The most expensive car brands: Expensive cars and their luxury brands

The most expensive car brands in the world sell their vehicles at a much higher premium than most of us are used to. These products achieve higher prices for their phenomenal design, unique features, and links to sensational brands.  

While the average car in the US during 2021 cost around $42,258, or around $563 per month, a vehicle from an expensive luxury car brand can easily cost over ten times this. Many of the most expensive car companies sell vehicles for millions of dollars. 

If you’ve ever wondered which cars have the highest price tag or which companies deliver the most luxurious, high-quality vehicles, you’re in the right place.

Today, we’re going to look not only at some of the most expensive car companies in the world but also their most costly vehicles.

What is the most expensive car in the world?

Defining the most expensive car brands

Some of the most expensive car brands in the world are well-known names today. You’re probably familiar with innovators like Rolls Royce and Ferrari. Other organizations are lesser-known or only produce a handful of vehicles in specific regions of the world.

While expensive cars are usually luxurious, luxury car brands don’t necessarily have to be the most expensive.

BMWs are the most popular luxury car brand in the USA. However, the increasing affordability of vehicles from the BMW line means this company is rarely defined as one of the most expensive car brands in the world. 

For today’s list, we’ll be looking at popular and lesser-known companies from the automotive industry, focusing specifically on those with more expensive products.

This list is based on information from the last couple of years (as of 2022), so the most expensive car companies could definitely change in the years to come.

Expensive car brands: The most expensive car companies

The most expensive car companies in the world are constantly changing as new organizations emerge, and existing brands release new vehicles. However, some brands are more commonly associated with expensive cars than most.

Here are some of the most expensive car brands worth noting:

1. BMW

BMW stands as one of the world’s most popular luxury car brands today. Although it’s not the most expensive company on our list when it comes to retail vehicle prices, there are still some costly models out there. BMW is best known for producing high-end vehicles for the supercar market.  

The BMW X5 Le Mans Concept sold for around $1 million, while the M8 E31 prototype also achieved an average price tag of around a million. Most of the more common BMW cars come in at just under the $1 million price tag.

Learn more about the BMW logo here.

2. Mazzanti

Italian automotive company Mazzanti produces high-quality performance cars and was first launched in 2002 by Luca Mazzanti and Walter Faralli. After years of work, the company presented the Evantra project in 2011 and only produces around five of these vehicles per year.

The Mazzanti Evantra Millecavalli came with a price of around $1.2 million, so it makes sense that the company only commits to producing a handful of these products regularly.

3. ARES Design

Defined as a “Luxury Italian Coachmaker,” Ares Design is a company based in Italy responsible for creating limited edition vehicles and bespoke cars. As you might expect, the custom cars built by this company can fetch a hefty sum.

The average Areas S1 will cost around $500,000 with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine taken from the much cheaper C8 Corvette.

A slightly more expensive Ares Design car, the Panther ProgettoUno costs a little more at almost $530,000, and there will only ever be 21 units made.

4. Zenvo Automotive

Danish hypercar and sports car company Zenvo Automotive was first founded in 2004 to create some of the fastest street-legal supercars on the market. One of the company’s most expensive vehicles right now is the Zenvo ST1, with a complete production run of only 15 vehicles in total.  

Zenvo also produces a host of other cars over the $1 million mark, including the Zenvo TSR-S with a V8 engine (8.8 liters) and a horsepower of 1,777. These vehicles cost around $1.6 million.

5. Bentley

If you’re familiar with famous British car brands, you probably already know a thing or two about Bentley. The company is known around the world for its luxurious sedan motors. Some of the most famous vehicles from the organization can routinely fetch millions of dollars at auctions.

Perhaps one of the most famous Bentley cars, the 1929 Bentley supercharged single-seater earned $7 million at an auction in 2012. Various other “vintage” models have also managed to attract big spenders over the years, such as the Bentley Blower from 1932. 

Learn more about the Bentley logo here.

6. Audi

There are quite a few Audi vehicles today with a more affordable price tag, thanks to the company’s commitment to making more versatile luxury cars. However, Audi, one of the better-known German brands in the world, has produced some of the most expensive cars too.  

Owned by the Volkswagen group, Audi designed the phenomenal 2003 Audi LeMans concept, which sold for an incredible price of around $5 million. Who knows what this vehicle could earn in auction today?

Learn more about the Audi logo here.

7. Rimac Automobili

Unless you’re a huge fan of expensive cars and expensive car companies, you might not be too familiar with this Croatian business.

Rimac Automobili has produced some of the top electric supercars worldwide, and the organization is also responsible for the electric batteries used by major car companies like Koenigsegg.

The Rimac C-Two Electric hypercar can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 1.85 seconds. Although production was delayed due to the pandemic, it’s expected to debut for a massive price of over $2 million.   

