For car lovers, collector car auctions are exciting events that provide them the chance to bid on some of the oddest and most expensive vehicles in the world. There are several well-known collector car auctions in the US that draw bids from all over the world.
These auctions are the ideal location to find your dream car, whether you’re looking for a vintage muscle car or a one-of-a-kind exotic one. It’s a nice activity that offers participants wonderful enjoyment, enduring relationships, and amazing vehicles!
You’ll also experience a good dose of competition when you participate in renowned car auctions. Here are a few of the most famous American collector car auctions:
Key Highlights
- Major US collector car auctions include Barrett-Jackson, RM Sotheby’s, and Gooding & Company, offering a wide range of vintage and exotic vehicles.
- Mecum Auctions stands out as one of the largest and most renowned collector car auction companies worldwide.
- Reliable auto transport services like AutoStar Transport Express ensure secure shipment for auction buys, providing peace of mind for collectors.
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Most Famous American Collector Car Auctions: Comparison
| Auction House | Location | Founded | Google Rating | Focus | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barrett-Jackson | Scottsdale, Arizona | 1971 | 4.5 Stars | Classic & Collector Cars | No-reserve auctions, featuring high-value vehicles |
| RM Sotheby's | Toronto, Canada | 2015 | N/A | High-End Collector Cars | Prestigious auctions, Monterey Car Week signature event |
| Gooding & Company | Santa Monica, California | 1991 | 4.5 Stars | High-End Collector Cars | Luxury & Exotic brands like Ferrari, Aston Martin, Bugatti |
| Mecum Auctions | Walworth, Wisconsin | 1988 | 4.7 Stars | Collector Cars | Largest collector car auction company in the world, large-scale events |
| Bonhams | London, England (1793) | N/A | Collector Cars | Established auction house, Pebble Beach signature event during Monterey Car Week | |
| Silver Auctions | Spokane, Washington | 1979 | N/A | Collector Cars & Memorabilia | Specializes in collector cars and automotive memorabilia |
| Russo and Steele | Scottsdale, Arizona | N/A | Collectible Cars | Exclusive auctions, featuring European sports cars & American muscle cars | |
| Auctions America (RM Sotheby's) | N/A | N/A | 4.1 Stars | American Classics | American classic cars, motorcycles, and automobilia |
| Worldwide Auctioneers | Auburn, Indiana | N/A | 4.4 Stars | Classic Cars & Memorabilia | Personalized experience, emphasizes quality over quantity |
| Carlisle Auctions | Carlisle, Pennsylvania | N/A | 3.9 Stars | Collector Vehicles | Family-friendly atmosphere, commitment to customer service |
Notes:
- N/A indicates Google Rating not available.
- This table is a starting point for your research. It is recommended to visit the auction house websites for the latest information and upcoming auctions.
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Top 10 Collector Car Auctions in the USA
1. Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction
Google Rating: 4.5 Stars
One of the biggest and most well-known classic car auctions in the world is Barrett-Jackson. It was established in 1971 and takes place every year in Scottsdale, Arizona.
It is well known that Barrett-Jackson holds no-reserve auctions, which means that regardless of the final selling price, every vehicle on the block will be purchased by the bidder with the highest amount. Some of the most expensive collector automobiles to ever be sold at auction are a result of this.
2. RM Sotheby’s Car Auction
Google Rating: N/A
RM Sotheby’s is a well-known auction house with a focus on classic cars. Its main office is in Toronto, Canada, where it was created in 2015. Every year, RM Sotheby’s conducts a number of auctions, including its signature occasion in Monterey, California, during the renowned Monterey Car Week. RM Sotheby’s specializes in high-end collector cars and holds several prestigious auctions throughout the year.
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3. Gooding & Company
Google Rating: 4.5 Stars
Another well-known auction firm that specializes in collector cars is Gooding & Company. It was established in Santa Monica, California, in 1991, and since then has organized a number of profitable auctions all over the world.
High-end collector cars, such as rare Ferraris, Aston Martins, and Bugattis, and other luxury and exotic brands are popular at Gooding & Company.
4. Mecum Auctions
Google Rating: 4.7 Stars
One of the biggest collector car auction companies in the world is Mecum Auctions. Its headquarters are in Walworth, Wisconsin, where it was established in 1988.
The largest collector automobile auction in the world, Mecum Auctions’ flagship event, is held in Kissimmee, Florida, as one of its many events throughout the year. It is considered one of the largest collector car auction companies in the world, known for its vast selection of cars and large-scale events.
