In an unprecedented event, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a vehicle of unparalleled rarity and historical significance, has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This record-breaking sale to a private collector not only crowns this automotive icon as the most valuable car in history but also marks the beginning of a global initiative for environmental sustainability. This extraordinary Mercedes Sl 300 Coupe, one of only two ever produced, stands as a testament to automotive engineering excellence and now, a beacon for future innovation.
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is more than just a car; it’s a legend. Named after its creator, the brilliant Mercedes-Benz chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, this coupe represents the pinnacle of 1950s automotive design and engineering. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize it as one of the finest cars ever conceived, embodying both breathtaking performance and timeless beauty. Originally designed as a road-going version of the successful Mercedes-Benz SLR racing car, only two prototypes were ever completed, making each one an irreplaceable piece of automotive history.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the profound rationale behind this landmark sale. “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal elements of our brand’s heritage. The decision to part with one of these unique vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose: to invest in a better future. The funds generated from this auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ Our aim is to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit and develop groundbreaking technologies, particularly those focused on the urgent global challenge of decarbonization and resource conservation. Witnessing a Mercedes-Benz achieve the highest value ever for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling, affirming the enduring legacy and value of our brand.”
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 commitment. “As a global entity and a luxury marque, Mercedes-Benz acknowledges a significant responsibility to society. The proceeds from the sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provide us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship initiative. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will be a global scholarship program dedicated to supporting young individuals in their academic pursuits and their dedication to a more sustainable world. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in environmental sciences is paramount to addressing the critical challenges of our era and fostering greater global stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund”: Investing in a Sustainable Future
The record-breaking auction of the Mercedes SL 300 Coupe serves as the foundational capital for the ambitious “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Mercedes-Benz has pledged to further invest in this initiative in the years to come. The fund will operate across two key sub-categories: University Scholarships, designed to connect, educate, and empower students to engage in cutting-edge environmental science research, and School Scholarships, focused on enabling pupils to implement impactful local environmental projects within their communities. Crucially, the program will prioritize individuals lacking the financial resources to pursue these vital educational and career paths. Beyond financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will offer extracurricular support, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, opening doors to promising career prospects within the industry and related fields. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the fund, ensuring its effectiveness and global reach. Detailed plans for the fund’s structure, implementation, and the partner organization will be announced later this year.
A Historic Auction for a Historic Car
The momentous 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 select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was previously part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles, charting the evolution of the automobile from its inception in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in this initiative. “We are immensely proud to contribute our historical collection to an initiative that bridges the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains a cherished part of our company’s heritage and will continue to be displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, ensuring that this automotive masterpiece can be appreciated by generations to come.”
The Mercedes SL 300 Coupe, particularly the Uhlenhaut version, is shrouded in mystique due to its unique origins, groundbreaking design, and innovative technology. Its distinctive “gullwing” doors and unparalleled racing pedigree have cemented its status as an automotive icon. The exceptional engineering and performance of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe have not only earned it a legendary status in sports car history but also a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide. This record-breaking auction and the establishment of the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” ensure that the legacy of the Mercedes SL 300 Coupe will extend far beyond its automotive brilliance, driving positive change for a sustainable future.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be found at the Mercedes-Benz web special.
