The esteemed motoring festivities at Goodwood are not only celebrated for their vintage fashion and exhilarating races set against a historical estate but also for the impressive auction of significant classic cars valued in the millions. Collaborating with Bonhams Cars, Goodwood commenced its 2025 season with the 82nd Members’ Meeting auction in mid-April, showcasing a diverse selection of vehicles, many of which have compelling histories.

One standout in terms of classic elegance was the 1967 Ferrari 330 GTC Coupé. With exquisite design by Carrozzeria Pininfarina, this beauty, originally painted in maroon and adorned with beige Connolly leather, was first owned by an individual in Rome—a mere distance from its birthplace. After three years in Italy, it made its way to various owners in the USA, returning to Italy in the early 2000s and later to the UK in 2011. Here, it underwent an extensive restoration costing over £150,000, emerging in its current stunning Blu Sera with Grigio leather. This captivating Ferrari fetched £402,000 at the auction.

For those seeking a touch of celebrity history, a striking 1972 Mercedes 600 in Bordeaux Red with a Cognac leather interior was once owned by famed actor Jack Nicholson. This luxurious super saloon was cutting-edge for its time, featuring air suspension and a robust 6.3-liter V8 engine, offering both comfort and power. After Nicholson donated the car to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, it eventually transitioned to private ownership in 2022, realizing a sale price of £126,500, presenting a remarkable deal.

Another famous automobile was the 1975 Ferrari 365 GT4 BB, first owned by rock legend Eric Clapton. This red sports car was reportedly acquired after Clapton was inspired by George Harrison’s similar model. Despite only being driven 43 miles before an accident, the car gained additional fame as it features in the cover art of Clapton’s 1977 album, Slowhand. Repaired and repainted over the years from its original Argento Auteuil to a more familiar Ferrari red, this unique vehicle has remarkably covered less than 15,000 miles in 50 years. With a sale price of £178,250, it is one of only 58 right-hand drive units produced for the UK market, making it a valuable collectible.

In the realm of race cars, a Ford Capri 3.0GXL Group 1 Competition Coupé stood out, boasting a legacy connected to both racing legends and royalty. Driven by Prince Michael of Kent during the 1973 Avon Tour of Great Britain, this car finished in a commendable 16th place. It also saw action at the Österreichring with three-time Formula 1 champion Niki Lauda behind the wheel and was raced by British motorcycle champion Barry Sheene at a celebrity event at Brands Hatch. Selling for £80,500, this race car’s history warrants its price.

For collectors on a budget, nostalgia was well represented by a 1990 Renault 5 GT Turbo, an iconic hot hatch of the ‘90s. As these nostalgic cars regain popularity, this one-owner vehicle from new sold for a promising £26,450.

Looking ahead, Bonhams is already gearing up for its next auction at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July, featuring highlights such as a one-owner 2007 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Coupé with just 770 kilometers on the clock, offered at “no reserve.” While it promises to fetch a significant price, it may not surpass iconic sales from past events, like Juan Manuel Fangio’s Mercedes-Benz W196R Formula 1 car, which sold for £19.6 million in 2013.

For more information on upcoming auctions and classic vehicles, keep an eye on Bonhams’ updates.