RM Sotheby’s auctioned the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R for $53.9M, making it the most valuable Grand Prix racing car ever sold at auction.
As the automotive world continues to evolve with an infinite number of new cars, classics continue to shine as they preserve a significant era in motoring. The coveted examples often come with massive premiums that buyers are willing to pay, even well into the eight-figure mark. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen just secured its place in history as the most valuable Grand Prix racing car ever sold at auction, fetching a jaw-dropping $53.9 million at RM Sotheby’s exclusive event in Stuttgart. The legendary Silver Arrow, once driven by icons like Juan Manuel Fangio, wowed collectors worldwide, leading to a heated bidding war before the hammer finally dropped. Originally donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in 1965, its sale will now support the museum’s restoration efforts, guaranteeing the preservation of motorsport roots.
Being one of the most advanced racing machines of its era, the W 196 R brought together cutting-edge engineering with a streamlined body and a 2.5L straight-eight engine that helped Mercedes-Benz succeed in Grand Prix racing. Its historical significance, along with its overall rarity, made this auction event a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors. The sale took place in the same room where RM Sotheby’s set the all-time record in 2022, auctioning the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR “Uhlenhaut Coupé” for $138 million.
Mercedes-Benz Heritage CEO Marcus Breitschwerdt described the auction as “thrilling,” highlighting how rare it is for a Silver Arrow to enter private ownership. With its record-breaking sale price, the W 196 R joins an elite club of the most sought-after cars in history. View all RM Sotheby’s inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.
Source: Mercedes-Benz