A 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L "Lusso" Berlinetta was the lead lot of RM Auctions' February 4 sale in Paris, selling for $1.6m.

The auction house explained the model's unique appeal: "When new, hundreds of enthusiasts wanted one to call their own. Celebrity petrol heads like Steve McQueen and Eric Clapton owned Lussos, only adding to its allure.

The Ferrari 250 'Lusso' is among the most desirable cars of its generation

"However, Ferraris like this were not meant to be handed out to everyone who wanted one.

"Demand outweighed supply, resulting in even more Lusso-mania. With 350 produced by the end of the second and final year of production in 1964, this was a car clearly destined to become a future classic."

A 1964 Porsche Carrera was another highlight, with a final bid of $1.4m.

The model was built for competition, with a design based on the fast and lightweight spyder. Its first owner was Fritz Leinenweber, a well-known German racing driver, who took it to victory in a number of events throughout the 1960s.

A 1963 Mercedes Benz SL Roadster made $1.2m.

The Roadster was an instant hit upon release, its stunning looks ensuring it found its way into the collections of celebrities and royalty the world over.

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