Wikicars - User contributions [en]

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster

2008-02-16T15:21:50Z

201.1.197.31: /* External Links */

{{Infobox |
|Image = [[Image:Slr roadster 06.jpg|300px]]
|Marque = [[Mercedes-Benz]]
|aka = [[Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren]]
|Production = 2007 - present
|Class = [[Supercar]] / Hypercar
|Body Style = 2-door, 2-seat Cabriolet
|Length = 183.3 in (4656 mm)
|Width = 75.1 in (1908 mm)
|Height = '''Height - type here'''
|Wheelbase = 106.3 in (2700 mm)
|Weight = 4024 lb
|Transmission = AMG 5-Speed Multi-Mode Speedshift R [[Automatic]]
|Engine = 5.5 litre ''supercharged'' [[V8]], 24 valve
|Power = 617 hp @ N/a rpm<br>575 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|Similar = [[Koenigsegg CCX]]<br>[[Lamborghini Murciélago Roadster]]<br>[[Porsche Carrera GT]]<br>[[Pagani Zonda Roadster]]<br>[[Maserati MC12]]
|Designer = N/A
}}
'''Use the following MODEL TEMPLATE as the foundation for the Wikicars' Model page:'''

Start off with a brief Introduction to the particular MODEL. Please DO NOT use the same Introduction text from the [[Wikicars:Model Review Template|<MODEL> Review]] page, but rather paraphrase ideas relevant to grasp an overall scope of the [[automobile|vehicle]].

'''Please include the following line at the bottom of this section. Please replace [[Wikicars:Model Review Template|<MODEL> Review]] with the proper text:'''

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Wikicars:Model Review Template|<MODEL> Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===
Mention any minor facelifts or major changes made to the [[automobile|vehicle]] here.

===Styles and Major Options===
Certain [[automobile|vehicles]] come in different trim levels or body styles. Features and major options should be mentioned here.

===Pricing===
''Add more fields as necessary.''

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:center; margin:0 0em 1em; width:collapse; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:85%; line-height:2.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#000000; background:#cccccc; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |'''MODEL Trims'''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | Trim1
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | Trim2
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | Trim3
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | Trim4
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#fff; background:#811b33; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |''MSRP''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | $500,000 (est.)
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | $Price2
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | $Price3
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | $Price4
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#fff; background:#811b33; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |''Invoice''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | $Price1
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | $Price2
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | $Price3
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | $Price4
|}

===Gas Mileage===
''Add more fields as necessary.''

As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:center; margin:0 0em 1em; width:collapse; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:85%; line-height:2.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#000000; background:#cccccc; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |'''Trim'''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | Trim1
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | Trim2
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | Trim3
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | Trim4
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#000000; background:#cccccc; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |'''MPG'''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | c/h
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;"| c/h
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | c/h
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;"| c/h
|}

===Engine and Transmission===
Specifications, details, graphs, pictures and other information regarding the powertrain is placed in this section.

===Performance===
Please make sure to '''''write information of the vehicle's performance in a third-person point of view'''''. This section should include information about the car's '''acceleration figures''', '''handling''', '''braking''', etc.

If using information gathered from Road Test articles from a reputable automotive source, then '''''please make sure to cite the quote'''''.

===Reliability===
Warranty options and scheduled maintainence information should be mentioned here.

===Safety===
This section should reference points on safety ratings and features of the vehicle.

===Photos===

<gallery>
Image:Slr roadster 01.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 02.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 03.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 04.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 05.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 07.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 08.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 09.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 10.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 11.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 12.jpg
Image:Slr roadster 13.jpg
</gallery>

Add ''Photos'' of the [[automobile|vehicle]] here.

'''''Please make sure not to use copyrighted photos.'''''

===Colors===
List the colors that the particular <MODEL> is offered in.

===Main Competitors===
Create links to other <MAKE> <MODEL> pages in this section.

==Hybrid Models==
If there are [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] versions of this vehicle manufactured, then please elaborate a little bit on it here.

==Unique Attributes==
If there are any features of this [[automobile|vehicle]] that sets it apart from other [[automobile|vehicles]] in its class, then mention those ''unique attributes'' here.

==Interior==
This section should include information on the interior's ''design'', ''build quality'', ''ergonomics'', ''space (head and legroom, front and rear)'', ''features'', ''stowage compartments'' and ''overall comfortability'' and ''livability''. Add pictures wherever applicable and '''''keep information in a third-person point of view'''''.

==Resale Values==
''Add more fields as necessary.''

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:center; margin:0 0em 1em; width:collapse; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:85%; line-height:2.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#000000; background:#9e9784; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |'''<MODEL> Year'''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | Year X
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | Year X-2
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | Year X-3
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | Year X-4
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"
|- style="color:#000000; background:#9e9784; font-size:larger; font-style:bold; text-align:left;"
! colspan=4 |'''Resale Value'''
|-
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | $
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | $
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#ddb;" | $
! style="text-align:left; font-weight:large; background:#f4f4da;" | $
|}

==Criticisms==
Please make sure to '''''keep critiques in a third-person point of view'''''. If using criticisms from a reputable automotive source, then '''''please make sure to cite the quote'''''.

==Generations==
Fill in as many as appropriate. Add more if necessary and pictures wherever applicable.

'''''Please make sure NOT to use copyrighted pictures'''''.

==Current Generation: (YYYY–present)==

===Fifth generation (YYYY–YYYY)===

===Fourth generation (YYYY–YYYY)===

===Third generation (YYYY–YYYY)===

===Second generation (YYYY–YYYY)===

===First Generation/Origins (YYYY–YYYY)===

==Worldwide==
If the [[automobile|vehicle]] is sold in other markets worldwide, then this is the section to mention that information. Also, mention if the <MODEL> goes by another name in these other markets.

==Design quirks and oddities==
Refer to any pop-culture tidbits about the [[Automobile|vehicle]] in this section.

==Awards==
List out notable ''awards'' that the model has recieved while in production. '''Boldface''' the company or organization that gives out the award, and ''Italicize'' the name of the award.

==See also==
{{Mercedes-Benz}}
{{McLaren}}

==External Links==
* [http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/officially-official-mercedes-benz-reveals-slr-mclaren-roadster/ Officially Official: Mercedes-Benz reveals SLR McLaren Roadster]
* [http://news.windingroad.com/body-stylesmarket-segment/convertibles/fast-acting-wig-remover-benz-introduces-slr-mclaren-roadster/ Fast-Acting Wig Remover: Benz Introduces SLR McLaren Roadster]
* [http://www.motorauthority.com/news/supercars/mercedes-benz-slr-mclaren-roadster-unveiled/ Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster unveiled]
* [http://fmbb.livreforum.com/slr-mclaren-r-c199-c25 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

[[Category:Pages with the First Anniversary Infobox Upgrade]]

Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

2008-02-16T15:14:28Z

201.1.197.31: /* External links */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Mercedes-benz-clk-63-amg-749396.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Mercedes-Benz]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| {{{aka (Type here, not up there)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| {{{produced from when to when+total units made (optional)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| {{{Class}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| {{{Body-Style}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| {{{length - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| {{{Width - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| {{{Height - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| {{{wheelbase - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| {{{Weight - you get the point}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| {{{transmission + drive}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| {{{engine}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{Horsepower and Torque rating}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| {{{similar (competition)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class''' is a class of medium-sized luxury rear-wheel drive coupés and [[convertible]]s. Major models include the '''CLK320''', '''CLK500''', and '''CLK55 AMG'''. The CLK55 AMG's 270 kW (367 PS) V8 engine is the most powerful. Both generations of the CLK-Class utilize the Mercedes-Benz W208 chassis. The CLK's unique platform borrows from both the [[Mercedes-Benz C-Class|C-Class]] and [[Mercedes-Benz E-Class|E-Class]]. Inspiration for the CLK-Class came from the E-Class coupé and convertible produced from 1994–1995.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Wikicars:Model Review Template|<MODEL> Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===
* For June 2007, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the limited edition '''Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series'''. It sports a 6.2-liter [[V8]] built and designed by [[AMG]], with 507 bhp @ 6800 rpm and 465 lb-ft @ 5250 rpm of torque mated to Mercedes' AMG-tuned SpeedShift 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic gearbox with sequential shifting.

