You are currently viewing eMercedesBenz' past articles published in August, 2008. Our latest stories can be found here.

Looking for the top stories of the past week on eMercedesBenz? Here they are, all in one convenient, clickable location. Scroll, click and enjoy.

	eMercedesBenz Feature: First Mercedes With A Propeller Drive Shaft Debuts In 1908
	Kicherer Tunes The Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
	2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And CL63 AMG Spy Photos Emerge
	Special Edition 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550 To Benefit Saks Key To The Cure Added To MBUSA.com
	Mercedes-Benz Gullwing Spied Testing In The California Desert
	Mercedes-Benz Classic Days 2008 Set To Kick Off In Great Britain

Keep Reading "Headline Roundup: The Top Stories Of The Week On eMercedesBenz"

After a somewhat prolonged hiatus, a fresh new batch of Mercedes-Benz reviews have managed to make their way into the eMercedesBenz offices, with a grand total of three Mercedes models put through their paces for you reading entertainment.  In this, our latest Mercedes Review Roundup installment, the Mercedes C63 AMG, the SL63 AMG and the ML320 BlueTEC are the trio analyzed, so if you've been contemplating the purchase of any, you'll now have an even better idea of what to expect from each.

As is the case with all our Review Roundups, you can find an excerpt from the first review below as well as the full collection of articles immediately after the jump.


Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (via cnet)
Reviewer's rating: 

"The real reason for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is its performance tuning, which makes it an incredible car to drive. Fitting yourself into the bolstered driver's seat only begins to let you know what the C63 can do. Hit the start button and hear the heavy bark of the engine, and you're getting closer. But it's when you put the shifter into Sport mode and put the hammer down that the C63 reveals its true character. It will pin you to the seat, yet remain planted as you guide it through the turns. What moves the C63 forward is that hand-built 6.2-liter V-8, adorned with a plaque inscribed with the name of the engineer responsible for its assembly. The engine is made from a silicon-aluminum alloy and a new type of coating in the cylinders that decreases friction, according to Mercedes-Benz, which also claims a 4.3-second 0 to 60 mph time..."

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Review Roundup:  The C63 AMG, SL63 AMG And ML320 BlueTEC"

In anticipation of the SEMA Show this November, RENNTech via Modified Luxury & Exotics today has unveiled the first renderings of a model they'll be debuting there:  a Pikes Peak-inspired Mercedes-Benz GLK hybrid.  Although little is known about the performance modifications made to the model, it's one of several GLK's that are guaranteed to be in attendance, with BRABUS, Blvd Customs and Legendary Motorcars (the shop behind the SPEED channel show Dream Car Garage) all set to debut their own tuner versions of Mercedes' newest SUV...

Keep Reading "RENNTech To Debut Pikes Peak-Inspired Mercedes-Benz GLK During SEMA Week"

In the spring of 1908, Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG) launched the new 35 hp model – Daimler’s first car with propeller shaft drive. This type of power transmission from the gearbox to the driven axle via a shaft with universal joints was the most important innovation of the new Mercedes model. The engine, by contrast, was adopted in almost unmodified form from the previous 35 hp model with chain drive. It consisted of two rows of cylinder pairs arranged in line, and it had lateral camshafts and upright valves.

From 1908, the 35 hp model advertised as “cardan car” ushered in the gradual replacement of power transmission by chains between engine and axle at DMG. However, chain drive was to remain in the range of the Stuttgart-based manufacturer, parallel to propeller shaft drive, for several years to come. In particular, heavy and powerful cars continued to be fitted with chain drive which was considered to be more comfortable...

Keep Reading "eMercedesBenz Feature:  First Mercedes With A Propeller Drive Shaft Debuts In 1908"

Hot on the heels of Kicherer's tuning package for the Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, Bo of Sportbilen.se sent us an exclusive first look he captured recently of another tuning package for the new AMG-powered roadster:  the Carlsson CK63.  Packing an impressive 565 horsepower, the Carlsson CK63 is capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds (identical to that of the Kicherer), while top speed comes in at a more-than-sufficient 201 mph.

As for styling, the CK63 boasts the usual array of Carlsson accents.  A new front spoiler, rear diffuser, rear spoiler and grille insert are all present, as are 20-inch ultra light wheels.  Carlsson's sport suspension and exhaust systems have also been added, improving the model's handling and audible note, while a Carlsson leather interior ensures a luxurious-yet-sporty cockpit by which to pilot your beloved SL...

Keep Reading "First Look At The Carlsson CK63 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG"

The Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG is a unique creature, in that despite its impressive performance attributes, it's received a rather mixed reaction from the automotive community as a result of its updated exterior.  At first even I was hesitant of the changes made to the model, but as time has progressed, I will admit I like the current SL range, and I do consider the new styling to be an improvement over the old. 

Enter Kircherer. 

