Mercedes-Benz Race Cars
Mercedes Racing & Competition Models. 200+ Race Cars.
For over a century, the three-pointed star has been synonymous with motorsport excellence. From the pioneering days of Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler to the cutting-edge technology of modern Formula 1, Mercedes-Benz has consistently pushed the boundaries of speed, innovation, and engineering prowess. This ultimate guide takes you on a thrilling journey through the history of Mercedes-Benz race cars, exploring every era and discipline where the Silver Arrows have left their indelible mark.
Benz / Daimler & Merc / Pre-War / Post-War / Formula One / Group C, GT1, DTM Racers
Every Mercedes Race Car Ever Made
Buckle up and prepare to be amazed by the sheer breadth and depth of Mercedes-Benz's racing heritage. We'll delve into the early days of motor racing, where Benz and Daimler cars laid the foundation for a legacy of speed. We'll witness the rise of the iconic Silver Arrows in pre-war Grand Prix racing, the dominant performances in Group C and GT1 endurance racing, and the consistent success in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM). We'll explore the technological marvels of Formula 1, from the legendary W196 to the hybrid era powerhouses, and even delve into the fascinating world of customer racing cars that have allowed privateers to experience the thrill of Mercedes-Benz performance. Whether you're a die-hard motorsport enthusiast or simply curious about the history of one of the most successful automotive brands in racing, this guide is your comprehensive resource. Get ready to discover the stories behind the legendary cars, the drivers who pushed them to their limits, and the engineers who crafted these masterpieces of speed and technology. Welcome to the world of Mercedes-Benz race cars – a legacy forged in the crucible of competition and driven by a relentless pursuit of victory.
Benz Touring, Racing & Record Cars (1894 - 1926)
Benz was a pioneer in the early days of motor racing, and their cars from the late 1800s and early 1900s played a crucial role in shaping the sport. Benz's first cars, like the Vis-à-Vis, weren't designed for racing. However, they were modified and entered into early competitions like the 1895 Chicago Times-Herald race, demonstrating the potential of the automobile. These early cars were basic, with low-powered engines and rudimentary technology, but they were a starting point. As motor racing gained popularity, Benz started developing cars specifically for competition. The Benz 60 hp "Kaiserpreis" racing car (1907) is a prime example. Built for a prestigious German race, it showcased a powerful engine and lightweight construction. Although it faced setbacks in the race, it represented Benz's growing commitment to motorsport. Benz engineers constantly sought ways to improve performance. The Benz 200 hp "Lightning Benz" (1909-1913) was a testament to this pursuit of speed. With its massive engine and aerodynamic design, it shattered land speed records, reaching over 130 mph and becoming a legend in its time. These early Benz racing cars, despite their limitations compared to modern standards, were instrumental in advancing automotive technology and establishing Benz as a force in motorsports. They laid the foundation for the company's future successes in racing and contributed significantly to the development of the automobile as a whole.
Benz Vis-à-Vis (1894 – 1895)
Benz 8 hp (1899)
Benz 16 hp (1900)
Benz 20 hp (1900)
Benz "Parsifal" 60 hp (1903)
Benz 60 hp "Targa Florio" (1907)
Benz 120 hp Grand Prix (1908)
Benz 150 hp (1908)
Benz 200 hp "Lightning Benz" (1909 – 1913)
Benz 60 hp "Kaiserpreis" (1907)
Benz 25 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1908)
Benz 50 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1908)
Benz 75 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1908)
Benz 20 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1909)
Benz 50 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1909)
Benz 80 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1910)
Benz 100 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1910)
Benz 6/18 hp (1921)
Benz 10/30 hp (1921)
Benz RH 2-litre "Teardrop" (1923 – 1925)
Benz RHZ 2L "Teardrop" (1924 – 1926)
Benz RH 2L "Teardrop" Hillclimb (1925 – 1926)
Benz 16/50 PS (1924 – 1926)
Benz Vis-à-Vis
1894 - 1895
Émile Roger also used the publicity generated by the first races to promote the vehicles he sold. He entered the Vis-à-Vis model in both the Paris–Rouen reliability race in July 1894 and the Paris–Bordeaux–Paris race, and also took the wheel himself in both events.
Benz 8 hp
1899
The first car designed specifically for use in motorsport was the Benz 8 hp racing car from 1899. It was powered by an engine with a completely new design: shortly after the "twin engine" conceived by the company founder in 1897, a two-cylinder with coupled cylinders.
Benz 16 hp
1900
In its very first sporting outing, the 136 km Eisenach - Oberhof - Meiningen - Eisenach mountain tour of May 1900, the Benz 16 hp racing car, driven by Fritz Scarisbrick from Hanau, came second. The 16 hp also proved its competitiveness by winning the Nuremberg.
Benz 20 hp
1900
In order to do justice to the growing diversity of the racing types, Georg Diehl, who had been head of the design department at Benz & Cie. since 1899, created the 20 hp racing car in 1900. This was a car designed for competing in short-distance and track races.
Benz "Parsifal" 60 hp
1903
In 1903 we got a racing car which, with its pronouncedly low silhouette, took up the concept of the latest Benz passenger cars and, like these, was given the name "Parsifal". The Parsifal racing car had a newly developed four-cylinder inline engine.
Benz 60 hp "Targa Florio"
1907
In 1904 and 1905 there was no factory involvement in motorsport and consequently no notable successes, but in 1906 a new high-performance racing car was developed whose design and technical specifications made it a serious competitor for the Mercedes.
Benz 120 hp Grand Prix
1908
After the encouraging results achieved in 1907, Benz & Cie. in Mannheim was aiming to become involved in the top categories of the most important racing events for the 1908 motorsport season. To be competitive at this level, a completely redesigned car was needed.
Benz 150 hp
1908
Even when designing the 12-litre four-cylinder engine that helped the Benz 120 hp Grand Prix racing car to a series of remarkable successes in 1908, Belgian designer Louis de Groulart had already been envisaging a more powerful variant. That was the 150hp of 1908.
Benz 200 hp "Lightning Benz"
1909 - 1913
The Benz 200 hp "Lightning Benz" was a groundbreaking race car that shattered land speed records. Its massive 21.5-liter engine propelled it to become the first car to officially exceed 130 mph, making it faster than any other land vehicle, train, or airplane at the time.
Benz 60 hp "Kaiserpreis"
1907
The Benz 60 hp "Kaiserpreis" racing car was specifically designed for the 1907 Kaiserpreis race, a German competition aimed at promoting the development of touring cars. It featured a powerful 8-liter engine and a lightweight design, adhering to strict regulations.
Benz 25/50/75 hp "Prince Heinrich"
1908
The first Prinz-Heinrich-Fahrt was organised from 9 to 17 June 1908. Benz had prepared a total of nine cars – five with a nominal output of 50 hp and two each with 75 hp. As the regulations stipulated the bore dimensions of the individual displacement classes
Benz 25/50/75 hp "Prince Heinrich"
1909
After the 1908 Prinz-Heinrich-Fahrt, people regretted that all the prizes were won by factory drivers in special touring cars. That meant new regulations for the 1909 Prinz-Heinrich-Fahrt by introducing a handicap for factory drivers and very precise regulations.
Benz 80/100 hp "Prince Heinrich"
1910
Benz & Cie. once again took part in the third edition of the Prinz-Heinrich-Fahrt with a delegation of ten specially designed touring cars. Four of them were equipped with a 5.7-litre engine with 80 hp/59 kW and the other six with a 7.3L 4-cyl engine with 100 hp/74 kW.
Benz 6/18 hp
1921
The Benz 6/18 hp racing car, introduced in 1921, was a significant step forward for Benz in motorsport. It featured a 1.6-liter engine with an innovative overhead camshaft design, which was quite advanced for the time. This gave the engine more power and higher rev-range.
Benz 10/30 hp
1921
Benz & Cie produced various racing cars based on production cars in the early 1920s. In addition to the compact 6/18 hp racing car with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, 1921 saw production of the 10/30 hp racing car with a four-cylinder engine and a displacement of around 2.6 litres.
Benz RH 2-litre "Teardrop"
1923 - 1925
A revolutionary design featuring a streamlined, aerodynamic body and a mid-engine layout, making it a pioneer in innovative race car engineering. It didn't achieve big victories, its 4-valve cylinder head and independent suspension heavily influenced future race car design.
