For many, owning a Mercedes-Benz represents the pinnacle of automotive aspiration. Synonymous with luxury, safety, and unparalleled engineering, the brand has cultivated a reputation that transcends mere transportation, becoming a symbol of status and achievement. Beyond the allure of their standard production models, however, lies a realm of Mercedes-Benz vehicles so exclusive, so meticulously crafted, that they remain tantalizingly out of reach for most enthusiasts. These are the rare Mercedes-Benz cars, automotive masterpieces born from limited production runs, groundbreaking designs, or significant historical moments. They are not just cars; they are rolling embodiments of automotive art, commanding attention and astronomical values in the collector’s market.
Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to blending artistry with cutting-edge engineering is legendary. The driving experience in a Mercedes is designed to be more than just powerful and fast; it’s intended to evoke emotion, to trigger nostalgia, and to deliver an extraordinary sense of occasion. While owning a contemporary Mercedes is an achievable ambition for many, the rarest Mercedes-Benz cars exist in a different stratosphere. These are the vehicles that inspire awe, ignite dreams, and represent the ultimate echelon of automotive collecting. Their value is not merely monetary; it is rooted in their unique design, their profound historical significance, and their scarcity. Join us as we delve into the world of the 15 rarest Mercedes-Benz cars ever created, each a testament to the brand’s unwavering pursuit of automotive perfection.
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Is Mercedes A Boring Car Manufacturer?
For long-time Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts, the brand holds a special place. However, some critics argue that Mercedes has become predictable, lacking the excitement offered by brands like BMW. Do you find Mercedes-Benz to be consistently engaging, or do you believe it sometimes falls short in delivering thrilling driving experiences compared to its European rivals? While opinions vary, Mercedes-Benz maintains a dedicated following who appreciate its unique blend of luxury and performance.
To ensure the accuracy and relevance of this list, we’ve drawn upon information from official Mercedes-Benz archives, respected automotive history resources like Classics.com, and the Mercedes-Benz heritage website.
UPDATE: 2024/09/25
15 Rarest Mercedes Cars In Existence
This list has been updated to include even more exceptional and rare Mercedes-Benz models, some of which may be new discoveries even for seasoned enthusiasts. Prepare to be amazed by the depth and breadth of Mercedes-Benz rarity and automotive artistry!
15 Mercedes-Benz S-Type 26/180 Sports Tourer
Units Produced: Less than 175
Bonhams|Cars
For those with the means to indulge in automotive extravagance, the Mercedes-Benz S-Type 26/180 Sports Tourer represents a bygone era of motoring opulence. In the roaring twenties, speed and performance were nascent concepts in the automotive world, yet the S-Type was a pioneering machine, a precursor to modern sports cars. However, acquiring this marvel in its day was not just about wealth; it required fortunate timing and sheer luck. Between 1927 and 1928, Mercedes-Benz produced a mere 146 examples, with some records suggesting up to 174 units. This incredibly limited production cemented its place among the rarest Mercedes-Benz cars from the very beginning.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1927 to 1928 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | Less than 175 |
| Unique Features | On-demand Roots-type Supercharger, Chassis sold without factory coachwork allowing for bespoke bodies |
| Displacement | 6.8 Liters |
| Power | 526 Horsepower |
The S-Type was not just about scarcity; it was a performance icon. Dominating the newly inaugurated Nürburgring, it shattered records, claiming victory in its class at prestigious events like the Batschari Challenge Trophy and the Baden-Baden Automobile Tournament in 1927. The nomenclature itself was a performance statement: “26” denoted taxable horsepower, “120” indicated actual horsepower, and “180” represented the boosted horsepower unleashed when the driver fully engaged the Roots-type supercharger of its formidable 6.8-liter inline-six engine. Today, the pre-war Mercedes-Benz S-Type commands prices that reflect its rarity and historical significance. A testament to its desirability, a Mercedes-Benz S-Type 26/180 Sports Tourer fetched a staggering $5.4 million at a 2021 Bonhams auction, underscoring its status as a highly coveted piece of automotive history.
