Hidden Treasures: 30+ Rare And Classic Cars Unexpectedly Found In Barns
Finding a rare vehicle in a barn only happens in movies, or most of us think so. Fortunately for the people in this list, Lady Luck was at their side, and the universe conspired to give them the car of their dreams without spending their entire life savings.
These cars were discovered when the owners were inspecting their newest real-estate acquisitions. Little did they know that their new properties came with a bonus, and most cost more than the buildings that housed them!
Although some were inheritances from loved ones who passed away, most rare automobiles in this list were found in the most unexpected places, ranging from barns to random fields and old garages. If only everyone could be as fortunate.
1948 Toyota FJ40 4×4
The 1948 Toyota FJ40 4×4 easily surpasses the Jeep. Despite not enjoying the same level of popularity as before, these vehicles still retain significant appeal, and this model comes with its authentic inline six-cylinder motor intact. It has features enough to make any car enthusiast drool.
Moreover, it boasts the original inline 6-cylinder engine. This vintage Toyota is parked in the owner’s garage in all its glory. It may need some bodywork and a new interior to look like it did in its prime, but once restored, it’s going to look like a million dollars.
1963 Mercury M 100
This is yet another automobile within the collection of 13 vintage cars and trucks stored in a Canadian barn. This machine is the 1963 Mercury M 100, also known as the Ford F100. The first generation of these babies were released between 1948 and 1952.
Positioned next to it is a classic Studebaker, adding to the delightful array of vehicles. We would like to know how the owner of these cars got these fine pieces and if any of them will be going up for auction anytime soon.
1979 Firebird Trans Am
Discover a thrilling muscle car reminiscent of the past with these 1979 Firebird barn finds. Pontiac achieved excellence with the 1979 Firebird Trans Am model. This piece boasts a shaker hood and a 4-speed manual transmission, enhancing its appeal.
Looking at it almost makes us anticipate the Weird Science cast appearing at any given moment. We don’t know how much this car sold for, but the new owners are happy about it. If only everyone were as lucky.
1977 Fiat 124 Spider
Are you in search of a vintage car with a striking appearance but a less aggressive performance? Consider the 1977 Fiat 124 Spider. This elegant vehicle produces 115 bhp through its DOHC four-cylinder engine.
While it might not be powerful, its aesthetic appeal is genuinely captivating. This rare piece might need some dusting, but it seems to be in excellent condition. Anyone looking to get this car should be ready to check under the hood.
1969 Porsche 912
We have a 1969 Porsche 912, and its appearance is far from unimpressive. Despite spending considerable time in a barn, it retains an incredibly appealing look. However, it’s essential to temper your enthusiasm a bit.
While the engine isn’t in its original state, it does remain faithful to the original type. A new engine, tires, and a few touch-ups will bring this vintage back to life. We can’t wait to see it roaring down the road again.
1968 Corvette Convertible
Corvettes consistently exude a captivating charm, even when individuals undertake rather unconventional modifications. Consider this example: if the body appears broader than usual, it’s due to replacing the original with an expanded kit. Can you imagine the base price back then, only $4,320?
That does not mean it doesn’t deserve some love. Corvette lovers would like to own this piece of machinery either to refurbish, display, or hide in their private collection in a garage or barn. Hopefully, they’ll give it the love it deserves.
1969 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 “Daytona” Listed at $2.6 million
This vehicle’s owner decided to auction it at Barrett-Jackson. He came upon this treasure after acquiring a portion of land, including a barn housing the car and various other valuable items. The final auction price reached $2.6 million. Would you do the same or keep the car?
This vintage Ferrari was hidden away from the world and would not have been discovered without this very lucky fellow buying that property. Imagine the owner’s delight when he discovered he was the owner of a car that could fetch millions.
1977 Aston Martin Listed at $38,746 to $54,880 (If Working)
This 1977 Aston Martin is a true powerhouse, boasting a formidable V-8 engine beneath its hood. While the promising aspect is the robust engine, the unfortunate reality is that it hasn’t roared to life in approximately 15 years.
