A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has shattered records, becoming the most valuable car ever sold at auction, fetching an astounding 135 million EUR. This automotive icon, one of only two original prototypes, was sold to a private collector, marking a historic moment for both Mercedes-Benz and the world of classic cars. Named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, its visionary creator and chief engineer, the Mercedes-Benz SL 300 Coupe is celebrated globally by automotive experts and enthusiasts as a pinnacle of engineering and design.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal elements of our brand heritage. The decision to part with one of these extraordinary vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a noble cause. The auction proceeds will establish a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ Our aim is to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s innovative spirit, fostering the development of groundbreaking technologies, particularly in the crucial areas of decarbonization and environmental preservation. Witnessing a Mercedes-Benz SL 300 Coupe achieve the highest price ever paid for a car is truly remarkable and humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz reigns supreme 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 elaborated on the company’s commitment: “As a global corporation and a luxury brand, we recognize our profound responsibility to society. The funds generated from the sale of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe present us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, impactful initiative. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will be a global scholarship program dedicated to empowering young individuals in their academic pursuits, endeavors, and initiatives focused on building a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that access to education in these critical fields is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our time, fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund”: Investing in a Sustainable Future
The record-breaking auction of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe serves as the cornerstone for the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” a global initiative with a strong focus on environmental science and decarbonization. Mercedes-Benz has pledged further investments in the coming years to bolster this program. The fund will operate through two key sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to engage in research projects within environmental science.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities.
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” is specifically intended to support individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental projects and career aspirations. Beyond financial aid, the program will offer valuable extracurricular components, including mentorships from Mercedes-Benz experts, opening doors to promising career pathways. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Detailed plans regarding the program’s structure, rollout, and the partner organization will be announced later in the year.
Auction Details and the Legacy of an Icon
The historic auction of the Mercedes-Benz SL 300 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 select Mercedes-Benz clientele and international car and art collectors who share the company’s core values. The auctioned Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe was part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s private collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles dating back to the invention of the automobile in 1886.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in this initiative: “We are immensely proud to contribute our historical collection to this endeavor, bridging the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the auctioned Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains under company ownership and will continue to be a highlight at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe‘s mystique stems from its unique origins, distinctive design, and groundbreaking technology, ensuring its enduring appeal. Its design, particularly the iconic “gullwing” doors, established benchmarks that cemented its status as one of the most significant automotive icons globally. Coupled with its exceptional racing-derived performance, the Mercedes-Benz SL 300 Coupe has earned its legendary place in sports car history and a special spot in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be found at the Mercedes-Benz web special.
