On the 130th anniversary of Gottlieb Daimler of Bad Cannstatt, Germany, being granted a patent on his motorized bicycle — the world’s first successful vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine! — we thought you’d enjoy seeing some historical photos of the people and the breakthrough cars that led to the fabulous Mercedes-Benz vehicles we have today. We at StarTuned® hope you enjoy them.
 Gottlieb Daimler’s shop as it appeared in 1885.  When Daimler-Benz distributor Emil Jellinek ordered 36 cars, he asked that they start naming them for his daughter…  …Mercedes!  In 1905, Steinway & Sons, the New York piano maker, started producing American Mercedes cars in a Long Island City factory.  The oldest surviving Mercedes, bought by millionaire William K. Vanderbilt in 1902.  The Simplex had a 5.3L four-cylinder, and could hit 47 mph.  The iconic SSK was produced from 1928 to 1932.  Talk about iconic! The 300 SL “Gullwing” was way ahead of its time. It even had mechanical direct injection. |
 Herr Daimler in his 1886 motor carriage with his son Adolf at the wheel.  Karl Benz, 1844-1929.  Bertha Benz, Karl’s wife and business partner,  Our editor’s daughter atop a running 1886 Benz Patent Motorwagen replica.  The engine and flywheel of the ‘86 Benz.  The Blitzen Benz went 142 mph in 1909 — 21.5 Liters and 200 hp.  This big, comfortable 1985 SD 300 marked the 100th anniversary of Benz’s Motorwagen. |
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