Jerry Seinfeld Rejects $25M Bid for Rare Porsche at Florida Auction

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A rare 1969 Porsche 917K, owned by comedian Jerry Seinfeld, became the center of attention at the Mecum Auctions event at Osceola Heritage Park on Saturday when a jaw-dropping $25 million bid was placed. Despite the staggering offer, Seinfeld declined to sell the iconic car, leaving bidders and spectators stunned.

The Porsche, originally owned by actor Steve McQueen and later acquired by Seinfeld in 2001, is one of the most storied vehicles in automotive history. It gained fame after appearing in the 1971 film “Le Mans” and is identified as chassis No. 917-022. The car features a Gulf blue and orange exterior with a black and red interior, meticulously restored to its original condition in a multi-million-dollar renovation commissioned by Seinfeld.

John Kraman, a former Mecum Auctions commentator and analyst who passed away on Sunday, had previously told Robb Report that the Porsche’s history could have made the auction “unlike anything seen before” in the world of car enthusiasts. The vehicle was expected to set a record as the most expensive Porsche ever sold.

Seinfeld, known for his passion for classic and exotic cars, has built an impressive collection of rare automobiles over the years. The $25 million bid would have marked a historic moment for Mecum Kissimmee, one of the largest car auctions in the world. However, Seinfeld’s decision to retain the car highlighted its sentimental or intrinsic value to him.

The auction, which attracts high-profile bidders and collectors annually, is no stranger to eye-popping offers. Yet, the drama surrounding Seinfeld’s Porsche stood out as one of the most talked-about moments of the event. For now, the car remains in Seinfeld’s collection, but the excitement of the near-sale will be remembered as a defining highlight of the 2025 Mecum Auction.