Mercedes is a brand known for high-end quality, engineering, and luxury. The German automaker offers vehicles for every price range, from the affordable A-Class to the super-expensive S-Class. However, even the lowest-priced Mercedes models have higher maintenance costs than most other brands. The entry-level C-Class, for example, is twice as expensive to maintain as a Honda Civic, according to repair cost comparison site RepairPal.
The ultra-rare Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is one of only two created in 1955 and is regarded as one of the most prized cars in history. It’s valued at $143 million and is expected to become the world’s most expensive car ever sold, according to RM Sotheby’s. The car’s value stems from its history and rarity. It was built by Mercedes’ race department and named after the company’s head of racing, Rudolf Uhlenhaut. The car never competed in a race, as it was created shortly before the fatal crash at the Le Mans endurance race that killed 83 spectators and racing driver Pierre Bouillin in 1956.
Despite the low price, the car’s buyer is expected to spend lavishly on its upkeep and make it a centerpiece of his collection. He’ll likely show it at shows and events to impress visitors. And he’ll likely use it as a showpiece to attract potential business partners and clients.
Mercedes-Benz sales in the US have been sluggish lately and the brand needs to continue improving its position if it wants to reclaim top spot from BMW. Last year, the German automaker spent $1 billion revamping its aging flagship S-Class into an all-new paradigm of performance, luxury, and technology. It’s also stepped up its game in the electric and hybrid market with the all-new E-Class and S600, as well as an ultra-luxury sedan called the Pullman that has armor plating and bulletproof windows.
As Mercedes continues to push into new markets, it’ll need to ensure that its reputation for quality and safety remains intact. And the company is facing an even greater challenge from lower-priced electric vehicles from China, as well as price cuts from Tesla. The Financial Times Lex columnist writes that Mercedes’s resilience is going to be tested like never before. The company must accelerate its electrification efforts or risk losing out to its competitors. mercedes for sale