The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen, one of the most iconic racing cars in motorsport history, is set to be auctioned at a standalone event at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart on February 1, 2025. This exclusive auction, hosted by RM Sotheby’s in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Heritage, marks a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of motorsport legend.
A Historic Racing Masterpiece
Chassis No. 00009/54 is no ordinary car. It is the first Streamliner-bodied W 196 R to be offered for private ownership, and its racing history is unparalleled. The car was driven by Juan Manuel Fangio, a five-time Formula One World Champion, to victory at the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix, and by the celebrated Sir Stirling Moss, who achieved the fastest lap at the 1955 Italian Grand Prix in Monza.
Crafted with Streamliner coachwork, the car is one of only four known examples fitted with this aerodynamic body design, making it a true rarity. Its exceptional performance and groundbreaking engineering made the W 196 R the car to beat during its era, dominating the Formula One circuits of the mid-1950s.
Engineering Excellence and Racing Legacy
Developed to meet the new Formula One regulations introduced in 1954, the W 196 R features a straight-eight, 2.5-liter engine with fuel injection and a Hirth roller-bearing crankshaft. Capable of producing 290 horsepower, the car was a marvel of engineering. Its aerodynamic Streamliner body, designed to reduce drag on high-speed circuits, perfectly complemented its innovative engine, ensuring superior performance on the track.
The W 196 R made its debut at the 1954 French Grand Prix in Reims, where Fangio and teammate Karl Kling secured a stunning 1-2 finish, marking Mercedes-Benz’s triumphant return to Grand Prix racing. Over two seasons, the W 196 R achieved 11 victories in 14 races, solidifying its reputation as one of the most successful racing cars ever built.
Chassis No. 00009/54: A Rare Opportunity
This particular car, Chassis No. 00009/54, has an illustrious history both on and off the track. After its competitive career, it was donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum by Mercedes-Benz in 1965, where it has been meticulously maintained for nearly six decades. It has appeared at prestigious events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the Petersen Automotive Museum, showcasing its timeless appeal and historical significance.
Presented in its 1955 Monza livery, this car is accompanied by extensive documentation, including reports from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, verifying its originality and authenticity. It is a true motorsport icon, having been driven by two of the greatest racing legends in history.
An Auction for the Ages
The sale of Chassis No. 00009/54 forms part of an 11-car collection from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, being offered to benefit the museum’s collection and restoration efforts. This exclusive auction is expected to attract collectors and enthusiasts from around the world, as the W 196 R represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of motorsport history.
Why This Car Matters
The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen is more than a car; it is a testament to the golden era of motorsport. Its groundbreaking engineering, racing pedigree, and association with legendary drivers like Fangio and Moss make it a symbol of excellence in automotive history. As the first Streamliner W 196 R to be offered for private ownership, its availability marks a monumental event in the world of collector cars.
About RM Sotheby’s
With over 40 years of expertise, RM Sotheby’s is the leading auction house for collector cars, known for record-breaking sales and exceptional service. Their collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Heritage ensures this auction will be a historic occasion, offering unparalleled access to one of the most significant racing cars ever built.
Save the Date
The auction of the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen will take place on February 1, 2025, at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. Don’t miss the chance to witness the sale of one of the most important cars in automotive history.
For more details, visit rmsothebys.com
