The Mercedes-Benz, a symbol of luxury and sophistication, played a surprisingly prominent role in the suspenseful and chilling atmosphere of the TV series “Bates Motel.” Fans of the show often admire Norma Bates’ iconic green Mercedes, but few know the fascinating behind-the-scenes story of this automotive star. Joe Robinett, the actual owner of one of the Mercedes cars used in filming, steps forward to reveal the definitive truth about the Mercedes In Bates Motel.
Contrary to popular belief, there wasn’t just one, but three Mercedes vehicles that took on the persona of Norma’s car throughout the series. For the inaugural season, a 1972 Mercedes-Benz 4.5 SEL was employed as the sole representative. However, its reliability proved to be an issue, prompting the production team to seek a replacement for the subsequent season.
A 1973 Mercedes-Benz 4.5 SE then entered the scene for season two. This particular model, now owned by Joe Robinett, became the primary “hero car” for the remainder of the series, gracing the screen in approximately 85% of the scenes featuring Norma’s vehicle. To ensure they had backup and cars for specific scenes, a third 1973 Mercedes-Benz 4.5 SE was acquired during season four. However, this third car was used sparingly and had minimal screen presence.
Interestingly, the initial 1972 Mercedes-Benz 4.5 SEL wasn’t entirely retired after its season one duties. It was repurposed for demanding stunt sequences, enduring rough treatment such as crashing through fences and colliding with road signs – scenes where visible damage to the car was required. Eagle-eyed viewers might even notice inconsistencies in the car’s badging, with the rear sometimes displaying “SE” and at other times “SEL” within the same episodes, a subtle nod to the use of different vehicles.
Adding another layer of intrigue, the distinctive engine sound associated with Norma’s mercedes in bates motel is not authentic. Despite all three cars being equipped with robust 4.5-liter gasoline engines, a diesel engine sound effect was artificially added during post-production. This was likely a creative decision to imbue the car with a more distinctive and perhaps slightly rugged character, even though it deviates from the vehicle’s actual auditory profile.
Furthermore, the striking green hue of the mercedes in bates motel is not a standard factory color offered by Mercedes-Benz. The production company specifically chose this unique shade of green to align with the overall visual aesthetic they envisioned for the series. Joe Robinett’s “hero car,” the 1973 SE 4.5, was originally white before undergoing its transformation for the show. Currently, efforts are underway to locate the auto body shop responsible for the custom paint job to ascertain the precise color name and code, adding another piece to the puzzle of this iconic television car.
In conclusion, the mercedes in bates motel is not just one car, but a trio of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, each with its own story within the production. From the initial unreliable SEL to the workhorse SE hero car and the sparingly used third model, Joe Robinett’s insights provide a comprehensive and fascinating look behind the curtain at the automotive star of “Bates Motel,” separating fact from fiction and enriching the viewing experience for fans and car enthusiasts alike.
