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.
Mercedes-Benz W196 R
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.
