ome
see the world's best example of a "reverse" automobile factory. On Saturday, November 15, Potomac German Auto will allow us to tour the largest recycling facility in the country devoted exclusively to Mercedes-Benz and European automobiles.
Come see and learn about the orderly, clean, and environmentally focussed dismantling operation; as well as, the inventory and distribution process. Find out about the special arrangements with Mercedes-Benz that allows Potomac German to provide surplus OEM parts. This is a rare opportunity for a behind the scenes look at a unique, first class operation.
The tour will be conducted from 10:00AM to noon at their Frederick, Maryland location. Light refreshments will be provided. The cost is $10 per person.
Mark your calendar now, fill out the centerfold registration form and mail it today. If you have questions, please contact Steve Walters at 703-765-9405.
Directions: Take I-270 north. Get off at exit 31B which is Route 85 south. Travel two and a half miles and make a right on Lime Kiln Road. Cross the railroad tracks. Then enter Potomac German Auto there.
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December 7, the section will host a New Member's Reception at Mercedes-Benz of Alexandria. We will be sending invitation postcards to all members who joined between September 1, 2002 and September 30, 2003.
Although there is no fee for this event, all attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for the Salvation Army's holiday toy drive. Can't make the event? Want to help even though you cannot join us? Send a check to Treasurer Jim Glenn, payable to GWS-MBCA, and we'll get it to the Salvation Army.
Calendar of Events
Greater Washington Section Events
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ri-O-Rama
2003 is now one more national MBCA event for the history books and the drivers' performance results are in the record books. Ninety-three members from all over the country met in Danville, Virginia for four days of driving, car showing, eating, and socializing. Virginia International Raceway - home of all the track events - was just plain fantastic. Even the unused airport runway where we held the autocross and defensive driving school was just perfect.
How many more of these great events will you let pass by? You can't just mark them down on your calendar and then not commit to actually come out. Life is too short!
You've seen the tee shirts and bumper stickers... Life is too short to drink cheap wine, and Life is too short to drive a Camry, and Life is too short to spend it in Xxxxx (insert the state or town of your choice - the sticker I saw had Texas as the target).
Please plan on joining us at an event soon. We try to vary them so that there will be something for every one of you.
President's Message
Winter Readiness
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the doldrums of winter coming on, it's time to make sure your car(s) is(are) ready. Have the coolant checked. Put the snow tires on and have a few emergency goodies in the trunk. A flashlight is a must! Jumper cables are a good idea. A small bag of sand or kitty litter will help you get traction on really slick surfaces. Road triangles or flares will help other drivers see you if your car is disabled. Don't forget your cell phone! A blanket is always a good item to have in the trunk. A small tool kit (if the factory kit isn't already there) takes up very little room but will allow you to make minor repairs. Carry a few extra light bulbs for your car - the part numbers for the various lights should be in your manual. Have extra fuses in the tool kit or in your glove box. Toss in a pair of warm work gloves. If there's room, put a small folding shovel in the trunk.
If you're going on a long trip, make sure you carry some bottled water and snacks. And, include some energy bars in the snack bag.
And, if you have a real problem with your car, there is this from the Mercedes-Benz USA web site:
With 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES (1-800-367-6372) you are only a phone call away from 24-hour Roadside Assistance, Sign and Drive services (a free jump-start, flat tire change with your existing spare, or some fuel for an empty tank), Trip Interruption and trip routing, product and technical information or anything else related to your Mercedes-Benz.
Happy winter motoring!
| Joe |
ASC DIY Tech Session
Sets New Standard!
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August 23, American Service Center of Arlington hosted a Do-It-Yourself Tech Session for the Greater Washington Section. Many of the attendees, who were overcome by the fantastic opportunity ASC afforded us, hailed this event as the best event ever. I would not dispute that.
It was no surprise that club members arrived early to line up their cars; awaiting the chance to use a vehicle lift and get expert advice when the doors opened at 8:00AM. But what really amazed all of us was that the ASC staff, organized by shop foremen Marc Cruz and Jack Rolo, was so enthusiastic that they had all the waiting cars on lifts by the scheduled door opening time. And things only got better. With the ASC parts department opened for our exclusive use, we were ready to get down to the business of having fun with our cars.
