Das Rundschreiben - Mercedes

CONCOURS d' ELEGANCE
1989
ON THE WATERFRONT
ROZELLE HOSPITAL
SUNDAY 17th SEPTEMBER 1989
Das Rundschreiben
OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER
of the MERCEDES-BENZ CLUB (N.S.W)
The Origins of
Mercedes anO the star
;ortlieb D aimler and Karl Benz the
rea tors of the world's fi rst cars and
:::mnders of the Daimler-Benz A. G.,
1orked on their inventions from the
arl y 1880's without ever meeting. T o
nake their products well-known, each
irm searched for a trademark which
vould become synonymous with their
>wn policy of innovation and leadership
n auromoti,-e de>elopmenr.
T he guarantee for the origin and
1uality of the engines and vehicles was
irs t to he found in the names of the
nvenrors themselves - Benz and
) aimler. \\lllle, however, the products
>f the :\fannheim fi rm, Benz & Cie did
10t change in name - a laurel wreath
,-as choosen in 1909 ro encircle the name
'Benz" replacing the earlier gear wheel of
. 903 . •-\bout the rum of the century the
:ompletely new and unusual trade name
' f ":\fe rcedes" appeared on products of
he D aimler-:\fororen-Gesellschaft of
: ansrorr.
iVhere did this new name come from?
:\fercedes is a Spanish woman's
1am e and means " mercy" . Mercedes was
tlso the name of a pretty little girl who
x-as bo rn in \ -ienna in 1889, the
'avourite daug hter of the Austrian
~usi ne ssman and Consul-General, Emil
Jellinek who li>ed in Nice. Jellinek was
1 progressi>e man and very interested in
:he infant spo rt of motor racing.
E mil Jellinek entered a 23HP
D aimler racing car in the touring
competition of :\ice in 1899 under the
pseudonym o f " :\fercedes" and won 1st
prize. The next year it was decided on
he suggestion o f Jellinek and supported
bv \\-illiam :\[a>bacb D aimler's
mgenious designer, that a new veh icle
design would be adopted: larger
wheelbase, lower centre of gravity, and
greater engine output. Daimler agreed
there were four small stars at 6E
the w ord "Mercedes" undemea:::,. cr=r
name of the Daimle r factories i::.
Untertuerkheim and Berlin - :\ Ia:i~
as well. In 1921 it was announcee
the three-pointed star would be ac~
as the radiator emblem and ro-o =
later, in 1923, it was registered. ·
==
MER[[DEs
to this and to Jellinek's suggestion that
these vehicles be called "Mercedes"
after Jellinek's daughter.
The new car was such a success
that it was decided by Daimler that all
future cars would be named "Mercedes".
A successful name had been found, but
as yet there was no characteristic
trademark . Then G ottlieb Daimler's
two sons who were managing the firm
recalled that their father once on a
postcard to his wife had drawn a guiding
star over their house in Deutz. He had
suggested to their mother that this star
would one day appear to mark the
ascendance of his wo rk. So in June 1909
In 1924, the two interruci
well-known pioneering firms <X~
and Ben z concluded a workin~ ~a--­
ment with the aim of coordinarefr
and production, buying and se ~;-_: .1!£
well as publicity. D uring tbis pe:5aC..
both firms generally advertized ~
products together, but still w iti:J · trademarks.
In 1926, the two oldest
automobile firms merged ro foro:: ::3e
D aimler-Benz A.G . A new trade~
was created, embracing the main
emblems of the two firms: the threepointed star of Daimler Gesellscl:Ja.=-,
kn own the world over, encircled br
branches oflaurel joining the ro-o
"Mercedes" and Benz.
Mercedes-Benz is well know:::~ ­
over the world and its symbol the
"Three-Pointed Star" is held to ~
well Daimler's credo "The best ornothing."
,._0:::::
both a three-pointed and four- pointed
star were registered as trademarks. Both
forms were protected, but only the
three-pointed star was used, and was
placed on the radiator in embossed form.
The form of the star was intended to
symbolize the threefold nature of
transport motorization on land, sea and
in the air. Over the years it was
supplemented in various ways and
improvements were made to the shape.
In 1916 it was set in a circle in which
Das Rundschreiben
OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER
of the MERCEDES ~ BENZ CLUB (N.S.W)
~
August/Sept emb er 1989
<
Pag~
z
w
1z
0
u
1989 Committee Members
2
President's Page
3
Ed it or ial
4
Our Economy Run
6
From The Pr e ss
8
New Members
9
Social Sli ce
11
Re s tor ing Steering Whee ls
12
A Mercedes Without A Past
14
CONCOURS d'ELEGANCE -
16
1989
Club Car Reg ister
45
Libr ary News
47
Uph o ls tery Re colouring
49
Memb ers hip Application For m
51
MERCEDES-BENZ CLUB (N.S.W.)
P.O . BOX 521
STRAWBERRY HILLS NSW 2012
CLUB PATRON: MR. CON BEARD
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brian Hopkins
Vice President . . ................ . ... . .
Treasurer . ..... .. .. . ...... .... ........ Geoffrey Giles
Secretary............. . ....... ... .... Barry Bow
H:
949 3921
H:
H:
451 8715
634 6670
8777090
B:
COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Regional Vice President. . . .. . . ..... . . . Brenda Fairlie
Membership Secretary. . ... .. ..... . .. . Wendy Gronau
Social/Event Secretaries ... . .. . ...... . Kim Hopmeier
Terry Waugh
Magazine Editors . . .. . ..... ... . . .... . Greg Kegreiss
... . .. . .. .. ..... . ... .
Librarian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Club Sales.. . . ....... .. ... . ... . . . .. . .
Auditor.. .. ... .. .... . . .... . .. .. .....
