As avid lovers of cars from all eras, the entire Classic Driver office and wider community were saddened when we heard the news that Peter Mullin, a renowned businessman, car collector and philanthropist, passed away in September of last year. We were saddened further upon hearing the news that his incredible museum, the Mullin Automotive Museum would be closing its doors in early 2024, leaving behind a legacy in the admiration of classic and collectable cars. Now, on the 26th April of this year, inside the museum itself, Gooding & Company will host Selections from the Mullin Collection, a chance for buyers to get their hands on some of the collection’s most prized machines.

Within the sale, Peter Mullin’s world-renowned collection, consisting of the finest and most exquisite French and European automobiles, will be heading under the hammer, all of which have been beautifully maintained and enjoyed over the years. Of the many Bugattis, Auto Unions and Hispano-Suizas on offer, it is the Delage D8-120 from 1937 that our money would be spent on. 

This maroon-shaded drop-top is not only utterly divine to look at, but also a true powerhouse, capable of reaching nearly 100 mph in unrivalled opulence and style. Henri Chapron’s coachwork is truly breath-taking, with chrome and leather aplenty. For the lucky few, the D8 was the go-to when showcasing wealth and power, with the owner list including King Gustav V of Sweden, King Alexander of Yugoslavia, and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, not to mention leading businessmen, politicians, and film stars of the day.

As the Concours of Elegance season begins to shift into gear, cars as unique and rare as these pre-war Bugattis and Hispano-Suizas are a golden ticket into some of the world’s finest events, all of which have lived a life of constant care and maintenance while in the hands of the Mullin Collection team. While we are all sad to see these beautiful cars head to auction, we’re also delighted to see the Mullin legacy will live on with passionate new custodians carrying on Peter's legacy. 

The Gooding & Company Mullins Collection Sale will take place on April 16th, with many of the lots being offered with no reserve.