At the same time the combination of the letters “SL” became a phenomenon. As an abbreviation of “super” and “light” it had originally merely been intended to differentiate between the 300 and 300 S models, but it soon took on a charismatic shine. The forefather of the race track was followed by the first descendant available for purchase in 1954: the 300 SL series-production sports car (W 198), which achieved equal renown and was known as the “gullwing” model on account of its unusual doors. Ever since, the two letters have stood for unique cars, for legendary sports cars. The irresistible design, the superb engineering and the virtually unlimited motoring pleasure they bring have bestowed on the Mercedes-Benz SL an aura which has elevated all the models created since 1954 to the status of classic, one after the other. Amongst automotive enthusiasts they are highly sought-after collectors’ vehicles and pass on their special status from generation to generation. It is no wonder, then, that the 300 SL gullwing model was voted “Sports Car of the Century” by a jury consisting of motoring journalists in 1999.
To mark its sixtieth birthday, Mercedes-Benz has completely assembled the 1952 racing car with the vehicle identification number 2 again – true to its original state and in such a way that it is ready to drive. Countless hours of work, a great deal of sweat and know-how have been invested by the specialists at Mercedes-Benz Classic in the car’s restoration. In so doing they went to enormous lengths to ensure that the vehicle was not “over-restored” and that instead it would retain its individual patina which makes its unique character shine. On the occasion of the unveiling of the new SL, the forefather – bathed in authentic splendour – was also presented to the public and demonstrated the fountainhead of the SL legend. In this juxtaposition the two SL models from 1952 and 2012 represented the entire spectrum of the SL legend – spanning from its origins right through to the current pinnacle.
But 60 years ago it was not just the SL bloodline that was born; at the same time the foundations for the entire Mercedes-Benz sports car family were laid – and today, encompassing the SL, the SLK and the SLS AMG, it is more strongly differentiated than ever before. Even back in the 1950s, when the successful racing car evolved into a series-production car available for purchase, Mercedes-Benz offered not just the decidedly sporty 300 SL “Gullwing” but a second SL model, too: the less powerful yet equally fascinating 190 SL, which, in its capacity as the “little brother” of the gullwing model, opened up the opportunity to experience the SL legend to a larger circle of customers.
In the present day the 190 SL is often regarded as the predecessor of the compact SLK, whilst the 300 SL gullwing model with its characteristic doors and its outstanding performance potential is widely perceived as the ancestor of the SLS AMG. Both models, the 300 SL and the 190 SL, are, however, first and foremost precisely what is revealed by the model lettering on the boot lid: the roots of the legendary SL ancestral line, which stands for refined sportiness like no other has done for over six decades now.
The cars in this model series were created with their own unique characteristics because their time had come, because Mercedes-Benz was meeting its customers’ requirements. This also applies to the subsequent SL generations – each one reflects the spirit of its day and the wishes and desires of their buyers. The sales success of every single SL generation proves Mercedes-Benz has always built the SL which was best suited to its time – having said that, they generally tended to be somewhat ahead of their time in Stuttgart, setting new trends. This is why comfort, which, alongside sportiness, can be seen as the inherent discipline of the SL models, became an indispensable part of the SL philosophy very early on. Further hallmark SL characteristics spanning the generations include superior performance, technical innovations and, of course, an exciting, often surprising, design which always finds new ways of succinctly expressing the high emotional appeal of the SL models.
1954 – 1963: W 198 – the legend enters series production
Without a doubt the 300 SL racing car of 1952 was the primal concept. With an enhanced design and boasting refined ride comfort in spite of its higher output, it was continued as a series-production sports car. In 1954 the 300 SL gullwing model embarked on an incomparable triumphal procession. Alongside the gullwing doors, its other characteristic features were the filigree space frame familiar from the racing car and also the first four-stroke engine with petrol injection in a series-production passenger car. It had an output which was sensational in its day: 215 hp from a displacement of three litres. From 1957 the 300 SL was then built exclusively as an open-top version.
An open-top model right from the outset, the 190 SL was presented to the public at the same time as the 300 SL. Its roots lay in proven series-production technology rather than in the world of racing. Yet this did not impact on the fascination surrounding the vehicle – on the contrary: that special SL feel was now available for a significantly larger group of buyers to experience. In eight years nearly 26,000 vehicles found proud owners.
“The 300 SL belongs to the genus of cars which challenge their drivers and at the same time give them enormous driving pleasure.”