Bob Keane
Neil De Cean
Naida De Cean
Tamara De Cean
H: (043) 23 1225
H:
8582921
H:
639 6229
H:
6291181
H:
630 5701
FAX: 647 8934
H:
958 2368
H:
498 6412
H:
498 6412
H:
498 6412
MEMBERS ARE REQUESTED TO REFRAIN FR OM PHON ING M EM BERS OF THE
COMMITTEE AFTER 9PM A T N IGHT- THANKY OU.
"DAS RUNDSCHREIBEN" is registered for posting as a publication Category 8
Registration number NBH 2896.
NOTE: Opinions and views of correspondents to this magazine, unless otherwise stated,
are not necessarily those held by the committee of the Mercedes-Benz Club of NSW,
and are published for information purposes only, nor does the Club endorse
advertisements placed in the magazine.
Club meetings are held at the North Sydney Leagues Club on the first Wednesday of
each month, at 8.00 pm.
Next Meeting:
2
6 September, 1989.
resident's Page
;:eetings, fellow members,
'in ter is upon us and whilst we have a good attendance at the Bears' Den at the
Sydney Leagues Club, we do not always have a big attendance on our week-end
t .
A p ity really, and costly, because our Social and Events Secretaries, Terry and Kim,
ed a good Economy Run attended by only a dozen cars.
As you will see in this magazine, the results were surprising- especially for some of
- :e larger cars.
I guess many members are preparing their cars for the Concours in September. Our
Coacourse Committee is planning to make this a great day for all members. Bring your
?Tide and joy' (the one on wheels with the three pointed star) together with the
family and enjoy the fresh air at the usual venue for the Concours at Rozelle.
We want you to display your cars - whether you are entering one of the various
;Ja.SSes or not.
It's great to be able to report the arrival of the first grandchild in the Shipton clan.
Congratulations Lorna and Jim on the arrival of your new grandson, Cody Alan. We
·ope that both parents and baby are well.
After reading the latest issue of "In Aller Welt", I know that most of our members
- ill now have a new goal - to own a Mercedes-Benz S.L. Truly a dream car. Who will
be the first member to own one?
Brian Hopkins
Hon. President
Kate Connolly
Consult1ng Agent
• Lde • Oisabi!1ty • Superannuat1on • Insurance Bonds
Represen t ing
~~,
Jfl~
Ncmond Mu!·nl
Su1te 2. 2nd Floor . 4/8 Wood,dle Street . H u rstvli le 2220
Telephone 570 9722 Pmate 558 8835
3
From the Editor . . ..
Welcome to the 1989 Concours d' Elegance edition of Das Rundschreiben. I am sure
that many members have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of this edition so that
they can read up on the finer details of our premier club event.
As well as all the Concours details Bob and I have included a number of other
articles that we hope will provide you with enough reading to fill in any spare time
left over from your Concours preparations.
To help you get the winning edge, Martin Connolly has kindly written a most
interesting article on upholstery re-colouring.
In response to numerous favourable comments received from members, we have
included (with the kind permission of the Mercedes-Benz Cub - Victoria) another
technical article written by the late Ron Lilly.
Also for the benefit of our country members who are often unable to attend our Club
meetings, we have included a catalogue of Mercedes manuals available through
Mercedes Benz North America, as well as a blank order form.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone for their timely magazine contributions
which made editing this edition a lot easier. Also, a special "thank you" to Cathy
Parkinson for the sterling job she has done in typing and presenting this magazine.
See you all at the Concours!
Greg Kegreiss
Jens Bagoien
QUALIFIED PIANO TECHNICIAN (Conservatorium Tuner)
Member P.T. & T. Guild (N.S.W.)
TUNING & RESTORATIONS
Pianos Bought & Sold
28 WESSON ROAD, WEST PENNANT HILLS 2120
TELEPHONE : 4841406
Inspections by appointment
4
ONE DESIGN STANDS
For MERCEDES-BENZ- TRIUMPH -ALFA
7. HARDTOP STAND
1-A
THE CONTOUR OF YOUR ROOF
FITS SNUGLY INTO THE PADDED
SUPPORTS OF THIS STAND.
• COMPLETELY SAFE
• ON CASTORS FOR
EASY MOVEMENT
• DURABLE ANODISED
ALUMINIUM CONSTRUCTION
COLORS AVAILABLE:
1-A CHROME FINISH
7-8 MATT BLACK FINISH
1-B
2. THE CUSTOM TAILORED COTTON COVER
PROTECTS YOUR HARDTOP IN STORAGE,
BUT ALLOWS AIR TO CIRCULATE.
WE ACCEPT
BANKCARD
VISA.
3. HARDTOP HOIST
KIT INCLUDES SECURITY LIFTING SLINGS -.~·
WINCH
ALL INSTALLATION HARDWARE AND INSTRUCTIONS.
2 COVER
$ 75
(18 . 00)
(18 . 00)
( 5 . 00)
3 HOIST -
$155
8.00)
1 SI'AND 1A
$210
lB $200
SHIPPIN::; CHARGES IN BRACKETS
5
ONE DESIGN STANDS
1 DALMENY ROAD,
NORTHBRIDGE,
NSW, 2063 AUSTRALIA
PHONE. (02) 95fl1742
Our Economy Run on July 16
The day was bleak and cold as the wind drove the spitting rain across the driveway
of the only service station in Eastern Creek. Out of the mist emerged ten hardy souls to
start the economy run.
Amongst grumbles and complaints the starters filled their tanks and the procession
headed west towards the Lapstone to Merges Lookout which overlooks Emu Plains.
By this time the sun was beginning to appear through the haze and it seemed like an
excellent time to warm up with a "hot coffee".
Everyone made it to the lunch stop at the Cascades at Leura. Out carne the sun and
the picnic hampers.
After lunch the group headed off around the sites of Katoornba, along Cliff Drive
and on to Mt. Victoria.
The run horne was included to tempt those with a heavy right foot to blow their
chances along the sweeping curves of the Bells line of road back to Windsor where the
final reckoning took place.
We only lost one car along the way, or was he just driving very slowly???