This event was a family affair, too. John Sherman and his sons, John and Scott, triple teamed a set of E-Class vehicles. Ted Starr and his son, Andrew, refreshed the fluids on their 300SE, while the dynamic duo, Bill and Debbie Repass, did the same on their 280 SE 4.5. Bruce and Judy Roth brought a pair of fast cars for brake fluid changes. Martha Guptill provided moral support as her husband Bill worked on his 300D.
When our members wearied from their labors, Linda Narirn and Linda Snyder provided coffee and bagels in the morning and sandwiches and sodas at midday to restore us.
The "whoops, how did that happen" award goes to Steve DiGirolamo. Steve had the pistons in a front brake caliper of his 380SL freeze as he was changing brake discs and pads. Half a dozen ASC techs swarmed around his car and had things back to normal in no time. Mitch Blanchard deserves special recognition for changing the oil in his 190E while wearing street clothes. No runs, no drips, no errors...that's a real Mercedes mechanic.
ASC technicians Javier Wetzell and Ben Hutchinson also helped members prepare their cars for Tri-O-Rama by providing pre-event safety inspections. It doesn't seem possible for an owner to get a more thorough, detailed and accurate assessment of their car's condition than what these two experts provided.
The event also provided an opportunity for owner of vintage cars to share their knowledge. Michael Egan's 230SL, Bill Gallagher's 280SL and Ron Parker's 280SL were compared and contrasted. Use of the lifts provided an excellent opportunity to see things otherwise quite inaccessible.
ASC really did provide a fantastic opportunity for the Greater Washington Section. We had access to 18 expert Mercedes technicians, 6 parts specialists and 3 dozen lifts until we exhausted ourselves (or our to-do lists).
Most notable of all was the attitude of the ASC staff. You couldn't find a more competent, helpful and enthusiastic group of people, which prompted several club members to remark, "they're having as much fun as we are." That's a fitting tribute to a group of people who could make us feel so welcome while they were giving up a day off to help us.
| Steve Walters |
pylon alley by Tom Newman
Autocross #5 - Reversal of Fortune
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last event held true to the title given to the course. Many, many surprises and upsets. The course was laid out differently than what most were accustomed to seeing at WSSC. Instead of using the square end of the lot, the first portion of the course dog-legged to the left and used the long straight where a decreasing slalom kept drivers on their toes. The course continued into a series of chicanes and ultimately finished with a single cone into stop. The rain gods were grumbling and many an eye was cast skyward in the fear that the bottom was going to fall out at any time. However, being stalwart autocrossers, we pressed on with the event.
Bruce Roth returned to claim top Benz honors with a blistering 43.9 second run. Still maintaining his grip on the 16-Valve class, Bill Stewart remained at the pinnacle. The heat was on in the Vintage class. Never have I seen these folks duke it out like this. Everyone was pushing machines to the absolute limit. The result was our first upset... Klaus Hirtes took the Vintage class by almost 2 seconds. The smaller more nimble SL proved once again that it is not always about the ponies.
Was that a squeak? Yes, I do believe it was. The sound you just heard was Ted Joseph barely edging Denise Dersin in the CLK class. Over the course of the season, Denise has steadily closed on Ted's fastest times. Anyone want to take any bets on when she catches him?
More trivia for you to ponder. What has a broken leg, a mangled arm, shock blond hair and can drive the wheels off of anything? Bigfoot in an SLR is incorrect. The correct answer is Bill Brochu. After a couple of months in hiding, Bill and Angie Brochu returned to claim top honors in the non-Benz classes. I'd hate to think of what Bill can do when he's healthy! Seriously, next time come out with your pieces and parts all in order. We prefer you healthy Bill.
Fastest non-Benz time of the day goes once again to Gonzalo Puig. Of course, his usual competition made a drastic error. It was yet another "reversal of fortune." Marty Gallagher was banking on the rain coming. So, he left his competition tires at home. The mighty snake hath fallen. Nipping at both Gonzalo and Bill's heels was yours truly who finally bested his Dad (Harry Newman) and took second place.
The day was not complete without some gymnastics. Alex Milenkovic has a new toy, a BMW M3. Who knew the M3 was capable of such loud and smoky spinning as cone after cone dodged out of the way as Alex spun down the straight. The judges scored 7.4, 8.5, 3.0 (the Russian judge), 9.3, and an 8.4.
Dana Argiro scored her first LFTD of the year in her limited edition Audi TT. Great run. Sharon Payne returned to autocross after a four-year absence. She did very well picking the course up until it was as familiar as riding a bike.
