Retromobile 2025: the auctions.
February 12, 2025
Paris continues to establish itself as one of the most important markets for classic and collectible cars. During the 2025 edition of Rétromobile, auctions were among the most eagerly awaited moments for collectors and enthusiasts, recording significant results with a total exceeding €110 million.
Artcurial. - The auction house organized two main sessions: the "Vente Officielle" on February 7 and a special sale on February 8, dedicated to the prestigious Paul-Émile B. Collection, which included cars, motorcycles, an airplane, and various automotive memorabilia. The "Vente Officielle" featured a selection of 120 classic cars. Among the most significant lots, two 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB and GTB/Aluminum were sold for €1.975 million and €1.85 million, respectively. A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" was auctioned for €1.2 million. In addition to these high-profile models, the auction also included vehicles accessible to a broader range of collectors. A special highlight was the 1996 Ferrari 550 Maranello, formerly owned by Michael Schumacher, which sold for €225,000.
RM Sotheby’s. - At the auction held at the Carrousel du Louvre, a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM, chassis no. 5893, set a new record. The car, which won the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans with the North American Racing Team, was sold for $34.88 million, becoming one of the most expensive Ferraris ever sold at auction.
Bonhams. - The auction at the Palais Royal totaled over €18 million. Notable sales included a 1950 Ferrari 166 MM, previously owned by Giannino Marzotto, which sold for €2.817 million, and a 1954 Ferrari 555 Super Squalo—a Formula 1 single-seater driven by legends such as Mike Hawthorn and Nino Farina—which fetched €1.983 million. The 1954 Autobleu 750 Mille Miles (Carrosserie G.T.R.), chassis no. 195475, was among the highlights of the Automotive Masterpieces featured at the auctions. A one-off alloy prototype that competed in the 1954 and 1955 Mille Miglia, as well as the 1956 12 Hours of Reims, the car was offered by Bonhams and sold for €368,000, including premium.
The Rétromobile 2025 auctions confirmed the enduring interest and passion for classic cars. The results were positive, though many cars, even highly significant ones, sold for lower-than-expected prices. A noteworthy trend was the "massive" acquisition of cars, which, while interesting, required only a limited financial commitment to purchase. The variety of lots offered satisfied both major collectors and emerging enthusiasts, further consolidating the event's importance.
