For car lovers, collector car auctions offer an exciting opportunity to bid on some of the world’s rarest and most valuable cars. Popular auctions across the U.S. attract bidders from everywhere, creating a lively and thrilling atmosphere.
Attending a collector car auction isn’t just about buying a car; it’s a unique experience filled with passion and excitement. You’ll learn about the process, meet fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy the competition.
Whether you want to add a classic car to your collection or just want to experience the thrill of bidding, these events promise unforgettable moments and the chance to take home a piece of automotive history.
Top U.S. collector cars auctions like Barrett-Jackson, RM Sotheby’s, Gooding & Company, and the renowned Mecum Auctions feature a wide array of vintage and exotic vehicles.
Understanding the auction process helps you bid wisely, avoid mistakes, and maximize your investment.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Thinking about buying or selling a collector car? Understanding the auction process is crucial. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the essential steps involved:
1. Preparation
Sellers should take time to get their vehicles ready for auction. This involves necessary repairs, thorough cleaning, and compiling important documentation, such as maintenance records and vehicle history.
2. Registration
To participate, sellers must register their cars with the auction house. They need to provide key information, including the make, model, year, condition, and any distinctive features. This data is vital for crafting an appealing auction catalog.
3. Promotion
Auction houses utilize various marketing strategies to promote the event. This includes online advertising, social media outreach, and traditional marketing methods. Effective promotion plays a significant role in attracting a wide range of potential buyers.
4. Inspection
Before bidding begins, buyers usually have the chance to inspect the vehicles. Many auctions offer a preview day, allowing potential bidders to closely examine the cars and evaluate their condition.
5. Bidding
On auction day, cars are showcased individually. Bidders raise their paddles to place offers, while an auctioneer oversees the process. Some auctions adopt a no-reserve format, ensuring that every vehicle is sold to the highest bidder, regardless of the final price.
6. Sale
After the bidding ends, the highest bidder wins the vehicle. Payment arrangements are made at this point, typically requiring a deposit to secure the purchase.
7. Transfer of Ownership
Once payment is finalized, ownership is transferred to the buyer. The auction house provides all necessary documentation for registration and title transfer, streamlining the process.
8. Post-Auction Services
Many auction houses offer additional services, such as transportation assistance for buyers to get their new vehicles home. They may also provide support for any issues that arise after the auction.
Essential Tips for Attending a Collector Car Auction
Classic car auctions can be exhilarating, but they can also feel overwhelming if you’re new to the experience. Here’s what you need to know before diving in:
Most classic car auctions in the U.S. offer online registration. Avoid the hassle of long lines on auction day by pre-registering to bid.
Research the auction house and the cars being offered. Leading auction houses provide extensive information, including photographs, details about the engine and transmission, VIN/serial numbers, and significant historical facts.
Consider the cost of the car, transportation, insurance, and repairs, and determine how much you’re willing to spend.
When budgeting for your auction experience, remember to include additional costs, such as Auction house fees (often around 10%), Local, state, and federal taxes, Auto transport expenses, and Insurance costs.
If you have your eye on a particular classic car, it’s wise to get an insurance quote ahead of the auction.
By staying until the end, you’ll face less competition as the crowd diminishes, increasing your chances of winning a car at a lower bid.
Keep your emotions in check until you’ve successfully secured it.
Familiarize yourself with the signals used by the auctioneer. Pay attention to other bidders and bid at the right time.
Winning a classic or collector car is just the beginning; you’ll also need to arrange for its transportation home. Consider options like Autostar Transport Express, which specializes in moving collector and classic cars safely and securely. Enclosed transport ensures your vehicle arrives in pristine condition.
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.
Shipping Your New Collector Car
Attending a classic car auction is one of the most thrilling ways to discover your dream vehicle or expand your collection. Whether you’re aiming to buy one car or fill your garage, AutoStar Transport Express, can facilitate a smooth shipping process for your winning bids.
At AutoStar Transport Express, we have more than 17+ years of experience shipping vintage, antique, 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.
Choosing the Right Auction House
Consider its reputation and specialization in the types of vehicles desired. Also find out their fee structure, marketing reach, and auction format, online, or hybrid. Inspect customer support and inspection opportunities. Also, check their previous success rate for sold vehicles. And don’t forget networking opportunities and the location of the auction house. As such, evaluation for these factors would just lead you to the most suitable auction house around that can satisfy your aims in achieving a successful experience.
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!
Frequently Asked Question
What is the biggest car auction in the USA?
The Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car Auction is the largest in the world, annually attracting several thousand cars and bidders. The venue is Osceola Heritage Park, and it hosts an auction with several varieties of vehicles, starting from classic muscle cars to exotic sports cars.
What is the best auction house for classic cars?
For over 40 years, RM Sotheby’s has continued to lead the global collector car auction industry with unparalleled capabilities, expertise, and resources. Making us the preeminent market maker of high-quality collector cars and collections regardless of size or complexity.
What state has the best car auction?
Arguably the largest collector automobile auction in the world, Mecum Auctions holds its flagship event in Kissimmee, Florida, with many events throughout the year. Being one of the most significant collector car auction companies in the world, it has a huge variety of cars and extensive events.
What type of auctions are best?
Absolute auctions usually attract the most bidders. The seller’s risk in an absolute auction is higher than in the other auction types, but so could be the reward.
What is the best value reverse auction?
In a Best Value Reverse Auction, sellers supply proposed solutions and are rated on both price and non-price factors. The sellers acquire the business from the buyer by being the highest-scored solution. How is a Best Value Reverse Auction Conducted? event, including initial pricing.
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.
