A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé has achieved a record-smashing price at auction, selling for an astounding €135,000,000. This unprecedented sale positions this iconic vehicle as the most valuable car ever sold, surpassing all previous records by a significant margin. This particular 300 SLR, one of only two ever produced in 1955, has long been admired as a pinnacle of automotive history, but few anticipated its availability for purchase.
Created by Mercedes-Benz’s racing division, this remarkable car is named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the department’s chief engineer and designer. Widely regarded as an exceptional feat of engineering and aesthetic design, the 300 SLR is often hailed by automotive experts and enthusiasts worldwide as “the most beautiful car in the world”.
The foundation of the 300 SLR lies in the highly successful W 196 R Grand Prix car, a dominant force in racing that secured two World Championships with Juan Manuel Fangio at the helm. For sports car racing, the engine was enlarged to 3.0 liters, enhancing its performance capabilities. The 300 SLR was capable of reaching speeds of 180 mph, an incredible feat that solidified its status as one of the fastest road-legal vehicles of its era.
The historic Benz Auction took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. RM Sotheby’s collaborated closely with Mercedes-Benz to ensure the auction’s execution met the highest standards of prestige and professionalism. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors, all of whom resonate with the core values of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Bidding for the 300 SLR commenced at a price point exceeding the final sale price of the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, previously the most expensive car sold at auction by RM Sotheby’s in 2018. The winning bid for the 300 SLR soared to a staggering €135,000,000, establishing it as the undisputed champion of car auctions and placing it among the top ten most valuable auction items ever sold. The funds generated from this benz auction will be channeled into establishing a global “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” This fund will be dedicated to providing scholarships for education and research in environmental science and decarbonization, aimed at supporting the next generation of innovators.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, commented, “We are proud to leverage our historical collection to support this crucial initiative, bridging the legacy of the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology.” He also noted the private buyer’s agreement to keep the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupé will remain under company ownership and will continue to be a highlight at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
Peter Wallman, Chairman, UK & EMEA for RM Sotheby’s, shared his perspective: “Words cannot truly capture the immense importance and significance of this sale. It is safe to say that few believed this car would ever be offered for public auction. Mercedes-Benz entrusting RM Sotheby’s to conduct this benz auction was an absolute privilege.”
Oliver Barker, Chairman of Sotheby’s Europe, added, “Bringing the hammer down on this masterpiece of design and engineering was an extraordinary moment. It rightfully takes its place alongside the most significant artworks ever sold at auction. It is remarkable that this jewel of automotive history has come to market now, coinciding with an exciting new chapter for RM Sotheby’s.” The record-breaking benz auction of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé marks a pivotal moment in automotive history and the world of collectible cars, demonstrating the enduring allure and value of exceptional engineering and design.
