The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a vehicle of unparalleled mystique and historical significance, has cemented its place as the most valuable car in the world. One of only two original prototypes from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection was auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR to a private collector. This unprecedented sale not only highlights the enduring allure of the 300 Slr 1955 Mercedes-benz but also marks a pivotal moment for the brand’s commitment to a sustainable future.
This automotive icon, named after its creator, the brilliant chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, is more than just a car; it’s a testament to exceptional engineering and breathtaking design. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize the Uhlenhaut Coupe as one of the finest achievements in automotive history. Its record-breaking auction price underscores its unique position and the deep admiration it commands.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are milestones in sports car development and key historical elements that have shaped our brand. The decision to sell one of these two unique sports cars was taken with very sound reasoning – to benefit a good cause. The proceeds from the auction will fund a global scholarship program. With the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ we would like to encourage a new generation to follow in Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s innovative footsteps and develop amazing new technologies, particularly those that support the critical goal of decarbonization and resource preservation. At the same time, achieving the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is extraordinary and humbling: A Mercedes-Benz is by far the most valuable car in the world.”
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, further elaborated on the company’s responsibility: “As a global company and as a luxury brand we bear a great level of responsibility towards society. The proceeds from the sale of the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe provide us with a unique opportunity to strengthen our commitment with a long-term flagship project: We will establish the global scholarship program ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ supporting young people in their studies, commitment and actions towards a more sustainable future. We are convinced that access to education in these areas will be crucial in encountering the great challenges of our time and contribute to greater stability, prosperity and social cohesion.”
The Mercedes-Benz Fund: Fueling Future Innovation
The auction proceeds serve as the initial capital for the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” a worldwide initiative focused on supporting young people in environmental science and decarbonization research. Mercedes-Benz is dedicated to further investing in this program in the coming years.
The fund will operate through two key sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and inspire university students to engage in environmental science research projects.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering younger students to implement local environmental projects within their communities.
The program aims to provide financial assistance to individuals who lack the necessary resources to pursue their environmental endeavors and career paths. Beyond financial aid, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will offer valuable extracurricular opportunities, including mentorships with Mercedes-Benz professionals, to broaden career prospects for the recipients. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, to be announced later this year, to co-develop and manage the fund.
A Historic Auction for an Automotive Legend
The momentous auction of the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with the prestigious auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clients and prominent international car and art collectors who share the brand’s core values.
The auctioned 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz was a prized piece from the non-public Mercedes-Benz Classic collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles dating back to the invention of the automobile in 1886.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in this initiative: “We are proud that we can contribute with our historical collection to this initiative connecting the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has agreed that the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public display on special occasions, while the second original 300 SLR Coupe remains in company ownership and will continue to be displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The Enduring Mystique of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe
The 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe’s allure stems from its unique history, groundbreaking design, and innovative technology. Its creation story, combined with its rarity – only two were ever built – contributes to its legendary status. The design itself set new standards, establishing it as an automotive icon, particularly recognized for its distinctive gullwing doors.
Alt text: Iconic gullwing doors of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, highlighting its revolutionary design.
Furthermore, the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz boasts exceptional performance derived from its racing pedigree. This combination of striking aesthetics and racing technology has solidified the Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mythical status in sports car history and its cherished place among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
Alt text: Front profile of the ultra-rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
The 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe stands as a symbol of automotive excellence and a beacon for future innovation, now inextricably linked with Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future through the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.”
Alt text: Side view of the record-breaking 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe during the historic auction at the Mercedes-Benz Museum.
More detailed information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be found on the Mercedes-Benz web special.