Benz RHZ 2L "Teardrop"
1924 - 1926
After the rather sobering results of the innovative racing car in top-class sport, Benz & Cie. developed a sports car version of the teardrop car with identical technical specifications and additional wings, lighting and small sports windscreens.
Benz RH 2L "Teardrop" Hillclimb
1925 - 1926
A third version of the Benz teardrop racing car was created in 1925. Developed especially for hill climbs it was no longer quite as teardrop-shaped as the original version thanks to a radiator located in the front. The cooling was suited to hill climbs.
Benz 16/50 PS (1924 – 1926)
1924 - 1926
It was a popular choice for wealthy individuals and even saw some use as a racing car. Interestingly, it was one of the last models developed independently by Benz before the company merged with Daimler to form Daimler-Benz AG in 1926.
Daimler and Mercedes Touring, Racing & Record Cars (1894 - 1926)
Both Daimler and Mercedes, before they merged to form Daimler-Benz, were vital players in the burgeoning world of motor racing in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Daimler engines powered some of the very first race cars. In the 1894 Paris-Rouen race, considered the world's first motor race, Daimler-powered cars took first and second place. This early success established Daimler's reputation for performance. They developed key technologies like the "Phoenix" engine (1894), which featured a spray nozzle carburetor and improved performance. Emil Jellinek, a wealthy businessman and racing enthusiast, commissioned Daimler to build a series of powerful cars named after his daughter, Mercedes. The first Mercedes, the 35 hp model (1901), was a sensation, dominating races like the Nice-La Turbie hill climb. This marked the beginning of a legendary partnership between Daimler and the Mercedes name.
The early Mercedes cars were technological marvels, featuring powerful engines, lightweight construction, and advanced features like honeycomb radiators. They quickly became the dominant force in racing, winning events like the Gordon Bennett Cup and the French Grand Prix. Mercedes continued to innovate, developing cars like the 1907 Mercedes 75 hp with a massive 14-liter engine. These cars set new standards for speed and performance, solidifying Mercedes' reputation as a leader in motor racing. Daimler's focus on innovation and Mercedes' pursuit of racing dominance laid the groundwork for the future success of Daimler-Benz.
Panhard & Levassor (1894 – 1896)
Peugeot (1894 – 1896)
Daimler "Phoenix" 12 hp (1899)
Daimler "Phoenix" 23 hp "La Turbie" (1900)
Mercedes 35 hp (1900 / 1901)
Mercedes-Simplex 40 hp (1902)
Mercedes-Simplex "Gordon Bennett" (1903)
Mercedes 90 hp (1903)
Mercedes 90 hp (1904)
Mercedes 120 hp "Gordon Bennett" (1905)
Mercedes 120 hp (1906)
Mercedes 120 hp Grand Prix (1906)
Mercedes 120 hp Grand Prix (1907)
Mercedes 140 hp Grand Prix (1908)
Mercedes 150 hp "Semmering" (1908)
Mercedes 37/90 hp (1911)
Mercedes 90 hp Grand Prix (1913)
Mercedes 100 hp Grand Prix (1913)
Mercedes 115 hp Grand Prix (1914)
Mercedes 80 hp "Kaiserpreis" (1907)
Mercedes 90 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1908)
Mercedes 25 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1909)
Mercedes 18/65 hp "Prince Heinrich" (1910)
Mercedes-Knight 16/40 hp Touring (1913)
Mercedes 28/95 hp (1921)
Mercedes 4.5-litre Grand Prix (1922)
Mercedes 1.5-litre (1922)
Mercedes 10/40/65 hp (1923)
Mercedes 2-litre Indianapolis (1923)
Mercedes 2-litre streamlined (1924)
Mercedes 6/40/65 hp (1924)
Mercedes 2-litre "Targa Florio" (1924)
Mercedes 4.5-litre (1924)
Mercedes 2-litre 8-cyl "Monza" (1924)
Mercedes 2-litre 8-cyl hillclimb (1925)
Mercedes 2-litre 8-cylinder AVUS (1926)
Mercedes 15/70/100 hp (1924 - 1926)
Mercedes 24/100/140 hp (1924 - 1926)
Daimler "Phoenix" 12 hp
1899
The Nice - La Turbie race was the world's first hill climb. DMG had delivered Phoenix cars with four-cylinder engines to the Cote d'Azur - three with a rated output of 10 hp and one with 12 hp. The vehicles were registered as 8 hp and 14 hp.
Daimler "Phoenix" 23 hp "La Turbie"
1900
For the second "Semaine de Nice" the Daimler Phoenix racing cars were further developed. The first item on the agenda was to increase engine output: a four-cylinder engine with an increased capacity of 5.5 litres, now good for 23hp.
Mercedes 35 hp
1900 - 1901
Dominated the racing scene. Driven by legendary racer Wilhelm Werner, the 35 hp achieved significant victories in events like the Nice-La Turbie hill climb, establishing Mercedes as a force to be reckoned with in motorsports.
Mercedes-Simplex 40 hp
1902
A direct successor to the groundbreaking 35 hp model. It featured a larger, more powerful engine it continued Mercedes' dominance in motorsport, achieving notable victories in races like the Paris-Vienna and Semmering hill climb.
Mercedes-Simplex 60 hp "Gordon Bennett"
1903
The Mercedes-Simplex 60 hp "Gordon Bennett" (1903) was a purpose-built racing car designed specifically for the prestigious Gordon Bennett Cup. It boasted a massive 9.2-liter four-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 60 horsepower.
Mercedes 90 hp
1903
Developed alongside the 60 hp "Gordon Bennett" car, it shared the same basic engine design but with a larger displacement, generating a monstrous (for the time) 90 horsepower. Sadly, the first 90 hp built was destroyed in a factory fire before it could compete.
Mercedes 90 hp
1904
It retained the massive 9.2-liter engine, but with a slightly smaller bore and higher engine speed to compensate. This iteration of the 90 hp proved to be incredibly fast, setting a new land speed record of 156.5 km/h with Baron Pierre de Caters at the wheel.
Mercedes 120 hp "Gordon Bennett"
1905
A powerful contender built for the Gordon Bennett Cup. It had a 13.5-liter 4-cylinder engin. Despite high expectations it faced challenges with reliability and tire technology, ultimately falling short of victory in the Gordon Bennett Cup and the Vanderbilt Cup.
Mercedes 120 hp
1906
This powerful engine, displacing over 11 liters, produced 120 horsepower and propelled the car to impressive speeds. The 120 hp did find success in other races, with Otto Salzer notably winning the 5th Ardennes race. This car represented a key step in engine development.
Mercedes 120 hp Grand Prix
1906
The Mercedes 120 hp of 1906 marked a significant milestone as the first six-cylinder racing car designed by Wilhelm Maybach. This powerful engine produced 120 horsepower. Though intended for the 1906 Grand Prix, it was withdrawn due to insufficient testing.
Mercedes 120 hp Grand Prix
1907
The Mercedes 120 hp Grand Prix car of 1907 was designed to compete in the French Grand Prix. It featured a massive 14.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an innovative overhead camshaft, a first for Mercedes. It ultimately finished in tenth place against stiff competition.
Mercedes 140 hp Grand Prix
1908
The Mercedes 140 hp Grand Prix car of 1908 was a dominant force in motorsport, securing a resounding victory at the French Grand Prix that year. Driven by Christian Lautenschlager, it showcased a powerful 12.8-liter four-cylinder engine and a lightweight design.
Mercedes 150 hp "Semmering"
1908
The Mercedes 150 hp "Semmering" of 1908 was a powerful racing car specifically designed for hill climb events. It had a 17.3L four-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 150 hp. Driven by Otto Salzer, the "Semmering" dominated the 1908 and 1909 Semmering races.
Mercedes 37/90 hp
1911
The Mercedes 37/90 hp, introduced in 1911, was a powerful touring car that also proved its mettle on the racetrack. While it was a luxury car, a modified version with a streamlined body, driven by Ralph DePalma, won the Vanderbilt Cup in both 1912 and 1914.
Mercedes 90 hp Grand Prix
1913
A significant shift in design philosophy for Mercedes. It featured a sleek, streamlined body with a distinctive V-shaped radiator, a departure from the traditional designs of earlier cars. Under the hood was a powerful 7.3-liter six-cylinder engine which produced around 90 hp.
