
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The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California SWB once owned by James Coburn
James Coburn’s Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California is a highly sought-after vehicle due to its rarity and Hollywood ties. Selling for $10,894,400 at a 2008 auction, this particular car stands out due to its unique history. The model is one of only 56 made, making it a rare collector’s item even before considering its celebrity owner.
Coburn’s ownership added a layer of allure, especially given his fame in the 1960s and 1970s. The sale price reflects how celebrity ownership can significantly increase the value of rare vehicles. Enthusiasts and collectors place a premium on cars that have been owned by famous personalities, as it adds an element of history beyond the car itself.
The 1970 Porsche 917K formerly owned by Steve McQueen
The Porsche 917K, famously driven by Steve McQueen in the film Le Mans, fetched $14,000,000 at an auction in 2017. The car’s celebrity provenance significantly increased its value, as McQueen was not only a famous actor but also a racing enthusiast. The Porsche 917K is known for its impressive racing history, winning several high-profile races during the 1960s and 1970s.
McQueen’s association with the car added a new layer of desirability, elevating it from just a racing car to a piece of film and motorsport history. It highlights how movie connections can greatly influence the value of a vehicle. Collectors of both film memorabilia and racing cars found this particular model especially compelling.
The psychedelic Rolls‑Royce Phantom V owned by John Lennon
John Lennon’s custom-painted Rolls-Royce Phantom V, with its famous psychedelic design, sold for $2,300,000 in 2007. This car stands as a symbol of the 1960s counterculture, linking Lennon’s image as a visionary artist with the pop art movement. The Rolls-Royce itself is a symbol of luxury, but Lennon’s modifications made it an even more iconic piece.
The psychedelic paint job was a personal expression of Lennon’s artistic taste, and it added a layer of uniqueness to the already rare vehicle. The sale price reflected both the car’s craftsmanship and its cultural importance. To own a car associated with one of the most influential musicians in history is highly appealing to collectors.
The 1958 BMW 507 once owned by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s 1958 BMW 507 was sold at auction for $16,800,000, making it one of the most expensive cars ever linked to a celebrity. The BMW 507 is already a rare model, with only 252 units built, and Elvis’ ownership only added to its desirability. The car itself is known for its sleek design and powerful V8 engine.
Elvis’ link to the car increased its value dramatically, as fans and collectors alike sought a piece of rock ‘n’ roll history. The combination of rarity and cultural significance made this one of the standout sales in automotive history. For many collectors, a car owned by Elvis is much more than just a vehicle; it’s a piece of music and pop culture history.
The 1974 Stutz Blackhawk purchased by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley also owned a 1974 Stutz Blackhawk, which sold for approximately $50,600 in 2007. The Blackhawk was one of Elvis’ personal favorites, and its luxury appeal made it a standout in his collection. While the Stutz Blackhawk may not have the same level of fame as some of his other cars, its connection to the King of Rock and Roll elevated its status.
The car’s unique style and Elvis’ ownership turned it into a highly sought-after collector’s item. Though not as expensive as some of his other vehicles, the Stutz Blackhawk represents a key part of his luxurious lifestyle. The celebrity provenance adds enough value to make this car desirable to collectors, especially those with a passion for Elvis memorabilia.
The 1997 Ferrari F50 formerly owned by Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart’s 1997 Ferrari F50 sold for $3,500,000, reflecting its celebrity ownership and the popularity of Ferrari as a brand. The Ferrari F50 is known for its incredible performance, combining F1 technology with street-legal capabilities. Stewart’s decision to part with this iconic car only increased its value.
The Ferrari F50 is a limited-production supercar, and with Stewart’s ownership, the car became more than just a high-performance vehicle; it became a celebrity collectible. This auction result shows how the right celebrity owner can help elevate the value of a rare sports car. For collectors, owning a piece of automotive history with such an iconic owner can be incredibly appealing.
The 1993 Mercedes‑Benz 500E owned by Rowan Atkinson
Rowan Atkinson’s 1993 Mercedes-Benz 500E was sold at auction for $90,000. The car, known for its understated luxury and performance, was meticulously maintained, and Atkinson’s ownership added a touch of exclusivity. While not the most expensive vehicle on the list, it is still a desirable item due to its celebrity link.
