Juan Manuel Fangio’s 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen, chassis 00009/54, sold for €51,155,000 at RM Sotheby’s auction in Stuttgart on 1 February 2025. It became the most valuable Grand Prix racing car sold at auction—but not the most expensive car ever sold at public auction.
How much did Fangio’s Mercedes sell for?
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum sold the car for €51,155,000 at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. Mercedes-Benz reported a dollar equivalent of $53,917,370. RM Sotheby’s search result displayed a different dollar figure, so the euro sale price is the clearest figure to use without introducing a separate currency-conversion date or basis. Mercedes-Benz’s sale announcement gives the result and its dollar equivalent.
Did it become the world’s most expensive car?
No—not by the overall public-auction ranking. The 2025 sale made the W 196 R the most valuable Grand Prix racing car sold at auction, but it ranked second among cars sold at public auction. The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé remains ahead: RM Sotheby’s reports that it sold for €135 million in 2022. These rankings concern reported public auctions; they do not establish a universal ranking that includes private transactions. RM Sotheby’s account of the W 196 R sale discusses both records.
What made this car historically significant?
A championship-era Mercedes-Benz
The W 196 R was built for the 1954 Grand Prix regulations, which permitted engines up to 2.5 litres. This example, chassis 00009/54, had a notable racing history before joining the museum’s collection.
#1 Best Overall
- Experience the timeless elegance of the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe with this meticulously crafted 1:36 scale die-cast model from KiNSMART. This collectible captures the iconic gull-wing design and classic styling of one of history's most celebrated super cars. Featuring functional doors that open, pullback action for interactive play, and authentic details from chrome accents to rubber tires, this model combines display-worthy craftsmanship with engaging playability. The die-cast metal construction provides a substantial feel, while plastic components complete the authentic look. At 1:36 scale, it's the perfect size for collectors and play. This officially licensed Mercedes-Benz replica makes an excellent addition to any model car collection or as a sophisticated desk display piece. Suitable for ages 3 and up, it brings together durability and precise detailing that collectors and young car enthusiasts will appreciate.
- AUTHENTIC REPLICA : Officially licensed 1:36 scale die-cast model of the iconic 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe in elegant finish.
- INTERACTIVE FEATURES : Functioning doors that open and close, plus pull-back action motor for realistic rolling movement.
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION : Die-cast metal body with detailed plastic components and rubber tires for enhanced realism and durability.
- DETAILED DESIGN : Meticulously crafted exterior features including signature gulSPECIFICATIONS: Suitable for children ages 3 and up, perfect size for collectors and play, featuring precise 1:36 scale proportionsl-wing doors, chrome accents, and classic Mercedes-Benz grille.
Fangio and Moss drove it in Grand Prix races
Fangio drove the Streamliner-bodied car to victory at the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix. Stirling Moss drove it at the 1955 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. Formula 1’s 2025 pre-auction report said the car had not been formally presented for judging or driven in vintage events since it entered museum care; that is a statement from the pre-sale report, not a new inspection claim. Formula 1’s pre-auction report describes its race history and museum-era status.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who sold it, and where will the proceeds go?
The seller was the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Daimler-Benz donated chassis 00009/54 to the museum in 1965. In its pre-sale statement, museum president J. Douglas Boles called the W 196 R “a remarkable piece of motorsport history” and said the proceeds would help secure the collection’s future, support acquisitions and fund necessary restoration work. The museum’s announcement gives its account of the donation and intended use of proceeds.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Compatible model : for A-Class 2016-2018 , for B-Class 2015-2019 , for GLA 2017-2019 , for CLA 2015-2019 ,for GLS 2016-2019 , for GLE 2015-2019 , for CLS 2014-2017 , for SL 2016-2019
- Note:the product 12pcs/set, packaging is divided into two layers, after taking the top layer, you also need to take the following .Before you purchase, pls DOUBLE CHECK your Car button by referring to the 2nd image. If you don't know whether this cover fits your car or not, pls ask us by sending your button photos.
- Protection:Made of High Quality ABS Plastic treatment makes more wearable ,Durable and prevents your car from finger nails and keys scratches. Covering the existing scratches.this cover trim is sturdy, rustless and scratch-resistant, to ensure maximum strength and durability for long lasting usage
- Easy to install:With double side adhesive tape,No drilling or cutting required,easy to install.You may Keep the surface dry and clean during installation, use hair dryer to warm up the adhesive tape before install to make the item stick tightly.
- Package Include : 12 PCS Steering Wheel Button Stickers .Please note that these stickers act as a protective and decorative role and do not replace the original button.Be careful ,Please do not use and clean them within 48 hours after installation.
Rank #3
- DIE-CAST CONSTRUCTION: Premium 1:36 scale Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG model featuring authentic die-cast metal body with precise detailing and metallic finish
- INTERACTIVE DESIGN: Working gull-wing doors reveal detailed interior, plus pull-back motor mechanism for exciting forward-driving action
- AUTHENTIC STYLING: Expertly crafted with signature Mercedes-Benz design elements including distinctive front grille, side vents, and classic proportions
- PERFECT DISPLAY SIZE: Measures 5 inches in length, making it ideal for desktop display or showcasing in a collection
- DURABLE BUILD: High-quality die-cast metal construction with rubber tires and plastic components ensures lasting durability for both play and display
Rank #2
- High-Quality Materials:The Mercedes Benz GTS die-cast car is made of zinc alloy,plastic parts and rubber tires,making it safe for children to play with.It features detailed interior and exterior trim, and is very sturdy.
- Function:No batteries are required, but the vehicle has a powerful pull back feature. Simply pull it back, then release your hand, and the car will go for a long distance. The doors may be opened to view the whole inside of the vehicle. So appealing to children and collectors alike.
- Size:1/36 scale vehicle model with beautiful English packaging,ideal for toddlers to play with and carry. Car collectors will appreciate the perfect small size, which allows them to collect a complete set of cars without taking up too much space.
- Grow From Play:Help children learn more about car ,expand their knowledge ,increase the hand-eye coordination and the reaction speed of the children in the play.
- Ideal Christmas Festival Gift:All of TOKAXI die-cast model cars are attractively packaged in English, making them the perfect Christmas, Birthday, Children's Day, New Year gift for kids, party favors, home decorations, or travel toys for boys and girls.gifts for boys girls.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