Juan Manuel Fangio, five times Formula 1 world champion
1963 – 1971: W 113 – the “Pagoda”
In the spring of 1963, when Mercedes-Benz ceased production of the 300 SL and 190 SL, the joint successor was an SL model which caused a furore – above all because of its unusual exterior. As well as the fresh, new lines, the dominating design feature was a removable coupé roof, which sloped down to the centre of the vehicle. This was unique, and reminiscent of Far Eastern temple architecture, resulting in this SL being referred to colloquially as the “Pagoda”.
“In the many years I have been driving, I cannot remember wanting to own any car I have ever driven (with the exception of racing cars!) as much as this one.”
Formula 1 racing driver and Mille Miglia winner Stirling Moss in a letter to
the Head of Racing, Alfred Neubauer
1971 – 1989: R 107 – the evergreen
In 1971, the “Pagoda” model was then followed by an SL model series which was destined to be built for 18 years. The advanced styling of this classic ensured that it has continued to look contemporary to this day. Known internally as the R 107, this roadster’s combination of distinctive curves and clean, frill-free lines still gives it a handsome and iconic appearance.
The R 107 was the first SL generation to be characterised by a large variety of models. During its long construction period, it was available, for instance, with engines from the 2.8-litre six-cylinder in-line engine to the 5.6-litre V8. Over a long period of time the customer was able to choose from three engines. And the R 107 set new standards in safety with its high safety reserves and numerous innovative, detailed solutions.
“It’s powerful, yet not ostentatious. It simply oozes superiority and masculinity.”
Hans Hermann, Formula-1 racing driver and Le-Mans winner
1989 – 2001: R 129 – the sculpture with style
In 1989 the last of 237,287 SL Roadsters of the model series R 107 rolled off the assembly line in Sindelfingen, to be succeeded by the SL model series known internally as the R 129. Its defining wedge shape immediately found popularity, radiating taste and style. Today it is thought of as an automotive sculpture.
In addition to design quality of the highest calibre and maximum open-air motoring pleasure, this SL offered occupant protection on an uncompromisingly high level. Its safety features included, for example, a roll-over bar which automatically extends in critical situations and – for the first time anywhere in the world – what is known as an integral seat with a three-point seat belt integrated into the seat. The R 129 also raised the bar when it came to its engine line-up – featuring units with up to twelve cylinders – and its driving characteristics.
“I bought the SL because I believe it to be the finest car in the world.”
José Carreras, star tenor and automotive enthusiast
2001 – 2012: R 230 – a stylish synthesis of tradition and modernity
With a stylistically fascinating and technically discerning sports car in the model series R 230, Mercedes-Benz continued the long SL tradition in the autumn of 2001. It was the first SL to be fitted with a vario-roof. The innovative roof construction, which transforms the two-seater roadster into a weatherproof coupé (or vice versa) within a few seconds, was launched by Mercedes-Benz in 1996 in the first-generation SLK, and enhanced for the SL. The R 230 also offers the active suspension system Active Body Control (ABC), a unique package comprising state-of-the art electronic control systems and optimised occupant protection. But the R 230 also stands for new performance dimensions and outstanding sportiness: as the SL 55 AMG, which was used in 2001 and 2002 as the official Safety Car in Formula 1, it exceeds the 368 kW/500 hp mark. When it was unveiled in 2004, the SL 65 AMG was no less than the most torquey roadster in the world, and in 2008 and 2009 the R 230 once again took on the role of the Formula 1 Safety Car – this time as the SL 63 AMG.
"With regard to the balancing act between comfort and sportiness, the SL is now setting new benchmarks"
Wolfgang König, automotive journalist in the 2001 road test
As of 2012: R 231 – athlete and aesthete
The new SL is now taking on the original SL, as demonstrated objectively by its performance data and subjectively by its driving feel. Along with the S-Class and the E-Class, the SL belongs to the Mercedes-Benz model series with the longest tradition. And like virtually no other vehicle class from Mercedes-Benz it stands for fascination and emotion.
Credits: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
An SL Retrospect Spanning Six Decades Marked with Support for Film Restoration During Academy Awards Season
Hollywood's love affair with motion is not exclusive to pictures, but also with the wheels belonging to the iconic Mercedes-Benz SL, which has played a role in over 150 movies and television programs in its lifespan not to mention fame on studio lots and the streets of Tinseltown.
