Is it possible to cultivate a diverse and exciting car collection when all your vehicles sport the same три-pointed star? Absolutely. While it might not be as visually contrasting as parking a compact hatchback next to a full-size SUV, the world of Mercedes-Benz offers an incredible spectrum of driving experiences, aesthetic styles, and emotional connections. For me, this rich tapestry is woven entirely by the Mercedes-Benz marque. Currently, my garage houses six of these automotive masterpieces.
My fascination with cars, in general, began in my early years – so early, in fact, that pinpointing the exact moment is lost to memory. Despite residing in France, my automotive affections have always leaned towards Teutonic engineering. If I were to trace my Mercedes-Benz devotion to its origin, I would undoubtedly credit my father. Like many young car enthusiasts, I have my dad to thank for igniting this passion. He owned a W201 Turbo Diesel during my childhood, and I vividly recall immersing myself in research about the history of this “Baby Benz.” I was captivated by its design, its motorsport heritage – including the legendary race where a young Ayrton Senna famously outperformed seasoned drivers in the Cosworth version on a rain-soaked track – and the sheer breadth of models encompassed within the 190 lineage.
My own foray into Cosworth ownership materialized in the form of a 2.3-liter, 16-valve inline-four engine variant, mirroring Senna’s car even in color. This Vintage Mercedes Benz 190E has been an absolute pleasure to own, and I’ve diligently maintained it, just as it has reliably served me. While I may not possess Senna’s Formula 1 prowess, I still relish the occasional controlled drift on rain-slicked country roads. The winding curves and gentle hills of my local landscape provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying this remarkable machine.
Such is my admiration for the W201 chassis that I’ve acquired two more. One is a black example into which I’ve transplanted a 3.0-liter straight-six engine, replacing the original 2.6-liter unit. Further modifications include a Cosworth 190E body kit, Bilstein B6 suspension, and a set of Brabus Monoblock II wheels, fully embracing the bold aesthetic of the 1980s. This particular vintage Mercedes Benz is dedicated to track days, and it has seen action on several circuits, including a memorable trip to the Nürburgring Nordschleife last spring. That day was exhilarating, until a generator failure resulted in a stressful 300-kilometer drive home powered solely by the battery. My most recent W201 acquisition, a Turbo Diesel reminiscent of my father’s car, isn’t pictured here, but it’s destined for frequent use.
Before my W201 era, however, there was the W123 280 – my first Mercedes-Benz. The story of this car began with a new neighbor. Shortly after he moved in, our conversations naturally gravitated towards cars, and inevitably, Mercedes-Benz. He mentioned his low-mileage 280 sedan and his predicament of limited garage space in Belgium, compounded by his son’s lack of interest in the vehicle. Sensing my immediate attraction, he offered me the car on the condition that I restore it and never sell it. This is how I became the custodian of a rusty but drivable W123, acquired for free!
I honored my commitment and embarked on a restoration journey, transforming the W123 into an AMG tribute. The rust-afflicted areas were meticulously repaired with new metal, followed by a fresh coat of paint. I decided to pay homage to one of my favorite 1980s icons, the formidable V8-powered AMG W123s. While my version doesn’t possess the same raw power – its carbureted engine places it closer to the Moroccan taxi cab end of the W123 performance spectrum – it offers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience with ample torque. Beyond the paintwork, I added rear window louvers, 16” Rial wheels, and a BBS front spoiler to complete the AMG-inspired aesthetic of this vintage Mercedes Benz.
Another of my passions is vintage bicycles, and this is where my S124 wagon truly shines. My 1991 300 TE 4-Matic, a versatile vintage Mercedes Benz estate, almost always carries one of my classic bicycles on its roof. I also have a keen interest in film photography, and with its capable four-wheel-drive system – arguably more advanced than contemporary Quattros, offering three distinct modes including a locking differential – my S124 can confidently transport me to virtually any location to capture the perfect shot. This car is a paragon of utility, and I strive to utilize its full potential whenever possible. It has been an invaluable companion, reliably hauling both people and cargo.
Finally, we arrive at the newest addition to my collection: my 1995 R129 280 SL Mille Miglia edition. This special vintage Mercedes Benz roadster is one of only 630 produced. Owning an SL, especially a rare variant like this, had been a long-held aspiration. Now realized, the experience surpasses my expectations, and I often reflect on the distinguished lineage of SL models that preceded this Bruno Sacco-designed beauty. Beyond its timeless aesthetics, the R129 280 SL is simply a delightful car to drive. While not a sports car in the purest sense, it excels as a luxurious tourer, a fact confirmed by an recent 800-kilometer journey to the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
My name is Maxence Benoist, I am 26 years old, and I can already attribute countless positive aspects of my life to a single automotive brand. From career opportunities to friendships and unforgettable journeys, the три-pointed star of Mercedes-Benz has consistently guided my path.