8. Lotus Cars

Another British car manufacturer entering the ranks of the most expensive car companies, Lotus Cars is based in Norfolk and was originally founded in 1948. The company has produced a range of some of the most popular sports cars in history, often sold for well over $1 million.

One of the company’s vehicles, the Lotus Evija, sells for around $2.1 million and is limited to only 130 units. According to the company, the car can deliver a massive 1972 horsepower.

Learn more about the Lotus logo here.

9. Mercedes Benz

Since it originally launched in 1926, Mercedes Benz has become one of the better-known car companies of all time. Although you can get your hands on a Mercedes without spending a fortune, there are a few limited-edition models which cost a pretty penny.

The Mercedes-Benz Maybach Exelero only had 12 units produced globally, each costing around $8 million. One is apparently owned by the famous singer Jay Z.  

Learn more about the Mercedes Benz logo here.

10. Ferrari

If you’re a fan of luxury car brands, then you’re probably pretty familiar with Ferrari. This world-renowned Italian car company produces all kinds of high-quality vehicles, including racing and sports cars.

Over the years, there have been more than a handful of eye-wateringly expensive cars produced by Ferrari.

According to some experts, one of the most famous examples is the vintage 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO, which sold for $70 million. The Ferrari LeFerrari Aperta, a more recent creation by the company, retails for around $2.2 million. 

Learn more about the Ferrari logo here.

11. McLaren Automotive

Founded by the famous racing driver Bruce McLaren in 1963, McLaren is a world-renowned British supercar company with some excellent heritage. The company produces cars for the racing world and has won numerous car races over the years.

As you might expect, McLaren Automotive vehicles can be extremely expensive. The Speedtail, a limited-edition model, which McLaren released around 106 units, retailed for around $2.25 million.

The vehicle sold out pretty quickly, though, so it’s unlikely you’d find one for that price today.

12. Aspark

Best known for its technologically-advanced vehicles, Aspark produces not only electric vehicles, but also technical, chemical, and medical solutions, too.

Aspark is responsible for the world’s fastest electric hypercar, the Aspark Owl. This vehicle was originally introduced during the Frankfurt auto show in 2017.  

Going from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 1.72 seconds, this car has achieved worldwide recognition. However, it’s also one of the most expensive cars around, retailing at $3.56 million.

13. W Motors

One of the first sports car manufacturers to appear within the Middle East, W Motors is based in Dubai. The company focuses on automotive design, but also research, development, and engineering in the automotive space.

W Motors developed the first vehicle for ICONIQ motors and produced one of the cars in the Fast and Furious movie, which Vin Diesel now owns. The luxury car generates around 750 horsepower and retailed at $3.4 million. 

14. Aston Martin

It’s hard to find anyone not familiar with Aston Martin these days. One of the most famous luxury British car brands in the world, Aston Martin has produced various vehicles for the James Bond films.

The company produced the DB 5 for Goldfinger, which sold at around $4.6 million in an auction, complete with its pop-out gun barrels and revolving number plate.

The other DB 5 vehicles produced by Aston Martin were available for a time for $3.5 million, but they weren’t road-legal thanks to their extra features.  

Learn more about the Aston Martin logo here.

15. Lamborghini

Lamborghini is one of the world’s most expensive car companies and one of the most famous brands on the market, too.

The company, based in Italy, is best known for creating a host of stunning luxury cars and innovative vehicles. The Lamborghini Sian was the first sports car to be powered by hybrid technology and a V12 engine.

One of the more expensive Lamborghinis on the market is the Veneno Roadster, which was originally valued at $4.5 million and has since sold in auction for almost double this amount. Only nine units were created in total.  

Learn more about the Lamborghini logo here.

16. Koenigsegg

One of the top Swedish manufacturers in the world, Koenigsegg is a relatively well-known choice among expensive car companies. Founded in 1994, Koenigsegg won a Guinness World Record for producing one of the world’s most powerful cars in 2002.

Among the most expensive Koenigsegg cars is the CCXR Trevita, which entered the market with a price tag of $4.8 million. There were only 49 of these carts produced in total.

Various other high-cost models are also out there, such as the Jesko, launched at the 2019 International Motor Show.

17. Maserati

First launched in 1914, Maserati is another phenomenal example of an expensive car brand from Italy.

Currently owned by Stellantis, this organization specializes in cars built for performance. The luxury models have achieved a lot of recognition over the years. In fact, Maserati won the “best of the best” prize at the Red Dot Awards for 2021.

Various Maserati cars have emerged with a price tag in the millions, such as the Maserati Birdcage for over $3 million and the Maserati Alfieri Concept (more than $2 million).

Learn more about the Maserati logo here.

18. Jaguar

Owned by the Land Rover company, Jaguar Cars is responsible for a wide selection of luxurious vehicles across the globe.

Jaguar is well-known for delivering a range of high-end cars to big spenders worldwide. While some products are definitely more expensive than others, Jaguar’s cars usually don’t come cheap.

