Paris 2025 Auctions - No Reserve Highlights
Hot off the heels of Arizona Car Week and we’re heading across the pond to catch the 2025 Paris auctions by Bonhams|Cars, RM Sotheby’s, and Artcurial. There are some major classic cars on offer at all three of these sales, each of them a little different than the other, but one thing they do have in common is some great classics being offered with no reserve.
The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Lightweight holds a prominent place in the history of Porsche vehicles, renowned for its rarity and appeal among collectors. Created as a special model to qualify for Group 4 racing, it aimed to be lighter, quicker, and more nimble than earlier versions.
This car was equipped with a 2.7-liter flat-six engine that delivered 210 horsepower, incorporating mechanical fuel injection. It could sprint from 0-60 mph in merely 5.6 seconds—a remarkable feat during that era. The “RS” moniker highlighted its ties to racing, while its notable “ducktail” rear spoiler enhanced high-speed stability, marking it as the first production vehicle with an integrated rear wing.
In its Lightweight (M471) form, the car underwent significant weight reduction through thinner body panels, lightweight glass, minimal soundproofing, and racing bucket seats, bringing its weight down to approximately 2,150 lbs (975 kg).
Out of the total 1,580 Carrera RS 2.7s produced, only 200 were made in this Lightweight version, enhancing its scarcity and desirability. Its blend of thrilling driving dynamics, agility due to reduced weight, and achievements in motorsport has solidified its status as one of the most esteemed 911 models ever crafted.
RM Sotheby’s will offer this Carrera RS 2.7 Lightweight at their Paris auction with no reserve from The Curated Collection, so it will definitely be going to a new home. Their estimate is €900,000 – €1,200,000.
Estimate: €900,000 – €1,200,000
Introduced in 1948, the Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchetta was one of Ferrari’s pioneering race cars that laid the groundwork for its future success in motorsports. The name “166” signifies the engine’s displacement of 166 cubic centimeters per cylinder from its 2.0-liter Colombo V12 engine, delivering approximately 140 horsepower. “MM” represents Mille Miglia, commemorating its triumph in this famous Italian endurance race.
Crafted by Carrozzeria Touring, the car’s design—aptly named “Barchetta,” meaning “little boat”—utilized a lightweight aluminum body with Touring’s Superleggera construction, enhancing both agility and aerodynamics. This vehicle achieved significant victories in renowned endurance races like the 1949 Mille Miglia, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Targa Florio, marking Ferrari’s initial wins at these prestigious events.
Between 1948 and 1950, only 25 units were produced, making it an exceedingly rare and prized collector’s item today. Its elegant yet functional design, along with its foundational role in Ferrari’s racing legacy, establishes it as one of the brand’s most iconic early models.
Bonhams|Cars will offer this 1950 Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchetta, chassis no. 0034 M, at their upcoming Paris auction with no reserve. Their pre-sale estimate is €4,000,000 – €6,000,000.
Estimate: €4,000,000 – €6,000,000
The Ferrari 275 GTB stands out as one of the most renowned grand tourers crafted by Ferrari during the 1960s. Debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 1964, it succeeded the Ferrari 250 series and marked a significant advancement in both design and engineering for Ferrari’s road vehicles.
Introduced in 1965, the Ferrari 275 GTB Long Nose was an enhancement of the original model, aimed at correcting aerodynamic issues experienced at high speeds. Designed by Pininfarina and constructed by Scaglietti, this version boasted an elongated front section, refined bodywork, and enhanced handling capabilities. It was equipped with a 3.3-liter Colombo V12 engine, capable of generating up to 300 horsepower, featuring a rear-mounted transaxle and independent rear suspension—a pioneering setup for Ferrari’s road cars.
The vehicle offered by Artcurial, identified by Chassis no. 08151, is among just 93 models manufactured with complete aluminum bodies. This car maintains matching-numbers authenticity and has a well-documented history. It underwent restoration work completed in the 1990s. As part of a notable collection of collector cars scheduled for sale in Paris with no reserve.
Artcurial estimates this will sell for €2,000,000 and €3,000,000.
Estimate: €2,000,000 – €3,000,000