The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing car, first produced in 1953 as a tiny model, is a mere twelve centimetres long (4.7 inches). Even at such a small size, for th artists, it is more than enough space to recreate a detailed copy of the legendary racer. The Dux brand toy car, manufactured by Markes and Co. in Lüdenscheid, marked the beginning of a great and fascinating tradition. The history of toy and model cars based on various incarnations of the Mercedes-Benz SL sports car is almost as long as that of the SL class itself.

This link between real-life cars and their model versions is a constant factor in the history of the automobile. From race cars and sports cars to saloons and even heavy trucks, the toys and models represent vehicles of every type and period. “The history of the motor car is always also the history of the model car”, according to the foreword in the catalogue for the exhibition ‘Models. Design, toy, cult. Mercedes-Benz’, which was held from 2000 until 2001 at the Kunsthalle art gallery in Tübingen.

Technological treasures in a miniature format

The desire to represent important elements of our lives in model form is as old as human culture itself, as demonstrated by the prehistoric animal figures and replicas of carts from antiquity. Since the invention of the automobile by Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler in 1886, the motor car has established itself as a firm favourite both in children’s nurseries and collectors’ display cabinets.

Sports cars evoke particularly strong emotions in their original versions, so it’s no surprise that their scaled-down counterparts also present an exciting chapter in the story of model cars. Among the types most often represented in miniature format is the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupé (W 198 I, 1954 to 1957) and the 190 SL (W 121, 1955 to 1963). Both remain popular models for new miniatures. These classic sports cars showcase the wide range of sizes, materials, and attention to detail that characterises the culture of model cars.

The collections show how innovative processes entered the toy industry, as deep-drawn tin bodies gave way to injection-moulded plastic and metal versions. Wind-up engines were replaced by electric drives – both for cable and radio-controlled cars and for electric race track models.

Reflecting the SL tradition

All of the other Mercedes-Benz SL sports cars also enjoy great popularity in the world of toy and model cars, right from the moment they are first launched. Six decades of SL tradition have seen the creation of a whole universe of miniatures of these Mercedes-Benz sports cars, from the W 194 racing car and model series W 198 (300 SL) and W 121 (190 SL) to the ‘Pagoda’ W 113 from 1963 and model series R 107 (1971), R 129 (1989), R 230 (2001) and R 231 (2012).

Over the same period, there was an increasingly noticeable differentiation in the purpose and the target groups for these miniatures. On the one side were the sturdy replicas of Mercedes-Benz originals made for active play, while on the other was an increasing number of more and more detailed models whose intricate designs appealed mostly to collectors who wanted to display these little works of art in showcases.

Sports cars – a new beginning for Mercedes-Benz and the toy industry

When the miniature of the 300 SL racing car (W 194) was released under the Dux (lat. ‘leader’) brand in 1953, the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL gullwing coupé of model series W 198 was still a secret development project of the engineers and designers. Just a few years after the end of the Second World War, this achievement of the toy manufacturing industry must be rated as highly as the innovative power and performance of Mercedes-Benz, where the groundbreaking sports car was being developed at the same time. Matthias Braun reminds readers of this fact in his book ‘Mercedes. Sportscar scale models’ published in 1998.

The design of the 1953 Dux model was, of course, based on the profile of the racing car. But the W 194 already gave a taste of the line and the aesthetics of the 300 SL production vehicle that was launched at the International Motor Sports Show in New York in 1954. The toy industry was happy to take this bright new beginning for Mercedes-Benz in the sports car sector as an incentive to create a whole new world of models.

In technical terms, the 1953 Dux miniature was designed and built according to the traditional principles used in most toy cars of the period: the body was deep-drawn from tin and then joined to the frame. This technique was used as long ago as the mid-1930s, in the legendary replica of the Mercedes-Benz W 25 racing car produced by Schuco. This little Silver Arrow is still being made today.

For its 300 SL, Dux decided not to use the normal process of sticking tin flaps through slots and then bending them over, but instead went for screw fastenings. This method enabled the proud owner of the model to open the 300 SL (screwdrivers and spanners were supplied) and even to remove the wind-up engine. A few years later, the metal construction kit ‘Auto-Dux’ even contained a dismantled version of the 190 SL (W 121), which had to be assembled before you could play with it.

SL sports cars were later also offered as plastic model kits by a variety of manufacturers. The change from tin to plastic represents a paradigm shift that affected the entire model car sector. Not only were new materials introduced, but different manufacturing techniques and other forms of propulsion became established, especially from the 1960s.