All in all, a great day. Not just the driving, but the eats! The registration table was filled with Dunkin Donuts, coffee, pastries, and all manner of things guaranteed to expand your waistline. Barrie Gochman provided way yummy chocolate treats while I (and others) flipped burgers and dogs on a portable grill. I do believe this has become a trend. So, all are encouraged to bring goodies. No wait... then it would be a picnic not an autocross.
Thanks to all who came out to play. Next month - "Sands Through the Hourglass."
Annual Picnic and Mid-Atlantic Concours
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was the best of times, it was the wurst of times... a most remarkable day. Imagine leaving the traffic and congestion of the city and arriving at a clearing in the forest. Nothing in view but trees and a freshly mowed green field. Slowly, as the warmth of the sun chases the dew from the grass, one glistening Mercedes after another arrives and takes a spot on the lawn. The quiet of the country setting is replaced by the voices of friends re-united. The grill is lit, the first beer is opened, and well over 200 club members begin a really fine day.
Our very gracious and generous hosts, Hank and Catherine Harris, made their estate available to us again this year, and we made the most of the opportunity. It was the best attendance by club members and the best collection of Concours cars in recent memory. And thanks to the thoughtfulness of those attending, more than $700 was contributed for charity through both the silent auction and bar tips.
But beyond all that, the most notable part of this most remarkable picnic was the manner in which we all pulled together in the face of adversity. After seemingly endless poking, prodding and relighting, the rented barbecue grill was still colder than the beer. Our intrepid Vice President, Harry Newmann, took off on a "quest for fire," and returned with a couple of grills that our cooks Tom and Mary Kestel and Klaus and Debbie Hirtes could actually use. The patience of the attendees (who had to rely on the bar for sustenance until the burgers and wurst were finally ready) was greatly appreciated.
Special thanks go to Judy Roth our registrar, Bobbie Wozney who ran the silent auction and the club store, bartenders Joe Wozney and Tom Newmann, our cooks Mary and Tom Kestel and Debbie and Klaus Hirtes, and especially the concours judges (Chief Judge Bruce Roth, Al Angulo, Tim Brishler, Greg Calabro, Mark Elie, Dick Gentz, Tracee Glass, Tom Heacock, Mark Lacoverna, Bill and Debbie Repass, Judy Roth, and Marianne Sener) whose entire day revolved around cleanliness and authenticity. Thanks again from all of us to Hank and Catherine for letting us share their estate for the day.
And, thanks to Radial Tire for graciously sponsoring the picnic and Concours!
| Steve Walters |
| Show Class | ||
| Best of Show | Dick Gentz | 1991 500 SL |
| Second Place | Frank Spellman | 1960 300 SL Roadster |
| Judges Choice | Holly and Todd Jenkins | 1957 300SL Roadster |
| Street Class | ||
| Best of Street | Valerie and Joe Christano | 1973 450SE |
| SLs | ||
| First Place | Fred Perry | 1991 500 SL |
| Second Place | Robby Ackerman | 1960 190 SL |
| Third Place | Claude Bixler | 1990 300 SL |
| 1990 and newer sedans | ||
| First Place | William Canfield | 1990 420SEL |
| Second Place | Lou Olson | 2001 E430 |
| Third Place | Walter Wray | 1994 E500 |
| Older sedans | ||
| First Place | Bob Platz | 1963 300SE Cabriolet |
| Second Place | Chris Mangold | 1970 300SEL 6.3 |
| Third Place | Ellen Ruck | 1988190E 2.6 |
| Peoples Choice | ||
| Best of People's Choice | Dottie & Martin Stickley | 1972 280 SE |
| First Place | Tracee Glass | 1989 560 SL |
| Second Place | Mark Elie | 1992 500E |
| Third Place | Greg Calabro | 2003 SL 500 |
Mercedes-Only Autocross and Defensive Driving School
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year, the section hosts a defensive driving course for members and their new teenage drivers. The course is designed to teach basic vehicle control, accident avoidance, and threshold braking techniques.
It has also become tradition that we hold an autocross after the defensive driving course. This allows the students to put to use their newly learned skills to the test. The metric is the autocross time. With each improvement, the techniques taught begin to take root. It is a very satisfying experience to see new drivers lose their hesitation, gain some confidence, and put into practice skills that veteran drivers and autocrossers now call instinctual.
