The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 R Stromlinienwagen has made headlines for being auctioned for an astounding 51 million euros (approximately Rs 458 crore). This rare masterpiece is now the most expensive Formula 1 car ever auctioned, second only to the 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe. Let’s explore this historic F1 car’s details, specifications, features, and legacy.
Table of Contents
- Overview
- Key Historical Highlights
- Specifications
- Design and Features
- Pricing and Variants
- FAQs
- Titles, Descriptions, and Tags
1. Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Mercedes-Benz W196 R |
| Type | Formula 1 Car |
| Auction Price | 51 million euros (~Rs 458 crore) |
| Auction Date | February 1, 2025 |
| Auction Location | Mercedes-Benz Museum, Stuttgart |
| Buyer Details | Not Revealed |
| Notable Drivers | Juan Manuel Fangio, Sir Stirling Moss |
| Racing Debut | 1954 |
| Chassis Number | ‘00009/54’ |
2. Key Historical Highlights
| Event | Details |
| Racing Victories | Won the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix with Juan Manuel Fangio |
| Record Lap | Sir Stirling Moss recorded the fastest lap at the 1955 Italian GP |
| Post-Racing Career | Donated to Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in 1965 |
| Exhibition Highlights | Displayed at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and other events |
3. Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Engine Type | 2.5-litre straight-eight engine |
| Fuel System | Direct fuel injection |
| Power Output | Up to 290 hp |
| Top Speed | ~300 km/h |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Body Design | Streamlined aluminum bodywork |
| Chassis | Tubular space frame |
| Wheelbase | 2,320 mm |
| Weight | ~760 kg |
4. Design and Features
Streamlined Bodywork
- The W196 R’s body was meticulously designed for high-speed circuits like Monza.
- Aerodynamics played a crucial role, with its sleek lines reducing drag.
Innovative Engine Technology
- The straight-eight engine featured direct fuel injection, derived from WWII fighter planes.
- It produced a remarkable 290 hp, a significant feat in the 1950s.
Chassis and Handling
- The tubular space frame ensured rigidity while maintaining a lightweight structure.
- Advanced suspension systems provided precise handling at high speeds.
Driver-Centric Design
- The cockpit was designed for optimal driver comfort and control.
- Cutting-edge instrumentation provided real-time feedback to the driver.
5. Pricing and Variants
| Model Variant | Auction Price |
| 1954 W196 R Streamlined Body | 51 million euros (~Rs 458 crore) |
| 1955 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe | Rs 1,266 crore (2022) |
6. FAQs
- What makes the Mercedes W196 R unique?
- It’s one of only four complete examples with streamlined bodywork, featuring groundbreaking technology for its era.
- Who drove the W196 R in its racing career?
- Legendary drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio and Sir Stirling Moss.
- What engine does the W196 R have?
- A 2.5-litre straight-eight engine with direct fuel injection.
- How much horsepower does it produce?
- Up to 290 hp.
- What is the top speed of the W196 R?
- Approximately 300 km/h.
- When was it auctioned?
- February 1, 2025.
- Where was it auctioned?
- Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany.
- How much did it sell for?
- 51 million euros (~Rs 458 crore).
- What is the significance of chassis number ‘00009/54’?
- It represents the specific W196 R sold in this historic auction.
- What is the second most valuable car in the world?
- The 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe.
- Why was the streamlined body important?
- It maximized speed on high-speed circuits by reducing air resistance.
- What is direct fuel injection?
- A technology that delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber for efficiency.
- What was its post-racing career?
- Donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in 1965.
- Where has it been displayed?
- Events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
- What is its legacy?
- A symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s dominance in F1 during the 1950s.