Mercedes 100 hp Grand Prix
1913
The Mercedes 100 hp Grand Prix was a unique entry in that year's French Grand Prix, standing out from its teammates with its 4-cylinder. Piloted by the French driver Théodore Pilette, it showcased a more traditional design compared to the streamlined bodies of the 90 hp cars.
Mercedes 115 hp Grand Prix
1914
The Mercedes 115 hp Grand Prix car of 1914 was a technological marvel that dominated the racing scene. Its advanced 4.5-liter four-cylinder engine featured an overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder. This car achieved a historic 1-2-3 finish at the French Grand Prix.
Mercedes 80 hp "Kaiserpreis"
1907
The Mercedes 80 hp "Kaiserpreis" race car of 1907 was a formidable machine built specifically for the Kaiserpreis race. Despite its advanced engineering and the skills of drivers like Camille Jenatzy, the car faced tough competition and ultimately fell short of victory.
Mercedes 90 hp "Prince Heinrich"
1908
The Mercedes 90 hp "Prince Heinrich" of 1908 was a powerful touring car built for the Prince Heinrich Tour. The Mercedes 90 hp featured a 9.1-liter four-cylinder engine and a durable chassis, proving its reliability and performance over long distances. It didn't secure the overall win.
Mercedes 25 hp "Prince Heinrich"
1909
The Mercedes 25 hp "Prince Heinrich" of 1909 was a sporty touring car designed to compete in the Prince Heinrich Tour. Unlike the larger, more powerful Mercedes race cars, this model focused on a balance of performance and practicality. It featured a 3.6-liter four-cylinder engine.
Mercedes 18/65 hp "Prince Heinrich"
1910
The Mercedes 18/65 hp "Prince Heinrich" of 1910 was a purpose-built touring car designed for the demanding Prince Heinrich Tour. It featured a 4.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 65 horsepower, coupled with a lightweight and aerodynamic body.
Mercedes-Knight 16/40 hp touring
1913
The Mercedes-Knight 16/40 hp touring car of 1913 was a unique offering, featuring a Knight sleeve-valve engine instead of the traditional poppet valve design. While primarily intended as a luxury touring car, some 16/40 hp models were modified for racing.
Mercedes 28/95 hp
1921
In 1921, Max Sailer drove a modified 28/95 hp to a class victory and second place overall in the challenging Targa Florio road race in Sicily, demonstrating its capabilities in motorsport. The 28/95 hp represented a blend of luxury, performance, and innovation.
Mercedes 4.5-litre Grand Prix
1922
Designed by Paul Daimler, it featured a 4.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an innovative supercharger, a technology that would become synonymous with Mercedes performance in the years to come. This forced induction system boosted power output significantly.
Mercedes 1.5-litre
1922
The Mercedes 1.5-litre race car of 1922 was a small but mighty contender, notable for being one of the first Mercedes to utilize a supercharger in competition. This innovative forced induction system, applied to a relatively small 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, significantly boosted power output, allowing the car to punch above its weight.
Mercedes 10/40/65 hp
1923
This 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced 40 horsepower under normal aspiration, but with the supercharger engaged, it delivered an impressive 65 horsepower. The 10/40/65 hp was offered in various body styles, including sporty two-seaters and elegant tourers, showcasing Mercedes' commitment to both performance and luxury.
Mercedes 2-litre Indianapolis
1923
The Mercedes 2-litre Indianapolis of 1923 was a purpose-built race car designed specifically for the Indianapolis 500. It featured a supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, developed from their successful 1.5-liter racing engine, which produced around 120 horsepower. This marked the first time Mercedes had entered the famed American race.
Mercedes 2-litre streamlined
1924
The Mercedes 2-litre streamlined race car of 1924 was a pioneering vehicle in aerodynamic design. Developed for endurance races like the Targa Florio, it featured a sleek, wind-cheating body that significantly reduced drag, allowing for higher top speeds. This car, driven by Christian Werner, secured a remarkable victory at the 1924 Targa Florio.
Mercedes 6/40/65 hp
1924
The Mercedes 6/40/65 hp of 1924 was a luxurious and powerful touring car that showcased Mercedes' innovative supercharger technology. Its 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine produced 40 horsepower under normal aspiration, but with the Roots-type supercharger engaged, it delivered an impressive 65 horsepower.
Mercedes 2-litre "Targa Florio"
1924
Purpose-built race car specifically designed to conquer the challenging Targa Florio. It featured a supercharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder producing 126 horsepower, and a lightweight, aerodynamic body. Driven by Christian Werner, it won the 1924 Targa Florio, marking the first time a non-Italian driver had won the event since 1920.
Mercedes 4.5-litre
1924
Initially designed with a supercharged 4.5-liter four-cylinder engine for Grand Prix racing in 1922, it underwent several transformations. In 1924, it was modified for the Targa Florio with a streamlined body and further engine enhancements, achieving respectable results. Later that year, it was fitted with a 4.5-liter engine.
Mercedes 2-litre 8-cylinder "Monza"
1924
A bold experiment featuring a revolutionary inline-8 engine designed by Ferdinand Porsche. This supercharged 2.0-liter engine was highly advanced, with four valves per cylinder and a unique design where the supercharger was positioned behind the engine. It proved to be unreliable and difficult to handle.
Mercedes 2-litre 8-cylinder hillclimb
1925
The Mercedes 2-litre 8-cylinder hillclimb car of 1925 was a specialized version of the innovative "Monza" Grand Prix car, adapted for the unique demands of hill climb racing. It retained the groundbreaking 2.0-liter supercharged inline-8 engine, but with modifications to improve its low-end torque and responsiveness.
Mercedes 2-litre 8-cylinder AVUS
1926
The 2-litre 8-cylinder AVUS of 1926 was a modified "Monza" Grand Prix car, specifically adapted for the high-speed AVUS racetrack in Berlin. To comply with regulations requiring four seats, the body was lengthened and two small seats were added behind the driver. Driven by Rudolf Caracciola, it secured a victory in the 1926 German Grand Prix.
Mercedes 15/70/100 hp
1924 - 1926
The Mercedes 15/70/100 hp, produced from 1924 to 1926, was a luxurious and powerful touring car that showcased Mercedes' innovative supercharger technology. Its 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine produced 70 horsepower without the supercharger engaged, but with it activated, the output jumped to an impressive 100 horsepower.
Mercedes 24/100/140 hp
1924 - 1926
Produced from 1924 to 1926, it was a powerful and luxurious GT car that exemplified Mercedes' commitment to high-performance engineering. Its massive 6.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, designed by Ferdinand Porsche, produced 100 hp without the supercharger engaged. With the "Kompressor" activated, the output soared to an impressive 140 hp.
Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix, Touring, Hillclimb & Record Cars (1926 - 1939)
The period between 1926 and 1939 marked a golden age for Mercedes-Benz in motorsports, with their racing cars achieving legendary status both on and off the track. Following the merger of Daimler and Benz in 1926, the newly formed Mercedes-Benz company dedicated itself to building some of the most advanced and powerful racing machines the world had ever seen.
In Grand Prix racing, Mercedes-Benz dominated the competition with a series of iconic "Silver Arrows." Cars like the supercharged Type S, SSK, and SSKL, driven by legendary racers like Rudolf Caracciola, achieved numerous victories in prestigious races like the German Grand Prix and the Mille Miglia. These cars showcased Mercedes-Benz's engineering prowess with their powerful engines, lightweight designs, and innovative technologies. The W25, introduced in 1934, marked the beginning of the Silver Arrows era, with its streamlined body and potent supercharged engine. The W125 of 1937 further cemented Mercedes-Benz's dominance, with its incredible speed and advanced engineering.
Beyond Grand Prix racing, Mercedes-Benz also excelled in hillclimbs, with cars based on their Grand Prix machines, like the W125 Hillclimb and W154 Hillclimb, which conquered the steep inclines and challenging corners of European hill climb courses. Mercedes-Benz also pursued absolute speed records with dedicated record cars. The W25 Record Car of 1936, with its streamlined body and powerful V12 engine, set a new world record speed on the Autobahn. The W125 Record Car of 1938 further pushed the boundaries of speed, achieving a record that would stand for decades.
