In a remarkable auction event, a slice of motor racing legacy has established a new standard, breaking records in the process. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner, an iconic Formula One vehicle recognized as one of the most influential ever produced, was sold by RM Sotheby’s for an astounding €51,155,000 ($55.3 million USD). This sale not only sets a new record for the most expensive Mercedes-Benz competition car auctioned but also places it among the priciest Formula One cars in history.
Among just four W 196 R models ever built with the Streamliner bodywork, this specific model, identified as chassis number 00009/54, holds a unique place. Juan Manuel Fangio steered it to victory at the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix, and later, Sir Stirling Moss took the wheel at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where he established the fastest lap.
In 1965, after retiring from racing, Mercedes-Benz generously gave its car to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum for preservation. Over the past 59 years, this vehicle has been carefully maintained. It’s been showcased at notable automotive events such as Pebble Beach and the Petersen Automotive Museum throughout its time there.
The W 196 R significantly contributed to Mercedes-Benz’s powerful comeback in Formula One, winning consecutive World Championships in 1954 and 1955. This automobile was crafted by Rudolf Uhlenhaut and introduced advanced technology such as desmodromic valve actuation and direct fuel injection, which left lasting impacts on both racing and street vehicles of the future.
The extraordinary W 196 R Streamliner, with its exceptional racing heritage, authentic Monza livery, legendary origin, and a record-breaking sale price, has undeniably earned a place among the most remarkable auction outcomes in motor sports history.
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2025-03-04 11:56