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UkJerry Seinfeld Turns Down $25 Million For His Iconic Porsche Like It’s Nothing
Update 1/20: There’s something inherently surreal about watching people casually toss around millions like Monopoly money. Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee served up a prime example of this on Saturday night when a staggering $25 million bid was placed on Jerry Seinfeld’s 1969 Porsche 917K, a car he purchased back in 2001 for an undisclosed price.
So, what did Seinfeld do? He passed. Apparently, the offer didn’t meet his undisclosed reserve price. Not that he’s exactly hurting for cash. With a Bloomberg-estimated net worth of $1.1 billion, Jerry’s not exactly counting pennies between Netflix royalties and coffee runs. Maybe the bidders should’ve sweetened the deal with a puffy shirt or some Junior Mints.
Photos Mecum
From there, the car changed hands several times, with many of its owners putting it to use in actual racing. The first to purchase it from McQueen was racing driver Reinhold Joest, who later sold it to fellow racer Brian Redman. After that, it was acquired by yet another racer, Richard Attwood, who held onto it from 1977 until 2020. Following Attwood, Porsche collector Frank Gallogly owned the car briefly for about a year.
Since then, it’s been under the ownership of none other than Jerry Seinfeld. After buying it, the comedian and actor brought it to several events including the Monterey Historic Automobile Races and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Even without its celebrity past, it’s totally worthy of attending such shows.
Ready for Its Next Close-Up
For those wondering if this car is still ready to tear up a track, the flat-12 received a full restoration as recently as August 2024, ensuring it’s more than just a pretty face. It’s set to cross the auction block at Mecum’s Kissimmee, Florida event on January 18th, and you can bet this is going to be one of the priciest, most talked-about lots.
If you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of racing, cinematic, and celebrity history all rolled into one ridiculously gorgeous package, this 917K is it. Just be sure to check your bank account as you’ll need more than a Netflix special or two to afford it.
Mecum Kissimmee: Jerry Seinfeld Declines $25 Million Bid for Iconic Porsche
The Mecum Auctions at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee saw high drama on Saturday as a jaw-dropping $25 million bid was placed on a classic car owned by comedian and car enthusiast Jerry Seinfeld. However, despite the staggering offer, Seinfeld declined to part with the prized vehicle, leaving bidders and spectators stunned.
After Saturday’s event, that’s how auction house Mecum tagged the 1969 Porsche 917K, initially purchased by famed actor Steve McQueen and later acquired by Seinfeld. The iconic car, featured in the 1971 film Le Mans, was billed as a likely contender to become the most expensive Porsche sale to date, but no lucky bidder ultimately sealed the deal
Seinfeld purchased the car in 2001 and recently commissioned a multi-million-dollar renovation to restore the Porsche to its original “Le Mans” condition. The Porsche, identified as chassis No. 917-022, boasts a Gulf blue and orange exterior and a black and red interior, features that have become synonymous with its storied history and cinematic legacy.
Known for his love of classic and exotic cars, Seinfeld has amassed an enviable garage of rare automobiles over the years, many of which are considered works of art in the collector community. The $25 million bid would have marked a historic moment for Mecum Kissimmee, one of the largest car auctions in the world.
While the auction’s top offers are known to reach jaw-dropping sums, this particular bid was among the most talked-about moments of the event. Despite the excitement, Seinfeld stood firm on his decision to retain the car, demonstrating the sentimental or intrinsic value it holds for him.
For now, the car remains in Seinfeld’s collection, but the excitement surrounding this auction moment will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the event’s most unforgettable highlights.