In an attempt to make the Mercedes SL63 AMG even more appealing, the German tuning firm has taken the route many tuners do, enlisting the help of some carbon fiber and added horsepower to make the model even more dynamic.  Specifically, they've bumped horsepower by 40 (increasing total output to 565 hp), thrown on a new carbon fiber rear diffusor and side mirrors, added new 20-inch light alloy wheels, and equipped it with a new exhaust system...

Keep Reading "Kicherer Tunes The Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG"

While he was out capturing photos of the future Mercedes-Benz Gullwing, our friend Rich of Automotive Traveler also managed to grab a few shots of what we would surmise to be the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG and CL63 AMG testing in the California desert.  As evidenced by the heavy masking in the S63 AMG photo, a revised front apron is unquestionably in the works for the model – an exterior enhancement that, when paired with the new front grille, will likely be the most notable change to the 2010 variant.  Although not visible in the photos, a new front apron will likely make its way onto the 2010 AMG-powered C-Class models as well...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG And CL63 AMG Spy Photos Emerge"

Last month Mercedes-Benz USA announced that for the sixth consecutive year, they along with the EIF Women's Cancer Research Fund and Saks Fifth Avenue would be teaming up for the KEY TO THE CURE initiative.  As part of their support, MBUSA announced their plans to introduce a special edition model to benefit the cause – a 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550 clad in a Diamond White metallic exterior paint color and featuring a Sahara beige and black interior – with proceeds from the limited edition model expected to raise more than $1 million dollars for women's cancer research.

Today this model has been added to MBUSA.com, with a somewhat more comprehensive listing of the various features found on the special edition S550.  Highlights include an AMG sport package, heated and active ventilated front seats, drive-dynamic multicontour front seats (each with 4-level massage), Bluetooth interface with hands-free calling, Parktronic audiovisual parking assistant, Keyless Go and a rear view camera, all of which compliment the S550's already lengthy list of standard features...

Keep Reading "Special Edition 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550 To Benefit Saks Key To The Cure Added To MBUSA.com"

Less than a month after we brought you the first spy photos showcasing the rebirth of the legendary Mercedes-Benz Gullwing, spy photographer extraordinaire Rich Truesdell has captured yet another impeccable look at the future supercar – one that this time offers a high resolution view of the model testing in the California desert.   As you'll see, the next Gullwing still boasts an exceptional amount of camouflage, but the aura of the former 300 SL is still present, providing you use a bit of imagination.

In addition to the various photos they captured of the Gullwing, Automotive Traveler also published a number of details specifying what they believe we can expect from the forthcoming model.  As we mentioned in the past, power is likely to come from AMG's 6.2-Liter V8 outputting around 600 horsepower, mated to a 8-speed transaxle.  Curb weight is expected to come in under 1,700 kilograms with the help of an ultra-stiff aluminum and carbon fiber space frame, the result of which will be a 0-62 mph time of about 3.7 seconds. And in terms of size, the next Gullwing is expected to be slightly larger than the outgoing SLR McLaren, with early estimates giving the Merc a length of roughly 4,650mm, a width of 1,950mm and a height of 1,250mm...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Gullwing Spied Testing In The California Desert"

When the St. Moritz Art Masters Festival Kicks off August 29th, lending their support to the event will be Daimler AG as well as  its Mercedes-Benz, AMG and smart brands.  Visitors to the event will be able to witness firsthand two exhibits from the Daimler Art Collection featuring about 30 pieces in total, with highlights including works by Josef Albers, John M Armleder, Max Bill, Sylvie Fleury, Richard Paul Lohse, Shiro Matsui, Anselm Reyle, Gerwald Rockenschaub, Pietro Sanguineti and Andy Warhol.

In addition to Daimler's art display, AMG will be on hand to give visitors to the event either solo or guided test drives of the brand’s various models through the Engadin Mountains. For those who favor a more compact art form, smart will also be on display, with an exhibition space and lounge at the flagship store of international fashion label Jet Set planned that will showcase works from from the brand's book: sideways – a smart art project...

Keep Reading "Daimler AG And Mercedes-Benz At The 2008 'St. Moritz Art Masters'"

Now entering its ninth year, Mercedes-Benz Classic Days is once again set to kick off, with this year's festivities being held for the first time in Great Britain.  Under the slogan "variety is the spice of life," the eight day event will be take place at Mercedes-Benz World in England, with the venue serving as the base camp for the event as a whole and the start and finish points for the diverse array of activities that will take place throughout the week.

