“The Best Classic Car Auctions to Attend in 2024”
Classic car auctions are thrilling events for collectors and enthusiasts, where some of the most valuable and rare vehicles are sold to the highest bidder. Whether you’re a seasoned collector looking for a unique addition to your garage or a first-time buyer eager to explore the world of vintage automobiles, attending a high-profile classic car auction can be an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best classic car auctions to attend in 2024.
Outline of the Article
- Introduction
- What Makes a Classic Car Auction Stand Out?
- Why Attend a Classic Car Auction in 2024?
- Top Classic Car Auctions to Attend in 2024
- Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
- RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction
- Gooding & Co. Pebble Beach Auction
- Mecum Auctions Kissimmee
- Bonhams London Auction
- Silverstone Auctions at Silverstone Classic
- Virtual Auctions: A Growing Trend in 2024
- Online Classic Car Auctions You Should Know About
- What to Expect at These Auctions
- The Atmosphere and Experience
- Types of Cars You’ll Find
- Bidding Process and Auction Fees
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What Makes a Classic Car Auction Stand Out?
Classic car auctions are known for their high-energy atmosphere, where rare, vintage cars go under the hammer and can fetch eye-watering prices. What makes an auction stand out is the quality of cars available, the reputation of the auction house, and the overall experience they offer bidders. Auctions like Barrett-Jackson, RM Sotheby’s, and Gooding & Co. offer an extensive selection of cars that attract top collectors and enthusiasts from all over the world.
Why Attend a Classic Car Auction in 2024?
Attending a classic car auction in 2024 offers exciting opportunities to see rare and vintage cars that may never come up for sale again. With the continued growth in the classic car market and the increasing interest in automotive history, 2024 promises to be an exceptional year for car collectors looking to make investments or simply indulge in the love of classic cars.
Top Classic Car Auctions to Attend in 2024
Here are some of the best-known and most prestigious classic car auctions taking place in 2024:
2.1 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
Barrett-Jackson is one of the biggest names in the world of classic car auctions. Known for its grand scale and exciting atmosphere, the Scottsdale event is one of the most anticipated in the classic car calendar. It features a wide range of vehicles, from vintage muscle cars to rare European classics.
Why Attend?
- A huge selection of cars from all over the world.
- Celebrity appearances and the thrill of live bidding.
- A wide range of vehicles for all budgets, from affordable classics to multi-million-dollar rarities.
- Live television broadcasts and global exposure.
Date: January 2024
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
2.2 RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction
RM Sotheby’s is known for hosting one of the most prestigious auctions in the classic car world, held annually in Monterey, California. The auction is renowned for showcasing world-class cars and is often where some of the most expensive and sought-after vehicles are sold.
Why Attend?
- Exclusive, high-end cars, including rare Ferraris, Porsches, and Lamborghinis.
- A chance to witness record-breaking sales and iconic cars.
- Hosted during the Monterey Car Week, one of the biggest events for classic car enthusiasts.
Date: August 2024
Location: Monterey, California
2.3 Gooding & Co. Pebble Beach Auction
Another iconic auction that takes place during the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the Gooding & Co. auction is known for its exceptional selection of vintage cars and rare collectibles. If you’re looking for high-quality cars and an elite crowd, this auction is a must-visit.
Why Attend?
- High-caliber cars, including historical racing cars and luxury classics.
- The auction’s location during Pebble Beach makes it a key event in the classic car world.
- Expert appraisers and restoration experts available on-site.
Date: August 2024
Location: Pebble Beach, California
2.4 Mecum Auctions Kissimmee
Mecum Auctions hosts one of the largest classic car auctions in the world in Kissimmee, Florida. With thousands of cars available, from muscle cars to exotics, this event draws both serious collectors and first-time buyers. The auction offers a fun, fast-paced atmosphere that makes it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Why Attend?
- A massive selection of vehicles across all categories.
- Known for its high-energy atmosphere and excitement.
