who owns most expensive car in the world

In a world where luxury and exclusivity reign supreme, the question of who owns most expensive car in the world often sparks our imagination. We picture billionaires, royalty, and tech moguls with garages that look more like museum exhibits. The answer, however, isn’t always straightforward, as the title of “most expensive” can refer to a car’s purchase price at auction or its staggering estimated market value.

When we talk about the priciest cars ever sold, we’re typically looking at rare, historic vehicles from brands like Ferrari, Bugatti, and Rolls-Royce. These aren’t just modes of transport; they are rolling pieces of art, engineering marvels, and solid financial investments. The stories behind these cars and their custodians are often as fascinating as the machines themselves.

The Crown Jewel and Its Royal Owner

For many years, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO held the undisputed title, with a 2018 private sale rumored to be around $70 million. However, the current record-holder for a public sale is the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe. This one-of-two prototype was sold by Mercedes-Benz in May 2022 to a private collector for a breathtaking $143 million. The sale was so discreet that the buyer’s identity was kept a secret for some time.

So, who owns most expensive car in the world?

The proud owner of that record-breaking Mercedes is Sir Michael Kadoorie, a prominent Hong Kong billionaire and businessman. As the chairman of the Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels group, which owns the famous Peninsula Hotels, Sir Michael is a known connoisseur of fine engineering. His acquisition wasn’t just a purchase; it was a historic event, securing a legendary piece of automotive history for his world-class collection.

What Makes a Car So Valuable?

You might wonder what justifies such an astronomical price tag. It’s a perfect storm of factors. Provenance, or the car’s history, is crucial—was it raced by a famous driver? Rarity is another key element; if only a handful were ever made, demand skyrockets. Condition and originality are also paramount. A car with all its original parts and a pristine, documented history will always command a premium over a restored model.

While most of us will only ever dream of seeing such a car in person, they represent the pinnacle of automotive passion. They remind us that cars can be more than just tools; they can be cultural icons and timeless treasures. The story of the world’s most expensive car is a captivating look into a world where history, art, and extreme wealth intersect on four wheels.