14 Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet
Units Produced: 99 units
Wikimedia Commons
For those who seek the ultimate expression of automotive dominance and opulence, the Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet stands as an unparalleled statement. This ultra-exclusive G-Wagen variant is limited to a mere 99 units worldwide, further enhancing its desirability and collectibility. Adding to its exclusivity, none were officially designated for the United States market, making it even more elusive for North American collectors of rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 2017 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 99 |
| Unique Features | Convertible rear half with a retractable fabric roof, Portal axles for extreme off-road capability |
| Displacement | Six Liters |
| Power | 630 Horsepower |
The G 650 Landaulet is engineered to conquer the most challenging terrains while cocooning its occupants in unparalleled luxury. Beneath its commanding presence lies a potent six-liter V-12 bi-turbo engine, unleashing 630 horsepower and a massive 738 pound-feet of torque. This power propels the Landaulet from 0 to 60 MPH in under six seconds, reaching a top speed of 112 MPH – remarkable figures for such a robust off-roader. It incorporates portal axles derived from the G 500 4×4², ensuring exceptional ground clearance and off-road prowess. The Maybach-crafted interior is a sanctuary of technology and lavish comfort, featuring plush, multi-adjustable seats with massage functions, individual entertainment screens, and meticulously appointed finishes. The rear cabin transforms into an open-air oasis with a push-button retractable fabric roof. Originally priced around $754,000, the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet, due to its extreme rarity and desirability, now commands prices easily exceeding $1.8 million, solidifying its status as a modern classic among rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
13 Mercedes-Benz SL 73 AMG
Units Produced: 85
Pintrest
Born from the already prestigious Mercedes-Benz SL 600, equipped with the AMG Styling Package, the SL 73 AMG ascended to become a true performance legend. Upon arrival at Affalterbach, the skilled artisans at AMG infused this top-tier roadster with an unprecedented level of power and exclusivity. At its 1999 launch, the SL 73 AMG held the distinction of being among the most expensive cars available, priced above 300,000 Deutschmarks (approximately $170,628 USD). Its heart was a magnificent 7.3-liter variant of the V-12 M120 engine series, producing a staggering 526 horsepower. This powerhouse transformed the SL 73 AMG into a rolling masterpiece, a true exemplar of rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 85 |
| Unique Features | Early post-merger Mercedes-AMG GmbH model, Iconic M120 V12 engine family |
| Displacement | 7.3 Liters |
| Power | 526 Horsepower |
Remarkably, the 1999 SL 73 AMG was seldom featured in sales brochures, adding to its enigmatic allure as one of AMG’s best-kept secrets. It represented an early milestone in the post-Mercedes-AMG merger era, showcasing the potent synergy between the two brands. Throughout the 1990s, AMG relentlessly enhanced the R129 SL platform, first with the 385-horsepower SL 6.0, followed by the 496-horsepower SL 70. However, the SL 73 AMG unleashed a truly astonishing 520+ horsepower, propelling Mercedes-AMG into the new millennium with tire-scorching bravado. The SL 73 AMG’s engine holds a revered place in AMG’s history, as it later powered the iconic Pagani Zonda S 7.3, albeit in a further refined 547-horsepower configuration. This colossal V-12 engine catapulted the SL 73 AMG from 0-60 MPH in a mere 4.5 seconds, achieving a breathtaking top speed of 200 MPH, firmly establishing its place among the most coveted rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
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12 SLR McLaren Stirling Moss
Units Produced: 75 units
SLR McLaren Stirling Moss
The SLR McLaren Stirling Moss Edition marked the final and most extreme iteration of the celebrated Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Named in honor of the legendary British racing driver Sir Stirling Moss, this ultra-exclusive variant pushed the boundaries of performance and design. It achieved a remarkable weight reduction of approximately 440 pounds compared to the standard SLR McLaren, primarily through its radical body design incorporating extensive use of carbon fiber. This focus on lightweight construction contributed significantly to its enhanced agility and performance, cementing its status as one of the most sought-after rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 75 |
| Unique Features | Roofless and windshield-less design, Capable of reaching 217 MPH despite open cockpit |
| Displacement | 5.5 Liters |
| Power | 641 Horsepower |
