A stunning vintage Mercedes that was driven by both Sir Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio is hitting the market.
The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Streamliner ‘Monza’ has an estimated worth of a whopping £53.9m.
When it was released, the open-wheel body W196 was driven during a non-points race in Buenos Aires by Fangio.
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A year later, the car was be kitted out with its now iconic streamlined body work.
The vehicle was then driven by Sir Stirling Moss at the 1955 Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
He achieved the fastest lap in this car, which gave him one point in the World Drivers’ Championship.
Following its impressive racing prowess, Mercedes-Benz decided to use the motor as a practice and test car.
Ten years after its performance at the Italian Grand Prix, the car was donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway directly from the factory.
Now the IMS museum and auctioneers RM Sotheby’s have teamed up to sell the vehicle, as reported by Luxury Auto News.
Joe Hale, president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, stated: “Our Stories Behind the Spectacle capital campaign is helping to fund the complete reimagining of the IMS Museum, from new structural and state-of-the-art technology installations to interactive exhibits and experiences.
“The deaccession and sale of these artefacts are earmarked specifically to help us create a more robust endowment to be used for caring for our collection, ensuring our long-term financial viability and position as an internationally recognized cultural institution for years to come.”
Gord Duff, global head of auctions for RM Sotheby’s, added: “We’re excited to partner with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum to ensure that it is able to continue sharing the stories of the Indianapolis 500 and Indianapolis Motor Speedway for generations to come.
“These vehicles will be some of the world’s most significant cars ever sold.
“From the Moss/Fangio-raced W196 to the Le Mans-winning 250 LM, and even a land speed record car, these aren’t just significant; they are the pinnacle of collecting.
“There is almost nothing to compare them to, and knowing they are being sold for such a worthy cause is a great feeling.”
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