A 2017 LaFerrari Aperta became the most valuable 21st century car ever sold - at RM Sotheby’s sale at Ferrari’s HQ in Maranello last week.

Titled Leggenda e Passione, the auction featured an enormous selection of classic models from throughout the marque’s history.

The Aperta is a supremely powerful hybrid 

The Aperta realised $9.9m, a sterling result considering it hasn’t even been built yet.

It’s to be delivered to the buyer in an eye-catching flame red, complete with a pair of white racing stripes and a black leather interior.

The Aperta is the convertible version of the LaFerrari, the marque’s first foray into mild hybrid technology. While it boasts a top speed in excess of 217 mph, it also offers a dramatically increased fuel economy.  

The Aperta has received a rapturous response from Ferrari fans. All 210 specimens sold almost immediately.

All of the proceeds from the sale of this car will go to Save the Children.

Auction manager Augustin Sabatie-Garat said: “The sale exceeded all our expectations and the enormous sum raised for charity through the sale of the LaFerrari Aperta was a wonderful way to end the evening.”

Other highlights included a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider, which realised $9.3m.

The California Spider was designed exclusively for the American market.

Its stunning looks have made it a must-have for collectors. In 2015 one alloy-bodied specimen sold for $18.5m – still the record for a 250 GT.

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