Star Moments at Pebble Beach Automotive Week 2024: Mercedes-Benz C 111-II

Star Moments at Pebble Beach Automotive Week 2024: Mercedes-Benz C 111-II and 100-Year-Old Targa Florio Racing Car Shine

A Legacy of Innovation: Mercedes-Benz at Pebble Beach Automotive Week 2024

Mercedes-Benz has a storied history of pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, and this was clearly on display at the Pebble Beach Automotive Week 2024. Among the many highlights were the legendary Mercedes-Benz C 111-II, equipped with a Wankel rotary piston engine, and the century-old Mercedes Targa Florio racing car. These iconic vehicles showcased the brand’s legacy of innovation and excellence, drawing the attention of automotive enthusiasts from around the world.

The Return of the Mercedes-Benz C 111-II: A Wankel-Engine Marvel

First introduced in September 1969, the Mercedes-Benz C 111-II was a groundbreaking super sports car that featured a revolutionary rotary piston engine. This experimental vehicle, which was never mass-produced, captivated the public with its wedge-shaped design and cutting-edge technology. In 2024, Mercedes-Benz Classic resurrected the C 111-II, bringing this piece of automotive history back to life at the Pebble Beach Automotive Week. The car led the Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance, a 100-kilometer route along California’s scenic Highway 1 to Big Sur and back, showcasing its engineering brilliance.

The C 111-II's presence at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in the “Wedge Shaped Concept Cars & Prototypes” category was a significant moment, celebrating the car’s enduring influence on automotive design. Although it was never intended for mass production, the C 111-II remains a symbol of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to exploring new technologies and pushing the limits of what is possible in automotive engineering.

A Century of Racing Heritage: The Mercedes Targa Florio Racing Car

Alongside the C 111-II, the 100-year-old Mercedes Targa Florio racing car also took center stage. This historic vehicle, which features a supercharged engine, represents Mercedes-Benz’s long-standing dedication to motorsport excellence. The Targa Florio, one of the oldest and most challenging road races, was the proving ground for this car a century ago, and it remains a testament to the brand’s engineering prowess.

World Premieres and Historic Tributes

Mercedes-Benz didn’t just look to the past at Pebble Beach Automotive Week 2024; they also introduced new models that continue their tradition of innovation. The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series made its world premiere, embodying the luxury and performance that the Maybach name is known for. Additionally, the limited-edition Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport was unveiled to mark the 130th anniversary of Mercedes-Benz’s motorsport history, celebrating the brand’s first automotive competition victory in 1894.

The event also featured an impressive lineup of historic Mercedes-Benz motorsport vehicles, including the W 154 and W 196 R formula racing cars, and the Sauber-Mercedes C 9. These cars, each with its own story of competition and victory, showcased the brand’s deep roots in motorsport.

Looking Forward: The Definitive History of the C 111

For those eager to learn more about the Mercedes-Benz C 111, an extended English-language version of "C 111 – The Definitive History of the Mysterious Supercar that Never Was" will be available from March 2025. This book offers an in-depth look at the development and significance of this iconic vehicle, solidifying its place in automotive history.

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Whether you're captivated by the innovation of the Mercedes-Benz C 111-II or the rich racing heritage of the Targa Florio car, the legacy of Mercedes-Benz is undeniable. For those in Dubai looking to experience the excellence of Mercedes-Benz, the market for both new and pre-owned models is rich with opportunities. Explore the best deals on Mercedes-Benz cars in Dubai by visiting Auto Trader UAE at www.autotraders.ae. Discover the perfect blend of luxury, performance, and heritage with a Mercedes-Benz today.