Replica of $54 Million Mercedes W196 Streamliner Discovered in Mexico

The Legendary Mercedes-Benz W196 R Streamliner: A Closer Look

One of the most iconic cars from the 1950s, the Mercedes-Benz W196 R Streamliner, made headlines earlier this year when it was auctioned off for a staggering $54 million, making it the second most expensive car ever sold.

Surprisingly, a replica of this legendary race car was recently spotted on the streets of Mexico City. Despite its immense value, someone daring enough decided to take it for a spin on public roads.

Originally, Mercedes had produced 4 examples of the W196 R for racing purposes. The record-breaking car, chassis no. 00009/54, was driven by the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio and Sir Stirling Moss.

The distinctive feature of the W196 R is its streamlined body, specifically designed for aerodynamic efficiency. Sporting a single seat, a small windscreen, a wooden steering wheel, and a rear roll hoop, this speedster exudes class and performance.

Beneath its elongated hood lies a powerful 2.5-litre straight-eight M196 engine, generating 290 hp. Equipped with dry sump lubrication and fuel injection, this engine was a marvel of engineering during its time.

It’s no wonder that the W196 R remains a coveted piece of automotive history, with enthusiasts and collectors alike marveling at its design and performance capabilities.

Source: @aless_spotter