Mercedes-Benz Model K (1926 – 1927)
Mercedes-Benz Type S (1927 – 1928)
Mercedes-Benz Type S Hillclimb (1927)
Mercedes-Benz SS (1928 – 1929)
Mercedes-Benz SSK (1928 – 1931)
Mercedes-Benz SSKL (1931)
Mercedes-Benz SSKL Streamliner (1932 – 1933)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix (W 25, 1934)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix (W 25, 1935)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W 25 SWB (1936)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W 125 (1937)
Mercedes-Benz W 25 SWB "AVUS" (1937)
Mercedes-Benz W 125 "AVUS" (1937)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W 154 (1938)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W 154 (1939)
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W 154 (1951)
Mercedes-Benz W 165 (1939)
Mercedes-Benz Hillclimb W 125 (1939)
Mercedes-Benz Hillclimb W 154 (1939)
Mercedes-Benz W 25 Record Car (1934)
Mercedes-Benz W 25 Record Car (1936)
Mercedes-Benz W 125 Record Car (1937)
Mercedes-Benz W 125 Record Car (1938)
Mercedes-Benz W 154 3L Record Car (1939)
Mercedes-Benz W 154 3L Streamlined (1939)
Mercedes-Benz T 80 Record car (1939)
Mercedes-Benz Model K
1926 - 1927
The K was designed for drivers who wanted a GT and to be able to compete in motor racing. For its first sporting appearance in the Spanish Grand Prix for Touring Cars, driver teams Otto Merz/Walter Gärtner, Rudolf Caracciola/Heinrich Kühnle and Christian Werner/Willy Walb shared the places on the podium. It was just the start.
Mercedes-Benz Type S
1927 - 1928
Introduced in 1927, this was a legendary supercharged sports car that dominated racing in its era. Its powerful 6.8-liter inline-six engine, equipped with a Roots-type supercharger, produced 180 horsepower, making it one of the fastest cars in the world. Driven by legendary racers like Rudolf Caracciola, it won a lot of prestigious races.
Mercedes-Benz Type S Hillclimb
1927
A specialized version of the legendary Type S sports car, specifically modified for the rigors of hill climb racing. It featured the same powerful 6.8-liter supercharged inline-six engine, but with a shorter wheelbase and modified suspension for improved agility on the steep and winding roads of hill climb courses. Driven by legendary racer Rudolf Caracciola.
Mercedes-Benz SS
1928 - 1929
The Super Sport was a high-performance evolution of the already potent Type S. Its 7.1-liter supercharged inline-six engine produced 225 horsepower. This grand tourer, with its luxurious appointments and thrilling performance, was favored by wealthy enthusiasts and celebrities. The SS excelled in endurance races and high-speed events.
Mercedes-Benz SSK
1928 - 1931
The Mercedes-Benz SSK was a legendary supercharged sports car that became an icon of its era. Its had a shortened wheelbase, which enhanced its agility and handling. Powered by a 7.1-liter inline-six engine with a supercharger and driven by racers like Rudolf Caracciola, the SSK achieved numerous victories in races.
Mercedes-Benz SSKL
1931
The Mercedes-Benz SSKL (Super Sport Kurz Leicht), which translates to "Super Sport Short Light," was a truly formidable racing machine built in 1931. It was an evolution of the already potent SSK, with a focus on weight reduction to maximize performance. It won the 1931 Mille Miglia in convincing fashion.
Mercedes-Benz SSKL Streamliner
1932 - 1933
The Streamliner was a radical racing car that pushed the boundaries of aero-design. Based on the SSKL, it featured a streamlined aluminum body that dramatically reduced drag. This car, driven by Manfred von Brauchitsch, achieved a historic victory at the 1932 AVUS race in Berlin, reaching a top speed of 235 km/h.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix
1934
The Mercedes-Benz W25, introduced in 1934, marked the beginning of the legendary "Silver Arrows" era in Grand Prix racing. Developed under the leadership of Hans Nibel, it was designed to meet the new 750 kg weight limit formula. Its powerful 3.4-liter supercharged inline-eight engine produced around 354 hp.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix
1935
Continued its dominance in the 1935 Grand Prix season with refinements and increased power. Its supercharged inline-eight engine was enlarged to nearly 4 liters, producing close to 400 hp. This allowed it to achieve even higher speeds and compete with the increasingly powerful Auto Union cars.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W25 SWB
1936
A modified version of the W25 Grand Prix car, designed to improve its handling and competitiveness. By shortening the wheelbase, Mercedes engineers aimed to create a more agile car that could better navigate the twists and turns of Grand Prix circuits. The car ultimately proved to be less successful than its predecessor.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W125
1937
A dominant force in Grand Prix racing, considered by many to be one of the greatest race cars ever built. Designed by Rudolf Uhlenhaut, it featured a powerful 5.6-liter supercharged inline-eight engine that produced over 600 horsepower. Driven by legendary racers like Rudolf Caracciola it achieved numerous victories and consistently set new speed records.
Mercedes-Benz W25 SWB "AVUS"
1937
The Mercedes-Benz W25 SWB "AVUS" of 1937 was a unique and experimental racing car built for the high-speed AVUS race in Berlin. Based on the W25 with a shortened wheelbase, it featured a radical streamlined body that fully enclosed the wheels, minimizing drag and maximizing top speed. Powered by an experimental 5.6-liter V12 with 736 hp.
Mercedes-Benz W125 "AVUS"
1937
The Mercedes-Benz W125 "AVUS" of 1937 was a specialized version of the dominant W125 Grand Prix car, specifically designed for the high-speed AVUS race in Berlin. Driven by Hermann Lang, the W125 "AVUS" reached an average speed of 261.7 km/h during the race, a record-breaking feat at the time.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W154
1938
The Mercedes-Benz W154 was a dominant force in Grand Prix racing during the 1938 season. Designed to comply with new regulations limiting engine displacement, it featured a supercharged 3.0-liter V12 engine that produced around 450 horsepower. It secured the European Championship title that year.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W154
1939
Continued to evolve for the 1939 Grand Prix season, featuring further refinements to maintain its competitiveness. The most significant change was the introduction of a two-stage supercharger for the 3.0-liter V12 engine, which boosted power output to around 480 horsepower. Allowed it to compete with the Auto Union cars.
Mercedes-Benz Grand-Prix W154
1951
The W 154 Silver Arrow, designed according to the 3-litre formula and raced with great success in 1938 and 1939, competed once more in two races in Argentina in February 1951, which were run according to the 3-litre formula still valid in America. These were the last racing appearances of the W 154.
Mercedes-Benz W165
1939
Designed and built in just eight months specifically for the 1939 Tripoli Grand Prix. This "voiturette" class race car featured a tiny but potent 1.5-liter supercharged V8 engine that produced an impressive 254 horsepower. The W165 was created in response to rule changes intended to curb the dominance of German manufacturers.
Mercedes-Benz Hillclimb W125
1939
The Mercedes-Benz W125 Hillclimb car of 1939 was a specialized version of the legendary W125 Grand Prix car, adapted for the unique challenges of hill climb racing. While it shared the same basic chassis and powerful 5.6-liter supercharged inline-eight engine, it featured several modifications.
Mercedes-Benz Hillclimb W154
1939
Driven by skilled hill climb specialists like Hans Stuck, the W154 Hillclimb car proved to be a formidable competitor, securing victories and setting records in various European hill climb events. This specialized machine showcased the versatility of the W154 platform and Mercedes-Benz's commitment to dominating all forms of motorsport.
Mercedes-Benz W25 Record Car
1934
A special version of the W25 Grand Prix car, specifically modified to chase world speed records. To achieve maximum velocity, it was fitted with a streamlined, enclosed cockpit and its supercharged 4.0-liter inline-eight engine was tuned to deliver over 430 horsepower. Driven by the fearless Rudolf Caracciola, this record car achieved incredible speeds.
Mercedes-Benz W25 Record Car
1936
Under the hood lurked a monstrous 5.6-liter V12 engine, a departure from the inline-eight of the standard W25, producing a staggering 616 horsepower. It achieved a new world record speed of 372.1 km/h (231.2 mph) over a flying kilometer on the Autobahn between Frankfurt and Darmstadt.