<gallery>
Image:060620071714384243.jpg
Image:060620071714384329.jpg
Image:060620071714380044.jpg
Image:060620071714380282.jpg
Image:060620071714384796.jpg
Image:060620071714380145.jpg
Image:060620071714382526.jpg
Image:060620071714382144.jpg
</gallery>

===Styles and Major Options===
Certain [[automobile|vehicles]] come in different trim levels or body styles. Features and major options should be mentioned here.

===Pricing===
''Add more fields as necessary.''

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
''Add more fields as necessary.''

As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===
Warranty options and scheduled maintainence information should be mentioned here.

===Safety===
This section should reference points on safety ratings and features of the vehicle.

===Photos===

<gallery>
Image:Foto40 Mercedes Benz CLK Cabriolet.jpg
</gallery>

===Colors===
List the colors that the particular <MODEL> is offered in.

===Main Competitors===
Create links to other <MAKE> <MODEL> pages in this section.

**[[BMW 6 Series]]
**[[Lexus SC]]
**[[Volvo C70]]
**[[porsche 911]]

==Hybrid Models==
If there are [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] versions of this vehicle manufactured, then please elaborate a little bit on it here.

==Unique Attributes==
If there are any features of this [[automobile|vehicle]] that sets it apart from other [[automobile|vehicles]] in its class, then mention those ''unique attributes'' here.

==Resale Values==
''Add more fields as necessary.''

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''<MODEL> Year'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Year X
</td>
<td>
Year X-2
</td>
<td>
Year X-3
</td>
<td>
Year X-4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''Resale Value'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==
Please make sure to '''''keep critiques in a third-person point of view'''''. If using criticisms from a reputable automotive source, then '''''please make sure to cite the quote'''''.

==Generations==
===2003–present (W209)===
[[image:clk55_designo.JPG|thumb|right|250px|2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG cabriolet]]
The CLK coupe was redesigned for 2003, with the cabriolet following in 2004. The current generation of the CLK-Class is 2.4 inches (61 mm) longer, 0.7 inches (18 mm) wider and 1.1 inch (28 mm) higher than its predecessor.

*The '''CLK320''' features a 3.2 L, 18-valve single overhead cam ([[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]]) [[V6|V6]] engine and a 5-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission. The base price is US$46,000 for the coupe and US$53,600 for the cabriolet. The CLK320 was replaced by the CLK350 for 2006.
* The '''CLK350''' features a 3.5 L, 24-valve duel overhead cam ([[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]]) [[V6|V6]] engine and a 7-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission. The base price is US$45,750 for the coupe and US$53,700 for the cabriolet.
*The '''CLK500''' features a 5.0 L, 24-valve [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] V8 engine and a 7-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission. The base price is US$54,600 for the coupe and US$62,200 for the cabriolet.
*The '''CLK55 AMG''' features a 5.5 L, 24-valve [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] V8 engine and a 5-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission. The base price is US$69,900 for the coupe and US$82,000 for the cabriolet. The CLK55 AMG coupe was dropped in North America after the 2005 model year, though the cabriolet is still offered.
*The '''CLK63 AMG''' features a 6.3 L, 32-valve [[DOHC]] V8 and a 6-speed [[ Manual Transmission]] also offered is an 7-speed [[Automatic transmission]]. The base price is US $90,325.

[[Image:clk55cabrio.JPG|thumb|left|150px|2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG cabriolet]]
Each model seats four and includes an all-leather interior with burl walnut trim. While the CLK320 and CLK500 come with 17 inch (432 mm) alloy wheels, the CLK55 AMG sports 18 inch (457 mm) wheels. The cabriolets have a remote-operated [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] soft-top and sensor-controlled roll bars. The models all come standard with a Tele Aid emergency assistance system, [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] dual-zone air conditioning, 10-way power front seats and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Seven-channel digital surround sound comes standard. A Keyless Go system, [[Navigation System|navigation system]], Parktronic system, and bi-xenon headlights are all available as options. All models come with four side airbags.

===1998–2002 (W208)===
[[Image:Blue clk55.JPG|thumb|right|250px|2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG cabriolet]]
The first-generation CLK was introduced in the 1998 model year. Less expensive than the sporty [[Mercedes-Benz SL-Class|SL-Class]] convertibles, the first generation CLK cabriolet was the most successful convertible Mercedes-Benz ever offered; 41,520 were sold in the United States from 1999 to 2003, and more than 115,000 were sold throughout the world.

Models offered in the first generation were the '''CLK320''', '''CLK430''', and the '''CLK55 AMG'''. All were available in both coupe and convertible form.

The CLK320 coupe was introduced in the 1998 model year, powered by a 3.2 L [[V6|V6]] engine. The CLK320 cabriolet and the 4.3 L V8-powered CLK430 coupe appeared in 1999. A CLK430 cabriolet joined the lineup in 2000. The high-performance CLK55 AMG coupe was introduced in 2001, powered by a 5.4 L V8. The CLK55 AMG cabriolet became available in 2002, the last year of this body style.

==CLK GTR and CLK DTM==
The [[Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR]] was a V12 midengine race car developed for the 1997 [[FIA GT]] championships. It shared only lights and other exterior similarities with the normal CLK. Production of the required 25 road cars began in late 1998.

A special version of the CLK is the '''CLK DTM AMG''' [[sports car]], which looks similar to the full race car for the German [[Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters]] racing series which has to use a normally aspirated 4.0L V8, limited to less than 500 [[HP|hp]]. About 100 street cars were released for sale in Europe, using AMG's [[Supercharged Engine|supercharged]] 5.5L V8, now producing 428 kW (582PS) and 800 Nm (590ft.lbf). The front and rear track are widened by 2.9 and 4.2 inches (74 and 11 mm) respectively, and special tires and suspension modifications allow the car to pull 1.35 g (13 m/s²) of [[lateral acceleration]]. 0-100 km/h acceleration is just 3.9 seconds, and top speed is 320 km/h (199 mph). In Germany, the car cost 236,060 euro after taxes.

In addition to hard top '''CLK DTM AMG''', 100 convertible versions of CLK DTM were made for 2006 model year, titled Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Cabriolet. Compared to the coupe version, a speed limiter further reduces its top speed to 300 km/h (likely due to the top not able to withstand higher wind forces safely).

==Worldwide==
If the [[automobile|vehicle]] is sold in other markets worldwide, then this is the section to mention that information. Also, mention if the <MODEL> goes by another name in these other markets.

==Design quirks and oddities==
Refer to any pop-culture tidbits about the [[Automobile|vehicle]] in this section.

==Awards==
List out notable ''awards'' that the model has recieved while in production. '''Boldface''' the company or orgainization that gives out the award, and ''Italicize'' the name of the award.

{{Mercedes-Benz}}

==External links==
*[http://www.mbusa.com/models/class-overview.do?modelCode=clk_class_main Official US Website]
*[http://www.seriouswheels.com/top-2006-Mercedes-Benz-CLK-DTM-AMG-Cabriolet.htm CLK DTM AMG cabriolet press release] (English)
*[http://www.fantasycars.com/derek/cars/2004_mercedes_clk_dtm_amg.html 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG specifications] (English)
*[http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/coupes/0501_mercedes_benz_clk_dtm/ 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG review] (English)
*[http://forum.zercustoms.com/viewtopic.php?t=49 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG]
*[http://fmbb.livreforum.com/classe-clk-c208-c209-c15 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_CLK-Class Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mercedes-Benz_CLK-Class&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Current Models]]
[[Category:Mercedes-Benz vehicles|CLK-Class]]
[[Category:Coupes]]
[[Category:Convertibles]]
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]

Daimler AG

2008-02-16T15:11:53Z

201.1.197.31:

{{List of {{PAGENAME}} Models}}
'''Daimler AG''' ({{ISIN|DE0007100000}}) (formerly '''DaimlerChrysler AG''') is a German car corporation and the world's eighth largest car manufacturer. As well as [[automobiles]], Daimler manufactures [[truck]]s and provides financial services through its Daimler Financial Services arm. The company also owns a major stake in aerospace group EADS.

