The most expensive Formula 1 automobile ever sold at auction was a 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 R Stromlinienwagen, which went for 51 million euros, or around Rs 458 crore. Notably, it is one of just four complete prototypes that had streamlined bodywork that was manufactured in a factory. On February 1, 2025, RM Sotheby held the bidding at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. The buyer’s details were not immediately made public.
In addition, the 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut coupe, which sold for around Rs 1,266 crore at auction in 2022, is the second most costly vehicle in the world. With chassis number “00009/54,” the W196 R has a long racing history. At the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix, five-time Formula 1 World Champion Juan Manuel Fangio drove it to victory. At the 1955 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, Italy, Sir Stirling Moss also drove the same vintage Mercedes F1 vehicle, which finished with the race’s best lap. In 1965, Mercedes gave the W196 R to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum following the conclusion of its competitive career. It was maintained by the museum for almost 60 years, and it was periodically on exhibit.
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Mercedes-Benz’s successful comeback to Formula 1 in the 1950s was largely attributed to the W196 R. This iconic Formula One race vehicle had a 2.5-liter straight-eight engine that produced up to 290 horsepower and had valve actuation and direct fuel injection. One of the most cutting-edge Formula One vehicles of its day, its sleek bodywork was created to maximize speed on fast tracks like Monza.
The historical and mechanical significance of the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 R Stromlinienwagen is highlighted by its record-breaking €51 million auction. Its reputation as the priciest Formula One vehicle ever sold is linked to the great drivers Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio. It was the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s success in Formula 1 in the 1950s because to its revolutionary aerodynamics and potent 2.5L straight-eight engine. Its return to private ownership after decades at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum that brings in a new era for this unique masterpiece for all F1 car lovers.