Terry Waugh
·~~=====================================-.,'I
RE-DASH AUSTRALIA
MERCEDES BENZ MODELS
AVAILABLE
280 S 280 SE 380 SEL 350 SE
350 SEL 450 SE 450 SEL
$200.00
(l'hu Solet TD)
"Be-Dash YourCrackedDash"
PHONE (069) 29 1260
Sydney (02) 938-3502
6
i
l
Mercedes Benz Club of
~S~
Entrant
Economy Run
Sunday
16 July, 1989
Model
Weight
Distance (Km)
350SL
450SL
450SEL
350SEL
280SE
300SEL 3. 5
300SEL 3 . 5
220 Compact
250 Compact
1650
1630
1765
1700
1610
1680
1680
1335
1395
181
19 7
181.2
182
180
186.7
185.9
186.7
191
300D
1500
181
Petrol Division
Greg & Karen Yates
Don & Beryl Curt i s
Sargent Family
Warren Shillabeer
Brian Hopkins
David ~illiamson
Norm & Elaine Metz
Brenda & Bruce Fairlie
Robert & Laurie Mair
Diesel Division
Naida & Neil DeCean
Entrant
MPG/Ton
-------- ------------ ---------
ue 1 ( L) L i tres/lOOKm
Miles/Gal
--------
18.95
20.72
21
21.29
21.23
23.21
23. 72
20.17
22.68
10.47
10.52
11.6
11.7
11.7 9
12.48
12.82
10 . 84
11.87
2 7. 17
26.99
24.47
24.35
24.07
22.82
22.24
26.34
23.97
44.91
44.09
43.29
41.49
38.83
38.42
37.44
35.24
33.51
13.78
7.613
37.48
56.34
f
Petrol Division
Greg & Karen Yates
Don & Beryl Curtis
Sargent Family
Warren Shillabeer
Brian Hopkins
David ~illiamson
Norm & Elaine Metz
Brenda & Bruce Fairlie
Robert & Laurie Mair
Diesel Division
Naida & Neil DeCean
ADVERTISING RATES . . .
Class i fied Ads are free to members
Non-members are charged $4.00
Business or Trade Advertisements are charged at
the rates of:
FULL PAGE
$200 6 Copies
HALF PAGE $100
QUARTER PAGE
7
$50
New wagon from
Mercedes Benz
WAGON buyers at the top end of
the market will be well served by
Mercedes Benz new 300 TE model,
the wagon version of the very
popular 300 E Sedan.
A large wide opening tailgate and
flat floor, level with the bottom of the
tailsate, allows maximum utilisation of
avmlable space and effortless loading
and unloading.
A third retractable row of seats is
available as an optional extra,so seating for seven people is possible.
The new T series models are fitted
with self-levelling rear suspension as
standard equipment.
A 3 litre 6 cylinder engine producing
135 kW at 5700 rpm and 4 speed
automatic gear box provide adequate
power while multi link rear suspension
~i.ves excellent ride and handling qual- ·
1t1es.
A well laid out interior has all
controls in easy reach of the dTiver and
clear functional instrumentation.
Major attention to safety features
include automatic seat belt tensioners,
improved resistance of the passenger
compartment to impact, stronger door
locks and the 300 TE is fitted with ABS
1'.nti-locking br:l.kes as standard equipment.
l. THE new Merc~s Benz 300 TE - the ultimate station wagon offers a
large wide opening tailgate and flat floor, level with the bottom of the
iailgate which allows maximum utilisation of available space and
effortless loading and unloading.
,
QCL- Brisbane Show Guide, July 27, 11189
8
New Members
The following new members were accepted into the Club at our August meeting,
KRAUS Michael
Longueville
450 Sel 1974
KRAUS Richard
Longueville
300 Sel 1971
PRATT Neville
Wahroonga
2801973
WHITEHEAD Richard
Punchbowl
220S 1958
We warmly welcome our new members to the club, and look forward to meeting you all
at our meetings and club outings.
Please make a special effort to attend our 1989 Concours d' Elegance.
Wendy Gronau
autohansa
PRESTIGE AUTO REFINISHERS
We only repair Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and BMW
motor vehzcles, and have been Enamel Baking in original
factory paint since 1982. Whatever bodywork requirements
you have for your Mercedes-Benz, we can help you.
GEOFF HARRISON
Autohansa Pty. .Ltd. 14 Tengah Crescent Mona Vale 2103.
997 5545 Licensed Repaire r No. 481
9
Member Mercedes-Benz Club since 1972 .
Battery Troubles?
CALL
~
For Prompt Service,
Free Delivery & Fitting
With The Correct Battery
TOP QUALITY AT THE
RIGHT PRICE
FULLY GUARANTEED
OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE
BARTOK TECHNICAL SERVICES PTY lTD
10
Social Slice
August brings a change of plans. Unfortunately, the trip to Joadja had to be cancelled
at the last minute because the property has been closed permanently. So, at short notice
we acted on several requests from club members to arrange for the club to go horse riding.
This was held at the Jackeroo Ranch at Kenthurst.
Also, in August is the much postponed Autokhana. As in past years, this will be
held at Ansell Park at Richmond. Details of how to get there are in this edition of the
Magazine. This is a fun day for those who like to test their manoeuvring skills against
the clock. For those new members who have never been to an autokhana, come along and
bring picnic and see what happens. You may find you can't resist having a go yourself.
September is the culmination of a lot of work by the members Mercedes-Benz Club of
N.S.W. It is the month for the annual Concours d'Elegance. The Concours kicks off with
a Cocktail party for the club members. This year this will be held at Marshall's
Motors in Granville on Wednesday, 13 September. The Concours takes place on Sunday,
17 September at Roselle Hospital. Come along and make this day a roaring success by
entering your car in the Concours or simply putting it on display.
On the weekend following the Concours there is planned to be another driver
training day. This time it will be on Sunday, 24 September, and will probably be with
the Lotus Car Club. These provide all members with an opportunity to improve their
road skill in a safe and controlled environment. Anyone interested in this please
contact Kim Hopmeier to discuss it further.