This open-top speedster paid homage to the iconic 300 SLR McLaren that dominated the 1955 Mille Miglia rally. Powering the SLR Stirling Moss is a formidable 5.5-liter V-8 engine, supercharged to deliver 641 horsepower. This potent powerplant propels the car to a staggering top speed approaching 220 MPH, an incredible feat for a vehicle without a roof or windshield. The Stirling Moss Edition is characterized by its minimalist design, devoid of a traditional roof and windshield, emphasizing its raw, unfiltered driving experience. The interior reflects its racing pedigree with a focus on essential elements, yet Mercedes-Benz infused it with luxurious touches of leather and carbon fiber. An aluminum plate on the shift lever, bearing Stirling Moss’s signature, adds a unique and personal tribute. Originally priced around $1 million, the extreme rarity and iconic status of the SLR McLaren Stirling Moss now command auction prices in the vicinity of $2.5 million, solidifying its position among the most valuable rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
11 Mercedes SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary Edition
Units Produced: 45 units
The Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary Edition embodies the pinnacle of AMG’s driving performance philosophy. Created to commemorate AMG’s 45th anniversary, this limited-edition model was restricted to just 45 units, making it exceptionally rare and highly collectible. Such was its desirability that all units were pre-sold before Mercedes-Benz even officially unveiled the vehicle, highlighting the intense demand for rare Mercedes-Benz cars. Distinguished by its exclusive “designo magno graphite” paint finish, this unique gray matte hue accentuated the sensuous lines of its aluminum body, further enhancing its visual appeal.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 2013 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 45 |
| Unique Features | Exclusive Designo Magno graphite matte paint, Limited edition commemorating AMG’s 45th anniversary |
| Displacement | Six Liters |
| Power | 621 Horsepower |
Beyond its striking aesthetics, the SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary Edition delivered breathtaking performance. It housed a potent V-12 twin-turbo engine, generating 621 horsepower and a colossal 737 pound-feet of torque – the same engine found in the standard SL 65 AMG. Power was channeled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission. Recently, a pristine example of the 45th Anniversary Edition SL 65 AMG crossed the auction block in the U.K., fetching approximately $137,000, demonstrating the enduring value and desirability of these rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
10 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet
Units Produced: 33
Bring a Trailer
The Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet is an automotive monument, often associated with heads of state and royalty, serving as a mobile symbol of power and prestige. These imposing four-door limousines were entrusted to governments worldwide for official duties, notably gracing occasions for Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, and even the Apollo 11 astronauts upon their triumphant return. Between 1963 and 1981, a mere 33 four-door Landaulet variants of this majestic carriage were produced, contributing to their extreme rarity and desirability among collectors of rare Mercedes-Benz cars. Today, these automotive icons command prices exceeding $2 million at auction, reflecting their historical significance and unparalleled exclusivity.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1963 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 33 |
| Unique Features | Seven-seater configuration, Convertible rear section providing an open-air experience for dignitaries |
| Displacement | 6.3 Liters |
| Power | 250 Horsepower |
Affectionately nicknamed “Der Grosse Mercedes,” meaning “the big Mercedes,” this vehicle lived up to its moniker in every dimension. Powering “Der Grosse Mercedes” was a robust 6.3-liter V-8 engine, generating 250 horsepower. This marked a significant milestone as the first Mercedes-Benz passenger car to feature a V-8 engine, a powerplant that later gained mass-market acclaim in the 300 SEL 6.3 sports sedan in 1963. Technological advancements were abundant in the 600 Pullman Landaulet. All four wheels were equipped with advanced disc brakes, utilizing two calipers per wheel for superior braking performance and safety. The ride quality was further enhanced by adjustable air suspension, prioritizing passenger comfort. The cabin was a haven of luxury, adorned with premium leather and equipped with contemporary features like dual-zone climate control and an intricate hydraulic system governing various vehicle functions, including seat adjustments, partition operation, and the convertible roof mechanism, making it a true marvel among rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
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9 300 SL Alloy Gullwing
United Produced: 29 units
Mercedes-Benz conceived the 300 SL Alloy Gullwing with private racing enthusiasts in mind, aiming to create a lighter, more performance-focused version of the iconic Gullwing. Designated “Leichtmetallausführung,” meaning “Light Metal Version,” the Alloy Gullwing replaced steel body panels with lightweight aluminum. Plexiglass was also incorporated, resulting in a weight reduction of approximately 209 pounds. Between 1955 (24 units) and 1956 (5 units), only 29 examples of these competition-bred cars emerged from the factory, firmly establishing the 300 SL Alloy Gullwing special edition as one of the rarest Mercedes-Benz cars ever produced and a legend among Gullwing models.
