Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (Germany, 1954-1956)

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR race car, also known as the Uhlenhaut-Coupé, was constructed between 1954 and 1955 in two versions, one open-top roadster and a closed gull wing coupé. Until today, it is regarded as a highlight in the pedigree of the Mercedes-Benz cars.

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Roadster made motorsport history in 1955, when it broke the record at the Mille Miglia road race. The car entered 6 races in that year, winning 5. The record set at the Italian race, average speed of 97.7 mph, still stands.

Based on the SLR chassis, in 1955 Mercedes-Benz built a coupé version, intended for long-distance races, to allow drivers a more comfortable race. It was the fastest road-legal enclosed car at the time. Just two cars were made and never left Mercedes hands. Today, they are a show-stopper at the Mercedes-Benz Museum.