It’s disheartening, especially considering that these vehicles were once heralded as the supercars of their era, achieving an impressive top speed of 170 mph. Collectors have their eyes out for barn finds such as this, which can go from forty thousand dollars to fifty-four thousand dollars.
1969 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 Listed at $39,000 to $200,000
The 1969 2+2 Jaguar E-type certainly holds a special place in automotive history. If the details elude you, this remarkable barn find is bound to leave an indelible mark. This vintage piece’s price ranges from forty thousand to two hundred thousand dollars.
Numerous enthusiasts regard this model as a potential precursor to the Porsche 928, often associated with touring prototypes. After this encounter, the memory of this vehicle is likely to stick with you. Car collectors and enthusiasts want it and are willing to spend enormous amounts of money to acquire it.
1922 Rolls-Royce Goshawk Prototype Listed at $33,344
Behold the remarkable tale of the 1922 Rolls-Royce Goshawk prototype, affectionately dubbed ‘Cinderella’ by the skilled mechanics who breathed life into its engine. Lost to the annals of time, it seemingly vanished until destiny intervened.
As fate would have it, its presence was revealed beneath the shelter of a Welsh barn, hidden under farm machinery. The historical significance of this artifact eluded its owner, a collector who unknowingly possessed a treasure. He put up this fabulous vintage for auction at thirty-three thousand dollars only.
Lamborghini Miura Listed at $483,210
In a captivating tale of glamour and machines, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis bestowed a Lamborghini Miura upon popstar Stamatis Kokotas in 1969, gifting a blend of luxury and performance. Beyond his musical prowess, Kokotas was a connoisseur of automobiles and a rally driver.
Alas, in 1972, the engine, which is the heart of the Lamborghini, collapsed. Seeking revival, Kokotas entrusted the engine to repair, yet the flame of interest waned over time. This barn find was listed at auction at $483,000.
1968 Ford Mustang GT, “Bullitt” Car Listed at $3.4 million
As reported by CNN, an iconic 1968 Ford Mustang, famously associated with Steve McQueen’s movie “Bullitt” (1968), has emerged as a treasure of automotive history. Drenched in cinematic lore, the film utilized a mere two Mustangs, elevating the rarity of this discovery to remarkable heights.
A twist of fate unfolded when Hugo Sanchez chanced upon this precious relic and other vehicles in an unexpected setting – a backyard in Los Cabos, Mexico. It sold at auction for $3.4 million in 2020. We think the price is worth it.
1956 Ford Thunderbird Listed at $15,000
Originally in the possession of a Ford executive, this Thunderbird boasts a history steeped in automotive legacy. In 1965, the torch of ownership passed to another, marking a transition in its journey. However, a significant chapter began when the subsequent custodian stowed it away in a Michigan garage in 1971, leaving it to await its moment of resurgence.
While sporting a couple of absent hubcaps, its largely untouched state is a testament to its authenticity. Emanating from Clinton Township, Michigan, an eBay listing surfaces, presenting an opportunity to acquire this gem for $15,000.
Ferrari Enzo Listed at $1.1 million
This particular Ferrari Enzo was impounded by the Dubai authorities in 2012. Interpol released a claim that the person believed to be the car’s owner stole it or bought it with fraudulent funds. Only time will tell if such was indeed the case.
Since the car was not claimed after a week, the Ferrari Enzo was moved to a facility to prevent damage. Usually, it would have been sold at an auction for about one point one million dollars. We wonder where it is now.
Pontiac Firebirds Listed at $650,000
In 2014, “Fast N’ Loud” host Richard Rawlings found two Pontiac Firebird prototypes in a Connecticut barn designed by John DeLorean’s team. After restoration, these unique cars were sold for $650,000 to a North Dakota collector for museum display.
The American vehicle was built and sold from 1967 to 2002. Interestingly enough, the logo didn’t grace the hood until 1973. The sportscar almost wasn’t produced because General Motors’s bosses often declined its design.
1972 Aston Martin Listed at $69,000
This vehicle is a 1972 Aston Martin that was stored in a barn for more than three decades. It was among the final cars to be manufactured on a production line. Fans of James Bond might identify a comparable version in the film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (1969), which is often overlooked despite being a 007 classic.
