Mercedes Owner magazine August 2018

Issue 324 | August 2018 | £3.50

www.mercedesclub.org.uk

issue 245 | January 2012 | £3.50

www.mercedesclub.org.uk

Mercedes-Benz Owners…

MBO TRIP Normandy

…for all things Mercedes

LEGEND RUDOLPH

THE SMART 25 years

your

Mercedes... ...the right upgrade the right way

Comand.co.uk supply and fit Mercedes telematics upgrades including... · Comand navigation · DAB radio · iPod · Media interface · Reversing camera · Phone systems · TV · Heated seats · Intelligent lighting system · Speed limit assist · Lane assist · Rear entertainment · Full facelifted lighting systems · Parktronic · Conversion from Japan/US spec to UK/Europe ...and much more Working with many main dealers, you can be confident of competitively priced, properly designed and fully integrated upgrades that enhance your vehicle. We use genuine Mercedes parts and genuine supported Xentry diagnosis systems to ensure you get the highest quality solution.

Contact us via email at sales@comand.co.uk, phone on 01276 474900, or via our website www.comand.co.uk to discuss what we can update and upgrade on your vehicle.

01276 474900 sales@comand.co.uk

Contents » 3

mercedesclub.org.uk

04

Newsline

08

The Big Picture

11

Events

12

AMG Racetrack

15 EQC 17

Daimler AG at RISE Conference

20

MBO Trip to Normandy

24 The most successful model series

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ˆ

25 years

Rudolph Uhlenhaut

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29

Mercedes-Benz embarked 25 years ago

33

Silchester Garage

35

Leather Care

37

CLS Coupe

38

Southampton Boat Show

42

The Legend of Rudolph Uhlenhaut

44

Specialist Directory

46

Classifieds

50

25 years of Smart

EQC

Follow us on › @MercedesOwners › Mercedes Owners › Mercedes-Benz Owners › mercedesbenzowners

ˆ

Most Successful model

ˆ

The Smart

Front cover: The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class family.

MBO members receive this magazine as part of their membership.

To join the MBO please call 01892 710570 Copy date 1st of each month, classified copy date 10th of each month.

While every effort is made in compiling Mercedes Owner, the publishers cannot be responsible for errors or omissions.

Although every care is taken to vet advertising in Mercedes Owner, no guarantees can be given and no assumption of approval of such adverts should be made. ©2018 Mercedes-Benz Owners Ltd.

MMercedes-Benz Owners Ltd Mercedes House, 32 Hornbeam Avenue, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9XT Tel: 01892 710570 Email: info@mercedesclub.org.uk Website: www.mercedesclub.org.uk Advertisement sales: Mark Sykes, Mercedes Owner Magazine Tel: 01892 710508 - Mob: 07563 559136 Email: mark.sykes@mercedesclub.org.uk - Website: www.mercedesclub.org.uk

Print and distribution: Lakeside Printing Tel: 01732 358815 - Website: www.lakesideprinting.co.uk Design and artwork: Jack Walker Graphic Design Email: jackwalkergraphicdesign@gmail.com Tel: 07896 107910 Designer: Jack Walker Editor: info@mercedesclub.org.uk MBO membership: Tel: 01892 710570

4 » Newsline

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Newsline A round-up of the latest Mercedes-Benz news mercedesclub.org.uk

BILSTEIN B4 air spring module for Mercedes-Benz C Class W205/S205 Mercedes and BILSTEIN are tied by a history of collaboration in original equipment that spans more than 60 years. But the two companies have worked together also in the field of air suspension. While this type of suspension used to be initially reserved for high-end vehicle classes, it did find its way into the C class with the W205/S205 series. Thanks to this, the fourth generation of models offers astounding long-distance qualities. The first cars have been on the road for more than four years, which is tantamount to six-digit mileages especially when it comes to heavy-duty company cars. This means that, just like with conventional shock absorbers, there is an increased need for wear-and-tear repairs.

With the BILSTEIN B4 air suspension modules designed to meet all original equipment standards, BILSTEIN gives workshops exactly the spare parts that they need.

Guaranteeing a showroom-fresh driving experience, BILSTEIN B4 air suspension modules are in a positively different quality class than reworked old parts, which are frequently sold as "remanufactured". While such parts may be perceived by customers as being less expensive, the sum of their properties can have a lot of downsides. That's because they often use a new air spring but not a new shock absorber or electromagnetic control valve, which is just a recipe for trouble.

To test this theory, BILSTEIN’s own engineers bought a part on the internet and put it to the test. Aside from some wear parts which had been replaced unprofessionally, the air spring module housed a shock absorber more than a decade old. That might come as quite a nasty surprise, if you’re the unlucky owner…

All the more reason to opt for a brand new BILSTEIN B4 air spring module, in other words, a product that does not compromise on the comfort, safety, and durability. Add to this the fact that all standard suspension features are preserved after the replacement—which is something not half the products offered by the competition can claim. Passivity instead of activity? Clearly not an option for BILSTEIN. Price £840 plus VAT RRP www.bilstein.com.

NEW MercedesAMG models..

The new Mercedes-AMG models CLS 53 4MATIC+, E 53 4MATIC+ Coupé and E 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet can now be ordered. The centrepiece is the new electrified 3.0 litre engine with twin charging, 320 kW (435 hp) output and an EQ Boost starter generator. The visual identifiers include the twinblade radiator grille and the restyled rear apron with its classically round twin tailpipe trims. The newcomers will be at the dealers from August.

The 53-series models combine a powerful 320 kW (435 hp) output with a sporty style and high efficiency. The EQ Boost starter generator briefly provides an additional 16 kW of output plus 250 Nm of torque and feeds the 48 V on-board electrical system. It unites the starter and alternator in one electric motor and is integrated between the engine and transmission.

This innovation as well as the intelligent charging via an electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger all have the same goal: to enhance the hallmark AMG performance and driving dynamics, while at the same time reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The extremely fast-shifting AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and the autonomous AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension also help to create the dynamic driving experience. The 48 V on-board electrical system is therefore paving the way for further hybridisation. The functions include boost, recuperate, load point shift, gliding and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.

Twin-blade radiator grille and round twin tailpipe trim elements Visually, the new 53-series models have a distinctive unique look. The distinctive feature common to the models is the twin-blade radiator grille in silver chrome. AMG-specific side sill panels lend the 53-series models a more dynamic silhouette. Viewed from the tail end, it is the restyled rear apron with its classically round twin tailpipe trims which catches the eye.

The spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the body colour, but is optionally also available in carbon-fibre.

The interior of the new AMG models welcomes passengers with modelspecific, exclusive appointments, luxurious materials and significantly extended options. With the optional, fully digital Widescreen Cockpit the driver can select the display look in the three styles "Classic", "Sport" and "Progressive" and configure the individually relevant information and views.

The interior is rounded off with the new, standard-fit AMG performance steering wheel in Nappa leather with individualisation options such as wood inserts in piano lacquer or DINAMICA microfibre in the grip area.

Exclusive Edition 1 for the Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ From the time of market launch, the exclusive Edition 1 will be available for the CLS 53 4MATIC+ which boasts the COPPER ART interior design.

The seat covers in black Nappa leather have also been refined with copper-coloured contrasting topstitching, as have the instrument panel, armrests, centre console, door panels and piping on the floor mats. The trim elements and the centre console in carbon fibre with COPPER ART copper stitching plus the AMG performance steering wheel with Edition lettering also underscore the vehicle's exceptional position. The luxurious character is reinforced by the ambient lighting with 64 colours, the Memory and Mirror Package plus the exclusive IWC analogue clock.

Newsline » 5

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Thanks to Gtechniq, we are again pleased to offer you the chance to win a series of products from the Gtechniq range ideally suited for our Interior trimming feature on page 35.

To enter, simply answer the following question: In this month’s issue, members of the MBO Forum were featured on a trip abroad, but where did they go.

Answer A: Helsinki Answer B: Madrid Answer C: Normandy Send an email to info@mercedesclub.org.uk with the correct answer to the following question before 31st July 2018. Good luck!

Freedom to choose your own repairer, but not every insurer plays ball.

What to look out for…

Nick Day of the club’s preferred insurance provider, MBO Insurance, provides some insider info…

If you’ve regularly used a particular Mercedes-Benz dealership or perhaps even had work done on your car by an independent local garage, chances are you’ve established a good relationship. So it makes sense that you might want to use their bodyshop, if the worst does happen, for any accident repairs.

However, there’s a difference between Insurer Approved repairers, Mercedes-Benz Approved repairers and then non-approved repairers.

New Mercedes-Benz Bike.

Mercedes-Benz announces collaboration with the Canadian high-end bike manufacturer, Argon 18, on high-performance endurance bikes. Both companies share the claim as leaders in innovative technology and unique user-experience. The new partnership is planned over multiple years. Being discussed are products that reflect even more the design philosophy of Mercedes-Benz and the expertise of Argon 18 in the field of advanced technologies.

The first bike model will be launched towards the end of 2018 as a road endurance bike. Mercedes-Benz style is responsible for its exclusive appearance with silver-coloured frame and silver-black gradient on saddle and struts. The fork has a special shape, optimized for vibration absorption and control.

“The bike blends perfectly with our design philosophy of Sensual Purity.

This expresses itself in the bipolarity of emotion and intelligence. The carbon frame in conjunction with the typical Mercedes-Benz colour scheme, provides dynamics even while standing still, thus ensuring an emotional connection. Perfectly integrated technical components and fascinating functions represent the high competence of our new partner.”

Martin Bremer, Senior Manager, Design Creation Brand Experience.

The new Mercedes-Benz Style Endurance Bike is available in two component options— the Ultegra Di2 featuring electronic shifting with FSA Trimax 40 Carbon wheels and the Ultegra group with Trimax 30 wheels.

The Ultegra Di2 features an integrated rechargeable battery with chargelevel indicator. Each variant can be ordered in six different sizes for an individualized fit. High tech hydraulic brakes come as standard equipment on both option models.

Your insurer will have built up its own network of approved repairers and will encourage you to use one of those. They won’t necessarily be Mercedes-Benz Approved bodyshops. In fact, they’re unlikely to be.

And maybe that doesn’t matter but it might cause you concern if you’re choosy about who works on your car or if you have a preferred garage in mind.

Some insurers have restrictions in place to make sure you use their repairer – even doubling the excess or removing the courtesy car option if you go elsewhere.

It’s actually your legal right to have your car repaired wherever you wish though sadly it’s not always that simple to negotiate, especially where commercial terms dictate.

You’ll want to check your policy wording to see what it says about this and also whether the repairer will use genuine Mercedes parts.

The good news for this club’s members is that MBO Insurance doesn’t operate like that. We and our insurer partners recognise that you’re likely to have a trusted repairer already waiting in the wings. Even if you don’t, you may still want to choose a Mercedes approved one. That’s why you have the ability to suggest your own repairer and request that only 100% genuine parts are used instead of pattern or recycled parts.

And, when you go through a broker like us you have someone standing between you and the insurer who can fight your corner and make sure you get what you need.

To request an MBO Insurance quote please call the team on 0800 028 6463.

THE No.1 SPECIALISTS

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Newsline A round-up of the latest Mercedes-Benz news mercedesclub.org.uk

THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS

All parts available for Mercedes Cars & Commercial vehicles with warranty

0333 240 1020 (charged at local rate)

• Next day delivery • Fully equipped workshop with MB trained technicians • Genuine Mercedes diagnostic computer • Dronsfield will beat any genuine quote • National Collection Service • Friendly Staff • Cars & spares purchased

Roger Federer, the winner of the 40th Mercedes Cup. New Pioneer release: New system with motorised screen & key entertainment functions

The 40th Mercedes Cup took place in June 2018, on the grounds of Stuttgart TC Weissenhof. Spectators were thrilled to see a high-calibre line up of participants headed by the record Grand Slam winner and MercedesBenz brand ambassador Roger Federer who won the tournament and presented with a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC Coupé.

"I always look forward to the grass court season. I really enjoy playing in Stuttgart. The club's facilities are intimate and warm and the spectators are always fantastic. As a Mercedes-Benz brand ambassador, the tournament is extra fun as Mercedes-Benz is such an integral part of the week," says the eight-times Wimbledon champion.

Pioneer remains committed to those car owners running single DINs, and evidence of this can be found in its latest AVH product release, the mighty AVH-Z7100DAB, complete with a motorised multimedia player (with a 7in screen) and a host of features, functions and connectivity options.

The AVH-Z7100DAB has a fully motorised screen, one which folds out from the single DIN dash in a manner that can’t help but draw admiring glances! This enables those owners of single DIN vehicles to have access to just as much aftermarket audio tech as those with double DINs. The unit also makes full use of another Pioneer engineering strong suit, screen technology. The AVH-Z7100DAB's 7in clear type resistive touchscreen delivers stunning, pin-sharp clear picture quality at all types and makes navigating the various sub-menus and intuitive Graphic User Interfaces (GUI) a breeze.

Easy smartphone connectivity via a simple USB cable supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB/DAB+ Digital Radio, Waze (Via Android Auto or AppRadio Mode +), Bluetooth and a 13-band GEQ The AVH-Z7100DAB's Bluetooth receiver connects simply and swiftly with both Apple and Android devices, while the technology itself enables safe communication while on the move thanks to hands-free calling and automatic phonebook transfer, and of course music streaming while on the move. Price: SRP £629.00 https://www.pioneer-car.eu/uk/products/AVH-Z7100DAB

Seeking 190SL From time to time, the MBO office receive enquiries to seek out once owned Mercedes, with little to go on. With data protection, GDPR and the DVLA restrictions, it can often be difficult. However, with the many subscribers we have, we can try and help. This seeking Mercedes enquiry is slightly different, as the enquiry came from a family friend of the former keeper, who is now in his 80’s who owned the beautiful 190SL (as shown in the photograph) from 1954 till the late 70’s. The previous owner has the log book from 1959-1960, believed to be first registered to a Mercedes dealer where they presumed it was used as a demonstrator. If you have any information, please contact the MBO office as shown on the contents page.

