Great Garages: Past Perfect
April 1, 2006
Another example is the limited series of Patent Motor Car replicas built in Fellbach some years ago. These faithful re-creations were sold mainly to Mercedes-Benz dealers; they are fully functional and perhaps slightly more reliable.
Initially, the Irvine Classic Center will focus on postwar cars, up to and including the 126 series models built through 1992. The company expects to do considerable business in 300SLs (Gullwing coupes and roadsters), the smaller 190SLs, the later series SL roadsters from the 1960s, and limited-production models such as the massive 600 limousines and the ultrarapid 300SEL 6.3 and
450SEL 6.9 sedans from the 1960s and ’70s.
The emphasis on more contemporary vehicles–given Mercedes-Benz’s 120-year history, even a 50-year-old machine might qualify for that category–does not mean owners of older cars will be left out. One of the Irvine center’s responsibilities will be to act as a broker for the more extensive restoration services offered back in Fellbach at the original center, assisting in the preparation of estimates, scheduling, and shipping.
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The Classic Center also offers an expanded range of online services. By the
end of 2006, potential customers will be able to access detailed descriptions and
images of the cars available in the retail department, along with their histories. A search tool will aid in the hunt for sources of service and parts manuals and other literature. The currently available e-mail service for ordering parts
will continue, as will the toll-free telephone number for parts inquiries. (Click image to enlarge)
Mercedes-Benz expects to reap several benefits from the Classic Center program. Beyond preserving and drawing attention to the magnificent automobiles it has produced over the years, the company intends for this program to be a profit center as well.
But adding to the revenue stream is only part of the vision. A striking new museum at DaimlerChrysler’s Stuttgart headquarters, similar in design to the iconic Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City according to those who have seen it, will open its doors to the public in May. The already comprehensive display of company products in the old museum will be further enlarged, providing an awe-inspiring look at the evolution of the Mercedes-Benz automobile. And, not far away, the Karl Benz Auto Museum, based in the former greenhouse where Benz and engineer Wilhelm Maybach labored to bring the automotive age to life, continues to draw visitors.
The new Classic Center promises to draw its own visitors, and it may even bring additional customers into the Mercedes fold.
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center
866.622.5277
www.mbusa.com/classic
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