The day started with a brief tutorial of what to expect and an introduction of the club's instructors. There was a lot of enthusiasm in the group gathered. Most could hardly wait to give the course a go. However, a few of the younger drivers had that "Dad made me do it" look about them. That would quickly change... "Class" was quickly called to order and the cars lined up. The first time out, most were hesitant - not unlike pups leaving the den, strange and new experiences to explore for all. (However, the afternoon session would provide a few wolves.) With each successive run, you could see improvement and the trepidation disappear.
A particular favorite of the participants was the slalom that led into the accident avoidance obstacle. Most were surprised that their vehicles could react to avoid the obstacle. Moreover, a few surprised themselves. "Hey, that really works!"
We modified the course into a basic autocross to let the drivers stretch their legs and measure their performance. It was a rare opportunity for our Mercedes-Benz drivers to compete without "foreign car" intervention. The only exception was that teens were allowed to drive the car they would normally use.
Bill and Debbie Repass finally brought out the E55 to play and put it through its paces. Man what an impressive car. Bill Stewart proved again that he is a very capable driver even without his trusty 16-Valve. He took top honors for the E-Class cars. Ted Joseph secured FTD in CLK320, but Denise Dersin was nipping at his heels only a few hundredths of a second behind. Julian "anybody seen my helmet?" Reeves also put forward a strong showing.
We also allow the teens of Benz owners to compete in the autocross. By the end of the day, all we could see were grins from ear to ear. Many of the drivers kept going, and going. It gave new meaning to the expression "fun runs". I want to point out one driver in particular. Eric Liming participated in a Toyota Corolla that looked like it was built back when rocks were soft. Not pretty to look at, but it ran. There is a special bond between a new driver and their first car. It is probably the one car that you can remember more details, quirks, and stories about than any other vehicle you will own. I know that's true for me. Eric wasn't the fastest driver of the day, but he embodied the spirit of driving. Like the other drivers, he gained a new set of skills and for one brief afternoon in an old Toyota Corolla became Mario Andretti.
A special thanks to our instructors over the course of the day -
| Klaus Hirtes | Harry Newman | Jim Smith | Debbie Hirtes |
| Bill Stewart | Steve Walters | Bruce Roth | Tom Newman |
| Mercedes-Only Autocross | ||
| Driver | Car | Best Time |
| Ted Joseph | CLK320 | 35.724 |
| Denise Dersin | CLK320* | 35.795 |
| Bill Repass | 02 E55 | 36.554 |
| Jim Lozoskie | 91 190E | 36.585 |
| Klaus Hirtes | 67 230SL | 36.637 |
| Bruce Roth | 87 190E 16-V | 36.803 |
| Julian Reeves | 02 C320 | 36.955 |
| Leonardo Bodmer | C320 | 37.098 |
| Debbie Hirtes | 67 230SL | 37.710 |
| Bill Stewart | 95 E320 | 37.784 |
| Hendrek Bakker | 97 500SL | 38.929 |
| John Trouton | 89 480SEL | 39.421 |
| Bridget Walters | 97 500SL | 39.533 |
| Debbie Repass | 02 E55 | 39.615 |
| Richard Lipsky | 01 C240 | 40.014 |
| Rick Ferrell | 85 560SL | 40.321 |
| Bill Hopper | 97 C280 | 40.572 |
| Ricardo Bodmer | 95 E320 | 40.707 |
| Brian Routh ier | 93 300D | 40.818 |
| Lois Stewart | 95 E320 | 41.697 |
| Larry Rittenger | 02 C240 | 41.962 |
| Ian Morris | 01 C240 | 43.086 |
| Judy Roth | 87 190E 16-V | 43.139 |
| Teens Non-Mercedes Cars | ||
| Mark Bakker | 89 BMW M3 | 36.702 |
| Adrien Erler | 99 VW Jetta | 39.082 |
| Chris Krohn | 03 Honda Civic | 39.668 |
| Stuart Trouton | 94 Honda Civic | 40.871 |
| Justin Bender | 98 Grand Prix | 41.048 |
| Eric Liming | 85 Toyota Corrolla | 41.777 |
| Amanda Erler | 02 Ford Taurus | 42.057 |
| | Fastest Time of Day |
| * | Fastest Ladies Time of Day |
| | Fastest Teen Time of Day |
Under the Hood Event
Designs that helped make Mercedes great
rom
the sporty 230SL to the powerful 300SEL 6.3, from the finbacks to the beautiful 280SE coupes and convertibles, classic Mercedes shared certain design elements. This is a rare chance to learn about one of them - the kingpin front suspension. This pervasive suspension design was used on most postwar cars up until 1972.
