Bernie Ecclestone's treasured collection of race cars is ready to find new owners. This collection includes historic models such as the first Ferrari to win a Formula 1 race and the innovative Brabham "fan car."
Nearly 70 extraordinary cars, many champion vehicles of their era, are set to be sold. Ecclestone, a former F1 giant, led the sport until Liberty Media's $4.6 billion acquisition in 2017. His significant influence allowed him to gather an unmatched collection of race cars.
Tom Hartley Jnr, a specialist dealer in Derbyshire, UK, has been entrusted with the sales. Some cars have never been sold or seen in public before. The collection is estimated to be worth an astounding $400 million and features renowned models like the Gordon Murray-designed BT46 "fan car."
- Brabham BT46 "Fan Car": This groundbreaking vehicle dominated the Swedish Grand Prix in 1978.
- Ferrari F2002: Michael Schumacher's championship-winning car.
- Dino 246: The car in which Mike Hawthorn captured the 1958 championship.
- Vanwall VW10: Driven by Sir Stirling Moss, it secured the first Formula 1 constructor's championship for Britain.
Around half the collection consists of Brabhams, many unseen for decades. The remainder involves championship-winning cars driven by legends such as Piquet, Senna, and Ascari.
At 94, Ecclestone wants to secure the legacy of his cars. "I didn't want to leave Fabi his wife, Fabiana Flosi wondering what to do with them," he says.
These transactions will be conducted privately, brokered by Tom Hartley Jnr, unlike traditional auctions. While details may remain confidential, enthusiasts hope these treasures find homes in public collections or museums.
Summary: Bernie Ecclestone, the former F1 titan, is parting with his prestigious race car collection, which includes historic championship models and groundbreaking designs. With nearly 70 cars available in a private sale worth $400 million, this event, managed by Tom Hartley Jnr, hopes to see these racing treasures showcased anew, ideally in museums for everyone to enjoy.
