While most of us can’t afford to participate in the high ends of these collector car auctions, the excitement of being at one is a thrill in itself. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best auto auctions in America. Where will you start?

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1. Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auctions

It shouldn’t be a surprise to see Barrett-Jackson come in first. Its half-century-long legacy has secured the company a place as the leader in the collector car auction landscape. Barrett Jackson is certainly one of, if not the, best auto auctions. The auction house holds events annually in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Connecticut, and Las Vegas. They feature some of the most famous and sought after vehicles the world over. Barrett-Jackson events are often star-studded showcases with cars worth millions up for grabs, so it’s an event not to be missed by buyers and enthusiasts alike.

2. Mecum

The Mecum Auction company is notorious for featuring the fastest, coolest and most sought after muscle cars out there. Auctions are held in 11 cities across the country. Each auction features fascinating main attractions like the 1968 Challenger 2 Streamliner, up for auction at the 2020 Kissimmee event. Mecum also hosts auctions on collector motorcycles, tractors, road art and guitars. It’s the perfect experience for fans of all things vintage.

3. Copart

Copart Auctions are less focused on collector and antique vehicles, so they are a great place to find great deals on everyday vehicles. Of course, this massive auction house boasts some remarkable collector items as well, like this uniquely outfitted G Wagon. Copart holds thousands of auctions held yearly, some online-only and some in-person, and has more than 125,000 vehicles available on any given day.

4. Russo and Steele

This somewhat underground auction house dubs itself the auctioneer “by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, and stands as a close challenger for the Barrett-Jackson auctions. Russo and Steele auctions are focused on European sports cars, American muscle cars, hot rods and customs. The events qualify as one of the best auto auctions in part thanks to the unique auction format which puts buyers, sellers and observers together in the same space. Event-goers sit in a 360º setup for an “in the ring” style of entertaining auction action, which drives excitement and competition.

5. RM Sotheby’s

As a brand symbolizing all the finer things in life, RM Sotheby’s events aren’t just some of the best auto auctions out there, they’re the stuff of legends. Sothebys hosts events in Monaco; Essen, Germany; Palm Beach and Amelia Island, Florida; Paris; and Phoenix, so there’s a Sotheby’s auction for all.

Buying at an auto auction?

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For many folks, getting a classic car to a show isn’t as simple as driving it there. Driving long distances in a vintage car can come with many challenges, with the car’s safety being a major concern. Shipping a vehicle to a show is a common way to bypass the problem and keep the car protected.

At uShip, we ship classic cars every day. With our easy listing tools, you can request quotes from transporters with enclosed trailers, classic car experience, or other factors. Heading to a show soon? Check out uShip’s rates on show car transport before you go – it could save you money, plus the headache of figuring out transport the old fashioned way.

To get you inspired, we’ve put together a list of the best and biggest classic car shows in the US. Check out the list to see if your favorite is featured.

1. IOLA Classic Car Show

The Iola Classic Car Show is a staple on the vintage car show scene. It features 4,200 swap spaces, 2,500 show cars, and over a thousand ‘For Sale’ car corrals. The show offers free admission and free show entry for pre-1942 vehicles. The 2020 event, held annually in Iola, Wisc., will be its 48th year. The 300-acre Iola car show is an event steeped in tradition, a sentimental event filled with nostalgia, friends and a welcoming slogan: “Come home to Iola.”

2. Charlotte Auto Fair

Nestled in the heart of the Carolinas, the Charlotte AutoFair is a world-renowned event that attracts enthusiasts both local and international. In its more than 35-year history, the Charlotte AutoFair has made it its mission to promote the factory-true restoration of vehicles 25-years old and older. The event is presented by the Antique Automobile Car Club of America’s Hornet’s Nest Region. The show sees about 150,000 attendees at each of its biannual events. A large-scale flea market features restoration parts and supplies for “almost any vehicle ever produced.”

3. Syracuse Nationals Classic Car Show

No discussion of classic car shows would be complete without a feature on Syracuse Nationals. The show in July, 2020, will be the show’s 21st. Central NY. 90,000 people. 8000 cars and trucks. The 2019 event drew in more than $75K in donations to charities like the Alzheimer’s Association and Ronald McDonald House Charities. The beloved Rockability Roundup features more than 400 cars in non-restored condition – a showcase of vehicles that owners want to showcase “as-is,” rather than after restoration. These unique vehicles are a highlight for many visitors.