As for what activities those partaking in the event will be able to experience, the week will be split up into two modules – Sport and Rally events – allowing drivers to take part in either one or both of the modules' various events.  Under the Sport events, highlights include a DTM race at Brands Hatch which includes a lap of honor around the racetrack, while sports regularity trials on the former Brands Hatch grand prix circuit are also planned. Under the Rally events, events planned include a driver safety training session, the ability to explore the Goodwood racetrack, (otherwise closed to the public), a tour of Windsor Castle and a Concours d’Elégance. There's a host of additional activities planned as well, all of which are included in the press release below...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Classic Days 2008 Set To Kick Off In Great Britain"

Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend.  Kicking things off this bright Monday morning comes news that starting August 29th, Mercedes-Benz TV will be available via TV DIGITAL Personal (in addition to its regular online programming). Set to be launched at the forthcoming IFA consumer electronics trade fair in Berlin, TV DIGITAL Personal is a new technology that will offer viewers the ability to select their own personalized program from all the existing TV and Internet TV channels, custom tailored to their unique wishes and interests.  As part of the service, Mercedes-Benz TV will appear as a fully independent channel alongside the other available public and private TV channels...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz TV To Be Featured As Independent Channel On TV DIGITAL Personal"

Looking for the top stories of the past week on eMercedesBenz? Here they are, all in one convenient, clickable location. Scroll, click and enjoy.

	2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Spy Photos Emerge
	Mercedes-Benz Mixed Tape 22 And Mixed Tape Music Magazine Now Available
	Mercedes-Benz S-Class Named Best New Luxury Car By Auto Express For Third Consecutive Year
	Mercedes-Benz Launches The New Actros With A 350 Unit Sendoff
	Mercedes-Benz Honors Jochen Mass At Pebble Beach Gala
	eMercedesBenz Feature: The Supercharged Cars Of Mercedes-Benz In The 1920s And 1930s

Keep Reading "Headline Roundup: The Top Stories Of The Week On eMercedesBenz"

At Daimler-Benz, the first newly developed heavy-duty truck after the war was the L 6600. Large-scale production of this untiring workhorse with a payload capacity of 6,600 kilograms began in October 1950. The L 6600 with its OM 315 pre-chamber diesel engine – 145 hp, 8.3 liters – originated from the Gaggenau plant which would fully concentrate on the heavy-duty class from then on.

With respect to the engine, the plant promised that it would “not be unusual for the L 6600 to cover 200,000 kilometers or more without any engine repairs.” Chrome-plated top piston rings were to double the service life of the cylinder liners; the crankshaft was running in seven “hardened lead-and-bronze bearings” which, prior to installation, were subjected to painstaking x-ray checks in final inspection. The sales strategists enthused about the “completely vibration-free suspension of the engine in rubber mounts, realized for the very first time in an engine of this size...”

Keep Reading "eMercedesBenz Feature:  The Mercedes-Benz L 6600, The First Newly Designed Post-War Heavy Duty Truck"

New spy photos of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class have emerged today that highlight the various changes we can expect when the model undergoes its midlife refreshening. Although the revisions are subtle, key points of interest include a grille with a slightly more pronounced v-shape, headlights that will reportedly feature LED daylight driving lamps on the sides (flashers will move to the bottom), an updated front and rear apron, distinctly more squared-off side mirrors and revised taillights that may or may not continue to feature the colored strips found on the current model...

Keep Reading "2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Spy Photos Emerge"

If you're a fan of Mercedes' Mixed Tape service, you'll be delighted to hear that the newest installment – the Mercedes-Benz Mixed Tape 22 – is now available, along with a new Mixed Tape Music Magazine. Highlights of the latest Mercedes Mixed Tape include "Baby I Like Your Groove" by Tall Baby, "Saving All My Love" by Goldstrand, "Sunshine" by Tall Stories and "Mistakes" by Sodatones, while the new Mixed Tape Music Magazine centers around the theme of "Global Music Village..."

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Mixed Tape 22 And Mixed Tape Music Magazine Now Available"

Adding to its already distinguished résumé, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has once again been named the best new luxury car in the Auto Express "New Car Honours." This marks the third consecutive year the S-Class has won the award, a further testament to the luxury sedan's impressive dominance in its respective segment.

According to Auto Express editor in chief David Johns:  "Few cars have reigned over such competitive sectors with such complete authority as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. To many there simply isn’t a better limousine. Beautifully engineered both inside and out, it’s one of those rare cars that is as good to drive as it is to be driven in..."

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz S-Class Named Best New Luxury Car By Auto Express For Third Consecutive Year"

The official launch of the new Mercedes-Benz Actros is just two short days away (August 23, 2008), so to celebrate, Mercedes did the only logical thing they could do:  they had one gargantuan kickoff party.  In total, the company assembled roughly 350 Actros demonstration vehicles at their Wörth plant in Germany, and one by one, every thirty seconds, sent off the new Actros' to Mercedes-Benz dealerships and company-owned Daimler outlets across Germany. Driving the trucks were salesman from throughout the country, while the Actros' departed based on their destination, with those traveling the farthest leaving first...

Keep Reading "Mercedes-Benz Launches The New Actros With A 350 Unit Sendoff"