The presentation dinner will be held on Saturday, 21 October at Curzon Hall in
Marsfield. This atmospheric old building provides a delightful venue for our annual
formal dinner. The evening's agenda includes a sumptuous dinner, presentation of the
trophies to the winners from the Concours d'Elegance, and dancing. We need firm
numbers as early as possible, so let either Kim Hopmeier or Terry Waugh know how
many places your require.
11
Restoring Ste ering Wheels
The steering wheels on Mercedes-Benz tend to develop cracks with time due to
shrinkage of the plastic on the steel frame. The cracks can vary from hairline to a few
millimetres w ide.
However, steering wheels can be restored to as-new condition with very little
expense. First they must be thoroughly cleaned with hot soapy water then d ried with
methylated spirits and compressed air.
Apart from thorough drying, hairline cracks need no further treatment. The larger
cracks are best filled by w rapping the wheel with adhesive tape and filling with
epoxy resin through a hole in the upper side of the tape. To make the epoxy more
viscous (pourable) slight heating may be required.
After dressing off any residual epoxy with a 320 wet or dry paper, the wheels are
spray painted with a marine epoxy primer if white or a polyurethane enamel if black.
For white steering wheels the treatment is the Marine Epoxy Primer, (Dulux
Durapon) which is stark white and must be tinted to get that ivory colour of the
original wheels. Thus to the epoxy primer is added a very small quantity of Estapol B7
Mid wood Base before the hardener is added.
The beauty of the epoxy primer lies in its ability to flow out and completely bridge
the hairline cracks. A good wet coa t is applied w ithout thinning and a second coat
within an hour. The epoxy primer surface d ries fairly quickly and is not susceptible to
dust, however, if particles of dust are noted on the finished job, they may be readily
removed with a P1200 or ultrafine wet or dry paper finished off with Brasso applied
with a soft rag or cotton wool to remo ve the fine scratches.
For black steering wheels the process is the same except that a polyurethane enamel
is used (Dulux Durethane) and a single coat will generally surfice. In neither case is the
material thinned although it is necessary to get a litre of the appropriate thinners for
clean-up of your equipment.
Although both processes are durable, plastic steering wheels do continue to shrink
with time and one I did about two years ago has recently developed a small hairline
crack. Nevertheless, the process is well worth the effort and certainly beats having to
replace the wheel with a new one for those concerned with the appearance of their
cars.
12
Beautiful,
tailor-made
Bilstein sports
suspension kits
You can ensure your Mercedes-Benz of the
ultimate in road holding with a superb Bilstein
suspe nsion ki t. It incorporates the same
successful technology employed for many
years in motorsport - adapted to the
demands made by the most discerning
Mercedes-Benz dri ve r.
Make a wo rld of difference to your
Mercedes-Benz - see Heasman .
HE ASMAN
m
nor
SHOCK ABSORBERS
461 Princes Highway, Sydenham, N .S.W. 2044. Tel: 51 5930.
(Comer Princes H1g hway and Railway Road) .
13
A Mercedes Without a Past
Have a look at that! It is the sort of car that you see once and remember forever. At
least that's what Grant Cunningham hopes. He has been asked to track down this
remarkable cars' forty year history in Australia.
The car is a 460 Mercedes-Benz Roadster. It was made at the Mannheim factory in
1928. The 460 was given the chassis and engine number of #50138. Its custom made body
was coach built by Schneider-Kart (or Schneider-Hart) in Bernsbach. The Mannheim
factory and its records were destroyed by allied bombing in the world war, and the
coachbuilder disappeared into East Germany at the end of the war.
Powered by a powerful straight eight engine and given that the car has no interior
instrumentation, Grant thinks the car may have been a factory race car, a gift to a
member of the factory race team or perhaps a show car.
The car went to the United States in the late .1960's with an American cleric and was
in a shed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for many years. The car was sold after the
clerics' death and went to Illinios, and then to the president of the American Mercedes
Benz Car Club and then to Richard Lisman, who is Grant Cunningham's brother-in-law.
Richard Lisman is rebuilding the car and would very much like any information that
anyone may have concerning its history, owners or time in Australia between 1928-1968.
14
The car was fitted with an Australian COOLAHCORE radiator made by F. Muller
around World War II. The radiator is serialised L2-R0769 G but unfortunately Muller
has grown from radiators to heat exchange equipment and does not have files to cover
the sale.
Anyone who has seen this car or remembers this car or who might have any leads is
welcome to call Grant Cunningham on (066) 55-6474 or write to PO Box 127, Urunga
NSW 2455.
The rear light and front fender lights were replaced in the Illinios rebuild. However, the body is the same as it was in its time in Australia. The car was never fitted
with dashboard instruments which is why it is thought it may have been a race car.
MERCEDES-BENZ CLUB (NSW)
CONCOURS d'ELEGANCE
1989
On behalf of the Mercedes-Benz Club NSW your Committee, Brian Hopkins, Allan
Marshall, Barry Grindall, Charles Hazelwood, Neil Blenman and Martin Connolly,
invite you to enter or visit the 1989 Concours d'Elegance to be held at the Sports Oval of
the Rozelle Hospital, Balmain Road on the 17th September, 1989.
This special issue of Das Rundschreiben contains:
- How to get there information
- Entry Forms
- Conditions of Entry
- "What the judges look for"
- "The scoring system"
- "A list of Trophies"
- Description of the various types of Mercedes-Benz cars that may be on display
that day.
16
JEVENT 01F TJ[-KE YEAR
ROZELLE
MERCEDES-BENZ
CONCOURS
D'ELEGANCE
HOSPITAL OVAL
LOCATION MAP
SPOJ\TS OVJ.l.
Kl:~t:l'lt:S -1u.:u~
(')tiLt i'LLASt:
l:m'AAJK..£ TO nu: HOSPITAL IH wtt.ARY IIDAI>.
