Mercedes-AMG's Tin-Top Heroes
On 25 July 1971 a Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8, extensively modified by AMG, took everyone by complete surprise in the 24-hour race in Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps to take second place in the overall placings. Experienced drivers Hans Heyer and Clemens Schickentanz took turns at the wheel of the 428 bhp racing saloon. With this coup AMG immediately found fame in the world of motor racing. The following year it was to compete in the 24-hour race at Nürburgring and in the Nuremberg 200 Miles at Norisring. This was where Hans Heyer drove to victory in the 'series and special touring cars over 2000cc' class. These are the races where it all started for Mercedes-Benz and AMG and over the following few decades they would help change the face of touring car racing.
This series of images celebrates some of the best touring cars that Mercedes-Benz and AMG have collaborated on through the years. From the 1971 300 SEL 6.8 to the 1980 450 SLC AMG through to the legendary 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II.