Key takeaways from the auction of the Mercedes W196 R:

• The Mercedes W196 R Stromlinienwagen fetched a record €51.155 million ($53.01 million) at auction.
• Driven by legends Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, it became the most expensive grand prix car sold at auction.
• The auction took place at the Mercedes museum in Stuttgart, Germany, and was conducted by RM Sotheby’s.
• The car is one of only four complete examples in existence and was auctioned to support the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's museum.
• Previous records include a 1954 Mercedes W196 sold for $29.6 million.

In a landmark auction at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, the Mercedes W196 R Stromlinienwagen, a grand prix car piloted by Formula One greats Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss in 1955, was sold for a staggering €51.155 million (approximately $53.01 million). This transaction not only marks an unprecedented sale for a grand prix car but also reinforces the legacy of the legendary drivers associated with it.

The sleek vehicle, known for its remarkable engineering and design, commanded attention with an initial price estimate exceeding €50 million. Bidding escalated quickly, reaching €40 million in increments of €5 million before concluding with a final bid of €46.5 million. The total sale price included the buyers' premium.

Prior to this event, the most expensive grand prix car sold at auction was another Mercedes W196 model, which fetched $29.6 million at Goodwood in 2013. The latest auctioned car, belonging to chassis number 00009/54, was showcased on behalf of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), which received this notable piece from Mercedes in 1965. Following this sale, the proceeds will support the museum's restoration and expansion initiatives.

Remarkably, this specific W196 R was driven to victory by Fangio during the non-championship Buenos Aires Grand Prix and later raced by Moss at the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he achieved the fastest lap at an average speed of 134 mph before retiring. The car represents a critical chapter in the history of Formula One, especially as it coincides with a significant moment for the Mercedes team, which withdrew from factory-sponsored motorsport in 1955 after a tragic incident at the Le Mans 24 Hours.

The auction's success further solidifies the enduring fascination with motorsport heritage, with Rosemary addressing the historical significance, stating, "It's a beautiful car, it's a very historic car, it's just a little bit outside our scope window," emphasizing the car's importance within the automotive world.

For detailed coverage, refer to the articles by Reuters, BBC, and The Guardian.