The Mecum Auctions at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee saw high drama on Saturday as a jaw-dropping $25 million bid was placed on a classic car owned by comedian and car enthusiast Jerry Seinfeld. However, despite the staggering offer, Seinfeld declined to part with the prized vehicle, leaving bidders and spectators stunned.

After Saturday’s event, that’s how auction house Mecum tagged the 1969 Porsche 917K, initially purchased by famed actor Steve McQueen and later acquired by Seinfeld. The iconic car, featured in the 1971 film Le Mans, was billed as a likely contender to become the most expensive Porsche sale to date, but no lucky bidder ultimately sealed the deal
Porsche
Porsche
Porsche
 

Seinfeld purchased the car in 2001 and recently commissioned a multi-million-dollar renovation to restore the Porsche to its original “Le Mans” condition. The Porsche, identified as chassis No. 917-022, boasts a Gulf blue and orange exterior and a black and red interior, features that have become synonymous with its storied history and cinematic legacy.

The Porsche’s established pedigree made it a centerpiece of the 2025 Mecum Auction in Kissimmee, Florida. John Kraman, the former auction commentator and analyst for Mecum Auctions who passed away on Sunday, told Robb Report that the Porsche’s history could have made the auction “unlike anything seen before” in the world of car enthusiasts.

Known for his love of classic and exotic cars, Seinfeld has amassed an enviable garage of rare automobiles over the years, many of which are considered works of art in the collector community. The $25 million bid would have marked a historic moment for Mecum Kissimmee, one of the largest car auctions in the world.

While the auction’s top offers are known to reach jaw-dropping sums, this particular bid was among the most talked-about moments of the event. Despite the excitement, Seinfeld stood firm on his decision to retain the car, demonstrating the sentimental or intrinsic value it holds for him.
 
For now, the car remains in Seinfeld’s collection, but the excitement surrounding this auction moment will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the event’s most unforgettable highlights.