The 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer: A Vintage Marvel on Auction!
Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
Folks, hold onto your bowler hats and monocles because we’re about to dive headfirst into the world of vintage racing cars – specifically, the stunning 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer. Currently making waves at RM Sotheby’s, this beauty will be on the auction block on November 23rd, 2024. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a piece of racing history, get ready to empty your piggy bank, because they expect this classic to fetch over $5.3 million!
Racing Legacy: The Car’s Origins
Now, let’s take a scenic route through its glorious past. This particular model was piloted by none other than Max Sailer – the kind of name that makes you wonder if he rode around in a top hat and cape. Alongside his nephew, young Karl, they managed to finish eighth overall at the legendary *1923 Indy 500*. Not too shabby for a family outing, eh?
Retrocool Technology
This wonder on wheels retains its original 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and gearbox. That’s right; what you’re looking at here is more than just a beautiful exterior. It’s a mechanically intact marvel that puts modern car manufacturers to shame! Imagine explaining to your friends that your car still runs on a century-old engine. Talk about commitment!
Stunning Visuals
Not Just Any Old Owner
Let’s talk about the VIPs who have owned this stunning machine. At one point, it was the pride and joy of none other than *Bernie Ecclestone*, the former head honcho of *Formula 1*. How many people can claim to drive a car that was once in the same garage as the bosses of the world’s most glamorous racing league?
Provenance and Heritage
What adds further gravitas is that the Type 122’s design genius comes from none other than Paul Daimler, who was like the Picasso of car design—if Picasso had a penchant for speed! This car is one of only two original-specification Type 122 Indianapolis Racers that have survived the test of time, proving that some things just get better with age (unlike your uncle Dave).
The Auction: What to Expect
As the gavel prepares to come down this November, one can only imagine the bidding war that will ensue. With a rumored opening bid of around **$5 million**, I suggest bring your best poker face and have a stiff drink handy. Just remember, it’s not just about owning a car; it’s about owning a slice of automotive history.
In conclusion, if you’re a lover of classics, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this auction is one not to miss. It’s not just about the speed; it’s about the stories and the people behind the wheel. Let’s hope one lucky bidder soon finds themselves in the driver’s seat of this spectacular relic.
Published on November 11, 2024
Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
The 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer is being offered through RM Sotheby’s on November 23. This remarkable vehicle has a storied racing history and stands as a testament to the golden age of motorsport.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
Piloted by the automaker’s chief engineer and lead driver, Max Sailer, and his young nephew Karl, this iconic No. 15 finished in a respectable eighth place overall at the prestigious 1923 Indy 500.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
The car retains its original 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to the original gearbox, showcasing its authentic engineering heritage and design integrity.
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Image Credit: Courtesy of owner
A period photo captures Karl Sailer behind the wheel of the 1923 Indy racer now coming to auction, giving a glimpse into its historic racing legacy.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
This historic car has been owned by notable figures, including the former head of Formula 1, Bernie Ecclestone, enhancing its pedigree and allure.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
The Type 122 Indianapolis Racer was designed by Paul Daimler, the son of the founding father, Gottlieb Daimler, lending an impressive legacy to this classic vehicle.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
This is one of only two original-specification Type 122 Indianapolis Racer examples known to have survived, making it an extremely rare find for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
In 1996, Dieter Aumann, a German construction entrepreneur, purchased the car from former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, investing approximately $2.1 million at that time.
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Image Credit: Remi Dargegen, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
The car carries a high-end estimate of more than $5.3 million, significantly underscoring its historical value and appeal to collectors and automotive historians alike.
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