Tag Archives: Mercedes-Benz

News

Mercedes SL celebrates its 60th birthday

In 1963, Mercedes unveiled its new sports car, the 230 SL, with a chassis based on the W 111 sedan platform but with a 30 cm (11.8 in) shorter wheelbase. It was produced until 1971, in several series, and less than 50k cars left the production lines. Now this significant car in Mercedes history is celebrating its 60th birthday.

Ever since it appeared on the market, the Mercedes 230 SL has been considered one of the most important models in the history of the German manufacturer. In addition, it represented a turning point for Mercedes when it comes to safety. The bonnet, boot lid, door skins and tonneau cover were made of aluminum to reduce weight.

The 230 SL was designed by Friedrich Geiger and was characterized by the clean lines of the classic SL look and the large central star in the radiator grille. An option was a hardtop designed by Paul Barq, which gave it the nickname “Pagoda”. Thanks to the outstanding suspension, powerful brakes and radial tires, the 230 SL had superb handling for its time.

Over time, it was produced in several versions (230 SL, 250 SL, 280 SL), of which the most successful version of the W113 series was the 280 SL, which premiered in 1968. It was powered by a 2.8L 6-cylinder M130 engine with 168 hp (125 kW) and 180 lb-ft (244 Nm) of torque. It reached 62 mph (100 km/h) in 9 seconds with a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).

This sports car also achieved notable results in races, one of which is the victory at the 5,000+ km Spa-Sofia-Liege in 1963. A year later they were third.

Gallery:

Mercedes SL celebrates its 60th birthday

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Auctions, News

1991 Mercedes-Benz 6.0 Widebody Coupe is up for auction

Among the number of cars appearing at auction recently, the 1991 Mercedes-Benz 6.0 Widebody Coupe is a real gem. It’s a rare car based on the Mercedes-Benz W124 Coupe that has been turned into a unique car by AMG experts.

The car is finished in Nautical metallic blue, and it is decorated with a set of 17-inch OZ Racing wheels. The interior is upholstered in blue leather and numerous changes have been made, from the installation of Recaro seats, wood details, the AMG gear lever to the glove box. There is also a smaller AMG four-spoke steering wheel in front of the white AMG dashboard.

Under the hood is a new 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine with 375 hp (276 kW). The rear suspension was reengineered to reduce squatting and chassis flex when under acceleration. A Torsen limited-slip differential was installed, and body modifications were made to include extended wheel arches.

The car has only 36,701 km (22,805 miles) on the odometer. It is one of only a few examples with an AMG serial number. The car spent most of its time in Japan, but in 2022 it was imported to the USA. Estimated value is $750,000 – $850,000 USD.

Gallery:

1991 Mercedes-Benz 6.0 Widebody Coupe is up for auction

Source: Broad Arrow Auctions

EV, News

Mercedes is building a charging station network in North America

The increased demand for electric cars necessarily requires an increase in the number of charging stations. Thus, Mercedes-Benz decided to start building a network of stations in North America, and the goal is to establish a complete network before the end of the decade.

Mercedes’ long-term plan is to go all-electric, and it’s currently trying to make that happen in North America. The company believes that this strategic move will significantly improve the usability and practicality of the new generation of electric vehicles, differentiate the Mercedes-Benz ownership experience and accelerate the transformation of electric vehicles.

Creating a network of stations will improve the customer charging experience, accelerate the journey towards an all-electric future and create a global infrastructure asset with future potential for value creation. Mercedes-Benz charging hubs will be located in key cities and urban centers of population, close to major arteries, convenient retail and service destinations.

Depending on the region and location, the hubs will offer 4 to 12, and eventually even 30 high power chargers (HPC) with up to 350 kW of charging power. Intelligent charging management will allow each vehicle to charge at its maximum capacity, which will keep waiting times to an absolute minimum.

Although the focus of this decision is on owners of Mercedes vehicles, this network will also be open to drivers of all other brands with compatible technology. This comprehensive initiative, with ongoing support from collaborative networks such as IONITY, also aims to drive the global adoption of electric mobility.

The total investment will be around 1 billion euros, and the plan is to realize it in the next seven years.

Source: Mercedes-Benz