Gottlieb Daimler strove for “the best or nothing”. This philosophy has been the driving force behind everything we have done since. Resulting in decades of striking design and precision engineering.
In 1934 the Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster was launched. With its long bonnet and flowing lines, it was and still is widely regarded as one of the finest looking vehicles ever made. Beneath its exterior it boasted the very best those times had to offer: a supercharged 5,000 cc straight eight engine, independent suspension and hydraulic brakes. Only 29 left the plant, making it the ultimate in exclusivity and even today, well-maintained examples are deemed valuable works of art.
Another motoring icon became available in 1954 – the 300 SL “Gullwing”. On its release it was one of the most innovative sports cars in the world and had already gained legendary status following a one-two finish at Le Mans in 1952. As a result, everyone from Pablo Picasso to Sophia Loren wanted one. Nobody could resist this 155 mph super sports car with its breathtaking gullwing doors. You can discover the attraction for yourself by viewing the 300 SL at Mercedes-Benz World in Weybridge, Surrey.
Power and style aren’t the only innovations Mercedes-Benz has introduced over the years. The 1978 S-Class has set new standards in luxury, comfort and safety. It was the first car in the world to feature ABS. The airbag and ESP® followed – and these Mercedes-Benz innovations are now used by almost every car manufacturer. Today, the WhatCar? Best Luxury Car award-winning S-Class continues to raise the bar and set a new benchmark for others to follow.