This Aston Martin was originally owned by a passionate individual in 1975, who acquired it from a dealership in Thames Ditton, Surrey. The car was successfully auctioned in London in 2015 for £45,000 ($69,000). It’s not as pricey as the other cars on this list, but still a treasure.
Shelby Daytona Listed at $4 million
Following its illustrious racing career, the vehicle changed hands multiple times. The car in the image mysteriously disappeared during the 1970s. Eventually, a breakthrough occurred when the Daytona was located within a privately owned storage unit belonging to Donna O’Hara.
After O’Hara’s passing, the vehicle was sold to Dr. Frederick A. Simeone for a staggering sum of $4,000,000. Now, that is one barn find with a lot of history. Who else hopes to see this Shelby Daytona on the track again?
1966 Ferrari 275 GTB Listed at 2.3 million
In one of his episodes, Tom Cotter of “Barn Find Hunter” came across a 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB. Remarkably, this Ferrari had been parked in a garage for an extensive period and had merely accumulated 13,500 miles. Impressively, most of its original components were still intact.
Such a pristine condition is a rarity, as only a few examples in similar states can be found. It’s a vehicle that’s likely more suitable for display than regular usage. This exceptional Ferrari fetched a staggering $2.3 million at an auction.
1966 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 Listed at $159,500
Reported by Hemmings, situated in Framingham, Massachusetts, this 1966 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 served as both a dealer competition vehicle and a demonstrator car. It was later acquired by a local individual who drove it, accumulating a total of 55,000 miles on the odometer. However, in 1976, the owner stored it in a garage, where it remained dormant for approximately four decades.
Notably setting the 1966 model apart from other Shelby variations were features such as a more relaxed suspension setup, plexiglass rear-quarter windows, and a less noisy exhaust system. Eventually, the Shelby GT350 was put up for auction in 2016 in Connecticut, where it found a new owner who secured it for a price of $159,500.
1925 Bugatti Brescia Listed at $934,000
This 1925 Bugatti Brescia has emerged from a barn in France, where its owner placed it in 1975, and has remained relatively untouched, retaining all of its original components. This was once owned by the enthusiast Bernard Terrillon, and later, the present owner’s family gained possession of it in 1953.
Remarkably, it’s one of only twelve such cars that still exist. The Arcurial Motorcars auction house intended to auction the Bugatti in 2015, estimating its potential sale price to be approximately $280,000. We’re curious about who owns it now.
1964 Jaguar E-Type Listed at $58,752
In 1970, the proprietor of this 1964 Jaguar E-Type acquired it as a gift for his spouse. The couple used to frequently drive the car until the arrival of their first child prompted them to put it aside in their garage in Cheshire, located in the North West of England, as they focused on raising their family.
The vehicle remained untouched with its original owner throughout this period until it was eventually unearthed four decades later. James McWilliam from H&H Classics was responsible for selling it. the vehicle was subsequently auctioned at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, Cambridgeshire.
Ferrari F40 Listed at $450,000
The Ferrari F40 is equipped with a twin-turbo V8 engine that can reach an impressive top speed of 201 mph. Intriguingly, this specific model was once owned by Uday Hussein, the son of Saddam Hussein. He acquired the car during the Gulf War. However, following the U.S. invasion of Iraq, he left the vehicle behind and several other automobiles from his collection.
Over time, this Ferrari F40 found itself within an impound lot. Eventually, it was reported that an Iraqi collector purchased it. It raises curiosity as to whether the collector managed to acquire it at a price lower than its actual market value.
1967 Ford GT40 Listed at $7 million
Here is a 1967 Ford GT40 discovered in a local garage beneath a layer of clutter. Evidently, it had been resting there since the 1970s. The initial owner initiated a restoration project but abandoned it due to an injury. Notably, the car bore a nickname, “Salt Walther,” which referred to the infamous driver involved in a serious crash during the 1973 Indianapolis 500.
The story turns interesting as collector Thomas Shaughnessy stumbled upon this GT40 at a Steve McQueen Car Show. This prompted him to explore the find further and ultimately purchase it in 2014. Since then, Shaughnessy has undertaken efforts to restore the vehicle himself.
