The world of classic car collecting is filled with passionate individuals, but few have made a lasting impact quite like Fredric "Fred" Leydorf, Jr. A skilled mechanical engineer and a dedicated automotive enthusiast, Leydorf spent his life preserving some of the rarest and most iconic vehicles in history. His name is closely associated with vintage Ferraris, rare Porsches, and a deep involvement in the Ferrari Club of America (FCA). Leydorf played an important role in the club’s expansion, offering his expertise and unwavering support to fellow enthusiasts. Now, his remarkable car collection is set to be auctioned at the prestigious 2025 Amelia Island car auction on 6th – 7th March, 2025, at the Omni Amelia Island Resort in Florida.
Beyond being a collector, Leydorf was also a historian, writer, and photographer. He frequently contributed to FCA publications, documenting automotive history and sharing his knowledge with the community. His generosity and willingness to help others earned him great respect, making him a central figure in the Ferrari world.
Among the many prized cars in Leydorf’s collection, one stands above the rest—the 1955 Ferrari 375 MM Berlinetta, chassis number 0472 AM. Originally commissioned by Alfred Ducato, a banking executive from California, this Ferrari was built with meticulous craftsmanship. Its stunning Azzurro blue exterior, contrasting black roof, and natural leather interior made it an immediate showstopper.
The car changed hands over the years before finding its way into Leydorf’s collection in 1969. Fascinated by its origins, he personally reached out to Ferrari’s legendary engineer, Aurelio Lampredi, to gain deeper insights into its design and mechanical components. His passion for authenticity led to an extensive restoration, and in 2006, the car made a triumphant return to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance—exactly 50 years after its original appearance at the same prestigious event.
The upcoming Gooding Christie’s auction at Amelia Island will showcase the Ferrari 375 MM Berlinetta as its crown jewel, with estimates suggesting it could sell for between $8 million and $10 million. The car remains in exceptional condition, retaining its original engine, gearbox, and differential, a testament to Leydorf’s careful preservation.
The auction will also feature other remarkable vehicles from his collection, including rare Porsches and classic Lamborghinis, each representing a piece of automotive history. Collectors and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this event, as it presents a rare opportunity to own a vehicle meticulously maintained by one of the most respected figures in the car-collecting world.
Set to take place on March 6 and 7, 2025, at the Omni Amelia Island Resort in Florida, the Amelia Island car auction is among the most anticipated automotive events of the year. Traditionally held before The Amelia Concours d’Elegance, these auctions attract collectors from around the world, featuring historically significant cars from renowned figures. In past years, vehicles owned by celebrities such as Jerry Seinfeld have taken center stage. This year, the spotlight will be on Fred Leydorf’s treasured collection, making it one of the highlights of the event.
While the Ferrari 375 MM Berlinetta is the star of the auction, several other iconic vehicles will also be available for bidding. Here are some standout models from Leydorf’s collection:
This Porsche, estimated to sell between $900,000 and $1.2 million, is a true racing legend. Built by renowned coachbuilder Reutter, it has a rich motorsport history, having competed in top racing events across Europe, including Zandvoort, Avus, Solitude, and Monza. More recently, it won First in Class and Best Porsche at the 2017 Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, solidifying its status as a car auction collector’s dream.
Expected to sell for between $175,000 and $225,000, this Porsche 356 B Roadster features elegant coachwork by Drauz and is finished in the rare Fjord Green color. With its pristine condition and timeless design, this car exemplifies Porsche’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
A standout among classic Lamborghinis, this Miura is finished in Rosso Corsa (racing red) with a Skay Nero (black) interior and dark blue inserts. Formerly owned by Giulio Vignale, the nephew of renowned coachbuilder Alfredo Vignale, this car has an incredible history. It underwent a meticulous restoration by Miura specialists Carrozzeria Cremonini and Top Motors, ensuring its authenticity. With just over 7,800 kilometers on the odometer, it is estimated to fetch between $2.5 million and $3 million at the car auction.
One of only 108 ever built, this Porsche 904 Carrera GTS is an essential piece of racing history. Finished in silver metallic with a blue interior, this car originally belonged to German racer Gerhard Koch. It boasts an impressive track record, including victories at the Nürburgring and the Grand Prix de Paris. Retaining many of its original components, it is expected to sell for between $1.5 million and $1.8 million.
This exceptionally well-preserved Fiat, designed by Fabio Luigi Rapi, features a distinctive front-end design and secondary lower lights. Originally finished in Verde Metallizzata (light green) with a beige leather interior, it has retained its original components for over 70 years. With an expected price range of $1 million to $1.4 million, this car holds a rare ASI Gold status, signifying its outstanding originality and making it a highlight of the car auction.
A true racing machine, the Porsche 914/6 GT is one of only 12 factory-built endurance race cars. It was actively raced in Europe, securing multiple podium finishes. In 2019, it underwent a two-year restoration, returning it to its original factory specifications. With an estimated auction price between $850,000 and $1 million, this Porsche is a must-have for collectors of historic race cars.
Fred Leydorf’s impact on the automotive world extends beyond his impressive collection. His dedication to preserving rare automobiles, his role in growing the Ferrari Club of America, and his willingness to share his knowledge made him a respected figure among collectors. His meticulous approach to restoration ensured that these vehicles were not just preserved but celebrated.
As the 2025 Amelia Island car auction approaches, enthusiasts and collectors will have a unique opportunity to acquire some of the most well-preserved classic cars ever assembled. Each vehicle in Leydorf’s collection carries a story, a legacy of passion, and an unmatched level of care. This auction is not just a sale; it’s a celebration of a lifetime dedicated to automotive excellence.
