Irrefutable proof that AMG/M-B has no respect for heritage

[Speedraser]

If they could do this to one (actually 11) of the most celebrated and iconic Benzes of all time, then they clearly have no respect whatsoever for heritage or history. I shudder to think what they'll do to Aston Martin given the chance

http://www.rmauctions.com/lots/lot.cfm?lot_id=1065...

[RichB]

You've posted in the wrong section - you need to go here Pistonheads > Gassing Station > Other Marques > Mercedes

[IanV12VR]

RichB said:

You've posted in the wrong section - you need to go here Pistonheads > Gassing Station > Other Marques > Mercedes

[Dick Dastardly]

Ghastly. Another Sultan of Brunei monstrosity.

[InductionRoar]

Never have a set of wheels looked so out of place.

[StephenP]

Old news. One of the 11 cars has been in Mercedes World at Brooklands for quite a while (possibly this one?) and it was built by AMG as a special order from someone you don't really say no to!

Funny thing is ... I actual quite like it, having seen it in the flesh. I'm not even that concerned about the wheels.

I think it is a bit harsh to such either MB or AMG have no interest in heritage as it is simply not true. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth and they have more interest in their heritage that AM do ....

[DAMIT]

This story goes some way to counter the OP statement.

http://www.pistonheads.com/news/default.asp?storyI...

[bob1179]

Other than the wheels I think it looks great. That engine is an absolute peach too, a nice modern useable take on a classic that is endorsed by the manufacturer.

[downr]

So the irrefutable is being refuted?

[RichB]

[Speedraser]

DAMIT said:

This story goes some way to counter the OP statement.

http://www.pistonheads.com/news/default.asp?storyI...

No, it doesn't. It merely shows that they don't want someone else ripping off the Gullwing's design and making copies. Simple.

[Speedraser]

downr said:

So the irrefutable is being refuted?

No -- see above...

[vankypanky]

well i like it. it is a shame about the wheels but not a deal breaker. i think it is good to bring back some of the old stuff with a modern twist.

i fancy a split screen camper with a W12 in it.

[KarlFranz]

How is this any different from the video tour of the AM Works facility I saw on YouTube where they show classic Astons being retrofitted with a/c, etc?

[cardigankid]

Had you noticed that Eagle are doing this to E-Types all the time, and a fair number of Aston Martin DB5's have massively uprated running gear. Various people have been upgrading Mk.II Jags for years, and Jaguar themselves are now at it.

Also, imagine you are a major car manufacturer with an impressive back catalogue. The SULTAN OF BRUNEI (did you miss that too?) comes to you and asks if you would mind upgrading one of your classics with modern running gear. He has got the taste and wherewithal to bring it back to the original manufacturer, rather than a back street marque specialist.

Do you -

a. Laugh at him and have security throw him out.
b. Politely explain that your are in the business of creating classic artworks, not making money, and any variation from original specification would result in his exclusion from civilised society.
c. Do as you are told, to the best of your ability, and charge him a packet.

The point of the OP is no doubt to suggest that MB have no respect for heritage, and are therefore likely to stick AM badges on any high end model. The facts do not support that suggestion. As I have previously argued, AM need a connection like this, and MB have more than enough intelligence to handle the brand appropriately. If the future is as good as RR and Bentley in German hands, that will be good enough for me as a current AM owner.