In the annals of automotive history, few cars hold the same level of significance as the 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer. This iconic machine, a testament to the engineering prowess of the German automaker, is set to captivate the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike as it goes under the hammer at the RM Sotheby's Munich sale on November 23.

Unleashing the Power of Automotive Legends

A Glimpse into the Past

The 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer was the embodiment of automotive excellence in its era, much like Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 car is today. Piloted by the automaker's chief engineer and lead driver, Max Sailer, and his young nephew Karl, this remarkable machine finished eighth overall in the iconic Indianapolis 500 race, outperforming all other European challengers. The car's impressive performance and enduring legacy have cemented its place in the annals of motorsport history.

A Rare Gem in the Automotive World

The opportunity to acquire one of the original Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racers is a rare and coveted chance for collectors. With only a handful of these cars known to have survived, the No. 15 car being offered through RM Sotheby's is a true gem. Boasting its original engine, gearbox, and bare-aluminum body, this car is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined Mercedes-Benz's engineering prowess during the era.

Provenance and Pedigree

The car's provenance is equally impressive, with a rich history that can be traced back to the 1923 Indianapolis 500 race. After its successful outing at the Brickyard, the car was sold to a New Jersey race-team owner, E.J. Schroder, in 1934, before passing through the hands of several notable enthusiasts, including famed midget-car racer Mike Caruso and the Long Island Automotive Museum's Henry Austin Clark Jr. The car's ownership history is further enhanced by its time in the collection of Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone, who acquired it from a Japanese collector in the 1990s.

A Masterpiece of Engineering

The 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer is not just a piece of automotive history; it is a testament to the engineering prowess of the legendary Paul Daimler, the son of company founder Gottlieb Daimler. Daimler's design genius is evident in every aspect of the car, from its powerful 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine to its meticulously crafted gearbox and body. The car's supercharged performance and cutting-edge technology were the hallmarks of Mercedes-Benz's engineering excellence during the era, making it a true masterpiece of its time.

A Collector's Dream

For collectors and enthusiasts, the opportunity to acquire the 1923 Mercedes-Benz Type 122 Indianapolis Racer is a once-in-a-lifetime event. The car's rarity, provenance, and engineering pedigree make it a highly sought-after asset in the world of vintage and classic car collecting. With RM Sotheby's estimating the car's value between €3.8 million and €5 million ($4.07 million to $5.35 million), this iconic racer is poised to captivate the attention of the most discerning collectors and enthusiasts, solidifying its status as a true automotive legend.