DaimlerChrysler was founded in 1998 when [[Mercedes-Benz]] manufacturer [[Daimler-Benz]] of Stuttgart, Germany bought the US-based [[Chrysler Corporation]]. The deal created a new entity, DaimlerChrysler. However, the buyout failed to produce the trans-Atlantic automotive powerhouse dealmakers had hoped for, and DaimlerChrysler announced on 14 May 2007, that it would sell Chrysler to Cerberus Capital Management of New York, a private equity firm that specializes in restructuring troubled companies, effectively unwinding the original transaction.<ref name="dcx_20070514">"[http://www.daimler.com/dccom/0-5-7145-1-858191-1-0-0-0-0-0-11979-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0.html Cerberus Takes Over Majority Interest in Chrysler Group and Related Financial Services Business for EUR 5.5 Billion ($7.4 billion) from DaimlerChrysler]." Official DaimlerChrysler press release. May 14, 2007.</ref> On October 4, 2007 a DaimlerChrysler Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting approved the renaming of the company. From October 5, 2007, the company has been titled Daimler AG.<ref>daimler.com: [http://www.daimler.com/dccom/0-5-7145-1-962758-1-0-0-0-0-0-8-7145-0-0-0-0-0-0-0.html Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting of DaimlerChrysler Approves Renaming as Daimler AG]</ref> The US company adopted the name ''Chrysler LLC'' when the sale completed on 3 August 2007.

Daimler produces cars and trucks under the brands of [[Mercedes-Benz]], [[Maybach]], [[Smart|Smart]], [[Freightliner LLC|Freightliner]] and many others.

== Chrysler operations ==
Chrysler has suffered a series of setbacks in recent years, culminating in DaimlerChrysler's agreement to sell the unit to Cerberus Capital Management in May 2007 for US$6 billion.
Through most of its history, Chrysler has been the third largest of the "Big 3" US auto makers, but in January 2007, DaimlerChrysler, excluding its luxury Mercedes and Maybach lines, also outsold traditionally second place Ford, though behind Toyota.

Chrysler reported losses of US$1.5 billion in 2006. It then announced plans to lay off 13,000 employees in mid-February 2007, close a major assembly plant and reduce production at other plants in order to restore profitability by 2008.<ref> [http://www.caranddriver.com/dailyautoinsider/12499/chrysler-announces-major-downsizing.html, Chrysler Announces Major Downsizing - Daily Auto Insider], ''CarAndDriver.com'', 15 February 2007, loaded 15 March 2007</ref>

The merger was contentious with investors launching lawsuits over whether the transaction was the 'merger of equals' that senior management claimed or actually amounted to a Daimler-Benz takeover of Chrysler. A class action investor lawsuit was settled in August 2003 for US$300 million while a suit by billionaire investor activist [[Kirk Kerkorian]] was dismissed on April 7, 2005.<ref> [http://www.caranddriver.com/article.asp?section_id=30&article_id=7060 DaimlerChrysler settles investor lawsuit], Car and Driver, 25 August 2003, retrieved 23 July 2007</ref> The transaction claimed the job of its architect, Chairman [[Jürgen E. Schrempp]], who resigned at the end of 2005 in response to the fall of the company's share price following the transaction. The merger was also the subject of a book ''Taken for a Ride: How Daimler-Benz Drove Off With Chrysler'', (2000) by Bill Vlasic and Bradley A. Stertz.<ref> [*[http://www-e.uni-magdeburg.de/mfett/Taken%20for%20a%20Ride.html Taken for a Ride], BBC book excerpt, retrieved 23 July 2007</ref>

Another issue of contention is whether the merger delivered promised synergies and successfully integrated the two businesses. As late as 2002, DaimlerChrysler appeared to run two independent product lines. Later that year, the company launched products that appear to integrate elements from both sides of the company, including the [[Chrysler Crossfire]], which used extensive Mercedes parts and the [[Dodge Sprinter]]/[[Freightliner Sprinter]], a re-badged [[Mercedes-Benz Sprinter]] van.

===Sale of Chrysler===
DaimlerChrysler was reportedly in negotiations with other carmakers and investment groups since early 2007 to sell Chrysler. [[General Motors]] was reported to be a suitor while [[Volkswagen]], the [[Renault]]-[[Nissan]] auto alliance, and [[Hyundai Motor Company]] had said that they weren't interested in buying the company.

On August 3 2007, DaimlerChysler completed the sale of Chrysler Group to Cerberus Capital Management. The original agreement stated that Cerberus would take an 80.1 percent stake in the new company, Chrysler Holding LLC. DaimlerChrysler will change its name to Daimler AG and retain the remaining 19.9% stake in the separated Chrysler.[http://www.daimler.com/dccom/0-5-7145-1-858191-1-0-0-0-0-0-11979-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0.html]

The terms will see Daimler pay Cerberus US$650 million to take Chrysler and associated liabilities off its hands. This is a remarkable reverse in fortunes on the US$36 billion paid to acquire Chrysler in 1998. Of the US$7.4 billion, purchase price, [[Cerberus Capital Management]] will invest US$5 billion in Chrysler Holdings and US$1.05 billion in Chrysler’s financial unit. The de-merged Daimler AG will receive US$1.35 billion directly from Cerberus but will invest US$2 billion in Chrysler itself.

==Management==
[[Dieter Zetsche]] has been the Chairman of Daimler and Head of Mercedes Cars since January 1, 2006 as well as member of Board of Management since 1998. He was former President and CEO of the Chrysler Group (a company of DaimlerChrysler until 2007), he is best known in the United States as Dr. Z from a Chrysler advertising campaign.

Current members of the Board of Management of Daimler AG are: [[Dieter Zetsche]], [[Gunther Fleig]], [[Rudiger Grube]], [[Andreas Renschler]], [[Bodo Uebber]], and [[Thomas Weber]].

Current members of the Supervisory Board of Daimler AG are: [[Heinrich Flegel]], [[Nate Gooden]], [[Earl Graves]], [[Thomas Klebe]], [[Erich Klemm]], [[Hilmar Kopper]], [[Arnaud Lagardère]], [[Jürgen Langer]], [[Robert Lanigan]], [[Helmut Lense]], [[Peter Magowan]], [[William Owens (businessman)|William Owens]], [[Gerd Rheude]], [[Udo Richter]], [[Wolf Röder]], [[Manfred Schneider]], [[Stefan Schwaab]], [[Bernhard Walter]], [[Lynton Wilson]], and [[Mark Wössner]].

== Daimler shareholders ==
The largest voting shareholder of Daimler is the State of Kuwait, with 6.9% (as at 30 July 2007), followed by Deutsche Bank with 4.35% (as at 2 May 2007) and the United Arab Emirates with 2.0% (as at 31 December 2005). [http://www.daimler.com/dccom/0-5-7196-1-70868-1-0-0-0-0-0-8-7164-0-0-0-0-0-0-0.html].

The regional breakdown of shareholdings as at 31 December 2006 was:
*43.6% Germany
*30.9% Other Europe
*17.2% USA
*8.3% Rest of world

== Brands ==
Daimler sells automobiles under the following marques worldwide:
* Mercedes-Benz Cars
** [[Maybach]]
** [[Mercedes-Benz]]
** [[Smart|Smart]]
** [[Mercedes-AMG]]

* Daimler Trucks
** [[Freightliner LLC|Freightliner]]
*** [[Thomas Built Buses]]
*** [[Sterling Trucks]]
*** [[Western Star]]
** [[Mercedes-Benz]] (truck group)
** [[Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation|Mitsubishi Fuso]]
** [[Detroit Diesel]]

* Daimler Buses
**[[Mercedes-Benz buses]]
**[[Setra]]
**[[Thomas Built Buses]]
**[[Orion Bus Industries]]

* Mercedes-Benz Vans
**[[Mercedes-Benz]] (vans group)

* Financial Services
**[[Daimler Financial Services]]:
***[[Mercedes-Benz Bank]]
***[[Mercedes-Benz Financial]]
***[[Daimler Truck Financial]]

== Holdings ==
Daimler currently holds interests in the following companies:
*85.0% [[Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation]] of Japan.
*40.0% [[McLaren Group]] of United Kingdom
*30.2% European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS) - a parent company of Airbus of Europe
*19.9% [[Chrysler LLC]] of United States

DaimlerChrysler disposed of the following holdings and businesses:
*10.5% [[Hyundai Motor Company]] — Bought in 2000 and 2001 for US$572 million. Sold in August 2004 for US$900 million
*37.1% [[Mitsubishi Motors]] of Japan - Stake diluted to 22% in April 2004 and disposal was concluded with sale to Goldman Sachs on November 18, 2005
* [[MTU Friedrichshafen]] and [[Detroit Diesel]] were sold to EQT in 2006.