4. Back to the 50’s Weekend

The fan-favorite was named USA Today’s Best Car Show three years in a row. Held annually at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul by the Minnesota Street Rod Association, Back to the 50s has been around for 47 years. The first-ever iteration saw 150 cars – today’s event hosts around 12,000 and boasts celebrity guests like hot rod extraordinaire Jay Leno. This massive event showcases all types of classic cars — from grungy rat rods to expertly restored pre-war relics. It’s a can’t-miss event for anyone who calls themselves a classic car enthusiast.

5. Crusin’ the Coast

Come on down to the South for this iconic gulf coast celebration of all things 4-wheeled. Pegging itself as “America’s Largest Block Party,” Cruisin’ the Coast began in 1996 with 374 vehicles. Today, more than 8,000 vehicles arrive with their owners from 4 different countries and 40 states. The focal point of the event occurs when thousands of vehicles take the 30-mile coastal cruise through towns like Biloxi, Gulfport and Ocean Springs, with each spot featuring its own live entertainment, vendors and spectators. While newer than many other hot rod car shows, Cruisin’ on the Coast has a flavor and crowd all its own.

6. Hot August Nights 

Hot August Nights was born as an event to celebrate the nostalgia of the 50s and 60s – the cars came later. At the inaugural event, a small number of show cars were present. Their popularity encouraged owners, offering a proud moment and catalyzing the event’s new identity as a vintage car show. One of the most structured and well-run shows out there, this event attracts a whopping 500,000 spectators, with more than 5,000 cars on display, and features drag races, the ROW Show n’ Shine competition and a sister show, the Vintage Trailer Revival.

7. The Elegance at Hershey Classic Car Show

This show takes place in Hershey, Pennsylvania and places a heavy focus on its associated charities. The crowning glory of the show comes on day one, when collectors and enthusiasts take part in The Grand Ascent. The traditional hill climb sees drivers of some of the world’s most well-known cars race, a two-day trek up a back road to The Hotel Hershey. The Elegance at Hershey is a high-end show with participants bringing high-end mid-century race and collector cars from around the world. The Elegance event, described as “a genteel garden party featuring the world’s finest collector cars,” is a crowd favorite and marks the show’s conclusion.

8. Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

The world-renowned Pebble Beach plays host to this show – a staple on the show car scene – and it’s not to be missed. A crowd outfitted in sunhats, pastels, bow-ties and driving gloves, it’s aptly named for its sophisticated environment. The 2020 event will mark Concours d’Elegance’s 70th year. Best-in-show winners are often Rolls Royces from the 20s, 70-year-old Ferarris, or Aston Martins of yesteryear. This event is the premiere destination for the true vintage enthusiast thanks both to its notoriety and tradition. Can’t make it in person? You can livestream the entire event.

Heading to a car show with your vehicle? Learn more about shipping it with our helpful guides:

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By the way: we can help you ship anything big, bulky, heavy, or awkward anywhere in the country!

The angular, the bubble-shaped, the failed vintage throwback, the lack of identity (is it a truck or a car?) – all common elements of these tragically ill-received vehicles. It’s remarkable that while we might not all agree on the best cars ever, there are certain rides we all know to be – ugly. Without further ado, here is our list of the ugliest cars of all time:

1. The Tesla Cybertruck

Since its release in late 2023, the Cybertruck has only solidified its position as one of the most polarizing vehicles ever made. While early critics hoped the production version might soften its angular design, Tesla stayed true to the original concept. Despite its impressive capabilities and unique features like the ultra-hard stainless steel body, its dystopian aesthetic remains divisive. The $80k starting price hasn’t helped its case either.

2. PT Cruiser

Time hasn’t been kind to Chrysler’s attempt at retro styling. Though production ended in 2010, the PT Cruiser remains notorious for its confused identity. What started as a novel idea – bringing 1930s styling to modern cars – resulted in what many consider an automotive design disaster. Today, they’ve become somewhat of an ironic collector’s item, especially the rare wood-paneled editions. For the curious, “PT” still stands for “Personal Transportation,” though many owners have their own colorful interpretations.

3. Chevy SSR

This short-lived experiment (2003-2006) tried to combine a pickup truck, sports car, and convertible into one vehicle. With prices of used SSRs now climbing due to their rarity, it’s worth remembering why they’re so scarce: nobody wanted them new. The retro-styled truck remains a testament to why some automotive segments should stay separate.

4. Pontiac Aztek

The Aztek’s legacy has evolved slightly thanks to its starring role in Breaking Bad, but it’s still considered one of history’s biggest automotive design failures. While some modern crossovers have similar proportions, none quite match the Aztek’s unique blend of confused styling elements. Ironically, its practical features (like the built-in tent option) were ahead of their time – if only they’d been wrapped in a more appealing package.

