Key Takeaways

• A unique 1990 Monte Carlo Automotive Centenaire, one of five in existence, will be auctioned by Broad Arrow Auctions in October 2026.
• The first Centenaire is estimated to fetch between $967,000 and $1,290,000, highlighting its rarity and historical significance.
• This model features a V12 engine from Lamborghini and has a documented history, making it a notable collectible.

About the Auction and the Centenaire

The auction for the 1990 Monte Carlo Automotive (MCA) Centenaire is scheduled for October 9, 2026, in Knokke-Heist, Belgium, during the second annual Broad Arrow Zoute Concours Auction, in partnership with Zoute Grand Prix Car Week. This particular Centenaire is significant as it is the first-ever produced model and one of only five existing globally.

According to Broad Arrow Auctions, the estimated value of this Centenaire ranges from $967,000 to $1,290,000, emphasizing the challenges of pricing such a rare vehicle. The car features the original chassis and was instrumental in the development and presentation of the Centenaire line, further enhancing its value as a collectible.

Historical Significance

The first Centenaire showcases the world’s inaugural road car equipped with a carbon fiber chassis, a milestone in automotive engineering. Initially designated EL0002, it spent about a decade at Lamborghini’s Sant’Agata Bolognese factory before being gifted to MCA founder Fulvio Ballabio in the early 2000s.

Currently refinished in its original Ivory White color with a striking red leather interior, this color scheme pays homage to the colors of Monaco. The car is equipped with a powerful 5.2-liter V12 engine, the same as that found in the Lamborghini Countach 5000QV. This engine produces 455 horsepower and features a six-speed manual transmission from ZF.

After Ballabio, the Centenaire changed hands several times. It underwent a blue paint restoration in 2007 and was showcased at Rétromobile. Its current owner acquired the vehicle in 2014, and approximately two years later, it was restored back to its original color of Ivory White.

Documentation and Future Prospects

The Centenaire’s extensive documentation is a key aspect of its historical value, including a contract between Lamborghini and Fulvio Ballabio for the supply of V12 engines. This robust history file strengthens the case for collectors who appreciate the story behind the car.

As the auction approaches, all eyes will be on this captivating piece of automotive history. The final bid may exceed its $1,290,000 estimate, depending on bidder interest, furthering the excitement surrounding this unique auction event.

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