==See also==
*[[DaimlerChrysler India]]
*[[DaimlerChrysler Canada]]
*[[Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance]]
*[[Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft]]
*''DaimlerChrysler Corp. v. Cuno'', 547 U.S. ___ (2006), a U.S. Supreme Court case involving tax incentives granted to DaimlerChrysler to expand its Toledo, Ohio facilities
* United States Council for Automotive Research

== References ==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons|Category:DaimlerChrysler|DaimlerChrysler}}
*[http://www.daimler.com/ Official Daimler site]
*[http://www.daimlerchrysler-financialservices.com/ DaimlerChrysler Financial Services]
*[http://fmbb.livreforum.com Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]



[[Category:Makes]]
[[Category:Motor vehicle manufacturers of Germany]]
[[Category:Bus manufacturers]]
[[Category:Daimler AG|*]]

Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG

2008-02-16T15:06:05Z

201.1.197.31: /* External Links */

Mercedes-Benz W140

2008-02-16T15:04:35Z

201.1.197.31: /* External links */

:''For a complete overview of all S-Class models see [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class]].''

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Wabenzi.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Mercedes-Benz W140'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Mercedes-Benz]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| August 6, 1991 – 1999
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Full-size car
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-door [[coupé]]<br />4-door [[sedan]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>5113 mm (201.3 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>201.3 in</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>1886 mm (74.3 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>74.6 in</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>1486 mm (58.5 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>56.2 in</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>3040–3139 mm (119.7–123.6 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>2944 mm (115.9 in)</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>1890 kg (4167 lb)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>4652 lb</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-speed ''[[4G-TRONIC]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]<br />5-speed ''[[5G-TRONIC]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| '''[[straight-6|I6]]'''<ul><li>3.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]]'' [[Diesel]]</li><li>3.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M104 engine|M104]]''</li></ul>'''[[V8 engine|V8]]'''<ul><li>4.2 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]''</li><li>5.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]''</li></ul>'''[[V12 engine|V12]]'''<ul><li>6.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M120 engine|M120]]''</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{Horsepower and Torque rating}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| {{{similar (competition)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Mercedes-Benz W140''' is a car that was manufactured by the German automotive marque [[Mercedes-Benz]]. The car premiered at the [[Salon International de l'Auto|Geneva Motor Show]] in March 1991, with the first examples rolling off the production line on August 6 1991. Short (''SE'') and long (''SEL'') wheelbase [[sedan]]s were offered initially, as well as the [[coupé]] (''SEC'') body style from January 1992. Like all Mercedes-Benz lines, the W140 S-Class was rationalized in 1994 using the new "letter-first" nomenclature, dropping the named distinction between body styles. The ''SE/SEL/SEC'' cars were renamed the ''S-Class'', with alphanumerical designations inverted. For example the both 500SE and 500SEL became S500 regardless of wheelbase length. The W140 series S-Class was superseded by the [[Mercedes-Benz W220|W220]] S-Class in 1999 after an eight year production run, and [[Mercedes-Benz C215|C215]] [[Mercedes-Benz CL-Class|CL-Class]] for 2000.

==Design and engineering==
As with its predecessor, the W140 was the first of the "next generation" of Mercedes-Benz models to feature the company's new design theme. The W140 introduced new innovations such as double-pane window glazing, self-closing doors and boot lid, electric windows which lowered back down when encountering an obstruction, rear-parking markers which appeared on the rear wings and a heating system which emitted warm air even after the engine was turned off.

For details like this, the W140 is often known as the last Mercedes to be "overengineered", a Mercedes trait that was costing the company in product delays and overbudgeting. For the consumer, the W140 cost a considerable 25% more than its predecessor, the [[Mercedes-Benz W126|W126]]. In addition, the intense pressure from [[Infiniti]] and [[Lexus]] led to adding more features and options as to set the W140 apart from the rest and to justify the higher price.

The W140 was to feature [[air suspension]] as an option, but Mercedes was still perfecting the technology and chose to launch air-suspension in the next generation S-Class in 2000. Following the mid-year facelift in 1995, Mercedes-Benz made [[Electronic Stability Control]] a standard fixture to both sedan and coupé body styles in the W140 range.

Like its predecessor, the car was available in two wheelbase lengths along with the shorter-wheelbased W140 coupé. In 1992, a new 6 litre 408 [[horsepower]] [[V12]] engine joined the lineup for the first time with the 600SE, 600SEL and 600SEC. A "V12" badge was affixed to the C-pillar. In 1995, grille was redesigned on all models, including a new and distinctive one for S600's.

In 1993, the 408 horsepower V12 engine was slightly detuned to 389 horsepower to comply with tighter emission control regulations in the United States and Europe. The V8 models were tuned down from 322 horsepower to 315 horsepower.

The W140 S600 was available with a leather dashboard and a suede headliner, unlike the [[V8]] and [[straight-6|inline 6-cylinder]] models. In 1995 the S600 also came with a wood/leather steering wheel, wood/leather gear shifter, wood rear ashtray covers, and two tone leather seating – further distinctions from its lower rung siblings.

Following the new Mercedes-Benz tradition of mid-life facelifts (starting with the W126 in 1986), the W140 received a minor facelift in 1995. The clear turn signal indicator lenses on the front and rear were the most obvious changes. Headlamps were fitted with separate low H1 and high H7 beam reflectors in 1995, pre 1995 used a H4 bulb and H3 for the fog lamp. In 1997 the two tone exterior bumpers were painted to match the upper portions of the vehicles.

==Legacy==
Criticised at launch for being overweight, oversized and generally unpleasing on the eye (attributes that were somewhat at odds with the so-called 'caring, sharing 1990s'), the sheer depth of engineering in the W140 has stood the test of time, and there are those that still prefer the car's unwavering capability and strength to that offered by later models. A properly maintained W140 is still a viable proposition today. Over-engineered at launch it may have been, but as a way of showcasing the company's talents, the W140 was unbeatable.

{| class=wikitable
!Wheelbase
!Body style
!Body code
!Years
!Model
!Engine
!Notes
|-
|rowspan=5|119.7||rowspan=5|sedan||rowspan=2|W140.134||1992–1993||300SD||3 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]]'' [[straight-6|I6]]||Turbo-Diesel
|-
|1994–1998||S350||3.5 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]]'' [[straight-6|I6]]||Turbo-Diesel
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.032||1992–1993||300SE||rowspan=2|3.2 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M104 engine|M104]]'' [[straight-6|I6]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S320||
|-
|W140.042||1992||400SE||4.2 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|rowspan=6|123.6||rowspan=6|sedan||rowspan=2|W140.043||1993||400SEL||rowspan=2|4.2 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S420||
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.051||1992–1993||500SEL||rowspan=2|5.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S500||
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.057||1992–1993||600SEL||rowspan=2|6.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M120 engine|M120]]'' [[V12]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S600||
|-
|rowspan=4|115.9||rowspan=4|coupé||rowspan=2|W140.070||1993||500SEC||rowspan=2|5.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|1994–1999||S500||
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.076||1993||600SEC||rowspan=2|6.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M120 engine|M120]]'' [[V12]]||
|-
|1994–1999||S600||
|}

==References==
* Schlegelmilch, Rainer W., Hartmut Lehbrink, Jochen Von Osterroth (2004). ''Mercedes''. Könemann. ISBN 3-8331-1056-2
* Kevin Smith. "Mercedes-Benz 500SEC". Car and Driver (March 1993): 45–49.
* William Jeanes. "Mercedes-Benz 300SE". Car and Driver (March 1993): 126–127.

==External links==
*[http://fmbb.livreforum.com/classe-s-w108-109-w116-w126-w140-w220-w221-c22 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

{{Mercedes-Benz vehicles}}

[[Category:Mercedes-Benz platforms|W140]]

Mercedes-Benz W140

2008-02-16T15:03:47Z

201.1.197.31:

:''For a complete overview of all S-Class models see [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class]].''

