The Rudi Klein Collection: A Legendary Junkyard Auction Hits Over $31 Million in Sales

The recent RM Sotheby’s auction of “The Junkyard: The Rudi Klein Collection” in Los Angeles drew the attention of classic car collectors worldwide, culminating in a jaw-dropping $31 million in sales. This auction marks the first time that Rudi Klein’s private collection—a secretive stash of rare automotive gems—has ever been offered to the public, creating a sensation among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Klein, a reclusive yet discerning collector, was known in select circles as the guardian of a mythical junkyard. For decades, rumors swirled about his Southern Los Angeles lot, which housed some of the rarest cars in automotive history. Until now, few had ever laid eyes on this trove, as Klein kept the yard closed to the public and away from prying eyes. With this auction, however, the myths became reality, and some of the world’s most coveted vehicles found new homes.

Highlights of the Collection: Record-Breaking Sales and Automotive Legends

Leading the charge was the iconic 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Alloy’ Gullwing, a car that has captivated enthusiasts for years. The only 300 SL Alloy Gullwing to leave the factory in black, this vehicle fetched an astounding $9,355,000, setting a new benchmark for the model. Although repainted silver at some point in its life, the car’s unmatched history and rarity made it the event’s top seller.

Other standout sales included a 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500 K once owned by legendary driver Rudolf Caracciola, which went for an impressive $4.1 million. Also in the mix was a 1939 Horch 855 Special Roadster that sold for $3.3 million and a rare 1968 Lamborghini Miura that closed at $1.3 million. These vehicles, alongside unique finds like an Iso Grifo Spider prototype and a wealth of original parts, underscored the significance of Klein’s hoard, estimated to have a combined value that few expected could be this high.

A Long-Awaited Unveiling

For decades, Klein’s collection existed only in whispers and rumors, as he meticulously guarded access to his Southern Los Angeles yard. Cary Ahl, an RM Sotheby’s specialist, noted that the collection has been “a source of intrigue for decades.” RM Sotheby’s painstakingly cataloged each piece, generating significant global interest in this once-hidden collection.

The Rudi Klein auction event is more than just a sale; it represents the unveiling of a unique chapter in automotive history. These vehicles aren’t merely high-ticket collectibles—they’re part of an enduring legacy shaped by Klein’s passion, persistence, and unparalleled eye for rarity. For the new owners, these purchases are not just acquisitions but inheritances of a fascinating era in automotive collecting.

Rudi Klein’s collection is an emblem of how preservation and mystery can amplify value and intrigue. RM Sotheby’s auction has turned an exclusive glimpse into Klein’s world into a record-breaking sale. The total of over $31 million speaks volumes about the allure and value of these automotive treasures, affirming Klein’s legacy as one of the most enigmatic collectors in the car world.

More about The Junkyard

Missed the Auction and excitement? Watch the video recording.