In an unprecedented event, one of only two original 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection was auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This landmark sale establishes it as the most valuable car ever sold, transcending its status as a mere automobile to become a symbol of automotive history and a catalyst for positive change.
This automotive icon, a relic from an era when Mercedes-Benz was forging legends both on and off the racetrack – an era that laid the groundwork for future classics, including the revered 80s Benz models – is an absolute rarity. Only two prototypes were ever crafted, named in honor of its visionary creator and chief engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Globally recognized by automotive experts and enthusiasts, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is celebrated as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, embodying the spirit of innovation that Mercedes-Benz has carried through decades, influencing even the design philosophies seen in the 80s benz lineup.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the profound significance of this moment: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and crucial historical artifacts that have defined our brand. The decision to part with one of these uniquely valuable vehicles was carefully considered, driven by a powerful purpose: to contribute to a greater good. The funds generated from this auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ Our aspiration with this fund is to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit, fostering the development of groundbreaking technologies, particularly those vital to achieving decarbonization and preserving our planet’s resources.” Källenius further noted the historical weight of the sale, “Achieving the highest price ever for a vehicle is both extraordinary and 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, responsible for the governance of the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”, highlighted the company’s broader commitment: “As a global corporation and a luxury brand, we recognize our significant responsibility to society. The proceeds from the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe auction present us with a unique opportunity to deepen this commitment through a long-term, impactful initiative. 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 these critical fields is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
Seeding a Scholarship Program for Future Innovators
The record-breaking auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provides the initial capital for this global initiative. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to augment this with further investments in the years ahead. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate across two distinct yet interconnected streams: University Scholarships, designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to engage in environmental science research projects, and School Scholarships, focusing on enabling pupils to implement local environmental projects within their own communities. Crucially, the program is designed to support individuals who lack the financial means to pursue these crucial projects and career paths. Beyond financial assistance, the program will incorporate valuable extracurricular elements, including mentorships from Mercedes-Benz experts, opening up new horizons for these young innovators. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Details regarding the program’s structure, implementation plan, and partner organization will be announced later in the year.
A Historic Auction at the Mercedes-Benz Museum
The auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with the esteemed auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed a select group of Mercedes-Benz’s valued clients and prominent international car and art collectors, all sharing Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was previously part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s private collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles, tracing the automobile’s evolution from its invention in 1886 to the present day. This collection not only preserves the legacy of vehicles like the 300 SLR, but also showcases the lineage of design and engineering excellence that extends to iconic models such as the 80s benz.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in the initiative: “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this vital initiative, forging a link between the legacy of automotive engineering and the future of decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a treasured asset of Mercedes-Benz, continuing to be exhibited at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is deeply rooted in its extraordinary origins, its groundbreaking design, and its innovative technology, ensuring its enduring appeal. Its design established new benchmarks, solidifying its place among the world’s most significant automotive icons, notably due to its distinctive gullwing doors – a design element that resonates even in the stylistic considerations of later Mercedes-Benz designs, though perhaps less overtly in the 80s benz era. Coupled with its exceptional performance, derived from purebred racing technology, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has cemented its legendary status in sports car mythology and secured a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts globally. It represents a pivotal moment in automotive history, the echoes of which can still be felt in the innovation and design ethos of Mercedes-Benz today, even when considering the diverse range of models, from classic racers to the popular 80s benz sedans and coupes.
For deeper insights into the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, explore our web special.
