The Goodwood Festival of Speed, this year, saw the creation of a new record for the most expensive vehicle ever sold in an auction. It was the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196R Formula One car that went under the hammer at the festival and fetched an astonishing $29.6 million which was much more than the pre sale estimates. The previous record was held by a 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rosa which was purchased in 2011 for a significant $16.39 million. The records are generally not broken by such huge margins but this Mercedes Benz racer is a very special car.
Juan Manuel Fangio Won his Second Championship in This Car
It is the formula one car on which the Argentinean racing legend Juan Manuel Fangio won his second championship. The moment Bonhams auction house announced that the racer will go under the hammer, the entire automotive world, the car lovers and automotive journalist were speculating that the famous car is sure to create a new record. However, no one had anticipated that the single seater Mercedes Benz could go for as much as $29.6 million. Bonhams’ chairman, Robert Brooks justified the exorbitant price by calling the car the most important historic Grand Prix racing car ever offered for sale. Another factor that pushed the price up is that the car is believed to be in an immaculate condition.
The Successful Bidder is a Private Collector Who Bid on Phone
The car can be made fully functional after a proper preparation as no parts are missing. Such a significant car in workable condition is a great attraction for serious collectors. The final price includes the buyer’s premium and the successful bidder is a private collector who was participating in the auction over phone. It was a successful auction that brought together some rare machines. It was a great occasion for car lovers and collectors who got the opportunity to bid for old but famous cars that rarely come out of hiding. A 1955 Maserati 300S Sports Racing Spider also created the record for the most expensive Maserati ever auctioned. A 1965 Ferrari 330GT which was originally owned by John Lenon was also a big attraction at the auction.
Via: goodwood