Atkinson, best known for his role as Mr. Bean, has always had a passion for cars, and his ownership of this vehicle brought additional attention. For enthusiasts of rare luxury cars, having a car owned by a public figure adds a layer of intrigue. This sale exemplifies how celebrity provenance can increase interest, even for more modestly priced cars.
The 1956 Jaguar XKSS associated with Steve McQueen
The 1956 Jaguar XKSS, once owned by Steve McQueen, is one of the most iconic cars linked to the legendary actor. Recently valued at $16,000,000, this car is prized for its racing history and McQueen’s connection to it. The XKSS is a rare vehicle, with only 16 originally built, adding to its allure.
McQueen’s ownership is key to the car’s high market value, as his love for motorsports and his status as a cultural icon make it highly collectible. The sale price of this car proves how powerful the combination of rarity and celebrity ownership can be in the classic car market. For McQueen fans and car collectors alike, this Jaguar represents a significant piece of automotive and Hollywood history.
The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 once driven by Sean Connery in the film Goldfinger
The 1964 Aston Martin DB5, famously driven by Sean Connery in Goldfinger, sold for $6,000,000 at auction. The car’s fame as James Bond’s vehicle gave it an undeniable cultural significance. Its sleek design and powerful engine, combined with its starring role in one of the most iconic spy films of all time, made it one of the most desirable cars in the world.
The bond between the DB5 and James Bond films has only grown stronger over the years, making it a highly collectible item. The combination of the car’s historical importance in cinema and its association with Connery’s Bond character ensures its place in automotive history. For collectors, it is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of cinematic history.
The 1994 Lamborghini Diablo formerly owned by Thomas Muster
The 1994 Lamborghini Diablo, once owned by tennis star Thomas Muster, sold for $320,000 at auction. Although not the most valuable Lamborghini, its link to a famous sports personality gives it added appeal. The Diablo is known for its aggressive styling and powerful V12 engine.
Muster, a former world-renowned tennis player, was known for his love of high-performance cars, and this Diablo was one of his prized possessions. The car’s celebrity provenance brought in a premium over other similar models, showing how athlete-owned cars can attract significant attention. For those who appreciate luxury cars and sports memorabilia, this car provides the perfect combination of both.
The 1959 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz once used by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s 1959 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz was sold at auction for $150,000 in 2007, marking it as one of his iconic vehicles. The car’s prominence comes not only from its beauty but also from its close association with the King of Rock and Roll. The Eldorado Biarritz was one of the most luxurious cars of its time, offering advanced features like air conditioning and a 335-horsepower engine.
Elvis was known for his love of Cadillacs, and this particular car is notable for its pristine condition and its deep connection to his lavish lifestyle. The high market value reflects both the car’s rarity and its profound cultural importance, with collectors keen to own a piece of Elvis history. The car’s luxurious style and association with one of the greatest musical icons of all time make it a highly desirable collector’s item.
The 1970 Ford Capri 3000 GT Mk1 owned by Jamie Oliver
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver owned a rare 1970 Ford Capri 3000 GT Mk1, which sold at auction for £28,000 (approximately $35,000). This model of Ford was a sports coupe that represented the British motoring scene of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Jamie Oliver’s personal ownership added a distinct flair to the car, as his fanbase and car enthusiasts alike sought the opportunity to own a piece of his personal collection.
Though not as high-priced as other celebrity-owned cars, the Capri’s value was driven up by its connection to Oliver. Known for his down-to-earth approach and successful career, Oliver’s car collection, including this one, piqued the interest of collectors looking to own something different. For Jamie’s fans and car lovers alike, the sale served as an opportunity to connect with his unique personal taste.
The 1985 Ford Escort RS Turbo S1 once driven by Diana, Princess of Wales
The Ford Escort RS Turbo S1, which was previously owned by Princess Diana, sold for £650,000 (around $800,000) at an auction in 2022. This particular car stands out not only for its royal connection but also for its rarity, as it was one of the most exciting cars of its time. The Escort RS Turbo was built for performance, and Diana’s ownership made this model a sought-after piece of automotive history.
Princess Diana’s influence as a global figure and her connection to this sporty car created a unique allure for buyers. The combination of luxury and royal association raised the car’s value significantly, with collectors clamoring to own a piece of this royal history. It illustrates how celebrity and royal provenance can elevate even a more mainstream car to a high-value collectible.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.