8 Âť Newsline

Newsline A round-up of the latest Mercedes-Benz news mercedesclub.org.uk

GT Series Sprint Cup Race Mercedes-AMG Motorsport also finishes on the podium in the third Blancpain GT Series Sprint Cup race: Raffaele Marciello (ITA) and Michael Meadows (GBR) drive their Mercedes-AMG GT3 with starting number 88, run by AKKA ASP, to second place in the first race. Driving the sister car with starting number 90, Nico Bastian (GER) and Jack Manchester (GBR) secure the Silver Cup class win. Nicolas Jamin (FRA) and Denis Bulatov (RUS), also AKKA ASP, finish fifth in the race on Sunday and thus secure another Silver Cup win for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport.

mercedesclub.org.uk

Newsline » 9

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THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS

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THE BIG PICTURE

10 » Events

Newsline

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Sponsored By THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS

All parts available for Mercedes Cars & Commercial vehicles with warranty

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A round-up of the latest Mercedes-Benz news mercedesclub.org.uk

(charged at local rate)

• Next day delivery • Fully equipped workshop with MB trained technicians • Genuine Mercedes diagnostic computer • Dronsfield will beat any genuine quote • National Collection Service • Friendly Staff • Cars & spares purchased

A Family-Run Company Specialising in the Restoration of Classic Mercedes-Benz Vehicles.

WE DO TOP-QUALITY WORK AT NORTHERN IRELAND LABOUR RATES - UP TO 50% LOWER THAN IN MANLAND BRITAIN.

Universal-MotorGerät Club.

There are many stories surrounding the "Universal-Motor-Gerät" (universally applicable motorised machine) –worldwide known as Unimog - from Mercedes-Benz. From helping to fight forest fires in the South of France, as an expedition vehicle in the vast expanses of the Gobi desert or as a reliable service provider for local authorities. There is hardly another commercial vehicle that is as popular as the Unimog and there is no other vehicle that appears in so many different guises. The Unimog-Club Gaggenau e.V. (UCG), which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, shows just how much enthusiasm surrounds this 70 years-old vehicle concept.

Martin Daum, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Daimler Trucks & Buses and patron of the celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of the Unimog-Club Gaggenau e.V., emphasises: "We are honoured that so many people have been comitted to the UnimogClub Gaggenau e.V. for a quarter of a century. That so many people are linked through the fascination surrounding the Unimog – and that they are continuing to pass on this fascination."

The Unimog-Club was founded in 1993 around the idea of sharing the fascination with this outstanding automobile in a community. The founding Chairman and initiator of the group, the former Head of Communication at the Mercedes-Benz Gaggenau plant, Michael Wessel, initially had in mind to create a regional club for members within 25 kilometres of Gaggenau, but soon the club life was accessible for everyone. Because from early on the there was a high interest shared by many Unimog enthusiasts across national borders to join the association from Gaggenau.

All cars collected and delivered anywhere in Ireland & Mainland U.K. WE OFFER: Computer Engine Tuning Engine Rebuilds ETC Low-Bake Oven Facility Trim Department n n n n

References from Mainland Customers as to Quality of work available on request.

T & D HEANEY MOTOR COMPANY, Swatragh, Maghera, Co Derry, Northern Ireland.

Tel: 02879 401 660 (Day) 02879 401 626 (Evening) e-mail: info@mercedesrestoration.com internet: www.mercedesrestoration.com

Events » 11

mercedesclub.org.uk

Events Please send your show pictures of cars and owners with brief details for publication to: info@mercedesclub.org.uk August 1 Classics on the Green at Rickmansworth WD3 August 2 Rockingham Summer Social Evening Meets, NN17 August 4 Beaulieu Super Car Weekend, Beaulieu Motor Museum, SO42 August 5 The Festival of clasic and Sports cars at Helmingham Hall, IP14 August 6 Dub Vacation, IP14 August 10 VW T Chill, New Forest, SO42 August 11 – 12 Supercar Sessions at Jeans, TN4

August 18 Redline Rumble,Santa Pod, NN29 August 18 Biggin Hill Festival of Flight, TN16 August 19 Festival Italia, Brands Hatch, DA38, 8NG August 19 WILTON WAKE UP FAST AND EXOTIC SUPERCARS, SP2 August 24 KNUCKLE BUSTERS AT THE BARNS, IP14 August 24 – 26 26/08/18 DTM Misano, Viale Daijiro Kato, 10, 47843 Misano Adriatico RN

August 25 MINI FESTIVAL, BRANDS HATCH, DA3 August 26 F1 SPA, ROUTE DU CIRCUIT 55, 4970 August 26 IWM Duxford 2018 Summer Car Show, CB22 August 30 Salon Prive Concourse, BLENHEIM PALACE, OX20 August 31 VW ACTION, SANTA POD, NN29 September 02 F1 Monza, Viale di Vedano 5, Autodromo Nazionale Monza, 20900

To view more events in your local area, please visit www.mercedesclub.org.uk/events

HAVE YOUR CLASSIC MERCEDES-BENZ RESTORED OR REPAIRED BY SPECIALISTS

Whatever your requirements, we are one of the most qualified and experienced restorers in the UK to carry out a small repair or a complete restoration on your classic Mercedes.

Silchester Garage Ltd only use genuine parts where possible, however, we carry over £200k of rare used stock parts for your classic Mercedes. We wouldn’t have everything in stock, but depending on your requirements there is a good chance that we have it.

We are also experts in custom-built exhaust systems for classic and modern cars. We are not just about modified and customised cars!

Our comprehensive range of silencers enables us to offer close matches to virtually every silencer ever made. We are therefore able to build efficient and durable stainless steel exhaust systems on most classic, vintage and even veteran cars.

Tel: +44 (0)118 970 1648 Mob: +44 (0)7830 352823

www.silchestergarage.co.uk Due to record sales we want to buy your car or sell it on a commission basis.

We should be able to return you the best market price.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

£129,000

FOR SALE

£33,000

£9,950

1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

1985 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

1991 Mercedes-Benz 300SL

Left-hand drive with very rare manual transmission. Fully restored and ready to go.

Full restoration less than one year ago, including new bulkhead, engine, etc.

Stunning condition inside and out, massive service history.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

£18,950

FOR SALE

£33,000

£79,000

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE LHD

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE

1966 Mercedes-Benz 230SL LHD

Excellent condition, we're carrying out all repairs to make it reliable and looking amazing again.

Completed restored, including new interior, full paint job, and many new parts, etc.

Rare manual trans. Reg’d UK 1966, 230SL Roadster, 22,298 miles. Recent restoration.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

£85,750

FOR SALE

£29,950

£115,000

1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL

1989 Mercedes-Benz 300SL

1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL RHD

In workshop being repaired to high standard, many new parts making it reliable and beautiful.

Beautiful colour combination, stunning condition.

In stunning condition, restored, massive amount of service history, just beautiful.

Silchester Garage has been restoring classic Mercedes-Benz for many years and we are specialists in the SL range, including 190SL, Pagoda and R107.

We have all the tools and skills to work on any other models too.

Located in Berkshire, our specialist facilities include a metal works bay, spray booth, trim shop, workshop, MOT station, tyre bay, parts shop and showroom.

Our in-house ‘mass production’ of restorations means we will never be beaten on price on any like-for-like quotation.

We offer restorations to each customer’s unique requirements and budget, allowing you the option to pay by instalments or just having it done to Concours condition at a reasonable price.

Our passion about these wonderful motor cars and friendly approach to customers makes us one of the biggest and best dealers of ‘Pagodas’ in the UK leaving many satisfied customers nationally and internationally.

Whatever your vehicle, whatever your requirements we will be delighted to provide a quote.

Pamber Road, Silchester, Berkshire RG7 2NX www.silchestergarage.co.uk sales@silchestergarage.co.uk

RAC membership * from just £29 Visit rac.co.uk/uk-join/benefits or call 0333 202 3009^ quoting RCAFGEN-MS50

Testing the EQC » 15

mercedesclub.org.uk

TESTING OF THE NEW MERCEDES-BENZ EQC 2

019 will see the launch of the EQC - the first all-electric Mercedes-Benz model from the new product and technology brand EQ. Between January and March, prototypes of the new model series completed tough winter testing in northern Sweden. The next waystations on the road to series production are more suspension/ powertrain tests as well as integrated completevehicle high-temperature testing in southern Europe. Systematic complete-vehicle validation serves to guarantee our high quality standards and is one of the extensive measures in the development process of every Mercedes-Benz model series. Before going into production, a new vehicle must reach a maturity level specifically defined by Mercedes-Benz.

Testing: a vital precursor to the launch of every vehicle • Totally digital: Digital testing covers all key areas of vehicle development: from simulation and validation of construction feasibility to crash performance, aerodynamics, ride & handling, NVH (noise/vibration/harshness), weight through to consumption and range.

• From computer screen to test bench and onto the road: Despite all the advantages of digital testing in terms of speed, data availability and efficiency – no vehicle goes into series production without extensive real-world testing. The focus here is on the durability of components such as drivetrains on the test

•

•

•

•

• •

•

bench and the functional testing of the entire vehicle under various climatic conditions on the road. In the case of the EQC, of course, special attention is paid to the electric powertrain and the battery. They too are tested and approved in accordance with Mercedes-Benz's extremely strict standards.

Everything a question of proportion: A special role is also played by the acoustics of an electric vehicle, as, unlike in a combustionengine vehicle, there is hardly a sound from the powertrain. This makes sounds such as the rolling of the tyres or wind noise more prominent. To meet these special requirements, we rely on our many years of experience in the area of NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness).

One third/two thirds: With a ratio of 35% to 65% between digital testing and real-world testing, we combine the best of both worlds – in the interests of the customary high quality standards of Mercedes-Benz.

Almost 200: That's how many prototypes and preproduction vehicles are built and tested for this purpose in our workshops.

Several hundred: Before being released for production, the vehicle must be tested and validated by numerous individuals from many different development departments. A total of several hundred experts are involved in testing. From the specialist departments, which approve their components and modules, through to testing/endurance testing of the complete vehicle.

Around four years: All in all, the EQC will have been in development for around four years.

Three winters and three summers: The EQC will be subjected over three winters and three summers to extreme conditions from minus 35° to over plus 50° Celsius.

A true cosmopolitan: Before coming to market in many countries around the world, the EQC will have undergone extensive testing in Germany, Finland, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Dubai, South Africa, the USA and China.

AvAntgArde clAssics

Jonathan aucott

www.avantgardeclassics.co.uk

1HĆ‚EG 01827 288177

/GTEGFGU 5. #/)

2004, 21,000 miles, tanzanite blue, grey leather, very rare.

/GTEGFGU 5.

1987, 57,600 miles, champagne metallic, cream leather.

/GTEGFGU 5.

1989, 64,900 miles, nautic blue, cream leather, A/c.

Email: sales@avantgardeclassics.co.uk

/GTEGFGU 5. 5KNXGT #TTQY 2001, 17,600 miles, 1 of 100 UK rHd.

Mobile: 07968 694448

/GTEGFGU 5. 2CIQFC 1969, 49,500 miles, lovely unrestored example.

/GTEGFGU 5'.

1976, 32,500 miles, thistle green, bamboo velour, lHd.

/GTEGFGU 5 $WUKPGUU 'FKVKQP 1998, 20,200 miles, emerald black, cream leather.

/GTEGFGU 5.

1996, 24,600 miles, emerald black, grey leather.

Viewings: TamworTh sTaffordshire ‡ wanTed: similar high qualiTy classic cars

AvantgardeAd_Merc_180x130mm8cars.indd 1

12/06/2018 18:23

WORRIED ABOUT EXPENSIVE

MERCEDES REPAIR BILLS?

18

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DAIMER AG at RISE Conference » 17

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DAIMER AG AT RISE CONFERENCE D

aimler AG is strongly represented at the RISE Conference, which took place in early July in Hong Kong. As part of the discussion session, Dieter Zetsche explained the cultural differences which are reflected in customers’ varying wishes in Asia, Europe and the USA. He described how artificial intelligence helps suppliers to respond more appropriately to the individual needs of the customer. In a session entitled, “From AI to Green Tea. East-Western lessons for the inventor of the car” Dieter Zetsche took part in a live discussion on stage in front of around 700 journalists and influencers. In all, the conference was attended by 15,000 participants from more than 100 countries.

"We have consciously chosen RISE as an international forum because it offers us an opportunity to engage in dialogue with the tech community, both on-site at the event and in the social networks," says Jörg Howe, Head of Global Communications Daimler AG. In the run-up to the Conference, the company has made use of social media channels to encourage its online community to participate in the dialogue on artificial intelligence. During RISE, Dieter Zetsche will discuss selected questions with conference participants, including Guy Kawasaki. This technology champion and Mercedes-Benz ambassador has a sphere of influence, which extends well beyond the digital scene. Following the RISE Conference, a video of the responses will be published via social media.

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Concept EQA in Hong Kong

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Dieter Zetsche, Chief Executive of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars

18 » DAIMER AG at RISE Conference

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“Of course, we are already testing autonomous cars at our own facilities. We most recently became from a city in California the possibility to participate in a real-life test which is a very big and important step for us.”

During a tour at the RISE conference, Dieter Zetsche also had a meeting with the Silicon Valley icon Guy Kawasaki. "Here at RISE, I meet the most important players in the Asian tech scene and inspiring people from all over the world. There is hardly a more suitable platform for the dialogue between East and West on the most central digital topics of the future", said the MercedesBenz brand ambassador in Hong Kong.

This was the subject of a discussion with Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars at the RISE conference, Asia's most important tech-conference, in Hong Kong.

Artificial intelligence is key future topic for Daimler in all areas of the company. Indeed the inventor of the Automobile already places its confidence in artificial intelligence, for example in the new A-Class: Its multimedia system Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) has a unique learning capability and intuitive operation.

In a live session entitled "From AI to Green Tea. East-West lessons for the inventor of the car", Dieter Zetsche also discussed autonomous driving as part of the mobility of the future in the presence of around 700 international journalists, influencer and conference participants.

More information about the RISE conference can be found at: www.riseconf.com

“We have listened, tried to understand and put in the demands of the customers. A very important example are cars with an extended wheelbase as Chinese customers obviously like to take their families and friends with them. When we came up with added models, we have surprised and exceeded the expectations of our customers."

“Again, good news: we are the first company to receive a license to road test autonomous cars in Beijing. Not one of the easiest challenges, but that’s a good test. We are happy because China is the biggest market for us. And when we go for autonomous driving, we have to make sure that it works in China. Therefore, this testing is extremely precious for us.”

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Dieter Zetsche at RISE 2018 in Hong Kong: Artificial Intelligence and Mobility of the Future

During a tour through Hong Kong and the RISE conference, Dieter Zetsche also had a meeting with the Silicon Valley icon Guy Kawasaki.