The legendary SL, for a span of six decades, continues to be one of most iconic and desired cars in Hollywood. Its first role was garnered in the late 1950s and now has reinvented itself with a complete redesign for 2013. Each model of the SL franchise over its 60 year history has made multiple appearances on the silver screen starring in many notable films like High Society with Grace Kelly, Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby and The Rookie with Clint Eastwood.
This Academy Awards season, Mercedes-Benz is commemorating the SL anniversary by supporting film restoration through a contribution to The Film Foundation (www.film-foundation.org) in addition to creating an SL vehicle retrospective and an exclusive reveal of the 2013 SL to be seen by those attending Mercedes-Benz annual invite-only Oscar viewing party at the Soho House in West Hollywood.
"We're grateful to Mercedes-Benz for its support of The Film Foundation," said Executive Director Margaret Bodde. "The foundation is committed to restoring and preserving as many films as possible. We want to make sure that movies, which are such an essential part of our cultural heritage, are still around for people to enjoy -- not just today, but far into the future."
Between 1958 and 1975, the SL Roadster made 53 appearances in feature films and television programs that starred many of Hollywood's most talented actors and actresses such as Ava Gardiner and Fred Astaire. Beyond the earlier decades, the SL appeared in cult hits like Beverly Hills Cop, Cannon Ball Run and The Flamingo Kid.
"Classic films are similar to vintage cars in that they are a window into the past, whether communicating society's aspirations or people's style and taste during that era," said Michael Kunz, manager of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine California. "Restoring Mercedes-Benz vehicles is part of our DNA and we take great personal pride and determination in helping keep thousands of Mercedes-Benz classic cars on the road today and true to their originality."
Credits: Mercedes-Benz USA
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
Before the new Mercedes-Benz SL is launched during spring 2012, a special exhibition dedicated to the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class family is opened beginning Tuesday, 24th January 2012. The exhibition "Timeless - 60 Years of Mercedes-Benz SL" presents the automotive icons release in the six decades of existence - for the first time brought together in one room.
"No other model embodies athleticism and aesthetics as brilliant as the SL - and that for 60 years. The first SL-series today still triggers the same enthusiasm and desire like in 1952 ", says Michael Bock, Head of Mercedes-Benz Classic. "For many of our visitors, the SL is synonymous with Mercedes-Benz, and we are pleased that today we meet the desire of our visitors: the SL family shown together in one exhibition space."
In the 1950s, a very special star was born in Stuttgart: The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. In the beginning, everything revolved around motorsport. The 300 SL racing sports car (W 194 series, the acronym stands for "super light") was premiered in 1952 as the Gullwing Coupe and Roadster. Its successes in international competitions ignited the spark for the emergence of two series of fascinating cars designed for clients: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL and 190 SL in 1954 explain the tradition of the legendary sports car family.
For the first time, "Timeless - 60 Years of Mercedes-Benz SL" shows this entire sports car family, including the 300 SL racing car (W 194) - the legendary winner of the Carrera Panamericana race in 1952, the 190 SL (W 121) of U.S. astronaut David R. Scott in 1958, the 230 SL (W 113) driven by Eugen Böhringer in the 1963 Liege-Sofia-Liege rally, the SL 55 AMG (R 230), which was the official Safety Car of the 2001 Formula 1 season, and also the newest SL (R 231).
The exhibition consists of an extensive program with guided tours and special events. Further information is available at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center and online at www.mercedes-benz-classic.com/sl .
Credits: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL of 1952: Number two lives on
The origins of the SL class are rooted in motor racing: in the early 1950s, Mercedes-Benz developed the 300 SL racing car (model series W 194). This, the grandfather of all SLs, undertook its initial test drives in November 1951 on the Solitude circuit just outside Stuttgart, as well as on the Nürburgring and the Hockenheimring. The vehicle was introduced to an awestruck press on 12 March 1952, on the autobahn between Stuttgart and Heilbronn.
The 1952 racing season was to prove an exceptionally successful one for Mercedes-Benz, as a look at the results of the 300 SL's various appearances reveals: second and fourth places in the Mille Miglia, a threefold victory in the "Prix de Berne" sports car race, double victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, fourfold victory in the Nürburgring Anniversary Sports Car Grand Prix and a double victory in the 3rd Carrera Panamericana in Mexico. The brand had made its return to motor racing with a true flourish, while the continuing advertising impact ensured it was firmly back on the international scene.