- Wide price range — from affordable to high-end vehicles.
Date: January 2024
Location: Kissimmee, Florida
2.5 Bonhams London Auction
Bonhams is one of the oldest auction houses in the world, and its classic car auctions are no exception when it comes to showcasing premium vehicles. The London auction is known for featuring rare and valuable automobiles, including some of the most sought-after European classics.
Why Attend?
- Exclusive European classics and vintage cars.
- A mix of high-end automobiles and historic vehicles.
- Hosted in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Date: December 2024
Location: London, United Kingdom
2.6 Silverstone Auctions at Silverstone Classic
The Silverstone Classic is one of the largest classic car festivals in the world, and Silverstone Auctions runs the auction at the event. The cars available at this auction span multiple eras, with a strong focus on British-made vehicles. It’s the perfect event for anyone with a passion for vintage British cars.
Why Attend?
- Focus on British-made cars and motorsport history.
- The backdrop of the famous Silverstone racing circuit.
- A great mix of modern and classic vehicles.
Date: July 2024
Location: Silverstone, United Kingdom
Virtual Auctions: A Growing Trend in 2024
While traditional live auctions remain popular, virtual classic car auctions are becoming an increasingly significant part of the industry. In 2024, expect more online platforms to host major auctions, allowing bidders from around the world to participate without leaving their homes.
Online Classic Car Auctions You Should Know About
Platforms like Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, and Collector Car Auctions have become major players in the virtual auction world. These online auctions offer the same excitement as their in-person counterparts but provide the convenience of remote participation.
Why Attend an Online Auction?
- Accessibility from anywhere in the world.
- Detailed car descriptions and high-quality photos and videos.
- The ability to watch the auction in real time and participate remotely.
What to Expect at These Auctions
Whether you attend a physical or online classic car auction, there are certain expectations you should have to make the most of the experience.
The Atmosphere and Experience
At in-person events, expect a vibrant, high-energy environment with a lot of competition. The auctioneer will lead the bidding, and you’ll have the chance to interact with fellow bidders. Whether you’re sitting in a room or participating online, you’ll experience the thrill of watching cars go under the hammer.
Types of Cars You’ll Find
From muscle cars to luxury classics, each auction will feature a variety of cars. Some auctions specialize in particular marques or eras, while others, like Mecum or Barrett-Jackson, offer more variety. Make sure to research which cars will be up for bid to prepare accordingly.
4.3 Bidding Process and Auction Fees
The bidding process usually follows a set pattern where the auctioneer calls out the opening bid and bidders raise their paddles (or click buttons in online auctions) to place bids. Keep in mind that most auctions charge a buyer’s premium, which is added to the winning bid. Always factor this into your budget.
Conclusion
Attending a classic car auction in 2024 offers plenty of exciting opportunities to discover rare vehicles and engage in a thrilling auction environment. Whether you’re at a high-profile event like RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction or enjoying the charm of a virtual auction, you’ll be part of a global community of car enthusiasts. With the right preparation, you can find the perfect classic car to add to your collection.
FAQs
- What is a buyer’s premium at classic car auctions?
The buyer’s premium is an additional percentage added to the winning bid price. It typically ranges from 5% to 10% but can vary by auction house. - Are virtual classic car auctions legitimate?
Yes, reputable platforms like Bring a Trailer and Cars & Bids host legitimate and secure auctions with detailed descriptions and video presentations of the cars. - Do I need to be an expert to attend a classic car auction?
While being knowledgeable helps, anyone can attend a classic car auction. Just be sure to do your research and understand the cars you’re interested in. - Can I bid on a car without attending the auction in person?
Yes, many classic car auctions offer absentee or online bidding options, allowing you to place bids remotely. - What types of classic cars are most likely to sell at these auctions?
Classic muscle cars, luxury European cars, rare vintage automobiles, and historically significant racing cars are some of the most sought-after at these events.
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