Iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Returns to the US
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is featuring a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR at The Portland Art Museum’s upcoming showcase “The Allure of the Automobile.” The showcase, which runs from June 11 through September 11 of 2011, contains 16 of the world’s most luxurious, rare and innovative vehicles between 1930 and the mid 1960s.
The Portland Art Museum exhibit is presenting one of the three 300 SLR
sports-racing cars ever built. Chosen to represent and examine the
golden age of automotive design and the world’s finest cars, the 300 SLR
is one of 15 other significantly recognized automobiles including a
1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster.
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR
is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful and well-known sports
racing cars. Stirling Moss demonstrated the astonishing abilities of the
300 SLR, after winning the 1955 Mille Miglia in Italy. The
eight-cylinder Grand Prix engine, combined with a body construction of
sheet magnesium, formed the lightweight, high-speed racecar.
The arrival of the 300 SLR is courtesy of the Mercedes-Benz Classic
Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. The classic car collection consists of
around 856 vehicles and archived material that collectively preserve 125
years of Mercedes-Benz history and automotive design. The Mercedes-Benz
Classic Museum displays 160 of the vehicles in the collection, storing
the remaining vehicles in various buildings across Stuttgart. Since
2006, the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine, California closely
partners with Germany’s Classic Center and Museum to provide US owners,
enthusiasts, and collectors access to retail sales, restoration,
appraisal and vehicle-search assistance on models at least twenty years
old.
In addition to The Allure of the Automobile, local Mercedes-Benz car
clubs and enthusiasts will show off their own vehicles on Park Avenue
for a free display Saturday, July 23, 2011 from 10:00 A.M. until 5:00
P.M.
While being responsible for the production of historical vehicles like
the 300 SLR, Mercedes-Benz continues its legacy for over a century. This
year marks the brand’s 125 year anniversary for its 1886 patent of the
three-wheel, Benz Patent-Motorwagen and Mercedes-Benz ongoing commitment
to future innovation and fascinating design. For more information on
MBUSA, please visit www.mbusa.com.