1969 Dodge Charger Daytona Listed at $200,000
This 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona was found in a Wisconsin farmhouse, and conversations with the proprietor led to the discovery of its interesting story. In the 1970s, the owner and his spouse traded their 1968 GMC Pickup Truck to obtain the Daytona.
Regrettably, their joy was short-lived, as around 1974, they uncovered tampering with the engine, which led to hydro-locking. Despite this setback, the family chose not to undertake repairs. However, they continued to transport the car with them whenever they relocated.
1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante Listed at $4.3 million
Here we have a scarce 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante, found in Northern England’s Gosforth garage belonging to Dr. Harold Carr. With a limited production of merely seventeen units, this car once belonged to the renowned race car driver Earl Howe.
Following Carr’s passing in 2007, his kin inherited his belongings, unaware of the vehicle’s existence. Upon its discovery, they brought the collection to a Paris auction, where experts valued it at approximately £3 million ($4.3 million). This certainly counts as an unexpected windfall.
1954 Ford Sunliner Listed at $11,000 to $37,400
Unearthed as a barn find, the 1954 Ford Sunliner holds a 239 Y block V8 engine within its frame. Impressively, this vehicle remains in relatively good condition. The owner reports that the interior has gracefully stood the test of time.
The primary hurdle for restoration lies in the corroded wires that need attention before the engine can be brought to life. A vintage Crestliner is included in this amazing, eye-catching deal as a noteworthy addition to the package.
1957 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Listed at $25,000 to $35,000
The passage of time is truly astonishing, as evidenced by the dormant state of this 1957 Chevrolet Corvette after a staggering forty years. Fortunately, a person named Mike Yager came across this treasure in 2010, and it was unveiled for the world to see.
The gem in question is a 1957 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, estimated to be valued between $25,000 to $35,000. Notably, this car later gained significant recognition, gracing the pages of numerous magazines. It’s definitely not something meant to be sitting in a barn.
1972 Datsun 240 Z Listed at $11,700 to $29,500
A tale of a 1972 Datsun 240Z unfolds as a barn-find narrative. It was left untouched for a quarter of a century due to a head gasket issue, and the car’s condition remained static. Providentially, a change of ownership occurred, leading to a comprehensive restoration endeavor.
Today, this same Datsun 240Z has been rejuvenated to its former glory, boasting a remarkable transformation from its previous state. We bet the new owners will enjoy cruising down the road with their renovated vintage Datsun barn find. We know we would.
1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS Listed at $258,500 to $599,895
The intriguing tale of the 1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS and its underground resting place unravels through the final wishes of a Texas oilman’s widow. Following her husband’s passing, she stipulated in her last will and testament that she and the cherished car should find their eternal repose together.
Their journey led them to San Antonio, where the widow’s poignant desire saw fruition as she and the remarkable automobile were interred side-by-side, bridging the earthly and automotive realms. The 37-year-old widow died from an apparent overdose of prescription drugs.
1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster Listed at $9,680,000
This exceptional and vintage Mercedes-Benz captivated attention during its era as a testament to pre-war German engineering. With dimensions exceeding 17 feet in length and 6 feet in width, housing a potent 180-horsepower engine, it’s a true relic of its time.
It’s anticipated to command a staggering $15 million at auction when immaculate, and automotive experts speculate on its potential value. However, the current state of this piece requires a touch of tender loving care before it can ascend to such heights and achieve its full potential.
1970 Dodge Daytona Superbird Pro Mod Listed at $250,000 to $300,000
Unveiled by Craig Sullivan during the 2016 race season at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) event, the 1970 Dodge Daytona Superbird Pro Mod marked its presence. Drawing inspiration from Richard Petty’s iconic car, this version showcases a weathered appearance akin to a corroded variant.
Acquired from Chip King, the vehicle adds a layer of history to its allure. The desire to discover this unique piece resting in our garage remains a fervent wish, embodying a passion for automotive history and excellence. We can only wish to be as lucky as the other people on this list.