Mercedes-Benz W125 Record Car
1937
Based on the dominant W125 Grand Prix car it had a massive 5.6-liter V12 engine, equipped with two superchargers, that produced an astonishing 736 horsepower. The powerful V12 engine was not to become the limiting factor during the record week in 1937 - rather, the body lacked aerodynamic efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz W125 Record Car (1938)
1938
In 1938 Mercedes competed with a new, heavily revised version of the W 125 record-breaking car. Most changes were aimed at aero-efficiency. Caracciola achieved a sensational 432.692 km/h over the kilometre and 432.361 km/h over the mile, both with a flying start. The absolute top speed was 437 km/h.
Mercedes-Benz W154 3L Record Car (1939)
1939
A fascinating attempt to push the boundaries of speed with a modified Grand Prix car. Essentially a W154 Grand Prix car with streamlined wheel covers and a modified engine, it was designed to compete in Class D (3-liter) record attempts. It didn't break any absolute speed records.
Mercedes-Benz W154 3L Streamlined
1939
Based on the successful W154 Grand Prix car, it featured a dramatically streamlined, aerodynamic body with enclosed wheels and a long, tapering tail, minimizing drag to an extreme degree. Powered by a modified version of the W154's supercharged 3.0-liter V12 engine, producing around 465 horsepower, this car reached a top speed over 400 km/h (248.5 mph).
Mercedes-Benz T 80 Record
1939
A colossal six-wheeled machine designed with one purpose: to shatter the world land speed record. Conceived by racing driver Hans Stuck and engineered by Ferdinand Porsche, it featured a massive 44.5-liter Daimler-Benz DB 603 aircraft engine and had 3,500 horsepower. The record attempt was thwarted by the outbreak of World War II.
Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix, Touring, Sports & Rally Cars (1952 - 1971)
The post-WWII era witnessed a resurgence of Mercedes-Benz in motorsports, though it took a different form compared to their pre-war dominance. While the immediate post-war years were dedicated to rebuilding, Mercedes-Benz gradually returned to racing, showcasing their engineering prowess and adaptability in a changing motorsport landscape. Mercedes-Benz marked their return to international racing with the stunning 300 SL "Gullwing" sports car. This iconic machine, with its innovative gullwing doors and powerful inline-six engine, achieved remarkable success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1952, securing a 1-2 finish. They also entered Formula One in 1954 with the advanced W196, a streamlined car with a revolutionary desmodromic valve system. Driven by the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio, the W196 dominated the 1954 and 1955 seasons, securing two consecutive World Championship titles for Fangio.
After the tragic Le Mans disaster of 1955, Mercedes-Benz withdrew from Formula One and factory-backed sports car racing. However, they remained active in other forms of motorsport. They continued to develop powerful and luxurious road cars that often found success in touring car racing and rallying. The "Fintail" models of the late 1950s and the iconic 300 SE of the 1960s achieved notable victories in events like the Spa 24 Hours and the Argentine Touring Car Championship. Mercedes-Benz also made a significant impact in rallying during this period. The rugged and reliable 220 SE and later the 280 SL "Pagoda" proved to be competitive rally cars, with notable successes in events like the Rallye Monte Carlo and the East African Safari Rally. These victories demonstrated the versatility and durability of Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (1952)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (1953)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (1955)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR "Uhlenhaut" (1955)
Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamlined (1954)
Mercedes-Benz W 196 R (1954)
Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Streamlined (1955)
Mercedes-Benz W 196 R (1956)
Mercedes-Benz W 196 R (3-litre) (1955)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (1955 – 1956)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SLS (1957)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (1957 – 1962)
Mercedes-Benz 220 (1952)
Mercedes-Benz 190 SL (1955)
Mercedes-Benz 220 (1954 – 1956)
Mercedes-Benz 219 (1956 – 1959)
Mercedes-Benz 220 S (1956 – 1959)
Mercedes-Benz 220 SE (1959)
Mercedes-Benz 190 D (1959)
Mercedes-Benz 190 ( 1960)
Mercedes-Benz 220 SE (1960 – 1964)
Mercedes-Benz 230 SL (1963)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SE (1963 – 1965)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 (1969 – 1972)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG (1971)
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W194)
1952
Marked the company's triumphant return to motorsports after World War II. It featured a lightweight tubular spaceframe chassis and a powerful 3.0-liter inline-six engine derived from the luxurious 300 Adenauer saloon. The 300 SL achieved remarkable success in its debut season, securing a 1-2 finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W194 011)
1953
A unique evolution of the 300 SL Gullwing race car. It featured several advancements aimed at improving performance and handling. It boasted a more aerodynamic body, a shorter wheelbase, and a revised suspension system. The W 194 011 also featured a direct-injection engine, a first for a Mercedes-Benz , producing 215hp.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR (W196 S)
1955
Dominated the World Sportscar Championship. Based on the successful W196 Formula One car, it featured a powerful 3.0-liter straight-eight engine and a lightweight, aerodynamic body. Driven by Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio, it achieved iconic victories at the Mille Miglia, the Tourist Trophy, and the Targa Florio.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR "Uhlenhaut"
1955
A road-going version of the dominant 300 SLR race car, it was named after its creator, chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Only two were ever built, and they were never officially sold to the public. Featuring a sleek, closed-roof design and the same powerful 3.0-liter straight-eight engine as the race car it was capable of astonishing speeds.
Mercedes-Benz W196 R Streamlined
1954
The Mercedes-Benz W 196 R streamlined racing car, introduced at the 1954 French Grand Prix, was a marvel of aerodynamic design. This unique version of the W196 featured a fully enclosed, streamlined body crafted from lightweight aluminum, minimizing drag. Its appearance earned it the nickname "Monza" after it was used at Italian GP.
Mercedes-Benz W196 R
1954
Marked the triumphant return of Mercedes-Benz to Formula One racing after a long absence. It featured a lightweight spaceframe chassis and a powerful 2.5-liter straight-eight engine. The W 196 R achieved immediate success, winning 9 out of 12 races and securing F1 World Championship titles in 1954 and 1955.
Mercedes-Benz W196 R Streamlined
1955
Made a brief but impactful return in the 1955 F1 season. This aerodynamically advanced version of the W196, with its fully enclosed wheels and sleek bodywork, was designed for high-speed circuits. Although it had proven successful in 1954 at Reims and Monza, the streamlined W196 R was only used once in the 1955 season, at the Italian Grand Prix.
Mercedes-Benz W196 R
1956
While the streamlined version was used sparingly, the open-wheeled W 196 R proved to be a formidable force. It secured six victories in the 1955 season, including a memorable 1-2 finish at the British Grand Prix. This success ultimately led to Fangio clinching his second consecutive World Championship title with Mercedes-Benz.
Mercedes-Benz W196 R (3-litre)
1955
The Mercedes-Benz W 196 R with a 3-litre engine was a special variant created for the 1955 Argentine Grand Prix, a non-championship Formula One race. Since this race didn't adhere to the 2.5-liter engine limit of the World Championship, Mercedes-Benz took the opportunity to utilize the powerful 3.0-liter straight-eight engine from their 300 SLR sports car.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W198)
1955 - 1956
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 198), produced from 1955 to 1956, was the iconic "Gullwing" coupe that brought racing technology to the road. Born from the success of the W 194 race car, it retained the distinctive upward-opening doors, necessitated by the high sills of its tubular spaceframe chassis. Powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SLS (W198)
1957
A special lightweight version of the 300 SL Roadster, created for racing in the American Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) events. To compete in the D-Modified class, Mercedes-Benz modified two roadsters, stripping them down and enhancing performance. Mods included aluminum body panels, tuned engine with higher compression, and revised suspension.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198)
1957 - 1962
After the prestigious outing of the SLS in the American Sports Car Championship, the 300 SL Roadster was also used in near-series spec in motorsport. In the Macau Grand Prix in November 1957, Arthur Pateman achieved overall victory and set a new lap record. After the previous year's victory by Doug Steane in a 190 SL, this was the last success for Mercedes-Benz in this event.
Mercedes-Benz 220 (W187)
1952
The Mercedes-Benz 220 (W 187) was the first post-war Mercedes-Benz to feature a six-cylinder engine, a 2.2-liter unit producing 80 horsepower. While not a dedicated sports car, its powerful engine and refined handling made it a popular choice for those seeking both comfort and performance.
