In an unprecedented event that has reverberated throughout the automotive world, one of only two original 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This monumental sale establishes the Slr Benz as the most valuable car ever sold, marking not just a historical financial milestone, but also a significant contribution to the future of environmental science.
This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, an icon of automotive engineering and design, was acquired by a private collector at a closed auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum on May 5th. Named in honor of its creator, the brilliant chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, this SLR Benz represents the zenith of automotive innovation of its era. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize it as a masterpiece, a testament to German engineering prowess and a symbol of timeless elegance. Its rarity is undeniable, with only two prototypes ever crafted, making this particular SLR Benz an almost mythical artifact in automotive history.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, articulated the profound significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not merely cars; they are pivotal milestones in sports car evolution and crucial elements of our brand’s heritage. The decision to part with one of these extraordinary vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose – to champion a noble cause. The funds generated from this auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Through this initiative, we aspire to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit and develop groundbreaking technologies, particularly those vital for achieving decarbonization and preserving our planet’s resources. Witnessing an SLR Benz achieve the highest price ever for a vehicle is both extraordinary and deeply humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz stands as the most valuable car in the world.”
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, further emphasized the company’s commitment: “As a global corporation and a leading luxury brand, we acknowledge our significant societal responsibility. The proceeds from the sale of this SLR Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe present us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship undertaking. The establishment of the global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ scholarship program will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, their dedication, and their actions towards building a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that providing access to education in environmental science and related fields is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our era and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
Seeding a Global Scholarship Program with SLR Benz Legacy
The record-breaking auction of the SLR Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the foundational capital for this ambitious global initiative. 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, designed to connect, educate, and motivate students to engage in research focused on environmental science projects; and School Scholarships, aimed at enabling pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities. Crucially, the program will prioritize individuals who lack the financial means to pursue these vital projects and career paths. Beyond financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will incorporate valuable extracurricular components, such as mentorships with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby unlocking new career opportunities for recipients. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”. Detailed plans for the program’s structure, implementation, and the identity of the partner organization will be unveiled later this year.
A Storied History and an Unprecedented Auction for the SLR Benz
The auction of the SLR Benz on May 5th was conducted in collaboration with the esteemed auction house RM Sotheby’s, within the hallowed halls of the Mercedes-Benz Museum. The exclusive guest list comprised select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The SLR Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe offered at auction was previously a treasured part of Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 automobiles spanning from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed the significance of this moment: “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this groundbreaking initiative, bridging the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to ensure that this exceptional SLR Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe remains accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain in company ownership and will continue to be a centerpiece of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The SLR Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is deeply rooted in its unique creation, its groundbreaking design, and its pioneering technology. Its design philosophy established benchmarks that cemented its place among the world’s most iconic automobiles, notably highlighted by its distinctive gullwing doors. Furthermore, its exceptional performance, derived from its racing pedigree, solidified the SLR Benz‘s legendary status in sports car mythology and its cherished position in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz aficionados worldwide. This auction not only set a new record but also ensured that the legacy of the SLR Benz will continue to inspire innovation and contribute to a more sustainable future through the Mercedes-Benz Fund.
