This magnificent machine, showcased by Mercedes-Benz at the 1930 New York National Automobile Show before seemingly finding its way to France, embodies the pinnacle of pre-war automotive design and engineering. The price tag reflects not just the Mercedes-Benz name, but also the rarity and provenance of this particular model. For those exploring the “1929 mercedes gazelle price,” it’s crucial to understand the distinction: the Gazelle often refers to replica cars, while the 710 SS represents the zenith of original Mercedes-Benz luxury and performance from that era.
The Sport Tourer body, with its flowing fenders gracefully arching over the wheels, hints at the artistry of Howard “Dutch” Darrin. A prominent American coachbuilder based in Paris during the early 1930s, Darrin’s influence is unmistakable in the car’s elegant lines. “The wings [fenders] are very special, and the general line of the car is very Darrin,” noted Matthieu Lamoure, managing director of Artcurial’s motorcar department, emphasizing the design’s distinctive character. This 1929 Mercedes-Benz isn’t merely about aesthetics; it’s about raw power and speed. Boasting a top speed of approximately 124 miles per hour, this aerodynamic marvel retains its original body and engine, further amplifying its value and appeal to discerning collectors. Adding to its desirability, this particular 710 SS had never been offered at auction before, making its Rétromobile appearance a truly unique opportunity.
While the 1929 Mercedes-Benz 710 SS Sport Tourer commanded significant attention, Artcurial’s auction presented a diverse array of automotive treasures. Another notable pre-war offering was a 1938 Alfa Romeo 6C 2300 B Lungo Cabriolet by Worblaufen, estimated between $1.3 million and $1.9 million. This Alfa Romeo stood out for its exceptional documentation, tracing its creation through correspondence between the Swiss coachbuilder Worblaufen and their client. The car’s originality extended to its remarkably preserved leather interior, likened to a vintage Hermès bag by Pierre Novikoff, deputy director of Artcurial’s motoring department. This Alfa Romeo, with its aluminum body, had been cherished by only four owners over eight decades, highlighting the importance of provenance and meticulous care in the world of classic car collecting.
For collectors with a penchant for more recent classics, the auction also featured a 1993 Jaguar XJ220 C Le Mans, with an estimated price ranging from $999,900 to $1.4 million. This Jaguar represented a different kind of automotive prestige – racing pedigree. Having competed in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans race not once, but twice (in 1993 and 1995), this machine offered a tangible link to motorsport history. Despite encountering mechanical issues in both races, it remained accident-free and largely original, making it a genuine Le Mans-raced car, highly sought after by collectors who value performance and racing heritage.
In conclusion, while the “1929 mercedes gazelle price” may reflect a different segment of the automotive market, the Artcurial Rétromobile auction showcased the true value of automotive icons like the 1929 Mercedes-Benz 710 SS. These vehicles are not merely modes of transport; they are rolling works of art, historical artifacts, and investments that appreciate in value and prestige. The auction underscored the enduring appeal of classic cars and the remarkable prices that the most exceptional examples can command, solidifying their place as coveted treasures in the collector car world.