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20 » MBO trip to Normandy

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W

e had a loose itinerary focused on the WW2 landing sites, but as usual with these trips, everyone can dip in and out of adventures as they please. As always, the group is completely reliant on the expertise of Nick, who seems to have been everywhere and seen everything and has an incredible knack of being able to plan activities where everyone finds something to enjoy.

Ask Nick what he does for a living however and he is strangely quiet. Personally I suspect he’s James Bond, but that’s another story.

First rendezvous point was the car park at the Channel Tunnel, there’s always a bit of excitement when you pull into the car park and start following the signs ‘to France’. I guess that all car clubs have the same idea as there’s always funky interesting cars in the car park, with a fair amount of appreciative nodding going on…

Once we had added some more cars to the convoy alongside our 124 coupe 300ce24 with Dave and Stu (129 SL500), Jeremy (209 CLK 500), Nickolas (221 S350), Tony and Lyn (212 E-Class), Della and wife (204 C200) Craig and family (211 E320) and Jason and wife (209 CLK), we boarded the train. As there was a whole 30 minutes with nothing to do, the boys started some competitive car polishing with some very fine detail work, approved by a bemused French ticket inspector.

As we pulled out of the train station, it was time for the firststoptolineupthecarsanddosomeseriousadmiring.

It took most of the afternoon for Jeremy to position the flowers to get a suitably artistic shot.

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The gang

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Jeremy's "suitably artistic shot"

MBO trip to Normandy » 21

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A section of Mulberry Harbour

On our last trip, we had a few challenges with communicating between the cars and repeatedly lost each other and generally missed oh so important toilet stops. This time we decided to invest in some walkie talkies to make this process a bit easier. You know what they say about boys and their toys, but we wasted several hours over the weekend insulting each other’s rear ends, driving prowess etc. via the walkie talkies and generally fighting to establish who would be ‘Clarkson’…

The drive to Bayeux seemed to take an impossibly long time, around six hours with some annoying traffic jams right at the very end testing our patience somewhat.

Nick had warned us that we would be heading over the world’s craziest bridge and he really wasn’t wrong, as we drove towards it, it looked like something that had been designed by the Mr Men. Cue more excitement on the walkie talkies and yet more artistic photography.

We arrived at the hotel, the itinerary (that only a boy would create) allowing a full five minutes to get ready to hit the town. Thirsty and lined up at the bar, we were delighted to be told that ‘we don’t serve alcohol here’. Luckily, the beautiful old town of Bayeux was a quick stroll away, and we spent

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Bunker at Omaha Beach

the evening in a fabulous Irish pub (something a bit wrong with the Geography here) but they served beer and chips so we were happy. Several happy hours later, the boys were clearly “tired from their drive” and needed to be steered home with a firm hand.

We got back to the hotel to find the Mercs were ominously surrounded by some serious American muscle cars getting ready for their own road trip.

Next morning, we set off for Grandcamp Maisy, with no idea what to expect. We were met by a fantastically friendly dog and young British guy who said “what do you want to know, I can talk all day about this”.

He recounted an incredible story about his family’s mission to expose a hidden German battery that had been ‘buried’ after the war with all records destroyed.

They have devoted years to buying strips of land, digging and finding incredible artefacts. We wandered around the camp, following trenches and just being amazed that all of this was hidden in innocent looking fields just waiting for someone to care enough to find it.

Next day with another early start, we decided to do all key Normandy landing sites. Again, we didn’t know what to expect at Omaha beach, but there’s

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CAPTION

a wealth of information there to help you to try to imagine what it would have been like on D Day. The beach is imposing to say the least, I honestly can’t imagine how anyone could have scaled the cliffs or the terror that those young men must have felt landing on the beaches. The sense of sacrifice is poignant and powerful, even on a fantastic summer’s day in 2018.

Mulberry Harbour was another incredible sight, they are just the biggest chunks of concrete out at sea with one the size of a house on the beach. Luckily we had Craig with us at this point, who is an utter encyclopaedia of knowledge who explained to us the military advantage that establishing the floating harbour brought and how one of the biggest challenges of the invasion was getting supplies to where they were needed.

We next moved on to Pegasus Bridge and learned about its amazing history. On the 5th June 1944 a force of 181 men set out to capture the bridge, landing in Horsa gliders. There are some partial gliders in the grounds of the bridge and you honestly can’t imagine how scary it would have been to land in hostile territory in something that looks made of balsa wood and cardboard.

22 » MBO trip to Normandy

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We stopped for lunch at Café Gondree, which holds its place in history as the first building liberated by the Allies on D Day. The building had been used as an aid post and the café owner Monsieur Gondree apparently dug up his supply of champagne from the garden and shared it with his liberators.

Our time in Normandy came to an end with a visit to the American Cemetery just behind the landing beaches. Even though it was just an ordinary Sunday afternoon, there were thousands upon thousands of visitors there. The scale of loss is painfully obvious with a seemingly endless sea of simple graves marking those fallen in the campaign. It was beautiful and sobering and something that everyone should take the opportunity to experience. We walked back to our cars in our own silent thoughts. It was the perfect way to end the weekend, we’d had fun, we’d had beer, we learned things about those who secured our freedom that made us feel guilty we’d never learned before. We learned that boys take far less time to get ready for a night out than girls do.

We made some new friends and had fun with some old friends. We drove beautiful cars in the sunshine and feel incredibly lucky to be doing it. Oh and despite an entire weekend in the Bayeux, we never did see the tapestry….. I hear it’s beautiful…

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CAPTION

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MBO members enjoying a few beers

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The town of Bayeux?CAPTION

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24 Âť The most successful model series

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ith four body variants, three output levels and two drive types, the C Class is the most versatile and most successful model series from MercedesAMG. Extensive measures now make the C 43 4MATIC models even more attractive. The AMG radiator grille in a twin-louvre design, the powerfully sculpted front apron and the new rear apron with round twin tailpipe trim elements visibly enhance the new C 43 models and give them an even more distinct positioning. The interior benefits from an optional, fully digital cockpit with distinctive AMG displays and the new generation of steering wheels. The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine now delivers 287 kW (390hp). Together with the fast-reacting AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and rear-biased AMG Performance all-wheel drive, it has been possible to further enhance the driving dynamics and agility.

"As the most successful model series for Mercedes-AMG, the C-Class family has made a major contribution to our corporate success. One major component in this success story was the implementation of the 43-series models, which have thrilled our customers worldwide since the market launch in 2015. The high demand and

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positive feedback have encouraged us to sharpen up not only the appearance of the facelift, but also its performance, efficiency and dynamism in true AMG style," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. For this the AMG development engineers have increased the output of the 3.0 litre V6 engine by 17 kW (23 hp) to 287 kW (390 hp). The peak torque of 520 Nm is available from 2500 to 5000 rpm.

This package guarantees impressive performance figures: the Saloon and CoupĂŠ accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, the Estate and Cabriolet in 4.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design The exterior of the C 43 4MATIC is considerably more expressive, even more strongly identifying the new models as members of the family. New distinguishing features include the AMG radiator grille with twin louvre in matt iridium silver and the powerfully sculpted front apron with additional flics. The side air curtains in the front apron help with optimum guidance of the front airstream. The attachment on the cross fins plus the trim element on the front splitter are finished in silver chrome.

More efficiency: aerodynamically optimised AMG light-alloy wheels When viewed from the side, eye-catching features include the sporty side skirts plus new, aerodynamically optimised AMG light-alloy wheels. Their specifically designed outer aero rings and spoke geometry which has been optimised in the wind tunnel help to improve air flow around the wheels and thus increase aerodynamic efficiency.

As part of this the developers aimed for the optimum combination of aerodynamics, weight and brake cooling, together with maximum performance and reduced fuel consumption.

There is a choice of two aerodynamically optimised wheel designs: as standard equipment, the AMG wheel with five twin spokes is painted in tremolite grey with a high-sheen finish. Optionally there is also a five-twin-spoke design in tantalum grey, high-gloss black or matt black with high-sheen finish.

The rear view also conveys a sporty impression with two round twin tailpipe

The most successful model series » 25

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trim elements in high-gloss chrome. The rear apron with side air curtain look and the significantly more expressive diffuser improve air flow characteristics at the rear. The spoiler lip is painted in the vehicle colour. The optional AMG styling package creates highlights which are even sportier: a more expressive front splitter, the standard-fit spoiler lip, broader side skirt inserts and flics in the rear bumper are finished in high-gloss black. The further equipment options include the Carbon Fibre package II, where the exterior mirror housings and the spoiler lip on the boot lid are faced in black carbon-fibre. The Night package includes a trim strip in the front splitter of the AMG front apron in high-gloss black, inserts in the louvres of the AMG front apron in high-gloss black, black-chromed exhaust tailpipes and darktinted thermal insulation glass from the B-pillar to the rear (exception: Cabriolet).

Sporty look with modelspecific details: the interior design The interior reinforces the dynamic calibre of the new C 43 4MATIC with numerous individual details. Sporty materials such as leather, DINAMICA microfibre and aluminium in a high-quality finish continue the expressive exterior design in the interior. The optional AMG Performance seats provide optimum lateral support when adopting a dynamic driving style thanks to the special design of the seat side bolsters of the seat cushion and backrest. As an option in conjunction with leather upholstery, the seat side bolsters can be perfectly adjusted by means of built-in air cushions. The Performance seats with integrated head restraints emphasise the sporty character of the cockpit. For the first time in the C 43 4MATIC, the Performance seats can not only be heated, but climate controlled in three levels in conjunction with leather upholstery.

In the Cabriolet, they can also be optionally

equipped with AIRSCARF neck-level heating.

The upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather / DINAMICA microfibre in black with red topstitching equally underscores the dynamic driving character of the C 43 4MATIC. Matching the seat design, the door centre panels, the dashboard finished in ARTICO man-made leather and the AMG steering wheel have red topstitching. Aluminium sports pedals with black studs, trim elements in black piano lacquer with light longitudinal-grain aluminium, the black roof liner and the red seat belts create further sporty highlights.

Interior with innovative control and display concept Whether with touchpad and Controller, touch control buttons on the steering wheel or by voice control: the operating system of the C 43 4MATIC is just as versatile as it is flexible. All options are aimed at enabling the control tasks to be carried out as conveniently, quickly and appropriately to the situation as possible in this sporty environment. Just as flexible is the display of the optional, fully digital instrument cluster with 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) screen diagonal, which brings the vehicle functions directly to life with the three AMG-specific display styles of "Classic", "Sport" or "Supersport".

A host of additional AMG information Via the specific AMG menu, the driver is able to call up a host of additional information to make the driving experience even sportier: • Warm-up: engine and transmission oil temperature plus charge pressure as Boost display • Setup: current status of systems such as the drive system, suspension, exhaust

system, ESP®, transmission • G-Force: display of current g-forces in a coordinate system and ability to save maximum values • Race Timer: manual stopwatch for lap times and colour display of fastest and slowest laps, plus average speed and distance • Engine data: engine torque / rated output in a bar chart plus charge pressure as Boost display In addition there is a digital display of the current speed and the currently engaged gear.

The manual transmission mode is marked with a yellow "M".

The visualisations in the central media display likewise enable further vehicle functions to be experienced even better, e.g. with animated presentation of the driving assistance, vehicle and communication systems.

New generation of AMG steering wheels Extremely sporty design, a grippy shape with a heavily contoured rim and intuitive operation are the key attributes of the new AMG steering wheel in nappa leather, which comes as standard equipment. It has a flattened bottom section and is perforated in the grip area. The galvanised steering wheel gearshift paddles support a sporty driving style with manual gear shifting. As an option it is also available in nappa leather / DINAMICA microfibre and in nappa leather with trim in black piano lacquer. The built-in Touch Control buttons are a new feature. These can be used to control the functions of the instrument cluster (left) and the multimedia system (right) by means of horizontal and vertical swiping movements of the finger. As in the S-Class, the settings for Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and cruise control are made in the left control panels. The control panels on the right are used to activate the voice control and telephone, and

26 Âť The most successful model series

to regulate the sound volume, music selection and other functions of the multimedia system.

Well-proven and powerful: the AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine The V6 biturbo engine boasts a high power output combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The high power output is in part courtesy of separate, larger turbochargers (max. charge pressure 1.1 bar). Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response. The AMG power unit can be identified by the engine cover with red aluminium insert and AMG lettering.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission with shorter shift times The C 43 4MATIC makes use of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, which the Mercedes-AMG developers have tuned specifically for a dynamic driving experience.

This has a model-specific software application to achieve very short shift times. The multiple downshift function allows more spontaneous bursts of speed, while the double-declutching

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function in "Sport" and "Sport+" drive programs makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Defined ignition adjustments also provide faster gear shifts in the other modes.

In all modes moving off occurs in first gear in order to always guarantee a dynamic driving experience. "Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button in the centre console.

The gear changes are based on the selected drive program, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel.

Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.

Characteristics at the touch of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT With the proven DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+" and "Individual", the characteristics of the C 43 4MATIC+ can be customised at the tap of a finger. The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. This modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to

manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension set-ups can also be selected specifically as needed. The fifth mode "Slippery" is new, and is identified by means of the snowflake symbol. The moderate and even power delivery is specially programmed for slippery or snow-covered road conditions.

Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/ rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating. The single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive system is flange-mounted to the transmission as a separate system.

This configuration makes it easier to modify the torque split for each particular model, allowing even more individual characteristics for the respective model series. Its compact design means that it does not entail any space restrictions for passengers or luggage.

The most successful model series » 27

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With adaptive damping adjustment: AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension

Direct and with clear feedback: the AMG speedsensitive steering

With its adjustable, electronically controlled damping system, the AMG RIDE CONTROL steel suspension of the C 43 4MATIC provides both sporty driving dynamics and brand-typical comfort on long journeys. The basis for this is formed by the 4-link front axle and independent multilink rear suspension. The AMG-specific kinematics and elastokinematics with newly developed components result in very high camber stability when cornering at speed. The axial brake connection on the front axle supports the agile and precise handling. The adaptive adjustable damping comes as standard. This fully automatic, electronically controlled system adjusts the damping at each wheel to the current requirements. This improves driving safety and ride comfort. The damping is adjusted individually for each wheel, and depends on the driving style, the road surface and the selected suspension setting. The ideal operating point can be selected at all times on the basis of a broad scope of information relating to acceleration or vehicle speed, for example. Via a switch on the centre console, the driver can select between three different sets of damper characteristics, namely "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport+", and thus individually influence the driving experience — from highly comfortable to sporty.

The electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering has a variable ratio. It impresses with its precise, authentic feedback. The steering servo assistance is reduced at high speeds, and continuously increases at lower speeds. This means that comparatively little steering force is required at low speeds, and that the best possible control over the vehicle is maintained at high speeds. The steering servo assistance depends on the selected suspension setting. In "Sport" mode, more feedback is conveyed about the driving conditions.

Data logger for use on the race track: AMG TRACK PACE As the virtual race engineer for recording data when driving on closed-off race tracks, AMG TRACK PACE provides a significantly extended and even more precise scope of functions. TRACK PACE can be ordered as an option for the COMAND Online infotainment system. When this function is activated, a wealth of vehicle-specific data (e.g. speed, acceleration) are recorded ten times per second while driving. On top of this there are displays of lap and sector times, as well as of the respective difference for a reference time. Certain display content lights up in green or red: this means that by peripheral vision, and without reading any figures, the driver is able to

see whether the car is faster or slower than the best time. After fast laps on the racetrack, driving skills can be analysed and improved on the basis of the data.

In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g.

0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h) can be measured and saved. Thanks to a new developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, TRACK PACE even detects when the circuit is departed from or shortened. Alongside GPS data, the sensors available in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds) are used.

The data are displayed in the multimedia display, instrument cluster and head-up display. Known race tracks, for example the Nürburgring, are already stored. Furthermore, it is also possible to record your own circuits. The map display can be switched from 2D to 3D and updated online. A suitable iPhone app can also be connected via WLAN. Customers can use it to share their experiences and data from the race track with other AMG drivers via Facebook, YouTube or the AMG Private Lounge.

Wellness on long-distance journeys: ENERGIZING comfort control The optional ENERGIZING comfort control is also available for the new C 43 4MATIC. It networks together the various comfort systems in the vehicle and uses specific functions of the air conditioning and seats (heating, ventilation) plus lighting and music moods. Depending on the mood or requirement of the driver, it generates a special wellness set-up to enhance well-being and performance.

Mercedes-Benz embarked 25 years ago » 29

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MERCEDES-BENZ F

EMBARKED 25 YEARS AGO

rom traditional manufacturer of luxury cars to leading-edge full-line provider: this was the path upon which Mercedes-Benz embarked 25 years ago for the development of its passenger car range.

In January 1993 the Stuttgart-based brand went public with its decision to launch a strategic product initiative. It took the oldest automobile manufacturer in the world through an expansion of its portfolio to new strength – across all segments and markets. The first effects of the new strategy became apparent even over the course of 1993 in the form of a new design and a reconfiguration of the model designations.

To follow new paths – and to talk openly about them: this was the decision taken by MercedesBenz 25 years ago, when the Stuttgart brand presented its strategy for the development of its passenger car range to leading international journalists.

The information was given to the German media on 22 January 1993 and subsequently to the international media on 26 January 1993. These are the dates that now mark the official start of the strategic product initiative that would proceed over the ensuing years. The press conferences represented a public signal that a time of change and upheaval was about to begin. One of the envisaged outcomes from this process was a major expansion of

the product portfolio: more differentiated than ever, technologically innovative, trendsetting and supremely successful all over the world. At the same time the brand would gradually move towards offering a fresher and younger appeal. Or, to put it another way: January 1993 was when the Mercedes-Benz brand began to be cool.

Here is a quick and compact summary of what came out of the initiative: at the beginning of 1993 the brand was active in five segments. In the luxury class with its S-Class (Saloon and Coupé) vehicles, in the intermediate category with what would soon come to be known as the E-Class (Saloon, Estate, Coupé, Cabriolet) and in what at the time was still known as the compact class with the 190 model series, renamed the C-Class in May 1993.

In addition there were the SL Roadster models and the cross-country vehicles with the distinctive G in their name. By ten years later the picture had changed significantly, with eleven passenger car model series and further derivatives in the portfolio: by 2003 there was the A-Class, while the C-Class had acquired an Estate and a Sports Coupé and the SLK (now: SLC) had been added to the range along with the M-Class (now: GLE), the SLR McLaren, the Maybach and the V-Class. On top of these came a whole series of variants from AMG. Subsequent years saw vehicles such as the B-Class, the CLS, the GL (now: GLS), the R-Class and the GLK (now: GLC) join the product range.

From this one can perhaps begin to see how we got to where we are today, when it’s easier to talk about the new categories of vehicle added rather than about segments. Whether it’s the large, medium-sized or small saloons, estates, coupés or cabriolets, or the numerous variants of SUV, a shooting brake or even a pickup: the MercedesBenz brand has today become a leading-edge fullline supplier.

Launch of the strategic product initiative Back in 1993 the picture was not quite so clear.

How exactly would the brand present itself from this point on? Customers did not have to wait long for an answer: in that same year, Mercedes-Benz began to provide an important outlook on the forthcoming product initiative. One of the first way markers was the design study for an elegant fourseater coupé, shown at the 63rd International Motor Show in Geneva (4 to 14 March 1993). This was the first sighting of the distinctive four-eyed face for Mercedes-Benz that would ultimately go into series production in 1995 in the E-Class (model series 210) and in 1997 in the CLK (model series 208).

In late March 1993 the Board of Management of the then Daimler-Benz AG resolved a radical restructuring of the model nomenclature for the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, to take

30 Âť Mercedes-Benz embarked 25 years ago

effect from the summer of 1993. Following the example of the luxury saloons of the S-Class, the vehicles in the intermediate category (model series 124) would be known henceforth as the E-Class.

With the launch of the new model series 202, which also came out in 1993, the compact class became known as the C-Class. The designations for subsequent families of vehicles would also follow this pattern. Parallel to all this, the commercial release of the C-Class also brought changes to the model designations of all other Mercedes-Benz passenger car models: from now on, a letter or combination of letters – such as C or SL – was used as a prefix to the threedigit number to indicate the class of vehicle, while the letters at the end of the string, such as

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D, E, T, S, etc., which had hitherto indicated the engine or body variant, would be dropped.

In September 1993 Mercedes-Benz showed its design study for a compact vehicle, the Vision A 93, which would go on to become the A-Class.

The production version (model series 168) made its debut in 1997 at the International Motor Show in Geneva. Within this wealth of variants, we should not forget AMG. In the wake of the cooperation agreement with Mercedes-Benz in 1990, the German Patent and Trade Mark Office recognised AMG as a brand name in its own right in 1993. The C 36 AMG appeared in the autumn of that same year and soon ensured that its presence was clearly felt in terms of numbers: between then and 1997, more than 5,000 vehicles

of this powerful four-door sports saloon were built. The important part played by AMG in the strategic product initiative is therefore clear and the course of growth for the performance brand has continued unabated ever since.

Strategic product initiative brings dynamic push The evolutionary process towards becoming a premium brand of such diversity continued to gain momentum. In April of 1994, for example, Mercedes-Benz showed its first design study for the compact SLK sports car, featuring a vario roof in metal. The R 170 model series went into series production in 1996. The trendsetter with the

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distinctive three-letter name played a major part in enhancing the youthful appeal of the brand.

Mercedes-Benz was pursuing two important objectives with the “ AAVision” design concept shown at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 1996. This forerunner to the subsequent M-Class (now: GLE) represented the Stuttgart brand’s first foray into the future-orientated SUV segment.

Need for a new perspective At the same time Mercedes-Benz took the opportunity presented by this vehicle to implement its strategy of stronger globalisation, introducing new production locations. Indeed, the M-Class (model series 163), launched in 1997, was built at the company’s new production plant in Tuscaloosa, in the US state of Alabama. This location marks a milestone on the brand’s journey from the quality mark “made in Germany” to the predicate “made

by Mercedes-Benz”. Looking back, the strategic product initiative was an extremely successful course for Mercedes-Benz to take. The process of transformation that began in 1993 did, however, have very serious roots: from the late 1980s on, the motor industry in Europe became a cut-throat environment. The boundaries between the market

segments of luxury-class, intermediate and small car were becoming more and more indistinct.

Customers, meanwhile, were asking for more opportunities to individualise their vehicles. With the introduction of its compact class (W 201) in 1982, Mercedes-Benz had already taken a decisive step towards extending its product range beyond its traditional focus on the intermediate and luxury classes. Nevertheless, a summary of the latest developments in the early 1990s revealed a distinctly critical situation: 1992, for instance, was characterised by a reduction of 13,000 in the workforce and by short-time working in the German passenger car plants.

A press release from the summer of 1993 quotes the Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler-Benz AG, Helmut Werner, as follows: “Without a reduction in our workforce we shall be unable to achieve sustainable improvement in our market position in an intensely competitive environment such as that in which we currently find ourselves. The steps that we are now taking have therefore proved unavoidable.” The Stuttgart-based brand resolved to extend its range of products significantly and to move very consciously to occupy niche areas. The company also set itself the objectives of reinforcing its international reach, lowering production costs

and, despite the significant increase in vehicle variants, reducing component diversity. In this way, the objective of more economically efficient production could be combined with the growing demand of customers for new driving experiences.

The key elements of the new strategy were summarised by Helmut Werner on 28 October 1993 in a presentation to company managers: the challenges faced by the brand lay in devising “a combative policy for our products that addresses these needs” and a “global, strategic basis for the company” as well as in achieving higher productivity and cost efficiencies.

The further course leading to today’s broad product portfolio did not always prove straightforward, but was certainly complex, bringing with it a wealth of experience. The overarching challenge of transforming the brand is long deemed to have been overcome.

Mercedes-Benz offers an all-encompassing range of passenger cars covering all important market segments, while ever higher sales records serve to underscore the continuing appeal of the products. They also provide the scope for the important transition of the brand into a new age of mobility – with networked, autonomous and electrically powered vehicles as well as cutting-edge mobility concepts.

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18/10/2017 15:38

Silchester Garage » 33

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BEHIND THE SCENES AT O

ne of the main companies in Mercedes restorations of Pagodas and 190SL’s talks to Mercedes Owner magazine discussing their “Pagoda Passion”.

With hundreds of units already restored of their beloved favourites they carry out full restorations on W111 Coupe & Convertibles, W108/109, W107, W114/115, W123 and many others. Through the years Silchester Garage have accumulated a huge array of spare parts, which makes their job much easier when a rare part is required. Current there are a total of 15 employees who are dedicated to providing the finest quality of work possible. They are all trained by Paulo, the very much, hands-on Manager Director to carry out repairs at same way and level on every car.

Paulo is passionate about training young technicians to keep Silchester’s skills alive for the younger generation to continue the art of restoration. skills alive.

After almost 10 years of running the garage as Garage Manager, Paulo Custódio acquires the company in 2010, becoming the sole owner and director of Silchester Garage Ltd. Starting his early days working in his family Bodyshop in Portugal, where he spent the early years of his life and using the Bodyshop as his playground. Paulo got a great knowledge about bodywork and spray and understands very well the reaction of metal and oxygen in the presence of water or air moisture, what everyone calls Rust. Due to the salt that we are used to find on the roads, cars metal tends to rust more quickly, as a result of electrochemical reactions. However, with the technician’s expertise they can repair and rust proof these great motor cars better.

Paulo travelled to the UK in 1996 and has lived in Berkshire since then, with more than 30 years of experience working in motor trade as sprayer, panel beater and mechanics. Paulo himself, during the 70’s and the 80’s restored some Ponton’s or Fintail’s, and repaired some Mercedes w111, as well the famous taxi W114, or the w123 that came later on. All those cars

share a great amount of parts and technologies with the w113 or the w107, so he was in is environment when he started this venture of “Pagoda passion” late on 2001. At the beginning of Silchester Garage Paulo has been a hands-on Manager, produced many restorations, re-panelling or spraying complete body shells, stripping and re-fitting all the mechanical components diagnosing faults or electric problems, or even fitting interior components. More than a job, it’s a passion. Having a knowledge encyclopaedical about Classic Mercedes-Benz, Paulo is the key for all his technicians at the garage.

In the turn of the millennium, the garage was re-developed and increased to over 10,000 sq. ft. The site, which has been involved in car repairs since 1907 now has a Bodyshop, Workshop, Trim-shop, MOT bay, Showroom & Offices. This allows them to keep 95% of the work in-house when restoring these prized motor cars. Due to extremely amount of work coming from all over the UK and the world, it's in Paulo’s plans that at some near future they may have to move to a much bigger, functional and modern premises!

The team at Silchester has dedicated themselves to Pagoda passion. “Naturally Mercedes are incredibly well engineered, which makes them a great pleasure to work on, but not always the easiest to repair”. Explains Paulo. Being a specialist in Mercedes, allows them to gain more experience than anyone else in these beautiful vehicles. It also seems that every problem or issue with a restoration, Silchester Garage has had before and found the solution, which ultimately saves customers needlessly paying for extra labour for them to learn how to carry out those repairs.

For those temped in upgrading their car, purchasing a Mercedes-Benz classic or creating your very own unique classic, then talk to the Paulo and the team at Silchester Garage Ltd, Pamber Road, Silchester, Berkshire, RG7 2NX. Tel: 01189 701648 email: sales@silchestergarage.co.uk

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Leather Care Âť 35

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T

here's much more to leather than people may imagine, and with various different types, manufactured in various different ways, the manner in which one should clean and protect leather very much depends on the type of hide you are dealing with. High end handbags and other luxury goods are sometimes constructed from Aniline leather. This is dyed right through the thickness of the material as part of the tanning process. Of all the different types of leather, it could be argued that this is the most 'genuine' as it is the most closely related to the material removed from the animal.

However, with the exception of some custom re-trimmed vehicles, and the odd high-end motorcar from the 1950's and before, no modern car leather is aniline. In your Mercedes you will most likely have Top Grain or Bicast leather, the latter sometimes known as PU. Top Grain leather is essentially painted; with the surface receiving layers of colour followed by a sealing top layer much like car bodywork is painted. PU is different in that the leather is reconstituted - all the offcuts from Top Grain are mulched down and reformed - think of it like the Chicken Nugget of the leather world.

Regardless of which two types of leather your car has, their surfaces are very similar so can be treated in the same manner.

There are literally dozens of leather cleaning products out there - they range from fairly simple detergents, through more advanced surfactants, with the higherend products utilising ethylene glycol. Some cleaners contain ammonia, be it in very low concentrations, which can be very effective but needs to be treated with care, particularly on older, cracked leather where the protective barrier of paint has been removed, revealing the vulnerable hide underneath. Whichever product you

use, it is always wise to try on an inconspicuous area first, just to check that the cleaner isn't penetrating the topcoat and staining the material underneath.