But the fascination of the original remains when you hold a wind-up tin car in your hands: these toys are technical reminders of the period characterised by the 300 SL as the first series sports car in its family. In the 1990s, Märklin used this very technology to produce an impressive large-scale model of the W 198 I, including a limited edition for the 40th anniversary of the Federal State of Baden-Württemberg (silver) and a museum model (red).

300 SL models emulate export success

Soon after the launch of the W 198 I, a large number of tin miniatures of the gullwing coupé hit the international toy market. Many of them were rather crudely made, like the many versions manufactured in Japan. These tin models of the 300 SL didn’t sell very well in Germany, and the vast majority of them sold in foreign markets. This is another parallel between the original Mercedes-Benz car and the model versions: both were successful exports right from the start.

However, now and again some very fine miniatures were produced in Germany, such as the model made by Tipp & Co./Tippco, “with an electric drive and a properly functioning steering column shift”, according to Matthias Braun. This toy car not only lived up to the technical standards of the original, it also matched the luxury sports car in price: the 300 SL from Tipp & Co./Tippco would set you back DM23, an awful lot of money for a toy in the mid-1950s.

While German toy manufacturers showed some reluctance towards the 300 SL at first, this all changed in 1955 with the 190 SL Roadster. Matthias Braun reports that over 80 per cent of all models of this open-top sports car were made by traditional German firms such as Gama, Huki (Kienberger), JNF, Kellermann, Schuco, and Seidel. In terms of design, these miniatures followed the models of the 300 SL, i.e. they had a tin body that was painted or lithographed.

Technical innovations in the toy sector

Not all technical details of a real sports car can be accurately reproduced in a model. But since the launch of the first 300 SL as a competition car, development in the toy sector has been characterised by a number of innovations. These range from the production of the body through injection moulding to using processes such as photo-etching for the decor. This development can be seen particularly well in the 300 SL from model series W 198 I and the 190 SL from model series W 121. Both of these Mercedes-Benz sports cars are still being offered in model form by a number of manufacturers – with huge variations in their attention to detail.

The process of evolution undergone by models can be demonstrated using the example of the 300 SL Coupé by Wiking, made from plastic on a scale of 1:87, which was first introduced with the 1956 price list. At that time, the gullwing sports car, on the same scale as an H0 gauge model railway, had a body without holes for the windows, and with the glass of the headlights represented by colour. In 1960, this was followed by a 300 SL with a transparent windscreen and windows – to go with the 190 SL with coupé roof introduced by Wiking in 1957. Wiking continued to produce more and more refined versions of the gullwing coupé, culminating in a version with an intricate radiator grille and bumpers.

In addition to the finer details, technical functionality is also in demand. Around 1960, there was not only a model of the ‘Pagoda’ by Gama with a removable hardtop, but even a 230 SL (W 113) by Schuco with a fully-functioning four-speed transmission.

Mercedes-Benz quality in model form

Many manufacturers continue to strive for ever-better models in a range of different scales. This inevitably leads to an increased demand for precise information about the originals. Mercedes-Benz has always been a much sought-after partner for the toy industry. Back in 1961, a manufacturer of ‘children’s cars’ contacted Daimler to ask for detailed drawings and photos to use as templates for their pedal cars, which were about 1.5 metres long.

Today, Mercedes-Benz promotes the development of high-quality collectors’ models for its own Classic Collection, in collaboration with well-known manufacturers. These models are sold exclusively through Mercedes-Benz sales and service outlets, Mercedes-Benz dealerships, the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the online shop. In these collaborations Mercedes-Benz puts a great emphasis on authenticity, for instance regarding original paint finishes, trims and decors – all the way to the correct starting numbers for special models commemorating important racing wins for Mercedes-Benz.

And so, when an ardent collector finds exactly the high-quality miniature of an 300 SL coupé or 190 SL Roadsters he has been looking for in the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection, we come full circle. Because the enthusiasm for the “harmony of design reconciled with the finesse of technical construction”, which the ethnologist Hermann Bausinger has described as the source of our fascination with collectors’ items, is a modern-day echo of the enthusiasm felt by the audience in 1954 at the launch of the 300 SL Coupé and 190 SL in New York.

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, also known as the S‑Class amongst SUV’s, is now also available a few sizes smaller.  In cooperation with Norev, Mercedes‑Benz is now offering the new GL‑Class as a true-to-original miniature. The miniatures designed using the original CAD data and assembled by hand are available in two scales and five original paint colours.

