A 1936 Bugatti 57SC Atlantic has become what is thought to be the most expensive car ever sold.

The car, from the estate of renowned Bugatti collector the late Dr Peter Williamson, was sold by private treaty by Gooding & Co. The company won’t say how much it sold for, or who it was sold to. Dr Williamson, a leading neurologist, died in June 2008 and the bulk of his collection was sold by Gooding & Co in August 2008 for $ 15.5 million, much of which was donated to medical foundations.

The Atlantic, chassis number 57374, was the first production model, identified by its low-set headlights that protrude less than those of the other two Atlantics built. Dr Williamson bought it in 1971 for $ 59,000 and spent years having it restored back to original condition. He was rewarded with a coveted Best of Show at the 2003 Pebble Beach Conours d’Elegance.

In the February 2009 issue of Octane we revealed the 25 most valuable cars, placing the Atlantic as the second most valuable car in the world, with an estimated value of £25 million. Number one was Mercedes-Benz 300SLR ‘722’, which is owned by Mercedes and unlikely to be sold in the foreseeable future. Click here to view 'The 25 most valuable cars' feature online.