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Record price

15 July 2022

Poor policy

I love classic cars but, I’m afraid, some of them are getting way beyond my reach. Here’s a case in point.

Recently, Mercedes-Benz in Germany set a new price record of $A204 million for a 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, one of only two cars built.

This massively moves the bar from the previous record of ‘only’ $70 million paid for a Ferrari 250 GTO.

But what’s really interesting about this ‘racing car for the road’ is that it’s 66 years old and has had only one owner – Mercedes-Benz.

Now, if this car lived in Victoria, having never changed hands, it’s possible the Uhlenhaut Coupe would never have had a roadworthy inspection post its original sale in 1956.

I don’t have a problem with people owning and enjoying older cars, but this highlights a ridiculous piece of legislation currently enacted in Victoria that adds to the cost of all new vehicles.

When manufacturers build vehicles for sale in Australia, they’re required to meet Australian Design Rules and be certified for road use. However, when that vehicle is sold in Victoria it must be submitted for a roadworthy inspection, even if it has travelled zero kilometres. That’s ludicrous.

On the other hand, a vehicle that has been in one individual’s ownership for decades may fly under the radar. It’s strange the Victorian State Government allows this anomaly to occur.

New vehicles shouldn’t require a roadworthy, but I reckon a roadworthy inspection on all vehicles over eight years of age, or that have driven more than 160,000km, is a good idea.

What do you think?

Words: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym.

Share your thoughts! E: ceo@vacc.com.au.  As featured in the Herald Sun Friday 15 July 2022.

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