In an unprecedented event, one of only two original 1955 Mercedes-benz 300 Slr Uhlenhaut Coupe Prototypes from the esteemed Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR to a private collector. This landmark sale establishes this automotive icon as the most valuable car in the world, surpassing all previous records and highlighting the unparalleled significance of this vehicle in automotive history.
This particular Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a true rarity, is one of just two prototypes meticulously crafted in 1955. It is named in honor of its creator and chief engineer, the legendary Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally widely regard the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype as an exceptional testament to automotive engineering and groundbreaking design. Its sale not only represents a historical moment but also a commitment to the future, as Mercedes-Benz directs the substantial proceeds towards a global cause.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the dual significance of the event: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not merely cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal historical artifacts that have profoundly shaped our brand. The decision to part with one of these unique vehicles was carefully considered and rooted in a powerful purpose – to channel the funds towards a truly beneficial cause. The extraordinary revenue generated from the auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Through this initiative, we aim to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit, fostering the development of groundbreaking technologies, particularly those crucial for achieving decarbonization and preserving our planet’s resources. Furthermore, achieving the highest price ever for a vehicle is both remarkable and humbling, unequivocally positioning a Mercedes-Benz as the most valuable automobile on the planet.”
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 broader societal responsibility: “As a global corporation and a leading luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz recognizes its profound responsibility to society. The funds realized from the sale of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype present us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship project. The establishment of the global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ scholarship program will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, endeavors, and initiatives aimed at fostering 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 contributing to enhanced global stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
Seeding a Global Scholarship Program for Future Innovation
The auction proceeds from the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype serve as the foundational capital for this ambitious global initiative. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to augment this initial investment with further resources in the years to come. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate across two distinct sub-categories: University Scholarships, designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to undertake impactful research in environmental science disciplines; and School Scholarships, targeted at enabling pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities. Crucially, the program will prioritize individuals who lack the financial means to pursue their environmental ambitions and educational paths. Beyond financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will incorporate invaluable extracurricular components, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby opening doors to promising career trajectories. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”, ensuring its effective and impactful operation. Detailed program structure, rollout plans, and the selected partner organization will be announced later in the year.
A Historic Auction for an Automotive Legend
The historic auction of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in collaboration with the esteemed auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed a curated audience of select Mercedes-Benz clients and prominent international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype offered at auction was previously part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s private collection, a remarkable assemblage of 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 pride in the contribution of the historical collection: “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this forward-looking initiative, bridging the legacy of the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to ensure that the auctioned 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype will remain accessible for public viewing on special occasions. Simultaneously, the second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a cherished part of company ownership and will continue to be showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate its enduring beauty and historical significance.”
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype holds an unparalleled mystique, stemming from its unique creation, distinctive design, and pioneering technology. Its design established benchmarks that cemented its status as one of the world’s most iconic automobiles, notably featuring the signature “gullwing” doors. Coupled with its exceptional performance derived from thoroughbred racing technology, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe prototype has rightfully earned its legendary place in sports car mythology and a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz aficionados worldwide.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be found in the web special.