IF YC.:L' A.JU: IM DCX.rliT AS TO WHICH VE~?KO!.'E
CltlE ·Of nt!:
17
roLLC:1WI~G
CLLTB OfriO:RS;
MERCEDES-BENZ CLUB (N.S. W.)
Pre-Concours Coc/(jai{ Party
7.30 pm, Wednesday, 13.9.89
at tfie Showrooms of
Marshalls
PARRAMATTA
Cnr. Church & Meehan Sts.
For the finest selection of new and
used Mercedes-Benz
18
CONDITIONS OF ENTRY
1. The entrant must be financial member of a Mercedes Benz Club.
2.
The vehicle must be listed on the current Club Vehicle Register.
3.
An entry fee of $12.00 will apply to all entrants. Vehicles for display only are
always welcome.
4.
Entrants are expected to join class judging groups, to judge classes other than their
own and where possible classes of their choice.
5.
Cars entered by interstate members and/or dealers will be eligible for minor class
awards only. (i.e. not outright winner)
6.
The decision of the scrutineers and judges are final, and no discussion will be entered
into.
MERCEDES-BENZ
• Headliner; for Cabr1olets
• Convertrble tops for Cabrrolets and Sls
• Orrgrnal German materrals
• Constructed to factory specrfrcatrons
BIRGHAM
ENTERPRISES
7 WoUomb•
H.oau
t" tJun 13eac h.
N.S.W 2 107
PO. Box 17·,
Phone
(02)
918 3837
19
meeting, they will be engraved and represented at the Presentation Dinner at Curzon
Hall on 21st October, 1989.
WEATHER
Should unfavorable weather prevent the conduct of the Concours in the open at Rozelle
it will be held instead in the undercover car park of the Ryde-Eastwood Leagues Club
at 117 Ryedale Road, Eastwood. Contact one of the Committee Members - Details on
Map.
REFRESHMENTS
We have arranged for the Anglia Prefect Cortina Club to cater for our Concours. Tea,
coffee, hamburgers, etc. will be available at reasonable prices.
While Clove
Aulomolive &ervtces
Mo. rUn Connolly
5601000
'5'58 &'l3'i AJl
... offering a superior appearance
restoration and maintenance service for
discerning owners of fine automob iles
20
WINNERSOFTHEYORKSTARTROPHY
Outright Winners of the Annual Concours d'E!egance of the Mercedes-Benz Club NSW
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
Colin Patterson
WolfGrodd
Brian Marshall
Norman & Zolrna Mcintosh
Warren Shillabeer
Claus Gronau
Claus Gronau
Claus Gronau
James Shipton
Phil Chaplin
Terry Waugh
Bruce Fairlie
Victor Nadjarian
Faye & Joe Cierpiatka
Gunter Woyde
Gunter Woyde
1921 Benz
1959 220SE Coupe
1971 300SEL 6.3
1970250CE
1970 220 Compact
1960 300d Limousine
1960 300d Limousine
1960 300d Limousine
1968 280SE Sedan
1972 280SE Sedan
1961190SL Roadster
1957 300SL Roadster
1961 220SE Coupe
1983 300GD
19802400
1980 240D
CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS
The winners of the Mercedes-Benz (N.S.W.) Champion of Champions Trophy:
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
Claus Gronau
Claus Gronau
Claus Gronau
Victor Nadyarian
Gunter Woyde
1960 300d Limousine
1960 300d Limousine
1960 300d Limousine
1961 220SE Coupe
1980 2400
(Due to lack of space on Claus' mantlepiece, this has been suspended at this stage!)
TROPHIES
Yet again we extend our thanks to Mercedes Benz (NSW) for providing the trophies for
the class winners and to Valvoline (Aust) Pty Ltd for the "Best Presented Engine Bay"
Trophy.
Trophies will be presented to the winners on the day by our Club President, Mr Brian
Hopkins. (On provisional basis only.)
To prove that the judges are not subject to gentle persuasion NQ. trophies will be
engraved until after the event. So, if all the trophies could be returned at the next
21
ENTRY FORMS AND FEES
To enter your car in the Concours d'Elegance complete the enclosed Entry Form and hand
to one of the Concours committee or mail it to the Club address as follows:
Concours Committee
Mercedes-Benz Club N.S.W.
P.O. Box521
Strawberry Hills, NSW 201 2
Make sure that you enclose the Entry Fee of $12.00. These must reach the Committee on
or before Wednesday, 2nd September.
ARRIVAL
Please see the location map and the Concours layout in this issue. Cars to be entered in
the Concours must arrive at the Oval by 9.30am, while cars for display are welcome at
any time.
Only Mercedes-Benz vehicles will be permitted inside the Perimeter Fence with the
entrants arranged in a circular pattern with visitors am'. ?icnickers cars at the rear.
Class number signs will indica te your location in the display circle.
On arrival, entry details will be checked and your vehicle relocated to a suitable class.
SOUVENIR PLAQUE
All entrants will receive an inscribed Souvenir Plaque to remember the occasion.
22
.
THE SYSTEM OF JUDGING
To maintain the high standard the Club has set itself in the limited time
available, a number of judging teams are used. ALL cars entered in a class will be judged
by the one team, consisting of four people, this ensures fair and equitable results in the
determination of class awards.
To select the Outright Winner of the event, the class winners with the exception of
the class winners ineligible to contest the Outright award in accordance with the
Concours guidelines, will be rejudged by an independent judging team.
For judging, each vehicle is divided into four sections, each section being appraised
by a judge whose responsibility it is to examine this section only on all the vehicles.
The sections are: Exterior, Interior, Underside and Engine Compartment. To achieve
uniformity, judges work from guidelines in the form of printed judging sheets, listing in
all 92 points to be checked on each vehicle with provision to assess each point in
accordance with several gradings.
Teams are under the supervision of Scrutineers, selected for their ability and long
experience in this type of competition The Scrutineers direct and assist the teams,
solving any contentious issues and providing the tallykeepers with the results of the
judges findings.