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Wabenzi.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Mercedes-Benz W140'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Mercedes-Benz]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Mercedes-Benz S-Class
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| August 6, 1991 – 1999
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Full-size car
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2-door [[coupé]]<br />4-door [[sedan]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>5113 mm (201.3 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>201.3 in</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>1886 mm (74.3 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>74.6 in</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>1486 mm (58.5 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>56.2 in</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>3040–3139 mm (119.7–123.6 in)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>2944 mm (115.9 in)</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| '''Sedan'''<ul><li>1890 kg (4167 lb)</li></ul>'''Coupé'''<ul><li>4652 lb</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-speed ''[[4G-TRONIC]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]<br />5-speed ''[[5G-TRONIC]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| '''[[straight-6|I6]]'''<ul><li>3.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]]'' [[Diesel]]</li><li>3.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M104 engine|M104]]''</li></ul>'''[[V8 engine|V8]]'''<ul><li>4.2 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]''</li><li>5.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]''</li></ul>'''[[V12 engine|V12]]'''<ul><li>6.0 L: ''[[Mercedes-Benz M120 engine|M120]]''</li></ul>
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{Horsepower and Torque rating}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| {{{similar (competition)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Mercedes-Benz W140''' is a car that was manufactured by the German automotive marque [[Mercedes-Benz]]. The car premiered at the [[Salon International de l'Auto|Geneva Motor Show]] in March 1991, with the first examples rolling off the production line on August 6 1991. Short (''SE'') and long (''SEL'') wheelbase [[sedan]]s were offered initially, as well as the [[coupé]] (''SEC'') body style from January 1992. Like all Mercedes-Benz lines, the W140 S-Class was rationalized in 1994 using the new "letter-first" nomenclature, dropping the named distinction between body styles. The ''SE/SEL/SEC'' cars were renamed the ''S-Class'', with alphanumerical designations inverted. For example the both 500SE and 500SEL became S500 regardless of wheelbase length. The W140 series S-Class was superseded by the [[Mercedes-Benz W220|W220]] S-Class in 1999 after an eight year production run, and [[Mercedes-Benz C215|C215]] [[Mercedes-Benz CL-Class|CL-Class]] for 2000.

==Design and engineering==
As with its predecessor, the W140 was the first of the "next generation" of Mercedes-Benz models to feature the company's new design theme. The W140 introduced new innovations such as double-pane window glazing, self-closing doors and boot lid, electric windows which lowered back down when encountering an obstruction, rear-parking markers which appeared on the rear wings and a heating system which emitted warm air even after the engine was turned off.

For details like this, the W140 is often known as the last Mercedes to be "overengineered", a Mercedes trait that was costing the company in product delays and overbudgeting. For the consumer, the W140 cost a considerable 25% more than its predecessor, the [[Mercedes-Benz W126|W126]]. In addition, the intense pressure from [[Infiniti]] and [[Lexus]] led to adding more features and options as to set the W140 apart from the rest and to justify the higher price.

The W140 was to feature [[air suspension]] as an option, but Mercedes was still perfecting the technology and chose to launch air-suspension in the next generation S-Class in 2000. Following the mid-year facelift in 1995, Mercedes-Benz made [[Electronic Stability Control]] a standard fixture to both sedan and coupé body styles in the W140 range.

Like its predecessor, the car was available in two wheelbase lengths along with the shorter-wheelbased W140 coupé. In 1992, a new 6 litre 408 [[horsepower]] [[V12]] engine joined the lineup for the first time with the 600SE, 600SEL and 600SEC. A "V12" badge was affixed to the C-pillar. In 1995, grille was redesigned on all models, including a new and distinctive one for S600's.

In 1993, the 408 horsepower V12 engine was slightly detuned to 389 horsepower to comply with tighter emission control regulations in the United States and Europe. The V8 models were tuned down from 322 horsepower to 315 horsepower.

The W140 S600 was available with a leather dashboard and a suede headliner, unlike the [[V8]] and [[straight-6|inline 6-cylinder]] models. In 1995 the S600 also came with a wood/leather steering wheel, wood/leather gear shifter, wood rear ashtray covers, and two tone leather seating – further distinctions from its lower rung siblings.

Following the new Mercedes-Benz tradition of mid-life facelifts (starting with the W126 in 1986), the W140 received a minor facelift in 1995. The clear turn signal indicator lenses on the front and rear were the most obvious changes. Headlamps were fitted with separate low H1 and high H7 beam reflectors in 1995, pre 1995 used a H4 bulb and H3 for the fog lamp. In 1997 the two tone exterior bumpers were painted to match the upper portions of the vehicles.

==Legacy==
Criticised at launch for being overweight, oversized and generally unpleasing on the eye (attributes that were somewhat at odds with the so-called 'caring, sharing 1990s'), the sheer depth of engineering in the W140 has stood the test of time, and there are those that still prefer the car's unwavering capability and strength to that offered by later models. A properly maintained W140 is still a viable proposition today. Over-engineered at launch it may have been, but as a way of showcasing the company's talents, the W140 was unbeatable.

{| class=wikitable
!Wheelbase
!Body style
!Body code
!Years
!Model
!Engine
!Notes
|-
|rowspan=5|119.7||rowspan=5|sedan||rowspan=2|W140.134||1992–1993||300SD||3 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]]'' [[straight-6|I6]]||Turbo-Diesel
|-
|1994–1998||S350||3.5 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz OM603 engine|OM603]]'' [[straight-6|I6]]||Turbo-Diesel
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.032||1992–1993||300SE||rowspan=2|3.2 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M104 engine|M104]]'' [[straight-6|I6]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S320||
|-
|W140.042||1992||400SE||4.2 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|rowspan=6|123.6||rowspan=6|sedan||rowspan=2|W140.043||1993||400SEL||rowspan=2|4.2 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S420||
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.051||1992–1993||500SEL||rowspan=2|5.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S500||
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.057||1992–1993||600SEL||rowspan=2|6.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M120 engine|M120]]'' [[V12]]||
|-
|1994–1998||S600||
|-
|rowspan=4|115.9||rowspan=4|coupé||rowspan=2|W140.070||1993||500SEC||rowspan=2|5.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M119 engine|M119]]'' [[V8]]||
|-
|1994–1999||S500||
|-
|rowspan=2|W140.076||1993||600SEC||rowspan=2|6.0 L ''[[Mercedes-Benz M120 engine|M120]]'' [[V12]]||
|-
|1994–1999||S600||
|}

==References==
* Schlegelmilch, Rainer W., Hartmut Lehbrink, Jochen Von Osterroth (2004). ''Mercedes''. Könemann. ISBN 3-8331-1056-2
* Kevin Smith. "Mercedes-Benz 500SEC". Car and Driver (March 1993): 45–49.
* William Jeanes. "Mercedes-Benz 300SE". Car and Driver (March 1993): 126–127.

==External links==
*[http://fmbb.livreforum.com/classe-m-w163-w164-c20 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

{{Mercedes-Benz vehicles}}

[[Category:Mercedes-Benz platforms|W140]]

Mercedes-Benz ML-Class

2008-02-16T15:01:15Z

201.1.197.31: /* External links */

[[Image:Mercedes benz ml350 silver lighting.jpg|thumb|right|450px|Mercedes-Benz ML350]]
The '''Mercedes-Benz M-Class''' is a 4-door [[SUV]] with light off-road capability, first offered in 1997 as a model year 1998, and built in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, USA. It marked a shift at [[Mercedes-Benz]] in becoming a global player; while it had plants outside Germany before, they merely built facsimiles of German models. In contrast, the M-Class was conceived with the American market in mind and built at an American factory. Despite early negative press about quality control, the M-Class became a huge sales success in the United States. In fact, only the [[Mercedes-Benz C-Class|C-Class]] and [[Mercedes-Benz E-Class|E-Class]] sell better in the US.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Mercedes-Benz M-Class Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===
* The [[Mercedes Benz]] M-Class was introduced in 1998 and underwent a redesign in 2006. For 2007, a new Diesel trim, the ML320 CDI, is added, as well as a high performance ML63 AMG version. While the ML320 CDI is built for optimal fuel efficiency, the ML63 AMG comes with various cosmetic and performance-oriented upgrades, including a more sporty exterior design and interior, chrome exhaust tips, performance wheels, and a powerful 6.3L 503[[hp]] [[V8]] engine.