5. Subaru Brat

The BRAT (Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter) represents a fascinating chapter in automotive history. While modern car-based pickups like the Hyundai Santa Cruz have found success, the BRAT’s awkward proportions and peculiar design choices keep it firmly in the “what were they thinking?” category. Those rear-facing jump seats would never pass safety standards today.

6. Kia Soul

The Soul continues to sell well despite (or perhaps because of) its polarizing design. While newer models have received styling updates, the basic boxy shape remains. Those hamster commercials might be gone, but the Soul’s reputation for quirky styling lives on. It’s found its niche as a practical, affordable vehicle for those who embrace its unconventional looks.

7. Nissan Cube

The Cube took the “box on wheels” concept to its logical extreme. While it’s no longer sold in most markets, surviving examples continue to turn heads – though not always for the right reasons. Its asymmetrical rear window design and rippled headliner remain unique features in automotive design, for better or worse.

8. Nissan Murano Crosscabriolet

This convertible crossover experiment has aged into something of a collector’s item, with clean examples now commanding surprising prices. While the regular Murano continues as a successful crossover, the CrossCabriolet stands as a reminder that not every automotive segment needs a convertible variant.

9. Suzuki X90

The X-90’s rarity has made it a cult classic, with prices for well-preserved examples reaching surprising levels. This tiny two-seat SUV with removable T-tops represents a segment that thankfully never caught on. Its brief production run (1995-1997) means finding one today is a challenge, though some might consider that a blessing.

10. Ford Mustang 2 

The Mustang II remains a black sheep in Mustang history. Born during the oil crisis, it represented a dramatic departure from the muscle car era. While modern Mustangs have reclaimed their performance heritage, the Mustang II serves as a reminder of how even iconic nameplates can lose their way.

Ugly Cars — Less is More

These vehicles prove that automotive design is subjective and often controversial. While they might not win beauty contests, each has contributed something unique to automotive history – even if that contribution is showing us what not to do. In an era of increasingly bold automotive designs, these cars remind us that sometimes, less is more.

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Cars mean different things to different people. Some see them as pure utility, while others view them as rolling works of art or machines built for speed and excitement. For collectors and restorers, they’re a labor of love, representing countless hours of dedication.

By the way — we can help you ship your vehicle (or anything big) anywhere in the US!

As we look back through automotive history, we’re highlighting some of the most beloved cars from each decade, chosen based on sales, cultural impact, and lasting appeal. Check out our picks and share your favorites in the comments!

1940s Vehicle of the Decade: Lincoln Continental

The Continental is a car as American as can be. While production halted during the mid-40s to conserve supplies for the war, it was still a staple in American culture during the time and worked to elevate the standard of what a luxury vehicle should truly be.

1950s Vehicle of the Decade: Chevy Corvette

The Corvette was born in 1953 and quickly became one of the most collectible and sought after cars on the road. Its bold styling and impressive performance became synonymous with high-performance vehicles, making it the most beloved car of the 1950s.

1960s Vehicle of the Decade: Pontiac GTO

The GTO marked the introduction of the American Muscle Car. Packing an unprecedented amount of power under the hood of a slick, stylish exterior set the GTO apart from the moment of its introduction. While the GTO remained a bestseller throughout the ‘60s, it catalyzed the rush for other manufacturers to create competing muscle cars, which would shape a generation.

1970s Vehicle of the Decade: Olds Cutlass Supreme

Oldsmobile made a massive mark on the auto industry in the ‘70s with its extensive Cutlass lineup. But one car stood above the rest as a household name and collector favorite: the Cutlass Supreme. It was a luxury take on the popular Olds offering, one that was so beloved that it enjoyed a nearly 30-year production run.

1980s Vehicle of the Decade: Delorean

Nowadays, we think of the Delorean as the car from Back to the Future, but its popularity far preceded its big-screen debut. The Delorean was marketed as a competitor to Lotus, Ferrari, and Porche, but lacked many of the features that would put it on par with these brands. Nevertheless, the car sold in impressive numbers and remains a pillar of cliche 1980s culture.

1990s Vehicle of the Decade: Lincoln Towncar

There’s no denying that driving a Towncar is a lot like driving a boat. But it’s a boat outfitted with cushy interiors, a supremely comfortable ride, and an impressive amount of endurance. The Towncar was nothing new in the 90s, but it became prolific during the decade as a symbol of class, carrying celebrities and other powerful people, and often being produced as limousines.

2000s Vehicle of the Decade: Ford Mustang

The Mustang is one of the longest-produced cars in American history, so we’d be remiss to not include it here. Surprisingly, the 2000s were a sort of renaissance for Ford, a time during which the Mustang saw higher sales numbers than it had in decades. In the early aughts, Mustang reclaimed its place as one of the most desired and impressive sports cars out there.