Worthy of explanation is the system of scoring used in judging. In the past there
have been occasions when competitors who have spent countless hours in the
preparation of their cars and justly consider that the standard of preparation of their
cars is beyond reproach, have considered the points allocated by judges have been
demerits, or a criticism of the standard of presentation. This is not so. Judges award
points either side of what is considered a good Concourse d"Elegance standard and are
briefed to guard against the awarding of 100% score for any feature of a vehicle. If this
was not done it would prohibit the allocation of a higher score to a subsequent, and
possibly a more deserving vehicle. Judges are comparing the merits of a vehicle with
others in the same class rather than against the perfect vehicle- if such a thing exists.
The judging scores allocated are merely symbols in the simplest form which minimises
errors on the part of tallykeepers.
THE JUDGES DECISION IS FINAL AND NO ARGUMENT WILL BE ENTERED INTO.
23
JUDGES FOR THE CLASSES
The 17 sections will be judged by a panel of members with assistance from one or more
scrutineers. We are pleased to have and would like to thank the following members as
scrutineers for this year:
Barry Sargent
Allan Marshall
Martina Connolly
Brian Hopkins
The scrutineers will also guide and assist the judging panels and have absolute
discretionary power to make decisions on scoring based on commonsense and fair play.
No argument or debate will be entered into and their decisions are final.
After the judging panels have chosen minor class winners, these vehicles will be reexamined by the scrutineers for the Outright Winners and Valvoline Trophies.
THE WINNING EDGE
How many of you have wandered along a row of apparently similar cars and
wondered which one would be announced the best of its type? Or the Outright Winner?
What sets one car apart from its peers?
To answer these questions is not easy, for in order that a fair judgement is made, a
standard must be set.
THIS STANDARD, THEN IS EX-FACTORY ORIGINALITY
This being the standard, it must then be applied as fairly and equitably as possible to
all cars submitted for judgement, with due regard for any factors which may prevent a
car from being totally original. For example (at the risk of stating the obvious), All
Mercedes-Benz vehicles left the assembly line PERFECTLY CLEAN. So the originality
starts with this most basic of requirements, which applies to every part of the car (undersides included) dirt was never original equipment.
Cleanliness aside, some other considerations may apply - vehicles in business use
may require such things as telephones. Even "safety" items need not cause any more
difficulty than necessary - e.g. non-original first aid kits (pre-W116, W123 and later)
can simply be taken out and kept with your other gear for the day. Likewise nonoriginal fire extinguishers. In the vast majority of cases, these can be removed, with
their brackets, in a couple of minutes. With a little thought and attention to detail,
alarms can be rendered almost invisible - wiring run neatly, "black boxes" mounted
under the dash out of sight and activating buttons or flashing lights discreetly
mounted.
24
•
Mudflaps, stoneguards, perspex wind defl ectors, chrome wheel arch moulds,
towbars, non-original alloy wheels, sheepskin seat covers and the like fall into the
"tie breaker" category.
In other words, if your car doesn't have them and someone else in your class does, you
score the points -they don't.
Enough said?
BRYAN R. METZ
MASTER PLUMBER
GASFITTER AND DRAINER
SPECIALIST IN REPAIRS AND AlTERATIONS
TELEPHONE: 818 3837
P.O. BOX 127
7 WOLLOMBI ROAD
A VAL ON BEACH 2107
AVALON
Smoothing out the peaks . . ...
14 Leswell Stree t, Woollahra, NSW 2025
Tel: 387-7784 • Fax: 387-7784
What do you get when you cross a laser printer with a Macin tosh PC?
Most of the typesetting for this month's "Das Rundschreiben".
Also . . ..
Resumes
High Class Reports
Mailing Lists
Desktop Publishing
or, the humble 1-page letter. Communicate by fax or phone.
For further details, please phone Cathy on 387-7784
25
JUDGING SHEETS
The following is an example of a judging sheet. It will be followed by a complete list of
the 92 points to be judged.
EXAMPLE:
ENIRANT_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ CLASS:...___ _ _ MODEL~---JUDGES PLEASE READ:
It is most important that the above be filled in completely. Judges should guard against
awarding a score of 20 no matter how good as this may penalise a subsequent and more
deserving vehicle.
I
•
The word in awarding scores is consistency.
a. Engine Block
b. Engine Head
c. Valve Cover
Engine Compartment:
1 2 3 4 5 10 15 20
- - - - - -
-
-
- -
-
And so on. This is then tallied. (The better the vehicle, the higher the score. That is
to say, a score of zero is "bad" a score of 20 is a "perfect".
INTERIOR
EXTERIOR
a.
b.
c.
Paintwork:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Chromework/ a.
Bright work: b.
c.
d.
Glazing:
a.
b.
Lamp/Lens/ a.
Surrounds/
b.
Etc.
c.
d.
Panels:
Dash (facia)
Straightness
Fit
Rust
Surface or cracks
Scratches or cracks
State of Polish
Stone chips
Matching of colour
Surface finish
Rust
Security
Dents
Cleanliness
Scratches/chips
Lens Colour
Surface/scratches
Rim Condition
Reflector Condition
Instruments:
Door Trims:
Door Furniture:
Headlining/
bows
Seating
26
a. Surrounds condition
b. Crash panelling
c. Facia panelling
d. Glove box condition
e. Ash Tray condition
a. Condition of dials
b. Conditions of rims
a. Cleanliness
b. Tautness
c. Window seals
a. Operation
b. Cleanliness
c. Plating
a. Cleanliness
b. Tautness
a. Cleanliness
b. Tautness
c. General condition
1
~
Door Details: a. Security of catches
b. Condition of weather
strips/ seals (exterior)
Grille
a. Condition
Number Plates a. Condition
Unspecified Faults:
a.
b.
c.
Steering wheel: a.
b.
a.
Rear Mirror:
b.
