Classic car auctions are often showcases of history, wealth, and fierce competition among collectors.
These events capture the imagination with tales of engineering marvels, legendary races, and multi-million-dollar bids that push the boundaries of value in the automotive world.
This past weekend, one of the rarest and most iconic race cars in history was sold at auction, setting a new milestone in the world of classic car collecting.
The Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen from 1954 went under the hammer for an astonishing €51.15 million at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany.
According to Boosted.dk, the auction was conducted by RM Sotheby’s, which had estimated the car could sell for over €50 million.
The final price exceeded expectations, making it the second most expensive car ever sold at auction. The record holder remains another Mercedes—a 300 SLR "Uhlenhaut" coupé, which was auctioned for over €135 million in 2022.
A Legendary Motorsport Legacy
The W 196 R Stromlinienwagen holds a revered place in racing history.
Driven to victory by Juan Manuel Fangio at the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix and setting the fastest lap at the Italian Grand Prix that same year with Stirling Moss at the wheel, the car exemplifies Mercedes-Benz’s dominance in mid-century motorsport.
This particular W 196 R is one of only four surviving models with the factory-built "streamlined" body.
It had been displayed for years at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, with experts advising caution for the new owner when restarting the car due to its prolonged inactivity.
Historic Sale Draws Global Attention
Unlike typical high-profile auctions, which feature multiple cars or collectibles, this exclusive event focused solely on the W 196 R.
The high demand and rarity of the vehicle underscored its significance in the auction world.
Gord Duff, RM Sotheby’s auction director, described the sale as monumental. "This car is simply one of the most important race cars in history," he stated.
With this auction, the W 196 R has cemented its status as a treasure in automotive history.
Its new owner remains anonymous, but the sale highlights the enduring allure and value of legendary race cars on the global market.
