Best European Auction Houses for Classic Cars
Explore Europe's premier auction houses for classic cars, featuring insights on fees, specialisations, and notable sales.
Looking to buy or sell a classic car in Europe? Here’s a quick guide to the top auction houses for classic cars: RM Sotheby’s, Bonhams, Artcurial, and Iconic Auctioneers. These names dominate the market with record-breaking sales, global reach, and expertise in high-value collectibles.
Key Highlights:
- RM Sotheby’s: Known for handling prestigious collections and achieving record-breaking sales, with standout events like their Monaco auction in May 2025.
- Bonhams: Europe’s largest classic car auction house, famous for its ties to motoring events like Goodwood and record-setting sales like the Ferrari 250 GTO.
- Artcurial: Specialises in curated auctions in Paris and Monaco, offering a mix of classic cars, art, and luxury goods.
- Iconic Auctioneers: Focuses on personalised services, digital bidding, and high-value classics, with a strong reputation built over 13+ years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Auction House | Specialisation | Notable Sales | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| RM Sotheby’s | Prestigious collections, global reach | 1964 Ferrari 250 LM (£36m) | Digital platform, sealed bids, global events |
| Bonhams | Heritage-rich auctions | Ferrari 250 GTO ($38.12m) | Tied to motoring events, online auctions |
| Artcurial | Curated Paris/Monaco events | Ferrari 275 GTB Aluminium (€2.16m) | Luxury goods alongside cars |
| Iconic Auctioneers | Digital & personalised services | Pagani Zonda Riviera ($5.89m) | Trustpilot-rated, live online bidding |
Whether you're a collector or an investor, these auction houses offer unique opportunities. Keep reading for practical advice on fees, VAT, import duties, and bidding tips.
RM Sotheby's | Paris - 5 February 2025
1. RM Sotheby's
RM Sotheby's, supported by Sotheby's extensive global network, dominated collector car auction sales in 2022, achieving an impressive $925 million in total sales.
In June 2020, the Online Only: European Sale of the Petitjean Collection brought in €19.2 million, with an impressive 91% sell-through rate. Some standout sales included:
- 2020 Porsche 935 'Martini': €1.32 million
- 1939 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet: €770,000
- 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster: €759,000
- 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Volante: €627,000
Looking ahead, RM Sotheby's is set to showcase "The Schumacher Crown Jewel", a two-time Grand Prix-winning F2001, at their Monaco auction in May 2025. This event is being held in collaboration with the F1 Paddock Club. Additionally, they are managing "The Gianni Agnelli Collection" through sealed bids, highlighting their expertise in handling prestigious collections.
"As our first Online Only sale with a European market focus, we are absolutely delighted with this remarkable result. Not only is the sale total exceptional, but to have achieved a 91% sell-through is a major achievement."
- Maarten ten Holder, Head of Europe, RM Sotheby's
Their digital platform enhances the auction experience with features like profile management, lot tracking, and custom alerts. The April Drop includes a Classiche-certified Ferrari F40, a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, and select rare Porsches.
Next, let’s look at Bonhams and how they combine heritage with a diverse selection of offerings.
2. Bonhams
Bonhams' motoring department stands as Europe's largest classic car auction house. It holds the world record for the highest price ever achieved for a car at auction - a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO sold for an astonishing $38.12 million. The company also hosts online auctions, making it easier for collectors around the world to participate.
In addition to its record-breaking sales, Bonhams is closely tied to prestigious motoring events. Key auctions in 2025 include the Spring Stafford Sale at Staffordshire County Showground in April and the Goodwood Festival of Speed Sale in July.
At the April 2021 Monaco Sale, standout lots included a 1991 Isdera Imperator 108i, which fetched €690,000, and a 1968 Aston Martin DB6 Volante, sold for €460,000. These were just a few of the event's impressive offerings.
Bonhams has set marque records for iconic brands such as Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, and Rolls-Royce. Noteworthy sales include a 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder for $4.19 million and a 1996 Bugatti EB110 GT for €1.82 million.
Next, we’ll explore Artcurial’s approach to classic car auctions.
3. Artcurial
Artcurial hosts prominent auctions in Paris and Monaco, showcasing a diverse range of high-end collectibles. These include classic cars, modern art, fine jewellery, luxury watches, and art deco pieces.
In February 2025, during Monaco Auction Week, Artcurial achieved notable sales, including a 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB Aluminium, which fetched an impressive €2,159,600. Alongside this, the event featured auctions for jewellery, important watches, and Hermès luxury bags.
Up next, Iconic Auctioneers offers a fresh approach with its unique blend of experts and auction formats.
4. Iconic Auctioneers
Iconic Auctioneers, previously known as Silverstone Auctions, has been a key player in the world of collector cars, motorcycles, and automobilia for over 13 years. Since 2023, they’ve achieved 30 UK and world-record sale prices, selling more than 5,200 vehicles and generating a total of £270 million globally. Notable sales include a Pagani Zonda Riviera, which fetched an impressive US$5.89 million. This history highlights their expertise in managing high-value, investment-grade classics.
"Our team brings together a wealth of specialist motoring experience and prides itself in offering a transparent, responsive and personal service to all our customers. Connecting vehicles and collectibles with buyers and sellers from around the world." - Iconic Auctioneers
Their auctions are broadcast on their website and YouTube, and they host events at major European motoring gatherings. To ensure precise valuations, they rely on an internal committee to assess classic and competition vehicles, as well as motorcycles.
Iconic Auctioneers boasts an 'Excellent' rating on Trustpilot, based on 980 reviews. Their comprehensive buying and selling guides, along with expert advice, further solidify their reputation as a dependable resource for both collectors and investors.
Up next, we’ll examine how these four auction houses compare in terms of reputation, specialisation, fees, and global presence.
Auction House Comparison
With over 40 years of experience and a presence in 80 offices across 40 countries, RM Sotheby's dominates global sales. In 2025, they achieved standout results: a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM sold for $36 million at Paris Rétromobile, while a 1954 Mercedes‑Benz W196R fetched €51.2 million in Stuttgart. These sales set records for the highest-priced Le Mans–winning racer and Formula 1 Grand Prix car sold at auction.
Bonhams focuses on auctions rich in heritage and has achieved world-record prices for specific marques. Artcurial is known for its carefully curated events in Paris and Monaco, while Iconic Auctioneers combines expert valuations with live digital bidding and personalised service.
For more details on fee structures, bidding processes, and UK import/VAT guidance, refer to earlier sections.
Summary and Recommendations
After comparing Europe's top auction houses, here are some essential steps to help you bid confidently on classic cars.
At RM Sotheby's London, you'll encounter the following fees: a £150 registration fee, a £5,000 credit card hold, buyer's premiums of 15% (+VAT) for amounts up to £200,000 and 12.5% (+VAT) for amounts above that, a £450 (+VAT) per-lot handling charge, and a £30 (+VAT) daily storage fee.
Here are some general precautions to keep in mind, whether you're bidding with RM Sotheby's, Bonhams, Artcurial, or Iconic Auctioneers:
- Understand the rules: Carefully review the Conditions of Business for your chosen auction house. Pay attention to deadlines, inspection rights, and bidder responsibilities (e.g., RM Sotheby's requires full payment by 17:00 GMT on the next business day).
- Do your homework: Check the car's originality, condition, and documentation thoroughly before placing a bid.
- Plan your costs: Factor in buyer's premiums, VAT, and any applicable import duties. For purchases over £5,000, be ready to make a wire transfer payment.
- Post-purchase logistics: Arrange insurance and transport immediately after your purchase. Keep in mind that all lots are sold "as is, where is", with no guarantees or warranties.