Unspecified Faults:
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
a. Engine Block
b. Engine Head
c. Valve cover
d. Generator/ Alternator
e. Starter motor
f. Fan
g. Radiator
h. Air Cleaner
i. Fuel System
j. Firewall/bulkhead
k. Visible Bodywork
1. Underside of bonnet
m. Hoses, hose clamps
n. Wiring and looms
o. Battery
p. Oil/Water leaks
Unspecified Faults:
UNDERSIDE
Tyres:
Floor Mats:
Cleanliness
Fit
Condition (wear)
Cleanliness
Condition
Cleanliness
General Condition
a. Tread Depth under 2mm
b. Cleanliness outside
c. Cleanliness inside
d. General Condition
e. Matching of tyres
Wheels:
a. Cleanliness
b. General Condition
Wheel Trims: a. Cleanliness
b. General Condition
Wheel Arches: a. Front - cleanliness
b. Rear - cleanliness
c. General Condition
a. Cleanliness
Floor Pan:
b. General condition
Front
a. Cleanliness
Suspension:
b. Visible condition
a. Cleanliness
Rear Axle:
b. Visible Condition
Rear
a. Cleanliness
Suspension:
b. Visible Condition
Transmission: a. Cleanliness
b. Oil leaks
Boot:
a. Cleanliness
b. Condition of spare
c. Condition of tools
Unspecified Faults:
*Unspecified faults include items that are not necessarily found on all cars such as:
sunroof, soft/hardtop, air conditioning, radio, First Aid Kit, Fire Extinguisher and so
on.
* Your car should have such items as Log Books and Spare Keys on display.
* The seat runners should be clean and are examined with the condition of the seats.
* Start cleaning now- as you can see all aspects of your car will be examined including
the inside of Bumper Bars! We hope that this will give you a guide as to what will
be judged at the Concours this year.
27
VALVOLINE TURBO V CAN STAND
THE HEAT- OTHERS WON'T.
There's no better oil than Valvol ine Turbo V The only one
offering the protection of Chemaloy.®Valvoline Turbo V
is specially formulated to handle the temperature
and stress of turbo charged engines.
VALVDLINE·
Valvoline- the symbol of p rotection since 1866.
28
CONCOURS d'ELEGANCE 1989
ENTRY CLASSES
1.
"PRE-WAR TYPES" and Types 170, 220 Full Chassis models.
2.
"ROUNDIE MODELS" Types 180 190,219,220 Two and Four Door.
3.
"FINNIE MODELS" Types 190c, 200,220,230, 300 Four door models.
4.
"LIMOUSINE MODELS" Types 300 and 600 models.
5. "W108/109 SERIES" Types 250, 280, 300, 3.5, 6.3 S/SE/SEL sedans.
6.
"COUPES AND CABRIOLETS" Types 220, 250, 280, 300, 3.5 (Long wheel base)
Coupes and Cabriolets 1961 to 1971.
7.
"SPORTS MODELS" Types 190, 300,230, 250, 280 SL sports to 1971.
8.
"TWO AND FOUR DOOR COMPACTS" Types 200, 220, 230, 240, 250, 280
(W114/115 Series).
9.
"W116 SERIES" Types 280, 350, 450, 6.9 S/SE/SEL.
10. "W107 SERIES" Types 280,350,450,380,500 SL/SLC Sports Models.
11. "W123 SERIES" Types 230, 240, 250, 280, 300 Two and Four Door.
12. "NEW MODELS" Types 190E/D (W201), 230E, 300E (W124), 280, 380, 420, 500, 560
SE/SEL/SEC (W126) and all SL cars manufactured in or after September 1984.
13. "WAGONS" G Wagons, Station Wagons and Commercial Vehicles.
14. "TRADE CLASS" Entries from the Motor Industry.
15. "FIRST APPEARANCE" This class is reserved for members who joined the Club
since the 1988 Concours and whose cars are appearing for the first time in a N.S.W.
Club Concours d'Elegance.
16. "MODIFIED" All vehicles significantly modified from ex-factory condition,
including AMG conversions, etc.
17. "MOST LOVED- MOST USED" (or Road Class) For cars used on a daily basis
which are still worthy of admiration but will probably never be alternate class
winners.
18. Outright Winner.
19. Peoples Choice.
29
You are invited to attend
our Club
Presentation rJJinner
21.10.89
7.30pm
Dinner and Drinks (All incl.)
Dress Semi Formal
$45.00 per head
Cnr. Balac!ava & Agincourt Roads,
Marsfield (Just OfT Epping Rd.)
* Music *Dancing *Tons of Fun.....
Book Early
30
CLASS 1: PRE-WAR AND TYPES 170, 220 (FULL CHASSIS)
Sadly for enthusiasts, pre-war models are all too rare in Australia. It was not until
1950 that Mercedes-Benz were imported on a regular basis with backup service and
spare parts.
One of the first Mercedes-Benz models to be imported in numbers was the type 170V.
The 170 series was introduced in 1931 with a 6-cylinder, side-valve, 1.7litre engine. It
was in 1935 that the 170 designated the 170V was first introduced and proved so
popular that by 1942, 90,000 had been sold.
Miraculously, the production line for the 170V, which had lain idle since 1942, had
escaped the bombing of WW2 and in 1946 Daimler Benz were permitted to start
production of delivery vans, pick-up trucks and ambulances. Then, in 1949, Daimler
Benz were able to unveil their new post-war models, the 170S and 170D.
At the Frankfurt Motor Show of April 1951 the new model220 was presented. The
220 was actually a lengthened 170S body and chassis with a highly efficient new 6cylinder, 2195cc, overhead cam power unit. The main recognition feature of the 220 was
that the headlamps were flared into the front mudguards.
31
CLASS 2: TYPES 180,190,219,220 (ROUNDIE) TWO AND FOUR DOOR
In 1953 Mercedes-Benz cars took an important step in their development. This was
the introduction of the 180, the first Mercedes not to use a separate chassis, having a
unitary body I chassis immensely strong floor pan which proved to be so successful that
it was used in modified form in the design of a whole series of models including the 180,
190, 1905L, 220a, 2205/5E and 219.
