In April, RM Sotheby’s is forgoing the traditional auction events for a unique trio of sales that emphasise discretion. Shift Online is one of the auctions lined up for this month, featuring a collection of nearly 100 supercars from across Europe and the Middle East. It is an online-only auction, with bidding open between the 23rd and 28th of April. Lots include a 1971 Ferrari Dino 246 GT by Scaglietti, a 1988 Bentley Continental Convertible by Mulliner Park Ward, and a 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition.
Perhaps more intriguing are two sealed auctions, also scheduled for the end of the month, featuring a truly distinctive selection of lots.
The Gianni Agnelli Collection
Gianni Agnelli held the distinction of being the wealthiest man in modern Italian history and was also the principal shareholder of Fiat. Over the course of his tenure, he controlled over 4% of Italy’s GDP and 16.5% of industrial research investment. Nicknamed ‘L’Avvocato’, or ‘The Lawyer’, Gianni was seen as the most influential figure in Italian business between the 1960s and 1980s and was considered to be the ‘King of Italy’. His influence extended beyond the realm of business; known for his eclectic fashion sense, he shaped trends in the Italian fashion industry and beyond.
As the grandson of Fiat’s founder, Gianni became the company’s heir apparent after losing his father at the age of 14. Under his leadership, Fiat became the most prominent car brand in Italy and a significant presence across Europe.
Gianni was a fan of his own cars and owned several custom-built Fiats, as well as cars from other companies he had business interests in. The trio of cars being put up for auction this month are a perfect reflection of his multifaceted tastes and are fantastic examples of what Fiat could produce.
The most iconic piece in his collection is a 1974 Fiat 130 Familiare, which was commissioned specially for him and remained under his ownership for 11 years. Only three 130 Familiares were ever built, all for members of the Agnelli family, and this is the first of them. Gianni had the car painted silver with faux wood trim, and it is the only one to have a roof rack with wicker basket installed on top, making it instantly recognisable. The car saw plenty of use in the winter months, when Gianni used the wicker basket to ferry his skis to and from the slopes of St. Moritz.
Aside from his Familiare, Gianni also had a custom Panda 4x4 for winter travel. This was the ‘Mk2’ edition of the Panda, owned and used by Gianni for 15 years before it went into the care of its current consignor. It was recently restored to its original condition, an extensive process that was completed in early 2025. This remains one of the finest Fiat Pandas ever produced.
The third vehicle is one of two prototype models built by the noted coachbuilder Zagato for Lancia. It was acquired by Gianni, who used it for two years. The car, known as the Lancia Thema Familiare, bears a striking resemblance to the original Familiare, a neat coincidence that brings thematic cohesion to this rare trio. Bidding for the lots is open until 24th April.
Six Cars, One Truck - The Delivery Mileage Porsche Collection
It is any collector’s dream to have some of the best sports cars ever made in their collection and to store them together in such a way that they can be brought out to play any time and anywhere. That was the impetus behind the creation of this lot, in which six Porsche 911s from the legendary 991-generation come bundled together with a transport truck.
The collection comprises a GT3 Touring, 911 R, GT3 RS, GT3, GT3 Cup and GT3 Cup R. All of them are practically brand new, registering a maximum of 50 km of mileage. They have all had only a single owner and some of them have had minor servicing done, primarily oil and brake fluid changes.
Each car also has some fantastic optional features and detailing included, among them a Bose sound system, 918 Spyder-style seats, full leather interiors and carbon fibre parts. From imposing black to more striking options like Indian Red and Racing Yellow, the colours alone make for an impressive display.
Bringing it all together is a Rolfo Auriga transport truck with a trailer. It also has specific upgrades designed to accommodate its stunning cargo and has only registered 500km, presented in mint condition. The truck’s engine meets EURO 6 regulations and it comes with an EEC Certificate of Conformity, allowing it to be easily registered across the EU.
This is without a doubt one of the most unconventional lots that has gone up for auction recently, showcasing an enviable collection of 991-generation Porsche 911s in a uniquely playful way. Bidding for this lot is open until the 30th of April.