Mercedes-Benz 190 SL (W121)
1955
While the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was primarily marketed as a stylish grand tourer, it did see some action in motorsport. The 190 SL proved to be a reliable and competitive rally car in various events, particularly in the late 1950s and early 1960s. It also participated in some sports car races.
Mercedes-Benz 220 (W180)
1954 - 1956
In the 1956 Mille Miglia, several modified 220s competed in the class for standard-production touring cars. These cars were equipped with the twin-carburetor engine from the upcoming 220 S model, boosting power to 115 hp, and featured a floor-mounted gear shifter for quicker shifts.
Mercedes-Benz 219 (W105)
1956 - 1959
In the late 1950s, engineers recognized the 219's potential for long-distance endurance rallies. They prepared several modified 219s for events like the East African Safari Rally. They featured reinforced chassis, upgraded suspension, and increased ground clearance to tackle the rough African roads.
Mercedes-Benz 220 S (W180)
1956 - 1959
The Mercedes-Benz 220 S (W 180) participated in the grueling Mille Miglia road race in 1956. Mercedes-Benz entered several modified 220 S sedans in the touring car class. These cars featured a more powerful engine with twin carburetors, producing 115 horsepower, and a floor-mounted gear shifter for quicker gear changes.
Mercedes-Benz 220 SE (W128)
1959
Introduced in 1958, this was a luxurious sedan that also demonstrated its sporting prowess through various motorsport endeavors. One of its most notable achievements was its participation in the grueling Liège-Rome-Liège rally in 1959. A privately entered 220 SE, driven by a team of Belgian drivers, managed to secure an impressive class victory.
Mercedes-Benz 190 D (W121)
1959
While the Mercedes-Benz 190 D (W 121) of 1959 was primarily known for its fuel efficiency and practicality as a diesel-powered sedan, it also had a surprising presence in motorsport, particularly in endurance rallies. The diesel engine offered excellent fuel economy and torque, which proved advantageous in long-distance rallies.
Mercedes-Benz 190 (W121)
1960
Participated in the demanding Acropolis Rally in Greece in 1960 via a privately entered 190. Driven by Walter Schock and Rolf Moll, achieved a remarkable class victory. This success demonstrated the 190's durability, agility, and performance potential in challenging conditions. Showcased the versatility of the W 121 platform.
Mercedes-Benz 220 SE (W111)
1960 - 1964
Luxurious sedan produced from 1960 to 1965, boasted a robust 2.2-liter inline-six engine with fuel injection, making it surprisingly potent for its time. This performance potential, combined with its sturdy construction, made it a suitable candidate for motorsport, particularly in the realm of rallying. Mercedes-Benz recognized this and actively supported privateer teams.
Mercedes-Benz 230 SL (W113)
1963
In the early 1960s, Mercedes-Benz actively supported privateer teams who campaigned the 230 SL in various European rallies. These rally-prepared 230 SLs were often modified with upgraded suspension, reinforced chassis, and additional lighting for night stages. They proved to be competitive in their class, demonstrating impressive durability and handling on gravel roads.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SE (W112)
1963 - 1965
The 300 SE achieved remarkable success in the grueling Argentine Touring Car Grand Prix. In 1963 and 1964, Mercedes-Benz dominated the event with the 300 SE, securing consecutive victories and showcasing the car's exceptional durability and performance. These racing 300 SEs were specially prepared with modified engines, upgraded suspensions, and reinforced chassis.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 (W109)
1969 - 1972
Got its powerful 6.3-liter V8 engine borrowed from the prestigious 600 limousine. While not a dedicated race car, the 300 SEL 6.3 did see some competitive action, most notably in the hands of Erich Waxenberger, a Mercedes-Benz engineer. Despite facing stiff competition from purpose-built touring cars, the "Red Pig" as it was nicknamed, surprised everyone with its performance.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG (W109)
1971
Legendary racing car that defied expectations and shocked the motorsport world. Based on the already potent 300 SEL 6.3 luxury sedan, AMG, then a fledgling tuning company, transformed it into a fire-breathing racing machine. They bored out the 6.3-liter V8 engine to 6.8 liters, increasing its output to a monstrous 428 horsepower. Entered in the 1971 Spa 24 Hours endurance race it led the race for a considerable time and ultimately secured a remarkable second-place.
Mercedes-Benz & Mercedes-AMG Formula One Race Cars
Mercedes-Benz's Formula One journey can be divided into two distinct eras of dominance, separated by decades of absence and a renewed focus on different forms of motorsport. Both eras, however, showcase the company's relentless pursuit of innovation and engineering excellence. After a long hiatus from Grand Prix racing, Mercedes-Benz stormed back into Formula One in 1954 with the revolutionary W196. This technologically advanced car, with its lightweight spaceframe chassis and powerful straight-eight engine featuring desmodromic valves, set a new standard in the sport. Driven by legends like Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, the W196 dominated the 1954 and 1955 seasons, securing consecutive World Championship titles for Fangio. Tragedy struck at Le Mans in 1955, leading to the company's withdrawal from Formula One and a shift in focus towards other racing endeavors.
After decades away from Formula One, Mercedes-Benz returned to the sport in 2010, acquiring the Brawn GP team that had just won the championship. This marked the beginning of a new era of dominance for the Silver Arrows. With a combination of exceptional engineering, strategic brilliance, and talented drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, Mercedes-Benz embarked on an unprecedented run of success. From 2014 to 2021, they secured an incredible eight consecutive Constructors' Championships, with Lewis Hamilton claiming seven Drivers' titles during that period. Cars like the W05 Hybrid, W06 Hybrid, and W11 EQ Performance, with their innovative hybrid power units and aerodynamic designs, redefined the pinnacle of Formula One technology. While the 2022 and 2023 seasons saw Mercedes-Benz face stiffer competition and a temporary setback in their dominance, their commitment to innovation and their relentless pursuit of victory remain unwavering.
Mercedes-Benz W196 (1954–1955)
Mercedes MGP W01 (2010)
Mercedes MGP W02 (2011)
Mercedes F1 W03 (2012)
Mercedes F1 W04 (2013)
Mercedes F1 W05 Hybrid (2014)
Mercedes F1 W06 Hybrid (2015)
Mercedes F1 W07 Hybrid (2016)
Mercedes AMG F1 W08 EQ Power+ (2017)
Mercedes AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+ (2018)
Mercedes AMG F1 W10 EQ Power+ (2019)
Mercedes-AMG F1 W11 EQ Performance (2020)
Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance (2021)
Mercedes-AMG F1 W13 E Performance (2022)
Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance (2023)
Mercedes-AMG F1 W15 E Performance (2024)
Mercedes-Benz W196
1954 - 1955
The Mercedes-Benz W196 R, introduced in 1954, was a revolutionary Formula One car that marked the triumphant return of Mercedes-Benz to Grand Prix racing. Driven by legends like Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, it won 9 of the 12 races it entered and secured the F1 World Championship in 1954 and 1955.
Mercedes MGP W01
2010
The Mercedes MGP W01, introduced in 2010, marked the return of Mercedes-Benz as a full-fledged constructor to Formula One after a 55-year absence. While it was initially designed as the Brawn BGP 002, the car was rebranded and further developed by Mercedes GP Petronas for the 2010 season. Didn't achieve any race wins.
Mercedes MGP W02
2011
A significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz in their quest to regain Formula One dominance. This car featured a number of aerodynamic improvements and innovations, including a distinctive "bladed" roll hoop and a more tightly packaged rear end. The car achieved consistent points finishes and even challenged for podiums on several occasions.
Mercedes F1 W03
2012
Marked a turning point for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team. It was the first car designed under the leadership of Ross Brawn and boasted innovative features like the "Double DRS" system, which stalled the rear wing to reduce drag on straights. Secured Mercedes' first win since their return, with Rosberg taking the win at the Chinese Grand Prix.
Mercedes F1 W04
2013
The W04 featured further aerodynamic refinements and improvements to its suspension and chassis. Driven by Lewis Hamilton, in his first year with the team, and Nico Rosberg, the W04 showed strong pace throughout the season. Hamilton secured the car's only victory that year at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with several other podium finishes for both drivers.