Any leather cleaner worth its salt will have its own instructions. But the principle is usually the same ensure the cleaner has good contact with the substrate, the dirt, and then ensure it is removed properly rather than just spread about the surface. We find the best method is to fill a decent sized (15L+) bucket with water, then take a Tampico brush, and your chosen cleaning solution. Spray your leather cleaning solution onto the brush, then apply the brush to the leather, agitating it in vertical and horizontal lines, then in a circular motion, clockwise followed by anti-clockwise. We suggest doing your seats section by section - so, for example, the left bolster, then the central part of the squab, then the right bolster, and so forth. Use the brush to agitate the cleaner into all the textured areas of the leather - many cleaners will foam, and on dirty seats the foam itself will often discolour as it gets contaminated with dirt. Then use a clean terry cloth and wipe the dirt away - do so in systematic straight lines, and make sure your fold the cloth after every wipe to ensure you are removing, rather than relocating dirt. The brush should be regularly dipped in the bucket of water, then shaken dry, and cleaner re-applied. On a dirty interior, the once clear water in the bucket will likely be discoloured and semiopaque by the time the driver's seat is done. Other tips are to vacuum the seat thoroughly before cleaning, and try not to saturate the seat - if there are any breaches in the topcoat, you don't want water getting in there and staining the hide. One final cleaning tip is that if you are removing lots of dirt but the seats aren't completely clean, consider just repeating the process in the same manner, rather than trying to find a stronger cleaner or getting more aggressive with the brush. Sometimes dirt

builds up in layers and it is time consuming to strip them back one by one. Do remember that clean leather has a matte finish, if your leather is shiny, that is more than likely still coated in dirt and grime.

When it comes to leather protection, don't be taken in by products that claim to feed and moisturise your hide - the surface of your modern automotive seats is essentially a plastic, and any concept of moisturizing like one would ones own skin are fantastical machinations of a marketing department. This is not to say that you shouldn't protect your leather, indeed we would recommend doing so quarterly at the very least to preserve the topcoat of your seats for as long as possible. If leather is protected properly it can quite easily last the lifetime of the vehicle, even with vehicles like ours that last a lifetime. As with the cleaning products, we recommend following the productspecific guidelines when applying your selected product. That said, there are some principles common to just about any protection product.

Firstly, and perhaps obviously, ensure your seats are properly clean prior to applying any protection.

Secondly, be methodical in your application of a protection product, overlapping where you have and haven't already applied the product to ensure full coverage. Finally, if possible, don't protect the leather and then jump in and go for a drive - it is best to leave the protection products overnight prior to using the car.

Leather care is something that you can easily do at home, and is one of the more satisfying detailing processes. With the PRO Detailer Magazine we tested products from nine different manufacturers specifically for their cleaning and protection abilities.

The full report and results will be published in their summer edition coming out in late July.

Peter Jarvis Specialising in Mercedes-Benz + Classic Cars Mercedes Sports 350SL 1980 finished in glacier white with tan hide interior, headrests, hard and soft tops, tinted glass, power windows, power steering, automatic, over mats, original stereo, factory alloys, this car has only covered 45,000 original miles from new, with full Mercedes history, and all old MOTs, and invoices complete with all original tools. Recent full service, garaged from new, this car must be one of the finest to be on offer. £28,750.

By appointment only Gildenhill Place, Gildenhill Rd, Swanley, Kent BR8 7PD Tel: 01322 669081 Fax: 01322 662400 Mobile: 07836 250222 www.peterjarvis.net

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CLS Coupé » 37

•

• Prices start from £57,510 for entry-level CLS 350 d 4MATIC • Two diesel and two petrol engines available: CLS 350 d 4MATIC; CLS 400 d 4MATIC; CLS 450 4MATIC; and Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ • All engines available in AMG Line trim only, with the exception of AMG CLS 53 • AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ will go on sale in May, with first cars due to arrive from September 2018 • 350 d and 400 d both come with a new 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine – codenamed OM656 • The 350 d produces 286 hp and 600 Nm, while the 400 d generates 340 hp and 700 Nm. The 350 d can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 5.7 seconds, and the 400 d takes five seconds. Both have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The 350 d can achieve 48.7 mpg (combined) and emits 156 g/km of CO2. The 400 d delivers 47.9 mpg and emits 156 g/km of CO2 • The 450 uses a new 3.0-litre in-line sixcylinder biturbo petrol engine, featuring Mercedes-Benz’s innovative new EQ boost technology, consisting of a 48 volt starter generator and lithium-ion battery • The 450 has an output of 367 hp and 500

•

•

• •

•

Nm of torque, with an extra 250 Nm and 22 hp available thanks to the EQ boost system.

It can travel from standstill to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. It has a combined mpg of 36.2 and emits 184 g/km of CO2 All-new CLS 53 4MATIC+ features a sixcylinder straight six engine, capable of producing 435 hp. It can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited) Thanks to the EQ Boost inline startergenerator, which combines a starter motor and alternator in a powerful electric motor, the CLS 53 can also achieve 32.5 mpg while emitting 200 g/km of CO2 – without compromising on driving performance A 9G-Tronic automatic transmission comes as standard across the range CLS 53 uses the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G-Tronic transmission which boasts extremely short shift times, fast response to shift paddle commands, a doubledeclutching function and multiple downshifts Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels; parking package, including reversing camera; leather upholstery; split folding rear seats (40:20:40); 12.3-inch infotainment screen; 12.3-inch cockpit display; ambient

•

•

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lighting with a choice of 64 colours; Agility Control suspension; Multibeam Intelligent Light System with Ultra Range high beam; and DAB radio The Driving Assistance Plus package is optionally available for £1,695. The package contains the latest in driving assistance technology, as recently launched in the new S-Class. The innovative system now features route-based speed adaptation – meaning the vehicle can detect upcoming junctions and roundabouts and adjust its speed accordingly The Premium Plus equipment line is available for an additional £3,895, and includes Keyless Go Comfort package; Memory package, including electrically adjustable front seats and steering wheel; Burmester surround system; 360° camera; Comand Online infotainment system; and electric sliding sunroof The Comfort package can be specified in conjunction with Premium Plus and adds Air Balance; Air Body Control air suspension; Energizing comfort control package; and black nappa leather upholstery. The Comfort package costs £2,495 The Energizing comfort control package was first unveiled in the S-Class. The vehicle’s various comfort systems work together to enable a specific wellness setup to suit the mood and need of the driver and passengers. One of the following six wellness programmes can be selected: freshness; warmth; vitality; joy; comfort; and training. Each programme adjusts the climate control, seats (heat, ventilation, massage), lighting, and music settings.

38 » Southampton Boat Show

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BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BOATING FESTIVAL TO CELEBRATE ITS GOLDEN YEAR This year marks the 50th edition of TheYachtMarket.com Southampton Boat Show which is set to be the biggest celebration of all things marine. The Show will showcase the lifestyle, fun and excitement that being on the water has to offer.

Set against a stunning backdrop featuring some of the world’s most luxurious and innovative boats, Europe’s largest purpose-built marina will host thousands of guests and businesses over the action-packed 10 days in September.

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Southampton Boat Show » 39

hether tempted to dip your toe in for the first time, an aspiring sailor or seasoned boater, the Show offers a fantastic social experience and the perfect opportunity to indulge a passion for the water. Regardless of age or experience, there will be plenty of opportunities for everyone to get involved in. This includes an array of watersports and boating activities – from an indulgent cruise onboard a top-of-the-range luxury motor yacht to an exhilarating sail aboard a 72ft round the world Ocean Race Yacht as part of a 12 strong team.

Much has changed in 50 years, but our love for the ocean remains unwavering. As the marine environment becomes an increasing global concern, the Boat Show will be host to leading and well-known scientific and wildlife experts highlighting the environmental challenges facing the boating world in 2018. This will include on and off the water attractions from the National Oceanography Centre, the UK’s leading centre of excellence for oceanographic studies. Alongside its pledge to cut onsite plastics at the Show, it will showcase the technical innovations set to ensure that the future of the marine industry and the

environment remains bright.

Guests can relax at one of the Show’s many bars and enjoy live entertainment or simply soak up the last of the summer sun whilst climbing onboard some of the most idyllic boats in the world. Falling at the end of the Summer, TheYachtMarket. com Southampton Boat Show promises to be the perfect way to conclude the season with plenty of opportunities to unwind.

As Britain’s premier nautical event, the 50th TheYachtMarket.com Southampton Boat Show is set to be the biggest and most incredible celebration yet, offering 10 unforgettable days celebrating the past whilst navigating the future of the marine world.

Early Bird tickets are now on sale, with two children under the age of 15 going free with each adult.

10am – 6.30pm from 14-22 September and 10am – 6pm on Sunday 23 September For more information please visit www.southamptonboatshow.com

42 » The Legend of Rudolph Uhlenhaut

mercedesclub.org.uk

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194 series) racing car unveiled in 1952 was clearly engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s achievement. For it was Uhlenhaut, one of the rare automotive specialists with a great talent for design, who created it, laying the basis for racing successes as well as for the subsequent 300 SL (W 198) production sports car.

A

fter his graduation in 1931, Rudolf Uhlenhaut was recruited by Research Director Fritz Nallinger, initially as plant assistant for testing.

Nallinger rapidly recognised Uhlenhaut’s skill as a “driving engineer”. Because Uhlenhaut would drive whatever he could get his hands on – and did so rapidly and consummately tackling anything, for example, from the monstrous MercedesBenz G 4 three-axle off-road vehicle to the 500 K lightweight sports roadster,

the latter in the tour “2000 km through Germany” – Uhlenhaut felt at home in any and everything that had wheels. His successful career as a racing-car developer from 1936 was also initiated by Nallinger.

But how did Uhlenhaut’s brilliant creations come about? The answer lies in his multifaceted personality. He was born in London in 1906 – English was his first language – and embraced engineering as a career. However, if one were to imagine him as a designer in a white lab coat

standing at the drawing board, as was usual in those times, one would have to think again! Because Uhlenhaut was more likely to be found in some vehicle or other, or in the workshops devising solutions with his colleagues. There is a famous anecdote from the 1950s: on one occasion he sent two young engineers to his friend Josef Müller in the design department and announced them by phone with the following statement: “Josef, I’m sending two of my youngsters over. Please have

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your people retrace whatever they tell you. And mind you, I mean retrace, and not rethink!”

Two things were highly typical of Uhlenhaut: he developed his ideas from practical experience and he always treated his colleagues, whether in the workshop or in the office, as equals and never patronised them. His composure and authority coupled with his competence meant that his superiors also treated him on an equal standing, too.

After the Second World War, he soon became involved with sports vehicles again. He was employed by British Colonel Michael McEvoy of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers to build a small racing car for him. Both had been acquainted in the pre-war years, when McEvoy was working on the installation of Zoller compressors in racing engines. He designed a frame made from closed tubular triangles for the small racing car. The individual tubular segments were only stressed through pressure or tensioning. This enabled the frame to be lightweight yet sturdy, guaranteeing a high degree of torsional and bending rigidity. The idea of segments subjected only to tensional and compressive forces was new although tubiform frames had in fact existed before then. Uhlenhaut adopted the space frame principle for the 300 SL racing car (W 194 series): the frame had a final weight of between 64 and 68 kilograms, which not only made it lighter but also more torsionally rigid than the X-oval tubular frame of the pre-war W 154.

Due to time and cost constraints, it was imperative for him to use the engine from the prestigious Mercedes-Benz 300 saloon (W 186 series) for the 300 SL, so he reflected on ways to reduce the vehicle’s aerodynamic resistance. The solution: rotating the engine by 50 degrees towards the left and providing it with a dry-sump lubrication system enabled the height to be reduced. Thanks to this change the

The Legend of Rudolph Uhlenhaut » 43

300 SL had a very low front and low head resistance.

Uhlenhaut’s concept was successful.

In December 1952 he summed up the sports performance of the 300 SL with the following words: “The races run in 1952 have shown that the 300 SL with a naturally-aspirated engine was at least equal – if not superior – to even the strongest opponent; but also that its acceleration on good roads was significantly less than that of the Ferrari 4.1 litre, and somewhat lower than that of the Ferrari 3 litre and 2.3-litre Gordini. However, the opponents’ inferior

operational reliability and the great endurance of the 300 SL generally led to victory for our brand.”

Uhlenhaut’s concept for the 300 SL – and in particular the car with chassis number 11, further developed and prepared by him for the 1953 racing season – was so convincing that it was adopted for the new racing cars for the 1954/55 seasons. As Head of Development for Passenger Cars he had a decisive role in the development and suspension tuning of all SL models up until the 107 series that had its premiere in 1971. Rudolf Uhlenhaut retired on 30 September 1972.

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Mercedes-Benz Approved Retailers Showing discounts offered to MBO members on production of a valid membership card when car is brought in to dealership BUCKINGHAMSHIRE Mercedes-Benz of Aylesbury Bicester Road, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8BL Tel: 01296 319600 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

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Mercedes-Benz of Stockport 111 Wellington Road North, Stockport, Cheshire, SK4 2QH Tel: 0161 4421000 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

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Discount: 10% Service, parts and repairs for MBO members – Show card at Service Desk.

HERTFORDSHIRE Mercedes-Benz of Bishop's Stortford Stansted Road, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 2BT Tel: 01279 719333 Services available: Car Sales, Independent Garage Specialists, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% labour, 5% parts for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Hertford Foxholes Business Park, John Tate Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7LB Tel: 01992 514444 Services available: Car Sales, Independent Garage Specialists, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 5% parts and 10% labour for MBO members - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Stevenage Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2BT Tel: 01438 737800 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% parts and Labour for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Watford Colne Bridge Retail Park, Lower High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2JG Tel: 01923 691260 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Waltham Cross 91-93 Eleanor Cross Road, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN8 7JW Tel: 0845 0920244 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts.

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KENT Mercedes-Benz of Ashford Monument Way, Orbital Park, Ashford, Kent, TN24 0HB Tel: 0844 5392060 Discount: 10% parts, 10% servicing on cars under 4 years.