Pontiac GTO Judge Listed at $65,000 to $185,000
Rediscovered in a barn, the GTO Judge emerges as a captivating find. Holding its own as a formidable muscle car, the 1970s Pontiac GTO Judge encapsulates excellence. The presence of a 400 V8 engine beneath the hood, coupled with a manual air intake, makes it a standout.
A simple twist of the knob, adjusting airflow, leads to a surge in horsepower, encapsulating the essence of this remarkable automobile. We don’t know whose old barn this was found in, but the owner is a lucky fellow, and this baby still looks good.
1960 Jaguar XK150 Listed at $127,552
This truly captivating tale unfolds around a battered 1960 Jaguar XK150, a purchase that defied logic. In 2021, an enthusiast invested a staggering £90,000 ($127,552) to secure this weathered gem. Most people would raise their eyebrows at spending so much in a car of this condition.
The price might have exceeded its practical value, yet rarity held sway over reason. News from Hull Live revealed the previous owner’s garage confinement since 1996, a prolonged slumber that tells a story. While battered at auction, this jaguar is bound to be restored to its former glory.
Jaguar XJ220 Listed at $500,000
While authenticity remains unconfirmed, a tale is circulating through Crank and Piston’s Mick Bramley that a discovery was made in the Qatari desert – an XJ220, a relic of automotive history. The ravages of time have not spared this vehicle, as wear and tear have left their mark, chipping away at its splendor.
The visionary design was conceived by Jaguar’s chief designer, Jim Randle. Over the years, this particular model has garnered reverence and emerged as a prized possession among avid car enthusiasts. What fascinates a lot of folks about it is that it can blast from 0 to 60 in under 4 seconds.
1967 Shelby Cobra 427 Listed at $2 Million
This 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 has seen minimal use and has low mileage. As revealed by Tom Cotter, the presenter of “Barn Find Hunter,” the car is in a favorable state except for dust accumulation. It was located in a garage in North Carolina, and the individual who possessed it was a mechanic.
Unfortunately, he passed away in 1991 and chose not to entrust anyone else with his automobiles. He decided to preserve his collection in his garage, which remained untouched. Discovering such an extraordinary find within a barn is a rare occurrence, especially one that has been well-maintained.
1956 Maserati A6G 2000 Gran Sport Berlinetta Frua Listed at $2.2 million
In addition to the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider, Roger Baillon took extraordinary measures to safeguard the 1956 Maserati A6G 2000 Gran Sport Berlinetta Frua. Despite facing financial difficulties within his company, Baillon maintained a substantial assortment of cars in his collection, although many suffered from rusting as the years went by.
Following Baillon’s and his son’s passing, his grandchildren decided to auction off his car collection at the 2015 Rétromobile Exhibition. Fortunately, this particular Maserati was in relatively decent condition and was eventually sold for $2.2 million.
1936 Bentley Listed at $601,500
Acquired by WWII pilot Charles Blackham in 1952, this 1936 Bentley boasts a unique history. The automobile was part of a minimal production run, with only six units manufactured by the company. Blackham treasured this vehicle, safeguarding it within his garage for thirty years. Following his passing at 96, the Bentley came to light.
H&H Classics, responsible for the sale, secured a price nearly doubling the initial estimates. The head of sales at H&H Classics noted the Bentley’s distinctiveness, highlighting that while the car’s body had been refreshed, its mechanical components remained the same as those of 1931.
Aston Martin DB4 Listed at $375,000-$475,000
Abandoned in the woods of Massachusetts for approximately 45 years, this Aston Martin DB4 carries a poignant tale. The distressing state it’s in is a disheartening sight, considering the rarity of its make, with the manufacturer producing fewer than a thousand units. The backstory reveals that this particular DB4 was initially dispatched from Britain to a voice actor in LA.
Subsequently, it journeyed from Colorado to Massachusetts, where it was left exposed outdoors at its owner’s residence during the 1970s. However, in 2017, it surfaced on the auction block in Arizona. Aston Martin enthusiasts anticipated a sale price between $375,000 and $475,000.