Mercedes F1 W05 Hybrid
2014
Beginning of an era of dominance for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. This car was designed to take full advantage of the new hybrid power unit regulations. Driven by Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, the W05 Hybrid proved to be exceptionally fast and reliable, winning 16 out of 19 races and securing both the Drivers' (for Hamilton) and Constructors' Championships.
Mercedes F1 W06 Hybrid
2015
Continued the team's utter domination of the Formula One grid. The W06 Hybrid featured further refinements to its hybrid power unit and aerodynamic design. Driven by Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, the car achieved an even more impressive win rate than the W05, securing 16 victories out of 19 races and claiming both the Drivers' (for Hamilton) and Constructors' Championships once again.
Mercedes F1 W07 Hybrid
2016
Continued the team's reign in Formula One, though this season brought a fierce rivalry between teammates Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. The car itself was an evolution of the dominant W06, featuring refinements to its hybrid power unit and aerodynamics. It proved to be incredibly fast and reliable, securing 19 wins out of 21 races and another Constructors' Championship for Mercedes.
Mercedes AMG F1 W08 EQ Power+
2017
New era for the team, as they adapted to revised aerodynamic regulations. With Lewis Hamilton leading the charge alongside new teammate Valtteri Bottas, the W08 EQ Power+ continued Mercedes' dominance, though not without challenges. The car featured a longer wheelbase and innovative aero solutions to generate downforce. Hamilton secured his fourth World Championship title.
Mercedes AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+
2018
Driven by Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas, it showcased further refinements to its hybrid power unit and aero. Hamilton secured his fifth World Championship title with the car, winning 11 races and engaging in a close battle with Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel. The W09 EQ Power+ also marked a significant milestone as they passed Ferrari's record for the most consecutive Constructors' Championships.
Mercedes AMG F1 W10 EQ Power+
2019
The W10 EQ Power+ of 2019 continued the team's reign of dominance, securing their sixth consecutive Formula One World Championship double. Hamilton secured his sixth Drivers' Championship title with the car, winning 11 races and surpassing Juan Manuel Fangio's record of five titles. The W10 EQ Power+ also achieved a record-breaking 9 consecutive 1-2 finishes.
Mercedes-AMG F1 W11 EQ Performance
2020
Considered one of the most dominant and technologically advanced racing cars in the sport's history. Its Dual-Axis Steering allowed drivers to adjust the toe angle of the front wheels. Achieved remarkable success, winning 13 races and securing a record seventh consecutive Constructors' Championship for Mercedes. Hamilton claimed his 7th Drivers' Championship.
Mercedes-AMG F1 W12 E Performance
2021
The last car to win a Constructors' Championship (their eighth consecutive title). It was an evolution of its dominant predecessors. It faced a strong challenge from Red Bull Racing throughout the season. Hamilton secured 8 race wins, a controversial final race saw Verstappen clinch the Drivers' Championship.
Mercedes-AMG F1 W13 E Performance
2022
A significant setback for the team, ending their streak of eight consecutive Constructors' Championships. The W13 struggled with "porpoising" which hampered its performance throughout the season. Despite significant development efforts, the car only managed one victory, with Russell winning the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance
2023
Significant departure from its predecessor's design philosophy, abandoning the "zero sidepod" concept in favor of a conventional approach. Showed improved performance compared to the W13, with consistent podium finishes but the W14 ultimately fell short of challenging for the championship. Mercedes' first winless season since 2011.
Mercedes-AMG F1 W15 E Performance
2024
As rivals McLaren and Ferrari surged ahead, Mercedes struggled to match their pace. Podiums were elusive in the first part of the season, and it wasn't until Montreal – where Mercedes introduced a new front wing - that the team returned to the podium, with third place. It was a seasons of ups and downs and 4 wins couldn't mask gaps against top teams.
Mercedes-Benz Group C, GT1, DTM & Customer Race Cars
Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history in sports car and touring car racing, achieving remarkable success across various categories and eras. Mercedes-Benz's partnership with Sauber in the late 1980s and early 1990s produced some of the most iconic and successful Group C prototype race cars. The Sauber C9, with its powerful Mercedes-Benz V8 engine and distinctive silver livery, dominated the 1989 World Sportscar Championship, culminating in a 1-2 finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The C11 continued this success in 1990, securing both the Drivers' and Constructors' titles. These cars showcased Mercedes-Benz's engineering prowess and marked a resurgence for the brand in top-tier sports car racing. In the late 1990s, Mercedes-Benz turned their attention to the FIA GT Championship with the CLK GTR. This homologation special, a road-going supercar adapted for racing, dominated the series in 1997 and 1998 with its powerful V12 engine and advanced aerodynamics. The CLK LM, a purpose-built evolution with a V8 engine, continued this success in 1998, winning every race it entered. These cars solidified Mercedes-Benz's position as a force to be reckoned with in GT racing.
Mercedes-Benz has been a dominant force in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) since the 1980s, consistently fielding competitive cars and achieving numerous championships. From the iconic 190E Evo II to the various iterations of the C-Class and CLK DTM cars, Mercedes-Benz has showcased their expertise in touring car racing. Their commitment to innovation and performance is evident in the success of these cars, driven by legendary drivers like Klaus Ludwig, Bernd Schneider, and Gary Paffett. Beyond their factory-backed efforts, Mercedes-Benz has a strong tradition of supporting customer racing programs. They provide high-performance race cars and technical support to private teams and drivers, allowing them to compete in various championships around the world. This commitment to customer racing has fostered a thriving motorsport community and further cemented Mercedes-Benz's reputation as a leader in performance and technology.
Mercedes Group C Racecars
Sauber C8 (1985 - 1988)
Sauber-Mercedes C9 (1987 - 1989)
Sauber-Mercedes C11 (1990 - 1991)
Sauber-Mercedes C291 (1991)
Sauber-Mercedes C292 (1992)
Mercedes GT1 Racecars
Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (1997-1998)
Mercedes-Benz CLK LM (1998)
Mercedes-Benz CLR (1999)
Mercedes DTM Racecars
Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo DTM (1988 - 1990)
Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo II DTM (1990 - 1994)
Mercedes 190 E-Class 1 (1993 - 1994)
Mercedes C-Class V6 (1994 - 1995)
Mercedes AMG CLK DTM (2002 - 2003)
Mercedesz AMG C-Class DTM (W203) (2004 - 2007)
Mercedes-AMG C-Class DTM (W204) (2007 - 2011)
Mercedes-AMG C63 Class Coupé DTM (2012 - 2018)
Formula E
Mercedes EQ Silver Arrow 01 (2019-2020)
Mercedes-EQ Silver Arrow 02 (2020-2022)
Customer Racing
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 (2011 - 2014)
Mercedes-AMG GT3 (2015–2019)
Mercedes-AMG GT4 (2017 - Present)
Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo (2020–Present)
Mercedes-AMG GT2 (2023 - Present)
Mercedes-AMG GT Track Series (2023 - Present)
Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y (2024)
Sauber C8
1985 - 1988 / Group C
Marked the beginning of a successful partnership between Sauber and Mercedes-Benz in endurance racing. Powered by a 5.0-liter twin-turbocharged Mercedes-Benz V8 engine, the C8 showed promise but suffered from reliability issues in its early years. Despite this, it achieved a memorable victory at the 1986 1000km of Nürburgring with drivers Henri Pescarolo and Mike Thackwell.
Sauber-Mercedes C9
1987 - 1990 / Group C
Featured a powerful 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produced close to 720 horsepower. With its distinctive silver livery and speed, the C9 dominated the 1989 World Sportscar Championship, securing victories in all but one race. This culminated in a triumphant 1-2 finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with Jochen Mass, Manuel Reuter, and Stanley Dickens taking the overall win.
Sauber-Mercedes C11
1990 - 1991 / Group C
Continued the successful Sauber and Mercedes-Benz partnership. Building on the foundation of the Sauber C9, the C11 featured refined aero and the same powerful 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing around 730 horsepower. Dominated 1990 World Sportscar Championship, winning seven out of nine races and securing both the Drivers' and Constructors' titles.
