In an unprecedented event that has reverberated throughout the automotive world, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This record-breaking sale to a private collector establishes this automotive icon as the most valuable car ever sold, eclipsing all previous records and cementing its legendary status. This ultra-rare vehicle, one of only two original prototypes ever constructed, is not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history, a testament to engineering brilliance, and a symbol of timeless design. Named after its visionary creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is revered by experts and enthusiasts globally as a pinnacle of automotive achievement.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, articulated the profound significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are epochal milestones in sports car evolution, integral to the heritage of our brand. The decision to part with one of these unique vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a noble purpose: to channel the proceeds into a global scholarship program. Through the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund,’ we aim to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit, fostering the development of groundbreaking technologies, particularly in the crucial domains of decarbonization and environmental stewardship. The unprecedented auction price is both remarkable and humbling, unequivocally positioning a Mercedes-Benz as the most valuable car in existence.”
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, emphasized the broader societal responsibility underpinning this initiative: “As a global corporation and a luxury marque, we acknowledge our profound responsibility to society. The funds generated from the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe auction afford us a singular opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship undertaking. The establishment of the global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, endeavors, and initiatives aimed at a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical fields is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our era and fostering enhanced stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
Fueling Future Innovation: The Mercedes-Benz Fund
The substantial proceeds from the auction of the iconic 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will serve as the foundational capital for the newly established global initiative, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Mercedes-Benz has pledged further substantial investments in the years to come, underscoring its long-term commitment to this vital program. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct yet interconnected sub-categories. Firstly, University Scholarships will be awarded to foster collaboration, education, and research among university students engaged in pioneering environmental science projects. Secondly, School Scholarships will focus on empowering younger pupils to conceptualize and implement local environmental projects within their communities.
Crucially, the program is designed to support individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental ambitions and educational pathways. Beyond mere financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will incorporate invaluable extracurricular components, such as mentorship programs with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby unlocking new career horizons for promising young talents. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with a seasoned partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Comprehensive details regarding the program’s structure, implementation strategy, and partner organization will be disclosed later in the year.
A Historic Auction for a Historic Car
The momentous auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe transpired on May 5th, hosted at the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Museum in collaboration with the renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive guest list comprised 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 formerly a treasured part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 automobiles spanning from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed his pride in this initiative: “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this forward-looking endeavor, bridging the legacy of automotive engineering with the future of decarbonization technology. The private collector who acquired the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has graciously agreed to keep the vehicle accessible for public display on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains a prized asset of the company and will continue to be showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s captivating history, distinctive design, and pioneering technology have cultivated an enduring mystique. Its design innovations established new benchmarks, firmly placing it among the most iconic automobiles globally, not least due to its signature gullwing doors. Coupled with its exceptional performance derived from thoroughbred racing technology, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has secured its legendary position in sports car mythology and a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz aficionados worldwide.
Learn more about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe in this web special.
