Mumbai: Mercedes-Benz, the leading German luxury car manufacturer, organized a one of its kind classic car rally to celebrate 120 years of its rich motorsport heritage. Touring through the heart of Mumbai, the rally showcased some of the finest classic cars from the Mercedes-Benz stable. The rally which also celebrates Mercedes-Benz’s first ever FIA F1 ‘World Constructor’s Championship’ victory, was flagged-off from NCPA by Eberhard Kern, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.

With the event, Mercedes-Benz looks back on a great sporting tradition, one which is closely associated with the history of the automotive brand and still shapes its philosophy to this day.

A pioneering name in motorsports, Mercedes-Benz made history by participating in the world’s first automobile competition in 1894. Having won its first Grand Prix in 1908 and many more accolades ever since, the iconic brand recently won its first ever FIA Formula 1 World Constructors Championship title. Marking a significant team achievement, the win in the United States GP, which is the team’s tenth one-two finish in 2014 season, ensures, only a Mercedes-Benz driver can now win the 2014 Drivers’ title.

Speaking on the occasion, Eberhard Kern, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, stated, “Motorsport is fascinating and fun. Its energy, excitement and ever-changing narrative delights millions. Motorsport also brings people together – in peace and transcending all national borders. Mercedes-Benz’s 120 Years of Motorsport history showcases a unique kaleidoscope of glittering success in different motor racing categories. Our celebration today is even more special because this year Mercedes-Benz has won its first FIA F1 ‘World Constructor’s Championship. This victory is an outcome of years of hard work, unsurpassable commitment and technological prowess by our team of engineers’

“Mercedes-Benz has always enjoyed a close connection with sporting attributes such as team spirit, dedication, responsibility, competition and fairness. These characteristics not only apply to our ultra-modern, highly technically advanced cars; they also reflect the goals of the company and its employees. Today we showcased some of the most iconic cars ever built by the brand which have been a visual treat for the enthusiasts to see these immaculate and timeless cars being driven around Mumbai.” Kern further added.

A rare and one of its kind event, the parade witnessed a diverse range of classic cars adorning the streets of Mumbai which were cheered by large crowds which gathered across the route. Commencing from NCPA Nariman Point, the rally travelled through beloved Mumbai locations such as Peddar Road, the Horniman Circle and Bandra Worli Sea Link. Classics including Pontons such as the W120s, Fintails such as the W110 and the W111, and recent classics like the W124 and the W108 grabbed the attention of the bystanders. Each of the vehicles from the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection shown and driven at the rally open up an exciting chapter from the 120-year history of motor sport at Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes is celebrating a 120 years in motorsport by taking a look back at some of their earliest cars and the races they competed in. Mercedes-Benz reminisces on a great sporting tradition, one which is closely associated with the history of the automotive brand and still shapes its philosophy to this day.

From history’s first motor racing in 1894 to the various current involvements in motor sports, the motor sport activities of Mercedes-Benz and its predecessor brands tell a story of success whose roots date back to the very early days of the motor cars. Since the 19th century, the racing and rally cars from Stuttgart have consistently been at the head of the pack in sporting competitions. Their victories are testimony to innovative technology, the drivers’ will to win and efficient teamwork.

Source : Lokesh Shastri