Driving a classic racing Mercedes car is an unparalleled experience, a testament to engineering excellence and a rich motorsport heritage. As Gert confirms, the handling is remarkably balanced for such a vintage machine. There’s absolutely no hint of understeer, allowing for precise cornering and control. Instead, the responsive 3.0-liter engine enables a playful, easily manageable low-speed oversteer, perfect for navigating tight bends and chicanes. However, as Gert wisely points out, sudden, high-speed oversteer is something to be avoided in such a powerful classic!
The braking system, featuring 16-inch diameter drum brakes, is surprisingly effective for a car of this era. Enhanced by a mechanical servo system, the brakes offer reassuring stopping power without requiring excessive effort. Pushing the racing Mercedes car around the twists and turns of a track truly highlights the impressive side forces it can generate, far exceeding initial expectations. Every aspect of this vehicle conveys the meticulous development and engineering that went into creating it. This isn’t just a car built for a quick qualifying lap; it’s a robust and durable racing machine designed to endure and conquer.
Riding alongside Gert, observing his effortless command at the wheel and his confident gear changes, brings to mind Denis Jenkinson’s admiration for Stirling Moss, often referred to as the “Golden Boy.” Jenkinson famously recounted tales from their legendary Mille Miglia drive. He described moments approaching village entrances at seemingly impossible speeds, where he would watch with captivated confidence as Moss masterfully navigated the situation. Jenkinson’s trust in Moss was absolute, never feeling fear, relying completely on Moss’s skill and the detailed pace notes. Moss, in turn, had unwavering faith in Jenkinson’s navigation. If Jenkinson indicated a blind corner was “flat in third,” Moss executed it without hesitation, even without verbal confirmation over the roar of the engine. Jenkinson, when the intensity of navigation allowed, became a keen observer of the surreal experience. He once recalled overtaking an airplane filming them at approximately 190 mph during the Mille Miglia, a moment that solidified the extraordinary dimension of their racing endeavor.
In conclusion, experiencing a racing Mercedes car is more than just a drive; it’s a journey through motorsport history. It’s a visceral connection to an era of legendary drivers and iconic races, embodied in a machine built for performance, reliability, and the pure thrill of speed.
