Some incredibly rare cars and accessories lurk behind these unassuming barn doors.
Mercedes-Benz was arguably at its peak in the late '80s and early '90s, creating some of the most desirable cars ever made. As these vehicles get older, they've become increasingly collectible, and a little-known cluster of them is nestled away in Surrey, United Kingdom.
The Late Brake Show recently visited this phenomenal collection, which includes some of the rarest and obscure Benzes you've ever heard of. Let's have a look at some of the most exciting cars. One of them is a 1986 190E 2.3-16 with a Mosselman turbo that "makes it incredibly quick," says Neville, the owner.
While it looks the same as a stock model, its keeper notes that there are plans to fit a widebody kit shortly. Neville isn't a big fan of the manual transmission but admits his turbocharged Cosworth is much better with three pedals.
A German unicorn sits right next to it: a 190E 2.6 with an AMG kit and a Turbo Technics twin-turbo conversion. The owner has fitted AMG shocks and springs for even better handling, while the interior has been updated with a Momo steering wheel. The 190E is already a hoot to drive; we can only imagine how great this car must feel.
On the opposite end of the size scale is Neville's 500 SEL AMG. Arguably one of the most incredible Sonderklasse models ever made, the W126 S-Class looks menacing with its '80s AMG body kit and wheels. Painted in Burgundy - and wearing matching Penta wheels - this particular example once belonged to someone very important, as evidenced by the rear curtains, ridiculously oversized Motorola carphone, and paint-matched velour upholstery.
Another car worth mentioning is the Brabus tribute model, which wears the same body kit as the 3.6S Lightweight sedan based on the 190E.
This particular model still uses the standard 2.6-liter straight-six, but the vehicle holds a special place in its owner's heart. 'I've had it for 26 years," he recalls. There's also Brabus suspension which makes the baby Benz even better in the corners, along with period-correct monoblock wheels from the German tuner. Inside, you'll find a Brabus steering wheel, lightened Zebrano wood trim, and racier pedals.
In another barn, a C124 and E500 Limited take pride of place. The svelte coupe features a twin-turbocharged engine, but the latter piqued our interest. Built only in the final year of production, the Limited is the ultimate expression of the Porsche-built super sedan. It features unique touches like lowered suspension, Birdseye Maple wood trim, and 17-inch Evo alloys.
If you're into older Benzes, this video is well worth the watch. You might even spot a few American and British classics amongst the German beauties.
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