* For July of 2007, to mark the M-Class' 10 year anniversary, Mercedes-Benz has rolled out a limited edition model dubbed “'''Edition 10'''”.

<gallery>
Image:Carscoop Mercedes MLED10 100.jpg
Image:Carscoop Mercedes MLED10 101.jpg
Image:Carscoop Mercedes MLED10 104.jpg
Image:Carscoop Mercedes MLED10 102.jpg
</gallery>

* Mercedes-Benz has confirmed a hybrid model for the ML-Class arriving in 2009. Dubbed the '''ML450 Hybrid''', the vehicle will be powered by a 265hp (195kW) [[V6]] supplemented by two electric assist motors which produce an additional 56hp (41kW) and total to 377 hp (277kW). According to Mercedes, this will make the ML450 Hybrid the most efficient SUV in its class, returning an estimated 30mpg (7.7L petrol per 100km) fuel economy figure.[http://www.motorauthority.com/cars/mercedes-benz/mercedes-plans-new-hybrid-models/][http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2007/09/frankfurt-premier-2009-mercedes-benz-ml.html]

<gallery>
Image:450MLHYBR.jpg
</gallery>

===Styles and Major Options===
The 2007 M-Class is available in four different trims: the ML350, ML320 CDI, ML500, and ML63 AMG. The ML350 and ML500 continue from 2006, while the ML320 CDI, a diesel model, and the ML63 AMG, a sportier performance model, are new for 2007. Each trim is powered by a different engine, but all of them are equipped with full-time [[four wheel drive]] and a one of a kind 7-speed [[automatic transmission]]. Some of the standout features include:

'''ML 350'''
*3.5L 268[[hp]] [[V6]] engine
*6-way power front bucket seats
*Leatherette seating and door trim
*Front and rear cup holders and reading lights
*Dual zone front automatic air conditioning
*Rear air with separate controls
*8-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system
*Cruise control
*Trip computer
*Power locks, windows, mirrors

'''ML320 CDI'''
*3.0L 215[[hp]] [[V6]] engine, diesel
*All other features identical to ML350
[[image:2007_M-Class_sunsetright.jpg|right|frame]]
'''ML500'''
*5.0L 302[[hp]] [[V8]] engine
*18" silver alloy wheels
*8-way power heated bucket seats
*Premium Leather seating and door trim
*Covered instrument panel
*Cargo net
*Rain detecting wipers
*Chrome body side insert

'''ML63 AMG'''
*6.2L 503[[hp]] [[V8]] engine
*20" silver AMG alloy wheels
*12-way power heated sports seats w/memory
*Nappa Leather seating and door trim
*Express sunroof
*12 speaker harman/kardon AM/FM/SIRIUS/glove-box 6CD audio system
*Cell phone pre-wiring
*Rear parking camera
*Command navigation system
*Body-colored fender flares

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[Mercedes-Benz]] M-Class can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?cat=all&acodes=USB70MBS081A0,USB70MBS121A0,USB70MBS061A0,USB70MBS131A0 CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''M-Class Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
ML350
</td>
<td>
ML320 CDI
</td>
<td>
ML500
</td>
<td>
ML63 AMG
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$43,455
</td>
<td>
$44,455
</td>
<td>
$49,975
</td>
<td>
$86,275
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$39,692
</td>
<td>
$40,622
</td>
<td>
$45,756
</td>
<td>
$79,515
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
ML350
</td>
<td>
ML320 CDI
</td>
<td>
ML500
</td>
<td>
ML63 AMG
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
17/21
</td>
<td>
21/27
</td>
<td>
14/19
</td>
<td>
12/16
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===
*'''RECALL ALERT:''' On January 19th, 2008, Mercedes-Benz announced a recall entailing 9,004 2007 E320 Bluetec, ML320 CDI, and GL320 CDI models due to problems with a defective crankshaft sensor, which would cause the engine to lose power and strand the vehicle, according to the NHTSA. [http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/19/mercedes-benz-usa-recalling-9000-diesel-models/]

===Safety===
According to the [http://www.safercar.gov NHTSA] website, the 2007 M-Class [[SUV]]s received high marks in safety tests. For all front- and side-impact crash tests, it received a 5-Star rating, and for rollover tests it received a 4-Star rating. Some of the safety equipment found on the M-Class includes:
*Four wheel electronic traction system
*Electronic stability program
*[[Electronic brake-force distribution]]
*[[Anti-lock brakes]] with brake assist
*Front and side [[airbag]]s

===Photos===
<gallery>
image:Mercedes Benz ML 400 CDI W163.jpg
image:blackml55.JPG
image:2007_M-Class_dashboardinterior.jpg
image:2007_M-Class_silverwet.jpg
image:2007_M-Class_offroad.jpg
</gallery>
===Colors===
Colors will vary by trim, and a full list is available at [http://www.carsdirect.com/mercedesbenz/ml500/colors CarsDirect.com.] Some of the available combinations include:

'''Exterior'''
*Alabaster White
*Alpine Rain Metallic
*Capri Blue Metallic
*Everest Green Metallic
*Obsidian Black Metallic
*Verde Brook Metallic

'''Interior'''
*Ash
*Black
*Macadamia

===Main Competitors===
*[[Acura MDX]]
*[[Cadillac SRX]]
*[[Lexus RX 330]]
*[[Land Rover Range Rover]]
*[[Infiniti FX]]
*[[BMW X5]]
*[[Porsche Cayenne]]
*[[Cadillac Escalade]]

==Hybrid Models==

==Unique Attributes==

==Resale Values==

==Criticisms==
*"If, like so many SUV buyers today, you'll settle for no fewer than three rows of seats, you'll have to look somewhere else. Mercedes-Benz decided to ashcan its awkward third-row seating in the new iteration of the M-Class." - Kelley Blue Book

==Current Generation: (2006–Present)==
[[image:2007_M-Class_champagneleft.jpg|right|350px]]
The redesigned M-class (chassis name ''W164'') was introduced to the public in April 2005 as a 2006 model after showing at the North American International Auto Show in January. It is almost entirely new, with a more sporting, aerodynamic look—the coefficient of drag is down to 0.34. Mercedes-Benz has also made the new M-class larger, measuring 150 mm longer than the first model. The M-Class was named "Best New Sport Utility Vehicle" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards.

Due to public knowledge of poor quality control at the Alabama factory, Mercedes-Benz extensively publicized the US$600 million spent to improve the factory. According to early automotive press reports, the 2006 M-Class vehicles demonstrate vast improvements in build quality.

The platform is shared with the new [[Mercedes-Benz R-Class|R-Class]] and [[Mercedes-Benz GL-Class|GL-Class]], and is a unibody type rather than the body-on-frame used by the last M and G-Class vehicles.

New features in the 2006 M-Class include the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed transmission, optional Active Curve-Illuminating Bi-Xenon headlights which "steer" in the path of the vehicle, and an adjustable-height air suspension. The base price for the ML350 in the US is about US$40,000.

4-valve engines are replacing the previous 3-valve [[SOHC]] [[V6|V6]] and current 3-valve V8:
* '''ML350''' - 3.5 L 4-valve [[V6|V6]], 200 kW (272 [[HP|hp]] DIN) and 350 N·m (258 ft·lbf)
* '''ML500''' - 5.0 L 3-valve V8, 215 kW (292 [[HP|hp]] DIN) and 336 ft·lbf (455 N·m)
* '''ML450''' - 4.6 L 4-valve V8, 325 [[HP|hp]] (242 kW) and 370 ft·lbf (500 N·m)
* '''ML550''' - 5.5 L 4-valve V8, 410 [[HP|hp]] (306 kW) and 405 ft·lbf (550 N·m)
* '''ML63 AMG''' - 6.2 L 4-valve V8, 510 [[HP|hp]] (347 kW)
* '''ML280 CDI''' - 3.0 L [[V6|V6]] [[Turbo Engine|Turbo]] Diesel, 140 kW (190 [[HP|hp]] DIN) and 440 N·m (325 ft·lbf)
* '''ML320 CDI''' - 3.0 L [[V6|V6]] [[Turbo Engine|Turbo]] Diesel, 165 kW (224 [[HP|hp]] DIN) and 510 N·m (376 ft·lbf)
* '''ML400 CDI''' - 4.0 L Bi[[Turbo]] V8, 315 [[HP|hp]] (235 kW) and 516 ft·lbf (700 N·m)

====ML63 AMG====
The AMG version of the W164, the '''ML63 AMG''', was introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show as a 2007 model. It features a 6.2 L ''M156'' [[V8]] engine producing 503 [[HP|hp]] (375 kW) and 465 ft·lbf (630 N·m) of torque. Mercedes-Benz's 7G-TRONIC seven-speed [[automatic transmission]] is standard.