Ever wondered what made the older Mercedes such fine automobiles? Have you ever wanted to look under your classic Mercedes, or have you been afraid to? Or, even if you just want to hold up your end of the conversation at the front-end alignment shop this session will be of interest.
In the comfort of a living room, you can see, touch and learn about the classic Mercedes-Benz kingpin front suspension. The entire component has been removed from a car and prepared for display. One side is assembled; one side is in pieces. See how it works, understand the important features, learn about the major parts. Basic suspension concepts will be discussed, too, and the session will be suitable for "techies" and "non-techies" alike. (Depending on interest, future sessions can be more technically focused, and cover maintenance, repair and alignment.)
The session will be held on Sunday, January 18, from 1:00PM to 4:00PM, just south of Old Town Alexandria (directions will be forwarded to those who register). Light refreshments will be served, and participants will have a chance to socialize and ask questions to their heart's content.
There is limited space available and advance registration is required. So, mark you calendar and send in the reservation form today with a check for $15. If you have questions, contact Steve Walters at gwstech@earthlink.net or call 703-765-9405. This is really a great opportunity to look "under the hood" at one of the design features that helped Mercedes earn the reputation it has today.
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shops are something we wish we knew more about when we need them, but when we need them, it is too late. In a perfect world we will never need one, but if we do, it's good to know what to look for in a shop that is going to work on our Mercedes!
On Saturday, February 28, from 8:00AM to 2:00PM you'll have the chance to find out about how a first class body shop operates. Also, it will be an opportunity for you to try your hand at some body shop skills! The Wagonwork staff will be on hand to answer all your questions - from the technical ones to how the insurance companies deal with the question of body repairs.
Wagonwork Collision, one of the top body shops in the area, is hosting an all day event for MBCA members at their new facility in Alexandria. The day will start with coffee and doughnuts, a tour, and a chance to talk with their techs on the subject of Mercedes-Benz sheet metal. Hands on demonstrations of how they pull out dents (Wagonwork drills no holes) where you will not only see how it is done, but give it a try yourself. The Wagonwork team will also show a variety of alternate dent removal techniques - and again will ask for volunteers to try it for themselves.
During lunch (included with the tour) you will see the intricacies of the modern painting process. The use of computer color matching along with the modern paint used by Mercedes will be demonstrated... Sorry folks no hands-on painting as only the experts are allowed in the spray booth! We'll see an up-close demonstration on the use of waterborne paint - the kind used in the modern Mercedes-Benz factory.
This will be a great time to see this new facility dedicated to Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. Wagonwork is considered to be one of the best shops in the country and has been written up in many to-the-trade body shop publications, not only for their body and paintwork, but also their personnel. We will get to see first hand how Wagonwork is on the leading edge of technology and employee training.
This event is for every MBCA member! Men and women alike! We all love our Benzes and need to know how to handle a body repair if the time comes! Come out have breakfast and lunch and learn all you ever wanted to know about fine bodywork and the application of paint. It is truly an art form!
Cost for this event is $15 and is only open to MBCA members. Register early! Space is limited. The registration form is in the centerfold. More information will be sent upon receipt of your registration. Call Bill Hopper at 202-363-4189.
riving
the Maybach was an unusual experience for me. My Mercedes stable includes a broad spectrum of vehicles from a 1965 finback to a 2002 C230K sports coupe. I've got a 123-bodied diesel and a Cosworth-Mercedes 16-Valve. My finback doesn't even have power steering or air conditioning. The 16-Valve is characterized by brutal mechanical directness. My diesel smells and my sports coupe has a manual tranny. The Maybach is a very different creature indeed. It's a technological tour de force incorporating every conceivable electronic device with the objective of creating the ultimate in luxury and safety, alloyed with more than a modicum of performance. There is television for the rear seat passengers along with power lounge chairs more comfortable than anything you could get for your living or bedroom.
Mercedes hand crafts the Maybach at the same assembly plant where it manufactures the S-Class sedans. The Maybach is the uppity cousin of my C230K's uppity cousin. DaimlerChrysler has resurrected the Maybach name from the historical past.
Wilhelm Maybach was a colleague of Gottlieb Daimler who ultimately went on to build engines and automobiles under his own name. The Maybach company was purchased by Mercedes-Benz in the late '30s of the last century. Wilhelm Maybach never built an ordinary automobile. His cars were all engineering marvels of sophistication and simplicity, the epitome of design and craftsmanship. Maybach's total production numbers during the classic era were minuscule. However, their stature among the cognoscenti has been such that the leadership in Stuttgart has chosen to reintroduce the marque as the finest automobile for the 21st Century.
