Projects A new SL. Curious about your opinion.

Dear HAMBers,
don't get me wrong, this is not a misuse of this forum.
Not a poll or marketing research - just some personal inspiration and international understanding is asked here.
I am German, a hot rodder in my private life and lucky to serve
the brand of Mercedes-Benz with my ideas and concepts for a living.
They pay me for being a "car guy" and I am trying to soup up their contemporary brand communication with my vintage influences and spirit.

So, I'd be curious to hear opinions about the Mercedes-Benz sports car perception in America from those people I assume to understand best - you.

How do you guys see the gullwing? And what kind of people drive early and late SL models in the States?

Would you say that the constructive achievements (lightweight et cetera) and some of the SL history are present?

It interests me a lot o hear something from Americans, who see the hot rod aspects and sports car culture of that car and not only the status symbol Mercedes-Benz. That's why I am asking you.

Thanks for any thoughts on that from your perspective.

André

 

I do damage appraisals for a couple vintage insurance companies. And I have had a few SL's to look at. None have been 'hot rodded' or modified. Here in the states, it's an old persons status ride. Even the ones from the 60's are either restored to original or it's a piece of junk. The SL's with gull wings are all in museums or private collections. They aren't on the street.

About the only thing you'll see is an older M/B engine from the 1950's or 1960's in a hot rod because the owner wants to be different.

American's will buy a Corvette or a muscle car like a Mustang, Camaro or Challenger before buying a 'performance' Mercedes. Almost all AMG models are nothing more than 4-door status symbols.

 

Thanks Swifter, by way 1100 of 1400 gullwings ever built went to America.

 

Interesting topic, Coupe.

I have always appreciated the balance of form, function, and class these cars have. The forward thinking and no fear to push the design/engineering envelope. Here are some pics I've saved for future photoshopping ideas I'm working on...

 

Andre, PM sent with my message, from our family to your corporation. Thank you, TR

 

I simply don't buy foreign cars...I prefer my Eldorado(s) over ANY Mercedes...or Infiniti...or Rolls...or...

R-

 

Have owned an SL and would love to have the new AMG Gullwing - but this really doesn't belong on here.

 

I'd rather have a new Challenger!

 

Well opinions we got by the ton my friend.

I would drive an early SL if I had it. And it would not due for me to own a gullwing wither. I would make all the collectors mad by driving it like there was no tomorrow. It was my dream car when I was little and not so bright. i figured when I grew up I could just by one and drive it.

Both models are beautiful cars, perhaps not hot rod fodder but beautiful cars and should be out where the entire world can see them.

 

You could, it's just that the price of admission for an early Gullwing is now what, about a Million Dollars .

 

uhm...i guess they are pretty cool.....they are only owned by rich guys here...