In an unprecedented event that has sent ripples through the automotive world, one of only two original Mercedes-Benz 300 Slr Uhlenhaut Coupes has been sold for a staggering 135 million EUR. This landmark auction, conducted by Mercedes-Benz, has positioned this iconic 1955 vehicle as the most valuable car ever sold, surpassing all previous records. The groundbreaking sale not only highlights the exceptional allure and historical importance of the benz 300 slr but also marks the inception of a significant global initiative.
The auctioned benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe is not merely a car; it’s a relic of automotive mastery, a testament to pioneering engineering, and a symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s rich heritage. Named in honor of its creator, the brilliant chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, this coupe represents the zenith of 1950s automotive design and performance. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize the Uhlenhaut Coupe as an unparalleled example of automotive artistry and technical prowess. Its rarity is undisputed – only two prototypes were ever meticulously hand-built, making this auction a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, articulated the profound significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal elements of our brand’s history. The decision to part with one of these unique vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose: to channel the proceeds towards a truly meaningful cause. The funds generated from this auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Our aspiration with this fund is to inspire a new generation to embody Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s spirit of innovation, to pursue groundbreaking technologies, especially those crucial to achieving decarbonization and safeguarding our planet’s resources. Witnessing a Mercedes-Benz attain the highest value ever recorded for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally establishes Mercedes-Benz as the most valuable automotive marque 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 societal responsibility underpinning this initiative: “As a global corporation and a leading luxury brand, we are acutely aware of our responsibility to society. The sale of the benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe presents us with a unique and powerful opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship undertaking. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’, a global scholarship program, will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, their dedication, and their actions towards forging a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical domains is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our era and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
The substantial proceeds from the auction of the benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe will serve as the foundational capital for this global scholarship program. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to augment this initial investment with further resources in the years to come. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct yet interconnected sub-categories. “University Scholarships” will focus on nurturing connections, providing education, and motivating university students to undertake impactful research projects in environmental science. “School Scholarships” will be dedicated to empowering pupils to implement tangible environmental projects within their local communities. Crucially, the program’s financial support will be directed towards individuals who lack the necessary financial means to realize their projects and pursue their chosen career paths. Beyond monetary assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will incorporate valuable extracurricular elements, such as mentorships with Mercedes-Benz experts, to unlock new career horizons for these promising young individuals. Mercedes-Benz is actively collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”. Comprehensive details regarding the program’s structure, rollout plan, and the chosen partner organization will be announced later in the year.
The exclusive auction of the benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in collaboration with the esteemed auction house RM Sotheby’s. The select guest list comprised valued Mercedes-Benz clients and prominent international car and art collectors, all of whom resonate with Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned benz 300 slr was drawn from the non-public Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection, a treasure trove encompassing over 1,100 automobiles, charting the evolution of the automobile from its inception in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, emphasized the synergistic connection between the past and the future embodied by this initiative: “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this forward-looking endeavor, bridging the legacy of engineering excellence with the imperative of decarbonization technology.” In a testament to the enduring significance of the benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe, the private buyer has graciously agreed to ensure its continued public accessibility for display on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a cherished asset of Mercedes-Benz, continuing to captivate visitors at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
The mystique surrounding the benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe is deeply rooted in its unique genesis, its groundbreaking design, and its innovative technology. Its design philosophy established new benchmarks, solidifying its position among the most iconic automobiles globally, notably distinguished by its signature “gullwing” doors. Coupled with its exceptional performance, derived from its purebred racing technology, the benz 300 slr Uhlenhaut Coupe has rightfully earned its legendary status in sports car mythology and occupies a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz aficionados worldwide.
