The ‘largest car collection in the world’ goes up for auction for tragic reasons – classic vehicles sell for just $650

A GIANT collection of hard-to-find vehicles sold at auction for thousands of dollars less than their predicted market value.

Classic cars have come under fire after an iconic vehicle museum closed following the death of its owner.

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The Mullin Automotive Museum officially closed in February 2024, following the passing of its owner, businessman and philanthropist Peter Mullin, in September 2023.

Mullin, a supporter of Roman Catholic charities, local universities and automotive history, has collected nearly 150 early 20th-century French vehicles at the museum.

Situated in sunny Oxnard, California, the Mullin Automotive Museum is like stepping into a car time machine.

Cars spanned dozens of classes, from standard passenger vehicles to luxury sports cars.

Multimillion-dollar Bugatti hypercars sat alongside Citroën’s entry-level models from the 1940s.

The museum was dedicated to educating the public about the sweeping art deco designs of 20th-century French automotive engineering.

The museum’s showroom also displayed cars in different states of repair: Dozens were ready for the road, while others awaited restoration as ongoing projects.

However, the collection was known worldwide for its selectivity.

It was considered “one of the largest automobile museums in the world” by The Autopiano.

But when Mullins passed away at age 82, his wife, Merle, announced that the museum would close.

“Sharing these ‘rolling sculptures’ and beautiful art with others was Peter’s true passion, and the museum helped bring that vision to life,” she said in a statement.

“We are deeply grateful to our staff, faculty, volunteers, visitors and supporters who have given their time and passion over the past 13 years.”

BUSINESS FOR DECADES

Several vehicles have already transferred ownership.

A 1960 Citroën ID19 – known during its production period as a specialist in low-cost technology – was one of the cars sold on the museum lot.

The car featured Citroën’s iconic hydropneumatic suspension system, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MULLIN AUTO COLLECTION

The automobile museum boasted a dazzling array of coveted vehicles…

The Mullin Automotive Museum was Peter Mullin’s love letter to French automotive engineering.

Most of the cars were mid-20th century vintage vehicles with sophisticated designs.

Dozens of curvy and ingenious cars lined the floor of the museum’s showroom.

The collection featured Bugattis hypercars, entry-level Citroëns and early EVs from Coda.

Car enthusiasts believed it was one of the “greatest collections in the world,” according to The Autopiano.

It was available in several body styles, including sedans, station wagons, and convertibles.

The company sold dozens of copies of the car after it gained popularity for its distinctive appearance and advanced technology.

ID19 from Mullin’s collection had an estimated value of around $4,000 to $6,000.

But the car transferred ownership after someone invested $650.

Mullin initially purchased the vehicle nine years ago.

The auction closed on April 25 after the museum’s owners sold dozens of cars.

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