For some, visiting an auto show is a great opportunity to check out antique cars and admire the work others have done in restoring a vehicle. For many others, however, such events are a time to bid on their dream car. When rare collector cars are involved, auctions can get extremely competitive. Here’s a look at a few of the most expensive vehicles ever sold at an auction.

5 of the Most Expensive Auto Show Auction Cars Ever

1. 1962 Shelby^® Cobra 260 CSX2000

Shelby Cobras are already highly sought after by many collectors, but the original “CSX2000” model takes the top prize. The first Cobra ever produced, it was initially used as a press car as Shelby tried to gain attention for its brand. The vehicle sold at auction for $13.75 million.

2. 1967 Chevrolet^® Corvette L88

Only 20 Corvette L88s were ever produced, making this lineup an appealing purchase for many collectors. With a 560 horsepower engine, these cars don’t just look great, but they also deliver racetrack-level performance. In 2014, one L88 vehicle sold for $3.85 million.

3. 1954 Pontiac^® Bonneville Special Motorama Concept Car

Only two of these concept cars were ever made by Pontiac, and though it was never sold to the public, many view it as a precursor to the muscle car craze that dominated the 1960s. Its uniquely slick design helped it sell for over $3 million at an auction in 2006.

4. 1931 Duesenberg^® Model J Coupe

One of the world’s earliest luxury automobiles, the Model J was unique in its use of both two-door coupe bodywork and a long wheelbase. A brushed aluminum top completed the look by making the car look like a convertible. Though most Model J’s sell for around $3 million, one vehicle sold for $10.34 million in 2011.

5. 1968 Ford^® GT40 Gulf Coupe

A unique history can drive up a car’s value. A Ford GT40 that had been used in the filming of Steve McQueen’s “Le Mans” and also driven by racing drivers David Hobbs, Dick Thompson, and others sold for $11 million in 2012.

Are you looking for a great opportunity to buy or sell a collector car? The biannual Charlotte AutoFair in Mecklenburg County, NC draws over 10,000 attendees, making this auto show an absolute must for car enthusiasts. While advance tickets are not available, you can learn more about the show by visiting them online. Call (704) 841-1990 today to speak with a friendly representative.