The most expensive car ever sold, according to the record documented by Mercedes-Benz, RM Sotheby’s and Guinness World Records, is a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé. It sold in 2022 for a reported €135 million. That is an all-time sale record—not the price of a new car currently on sale.
What is the most expensive car ever sold?
The record-setting car was one of two original 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupés, according to Mercedes-Benz. The car sold at the Mercedes-Benz Museum on 5 May 2022 in a transaction conducted in cooperation with RM Sotheby’s.
Mercedes-Benz and RM Sotheby’s reported the sale price as €135 million. Guinness World Records records the auction result, including the buyer’s premium, as $142,769,250 (£115.1 million; €135.1 million). These figures use different reporting and currency conventions; the Guinness amount explicitly includes the premium.
How the record was announced—and what it replaced
The sale took place on 5 May 2022. RM Sotheby’s published its announcement on 19 May 2022, reporting €135,000,000 and identifying a Ferrari 250 GTO sold by the auction house in 2018 as the previous auction-record holder. That comparison establishes the prior auction record, not a complete ranking of all high-value car transactions.
#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.
Mercedes-Benz Media called the 300 SLR “the most valuable car of all time” in its 19 May 2022 release. That is the manufacturer’s description of the sale, rather than the result of a disclosed independent valuation method. The record can change if a later sale exceeds it.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why “most expensive” needs a category
A record auction sale is not the same thing as the price of the most expensive new car available to buy. Public auctions, private transactions and current retail prices are separate categories, and their reported figures may use different currencies or include different fees. The sources documenting the 300 SLR sale establish an auction record; they do not establish a full ranking of private sales or today’s new-car prices.
Rank #2
- Brand new box. Real rubber tires. Has opening front doors. Detailed interior, exterior. Officially licensed product. Made of diecast with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately L-8.5, W-3.5, H-2.75 inches.
The 300 SLR was exceptionally rare: Mercedes-Benz says only two original examples existed. That fact gives context to the record, but the available sale reporting does not quantify how rarity, provenance, engineering or condition contributed to the final price. It does not establish a formula for valuing other collector cars.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Brand new box. Real rubber tires. Detailed interior, exterior. Officially licensed product. Has opening hood and front doors. Made of diecast with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately L-8, W-3.5, H-2.75 inches.
Rank #3
- 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.
Record sale at a glance
| Detail | Reported information |
|---|---|
| Car | 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé; one of two original examples, according to Mercedes-Benz |
| Transaction date and venue | 5 May 2022, Mercedes-Benz Museum |
| Sale context | Conducted in cooperation with RM Sotheby’s |
| Reported amount | €135 million, as reported by Mercedes-Benz and RM Sotheby’s |
| Amount including premium | $142,769,250 (£115.1 million; €135.1 million), according to Guinness World Records |
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.
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