Rare Yellow Ferrari F50 Owned by Ralph Lauren Set for Auction

A highly sought-after yellow Ferrari F50, once owned by fashion mogul Ralph Lauren, is set to go under the hammer at RM Sotheby’s auction during Monterey Car Week in California this August. This auction presents a unique opportunity for collectors, as only two U.S.-specification F50s were ever produced in this striking shade, with this particular model having an impressive lineage and history.

The Ferrari F50, which celebrates the brand's 50th anniversary, is one of just 349 models manufactured. It is powered by a Formula One-derived V12 engine and features a removable hard-top roof. Originally purchased by Lauren in 1995, the vehicle has been largely unseen since it was sold in 2003, with the current owner only displaying it publicly at select events until 2009. According to RM Sotheby’s, the car has been maintained in immaculate condition, clocking fewer than 5,400 miles over its lifetime.

The auction house estimates the F50 will fetch between $6.5 million and $7.5 million, a price that reflects not only the rarity of the color but also the car’s celebrity provenance. As noted by RM Sotheby’s, vehicles previously owned by Lauren rarely come up for sale, making this auction particularly notable.

Historically, the F50's market value has fluctuated significantly. Once perceived as inferior to its predecessor, the F40, the F50 has seen its value rise dramatically in recent years, with prices increasing from below $1 million a decade ago to more than double that today. A red F50 sold earlier this year for $5,532,500, indicating the growing demand for these supercars.

Ferrari's decision to produce a limited number of F50s, and the subsequent rarity of models painted in Giallo Modena yellow, has contributed to the car’s desirability. In a statement, RM Sotheby’s emphasized the significance of the car's history, stating, "It is very rare that Mr. Lauren has parted with a car once acquired, making the opportunity to purchase a vehicle with his provenance quite a rarity."

The car’s certification from Ferrari Classiche, indicating that all components remain original, further enhances its appeal among collectors. This certification was recently renewed in 2024, ensuring that the vehicle meets the stringent standards set by the manufacturer.

As the auction approaches, interest among collectors is expected to intensify, with many viewing this as a rare chance to own a piece of automotive history linked to one of fashion's most iconic figures. The auction not only showcases the vehicle’s impressive specifications and history but also highlights the evolving market for classic supercars, where provenance and rarity play crucial roles in valuation.

In conclusion, the sale of this yellow Ferrari F50 underscores the intersection of luxury, automotive engineering, and celebrity culture, marking a significant moment for collectors and enthusiasts alike. With the auction scheduled for mid-August, the anticipation surrounding the event continues to build, promising an exhilarating outcome for bidders and Ferrari aficionados.