In an unprecedented event that has redefined the landscape of automotive auctions, one of only two original 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been sold for an astounding 135 million EUR to a private collector. This landmark sale establishes the Mercedes 300 Slr Uhlenhaut Coupe as the most valuable car in the world, surpassing all previous records and solidifying its legendary status in automotive history. The momentous sale not only highlights the exceptional allure and rarity of this automotive icon but also channels its extraordinary value towards a transformative global cause.
This particular Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a jewel in the crown of automotive heritage, is one of just two prototypes ever crafted. It is named in honor of its visionary creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the then chief engineer at Mercedes-Benz. Automotive experts and enthusiasts across the globe widely regard the Uhlenhaut Coupe as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, representing a unique confluence of innovation, performance, and timeless elegance.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, articulated the profound significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not merely cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal elements of Mercedes-Benz’s storied legacy. The decision to part with one of these singular vehicles was driven by a powerful purpose – to generate funds for a truly meaningful cause. The proceeds from this 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 and develop groundbreaking technologies, particularly in the crucial domains of decarbonization and environmental stewardship. Simultaneously, achieving the highest price ever for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz is, indeed, 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 emphasized the company’s commitment to social responsibility: “As a global entity and a luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz recognizes its profound responsibility to society. The sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provides us with a singular opportunity to amplify this commitment through a long-term, flagship undertaking. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ scholarship program will empower young individuals in their pursuit of education, dedication, and impactful actions towards 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 greater stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund”: Cultivating Future Innovators
The remarkable proceeds from the auction of the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will serve as the foundational capital for the newly established global “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Mercedes-Benz has pledged to augment this initial investment with further resources in the years to come, ensuring the fund’s long-term impact and sustainability. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct yet interconnected sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to forge connections, educate, and inspire university students to engage in cutting-edge research projects focused on environmental science and related disciplines.
- School Scholarships: Targeting younger pupils, these scholarships will empower students to conceive and implement local environmental projects within their own communities, fostering grassroots environmental action.
The program’s core mission is to provide crucial financial support to talented individuals who lack the necessary means to pursue their educational aspirations and contribute to environmental innovation. Beyond financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will offer invaluable extracurricular elements, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby broadening career horizons and providing real-world guidance. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with a seasoned partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” ensuring its effective and impactful operation. Detailed plans regarding the fund’s structure, implementation, and the chosen partner organization will be unveiled later in the year.
A Legacy Auction: History Meets Future
The historic auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe 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 select group of Mercedes-Benz’s valued clientele and prominent international car and art collectors, all of whom share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned Uhlenhaut Coupe was an integral part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s private collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles spanning from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed the significance of this initiative: “We are immensely proud to leverage our historical collection to contribute to this forward-looking initiative, bridging the legacy of automotive engineering with the future of decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains a cherished asset of Mercedes-Benz, and will continue to be showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate its unparalleled beauty and historical importance.”
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is enveloped in an aura of mystique, stemming from its unique origins, groundbreaking design, and pioneering technology. Its design language established benchmarks that cemented its position among the most iconic automobiles globally, most notably its signature “gullwing” doors. Furthermore, its exceptional performance, derived from its purebred racing technology, has solidified the Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s legendary status in sports car lore and secured a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz devotees worldwide. This record-breaking auction not only celebrates an automotive masterpiece but also propels its legacy into a future dedicated to innovation and sustainability.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be explored in this web special.
