10. Rolls-Royce 10hp Two-Seater

Rolls-Royce 10hp Two-Seater

Bonhams

Price: $7.25 million

This price makes the veteran vehicle not only the most ever paid for a pre-1905 car, but also the most for a Rolls-Royce. The hammer dropped at this record breaking price at Bonhams’ annual Olympia Motoring Sale in London on December 3rd, 2007

9. 1929 Mercedes-Benz 38/250 SSK

1929 Mercedes-Benz 38/250 SSK

Bonhams

Price: $7.4 million

This Mercedes-Benz SSK was one of thirty three built and was sold at a Bonhams auction in Sussex in 2004. It is one of the very few Mercedes that survived the 20s and 30s without help from restoration, a true original Benz.

1962 Ferrari 330 TRI/LM Testa Rossa

1962 Ferrari 330 TRI/LM Testa Rossa

RM Auctions

Price $9.2 million

The particular model is the last Ferrari race car to have its engine in the front, and it was driven by Phil Hil and Oliver Glendebien at the Le Mans in 1962. It was sold in 2007 at an RM Auction held at Ferrari’s assembly facility in Maranello, Italy.

6. 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Roadster

1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial Roadster

RM Auctions

Price: $9.68 million

Of the twenty-five 540 K Spezial Roadsters, only a limited few were created in the long tail style with a cover over the single spare tire recessed into the rear deck, one of which is the car offered here. It is believed only three are known to exist and such cars rarely, if ever, come to market, much less publicly. This Spezial sold at RM Auction's 2011 Monterey event.

4. 1931 Duesenberg Model J Long-Wheelbase Coupe

1931 Duesenberg Model J Long-Wheelbase Coupe

Gooding & Company

Price: $10.34 million

Commissioned by one of California’s wealthiest and most eccentric residents, this Duesenberg Model J Coupe was conceived without concern for expense, practicality or contemporary trends. In its specification and detail, it shows no regard for mass consumption. In its scale and power, it surpasses the era’s grandest expectations and its survival is due to the efforts of just five protective caretakers. This sold at Gooding & Company's 2011 Monterey auction.

5. 1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner Coupe

1931 Bugatti Royale Kellner Coupe

Christies' Auction

Price: $9.7 million

This fifteen foot Bugatti Royale is one of only six that were built. Its huge 12.7-litre engine was originally meant for use in aircraft, and it is one of the largest ever fitted into a car. This example was sold in 1987 during a Christie’s auction at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

3. 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder

1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder

RM Auctions

Price: $10.9 million

This 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder was formerly owned by Oscar winning actor, James Coburn. U.K. radio personality Chris Evans won with the bid at the RM Auction “Ferrari Leggenda e Passione” in Maranello, Italy on May 18, 2008.

Classic High Class II

2. 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

RM Auctions

Price: $12.2 million

After being in the number one spot for 2 years, this 1957 Ferrari 250 TR got bumped off the number one spot by it's predecessor. It sold for $12.2 million at RM’s Leggenda e Passione event in Maranello, Italy. This TR is one of 22 pontoon-fendered sports racers that were built in 1957 and 1958, but the car’s incredible racing history puts it far beyond others. With breathtaking looks, fantastic performance and handling, this is a true connoisseur’s Ferrari.

Classic high Class Car

1. 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Prototype

1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Prototype

Gooding & Company

Price: $16.39 million

The development of the Ferrari 250 TR began in early 1957 with the car pictured here. 0666 TR is the First 250 Testa Rossa built. It has an eight-year international racing history at premier venues and has been driven by the greatest names in motor sport. In 2011 at Gooding & Company's Monterey auction, it won the honored title of being the most expensive car ever sold at auction.

MISCELLANEOUS THINGS TO LOOK FOR.

• Inspect tires for correct size/tread depth/pressure.
• Do all the tires match?
• Does the spare match?
• Inspect luggage compartment for rust.
• Is there a jack or tools?
• Check windshield wipers condition.

If at any time during your inspection the seller tries to point you in a different area of the car or wants you to take their “word” that something is in good working condition, it’s an important signal to look more closely. Only when you have completed a check list like this will you have a good understanding of the car’s imperfections.
Make copious notes on everything and discuss what you find with a trusted mechanic. He can then provide a close estimate on any repair costs to assist in your negotiations with the seller.

It’s time to open up the hood.

• Check for oil leaks
• Inspect air filter for oil.
• Check the oil for water/sludge/clarity/level.
• Inspect timing belt/chain.
• Check all fluid levels.
• Inspect belts for wear and fraying.
• Check hoses.
• Inspect wiring.
• Inspect engine mounts.
• Look for water pump leaks.
• Pressure test radiator cap.
• Look for fuel pump leaks.
• Inspect fuel filter.