For Sale at Auction: 1969 Mercedes-Benz 300 in Amelia Island, Florida

Chassis No. 109.018.12.002140
Engine No. 100.987.12.005452

On 25 July 1971, AMG made its international debut at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. A bright red Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL, meticulously prepared by the founders of AMG, Aufrecht and Melcher, achieved an unexpected second-place overall finish and secured a class victory. Driven by Hans Heyer and Clemens Schickentanz, the substantial sedan surpassed lighter, factory-supported competitors and brought immediate international recognition to the emerging independent tuning company.

The origins were improbable: Mercedes built the 300 SEL 6.3 (1967-1972) as a luxury flagship weighing nearly two tons rather than a racing vehicle. AMG commenced with a damaged shell and extensively reengineered the chassis, body, and interior. The 6.3-liter M100 V8 engine was enlarged to a massive 6.8 liters and further improved by AMG with high performance camshafts, pistons, larger intake valves, lighter connecting rods, polished heads, and a modified intake with two throttle bodies. This increased output from an already powerful 250 horsepower to over 420 horsepower and over 450 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission replaced the standard automatic, and together with the displacement increase, boosted the top speed to 165 mph.

Its distinctive appearance and unexpected performance quickly attracted widespread attention. The car earned a porcine nickname that continues to resonate with enthusiasts today, later dubbed the "Rote Sau" (Red Pig). Although its racing tenure was brief, the Red Pig established AMG's reputation and remains a significant milestone in the company's development.

In response to growing interest in AMG models, this bespoke recreation was developed. Like AMG in the 1960s, the build began with a standard road-going 6.3, the specialists at Arthur Bechtel Classic Motors in B�blingen, Germany, transformed it to mirror the striking appearance of the original AMG with its wide flared fenders, vibrant livery, and imposing array of front lights. Beyond visual enhancements, the performance was enhanced with a modern six-speed manual transmission. Safety features include Sparco four-point harnesses and a bolt-in roll cage. Despite its impressive performance capabilities, like the original, it retains such elements as square-weave carpeting, power windows, air conditioning, and wood dashboard trim, complemented by a smaller-diameter leather-wrapped Interspeed steering wheel.

This Red Pig stands as the perfect showcase for the origins of AMG. The design philosophy of this model can be traced through to every modern AMG design, combining phenomenal performance capabilities with luxurious amenities expected in a Mercedes-Benz. Whether for ultimate performance or instantly recognizable style, this 300 SEL 6.3 AMG "Rote Sau" undoubtedly perfectly encapsulates AMG's heritage.