Do you like classic cars and the thrill of discovering forgotten treasures? Then get ready to be amazed by our list of the top 10 rarest barn finds! These hidden gems were found in the most unexpected places, from abandoned garages to forgotten barns in the middle of nowhere. Each has a unique story, from the rarest and most sought-after models to those with fascinating histories and unique features.
Whether you’re a collector, a history buff, or love the thrill of the hunt, these barn finds will surely capture your imagination. So buckle up and get ready to explore the incredible world of classic cars and the thrill of the hunt for the rarest and most valuable finds.
9. 1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS
Status: Restored
Location Found: Backyard
Year Found: 1970s
Image source: Sports Car Market
In the 1970s, a remarkable barn find occurred when a rare 1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS was discovered in the most unexpected location—a backyard. This particular model of the Dino is considered exceptionally rare, making the find even more remarkable. Left to the elements and hidden for years, the neglected beauty was covered in a thick layer of dust and surrounded by overgrown foliage.
With its distinctive mid-engine design and elegant lines, this barn find was an instant treasure for any car enthusiast. Recognizing its historical significance and potential, a dedicated individual took on the ambitious task of restoring this once-forgotten gem. Countless hours of meticulous work were invested, from sourcing authentic parts to reviving its engine.
Did you know?
Its remarkable journey from a backyard relic to a beautifully restored classic is a captivating story in the world of automotive history.
8. 1968 Ford Mustang GT “Bullitt”
Status: Restored
Location Found: Mexican scrap yard
Year Found: Unspecified
Image source: Carscoops
This particular vehicle, 1968 Ford Mustang GT “Bullitt”, gained fame from the iconic car chase scene in the 1968 film “Bullitt,” starring Steve McQueen. The car was driven by McQueen in the movie and became an instant legend. After the film’s release, the whereabouts of the original Bullitt Mustang were unknown for many years.
It was eventually discovered in 2017 in a Mexican scrap yard, where it had been hidden away for decades. The car was in rough condition, showing signs of neglect and modifications. Ford then acquired the car, and a decision was made to restore it to its original state.
Did you know?
The Bullitt Mustang’s authenticity was confirmed through meticulous research and analysis, including identifying unique features and matching vehicle identification numbers.
7. 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400
Status: Restored and sold
Location Found: Barn in France
Year Found: Unspecified
Image source: Supercars.net
The Miura is regarded as one of the most beautiful and groundbreaking sports cars ever produced. After its discovery, the 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 underwent a restoration process to return it to its former glory. Restoring classic cars involves meticulously refurbishing the vehicle, often including engine repairs, bodywork, interior refurbishment, and bringing it back to factory specifications.
Once the restoration was completed, the car was ready for auction. In 2019, it was sold for an impressive €560,000. Such auctions provide a platform for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire rare vehicles that have been meticulously restored and preserved.
Did you know?
Its mid-engine design and stunning aesthetics have made it an automotive icon.
6. 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona
Status: Sold
Location Found: Barn
Year Found: Unspecified
Image source: American Muscle Car Museum
The 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona is another notable barn find in the automotive world. It was put up for auction and was sold for $90,000 at a Mecum auction. The sale of the restored Charger Daytona exemplifies the value that collectors place on rare and iconic vehicles.
This vehicle was a special edition of the Dodge Charger, specifically built for NASCAR racing. It was designed to improve aerodynamics and increase the car’s top speed on the race track. The Daytona featured a distinctive aerodynamic nose cone, a rear wing, and a sloped rear window.
Did you know?
The production of the Charger Daytona was limited, with only 503 units produced.
5. Porsche 901
Status: Sold
Location Found: Barn in Brandenburg, Germany
Year Found: Unspecified
Image source: Wikipedia
The Porsche 901, later renamed the Porsche 911 due to a naming conflict with Peugeot, is an iconic sports car with a special place in automotive history. The 901 was the successor to the Porsche 356 and introduced several innovative features that set the stage for the legendary Porsche 911 lineage.
Upon its discovery in the barn, the Porsche 901 underwent an extensive restoration to restore it to its original splendor. The rarity and historical importance of this barn find garnered considerable interest. The fact that it was eventually sold for a price exceeding €100,000 further illustrates the high value and strong demand placed on this exceptional and scarce vehicle.
Did you know?
As one of the earliest iterations of the Porsche 911, it holds a special place in the hearts of Porsche enthusiasts and collectors.
4. 1950 Ferrari 166MM Barchetta
Status: Sold
Location Found: Arizona
Year Found: Unspecified
Image source: Palm Beach Customs
The Ferrari 166MM Barchetta was a sports racing car produced by Ferrari in the early 1950s. It was part of the iconic “166” series of cars built by Ferrari, with the “MM” in the name denoting its victory at the Mille Miglia, one of the most prestigious endurance races of the time.
The rarity and desirability of the Ferrari 166MM Barchetta contributed to its significant sale value. With classic Ferraris being sought after by collectors worldwide, the fact that this particular car fetched a staggering $1 million underscores its historical and monetary worth.
Did you know?
The Barchetta, meaning “little boat” in Italian, referred to the car’s open-top, two-seater design.
3. Ferrari 365GTB/4 Daytona
Status: Sold
Location Found: Unspecified
Year Found: 2017
Image source: CNN
The Ferrari 365GTB/4 Daytona, produced from 1968 to 1973, is a two-seat grand tourer that became an iconic symbol of power and elegance. It succeeded the Ferrari 275 GTB/4 and showcased Ferrari’s commitment to high-performance sports cars.
The unearthing and subsequent auction sale of a Ferrari 365GTB/4 Daytona in RM Sotheby for $2.2 million underscores this exceptional vehicle’s rarity, historical importance, and lasting attraction. It serves as a testament to the timeless allure of classic Ferraris and the deep dedication of enthusiasts eager to invest substantial sums to possess and safeguard these remarkable automobiles.
Did you know?
The Daytona was equipped with a front-mounted 4.4-liter V12 engine that produced around 352 horsepower, making it one of the fastest road-going cars of its time.
2. 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Ellena
Status: Unrestored
Location Found: Garage
Year Found: 1970s
Image source: Silodrome
The 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Ellena is a rare and valuable car found in a garage, suggesting that it was likely stored away for an extended period. The car was discovered in the 1970s, indicating that it was already several years old when it was found, further adding to its history and potential significance.
The Ferrari 250 GT Ellena is part of the iconic 250 GT series produced by Ferrari. It was designed by Pinin Farina, an esteemed Italian automotive design house, and named after its designer, Mario Felice Boano, who used the pseudonym “Ellena.”
Did you know?
Only a limited number of these cars were produced, making them highly prized among car enthusiasts and collectors.
1. 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra
Status: Unrestored but sold
Location Found: Barn
Year Found: 2016
Image source: Autoweek
The 1964 Shelby 289 Cobra, the rarest barn find, was found in 2016, several decades after its production ceased. This suggests that it had been stored away and unseen for a significant period of time, contributing to its barn find status and potentially preserving its original condition.
It was sold for $1,045,000 in 2018, remaining unrestored. Its unrestored status indicates that no significant restoration work has been carried out since its discovery, allowing it to retain its original condition, and character, and potentially showcase the signs of age and patina that come with it.
Did you know?
The early Shelby Cobras were equipped with Ford’s 289 cubic-inch (4.7-liter) V8 engine, which produced around 271 horsepower.
