A 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner, an icon of Formula One's golden age, is poised to become one of the most valuable F1 cars ever sold at auction.
With an estimated value exceeding €50 million (around NZ$89.5 million), this legendary vehicle could outshine even the most celebrated modern F1 cars, like those driven by Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton.
Offered by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, this particular chassis, 00009/54, has been part of the museum’s collection for nearly six decades. RM Sotheby’s will manage the auction, scheduled for February 1, 2025, in Stuttgart, Germany.
The W 196 R Streamliner debuted at the 1954 French Grand Prix, marking Mercedes-Benz's triumphant return to Formula One.
Argentine driver Juan Manuel Fangio secured victory in the car, which contributed to his second world championship that year. This particular chassis made its competitive debut in 1955, driven by Fangio at the Formula Libre Buenos Aires Grand Prix, where it claimed first place.
Later that year, Sir Stirling Moss piloted the car during the Italian Grand Prix. Despite an initial strong performance, mechanical issues forced its retirement.
At the time of its retirement in 1955, only ten W 196 R models existed, all retained by Daimler-Benz.
Four were eventually donated to museums, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where this car has resided since 1965. Refurbished by Canepa Motorsports in 2015, the vehicle remains in its 1955 Italian Grand Prix livery.
While the car is unlikely to surpass the all-time auction record of $143 million set by a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, it is expected to become the most expensive Formula 1 car ever sold.
Collectors and enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the chance to own a vehicle steeped in motorsport history.
