RM Sotheby’s, in collaboration with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, is thrilled to announce an exceptional auction featuring some of the world’s most coveted and historically significant cars. This sale will support the Museum’s long-term financial sustainability and enhance the care of its Indianapolis 500 and Indianapolis Motor Speedway artifacts.
The auction, taking place in October 2024, will feature a selection of legendary vehicles, including:
- 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Streamliner ‘Monza’: Driven by icons Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, this streamlined beauty is estimated at $50,000,000 – $70,000,000 USD. Donated to the IMS Museum in 1965, it holds a special place in racing history.
- 1964 Ferrari 250 LM: This Le Mans-winning car boasts a storied racing career and a unique place in Ferrari history. Acquired by the IMS Museum in 1972, it has competed in multiple endurance races and is a showstopper.
- 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II: This car’s Le Mans pedigree includes a significant finish and original period livery, making it a standout in the GT40 legacy.
- 1957 Chevrolet Corvette SS Project XP64: Chevrolet’s first purpose-built race car, showcasing groundbreaking design and rare magnesium construction. Donated to the IMS Museum in the late 1960s, it remains a significant piece of racing history.
- 1908 Mercedes Brookland-Semmering Rennwagen: A remarkable early racing car with a record-setting history, this vehicle embodies the pinnacle of early Grand Prix design.
- 1991 Benetton B191 Formula 1 Car: Driven by the young Michael Schumacher, this car marks the start of a legendary F1 career and has historic significance in the sport.
- 1907 Itala: Known for its Grand Prix success, this early racing car represents Italian engineering excellence.
- 1928 Bugatti Type 35B Grand Prix: A legendary racer with a storied past, it highlights the Bugatti legacy in early motorsport.
- 1911 Laurin & Klement Racer: An extraordinary example of early aerodynamics, showcasing high originality and historical value.
- The Spirit of America: Craig Breedlove’s land speed record car, known for breaking the sound barrier and setting records in the world of speed.
- 1911 Mercedes 22/40 “Colonial Car” Touring: A rare survivor of early chain drive touring cars, exemplifying engineering innovation of its era.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is undergoing a transformation to enhance visitor experiences with interactive exhibits and advanced technologies. The proceeds from this auction will bolster the Museum’s endowment, ensuring its future and supporting the preservation and display of its invaluable collection.
“Our Stories Behind the Spectacle capital campaign is revolutionizing the IMS Museum, and the sale of these remarkable cars will significantly contribute to our mission,” said Joe Hale, President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.
Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions at RM Sotheby’s, added, “Partnering with the IMS Museum to offer these iconic cars is truly special. From the Moss/Fangio-raced W196 to the Ferrari 250 LM, these cars are unparalleled in significance and will contribute to an important cause.”
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of automotive history and support a cherished institution.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
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