When you think about Mercedes-Benz you think about class, luxury and just sheer beauty on the road. If you want to be driving around in a Mercedes-Benz it’s going to cost you a pretty penny. However, what may not be so obvious to you when you’re cruising around the road and spot a Benz is you’re looking at a car manufacturer with a rich history… and we mean rich.
According to various sources, the most expensive Mercedes-Benz ever sold isn’t based off a model you’ll find today’s celebrities cruising around in. The most expensive Benz ever sold is a Mercedes-Benz Formula One Racer. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196R is not only the most expensive Benz ever sold, it’s the most expensive car sold at auction ever. Dropping the hammer at a whopping $26.45 million fetched that price for many reasons, most notably the rich history the vehicle possesses.
According to Jonathan Klinger of Hagerty, the collectible car insurance firm: “It’s highly original.” He said that for a buyer “you’re really looking at a club of one. It’s not like another one will come down the road for sale.” Klinger also said that buyers from all over the world attended the auction for this vehicle.
This vehicle raced five World Championship-Qualifying Grand Prix races. It was eventually consigned to museums for the remainder of its career. It’s truly an amazing piece of innovation and brilliance for it’s time.
Image via Mercedes-Benz