Norev assembles over 120 individual parts to build the GL to a scale of 1:18. The model measures around 28.5 centimetres and is made of die-cast zinc. Beneath the front bumper is a large underride guard in chrome-look and the tailpipes of the exhaust system are integrated into the rear bumper. The doors, bonnet and tailgate can be opened. The backrests of the seats in the second and third rows of seats can be folded forward. The interior and boot floor are flocked.

Even according to Mercedes standards, the accuracy of detail in the interior reaches a new dimension: 1:18 scale models usually have around 150 decorations – a term which model car enthusiasts understand to mean the application of details by means of stamping, pattern painting, hot-foil stamping, stickers and chrome-plating of parts. The miniature GL-Class sets new standards here with up to 253 decorations (depending on the equipment colour). The colour combinations also correspond exactly to the original, thus the paint colour diamond white can be combined with the interior colour black tobacco brown marron, whilst the trim elements used are in brown ash.

The equipment includes the panoramic roof, xenon headlamps with the Intelligent Light System (ILS) and LED daytime running lamps, a third-row rear bench seat and light-alloy wheels in a 10-twin-spoke design. The model car is available in diamond white, obsidian black and iridium silver for 69.90 Euros [1] . A glove is included to protect the glazing and painted body work against fingerprints. The screwdriver included in the pack can be used to easily remove the model from the designer packaging.

The second miniature of the off-roader is in a scale of 1:43 and measures almost twelve centimetres. This die-cast zinc model is also constructed by Norev and comprises more than 55 individual parts. Diamond white, cavansite blue and citrine brown are the choice of genuine paint colours available. These can be combined with authentic interior colours and the corresponding trim elements. The equipment details include the front bumper with large underride guard, rear bumper with visible yet fully integrated tailpipes, panoramic roof, xenon headlamps with the Intelligent Light System (ILS) and LED daytime running lamps, a third-row rear bench seat and light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design. The model is delivered in a presentation display case on a printed base plate and costs 29.90 Euros.

The model cars are available online at http://shop.mercedes-benz.de and from Mercedes‑Benz sales partners.

[1] All prices are recommended retail prices for Germany incl. 19% VAT

Car enthusiasts have been dreaming of owning their own Mercedes-Benz SL for 60 years. But it is not just the genuine article in the garage that provokes covetous looks. High-grade miniatures of this luxury sports car have also long been sought after. Following the market launch of the new SL, the Mercedes-Benz Collection now includes the roadster – faithfully reproduced in every detail, down to the original paintwork – as 1:87, 1:43 and 1:18 scale models.

The miniatures match the classic SL proportions and an incredible attention to detail covering everything from the air outlets to the lovingly recreated interior. Developed using the original CAD data, the hand-assembled precision models are extraordinarily faithful to the original and comprise up to 104 component parts. The roadster roof is enclosed separately.

These collectors’ models, produced in partnership with the well-known manufacturers Herpa and Norev, are available from Mercedes-Benz sales and service outlets, Mercedes-Benz dealerships, the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the online shop.

All model cars in the Mercedes-Benz Collection come in Mercedes-Benz designer packaging. A screwdriver is enclosed with the 1:18 scale models, allowing the model to be removed from its screw-fastened packaging with the minimum of fuss. The cars also come with a glove to protect the miniature from fingerprints.

This is an overview of the three SL miniatures:

Mercedes-Benz released a complete fashion collection inspired by both Formula 1 and DTM motorsports. Comprisied of a wide variety of sporty and dynamic fashion items as well as functional accessories, the collection’s high-quality materials, refined features, authentic designs and excellent workmanship are a perfect match for the high standards set by Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The dynamic world of Formula 1 is the theme on which the Formula One Selection 2011 is based. Men’s T-shirts in black with Michael Schumacher’s name (also available for children), or in white and featuring Nico Rosberg’s name, as well as caps in the team colours of grey/white/petronas green with the signatures of one of the two Grand Prix drivers, all give their wearers the opportunity to create their own motorsport look. All items also bear the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS logo.

For those who do not have a favourite driver but still want to feel part of the exciting motorsport scene, there is also a choice of fashionable clothing and caps without the drivers’ names. For example, the Team Selection range includes an authentic team shirt in silver-grey with cutaway collar and Mercedes-Benz and PETRONAS logo, as well as all of the sponsor logos. The same style is reflected in the men’s and women’s team polo shirts in black. By way of exceptional accessories, the Formula One Selection 2011 includes a lanyard with carabiner hook, a set of earplugs presented in a small, elegant aluminium case, or a drinking bottle finished in matt black aluminium with insulating neoprene lid.