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**Follow On** [Google News](https://news.google.com/publications/CAAiEAV2EB1IJAm32VnNXOy6U8MqFAgKIhAFdhAdSCQJt9lZzVzsulPD)Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1955 to 1956 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 29 |
| Unique Features | Lightweight alloy body construction, Designed for enhanced performance on road and track |
| Displacement | Three Liters |
| Power | 215 Horsepower |
Considered a holy grail among automotive collectors, this “Silver Arrow” variant is powered by a three-liter inline-six engine, producing 215 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, this powertrain propelled the vehicle from 0 to 60 MPH in a brisk 8.8 seconds for its era. In 2022, the 21st of the 29 examples of this highly prized Gullwing sold for just over $5 million, reaffirming its place as one of the most valuable and rare Mercedes-Benz cars in existence.
8 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial-Roadster
Units Produced: 26
Pintrest
Just as America boasted the Duesenberg Model J and France the Talbot-Lago Teardrop, Germany offered the magnificent Mercedes-Benz 540 K Spezial-Roadster. Unveiled at the 1936 Paris Motor Show, the 540 K was exclusively available through special order, contributing to its extreme rarity. Only 26 Spezial-Roadsters were ever meticulously crafted, a testament to its bespoke nature and the economic realities of the 1930s Great Depression, when luxury commissions were scarce. While factory records indicate over 400 total 540 K models were produced across various body styles, the Spezial-Roadster remains the most exclusive and coveted variant among rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1936 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 26 |
| Unique Features | Available exclusively through special order, Custom coachwork reflecting the pinnacle of pre-war luxury |
| Displacement | 5.4 Liters |
| Power | 180 Horsepower |
This exceptional model embodied the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship, incorporating the expertise of automotive luminaries like Gustav Rohr, Hermann Ahrens, and Mercedes-Benz’s own Karrosserie Sindelfingen. Beneath its sculpted hood, the 540 K Spezial-Roadster housed a 5.4-liter supercharged inline-eight engine, delivering 180 horsepower when fully engaged. This prodigious power enabled the breathtaking machine to reach a top speed of 105 MPH, remarkable for its era. Contributing to its exceptional road manners were its advanced four-wheel independent suspension and an updated braking system, both engineered by Gustav Rohr, making it a technological marvel among rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
7 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK GTR
Units Produced: 25 units
Driven by the ambition to return to GT1 Class racing dominance, Mercedes-Benz partnered with AMG to create the CLK GTR race car in a remarkably short timeframe. FIA regulations mandated the production of at least 25 road-legal versions to homologate the race car. In an astonishing feat of engineering and design, the collaboration resulted in both the CLK GTR race car and its road-going counterpart in just 128 days. Utilizing CAD and clay modeling, they refined the initial CLK GTR designs, ultimately producing 20 coupes and 5 roadsters, cementing its status as one of the most exclusive and rare Mercedes-Benz cars. This rapid development translated to immediate racing success, with the CLK GTR race car securing 6 victories in the 11 FIA GT rounds in 1997, followed by complete dominance in the subsequent year.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1997 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 25 |
| Unique Features | Road-legal version of a race car, Extreme performance and aerodynamic design |
| Displacement | 6.9 Liters |
| Power | 604 Horsepower |
Mercedes-Benz and AMG prioritized performance above all else in the CLK GTR, resulting in a form-follows-function design. A mid-mounted 6.9-liter V-12 engine, coupled with a six-speed sequential gearbox, delivered breathtaking power. This naturally aspirated engine produced 604 horsepower and 572 pound-feet of torque, launching the car to 62 MPH in a mere 3.8 seconds. In 2021, RM Sotheby’s auctioned one of these incredibly rare speed machines for $4.515 million, underscoring its desirability and value as a pinnacle of rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
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6 Mercedes-Benz C111 Series
Units Produced: 13
Mercedes-Benz