It was on the Monterey Peninsula that I test-drove the new Maybach. This was an appropriate venue not because of the fabled wealth of the local citizenry but because the area's twisting back roads provide an ideal opportunity to test the handling characteristics of a "driver's car." I pushed the Maybach to its limits, with the ESP shut down for safety, of course. This 6000-pound vehicle has tenacious grip and neutral balance. It can be drifted through a sweeper and set up for a perfect exit line. The Maybach takes its stance. It moves the bulk of a fullback with the grace of a ballerina. This car can show its heels to Porsches and Ferraris.
The Maybach combines the rarity and ιclat of an exotic car with the production quality and engineering sophistication that only Mercedes can muster.
I was scrubbing rubber along the curves of 17 Mile Drive, swirling the morning mist and skirting the line of rock-strewn coast overlooking an azure sea. The well-bolstered seats kept me firmly planted as the steering geometry allowed the wheels to follow just the right line from apex to apex. I felt like John von Neumann as he piloted a Ferrari Barchetta to glory along this very route during the Pebble Beach sports car race in 1950. Curiously enough that magnificent Modena charger of yore was slower through the S-curves shod with vintage Dunlop cord than my Sindlefingen chariot with its low profile Michelin Z-rated Pilots. I had the sunroof open and the thermopane side windows rolled down to allow the kelpy sea air to waft into the leather-ensconced cockpit.
As we rounded a curve and emerged from a copse of cedar and pine I saw it looming before me like an apparition. Parked along the marge of Spanish Bay was a white 1934 Maybach with coachwork by Erdmann & Rossi of Berlin. The dual cowl phaeton was a vision of loveliness, grace and purpose. I stood on my ABS brakes and came to a halt beside the mighty German classic. This model was called the Zeppelin in honor of the aero engines that the Maybach company had built for the great lighter-than-air ships of the '20s and '30s.
The Maybach Zeppelin was powered by a 12-cylinder motor. The engine compartment was a study in simplicity with easy access to all mechanical components. The manual transmission had four forward speeds actuated by a long chrome plated lever on the floor. The white steering wheel was enormous. It's prodigious size dictated by the force and leverage that was required to move the great steel disc wheels in the absence of any power assist. All the furniture was hard chrome plated and gleaming in the early morning sun. The windscreen was hinged at the top with knurled knobs protruding from the facia so as to be able to tilt it forward for additional ventilation in a world before air-conditioning. I stood transfixed before this classic beauty for an indeterminate period of time, taking in every aspect of the wonderful machine posed in this beautiful natural environment of rock, sky and sea.
Much to my embarrassment I was so thoroughly mesmerized by the magnificent 1934 Maybach that I totally forgot about my test-drive in its 2004 model descendant. I only came to my senses when a representative of MBUSA drove up in a C-Class chase vehicle hot on the trail of their missing test car and this errant driver.
| John Kuhn Bleimaier |
Mercedes-Benz Unveils SLR McLaren
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new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren made its world premiere at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The new SLR super sports car marks a new era of Mercedes-Benz passion for high-performance sports cars and, at the same time, celebrates the formidable SLR racecars of the 1950s. A futuristic interpretation of styling elements from the original 300SLR and from the latest F1 Silver Arrow race cars bridges the past and future, bringing cutting-edge motorsports inspired design to the road, just as the legendary SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe did in 1955.
A supercharged V8 producing over 600 horsepower rockets the new SLR from zero to 60 in just 3.7 seconds, and its top speed exceeds 200 mph. Stopping the car is equally quick, thanks to ceramic brake discs and an innovative air brake mounted in the trunk lid. When the driver heavily applies the brake pedal, the air brake pops up at a 65-degree angle, increasing drag and providing greater down force.
The new SLR sports car allows Mercedes-Benz and its F1 partner McLaren to showcase their collective experience in the development and production of high-performance sports cars. This unique combination of expertise is evident not only in the pioneering developments and impressive performance of the new SLR, but also in its high levels of safety and practicality.
The limited-production SLR McLaren will go on sale in Europe late this year, and its U.S. market launch is planned for summer 2004.