Mercedes-Benz Dartford Burnham Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 5BL Tel: 01322 771784 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

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Mercedes-Benz Orpington (After Sales) Brook Industrial Park, Mill Brook Road, Orpington, Kent, BR5 3TX Tel: 01689 414884 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Tonbridge Vale Rise, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1TB Tel: 0844 5392066 Discount: 10% parts, 10% servicing on cars under 4 years.

Mercedes-Benz of Canterbury A28 Mill Road, Sturry, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 0AD Tel: 01227 683612 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 15% parts and service for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.

LANCASHIRE Mercedes-Benz of Manchester Central Ashton New Road, Manchester, Lancashire, M11 3RR Tel: 0161 2304600 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Whitefield 845 Manchester Road, Bury, Manchester, BL9 9TP Tel: 0161 7964270 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

LONDON Mercedes-Benz Chelsea (After Sales) Jews Row, Wandsworth, Chelsea, London, SW18 1TB Tel: 0208 8709811 Services available: Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Colindale 403 Edgware Road, Colindale, London, NW9 0HX Tel: 0208 9147295 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

mercedesclub.org.uk

Mercedes-Benz Temple Fortune 1089 Finchley Road, Temple Fortune, London, NW11 0PU Tel: 0208 9147315 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Chelsea (Sales) Pier House, Cheyne Walk, Chelsea, London, SW3 5HX Tel: 0208 9147287 Services available: Car Sales, AMG Performance Centre.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Croydon 76-78 Purley Way, Croydon, London, CR0 3JP Tel: 0208 9147299 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Stratford (After Sales) Unit 4, Rick Roberts Way, Stratford, London, E15 2NF Tel: 0208 2214460 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Bromley 1-3 Wickham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5JS Tel: 0208 9147282 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Bromley (After Sales) Units 13–15, Bell Green Retail Park, Sydenham, London, SE26 4PR Tel: 0208 6639800 MIDDLESEX Mercedes-Benz Brentford Great West Road (A4), Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9AH Tel: 0208 5602151 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Heathrow (After Sales) Unit 8 Zodiac Park, High Road, Cowley, Middlesex, UB8 2GU Tel: 01895 456010 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

N IRELAND Mercedes-Benz of Belfast 6 Boucher Crescent, Belfast, N Ireland, BT12 6HU Tel: 02890 689000 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% parts, service and MOT preparation for MBO members - Please show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Approved Retailers Mercedes-Benz of Portadown Carn Court Road, Carn Roundabout, Portadown, Armagh, N Ireland, BT63 5YX Tel: 02838 337373 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% parts, service and MOT preparation for MBO members - Please show card at Service Desk.SCOTLAND SCOTLAND Mercedes-Benz of Coldstream 1 Guards Road, Coldstream, Berwickshire, TD12 4AL Tel: 0843 3572059 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% labour & 10-20% parts for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Edinburgh (EAST) 235 Willowbrae Road, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH8 7ND Tel: 0843 3572400 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Servicing.

Discount: 10-20% parts and 10% labour for MBO members - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Edinburgh (West) Edinburgh's Luxury Car Village Newbridge, Edinburgh, EH28 8QW Tel: 0843 357 2798 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Servicing.

Discount: 10-20% parts and 10% labour for MBO members - Show Card at Service Desk.

SOMERSET Mercedes-Benz of Taunton Toneway, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 2EJ Tel: 01823 447555 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% Parts and servicing for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.

STAFFORDSHIRE Mercedes-Benz of Tamworth Mile Oak, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 3PQ Tel: 01827 284284 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

SURREY Mercedes-Benz Brooklands Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL Tel: 01932 373000 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Caterham 381 Croydon Road, Caterham, Surrey, CR3 6PN Tel: 0345 0920244 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs – Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz Epsom Kiln Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 1EG Tel: 01372 747000 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Guildford Moorfield Road, Slyfield, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1RU Tel: 01483 654000 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% Service, parts and repairs for MBO members – Show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Hindhead (After Sales) Seven Thorns Lane, Bramshott Chase, Hindhead, Surrey, GU26 6DF Tel: 01428 606660 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% Service, parts and repairs for MBO members – Show card at Service Desk.

SUSSEX (EAST) Mercedes-Benz of Eastbourne Eastbourne Road, Westham, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN24 5NH Tel: 0844 5392070 Discount: 10% parts, 10% servicing on cars under 4 years.

SUSSEX (WEST) Mercedes-Benz of Gatwick 78 Gatwick Road, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 9AW Tel: 0844 5392072 Discount: 10% parts, 10% servicing on cars under 4 years.

WALES Mercedes-Benz of Bridgend Old Field Road, Bocam Park, Pen-Coed, Bridgend, Wales, CF35 5LJ Tel: 01656 868700 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 5% service, parts and repairs for MBO members - Please show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Cardiff & Newport Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Pontprennau, Cardiff, Wales, CF23 8RS Tel: 02920 542400 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 5% parts, service and repairs for MBO members - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Neyland Haven Bridge Road, Neyland, Wales, SA73 1QY Tel: 01646 602211 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 5% parts, service and repairs for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Swansea Langdon Road, Swansea, Wales, SA1 8QY Tel: 01792 479400 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% parts, service and repairs for MBO members - Show card at Service Desk.EST MIDLANDS WEST MIDLANDS Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham Central Lawley Middleway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7XH Tel: 0121 7661600 Services available: AMG Performance Centre, Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Solihull 301 Warwick Road, Olton, Solihull, West Midlands, B92 7AB Tel: 0121 7062801 Services available: Car Sales.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Solihull (After Sales) Unit 4 Focus Park, Ashbourne Way, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 4QU Tel: 0121 7136250 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% Service, Parts and Repairs - Show Card at Service Desk.

WILTSHIRE Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury Southampton Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2JS Tel: 01722 662865 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing, Smart Centres / Smart Parts.

Discount: 10% Service, parts and repairs for MBO members – Show card at Service Desk.

YORKSHIRE Europa - Mercedes-Benz Authorised Retailer Granville Square, 48 Suffolk Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S2 4AL Tel: 01142 859955 Services available: M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: 10% stock ordered parts, 10% servicing for MBO members - Show Card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Doncaster Wheatley Hall Road, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN2 4NF Tel: 01302 554600 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: MBO discounts available. Show card at Service Desk.

Mercedes-Benz of Sheffield Sheffield, South Yorkshire Road, Meadowhall, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S9 2FZ Tel: 01142 626100 Services available: Car Sales, M-B Official After Sales, Parts, Servicing.

Discount: MBO Discounts available.

Show card at Service Desk.

46 » » Specialist Directory 38 Specialist Directory

mercedesclub.org.uk mercedesclub.org.uk

Breakdown Breakdown THE No.1 SPECIALISTS THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS

THE THE No.1 No.1 SPECIALISTS SPECIALISTS 0333 240 1020 0333 240 1020 FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS All parts available for Mercedes Cars & ComAll parts available for Mercedes Cars & Com-

mercial vehicles with warranty (charged at local rate) mercial vehicles with warranty MERCEDES FOR NEW & PARTS (charged at local rate) FOR NEW & USED USED MERCEDES PARTS • Next day delivery • Fully equipped workshop with

All All parts parts available available for for Mercedes Mercedes Cars Cars & & Commercial Commercial vehicles vehicles with with warranty warranty Friendly Staff • Cars & spares purchased

0333 0333 240 240 1020 1020 0333 240 1020 (charged local rate) 0333 at 240 (charged at local 1020 rate)

FOR NEW & USEDMercedes MERCEDES PARTS All All parts parts available available for for Mercedes Cars Cars & & ComCommercial vehicles with All available for Cars mercial vehicles with warranty warranty All parts parts available for Mercedes Mercedes Cars & & ComCommercial mercial vehicles vehicles with with warranty warranty

(charged (charged at at local local rate) rate)

• day delivery • Fully equipped workshop with • Next Next day delivery • Fully equipped workshop with • delivery • equipped Genuineworkshop Mercedeswith MB day trained technicians • Next Next delivery • Fully Fully • •equipped Genuineworkshop Mercedeswith MB day trained technicians • Mercedes MB trained technicians • will beat any diagnostic computer • Genuine Genuine Mercedes MB trained technicians • Dronsfield Dronsfield will beat any diagnostic computer • Dronsfield willService beat any diagnostic computer • National Collection • genuine quote • Dronsfield willService beat any diagnostic computer • National Collection • genuine quote Friendly Staff •National Cars & spares purchased • Collection Service • genuine quote Friendly Staff Cars & spares purchased • •National Collection Service • genuine quote

Surrey Independent Est. 1977 70+ years combined Mercedes experience

Friendly Staff • Cars & spares purchased Friendly Staff • Cars & spares purchased

MERCEDES-BENZ SPECIALIST

Specialist with 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

• Servicing • Repairs • Diagnostics • • Genuine Mercedes parts used • S TAR MOT OR S ERVIC E Mercedes LT D • Full warranty protected •

15:02:07 15:02:07

Specialising in Mercedes-Benz

Servicing/Specialist Repairs Servicing/Specialist Repairs

Tel: 0208 941 4044 www.tmmotors.net Unit 8, 24 Central Avenue, West Molesey, Surrey KT8 2QH

Surrey Independent Est. 1977 • DTE systems • ECO technics years & combined • 70+ Service repairsMercedes to all MBexperience models Servicing • Repairs • Diagnostics • T:• 01253 729889 M: 07734 219094 • Genuine Mercedes parts used • W: www.westcoastautomotive.co.uk

• Full Mercedes warranty 50x45.pdf protected • StevensonsAd 8 Allenby Road, St Annes, Lancashire FY8 2DG 1

SPECIALISING IN

LLOO NNEE CCAA WW TTII OONN

Mercedes-Benz

Watnall, Nottingham.

Tel:Watnall, 0115Nottingham.

938 2241

WAYNE GATES

Fax: 945 2241 9162 Tel:0115 0115 938

HARROW

Fax:info@pdgough.com 0115 945 9162 Email: Email: info@pdgough.com www.pdgough.com

• Specialist in Mercedes-Benz Servicing & Repairs • Family run business established 25 years • Star Diagnostics – as used by Mercedes-Benz main dealers • All vehicles receive a free mini valet • Free collection & delivery available locally

www.pdgough.com ‘Handmade’ Stainless Steel Exhaust Systems for ‘Handmade’ Steelwith Exhaust Systems for collectable &Stainless classic cars our transferable collectable “Vehicle & classicLife” carsguarantee. with our transferable “Vehicle Life” guarantee.

For a truly personal service, call Terry on

020 8863 9233

Insurance

Unit F3, Phoenix Industrial Estate, Rosslyn Crescent, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 2SP

Insurance

Tel: 0208 941 4044 www.tmmotors.net Unit 8, 24 Central Avenue, West Molesey, Surrey KT8 2QH

Unit 1, 28 Send Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 8EH Tel: 0118 946 2750 C

S TAR MOT OR S ERVIC E LT D Specialising in Mercedes-Benz

M

West Coast Automotive

Y

CM

THE No.1 SPECIALISTS

MY

THE No.1 SPECIALISTS 0333 240 1020

Ltd

Exhaust Specialists 0717_classified_BDOWN.indd 26/07/2017 0717_classified_BDOWN.indd 1 1 26/07/2017 Exhaust Specialists

West Coast Automotive Mercedes-Benz

Specialist

Ltd

THE No.1 SPECIALISTS THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR & MERCEDES THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR NEW NEW & USED USED MERCEDES PARTS PARTS THE No.1 SPECIALISTS FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS

• Next delivery • Fully •equipped Genuineworkshop Mercedeswith MB day trained technicians • Genuine MB trained technicians • Dronsfield willMercedes beat any diagnostic computer • Dronsfield willService beat any diagnostic computer • National Collection • genuine quote Collection Service • genuine quote Friendly Staff• •National Cars & spares purchased

Steve Redfearn Motor Co. Ltd.

PLEASE TELEPHONE Wimbledon SW19 1QS Tel: 020 8540 2311 Mark Sykes on Email: redfearn@nascr.net Mercedes-Benz 01892 710508 totrained technicians specialising in Tel/Fax: 01784 243426 Mob: 07956 360293 repairs and servicing. Fully equipped workshops Email: info@andysautobarn.com with diagnostic computer technology. list your advertisement Henry's Yard, Challenge Road, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AX Mercedes-Benz in the classifieds New and Used Mercedes Body Parts Available

Unit 1, 28 Send Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 8EH Tel: 0118 946 2750CY

FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS

All parts available for Mercedes Cars & Commercial vehicles with warranty

(charged at local rate)

FOR MERCEDES-BENZ SERVICING MERCEDES-BENZ SPECIALIST SPECIALISTS with PORTMAN 25 THE YEARSNo.1 EXPERIENCE FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS THE No.1 SPECIALISTS MERCEDES • DTE systems •SPECIALIST ECO technics FOR NEW & USED MERCEDES PARTS •SERVICING All parts available for Mercedes Cars & Com0333 240 1020 • Service •MOT & repairs to all MB models TO ALL MAKES mercial vehicles with warranty All parts available for Mercedes Cars & Com0333 240 (charged at local 1020 rate) CMY

• Next day delivery • Fully equipped workshop with MB trained technicians • Genuine Mercedes diagnostic computer • Dronsfield will beat any genuine quote • National Collection Service • Friendly Staff • Cars & spares purchased

LO NE LO NE CA W CA W TI TI ON ON

K

M.B.S M.B.S Of Southampton

20 years combined experience in servicing, repairs, full diagnostics, Of Southampton airconditioning. Courtesy car provided by prior arrangement.

20 years combined experience in servicing, repairs, full diagnostics, Tel: 02380 445820 airconditioning.

Courtesy car provided Email@mbsofsouthampton.co.uk by prior arrangement.

www.mbs-soton.co.uk

Tel: 02380 445820

8 Hazel Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 7GB Email@mbsofsouthampton.co.uk www.mbs-soton.co.uk

0717_classified_CAR.indd 1

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26/07/2017 Parts New&&Used Used Parts New

0717_classified_CAR.indd 1

AutoTechnic

8 Hazel Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 7GB Norfolk’s Independent Specialist

14:56:36

W140 W140

.co.uk

Quality used .co.uk parts selected andparts guaranteed Quality used selected and guaranteed

Own a W140?...

