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The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen: The Most Valuable Grand Prix Racing Car Ever Sold
In a historic moment for the automotive world, the legendary 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen has been sold for an astonishing €51.155.000 ($53.917.370) at an exclusive RM Sotheby’s auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. This sale cements the W 196 R as the most valuable Grand Prix racing car ever sold at auction, making waves among collectors and motorsport enthusiasts alike.
A Racing Legend Under the Hammer
The Mercedes-Benz W 196 R is not just a car; it is a symbol of motorsport dominance. Developed to comply with the 2.5-liter engine regulations introduced in 1954, this Silver Arrow quickly became the car to beat, with legends like Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss piloting it to victory. Its advanced aerodynamics and cutting-edge technology were decades ahead of their time, contributing to Mercedes-Benz’s unshakable reputation in Formula One and endurance racing.
Originally donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in 1965 by Daimler-Benz AG, the W 196 R has been part of motorsport history for decades. The auction of this iconic car saw fierce bidding from collectors worldwide, both over the phone and in person.
A Legacy of Record-Breaking Sales
This sale follows another record-breaking transaction at the same venue, where the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR "Uhlenhaut Coupé" fetched an eye-watering €135,000,000 in 2022, making it the most expensive car ever auctioned. The results from these sales solidify Mercedes-Benz as the pinnacle of collectible automotive investments.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH, described the auction as a thrilling event, emphasizing that Silver Arrows remain among the most iconic and sought-after vehicles in automotive history. RM Sotheby’s Global Head of Auctions, Gord Duff, highlighted the historical importance of the sale, noting that the proceeds will significantly benefit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum’s restoration and expansion efforts.
Mercedes-Benz and the Collector Car Market
Mercedes-Benz has long been a dominant force in the collector car industry, producing some of the most desirable and historically significant vehicles. The W 196 R Stromlinienwagen's record-breaking sale is a testament to the lasting appeal of the brand’s engineering prowess and racing heritage.
For car enthusiasts in Dubai, Mercedes-Benz continues to be a top choice in the luxury and performance vehicle market. Whether looking for a classic collectible or a premium used car, Auto Trader UAE offers a wide range of used Mercedes-Benz cars in Dubai. Explore the latest listings and find your dream car today at www.autotraders.ae.
