The world of historic racing is abuzz with the news that some of its most iconic machines are set to be auctioned. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, renowned for its incredible collection, has announced a sale of eleven significant competition cars, aiming to refine its focus and bolster its resources. Among the stellar lineup are vehicles with deep ties to racing legends, including a Mercedes-Benz W196 with connections to Stirling Moss, making this auction a must-watch event for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
One of the undisputed stars of the auction is the Mercedes W196, a car synonymous with the golden era of Formula 1 and the brilliance of drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss. This particular W196 boasts a remarkable pedigree, having been piloted by Fangio in a non-championship race in Buenos Aires in 1954. Later, it was modified with streamlined bodywork and entrusted to Stirling Moss for the 1955 Italian Grand Prix. While an engine issue forced Moss to retire from the race, he still managed to set the fastest lap, showcasing the raw speed and potential of this magnificent machine. For enthusiasts of Moss Motors Mercedes history, this car represents a tangible link to a legendary driver and a dominant marque. The expected price tag of $50-70 million reflects its unparalleled racing provenance and historical significance.
Craig Breedlove walks away from his Spirit of America Sonic 1
Beyond the allure of the Mercedes-Benz, the auction features another jewel in Ferrari’s crown: the 250LM. This particular model holds a special place in Ferrari’s history as it secured their last overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans until their recent triumph in 2023. Entered by Luigi Chinetti, Ferrari’s US importer, for the 1965 Le Mans race, the 250LM was driven to victory by Jochen Rindt and Masten Gregory. This historic win solidified the 250LM’s status as a racing icon. While no official estimate has been placed on this Ferrari, similar examples have been valued in the $18-$20 million range, highlighting its desirability and collector appeal.
The auction extends beyond traditional circuit racers, featuring vehicles that pushed the boundaries of speed in different disciplines. Craig Breedlove’s Spirit of America-Sonic I, a land speed record breaker, is another highlight. This jet-powered machine shattered speed barriers, becoming the first car to exceed 600 mph in 1965, reaching a staggering 600.601 mph. Breedlove himself recounted how, at those speeds, telemetry indicated the front wheels were barely touching the ground, emphasizing the sheer velocity and pioneering engineering of the Spirit of America.
Adding to the diverse collection is a Benetton B191, driven by Michael Schumacher at the beginning of his Formula 1 career in 1992. This car marks an important early chapter in Schumacher’s legendary career. Designed by John Barnard, the B191 chassis also holds the distinction of delivering Nelson Piquet’s final Formula 1 victory at the 1991 Canadian Grand Prix.
Rounding out the auction offerings are a 1966 Holman-Moody Ford GT MkIV, piloted by Mark Donohue and Paul Hawkins, and the magnesium-bodied Chevrolet Corvette SS Project XP64, which impressively secured pole position in its sole race at Sebring in 1957.
This unprecedented auction by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum presents a unique opportunity to acquire pieces of motorsport history. From the Moss motors Mercedes W196 to record-breaking land speed machines and Le Mans victors, the collection represents a diverse and significant chapter in automotive competition, sure to captivate collectors and racing enthusiasts worldwide.
