Classic car aficionados not only love the pleasure of owning these objects of desire but also enjoy the atmosphere at the auction houses where these cars are offered as coveted masterpieces. Such was the scene at the latest auction organized by Sotheby’s in London on September 7, where more than 70 classic sports cars were offered for sale.

Among the lots that found lucky buyers, we especially loved three European models, one German, one English and the inevitable Italian, each representative of the history and tradition of their manufacturers.

1956 Porsche 356 A Carrera 1500 GS Coupé by Reutter

This is a flagship model for the famous German sports car manufacturer. Already in 1956 Porsche introduced the concept of “downsizing” that dominates the market today. They set out to produce powerful and comfortable vehicles with smaller and more efficient engines. The goal was largely achieved with this emblematic model of a surprisingly fast car with an engine of just 100 horsepower and 1498 cc. This model– highly sought by collectors for its rounded beautiful design–perfectly represents the identity of the brand. It sold for $470,000.

1929 Bentley 4.5 Tourer by Cadogan

This typically English luxury sports car represented a remarkable achievement for its period, as it was able to exceed 120 miles per hour. During the four years of production of this exclusive model, inspired by the Bentley winner at Le Mans, only 655 copies with this type of engine were produced, which has made it quite coveted among today’s collectors. This beautiful example of Bentley’s engineering, with large round headlights and a huge front grille, offers a huge convertible interior lined with fine leather, and instruments made of wood and polished metals. It is a perfect summary of the aesthetic lines and mechanics the brand has maintained throughout its history. This jewel was sold for $654,000.

1964 Maserati Mistral 3.7 Spyder

Representing Italy—apart from the numerous Ferraris offered—a beautiful two-seater convertible Berlinetta by the iconic trident automaker, stood out. It is one of the only 14 copies made famous by Hollywood starlets like the beautiful Diana Dors, the English Marilyn Monroe, and built with right-hand drive. Repeatedly described as the best design from Pietro Frua, this fast and modern-looking model—in its version for the English market—was sold at auction for $820,000.

Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider designed by Scaglietti.

Other beautiful units that exemplified the high level of quality of the cars selected for the occasion failed to sell at Sotheby’s. Among them a stunning 1966 Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada (estimated between 770,000 and 1.1 million US dollars), a very rare 1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider designed by Scaglietti (estimated between $3.121 million and $ 3.75 million) and an exquisite 1954 Aston Martin DB2/4 Drophead Coupe (estimated between $344,000 and $420,000). Review here other classic car auctions by Sotheby’s. ■