Restoration of the 300 SL with chassis number 2
The first 300 SL no long exists, having been scrapped during its time with the company. However, the second car to be built, with the chassis number 194 010 00002/52, is still with us and has been in company ownership since it was built in the racing workshops in 1951/52. This oldest existing SL has now been painstakingly restored to mark the anniversary of "60 years of the SL", which will be celebrated in 2012. This involved the vehicle being completely dismantled at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Centre in Fellbach, near Stuttgart, then every single component meticulously examined and, where necessary, restored according to the very highest standards of authenticity and quality. The clear remit was to retain the substance in every respect. The second 300 SL (W 194) ever to be built is now therefore revealed in new splendour – yet continues to bear with pride the traces of its long and thrilling life.
The restoration of the bodywork was a particularly tricky process, as it is made out of extremely fine aluminium/magnesium sheet metal which, by its very nature, is extremely delicate. Time had also taken its toll on it in many places. It took the specialists around six months to bring the body shell of the oldest SL in the world still in existence back to its former glory. The restoration of the vehicle lasted ten months in all, which, in view of the extensive work involved, represented a very tight schedule.
All the effort was well worthwhile, though. When the engine of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, which bears the original registration plate "W59-4029", is started up once again and the vehicle quickly picks up speed, it is easy to believe that it can still manage a top speed of 230 km/h and that this is the car that enjoyed one of the most successful sports careers of the 1950s.
Like the phoenix rising from the ashes: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194)
The first motor racing vehicle to be produced by Mercedes-Benz after the end of the Second World War appeared at a time when Europe still lay in ruins. On 15 June 1951 the Board of Management resolved to participate in motor racing once again from the 1952 season and commissioned the production of the "300 SL Super-Light", as the new car was initially known. The suffix was later shortened to the simple letters SL – so giving rise to the model designation 300 SL. Its M 194 engine was derived from the engine used in the Mercedes-Benz 300 prestige saloon, also known as the "Adenauer Mercedes". For its use in the racing car, the engineers increased the output to around 170 hp (125 kW). The racing engine, equipped with dry sump lubrication, is canted at an angle of 50 degrees to the left.
The body of this first SL preempts certain elements of the later series-production sports car model. Among these are the low bonnet of the pre-war racing cars, with a Mercedes star mounted on the grille of the cooling air intake. The famous swing-wing doors are a characteristic feature of the Coupé: they are cut deep into the roof, open upwards and were originally conceived purely as access hatches that opened only as far as the beltline. During preparations for the "24 Hours of Le Mans" the door openings were enlarged, giving the even more pronounced effect of extended wings. This led to the car being nicknamed the "Gullwing" by the Americans and "Papillon" (Butterfly) by the French. In two races the 300 SL appeared with a Roadster body rather than as a "Gullwing" model.
Lightweight construction was one of the key priorities for the 300 SL. Wherever possible, efforts were made to save weight - the body shell is made out of sheet aluminium/magnesium, some of the mechanical components of aluminium or magnesium, while various parts are bored to make them lighter. Another way of improving competitiveness was to make the body as aerodynamic as possible. Rudolf Uhlenhaut, who was the head of passenger car testing at Daimler-Benz at that time, developed a special framework for the W 194, weighing just 50 kilograms. This is made out of very fine, high-alloy steel tubes designed to absorb tensile and compression forces.
The interior is panelled throughout and, unusually for a racing car, exudes an air of comfort. Speedometer and rev counter are perfectly positioned in the driver's field of vision, with the smaller instruments for water temperature, petrol pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure, as well as the car's original stopwatch, located below them. The well-contoured, bucket-type seats are upholstered in tartan woollen cloth, while the four-spoke steering wheel can be removed to make getting in and out of the car easier.
A total of ten W 194 vehicles were built for the 1952 season. A successor model was also developed in readiness for the following year which, as the eleventh SL to be built, is also known as the W 194/11. It never did race in the 1953 season, however. From 1954 onwards Mercedes-Benz competed in Formula 1 racing, while the W 194 was developed further to become the 300 SL series-production sports car (W 198). The series-production vehicle became the dream sports car of the 1950s, going on to be awarded the accolade of "Sports car of the century" in 1999.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (model series W 194)
- Year of construction: 1952
- Units built: 10
- Engine: six-cylinder in-line engine, overhead camshaft, three Solex twin carburettors, dry sump lubrication
- Displacement: 2995 cc
- Output: 170 hp (125 kW) at 5200 rpm
- Kerb weight: approx 1060 kg
- Top speed: 230 km/h
Credits: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