==First Generation/Origins (1998-2005)==
At launch, the M-Class was a technological 'tour de force'. It was the first SUV to feature [[Electronic Stability Control|stability control]], a system designed to detect loss of control and instantaneously intervene with selective braking to bring the vehicle back on its intended course. This system is now hailed by safety experts, and studies have shown stability control and systems like it are capable of reducing single vehicle crashes by up to 30 percent. Furthermore, the M-Class boasted front and side-impact airbags with advanced occupant detection for the front passenger seat, which, combined with Mercedes' legendary safety structure, earned the M-Class the highest marks in insurance industry crash tests.

Initial quality was poor, and jokes about an "Alabama Mercedes" began to make the rounds. A road test on the British programme ''Top Gear'' revealed that the presenter, Jeremy Clarkson, could put his fingers into the gap below the rear lights and above the rear bumper. This improved over the years, especially after a mild facelift for 2002. However, owners are often unhappy with the car's quality - for example, the car was placed last out of 142 cars in the ''Top Gear'' Motoring Survey 2004. [[DaimlerChrysler]] spent US$600 million on improvements at the Alabama factory before launching the second-generation ML in 2005.

Major model variants have included the ML320, ML350, ML430, ML500 and ML55, along with the ML230 and the turbodiesel ML270 CDI and ML400 CDI in Europe. The ML55, or ML55 AMG, featured a [[V8]] engine made by Aufrecht Melcher Grossaspach (AMG), modified body-work, and other performance features. Prices initially were around US$35,000 for the base model in the late 1990s. The ML350 replaced the ML320 as the base model in the United States a few years after its introduction by [[Mercedes-Benz]].

The M-Class was ''Motor Trend'' magazine's Truck of the Year for 1998.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Mercedes-Benz}}

==External links==
*[http://www.mercedes-benz.com Mercedes-Benz International]
*[http://www.modernoffroader.com/carcutaways/carcutawaymercedesbenzml500.html ModernOffroader.com cutaway drawing]
*[http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2007/07/mercedes-benz-m-class-edition-10.html Mercedes-Benz M-Class "Edition 10"]
*[http://fmbb.livreforum.com/classe-m-w163-w164-c20 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_M-Class Mercedes-Benz M-Class], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mercedes-Benz_M-Class&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Current Models]]
[[Category:Mercedes-Benz vehicles|M-Class]]
[[Category:SUVs]]
[[Category:Luxury vehicles]]
[[Category:All wheel drive vehicles]]

Mercedes-Benz C111

2008-02-16T14:55:11Z

201.1.197.31: /* External Links */

Mercedes-Benz 600

2008-02-16T14:52:01Z

201.1.197.31:

:''See also [[Mercedes-Benz 600 (disambiguation)]] for other models called "600"''

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Merc600pullman.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Mercedes-Benz 600'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Mercedes-Benz]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| {{{aka (Type here, not up there)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| {{{produced from when to when+total units made (optional)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| {{{Class}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| {{{Body-Style}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| {{{length - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| {{{Width - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| {{{Height - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| {{{wheelbase - type here}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| {{{Weight - you get the point}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| {{{transmission + drive}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| {{{engine}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| {{{Horsepower and Torque rating}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| {{{similar (competition)}}}
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''[[Mercedes-Benz]] 600''' was a large luxury [[automobile]]. It was intended to represent the absolute pinnacle of [[automobile]] engineering, and when introduced in 1963 had few competitors. Production began in 1965 after two years of ramp-up, with most styles built through 1972. Modest production continued to 1981, however. During this time, 2,677 vehicles were made.

The model featured many luxuries, including a complex [[hydraulic]] system which powered everything from the windows and seats to the automatic closing doors. The model came in several variants:
* A 4-door sedan on a short wheelbase, similar to a modern [[Mercedes-Benz S-Class|S600]] sedan in layout.
* A 4-door sedan on a short wheelbase but with a power window separating the front seats from the rear bench seat.
* A 4-door limousine on a longer wheelbase featuring two rear-facing seats and a rear bench seat. Most, but not all, had power windows.
* A 6-door limousine on a long wheelbase chassis. This had two forward facing jump seats stationed at the middle two doors and a rear bench seat.
* A few of the limousines were made with a convertible top over the rear passenger compartment and were called [[landaulet]]s. Production of this model ended a year early, in 1971.
* Two [[coupé]]s were made (one of them as a gift for Dr. Uhlenhaut, the man that designed the car, when he retired.)
* One funeral coach ([[hearse]]) was made. This car, and the two coupés mentioned above, survive to the present day in the United States.

The 600 was so heavy that a massive 6.3L [[V8]] engine with [[overhead cam]]shafts and [[Bosch]] mechanical [[fuel injection]] was specially developed to move the vehicle. Adjustable [[air suspension]] gave the car a smooth ride and good handling over any road surface, although the car's agility was inevitably compromised by its mass.

Produced until 1980 in extremely limited numbers, this model had no equal in the [[Mercedes-Benz]] lineup until the introduction of the modern [[Maybach 62|Maybach 57 and 62]] models.

The 600's "M-100" engine and air suspension were fitted to the [[Mercedes-Benz_300SEL_6.3|300SEL 6.3]] model in 1966, providing the lighter (and more affordable) car with more competent suspension. Upon the introduction of the "W116" chassis, a larger version of the M-100 was installed in the limited-production [[Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9|6.9]].

Famous owners of the 600 include Hugh Hefner, Elizabeth Taylor, John Lennon, Jason Kay, Aristotle Onassis, Nicolae Ceauşescu, Josip Broz-Tito, Mao Zedong, Heikki Valkama, Simon Spies and Elvis Presley.

==External links==
* [http://fmbb.livreforum.com/600-w100-c29 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

{{Mercedes-Benz}}

{{Classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles}}

[[Category:Mercedes-Benz vehicles|600]]

Mercedes-Benz 220SE

2008-02-16T14:49:49Z

201.1.197.31: /* External links */

Mercedes-Benz 300SL

2008-02-16T14:47:33Z

201.1.197.31: /* References */

:''This article is about the car produced from 1952 to 1963, for other cars with the same name, see [[Mercedes-Benz SL-Class]].''

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:1955 mercedes benz 300sl gu.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''Mercedes-Benz 300SL'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Mercedes-Benz]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| W198<br>Mercedes Benz 300 SLR<br>"Gullwing"<br>The World's First True Supercar
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1952 - 1963<br>1400 units
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| [[sports car]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| 2 door [[coupé]], [[roadster]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 178 in (4520 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 70.5 in (1790 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 51.1 in (1300 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 94.5 in (2400 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2352 lb (1093 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-speed Manual, RWD
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3 litre (2995cc) [[SOHC]] Mercedes [[Inline-6]] with [[Bosch]] mechanical fuel injection
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 215 hp @ 5800 rpm<br>170 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ 3800 rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Aston Martin DB 3]]<br>[[Jaguar E-type]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}
The '''Mercedes-Benz 300SL''' is a two-seat, closed [[sports car]] with characteristic [[gull-wing door]]s, and later, offered as an open [[roadster]].

Built by [[Daimler-Benz]] AG and internally numbered W198, the road version of 1952 was based (somewhat loosely) on the company's highly successful competition-only sports car of 1950, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL (W194) which had less power, as it still had carburetors.

