A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has shattered all records to become the most expensive car ever sold, fetching an astounding €135 million at auction. This automotive icon, one of only two original prototypes, was acquired by a private collector in a historic sale that transcends mere vehicle transactions, marking a significant step towards funding environmental sustainability.
Named after its visionary creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is celebrated globally by automotive experts and enthusiasts as a pinnacle of engineering and design. Its unparalleled rarity and historical importance have long cemented its legendary status, but this record-breaking sale elevates its significance even further, channeling its legacy into a future-oriented cause.
Image: A side profile view of the iconic 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe showcasing its sleek lines and distinctive gullwing doors.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, articulated the profound rationale behind this landmark decision: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and fundamental elements of our brand’s heritage. The choice to offer one of these unique vehicles for sale was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose – to generate funds for a truly meaningful cause. The proceeds from this auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Our ambition with this fund is to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit and to develop groundbreaking technologies, particularly those that accelerate decarbonization and promote resource conservation.” Källenius further emphasized the magnitude of the achievement, stating, “To realize the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is both extraordinary and a humbling testament to the enduring value of Mercedes-Benz.”
Image: Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, speaking about the Mercedes-Benz Fund and the legacy of the 1955 Benz 300 SLR.
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, elaborated on the company’s broader societal commitment: “As a global entity and a luxury brand, we acknowledge our significant responsibility to society. The funds generated from the sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe present us with an exceptional opportunity to deepen this commitment through a long-term, flagship initiative. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will be a global scholarship program dedicated to empowering young individuals in their academic pursuits and their proactive engagement towards a more sustainable world. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical fields is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our time, fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund”: Investing in Future Sustainability Leaders
The entirety of the auction proceeds from the 1955 Benz 300 Slr will serve as the foundational capital for the global “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Mercedes-Benz has pledged further investments in the coming years, underscoring its long-term commitment to this initiative. The fund will operate through two distinct sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to undertake and contribute to research projects within environmental science domains.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering pupils to conceptualize and implement local environmental projects within their communities, fostering grassroots environmental action.
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” is specifically structured to support individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their educational and career aspirations in these vital fields. Beyond financial assistance, the program will incorporate valuable extracurricular components, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby enhancing career prospects and providing real-world guidance. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the fund, ensuring its effectiveness and reach. Detailed program specifics and the partner organization will be announced later in the year.
A Storied History and a Groundbreaking Auction
The auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in collaboration with the prestigious auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors who resonate with the core values of Mercedes-Benz. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was drawn from the private Mercedes-Benz Classic collection, a treasure trove of over 1,100 vehicles spanning from the invention of the automobile to the present day.
Image: A close-up view highlighting the iconic gullwing door design of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a defining feature of its legendary status.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in the historical collection’s contribution: “We are immensely proud that our heritage collection can play a pivotal role in this initiative, bridging the legacy of automotive engineering with the future of decarbonization technology.” He also confirmed the private buyer’s commendable agreement to keep the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a prized asset of Mercedes-Benz, continuing to be showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is deeply rooted in its exceptional origins, distinctive design, and pioneering technology. Its design innovations, most notably the signature “gullwing” doors, established new benchmarks and solidified its position as one of the most iconic cars in automotive history. Coupled with its formidable racing technology and performance, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has earned an unparalleled position in sports car mythology and a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
For deeper exploration into the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, further information can be found at the Mercedes-Benz web special.