The special fascination for the DTM race series has been expressed in another selection of products, also comprising a men’s black T-shirt and a cap – each featuring a printed or embroidered DTM vehicle and DTM logo.

In addition, the Mercedes-Benz Motorsports Highlights Selection 2011 is also made up of attractive fashions and popular accessories which do not reference any specific race series but nevertheless reflect the close connection with Mercedes-Benz motorsport thanks to Mercedes-Benz motorsport logos and various printed motorsport elements. This collection includes a functional waterproof men’s jacket in black with inner mesh lining, zip with star emblem, mobile phone pocket and two inside pockets with Velcro fasteners, a men’s polo shirt and also men’s and women’s white T-shirts. The women’s shirts feature a rhinestone Mercedes-Benz star on the chest area.

The glittering star is also to be found on the front of the matching women’s cap in white, with elegant coloured embroidered Mercedes-Benz motorsport logo. The men’s cap in black has light grey mesh inserts on the sides, which help the wearer to keep a cool head even in the heat of the racing action.

Thanks to their stylish design, the attractive accessories of this selection are bound to be the centre of attention. Prestigious manufacturers help to ensure high quality. The same applies to the three new models of watch – two of which have real carbon dials, while the third is limited to 1500 examples – as well as a pair of high-quality Rodenstock sunglasses, a carbon-fibre ballpoint pen, a highly functional sports bag with toiletry bag, wash bag and shoe bag, a rucksack made by Deuter with special back system for high wear comfort, a stylish beach towel from Möve, an innovative kite-shaped, two-person golf umbrella, seat cushions, wallets and children’s earmuffs from UVEX.

Finely-made and highly-detailed models from well-known manufacturer Minichamps provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to add the world of Mercedes-Benz racing cars to their collection. One particular highlight is Michael Schumacher’s Formula 1 car from the 2010 season, faithfully recreated in 1:18 scale. The 2010 season MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula 1 cars of Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg are also available in the popular scale of 1:43, while other 1:43-scale models include the AMG-Mercedes C-Class vehicles, which caused something of a stir during the last DTM race season. The prototypical miniature cars are finished in the colours of drivers Gary Paffett, Bruno Spengler, Paul di Resta, Ralf Schumacher and David Coulthard.

Mercedes-Benz has only just presented the new SLK and the facelifted C-Class yet already the sporty roadster, dynamic saloon and attractive estate are now available in finely crafted model car form. Each of the miniatures has been specially produced for Mercedes-Benz Accessories, and all are a delight to behold thanks to their prototypical workmanship.

Large or small, Mercedes-Benz cars are always able to generate a sense of fascination, both in their original size as well as in model format. Among true-to-scale miniatures, the models of the Mercedes-Benz Model Car Selection enjoy a very special position. This is because the Product Management Division and the Sindelfingen Design Studios of Mercedes-Benz ensure that they feature consistent proportions, harmoniously flowing, light-catching contours, and also some very precise details. The focus of the models is squarely on remaining true to the original. And it is only when such details as windscreen wipers, exterior mirrors or door handles are able to pass close scrutiny that the models are accepted into the Mercedes-Benz Model Car Selection.

It is precisely these demanding standards which the models of the new SLK have also been designed to meet. Available with immediate effect, they come in the popular scales of 1:87 for model railway layouts and 1:43 for collectors, as well as a 1:18 large-scale version for those model enthusiasts with an eye for detail. There is also a variety of original paint finishes and interior appointments to choose from. In the case of the smaller models, a roadster roof is supplied which can also be fitted; in the 1:18-scale variant, this roof comes already folded down and stored in the luggage compartment.

The new SLK model cars have been produced by well-known manufacturers in consultation with Mercedes-Benz. The 1:87-scale model is produced by HO-scale specialist Herpa and costs 15.90 euros. The 1:43-scale variant is made by Schuco and is available for 29.90 euros. The highly-detailed 1:18-scale edition, meanwhile, is produced by Minichamps and carries a price tag of 69.90 euros. This particular model is ideal for displaying on a desk or bookshelf, ensuring that the exciting new SLK is never far from view.

Another new miniature addition to the Mercedes-Benz Model Car Selection is the facelifted C-Class. It comprises two variants each of the saloon and the estate – featuring different paint finishes and a variety of appointment details – all available in a scale of 1:43. Each edition costs 29.90 euros.