Wolf of Wall Street Lamborghini Showdown Sparks $2M Battle!

In an intriguing turn of events that could be seen as either an attempt to steal the spotlight or a strategic move akin to icing the kicker in the NFL, the automotive world is abuzz with excitement. Back in August, RM Sotheby's made waves by revealing its plan to auction a rare 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary, clad in pristine Bianco Polo, and notably featured in Martin Scorsese's iconic film, "The Wolf of Wall Street." This particular Countach, one of only twelve ever produced, survived its Hollywood stint unscathed, unlike its on-screen counterpart.

The second Bianco Polo 25th Anniversary Countach, subjected to severe damage during filming due to the main character's intoxicated driving, had remained shrouded in mystery until now. Bonhams has just announced its intention to auction this cinematic star during the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix festivities, presenting it in the exact condition it was when removed from the film set.

Dubbed the "Hero Car" in the listing, Bonhams is making quite a spectacle about the Lamborghini's screen time—approximately 3 minutes and 11 seconds alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, compared to RM Sotheby's unharmed car, which clocked in around 16 seconds on screen, some of which was captured by a second unit filming a stunt driver rather than DiCaprio himself. It's a debate reminiscent of concours judges deliberating over the value of patina and original condition versus a fully restored state, only in this case, it revolves around the potential worth of a famous crashed Countach versus its unscathed counterpart.

Both auction houses have set pre-sale estimates in the $1.5 million to $2 million range. Bonhams, however, sweetens the deal by including a certificate of authenticity, DiCaprio's costume from the film, the director's chair, a clapboard signed by Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Margot Robbie, two crew hoodies, and two DVDs of the film. The twist in this drama might just be someone shelling out $2 million for a wrecked Lamborghini and having to declare two DVDs to customs on the way home.

The star associations alone aren't the sole justification for these estimates. Delving into the backstory, it's revealed that although the real Jordan Belfort claimed to be driving a Mercedes on the cinematic night in question, Scorsese opted for a Lamborghini to up the ante. Attempting to use a replica proved futile, as it didn't crumple convincingly. Thus, Scorsese not only acquired a Countach but specifically chose the Silver Anniversary editions. With only 23 reported to have made their way to America in Bianco/Bianco, these cars hold significant rarity. Hagerty values an example in good condition at $440,000.

Mark your calendars for November 25 when Bonhams' On the Grid: The Abu Dhabi Auction takes center stage. Two weeks later, RM Sotheby's New York auction follows suit. The suspense builds as enthusiasts wonder if one bold bidder will aim to secure both, perhaps embodying the spirit of a wolf in the world of high-stakes automotive auctions.

To find out more, visit Bonhams Auctions >

_{Images Copyright Bonhams.}