In an unprecedented event for automotive history, one of only two original Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupés from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This sale to a private collector establishes the Mercedes 300 Slr Uhlenhaut Coupé as the most valuable car in the world, surpassing all previous records and highlighting the vehicle’s exceptional rarity and historical importance.
This iconic car, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé, is not just any classic vehicle; it’s an absolute rarity. Only two prototypes were ever constructed, making it an automotive legend revered by experts and enthusiasts globally. Named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, its creator and chief engineer, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé is celebrated as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, explained the significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupés are milestones in sports car development and key historical elements that have shaped our brand. The decision to sell one of these two unique sports cars was taken with very sound reasoning – to benefit a good cause. The proceeds from the auction will fund a global scholarship program. With the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ we would like to encourage a new generation to follow in Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s innovative footsteps and develop amazing new technologies, particularly those that support the critical goal of decarbonization and resource preservation. At the same time, achieving the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is extraordinary and humbling: A Mercedes-Benz is by far the most valuable car in the world.”
The immense value of the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé is not just monetary. Mercedes-Benz intends to use this record-breaking sale to drive meaningful change. Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, emphasized the company’s societal responsibility: “As a global company and as a luxury brand we bear a great level of responsibility towards society. The proceeds from the sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provide us with a unique opportunity to strengthen our commitment with a long-term flagship project: We will establish the global scholarship program ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ supporting young people in their studies, commitment and actions towards a more sustainable future. We are convinced that access to education in these areas will be crucial in encountering the great challenges of our time and contribute to greater stability, prosperity and social cohesion.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will be initiated with the auction proceeds, and Mercedes-Benz has committed to further investment in the coming years. This fund will be divided into two categories: University Scholarships to support research in environmental science, and School Scholarships to facilitate local environmental projects. The program aims to support individuals lacking financial resources and will include mentorships to enhance career prospects. Mercedes-Benz is partnering with an experienced organization to manage the fund, with details to be announced later in the year.
The auction, held on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in collaboration with RM Sotheby’s, was an exclusive event for selected Mercedes-Benz clients and international car and art collectors. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé was part of Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which includes over 1100 vehicles dating back to the invention of the automobile.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, highlighted the significance of the event for both the past and future: “We are proud that we can contribute with our historical collection to this initiative connecting the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has agreed that the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public display on special occasions, while the second original 300 SLR Coupe remains in company ownership and will continue to be displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The mystique surrounding the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé stems from its unique creation, distinctive “gullwing” doors, and groundbreaking racing technology. These elements have cemented its place as an automotive icon and a cherished part of Mercedes-Benz history. This record-breaking auction not only underscores the enduring allure of the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé but also its new role in fostering future innovation through the Mercedes-Benz Fund.
For further information on this remarkable vehicle, visit the Mercedes-Benz web special.