First revealed at the 1969 Frankfurt Motor Show, and again at the 1970 Geneva Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz C111 was conceived as a technological showcase, pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation and design. Its striking fiberglass body, painted in a vibrant orange hue, and dramatic gullwing doors immediately captivated audiences. The C111 concept explored various advanced powertrains, including turbo diesel, turbo V-8, and a mid-engine four-rotor Wankel rotary engine. Notably, the C111 concept was the first car designed entirely using computer-aided design, and it incorporated fiberglass panels to minimize weight. Only 16 C111 concepts were produced, with the majority being the C111-II variant, featuring the four-rotor Wankel engine, solidifying its place among rare Mercedes-Benz cars. The C111-II’s Wankel-4 engine delivered 345 horsepower, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in under 5.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 MPH.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1969 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 16 |
| Unique Features | Pioneering computer-aided design, Experimental rotary engine, Fiberglass body panels |
| Displacement | 2.4 Liters |
| Power | 345 Horsepower |
Despite its groundbreaking technology and stunning design, Mercedes-Benz ultimately abandoned the C111 project by the end of the decade. Speculation suggests that this decision may have been influenced by prevailing negative sentiment towards Mercedes sports cars at the time, potentially linked to a tragic motorsport accident involving a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Regardless of the reasons, the surviving C111 concepts remain as captivating and futuristic today as they were over half a century ago, highly prized as rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
5 Mercedes-Benz W196 Silver Arrow
Units Produced: 14 units
Mercedes
In the post-World War II racing era, Mercedes-Benz returned to the track with the formidable W196 Silver Arrow, powered by a 2.5-liter straight-eight engine. Driven by the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio, the Silver Arrows achieved immediate success, winning the German and Swiss Grand Prix races in succession during the 1954 Formula 1 season. Only 14 units, including prototypes, were ever produced, making the W196 Silver Arrow exceptionally rare and historically significant among rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1954 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 14 (including prototypes) |
| Unique Features | Fuel-injected engine, Advanced fully independent suspension, Engine laid down horizontally to reduce car’s profile |
| Displacement | 2.5 Liters |
| Power | 257 to 290 Horsepower |
Engineered to meet the stringent regulations of post-war racing, Mercedes-Benz introduced several groundbreaking innovations with the W196. These included a fuel-injected engine, a fully independent suspension system, and a unique engine configuration where the engine was laid down horizontally to minimize the car’s overall height and improve aerodynamics. While the Silver Arrow’s engine, producing 257 to 290 horsepower, was less powerful than its pre-war predecessors, it delivered superior speed and handling. Its refined performance and predictable behavior on the track contributed to its racing dominance. In 2013, a Mercedes W196 Silver Arrow achieved a record-breaking auction price of $29.6 million, solidifying its status as one of the most valuable and rare Mercedes-Benz cars, and a true icon of motorsport history.
4 Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo
Units Produced: 5 units
Mercedes
The Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo is an audacious supercar concept, commissioned by Kazunori Yamauchi, the creator of the acclaimed Gran Turismo video game series, specifically for Gran Turismo 6. Mercedes-Benz unveiled a full-scale model of the Vision GT, devoid of an engine, at the 2013 LA Motor Show, instantly captivating audiences with its radical design. In its virtual Gran Turismo 6 incarnation, the Vision GT is powered by a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, generating 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. The car’s design prioritized optimal weight distribution, achieving a 46:54 front-to-rear balance for exceptional handling, making it a virtual legend among rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 2013 (Reported) |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 5 |
| Unique Features | Conceived for the Gran Turismo video game, Real-world production reportedly limited to just five units, Aluminum space frame and body |
| Displacement | 6.2 Liters |
| Power | 591 horsepower |
Florida-based J & S Worldwide Holdings reportedly undertook the ambitious project of constructing five real-world examples of the Vision Gran Turismo, each with an estimated price tag of $1.5 million. The company intended to utilize the SLS AMG GT edition as the foundation for bringing this virtual concept to life, incorporating a 6.2-liter V-8 engine producing 591 horsepower. If realized, these five examples would represent an incredibly exclusive and tangible manifestation of a digital dream, becoming some of the rarest and most futuristic Mercedes-Benz cars ever created.
