The Audrain Auction 2025 was one of the most talked-about car events of the year, held as part of the prestigious Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week in Rhode Island. It’s where serious collectors and car enthusiasts come together to bid on some of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world.
This year’s edition was especially historic. Not only did it deliver record-breaking sales, but it also reflected major trends in the collector car market like the rising dominance of hypercars and the continued passion for perfectly restored classics.
When and Where Did the 2025 Audrain Auction Happen
The event took place on October 3, 2025, at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island.
There were around 47 cars offered for sale, and the auction achieved a strong 85–87% sell-through rate, with total sales reaching about $10.3 million. The crowd included seasoned collectors, new bidders, and global buyers joining in online.
It was a perfect blend of glamour, heritage, and competition everything that defines the Audrain experience.
How the Audrain Auction Worked – Explained Simply
- Catalog & Estimates
Before the auction, each car was listed with detailed photos, history, and value estimates. For instance, the star Bugatti was estimated between $4.9 and $5.4 million. - Hybrid Bidding
The sale ran both live and online, allowing global participation. This hybrid model made it easy for bidders from anywhere to join the excitement. - Fees & Final Prices
Winning bidders paid a “buyer’s premium” on top of the hammer price, which is why final figures can look higher. - Diverse Lineup
The cars ranged from early 1900s Rolls-Royces to modern supercars, offering something for every collector era.
Best Highlights: Top Sales and Surprises
| Rank | Car | Sale Price | Why It Stood Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ | $5,725,000 | One of only 30 ever made; the final fully petrol Bugatti hypercar. |
| 2 | 1909 Rolls-Royce 40/50hp Silver Ghost Roi des Belges | $621,000 | Award-winning restoration and one of the best examples in existence. |
| 3 | 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera RS | $390,000 | Lightweight, pure driver’s car that outperformed its estimate. |
| 4 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet | $318,500 | Elegant V8 cruiser, highly sought after in concours condition. |
| 5 | 1965 Jaguar E-Type Reimagined by Helm | $285,500 | Modern craftsmanship meets classic design; beautifully executed restomod. |
Other notable mentions included a rare Mercedes 190E EVO II with only 175 km on the clock, and a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS that drew competitive bidding despite a soft estimate.
The Bugatti’s record-setting sale completely stole the show and symbolized how modern hypercars are now rubbing shoulders with century-old icons in the same collector circles.
Why the 2025 Audrain Auction Was Historic
The “Bugatti Season”
The 2025 auction world has been buzzing with Bugatti fever, and the Chiron Super Sport 300+ became the centerpiece. It was one of the most valuable cars sold publicly in 2025.
Strength Across Eras
While the Bugatti dominated headlines, prewar and postwar cars still sold incredibly well. From Rolls-Royce to Mercedes and Porsche, the variety showed how collectors appreciate craftsmanship across time.
Market Confidence
Grossing over $10 million, the event showed strong buyer confidence despite a cautious global economy. It proved that quality, rarity, and documentation continue to drive top-dollar results.
Rarity Factor
The Chiron Super Sport 300+ has appeared at auction only a handful of times globally, making its sale a true milestone moment for hypercar collectors.
How to Read Auction Results and What They Tell You
- Hammer vs Final Price: Always check whether the total includes buyer’s premium that’s the real amount paid.
- Estimates Are Guidelines: Many cars sell above or below estimates depending on bidding energy and collector interest.
- Provenance Rules: A well-documented history can add hundreds of thousands to a car’s value.
- Condition Is King: Perfect restoration or originality matters more than hype.
- Trend Watching: Compare multiple auctions (like Scottsdale or Pebble Beach) to see if results indicate long-term shifts.
Common Misconceptions About High-End Auctions
- “Every car beats its estimate.” Not true. Some cars underperform, especially if demand softens or condition isn’t perfect.
- “Modern supercars always win.” Classic and prewar cars continue to command loyalty and steady growth.
- “Hammer price is all you pay.” Always budget for premiums, taxes, and logistics.
- “Rarity guarantees success.” Even rare cars can disappoint if provenance or presentation is weak.
Best Tips to Make the Most of Events Like the Audrain Auction
- Study the Catalog Early – Research each lot, read the history, and check prior sale prices.
- Set a Clear Budget – Decide your maximum and stick to it auction adrenaline can get costly.
- Account for Extras – Buyer’s premiums, shipping, and restoration can add big costs.
- Attend If You Can – The atmosphere, car displays, and people you meet make it worth the trip.
- Follow Post-Sale Reports – They help you understand which models are gaining or losing traction.
Latest Updates After the 2025 Audrain Auction
Bonhams has already announced its next major U.S. event the Scottsdale Auction in January 2026. Given the success in Newport, expectations are high.
The market momentum from Audrain, paired with strong performances at Pebble Beach earlier in the year, suggests collectors remain active and confident going into 2026. Hypercars and restored classics will likely remain the stars.
Conclusion
The 2025 Audrain Auction wasn’t just another car sale it was a celebration of automotive artistry across generations. From the record-breaking $5.7 million Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ to timeless beauties like the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, every lot told a story of craftsmanship, performance, and passion.
This year’s results reaffirmed that the collector car market thrives on diversity, quality, and history. Whether you love roaring hypercars or elegant prewar legends, Audrain 2025 had something unforgettable for everyone.
FAQ
When did the 2025 Audrain Auction take place?
On October 3, 2025, during the Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week in Rhode Island.
What was the top-selling car of the event?
A 2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, which sold for $5.725 million including fees.
Why is that Bugatti so valuable?
It’s one of only 30 built and represents the final era of Bugatti’s purely petrol-powered hypercars.
How many cars were offered in total?
Around 47 lots, with an impressive 85–87% sell-through rate.