One dramatic example of technology transfer from Formula 1 racing is the carbon fiber composite construction of the new SLR body, which provides rigidity and strength never before achieved in road-going vehicles. Equally impressive is its high level of occupant protection. In a serious collision, specially designed crash structures of carbon fiber help the new sports car absorb over four times more crash energy than convention steel or aluminum.
The ceramic brake discs on the SLR are made of a new composite material. Fiber-reinforced ceramic boasts astounding stopping power, high heat resistance, outstanding structural strength and long service life. The SLR will be one of very few production cars to make use of ceramic brake technology. Fitted with huge eight-piston calipers up front, the brake system alone can decelerate the SLR up to 1.3 g, and the air brake adds to the braking force, especially at high speeds.
Under the SLR's hood lurks a supercharged V8 engine developed and built by Mercedes-AMG. Delivering well over 600 horsepower for 0-to-60 miles-per-hour acceleration of about 3.7 seconds, each SLR engine is hand-built at AMG's manufacturing facility. The engine's dry-sump lubrication system - originally developed for race cars to prevent oil starvation during extremely hard cornering - includes a remote oil tank that eliminates any conventional oil pan or sump, allowing the engine to be mounted lower in the frame for better aerodynamics and an even lower center of gravity. The power plant is also mounted in a front mid-engine position, largely behind the front wheels.
Like the new car, the SLR sport-racing car of the 1950s combined leading-edge technology from the SL sports car and the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 racecar. Its three-liter, straight-eight engine made 310 horsepower, pushing the 300SLR to speeds of around 190 miles per hour.
Perhaps the original SLR's most astonishing feat was in the 1955 Mille Miglia, a no-holds-barred race through Italy over twisty public roads. Setting a record never to be matched, Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson piloted the 300SLR over the 1000-mile road course in 10 hours, seven minutes and 48 seconds!
Not only does the new SLR boast a rich heritage, but the super sports car also has an exciting future as a flagship within the multi-dimensional Mercedes-Benz brand. With by far the broadest product portfolio of any luxury automaker, Mercedes-Benz offers an array of models ranging from mid-size coupes to large premium sedans as well as luxury roadsters and now the SLR super sports car.
230SL, 1966: White/red interior. New black canvas top/matching white hard top. Showroom condition. 56k miles. $27,900 obo. Call Joe at 410-788-1551.
450SLC, 1975: Hunter green/tan leather. Excellent! Ext.. well-maintained, auto trans, sun roof, power windows, always garaged. Only 46.9k miles. No repairs needed. A real jewel! $12,500 obo. Call Don Zowader at 202-237-1522.
450SL, 1976: Dark blue/new blue leather. Both tops. Not running (overheats) but could. Minor rust but restorable. $1500. Call Andrew at 301-577-0052.
450SLC, 1979: Brilliant red metallic/bamboo leather. 74k miles. Runs/drives beautifully. Needs paint and A/C work. $4500. Call Tom at 410-668-6915.
240D, 1979: White/bamboo. New rebuilt trans. New dash, carpet, tires, more. Engine runs strong, needs vacuum pump. $1300 obo. Call Daniel at 434-791-8062 or 540-923-9919.
300SD, 1980: Brown/tan. Driven daily. Super running condition. Auto, sun roof, A/C. Well maintained. VA inspection. Small body blemishes. Good commuter car. 25 mpg. $3600 obo. Call Roger Baker at 703-352-7320.
300D Turbo, 1982: Green/green leather. Except. good cond. Driven daily/original owner (non-smoker). Sun roof. Garage kept, well maintained, records, low mileage. $5400. Call Al at 703-281-5750 or email at <aasedk@Juno.com>.
300D, 1985: 163k miles. Good body, no rust. Driven daily. Started first time daily this winter. New A/C - very cold. New glow plugs. Spare Becker Grand Prix radio. $5750. Call Robert at 703-924-3225.
560SL, 1987: Tan/tan leather. Both tops. 75k miles. $11,500. Call Barbara at (w)703-734-3222 or (h) 703-356-0698.
560SL, 1989: Black/black. 2nd own. Exc cond., garaged. 84k miles. 2 tops. Dealer maintained (records). New alternator, steering box, tie rods, linkages, battery, fuel pumps, oil changes, brakes. $18,500. Call Chuck at 703-609-7882.
560SEC, 1991: Champagne/cream beige leather. 113k miles. Full power, heated frt seats, 2nd owner, non-smoker. Must see! New MD insp. $9999 obo. Call Fred at 301-984-3225.