Own a W140?... ...Talk to the specialists ...Talk to the Tel: 01580 specialists 291222 Tel: 01580 291222 www.w140.co.uk www.w140.co.uk

Over 25 years Mercedes-Benz main dealer experience Servicing – Diagnostics – Mechanical repairs New for 2009 Smart Car Servicing Air Conditioning Servicing - MOT Test Centre Courtesy car by prior arrangement

Specialising in

TEL: Loddon (01508) 522995 Mercedes-Benz www.autotechnic-mercedes.co.uk

servicing & repairs

Established 15 years

Unit 7&9 Langley Road Trading Estate, Chedgrave, Caversham, Norwich NR14 6HD

Unit 1, 28 Send Road, Reading, Berks RG4 8EH Tel: 0118 946 2750 www.starmotorservices.com

mercial vehicles with warranty T: 01253•MECHANICAL M:REPAIRS 07734 • 729889 Next day delivery • Fully 219094 equipped workshop with

•ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS W: www.westcoastautomotive.co.uk ••ACCIDENT Next delivery • Fully •equipped Genuineworkshop Mercedeswith MB day trained technicians REPAIRS 8 Allenby Road, Sttrained Annes, Lancashire 2DG Mercedes •COLLECTION AND DELIVERY •FY8 Genuine MB technicians diagnostic computer

ON BRAND NEW ORIGINAL & REPLACEMENT MERCEDES PARTS

Exclusive Online 5% MBO Discount, Use Code: MBO411

Visit our new website

www.kmsparts.com Or call

0121 753 6477 | 0208 896 5661 MASSIVE RANGE, MASSIVE SAVINGS!

MERCEDES OWNER?

• Dronsfield will beat any

• Dronsfield willService beat any diagnostic computer Tel: 020 quote 8961 3317 • National Collection • genuine

George Fraser Ltd

www.portmangarages.co.uk Friendly Staff Cars & spares purchased • •National Collection Service genuine quote 212 ACTONFriendly LANE, LONDON, Staff • NW10 Cars &7NH spares purchased

Independent Mercedes Benz Specialists

W N NE TIO CA O L Independent Mercedes Benz Specialists

George Fraser Ltd

· Specialist in Service and Repairs · Dealer level Diagnostics · Free Collection and Delivery

Tel: 020 8795 · Specialist in Service and1055 Repairs info@georgefraserltd.com · Dealer level Diagnostics

www.georgefraserltd.com · Free Collection and Delivery Unit 1B, Rear of Minavil House, Ealing Road, Alperton, Wembley, Middlelsex HA0 4PZ

Tel: 020 8795 1055

info@georgefraserltd.com www.georgefraserltd.com Unit J, Erskdale Industrial Estate, Erskdale Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2RT

PORTMAN

MERCEDES SPECIALIST •SERVICING •MOT TO ALL MAKES •MECHANICAL REPAIRS •ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS •ACCIDENT REPAIRS •COLLECTION AND DELIVERY

Better Service, Better Prices

•

A Service £140.00 B Service £180.00

6 Month Guarantee on Diagnostics Checks

MERCEDES OWNER? Better Service, Better Prices

A Service Fleet Road Garage,£140.00 36 Fleet Road, B Service £180.00 Holbeach, Lincs, PE12 8LA Mercedes Independent Specialist 6 Month Guarantee on Diagnostics Checks Call today

01406 422457

www eetroadgarage.co.uk

Fleet Road Garage, 36 Fleet Road, Holbeach, Lincs, PE12 8LA Mercedes Independent Specialist Call today

01406 422457

www eetroadgarage.co.uk

Tel: 020 8961 3317

www.portmangarages.co.uk 212 ACTON LANE, LONDON, NW10 7NH

Sovereign Motor Centre

Mercedes-Benz Specialist

UP TO 70% OFF

(charged at local rate)

PLEASE TELEPHONE Services, Repairs,

Electronic Diagnosis, Air Conditioning Bodyworkon 01892 710508 Mark&Sykes also undertaken. totechnicians list your advertisement Fully trained Tel: 0208 699 44 55 in the Specialist Directory Unit 5c, Malham, London SE23

AutoTechnic Norfolk’s Independent Specialist

Over 25 years Mercedes-Benz main dealer experience Servicing – Diagnostics – Mechanical repairs New for 2009 Smart Car Servicing Air Conditioning Servicing - MOT Test Centre Courtesy car by prior arrangement

TEL: Loddon (01508) 522995 www.autotechnic-mercedes.co.uk Unit 7&9 Langley Road Trading Estate, Chedgrave, Norwich NR14 6HD

20

Classifieds » 47

mercedesclub.org.uk

PRESTIGE MERCEDES Mercedes specialist run by Charles Wellswith over 40 years experience.

Specialising in the following models: R107, W123, 124, 116 and the superb 126 coupés and saloons We would also like to introduce "Beeza.biz" a company dedicated to ecologically sound under body treatments far superior to current traditional under body treatments that are available.

Please ring me for details 01732 763956, 07970 553071, 07773 583583 Kemsing, Kent

Restoration & Repairs

Pool Lane Ads:Merc Owner 70x95

28/6/07

14:21

Number Plates

Page 1

Classic Mercedes Restorations • Over 35 years practical experience • Family-run company • Nationwide collection • Warranty on work carried out • Call us for free estimates & advice

01423 330591 Station Yard Kirk Hammerton York, YO26 8DN

Established 1984 SL 350 2003~ (Above) 51,000 miles, 1 previous owner, full service history, full MoT, excellent condition, £8,500.

Tel: 07967 789227 (Hertfordshire)

www.poollaneclassics.com poollaneclassics@btconnect.com

BSZ 7720 BSZ 7721 JGZ 5912 JGZ 5913 LXZ 5606

LXZ 5607 NRZ 5440 NRZ 5441 TIG 5223 TIG 5224

Numbers from £50

Wheels and Tyres

Members of CNDA and RMIF

Tel: (028) 6638 7124

KEYS of BEXLEYHEATH Independent Mercedes Specialists in Bexleyheath with over 35 year’s experience

Ideal Present for your Loved One~ T7 LOV for sale priced £1,800 ono; L16 LOV £1,200 ono; D9 OST £1,200 ono, all

Classified Section

For sale my beautiful 220S 1959~ (Above) Ex US dry state, imported here in 2014, owned by myself for last 4 years. Runs and drives nicely for a 59 year old vehicle, no rust. An appreciating asset. £17,500 or very near offer. Tel : 07909611671 or 0208 302 5614. (Kent)

ono. Tel: 07563 559136

K1T PM

Specialising in all aspects of Service, Mechanical Repairs & Sales of Mercedes-Benz

Tel: 0121 331 1066 Fax: 0121 331 1090

Plate on retention "KIT" £1500 ono Tel: 07798932311 kit.marquand@talktalk.net Beautiful condition, Mercedes 320 CE (1993)~ (above) full service history, 72,000 miles. Just £16,995ovno (Braintree, Essex) Call William on 07702 384688.

W.D.M. CARS 92-94 Aldridge Rd, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2TP

C36 AMG 1996 Blue/Black~ (Above) UK vehicle 87,500 miles full service history, receipts for £24,980 form last 2 owners spare set of original alloys need refurbishment included. If interested, please call to discuss.

Tel. 02392256552 (Waterlooville Hampshire)

www.r129.co

No1 Independent Specialist in Hertfordshire.

1994 320 S124 Estate~ (Above) Immaculate throughout 1994 320 estate, 76000 miles from new and full history.

Blue cloth interior, electric seats, cruise control, 7 seats, climate control, electric windows. Automatic RHD. Imported from Japan, full UK conversion. Rust free.

Summer and Winter wheels and tyres. Just MOTd and serviced. Private sale, must be seen £7450 ovno Call for more details. Tel: 01603 720772 (Norwich)

REGISTRATION PLATE S155 AMG (Ideal for SL55 AMG!) ON RETENTION CERTIFICATE~ Available immediately, S600 AMG Facelift S Class ~ SERVICED EVERY YEAR AT MERCEDES AND MERCEDES WARRANTY INCLUDED. The car is the highest spec in the uk with night vision, champagne fridge, distronic cruise control, rear entertainment, panoramic roof, designo interior, factory fitted AMG kit, massage seats, rear+side blinds, lane assist, blind spot alert, contour seats. The car also has the Mercedes Benz tier 1 warranty included in the sale (covers pretty much everything). The car has 2 previous owners and has been serviced every year by Mercedes Benz (all receipts) and has just been serviced at Mercedes Watford and had the brakes replaced. Non smoker and low mileage car 55,000 Call or email for any more info, any inspection welcome. Black, 2 previous owners, £23,500. Located: Ruislip Tel; 07939 528 207/ youvegotmail@carhuddle.com

ww.theslshop.com

Tel: 01462 672 458 service@prestigemotorgroup.co.uk www.prestigemotorgroup.co.uk 7A Flint Road, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 1HJ

Tel: 07798932311 kit.marquand@talktalk.net

Tel Mark: 07535 509429 1973 Mercedes 350SL (107) White (above) Genuine 32,000 miles from new, 1 previous family owner, All previous MOT's, Part service history, Factory hard top, Dry stored for many years, Excellent condition throughout. Sale due to new car arriving soon and need the garage space. £32,500 ono Dean Martin (Crayford) Tel: 01322 559918

01580 291222

or visit us online at:

Plate on retention £1500 ono

transfer now on SORN (Y50 OCL), Offers.

For everything Mercedes Benz R129 series and SL-Roadsters selected and guaranteed order hotline:

776 KUO Number Plate For Sale~ Y 500CL reg for immediate

Leading quality used parts specialist

R129.co

AG55 AMG PERFECT FOR A “55 AMG” Fan. On retention, £11,000

6 PRINCES STREET, BEXLEYHEATH DA7 4BQ Phone: 0208 301 3758 E-mail: enquiries@keysmercedes.co.uk www.keysmercedes.co.uk

Factory trained technicians Competitive rates

on certificate. Please Tel: Dietmar Post 01306 882027

Cherished 1990 230CE W124~ (Above) 160k miles, owned since 1998, one previous owner, FSH, drives well, electric sun roof and windows, MoT Dec 2017, good restoration project, £450 to good home. Tel: 0141 620 1022 (Glasgow)

Mercedes 240D Estate~ (above) Registered on 06/06/79. Been in family from new, 126,000 miles, yellow in good condition, 80000 on new engine and gear box all offers welcome. New MOT at point of sale. Alan Henderson 07521 904485 (Sutton Coldfield).

£5995. Tel: Andrew on 07715 122268 or Email: andrew@andrew-coulson.co.uk

Spares

Breaking

Mercedes Sports, Most Models.

Brand New 107 Bumpers Tel: 01322 669081 or Mob: 07836 250222

C Class and CLK Mercedes wheels • BRAND NEW TYRES • GOOD CONDITION

255/40/18 Price £275 ono

Please call: 07415 906208

48 48 »» Classifieds Specialist Directory

mercedesclub.org.uk

Breaking Mercedes Sports also breaking Mercedes Sport Pagoda 113 series. Tel: 01322 669081 or 07836 250222

Mercedes Wanted ~ CLK 320 CDI Auto, Black with Black leather interior, in good condition. Tel Ron Burney: 07860 251978

1993 M-B 190E handbook, original tool kit in wallet and plastic bag, accelerator cable, one front disk unused and MB front and rear mud flaps (suitable for a 1997 model). Tel: 01275 857646, location Nailsea nr Bristol.

WANTED

Europe’s Leading SL Specialist

Glass Panaramic hard top wanted~ for SL 129.

Tel: 01323 833088 or 07850 428281 (Hailsham)

Buy any product from The SL Shop Parts department this month and you could receive an SL Shop golf umbrella...

Wanted~ Convertible CLK 320 or 230 Kompressor 20002003. Tel: 07850 428281 or 01323 833088 (East Sussex)

urgently require First We 25 Orders Qualify For Free high quality SL Shop Golf Umbrella / 107 / R129) SL's (Pagoda

Wanted~ Front windscreens for both 3.5 280 and 6.3 modelsHow it works…If you are thinking of selling, (early 70's) good prices paid for the right part. Tel: 0208 640 Order over the phone on 01386 424622 or on the web at www.theslshop.com and quote the discount code SL02NEW5 in call the basket.us First 25 orders a will valuation. please for 5565 or Email: msims52@hotmail.co.uk (London) receive a free SL Shop umbrella.

Tel: 0800 612 0422

Call our parts team now on 01386 424622 or visit www.theslshop.com

Wanted~ 2 x 123 series 200 (1995- 1996) starter motor.

Tel: 07957 437190 Wanted~ 1 set of front mudflaps (all black) and fittings for a Mercedes 1993 190E. Tel: Mike on 01432 357439 (Herefordshire)

£200 Good condition Mercedes-Benz alloys from C Class (Above) 16"wheels and tyres (model A20444010202), One chip on one rim, Comes with Pirelli 225 / 50 R16 tyres. All good condition and legal. Sale due to larger AMG upgrade. Price is open to offers. 07563 559136

Service Kits

Wanted~ Mercedes-Benz workshop manual for my 1996 S500- W140 with 4,973 V-8 ENGINE. Tel Len on: 01566 86581 (Cornwall) S63 (Above) x2 front wings. x2 cill covers. x1 front facelift bumper. x1 back facelift bumper. All in excellent condition. £1200 for the lot. Ring Stan on 07931281411

E320 CABRIOLET Sportline, good history, low miles, cash buy, Tel: 01475 540232

Floorpans

Radiators

Cooling

Suspension

CHELSEA CARSMercedes Benz Shock Floorpan Floor Re-ManufacPanel Set tured Water Pump Absorber INTERNATIONAL Radiator WANTED SLs Rear Arch Repair Panel

Fits 350/450SL 107 Models

107 SL N/S Passenger Side

Fits SL 107 1971 - 1985

Fits 107 SL / SLC

SL 107 1172003801

107 SL / SLC 1263200931

WS0513

WS0174

WS0513

WS0682

WS0552

WS0040

£399.95 £79.94 £59.95 £360.00 We £44.94 have clients for all Mercedes SLs from 1960-present. Best prices given for good examples.

TELEPHONE Soft Top Car Covers Accessories SL 107 Wind SL Grey Mercedes Benz 0208 870 107 9977/8 +LÅLJ[VY Car Cover 380 SL 107 FAX 0181 877 1905

Burlwood

Interior

Chrome

Wood Gearstick Surround

Upper Seat Chrome Fits 107 SL

1971 - 1989

Re-Chromed N/S Rear Bumper

£159.95

£19.94

£199.50

107 SL / SLC 1986 - 1989

0

Wanted

Body Panels

£94.94

Wanted~ Any Mercedes models from 1960 to 1973, either cars or spares, barnfinds etc. Any condition considered.

