Inside Barrett-Jackson’s Collector Car Phenomenon

Inside Barrett-Jackson’s Collector Car Phenomenon

When it comes to collector car auctions, few names carry as much prestige as Barrett-Jackson. Founded in 1971 by Tom Barrett and Russ Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona, the company has grown from a small local event into one of the most celebrated automotive lifestyle experiences in the world. Known as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions,” Barrett-Jackson hosts major auctions in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Las Vegas, and Houston, drawing thousands of enthusiasts, celebrity bidders, and rare vehicles each year. 

$2.6M Corvette ZR1X Tops Barrett-Jackson Auction

At the January 2026 Scottsdale Auction, the spotlight belonged to 2026 Chevrolet Corvette Stars & Steel Limited Edition ZR1X, which hammered for an astounding $2.6 million, making it the highest-priced car sold at the event. What made this sale even more meaningful was its purpose: 100% of the hammer price benefitted the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting first responders, veterans, and Gold Star families. Turning automotive passion into impactful philanthropy.

The  ZR1X is no ordinary supercar. It’s Inspired by America’s quickest production car and features a custom “Stars & Steel” livery, part of Chevrolet’s celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. The vehicle symbolizes both performance excellence and national pride. Its sale underscores the blend of rarity, performance, and purpose that defines many of the headline lots at Barrett-Jackson auctions.

Beyond the Bidding: What Keeps Barrett-Jackson in the Spotlight

So what keeps enthusiasts and collectors turning out year after year? Barrett-Jackson isn’t just an auction. It’s an event that blends automotive culture, entertainment, and community. First and foremost, the auctions are known for their no-reserve format, meaning every car crosses the block without a minimum price and sells to the highest bidder. This creates excitement, unpredictability, and often remarkable results.

The Scottsdale Auction alone typically features nearly 2,000 vehicles and generates well over $190 million in sales annually, attracting bidders and spectators from around the globe. Beyond the cars themselves, Barrett-Jackson events include lifestyle experiences, celebrity sightings, vendor marketplaces, and extensive live media coverage. All contributing to a festive atmosphere that celebrates automotive passion in all its forms.

Perhaps most importantly, Barrett-Jackson has built a reputation for its charitable impact. Over the decades, charity lots like the recent ZR1X sale, have raised millions for causes ranging from medical research to veterans’ support, reinforcing the auction’s relevance beyond pure commerce. 

A Lesson in Value, Presentation, and Timing

Much like the success seen at Barrett-Jackson, today’s real estate market rewards properties that are thoughtfully presented, strategically marketed, and positioned to attract the right audience. The record-breaking ZR1X sale is a powerful reminder that value is not just about price, it’s about storytelling, exclusivity, and experience. For real estate agents, this serves as inspiration to elevate every listing, showcase each home’s unique character, and approach every transaction with precision and professionalism. By applying these same principles, we can continue to deliver exceptional results for our clients and stand out in an increasingly competitive market.