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3 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL By HWA
Units Produced: 3
Pintrest
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, a groundbreaking model in its own right, famously held the title of “fastest production car on the planet” upon its release. Decades later, the 300 SL’s inherent rarity and timeless appeal remain undeniable. Among the most exclusive iterations are the modified versions commissioned by the Sultan of Brunei in the 1990s, known as the 300 SL by HWA. These restomod creations represent a unique fusion of classic design and modern performance, making them exceptionally rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1990 (1954 original) |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 3 |
| Unique Features | Restomodded classic with modern AMG V-8 engine, Upgraded suspension, brakes, and contemporary interior |
| Displacement | 6.0 Liters |
| Power | 381 Horsepower |
HWA, in this context, stands for Hans Werner Aufrecht, a founding father of AMG. This project involved meticulously retrofitting original 300 SL chassis with modern AMG components. The inline-six engine was replaced with a contemporary AMG V-8, accompanied by updated suspension, brakes, and a redesigned interior. While purists might debate the modification of such an iconic classic, HWA AG reportedly produced only three examples of the restomodded 300 SL. One resides at HWA headquarters in Affalterbach, another was delivered to the Sultan, and the third is believed to be in the possession of a wealthy collector in Hong Kong. Today, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL by HWA is estimated to be worth a staggering $14,800,000, reflecting its unique blend of classic rarity and modern performance enhancements, making it one of the most valuable rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
2 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe
Units Produced: 2
Mercedes
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is a legendary vehicle, an object of desire for any serious car collector. This hardtop variant of the open-top SLR race car was not destined for competition; instead, it served as a personal company car for Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the head of Mercedes-Benz’s test department, hence its namesake. Only two examples were ever produced, making it one of the rarest and most historically significant Mercedes-Benz cars ever conceived.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1955 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 2 |
| Unique Features | Hardtop coupe version of the 300 SLR race car, Lightweight Elektron alloy body over a steel tubular space frame |
| Displacement | Three Liters |
| Power | 302 Horsepower |
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s design is a masterpiece of automotive artistry, characterized by its elongated hood, aggressive lines, prominent side-mounted exhaust pipes, and elegantly sculpted windshield. Beneath its stunning exterior lies formidable performance. The “automotive Mona Lisa” is powered by a three-liter naturally-aspirated inline-eight engine, producing 302 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in a swift 6.9 seconds and achieves a top speed of 182 MPH, remarkable for its era. In 2022, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe made history by becoming the most expensive car ever sold, fetching an astonishing $142 million at a special auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. This unprecedented sale price firmly cemented its position as the pinnacle of rare Mercedes-Benz cars and a true automotive icon.
1 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Pininfarina Coupe
Units Produced: 1
Wikimedia Commons
The Mercedes-Benz 230 SL, known as the “Pagoda,” debuted in early 1963, designed by Paul Bracq and upholding the high standards associated with the Mercedes-Benz SL badge. However, shortly after its launch, the renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina approached Mercedes-Benz with a proposal to create a bespoke 230 SL Coupe. Pininfarina enlisted Tom Tjaarda, the designer behind the elegant Ferrari 330 GT 2+2, to lead the project. The resulting Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Pininfarina Coupe is a unique masterpiece, the only one of its kind, and therefore the rarest of all rare Mercedes-Benz cars.
Limited Production Specs
| Production | 1964 |
|---|---|
| Units Produced | 1 |
| Unique Features | Unique coachwork by Pininfarina, One-off design showcasing Italian styling on a German classic |
| Displacement | 2.3 Liters |
| Power | 146 Horsepower |
Tjaarda reimagined the 230 SL Pininfarina Coupe with a distinctive forward-leaning fascia, slender A and C pillars, more angular lines, and a rear end featuring subtle taillights and a three-piece bumper. Pininfarina’s team also refined the interior, using premium materials to elevate its sophistication. While the Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Pininfarina Coupe garnered widespread acclaim at the Paris and Torino Motor Shows, Mercedes-Benz ultimately decided not to put it into production. In 2022, this singular Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Pininfarina Coupe, the only one ever created, sold for $1.215 million at the prestigious Pebble Beach Auctions, solidifying its place as the ultimate example of rare Mercedes-Benz cars and a testament to the enduring allure of coachbuilt automotive artistry.
