The History of Mercedes-Benz in Less Than Two Minutes
Mercedes has seen many highs and lows in their long and storied history.
With over 130 years of car building experience under their belt, you could say the team at Mercedes-Benz has seen it all — and you’d be right. There’s not another automaker on the planet that dates back further than 1883, the year Karl Benz founded the storied brand. And somehow it’s all on display in the short video above.
Early years
MB built the first gasoline-powered car ever, back in 1886. And they rubbed shoulders with Dr. Ferdinand Porsche himself, who helped design the legendary SSK. Years later, they brought the first diesel-powered passenger car to market in 1936.
The golden age
In the mid-1950s, Mercedes released the legendary 300SL gullwing. It featured timeless styling that’s still revered today, and engineering decades ahead of its time.
However, a dark spot on MB’ history shouldn’t be forgotten: the 1955 Le Mans massacre. With 83 lives lost, the terrible crash still reminds us how far safety in motor racing has come.
The video quickly moves onto more lively moments, though. While less well-known than the 300SL, the Mercedes 600 Pullman, first offered in the early ‘60s, has become the gold standard in collector limousines.
Swift and safe
Furthermore, Mercedes has been the in-car safety leader over the last 50 years. They were the first to bring to market anti-lock brakes, now a staple of nearly all passenger cars. They were also the first to introduce an electronic stability control system.
The idea of testing cars to collide with elk might sound novel, but was in use by the Swedish government long before Mercedes discovered that their 1997 A-Class didn’t stand up to an impact from the hefty beasts. The automotive media had a field day.
Motor racing has been a part of Mercedes’ heritage since the early days. Now in the new era, the brand has enjoyed a successful return to Formula One, thanks to top drivers Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton.
It’s been quite a ride, and Mercedes shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Check out the video, then let us know what you find most interesting about MB’s long and storied history.
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