One of the costliest cars produced by Jaguar was the 1955 Jaguar D-Type, which sold for around $21,780,000 in an auction. This was the car responsible for winning the Le Mans race in 1956. The Jaguar XJ13 earned a decent price tag at over $15 million.

Learn more about the Jaguar logo here.

19. Bugatti

Bugatti produces high-performance automobiles and has been in production for more than 110 years. The cars are best known for their beauty and design. Famous options include the Type 35 Grand Prix cars, such as the Type 41 Royale.

The Edition Bugatti Veyron retailed around $1.9 million, while other vehicles have increased their price tag even further. The Bugatti Divo sold for $5.4 million, and the Centodieci had a price of around $8.6 million.

Perhaps the most expensive was the Bugatti La Voiture Noire, selling at around $18.68 million after taxes.

Learn more about the Bugatti logo here.

20. Pagani Automobili

An Italian company well-known for crafting carbon fiber components and sports vehicles, Pagani was established in Modena in 1992. The Pagani brand launched a host of phenomenal high-priced cars over the years.

As an example, Huayra BC costs around $3.4 million.

The Pagani Huayra Imola, with only five models, started with a price tag of around $5 million. In comparison, the Zonda HP Barchetta is set to sell for a phenomenal $23.65 million with only three models destined to appear in the market.

What is the most expensive car in the world?

The world’s most expensive cars

Now that you have an idea of some of the world’s most expensive car brands, let’s dive deeper into the most expensive cars produced throughout the years. There are dozens of incredible examples, but we’ll stick to a top-ten list.

10. Pagani Huayra BC Roadster

A stunning vehicle with an incredible carbon fiber material finish throughout, the Pagani Huayra Roadster definitely turns some heads. This vehicle sells for around $3.5 million, but the price has evolved quite drastically over the years.

9. Lamborghini Sian

The word “Sian” translates to “Lightbolt,” which definitely pulls attention to the speedy vibes Lamborghini was trying to convey.

The limited-edition supercar has only sold to 63 customers worldwide and was the most customizable Lamborghini ever made. Prices started at around $3.6 million when the vehicle entered the market.

8. Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+

One of the most expensive cars produced by Bugatti, the Chiron Super Sport delivers an incredible combination of speed and power. While Bugattis often go for several million dollars, this vehicle was particularly impressive as one of the first to break the speed barrier of 300mph.

Prices for the automobile started at $5.7 million.

7. Bugatti Divo

Another phenomenal example from one of the world’s most expensive car brands, the Divo had similar features to the Chiron as well as a more exotic look. Only around 40 Divos were made in total, and each has already been purchased.

The car retailed for around $6 million, but has gone for higher prices in auction.

6. Bugatti Centodieci

One of the most exclusive vehicles produced by Bugatti, the Centodieci had a run of only ten units.

All of the cars immediately sold to fans around the world, including buyers like Christiano Ronaldo. Selling for around $9 million, this vehicle offered everything from 1577 horsepower to a quad-turbo engine. It’s the fastest accelerating car by Bugatti.

5. Rolls Royce Sweptail

Produced via request, the Rolls Royce Sweptail was once one of the most expensive cars in the world and it still earns a relatively high spot in our list today. The luxurious vehicle includes vintage elements ideal for earning the attention of classic car collectors.

This vehicle sold for around $13 million, though the owner of the car is unknown.

4. Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta

One of the first cars produced by the Pagani Automobili company, the Zonda transformed the industry for many luxury car buyers.

When the Zonda HP Barchetta emerged, it built on the initial design features of the original vehicle while adding a little extra too. The car was valued at around $17.6 million, making it one of the costliest cars around.

3. Bugatti La Voiture Noire

Bugatti has certainly made a name for itself with its expensive cars.

The Bugatti La Voiture Noire is one of the most attractive vehicles on the market. The name translates to “The Black Car,” which is a simple title, but one great for capturing the sophistication of the vehicle.

This car sold for around $18.7 million – a huge price tag for any luxury car fan.

2. Rolls Royce Boat Tail

Designed as a coach-built model created around a pre-existing framework, the Rolls Royce Boat Tail was a three-unit run intended for only a handful of collectors. The design features elements of a J-Class yacht, making it a particularly interesting car.

This vehicle sold for around $28 million and came with 563 horsepower.

1. 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO

An amazing installment in any list of the world’s most expensive cars, the Ferrari 250 GTO from 1963 stands out as one of the most expensive vehicles ever to sell at auction.

The vehicle won the Tour de France in 1964 and sold for a massive $70 million. Though the specs of this vehicle might seem a little outdated today, the impact of the car remains consistent among automotive lovers.

Exploring the most expensive luxury car brands

The most expensive car brands come in various styles and price tags to suit different consumers. While you might not have the cash to afford one of these amazing products yourself, you can still marvel at the beauty and engineering skills in each one.

Hopefully, this list of expensive cars and the companies behind them has given you an insight into some of the most sought-after vehicles in the world.

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