Legendary 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner to Be Auctioned in Stuttgart by RM Sotheby’s and Mercedes-Benz Heritage

The legendary 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner, a motorsport icon driven by Fangio and Moss, will be auctioned in Stuttgart on February 1, 2025, by RM Sotheby’s.

The iconic 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R “Stromlinienrennwagen,” one of the most significant race cars in motorsport history, will be auctioned in a standalone event at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart on February 1, 2025.

Offered in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Heritage and RM Sotheby’s, this historic vehicle represents a rare opportunity for private ownership, with proceeds benefiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum’s collection and restoration efforts.

The legendary 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner, a motorsport icon driven by Fangio and Moss, will be auctioned in Stuttgart on February 1, 2025, by RM Sotheby’s. — *Legendary 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamliner to Be Auctioned in Stuttgart by RM Sotheby’s and Mercedes-Benz Heritage.*

A Rare and Storied Racing Machine

Chassis No. 00009/54 is one of only four complete examples featuring the stunning streamlined “Stromlinien” bodywork. Driven by legends Juan Manuel Fangio and Sir Stirling Moss, the car secured significant achievements, including Fangio’s victory at the 1955 Buenos Aires Grand Prix and Moss’s fastest lap at the 1955 Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

Originally donated to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum by Mercedes-Benz in 1965, the car has been meticulously preserved, making select appearances at major exhibitions. This marks the first time a W 196 R with streamlined bodywork has been offered for private sale.

Racing and Engineering Excellence

The W 196 R, known for its advanced engineering and streamlined design, dominated Grand Prix racing during its two-season run. Powered by a 2.5-liter straight-eight engine producing 290 hp, it incorporated innovative technologies such as fuel injection and a Hirth roller-bearing crankshaft. The streamlined body, designed for high-speed tracks, delivered unparalleled performance. Between 1954 and 1955, the W 196 R achieved 11 wins in 14 starts, cementing its legacy as a motorsport icon.

Auction Details

Presented in its 1955 Monza Grand Prix livery, the car is extensively documented with period materials, including expert reports from Mercedes-Benz Classic. This sale, conducted by RM Sotheby’s in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Classic, will showcase the W 196 R alongside an 11-car collection from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.