Sauber-Mercedes C291
1991 / Group C
A bold step forward for the Sauber-Mercedes partnership. It was the first sportscar to be fully branded as a Mercedes-Benz, and it featured a brand-new 3.5-liter flat-12 engine designed specifically for the new regulations. Unfortunately, the C291 was plagued with reliability issues, struggling to finish races and achieve its full potential. Sole victory was at the final race in Autopolis.
Sauber-Mercedes C292 (1992)
1992 / Group C
The Mercedes-Benz C292 was a stillborn Group C prototype race car intended for the 1992 World Sportscar Championship season as an evolution of the Mercedes-Benz C291, but never raced due to Mercedes-Benz withdrawing from sportscar racing after a dismal 1991 season. The decision was made to cancel the project after only a few C292s had been produced by Sauber.
Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
1997 - 1998 / GT1
Built to dominate the FIA GT Championship in the late 1990s. It had a mid-mounted 6.0-liter V12 engine. Its lightweight carbon fiber construction and aggressive aerodynamics contributed to its incredible performance. Driven by racing legends like Bernd Schneider and Klaus Ludwig, the CLK GTR achieved remarkable success, winning the FIA GT Championship in both 1997 and 1998.
Mercedes-Benz CLK LM
1998 / GT1
Designed to compete in the 1998 FIA GT Championship. Successor to the CLK GTR, it featured a more aero-efficient design and a lighter, more powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. This change was made for improved reliability and performance at the demanding 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite retiring from Le Mans, the CLK LM went on to dominate the rest of the FIA GT Championship season.
Mercedes-Benz CLR
1999 / GT1
The Mercedes-Benz CLR is remembered more for a series of dramatic crashes. The CLR suffered from a critical aero-flaw that caused it to become unstable and take flight. Mark Webber crashed twice during practice and qualifying, and Peter Dumbreck flipped. Mercedes-Benz withdrew from the race and this incident ultimately cancelled the entire CLR racing program.
Mercedes 190E 2.5-16 Evo DTM
1988 - 1990 / DTM
It was not until 1988 that the Three-Pointed Star made its factory debut in the competition. The German manufacturer had designs to conquer the field alongside its long-time technical partner, AMG. Incumbent champion, Klaus Ludwig, was poached from arch-rivals, Ford, to spearhead Mercedes-Benz’s 1989 campaign, yet the next three seasons were characterised by relative underachievement.
Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evo II DTM
1990 - 1994 / DTM
Having arrived mid-way through the 1990 season, the Evo 2 secured the Manufacturers’ championship for Mercedes in 1991 as AMG claimed that year’s Teams’ title. For 1992, Mercedes-Benz recruited future DTM legend Bernd Schneider to join Ludwig, Keke Rosberg and Ellen Lohr at AMG’s four-car “super team”. The 190 E had by now transformed into spectacular Evolution II form. Mercedes won both the Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ titles.
Mercedes-Benz 190 E-Class 1
1993 - 1994 / DTM
With Audi and BMW withdrawing from the series, Mercedes-Benz needed a stopgap to keep the championship alive. They chose to modify the aging 190 E Evo II to meet the new Class 1 regulations. It retained its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with significant aero enhancements and active suspension. Though outgunned by the more powerful V6-equipped Alfa Romeo 155, the 190 E Class 1 managed to secure a victory.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class V6
1994 - 1995 / DTM
Developed for the new Class 1 touring car regulations, it replaced the iconic 190E Evo II with a more modern platform based on the W202 C-Class. Under the hood was a potent 2.5-liter V6 producing around 400 hp. This car, driven by Klaus Ludwig and Bernd Schneider, brought immediate success, with Ludwig winning the 1994 championship and Schneider taking the title in 1995. Mercedes was back to its winning ways.
Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK DTM
2002 - 2003 / DTM
Built for the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) series in the early 2000s. Based on the CLK road car, it was a thoroughbred racing machine with a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 engine producing around 470 horsepower. Incredibly successful in the hands of drivers like Bernd Schneider, who won the DTM championship in 2000, 2001, and 2003 with the CLK DTM.
Mercedes-Benz AMG C-Class DTM (W203)
2004 - 2007 / DTM
Raced from 2004 to 2007, continued Mercedes-Benz's dominance in DTM. Driven by talented drivers like Gary Paffett, who won the championship in 2005, and Bernd Schneider, who secured his fifth DTM title in 2006, the W203 achieved numerous victories and podium finishes. Solidified Mercedes-Benz's reputation as a leading force in touring car racing.
Mercedes-Benz AMG C-Class DTM (W204)
2007 - 2011 / DTM
Based on the W204 gen C-Class, it featured a 4.0-liter V8 engine producing ~ 470 horsepower. The W204 C-Class DTM continued Mercedes-Benz's winning ways in the series, with drivers like Paul di Resta, Gary Paffett, and Bruno Spengler achieving numerous victories and podium finishes. Di Resta won the 2010 DTM Championship title with the car.
Mercedes-AMG C63 Class Coupé DTM
2012 - 2018 / DTM
Competed in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) series from 2012 to 2018. Initially based on the C204 C-Class Coupé, it was updated in 2016 to reflect the new C205 generation. Drivers like Pascal Wehrlein and Gary Paffett secured championship titles with the car in 2015 and 2018 respectively. The C63 DTM further cemented Mercedes-AMG's dominance in touring car racing.
Mercedes EQ Silver Arrow 01 (2019-2020)
2019 - 2020 / Formula E
The Mercedes-Benz EQ Silver Arrow 01, introduced for the 2019-2020 Formula E season, marked the company's entry into the world of electric motorsport. Driven by Stoffel Vandoorne and Nyck de Vries, the car achieved respectable results in its debut season, including a podium finish for Vandoorne in the first race.
Mercedes-EQ Silver Arrow 02 (2020-2022)
2020 - 2022 / Formula E
Competing in the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 Formula E seasons, this proved to be a championship-winning machine. It achieved multiple victories and consistent podium finishes. In the 2020-2021 season, de Vries secured the Drivers' World Championship title, while the team clinched the Constructors' Championship in both seasons.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3
2011 - 2014
Customer racing car built for the FIA GT3 category. It's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine, aggressive aerodynamics, and a lightweight construction. The SLS AMG GT3 quickly became a popular choice for privateer teams and drivers, achieving success in championships around the world. Its impressive performance made it a fan favorite.
Mercedes-AMG GT3
2015 - 2019
As the successor to the SLS AMG GT3, it was based on the Mercedes-AMG GT road car and featured a naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V8 engine, producing around 550 horsepower. The AMG GT3 quickly became a popular choice among privateer teams and drivers, achieving success in prestigious races like the 24 Hours of Spa and the Bathurst 12 Hour.
Mercedes-AMG GT4
2017 - Present
Customer racing car designed for the highly competitive GT4 category. Based on the Mercedes-AMG GT road car, it features a potent 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, adjustable to deliver up to 510 horsepower depending on Balance of Performance regulations. The GT4 boasts a lightweight construction, sophisticated aerodynamics, and advanced motorsport technology.
Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo
2020 - Present
An evolution of the highly successful Mercedes-AMG GT3 customer racing car. Key updates include revised aerodynamics with a new front splitter and rear wing, optimized suspension geometry, and improved brake cooling. The Evo also boasts enhanced electronics and driver aids for increased safety and control. Retains the naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V8 engine.
Mercedes-AMG GT2
2023 - Present
The most powerful customer race car ever offered by Mercedes-AMG. Designed to bridge the gap between the GT3 and GT4 categories, it caters to "gentleman drivers" competing in the SRO GT2 class. Has a ferocious 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering a staggering 707 horsepower. Thrilling option for customer racers seeking a competitive edge in GT2.
Mercedes-AMG GT Track Series
2023 - Present
A limited-edition, track-only monster designed to deliver uncompromising performance. Limited to just 55 units, it's based on the AMG GT Black Series and features a heavily modified 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 734 hp. With its aggressive aerodynamics, stripped-down interior, and advanced motorsport technology derived from the GT3 and GT4 racing programs.
Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y
2024
A very special, limited-edition customer race car that celebrates 130 years of Mercedes motorsport heritage. Limited to just 13 units, it's a non-homologated track weapon boasting a 6.3-liter V8 engine without an air restrictor, pushing 671 horsepower. Designed for maximum performance, it features aggressive aero with increased downforce, a Formula 1-inspired Drag Reduction System (DRS), and carbon brakes.