2010s Vehicle of the Decade: Tesla Model 3

While the Tesla brand as a whole is somewhat polarizing – many love it, many hate it – it’s undeniable that it has transformed the auto industry. Its initial public offering, the Model S, was very well received but carried a price tag that limited access to it. Then came the Model 3 in 2017, which offered a price much more accessible to the public, and overhauled the preconceived notions of electric cars, replacing them with impressions of quality, slick design and innovation.

Now that you’ve seen our top cars of the decades, find a place to get your hands on one:

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Finding a steal at an auto auction is a thrill – but it’s also a skill. Read on to find our top auto auction tips and tricks to find a great deal.

Whether you’re a connoisseur of the classics or a bargain hunter on the prowl, an auto auction is like a mecca for like-minded folks who are all eager to win the same prize.

Auto auctions, like the vehicles they peddle, come in all shapes and sizes. Smaller, niche auctions commonly feature one-of-a-kind collector classics, while larger, commercial auctions focus on daily drivers that simply need a new owner.

No matter which type of auction you attend, coming prepared with the resources and knowledge to navigate the process is crucial. The more familiar you are with the process and best practices, the more likely you are to come away with a prize to be proud of. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of our best tactics.

Top Five Auto Auction Tips and Tricks:

1. Fortune favors the prepared

Every auction is different, but in general, much of the information you’re going to need is available ahead of time. Take the time to research which vehicles will be up for auction, determine which you’re interested in, and get very familiar with that vehicle. It’s a good idea to research common issues with the vehicle to check for during inspection.

Additionally, research the auction itself to understand the ins and outs of its processes. Every auction operates differently, even those in the same categories. Be sure to understand how bidding works, what access you’ll have to the vehicles before the show, and what specific issues sellers are required to disclose.

Auctions are fast-paced and high-pressure. It’s important that you understand the stake of what you’re bidding on, even in the rush of the moment. Most auctions have very specific rules regarding the lights above the auctioneer, which can signal things like a car having over 100,000 miles, or many other important details. By the same measure, be sure you understand the rules of the auction. Some auctions allow for outside bidders to participate, and some allow the auctioneer to reference false bids to drive the selling price up. None of these should be a red flag, but understanding how it works will help you better navigate your purchase. Keep in mind, if you only follow one of these tips for auto auction hunting, this is the one to stick to.

2. Inspect the merchandise

Before the auction, you can inspect the vehicle(s) you’re interested in to see what you’re really comfortable paying. If possible, get inside the vehicle and switch the ignition on. Test out features, switches and lights to detect things that might cost you later in repairs. It seems like an obvious step, but it’s the best way to avoid an obvious lemon.

Carefully inspect the paintwork for rough patches or uneven texture. You can bring a paint meter along to test paint thickness, which could be camouflaging undisclosed repairs.

Finally, if you’re serious about buying, do as much of the paperwork as possible beforehand. It can help streamline the process and get you out the door much faster than waiting to complete all the paperwork along with all the other buyers after you’ve won.

3. Plan to spend on repairs

Typically, you know pretty well what you’re getting when you purchase from an auction. Of course, with varying disclosure rules between auctions, issues that can’t be obviously identified, or underlying problems, you may run into trouble. The best way to prepare for this is to expect to invest in repairs for the vehicle. The amount you should be prepared to spend depends heavily on the vehicle at hand, but you should always budget in the cost of a full inspection and detail at the very least.

4. Bid in odd increments

This auto auction tip is as old as time: If you’re participating in an online, blind or silent auction, it’s a good idea to increase your bid by uneven amounts. In these situations, you’re often encouraged to increase your bid by relatively large amounts ($100 is common) but you don’t always need to increase your bid this much. If everyone seems to be bidding in obvious increments, consider offering an odd number above the top offer. If everyone else is jumping $100 with every offer, you may just be in luck by offering a few bucks above that thanks to automatic bids and maximums.

5. Set a budget – and stick to it

It’s a story all too common – a bidder sees the vehicle they’ve been eyeing go up on the block and all bets are off. The objective shifts from getting a great deal to simply winning the auction. It’s a good idea to have a cap on how much the vehicle is worth to you and not let yourself bid above it, regardless of how the auction is going. Remember that a great deal is only a great deal for as long as it saves you money. Once prices go above what you’re comfortable paying, it’s time to walk away instead of double down.

Now that you know the tactics for a successful day at the auction, check out our guide on shipping your new vehicle home from an auction.

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