This model was suggested by [[Max Hoffman]]. Because it was intended for customers whose preferences were reported to Hoffman by dealers he supplied in the booming, post-war American market, it was introduced at the 1954 [[New York Auto Show]]—unlike previous models introduced at either the [[Frankfurt Motor Show|Frankfurt]] or [[Geneva Motor Show|Geneva]] shows. The 300SL was best known for both its distinctive ''gullwing'' or ''butterfly wing'' doors and for being the first-ever [[Gasoline engine|gasoline-powered car]] equipped with [[fuel injection]] directly into the combustion chamber. The gullwing version was available from March 1955 to 1957. In Mercedes-Benz fashion, the "300" referred to the engine's cylinder displacement, in this case, three liters. The "SL", as applied to a roadster, stood for ''"Sport Leicht"'' or "Sport Light."

More widely produced (25,881 units) and starting in 1954 was the similar looking 190SL with a 105hp 4cyl engine, available only as roadster (or with an additional hardtop, as [[Coupe Roadster]]). The 190SL was equivalent to today's SLK in its market positioning when compared to the SL. Production for both the 190SL and 300SL ended in 1963 when the 230SL was introduced.

==A race car for the street==

{{commonscat|1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe}}
The gullwing doors, hinged at the roof and so named because the open doors resembled a bird's outstretched wings, were implemented as such to accommodate for the car's tubular chassis, designed by DBAG's chief developing engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Part of the chassis passed through what would be the lower half of a standard door. This tubular chassis was a necessity, as the original car was designed solely for racing and needed to be as light as possible due to the rather underpowered original, carbureted, engine, while still providing a high level of strength. This required the driver and any passengers to do some gymnastics to get in or out of the car, usually by sitting on and sliding across the wide door sill. A steering wheel with a tilt-away column made the process considerably easier.

It was [[Max Hoffman]], Daimler-Benz's official importer in the USA, who convinced DBAG management in Stuttgart that a street version of the 300SL would be a commercial success, especially in the US. Hoffman's prediction was correct since more than 80% of the vehicle's total production of approximately 1400 units were sold in the US, making the Gullwing the first Mercedes-Benz which sold in bulk outside its home market. The 300SL is credited for changing the company's image in America from a manufacturer of solid, but staid, automobiles to that of a producer of sporty cars.

Built completely with steel except for the aluminium bonnet (hood), doors and boot (trunk), the 300SL could have been ordered with an all-aluminium outer skin, saving 80 kg (176 lb), but at tremendous added cost.

==First with fuel injection==

The engine, canted at a fifty-degree angle to the left to allow for a lower hoodline, was the same 3.0 liter [[straight-6]] as the regular four-door 300 but with a [[Robert Bosch GmbH|Bosch]] mechanical [[fuel injection]] system that more than doubled its power from 86 kW (115 hp) in its original carbureted trim to 180 kW (240 hp) at 6100 rpm. This new injection system, a first in any gasoline-powered car (apart from the rather small [[Gutbrod]] where the Mercedes engineers had to work after the war), allowed a top speed of 260 km/h (161 mph) depending on [[gear ratio]] (several options), making the 300SL the fastest production car of its time. The maintenance requirements were high as, unlike the current electrically powered fuel injection systems, the mechanical fuel pump would continue to inject gasoline into the engine during the interval between shutting off the ignition and the engine's coming to a stop; this gasoline was of course not burned, and washed the oil from the cylinder walls and ended up diluting the engine's lubricating oil, particularly if the engine was not driven hard enough nor long enough to reach a temperature high enough to evaporate it out of the oil. Exacerbating the problem were the large [[oil cooler]] as well as the large volume of oil (10 liters), both oriented more to racing than to street driving, which virtually guaranteed that the oil would not reach a high enough temperature. In practice, many street drivers would block off airflow through the oil cooler, and the recommended oil change interval was 1,000 miles.

Aerodynamics played an important role in the car's speed. Mercedes-Benz engineers even went so far as to place horizontal "eyebrows" over the wheel openings. Given the car's overall styling, it has been suggested that the eyebrows were added to make the car more appealing to American buyers rather than to serve any functional purpose since American cars of the period were rather flamboyant by comparison to the 300SL. Unlike many cars of the 1950s, the steering was rather precise and the four-wheel independent suspension allowed for a reasonably comfortable ride and markedly better overall handling. However, the rear [[swing axle]], jointed only at the differential, not at the wheels themselves, could be treacherous at high speeds or on imperfect roads due to extreme changes in [[Camber angle|camber]].

==Racing history and the 300SL today==
[[Image:800px-Mercedes-Benz_300_SL_Transaxle.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Mercedes-Benz 300SL Transaxle, the 1953 prototype used in the return to motorsports]]
In 1952, the 300SL racing history includes overall wins at [[24 Hours of Le Mans|Le Mans]], [[Berne]], [[Nürburgring]], and Mexico's [[Carrera Panamericana]]. It also managed second and fourth places at its first outing, the [[Mille Miglia]] in 1952. These successes, especially those on the high speed open road races, were rather surprising as the engine was fitted with carburetors and produced only 175 hp, less than the competiting models of [[Ferrari]] and [[Jaguar|Jaguar]], and less than the road car later on. But low weight and low aerodynamic drag made the 300SL fast enough to be a challenger. Superior reliability made it a winner.

The 1955 sports racing car, named [[Mercedes-Benz 300SLR]], was not based on the road 300SL, but on the [[Formula 1]] [[Mercedes-Benz W196]] race car with 8 cylinders in line. The engine capacity was enlarged from 2500cc to 3000cc, and it was powered by standard gasoline rather than a fuel mix including methanol. It won the 1955 [[Mille Miglia]] (with [[Stirling Moss]] at the wheel) with an average speed of 157.65 km/h in 1,600 km (97.96 mph in 994 miles). The 300SLR scored additional victories in Germany, Sweden, Ireland and at the [[Targa Florio]] in Sicily, and won the world championship for sports cars in the constructors' ranking. The 300SLR was withdrawn from the [[1955 Le Mans disaster]] while leading, after a horrific accident involving one of the team's cars killed 82 spectators. In 2005, a 300SL Gull Wing driven by 87 year old [[John Fitch|John Fitch]], one of the SLR Factory drivers in the 1955 Le Mans race and the GT class winner in MM driving a factory prepaired 300 SL Gull Wing, attempted to set a new F/GT class record for [[land speed record]] at [[Bonneville Speedway]], but was thwarted by a balky [[fuel pump]] that limited top speed to 150 mph. After the run, the team vowed to return for a second attempt the next year. Fitch noted that he had driven these cars faster than that at night, in the rain, on the road with 60 other cars. The attempt is documented in the film ''Gullwing at Twilight: The Bonneville Ride of John Fitch'', which was aired on PBS [http://szwedo.com/gullwing.htm].

Today, the 300SL with its unique doors and technological firsts is considered one of the most collectible Mercedes-Benz models of all time, with prices reaching well past the US$400,000 mark. In addition, [[Sports Car International Top Sports Cars|Sports Car International]] magazine ranked the 300SL as the number 5 sports car of all time.

The [[Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren]] is inspired by these 1950s automobiles.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
Image:Mercedes-Benz-300-SL-Coupe-FA-DO-1024x768.jpg
Image:Mercedes-Benz-300-SL-Coupe-RS-Studio-DO-1280x960.jpg
</gallery>

==References==
{{commonscat|Mercedes-Benz W198}}
* ''Mercedes Momentum'' magazine, Fall 2004 edition
* ''Sports and Classic Cars'', Bonanza Books, New York. 1955, Borgeson G. and Jaderquist E.
* [http://www.mercedes-benz.com/mbcom/international/international_website/en/com/international_home/home/heritage/history.html#mainnav Mercedes-Benz.com]
* [http://www.ritzsite.net/300SL/01_300SL.htm Ritz Site: Pictures and information from an enthusiast's angle]
* [http://www.best-classics.de/mb History, Pictures, Videos, Brochures etc.]
* [http://fmbb.livreforum.com/300sl-r-c198-c28 Fórum Mercedes-Benz Brasil]

{{Mercedes-Benz}}

{{Classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles}}

[[Category:Mercedes-Benz vehicles|300SL]]
[[Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Sports cars]]
[[Category:Racing cars]]
[[Category:Supercars]]
[[Category:Roadsters]]