Parts needed for restoration projects. Tel: 0208 640 5565 or Email: msims52@hotmail.co.uk (London)

Wanted

Four winter tyres on alloys for C180, 62 reg.~ (Above) Tyres 205/55R16 Continental Winter Contact. Approx 6mm tread on three, 8mm on one newer tyre. Wheels: 7Jx16H2ET43 alloys. One wheel has slight kerb scrape and tyre has slight wall damage. £200. Please ring 01797 280100 (near Rye, East Sussex)

Service

WS0127

WS0353

WS0001

Outdoor Breathable cover

Speedometer Watch

WS0014

WS0714

£109.50

£138.00

Wanted~ Front windscreens for both 3.5 280 and 6.3 models www.theslshop.com (early 70's) good prices paid for the right part. Tel: 0208 640 Call 01386 424622 or email parts@theslshop.com 5565 or Email: msims52@hotmail.co.uk (London)

SL/SLC 107

£240.00 WS0152

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advert2.indd 1

06/02/2014 11:02

Wanted~ Looking for all Mercedes models from 1960 to 1973 any condition considered.

Tel: 0208 640 5565 or 07951 386665 (London)

VERY URGENTLY TOP CASH PAID All Mercedes Sports, any year,

WANTED PAGODAS

any condition plus limousines, saloons, classics and convertibles. Instant decisions, we travel anywhere, we pay the most.

Instrument cluster for Mercedes 140 series, i.e. CL, SL, S vehicles.~ (Above) Refurbished by Actronics, Colchester.

Bills available. This item is no longer available from manufacturers. Contact: dskidmore@doctors.org.uk

280SL 1970 LHD 280SL 1969/H reg Light Metallic Blue/Blue Nappa Leather; Moss Green Metallic/Light Beige Tex; TRYING TO FIND MY LATE FATHER’S MERCEDESAutomatic/P.A.S; Hard & Soft Tops; Automatic/ P.A.S; Hard & Soft Tops; Fully Restored; 4300 Miles Since Rebuild Totally Original Example; Full Service BENZ~ (Above) Details the best I remember: MercedesHistory; 62,000 Miles Only Benz 1967 Silver RH drive 220SE or 250SE rregistration Tel: 020 8418 9191 Mob: 07836 522234 OLE???E. Any information would be very welcome. howard@howardwise.co.uk www.howardwisecars.co.uk Please text: 07971 237065

Tel: 01322 669081 or Mob: 07836 250222

Issue 320 | April 2018 | £3.50

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www.mercedesclub.org.uk www.mercedesclub.org.uk Issue 321 |

.uk club.org issue 245 | January 2012 | £3.50

ercedes

www.m

Mercedes-Benz Owners…

…for all things Mercedes

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Merce

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250SL 1967

May 201

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White/Red Tex Interior; Automatic/ P.A.S; Totally Original; Two Owners from New; A True Classic; 41,000 Miles Only

190SL ConvertibLe LHD 1956 Red/Blk Leather; Undergone Full Repaint and Fitted with New Carpet, New Hood & New Chromework; A Very Useable and Appreciating Classic

Tel: 020 8418 9191 Mob: 07836 522234 howard@howardwise.co.uk www.howardwisecars.co.uk SPORTS only

1000

r

horsepowe

CARS

AMG

GT Coup

HILL CLIMB memories

SEVEN MILES of finest racetrack

é

MERCEDES-BENT 190 SL

E-CLASS Coupé

Mercedes-Benz Owners…

A-CLAS

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New mode

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Mercedes

rewind

…for all things Mercedes

Want to sell your Mercedes?

Contact us!

We can promote your car in our monthly magazine, forum and social media site. www.forums.mercedesclub.org.uk

Tel: 01892 710570

Peter Jarvis Specialising in Mercedes-Benz + Classic Cars

Mercedes 280SL Sports Pagoda 1968 finished in brilliant Arctic White with superb contrasting interior, hard and soft tops, automatic, power steering, CD stereo system. This car is one of the finest we have ever seen having had thousands spent through its life keeping it to the highest standard as it is today, only used on summer days, only 58,000 miles from new, supplied with original handbook, various invoices, and most old Mot’s, original tool kit, it would be very difficult to find another one that comes close to the condition of this one, it’s simply amazing. £135,750.

Mercedes 250SL Pagoda sports 1968 finished in the breath taking colour scheme of light Silver Blue with darker Blue hard & soft tops, with light Beige hide interior and carpets, with over-mats, automatic, power steering, CD stereo system, full tool kit, lots of old Mot’s and history invoices, handbook, looks very similar to new, drives superb, garaged, This car is just remarkable. Please view our website for more detailed pictures you will be amazed. Fantastic investment and very fast appreciating in value don’t miss this one. £139,500

Mercedes sports 280SL 1983 finished in totally unmarked light peppermint green metallic, with light beige interior, which is just stunning, headrests, hard and soft tops, stereo system, power windows, alloys, over mats, factory fire extinguisher, tinted glass, automatic, power steering, twin spots, twin mirrors, complete with all tools, this car is one of the best we have ever seen it is just pristine through out, and drives like new, garaged from new, only 85,000 miles, and only two very care full owners with full history, plus many invoices and many old MOTs, properly the finest there is Superb investment. £29,750

Mercedes 1988 560SL Sports left hand drive, finished in the most delightful unmarked colour Impala Metallic, coded bumpers, with contrasting interior headrests, over mats, hard & soft tops, auto, power, first aid kit, cruise control, abs, power windows, light up vanity mirrors, air conditioning, air bags, tinted glass, centre armrest, outside temperature gauge, stereo & CD system, SRS, alloys, complete with all tools, 43,000 miles, two owners, garaged from new, service history, fast appreciating asset, probably the finest SL ever made, superb to drive, absolutely stunning. £38,500.

Mercedes 560SL Sports 1987 left drive, finished in gleaming signal red with beige hide interior, headrests, centre arm rest, hard and soft tops, this flag ship of the Mercedes SL’s, has power windows, tinted glass, stereo system, light up vanity mirrors, cruise control, air conditioning, power mirror, ABS, airbags. alloys, overmats, only 27,000 miles from new, with service history, only one owner, garaged and pampered from new. £46,750.

Mercedes 300SL 1992 finished in Astral silver with Dove Grey hide interior, rear seats, headrests, hard and soft tops, light up vanity mirrors, power windows, power hood, airbags, abs, alloys, stereo system, only 68,000 miles from new with full history, superb example £9,750.

Mercedes Sports 300SL 1987 finished in gleaming signal red, with soft black hide interior, hard & soft tops, headrests, stereo system, ABS brakes, auto, power steering, tinted glass, alloys, power windows, soft top never used, garaged and stored for many years, making this a very low miles of only 23,500 miles, with service book and old MOTs & invoices, plus every journey loged, this Mercedes could easily be mistaken for new. £55,750.

Mercedes sports 280SL pagoda 1968/9. Finished in unmarked gleaming silver with as new soft black hide interior, hard and soft tops, automatic, power steering, stereo system, special mercedes overmats, only 73,miles £1000s spent over the years to keep this garaged kept sports car in the magnificent condition it is in today. A folder full of invoices and old MOTs supplied with original handbook, complete with all tools. A breathtaking example. More pictures available on our website. £129,500.

Mercedes 420 SL sports 1989, personal reg number, finished in brilliant signal red, with superb interior, headrests, hard and soft tops, automatic, power steering, power windows, light up vanity mirrors, stereo system and CD, abs, alloys, tinted glass, non smokers car, complete with all tools, and Mercedes first aid kit, only 37,000 miles from new, with impeccable service history, plus service invoices, and almost every MOT since new, maintained to the highest standard, fitted with new stainless steel exhaust system, garaged from new, drives like new, one of the last of this model, totally superb. £55,750.

Mercedes 560 SL 1988 Left drive, finished in Astral Silver With Maroon hide interior, head rests, rear seats, hard & soft tops power mirrors, light up vanity mirrors, stereo system, outside temperature gauge, cruise control, automatic, power steering, superb walnut veneers, air bags, SRS, air conditioning, power windows, alloys, tinted glass, centre armrest, only two none smokers from new, and only 39,00 miles service history, never seen rain. This 560SL is properly one of the finest models ever made, drives like new, very similar to new. More pictures of this wonderful car on our website. £39,750.

Mercedes 420SL Sports 1989 one of the last of this model, finished in gleaming signal red with superb black hide interior, piped red seats, hard and soft top, tinted glass, power windows, auto, cd player, alloys, over mats, full service history. This car is just stunning, probably one of the finest £39,750.

Mercedes 230SL Sports 1966 finished in Porcelain White with as new Black hide interior, Auto, power steering, CD stereo system, hard and soft tops, known to us for many years, original service books and original handbook, entered in many events here in the UK and Europe, many old Mot’s, fitted stainless steel exhaust system, recent overhaul, extraordinary folder full of service history, drives superb, complete with all tools, over £10,000 spent in the last few years making this car probably one of the finest to be found. £89,750.

By appointment only Gildenhill Place, Gildenhill Rd, Swanley, Kent BR8 7PD Tel: 01322 669081 Mobile: 07836 250222 www.peterjarvis.net

50 » 25 years of the Smart

mercedesclub.org.uk

The smart family: Adding a new shine to a proven concept

S

hort overhangs, a minimal length and a high steering angle are optimal prerequisites for ensuring that the smart models get around every corner and into every parking space. When it comes to the turning circle, the smart fortwo has set a new benchmark: at 6.95 m (from kerb to kerb) and 7.30 m (from wall to wall) it makes turning manoeuvres extremely simple. The characteristic proportions offer excellent visibility and manoeuvrability and, together with the rear engine, enable a passenger cell to be realised with an unrivalled amount of space for such compact dimensions.

The third smart generation, introduced in 2014, is characterised by a one-and-a-half box design – an evolutionary development of the typical smart silhouette. The higher bonnet lends the smart a more grown-up and sportier character. The colour contrast between the tridion safety cell and body panels is another characteristic feature of the smart brand.

The smart displays a friendly but self-assured face. A decisive feature of this friendly face is the signature smart grille with the large logo.

The grille's perforated structure results from a honeycomb pattern.

The honeycomb features a fading effect and becomes paler towards the outside. The rhombic front lamps are truncated slightly at the top, producing an attractive sporty look. The U-shaped daytime driving lights add a characteristic design feature. In combination with the LED & Sensor package, the headlamps incorporate a welcome function: when the car is unlocked, the light in the headlamps pulsates, as if the smart were welcoming its owner.

"Loop" is the designers' name for the emotional sweep that features as a leitmotif in the interior, embellishing the dashboard and doors, for example. The sculptural dashboard itself consists of two sections – an outer section which can optionally be covered with fabric, and a large, concave inner section incorporating the functional elements. In front of the dashboard, the instrument cluster and the infotainment centre with radio/navigation appear to hover as added elements. The dashboard

and the door centre panels in the three lines feature extensive fabric coverings. This high-quality textile surface is pleasant to the touch and is reminiscent of the mesh inserts in modern sports shoes. The colour and material concept underscores the easy-going and charming character of the current smart generation.

The safety philosophy: "Real-life safety" The essential safety concept embodied so successfully by the preceding models has been retained. Like a nut, the interior is protected from harm by a rigid shell: the tridion safety cell. There is a high proportion of ultra-high-strength hot-formed steels and maximum-strength multiphase steel. In keeping with the Mercedes-Benz "real-life safety" philosophy, the focus in car-to-car crash tests was on compatibility with substantially larger and heavier vehicles. The smart fortwo stood up to a head-on collision with the S-Class, for example. The battery of the electric smart is housed centrally under the front seats – ideal for a low centre of gravity and balanced handling. It is supported by an all-round crashabsorbing frame. The frame structure consists of high-strength steel tubes that give the battery all-round protection via the employed profiles and additionally serve to absorb and distribute intrusion forces in the event of an accident.

Assistance systems further enhance safety and comfort. These include Crosswind Assist (standard) and Lane Keeping Assist (option). The electricpowered smart models also have Active Brake Assist as a standard feature. A front axle design adopting elements from the former Mercedes-Benz C Class, a De Dion rear axle, long spring travel all round and an unprecedented small turning circle are the highlights of the chassis.

Smart fortwo cabrio: unique flexibility Three cars in one: at the touch of a button the smart fortwo cabrio is transformed from a closed two-seater into a car with a large sliding canvas sunroof, or a fully-fledged cabriolet with the soft top completely open. This

enables the fresh air driving experience to be adapted to the weather or the driver's mood. This flexibility offered by the "tritop" folding soft top and the removable roof bars is a special feature – and not just in this segment. At the same time, the smart fortwo cabrio is the only true cabrio in its vehicle class – and as the smart EQ fortwo cabrio one of the few electrically powered cabrios.

The smart fortwo cabrio (length/width/height: 2.69/1.66/1.55 m) is clearly recognisable as a member of the current smart generation: the third model also embodies the smart design philosophy of FUN.ctional design. The design idiom is clear, purist and progressive. This includes the typical profile with ultra-short overhangs, the clear lines, shapes and surfaces and, of course, the tridion safety cell. With the grille in a fading honeycomb design and the rhombic headlamps, the face is unmistakably smart. The B-pillar is narrower than on the closed variant and the styling of the tridion safety cell is more progressive, giving the smart fortwo cabrio a sportier and more forward-focused look.

Smart forfour: variable four-seater The smart forfour (length/width/height: 3.49/1.66/1.55 m) shares many of its design features with the smart fortwo. The typical smart genes are thus recognisable from afar on the road: the striking door contours and the unique tridion cell. A characteristic swage line, such as is featured in the middle of the doors, underscores the brand image. The side view of the smart forfour reveals the same elements as the fortwo, but has a longer tridion cell as well as the additional door. The front and rear overhangs appear just as short as on the fortwo. The forfour's roof line slopes downward towards the rear in coupé style.

The smart forfour naturally offers the larger luggage compartment. The rear seat backrests can be folded down to produce a level load surface measuring 1285 x 996 mm with a cargo volume of up to 975 litres – the benchmark in its segment. When the front passenger seat backrest is folded forward, the loading length stands at 2.22 metres. In addition, reversible cushions are optionally available for the rear seats in the forfour. The "readyspace" seats in the rear can be turned around and lowered substantially in next to no time to produce 12 cm more loading height inside, which is very simple to make use of thanks to the rear doors which open to an angle of almost 90 degrees.