In an unprecedented event that has reset the bar for automotive ارزش, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has been auctioned for a staggering €135 million. This sale, to a private collector, officially makes it the most valuable car in the world, eclipsing all previous records by a significant margin. This ultra-rare vehicle, one of only two original prototypes, hails from the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection. The name “Uhlenhaut Coupe” itself is derived from its creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the then chief engineer at Mercedes-Benz, and the car is globally revered as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the profound rationale behind this landmark sale. “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal artifacts that have molded the Mercedes-Benz legacy. The decision to part with one of these unique vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose: to channel the proceeds towards a truly meaningful cause. 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 for achieving decarbonization and preserving our planet’s resources,” Källenius stated. He further added, “Achieving the highest vehicle price ever is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz is, and always will be, the most prized car in the world.”
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, underscored the broader societal responsibility inherent in this initiative. “As a global corporation and a leading luxury brand, we acknowledge our significant responsibility to society,” she explained. “The proceeds from the sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe present us with a singular opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship undertaking. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ global scholarship program will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, their dedication, and their proactive measures towards a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical domains is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our era and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
“Mercedes-Benz Fund”: Seeding Future Innovation through Scholarships
The auction proceeds from the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe serve as the foundational capital for the global “Mercedes-Benz Fund” initiative. Mercedes-Benz has committed to further augmenting this fund with additional investments in the years ahead. The fund will operate through two distinct sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to engage in environmental science research projects.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities.
The program’s financial support will prioritize individuals who lack the necessary financial resources to pursue their projects and career aspirations. Beyond monetary aid, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will incorporate valuable extracurricular components, such as mentorships with Mercedes-Benz experts, providing invaluable career guidance and opportunities. Mercedes-Benz is currently in the process of selecting an experienced partner organization to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” with detailed plans and the partner announcement expected later this year.
A Historic Auction for a Historic Car
The landmark auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum. This exclusive event, conducted in collaboration with the prestigious auction house RM Sotheby’s, was by invitation only, attended by select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was a prized piece from Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles spanning from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in the historical collection’s contribution to this forward-looking initiative. “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this vital initiative, bridging the legacy of automotive engineering with the future of decarbonization technology,” he stated. He also confirmed that, “The private buyer has graciously agreed that the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain under company ownership and will continue to be a highlight of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The Enduring Mystique of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s enduring mystique stems from its unique origins, groundbreaking design, and innovative technology. Its design language established benchmarks that cemented its status as one of the world’s most iconic automobiles, most notably recognized for its distinctive “gullwing” doors. Furthermore, its exceptional performance, derived from its thoroughbred racing technology, solidified its legendary status in sports car history and secured a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR price reflects not just its material value, but its unparalleled historical and cultural significance.
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