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5. Bonhams Car Auction
Google Rating: N/A
Bonhams is a reputable auction house that specializes in collector cars. Its main office is in London, England, where it was established in 1793.
Throughout the year, Bonhams conducts a number of collector automobile auctions, including their signature event in Pebble Beach, California, during the famous Monterey Car Week. A well-established auction house with a long history and a focus on high-end collector cars, including rare and unique vehicles.
6. Silver Auctions
Google Rating: N/A
Silver Auctions was founded in 1979 (the first auction had 120 cars), Silver Auctions has had one simple goal to be the best collector car auction company in the business. Silver Auctions is based in Spokane, Washington, and specializes in collector cars and automotive memorabilia.
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7. Russo and Steele
Google Rating: N/A
Russo and Steele is a Scottsdale, Arizona-based auction company that specializes in collectible European sports cars and American muscle cars. One of the most exclusive auctions is held by Russo and Steele which this year will feature over 800 European Sports Cars, American Muscle Cars, Hot Rods, Motorcycles, and Customs cars.
8. Auctions America
Google Rating: 4.1 Stars
Auctions America is a division of RM Sotheby’s and specializes in American classic cars, motorcycles, and automobilia. The company is also known for its large-scale auctions and its commitment to quality and customer service.
9. Worldwide Auctioneers
Google Rating: 4.4 Stars
Worldwide Auctioneers is an auction company based in Auburn, Indiana that specializes in classic cars, motorcycles, and automobilia. Although Worldwide Auctioneers may be smaller than some of the other houses mentioned above, the company’s guiding principle is to emphasize quality over quantity.
They work very hard to provide sellers and buyers with a laid-back, enjoyable, and most importantly, personalized experience that is very different from the larger collector car auctions in the USA.
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10. Carlisle Auctions
Google Rating: 3.9 Stars
Carlisle Auctions is an auction company that specializes in collector cars, trucks, motorcycles, and cars. as well as its family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to customer service. The company is also known for its location in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and its affiliation with the Carlisle Events car show.
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Key Things to Know about Collector Car Auctions
Attending a collector car auction can be an exciting opportunity to bid on and potentially own a rare and valuable vehicle. However, it’s important to be well-prepared and informed before you attend. Here are the key things you need to know:
- Research the auction house and the cars being offered: Look for information on their website, in automotive magazines, and in online forums.
- Set a budget: Consider the cost of the car, transportation, insurance, and repairs, and determine how much you’re willing to spend.
- Inspect the cars in person: If possible, inspect the cars before the auction to get a better understanding of their condition.
- Review the auction’s terms and conditions: Familiarize yourself with payment methods, the buyer’s premium, and other fees.
- Arrive early: Give yourself enough time to inspect the cars and register to bid.
- Have necessary documents: Have ID and proof of funding.
- Know the bidding process: Familiarize yourself with the signals used by the auctioneer.
- Get an independent appraisal: Consider getting an appraisal of the car you’re interested in bidding on.
- Bid strategically: Pay attention to other bidders and bid at the right time.
- Have fun: Remember to enjoy the experience and have fun.
By keeping these key considerations in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your next collector car auction and have a successful and enjoyable experience.
Remember: If your bid is chosen as the winning one, you’ll need to be able to transport your car home.
At AutoStar Transport Express, we have more than 17+ years of experience shipping vintage, rare, exotic, and collectible cars for collectors of the highest standard.
We provide enclosed auto transport and speedy car shipment, ensuring that your auction buy is immediately picked up and that it will be well secured from traffic. Just take your hand off the keys, that’s all.
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Conclusion
Attending a collector car auction can be a thrilling experience, offering a chance to own a one-of-a-kind car. This article explored some of the most reputable collector car auctions in the USA, including Barrett-Jackson, RM Sotheby’s, and Mecum Auctions. Remember to do your research, set a budget, and be prepared before attending an auction to maximize your chances of a successful and enjoyable experience. So, gear up for the thrill of the hunt and who knows, you might just drive away with your dream car!
Mark Dugger
Born and raised in Southern California, grew up in an athletic environment where he excelled at football, baseball, wrestling, golf, skiing, and water skiing. He chose computers as his professional calling, accepting the position of Systems Officer for a prominent cruise line. For the next ten years, he would circle the globe multiple times, visiting over 100 countries.Mark joined AutoStar Transport Express just 1 year after it was created. He is one of the pillars the company was built on. He started off as a coordinator, he excelled though the years with his hard work and dedication. His job performance not only grew his career but our company and as a whole. Mark now holds the position of operations manager overseeing the engine that makes our company run.
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