300TE, 1992: Smoke silver/cream beige. Showroom cond. Optional 3rd seat. 96k miles. $11,300 obo. Call Joe at 410-788-1551.
190E 2.6, 1993: Black. 105k miles. Limited edition. One owner. CD. XM radio. New tires. Call Page at 202-966-3480.
S350, 1994: Pearl black/gray. Only 116k miles. New motor at 50k. 6-CD changer. Wonderful condition! No leaks. Dealer service. 2000 MB wheels. Tires have 5k miles. Asking $20,000. Call Larry at 828-891-1716.
E300D, 1995: Midnight blue/tan MB Tex. Exc. running condition. Well maintained in & out. All records. Garage kept, new blower motor, brakes, rotors. 147k miles. $13,400 obo. Call Alan at 410-308-1764.
ML430, 1999: Black/black. 133k miles. New trans at 116k. MB warranty to 150k. Side steps, brush guards, skid plates, PIAA lights, MB video. New springs, shocks, lowered. 20 mpg. Call Richard at 703-927-5920.
CL500, 1999: Silver/black. 33k miles. 6 CD changer. Immaculate. Phone and many other options. $42,500. Call John at 301-706-5433 or 301-686-0500 x 101.
Misc: 4 alloy wheels (1976 SL). Very nice $200. SL factory service manual $75. Call Andrew at 301-577-0052.
Wheels/Tires: For SLK, C, others. 4 German Mille Miglia Star alloys w/Pirelli 205/55H16. Stored to mfg. recommendation. Cost $1100. Sell $400. Call Mac at 301-724-4020.
Wheels/tires: For 107 SL. 4 race tires on newly refurbished 14 inch turbine wheels. Toyo 225 R14 R1 compound tires. Excellent shape. Used 1 season. Asking $300. Call Al at 703-527-2404.
Wheels/tires: 4 MB wheels for E320 from 96-02. 16 x 7.5, 11 hole (pointy spoke style). Excellent. Minor scrapes on outside edge. Clean, not bent. $375. Call Bill at 202-363-4189. Pictures at <http://home.att.net/~wwhrestoration/eclasswheelswb.jpg>
Wheels/tires: 18 inch BBS RC aluminum wheels w/235-45 ZR18 Bridgestone Potenza tires. 2k miles. Plenty tread left. Exc. cond. No curb marks. Paid $2600. Sell for $1200 + shipping. Call Francesco at 410-302-2021.
Wheels/tires: 4 AMG wheels/Bridgestone Blizzak snows 225/45 R17. Fits C & CLK-Class. Exc. cond. Like new tread. $750. Also FREE roof rack for 300CE. Call Gary at 301-263-0470.
Wheels/tires: From 2000-2 four orig. tires and rims. Excellent cond. Tires have 12k miles. Will deliver in DC area. $600. Call 703-362-3498 or email at <anhdoquy@msn.com.
Wheels/tires/stereo: 1992 500SL factory wheels w/Michelin Symetry 225/60 R16 tires $400. Becker Am/FM cassette w/factory 10 disk CD changer. $100 obo. Call David at 240-882-3821 or email at <dnproctor@co.pg.md.us>.
CD Changer: For 2001 C320. Cost $695. Sell $300. Call Tom at 410-825-2346.
SL Panoramic roof: Brilliant silver. Perfect. Asking $4500 obo. Call Ken at 301-320-2513 or 301-215-5471.
Parts: For 1975 240D/similar body style. Doors. hood, trunk lid, new front fenders, bumpers. Call for prices. Call John at 703-719-0406.
Tail light assembly: For 123 series. New in carton. Retail $350. $100. Call Jim at 703-495-9966 email at <jim.neary@longand foster.com>
Star Magazines: Complete from July 1983 through August 2003. Excellent condition. Tech articles indexed. Call Al Geiger at 703-281-5750 or email <aasedk@Juno.com>.
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American Service Center
703-525-2100 EuroMotorcars 301-986-8800 Merchant's Tire & Auto 800-637-2426 RC Imports 301-762-4205 Curry's Auto Service 703-502-0400 MB Motors 703-978-4564 Potomac German Auto 800-831-7686 |
Radial Tire Co.
301-585-2740 Dent Wizard 800-336-8949 EMB Parts 703-425-5380 Wheel Worx 410-969-7301 MB Roadside Assistance 800-367-6372 Electronics Service Center 301-881-8637 |
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