Is it possible to cultivate a diverse and exciting car collection when every vehicle shares the same iconic three-pointed star? Absolutely. While a garage housing only Mercedes-Benz models might not present the stark contrast of a Fiat 500 beside a hulking Toyota Land Cruiser, the spectrum of driving experiences, design philosophies, and emotional connections within the Mercedes-Benz marque is remarkably broad. For me, this very marque has become the heart of my automotive passion, and I am fortunate enough to own six distinct examples.
My fascination with automobiles has been a lifelong journey, so deeply rooted that pinpointing its origin is lost to time. Despite living in France, my automotive affections have always leaned towards German engineering, specifically Mercedes-Benz. If I were to trace the roots of this loyalty, I would undoubtedly point to my father. Like many car enthusiasts, my passion is inherited. He owned a W201 Turbo Diesel during my childhood, sparking my deep dive into the history of the “Baby Benz.” I was captivated by its aesthetics, its unexpected racing pedigree – remember Senna’s masterful performance in the 190E Cosworth at the Nürburgring? – and the sheer variety within the 190 model range.
The Thrill of the 190E Cosworth
My personal journey with the 190E Cosworth began with the acquisition of a 2.3-liter, 16-valve model – the very engine configuration that cemented the 190E’s sporting credentials. It even came in the same shade of silver as Senna’s race machine! Owning this car has been nothing short of a dream. It’s been exceptionally reliable, a testament to Classic Mercedes Benz engineering, and I’ve ensured it receives the care it deserves. While I may not possess Senna’s racing prowess, I find immense joy in exploring the backroads, especially when the asphalt is damp, allowing for some spirited drifts through sweeping corners and undulating landscapes.
Expanding the W201 Family
My appreciation for the W201 chassis runs so deep that I expanded my collection with two more examples. One is a black 190E, into which I’ve transplanted a 3.0-liter straight-six engine, replacing the original 2.6-liter unit. Further enhancing its sporting character, I added a body kit reminiscent of the Cosworth 190E, upgraded the suspension with Bilstein B6 dampers, and embraced the bold ’80s aesthetic with Brabus Monoblock II wheels. This particular 190E is dedicated to track days, and it has seen action at several circuits, including a memorable trip to the Nürburgring Nordschleife last spring. That day was incredible, albeit with a stressful ending when a generator failure resulted in a 300-kilometer drive home powered solely by the car’s battery. The most recent addition to my W201 trio is a Turbo Diesel, echoing my father’s car. While not pictured here, it’s destined for regular use.
The W123 280 AMG Tribute
Before my W201 obsession took hold, there was the W123 280 – my first Mercedes-Benz. The story of its acquisition is quite serendipitous. Shortly after a new neighbor moved in, our conversation naturally drifted to cars, and inevitably, to Mercedes-Benz. He mentioned owning a low-mileage 280 sedan, and his predicament of needing to re-home it from Belgium due to limited garage space and his son’s lack of interest. Recognizing my enthusiasm, he offered me the car on one condition: “Restore it, but don’t sell it.” And just like that, I became the custodian of a rusty but running W123, acquired for free!
I honored my promise and embarked on restoring the W123, transforming it into an AMG tribute. The rust was professionally addressed with new metalwork, followed by a fresh coat of paint. I decided to pay homage to the iconic V8-powered AMG W123s of the 1980s. While my 280 might not possess the same raw power – its carbureted engine places it closer to the Moroccan taxi variant in terms of outright speed – the engine is remarkably smooth, delivers ample torque, and is a joy to drive. Beyond the paintwork, I added rear window louvers, 16” Rial wheels, and a BBS front spoiler, completing the period-correct AMG-inspired aesthetic.
Practicality Meets Passion: The S124 300 TE 4-Matic
Another passion of mine is vintage bicycles, and this is where my S124 wagon truly shines. My 1991 300 TE 4-Matic is rarely seen without a bicycle mounted on its roof. I also have a keen interest in film photography, and the S124’s capable four-wheel-drive system is invaluable. In my opinion, the 4-Matic system is arguably more advanced than Audi’s Quattro of the same era, offering three distinct modes – a 30/70 torque split, a 50/50 distribution, and a third mode with a locking differential. This versatility allows my S124 to reach almost any location I need to capture the perfect shot. It’s a vehicle brimming with practicality, and I strive to utilize its capabilities as often as possible. It has reliably served me and countless loads carried within.
Realizing a Dream: The R129 280 SL Mille Miglia Edition
The newest member of my collection is a 1995 R129 280 SL Mille Miglia edition. This special model is one of only 630 produced, and owning any SL, especially a rare variant like this, has been a long-held aspiration. Now that this dream is a reality, I’m savoring every moment of ownership. It’s wonderful to reflect on the rich lineage of SL models that preceded this car. Bruno Sacco’s design is timeless in my eyes, and beyond its striking aesthetics, the R129 is simply a fantastic car to drive. While not a sports car in the purest sense, it excels as a luxurious tourer, a quality confirmed during an 800-kilometer journey to the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
My name is Maxence Benoist, I am 26 years old, and it’s remarkable how much of the good in my life I can attribute to a single automotive brand. From career opportunities to friendships and unforgettable journeys, the three-pointed star of Mercedes-Benz has consistently guided my path.