Bugatti Veyron Listed at $1.5 million
In 2015, a photograph of an abandoned Bugatti Veyron surfaced online. While this vehicle’s origins are shrouded in mystery, online sources suggest it could be located in Russia. However, it’s important to note that what follows is purely speculative conjecture from online users. According to some accounts, there’s a belief that the car was owned by a Moscow-based car dealer who suffered a rear-end collision with an Aston Martin in 2013.
While this narrative might be intriguing, verifying its accuracy is challenging. Regardless, it undoubtedly adds an element of fascination to the story. Perhaps, in the future, we’ll gain a more definitive understanding of the true source and circumstances surrounding this abandoned Bugatti Veyron.
Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster Listed at $12,845,000
The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster, captured by Darin Schnabel, took center stage at an auction. Having once been in the possession of a German baroness, the car embarked on a journey from Germany to New York in 1949 as her family sought refuge from post-war Europe.
In 1989, discovered in a Connecticut garage, this precious automobile fetched an astounding $12,845,000 when it went under the hammer. We don’t think we will see this car outside a car show. We might not be able to drive these vehicles on the road, but one can always dream.
Shelby 289 Cobra Listed at $979,000
This automobile is a Shelby 289 Cobra. It entered an auction in 2015 after spending more than 40 years stored in a barn in Vermont under the ownership of Sy Allen. The car’s journey is quite intricate: Sy Allen had acquired it from his friend Peter DeSilva in Massachusetts, who obtained it from Ed Jurist’s Vintage Car Store in New York.
Before that, the vehicle had belonged to James Wallerstein, who had purchased it from Timothy Crowley in Connecticut. As you can see, it changed hands multiple times. Finally, in 2016, the car found a new owner at a Gooding & Company sale, fetching $979,000.
1929 Bentley 4.5-litre Sports Saloon Listed at $1.08 million
In 1935, E J Harwood of Epsom, England, acquired a 1929 Bentley 4.5-litre Sports Saloon from a family member. The car’s earlier history reveals that an N.H. player initially owned it and had a coachbuilder install a saloon body on the chassis.
Harwood continued to possess the car until 1985, when it was relegated to the garage due to fuel-related issues. Over the subsequent three decades, the vehicle remained untouched, yet it exhibited favorable conditions upon examination, notwithstanding the engine seizing up. Eventually, in 2015, Bentley found a new owner who paid $1.08 million for it.
1968 Mustang Fastback GT
Offered for sale on eBay in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, was a 1968 Mustang fastback GT. Despite being described as “stored under a tarp” and lacking a motor, the bidding for this Mustang reached an impressive nearly $15,000. Ford initially offered the automobile with different engine choices.
Considering the car’s evident signs of wear and tear, this price is quite remarkable. It shows classic Mustangs’ enduring appeal and value, even in conditions that might not be considered ideal. Fun fact: This was the first car that doesn’t say FORD on the hood.
1962 Jaguar Mark 2
Is anyone else with a 1962 Jaguar Mark 2 quietly tucked away in their barn? Probably not. But don’t fret because the silver lining is that this vehicle wouldn’t require excessive tender loving care to restore it to running condition.
Just picture yourself cruising around in this timeless classic beauty. The thought alone is quite alluring! We don’t know where the 1962 Jaguar Mark 2 from the image is parked, but it looks in good condition. Even if it might be driven regularly, restoring it won’t be too difficult.
1962 Porsche 356
Tucked away in our upcoming barn discovery is a 1962 Porsche 356. This particular Porsche has an interesting history – it was initially purchased by a German priest who eventually relocated to the United States. Who said priests can’t drive fast?
What’s remarkable is that the car retains its original gray color and, considering its age, remains in remarkably good condition. We don’t know how the Porsche was before it got to the priest’s hands or how much it cost at auction, but that is one amazing car.
1933 Plymouth
Behold one very incredible discovery! However, we don’t know whose barn this 1933 Plymouth was unearthed from. This is a Plymouth from the 1933 production year, marking a significant evolution. The PC model introduced a fresh 6-cylinder engine.
It was a notable upgrade from the previous 4-cylinder flyweight engine. What’s even more fascinating is that this very engine would continue to power Plymouth vehicles until the year 1960. The historical significance of this find is truly remarkable.