Another first with the 180 was the fabricated box-section pressed steel subframe
which carried the engine, suspension and steering assemblies, isolated from the body
with the aid of rubber bushes.
The styling is very dignified, although viewed in the 1980's it may look dated.
However, compared to its contemporaries, it was extremely progressive and svelte. It is
not hard to see where it got its familiar name of the 'Roundie' model.
The Type 190 arrived in 1956 and was a better equipped model, with a larger engine,
a detuned version of the 1897cc overhead camshaft engine developed for the 1905L
roadster.
Of course, along with the petrol engined models, were the 180 and 190 diesels.
The first 6-cylinder models appeared in 1954. The model was known technically as
the 220a but never badged as such.
In 1956, the 2205 and the 219 were introduced. Many people these days consider the
2205 as the last of the hand crafted luxury saloon cars worthy of the time and money
spent on restoration.
32
CLASS 3: TYPES 190C, 200, 220b, 230, 300 (FINNIE) FOUR DOOR
The 2205b/SEb model was a luxury family saloon with an alloy head, 6-cylinder
engine, optional fuel injection, coil spring suspension, extensive safety features coupled
with 160-170 km/h performance and excellent fuel economy.
Released in 1959, the model now affectionately known as the "Finnie" made its
auspicious debut by winning the Monte Carlo Rally and taking second and third place
also with the 220SEb version. In fact, this series dominated the rallying and saloon car
racing during the early sixties, winning the 4660 km Argentinian Grand Premia, an all
out road race, on four consecutive occasions in what was probably the most gruelling
motoring event in the world at the time.
Nearer home the 220SEb won the 1961 Armstrong 500 mile saloon car race at Phillip
Island in Victoria. Drivers were Bob Jane and Harry Firth.
The 300 SE is the ultimate development of the series. It features a 3-litre light alloy
engine of 160 hp (DIN) giving a top speed of 200 km/h. Power steering, 4-wheel disc
brakes and air suspension were all standard equipment ant the interior trim was more
luxurious than the 190c/220Sb/230 versions.
Currently the "Finnies", in particular the 190c and the 220Sb/SEb models, represent
economical motoring, simple and uncomplicated to maintain, excellent economy, and
supreme comfort. Thus, there is little wonder that they are held in esteem by Club
members.
33
CLASS 4: TYPE 300 AND 600 LIMOUSINE MODELS
Mercedes-Benz have traditionally produced a large luxury car using advanced
engineering concepts. After World War 2, the 300 series marked their re-entry into the
prestige market in 1951. The 300 was the pet project of the brilliant and talented Dr.
Fritz Nallinger, and contained in this rather large vehicle are such features as electric
control of the rear suspension.
The 200a appeared in 1954 and, after six months of production, gave way to the 300b
which was mechanically similar, with detail improvements to the body and interior.
In September 1955, the 300c appeared with the option of a 3-speed automatic gear box.
The last of these regal models, the 300d, was released in 1957.
The 600 model - The Grosser Mercedes - was introduced in 1963, it restored the
tradition of sumptuous luxury and ultimate prestige in Mercedes-Benz. A remarkable
car, not only in terms of its electric and hydraulic gadgetry, but also in its performance.
Road testers of the day claimed that it handled like a sports car. A tester from 'Road
and Track' was able to get all four wheels off the ground at 110 mph (the factory quoted
a top speed of 124 mph), no mean feat for a car weighing 2.5 tonne.
This fine automobile incorporated all modern design elements. It was truly a
majestic car of the highest order and an honourable descendant to the distinctive Great
Mercedes of former years.
34
CLASS 5: TYPES 250, 280, 300 FOUR DOOR SEDANS (WlOS/109)
This class represents the continuous and subtle development of the luxury saloon cars.
Gone were the dated fins and wraparound glass front and rear. The waistline is lower,
giving the car a longer and more modern look. The basic design of the new model was
attractive, modern (if a bit sober), and durable in the sense of not being slavishly
trendy.
Clearly the engineering integrity and attention to craftsmanship still followed the
motto that had graced the wall of Gottlieb Daimler's workshop in Canstatt some 80
years before: "Das Beste oder nichts" - The best or nothing!
Introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1965, the first version of the series was
the carburettored 2505 and the fuel injected 2505E. The 3005E and the long wheel base
3005EL were added a year later.
In 1968 this model range was revised with advent of the 2.8 litre 6-cylinder engine.
Four new models replaced the existing range the 2805 and the 280SE sedans and the
2805E coupe and cabriolet. Even the top line 300SEL was fitted with this engine. In
1969 the range was further extended with the release of the 3.5 litre V8 engine in the
280SE 3.5 and the 300SEL 3.5.
The finest example of the series was the great Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3. At the
time of its release in 1968, this car was described as having better performance, road
handling ability, braking potential, suspension stability and manoeuvrability than
any other comparable car in the world. It was capable of the standing quarter mile in
14.25 seconds, and a top speed of 220 km/h. All this perfection in the guise of a family
saloon. The authoritative motoring magazine 'Road and Track' described the 300SEL
6.3 as "the greatest sedan car in the world".
35
CLASS 6: TYPES 220,250,280,300, (LONG WHEEL BASE)
COUPES AND CABRIOLETS.
Traditionally, part of Daimler-Benz range has catered for the luxury personal car
market. This range of Mercedes-Benz from past eras are now motoring legends.
The ancestry of the coupes on display at the Concours is traced back through the 220
and 300Sc coupes of 1955, back to the legendary 540Ks of the 1930s. The line progresses
forward to today's 560SEC, which expresses the very latest development in engineering
and aesthetics as its ancestors did at the time of their release.
The coupe is the most sought after by the contemporary enthusiast. It is seen as the
last hand finished, leather and wood personal car to come from Mercedes. The coupe's
design proved to be so successful that it was produced from 1961 to 1972 with the
mechanicals keeping pace with the Mercedes-Benz technical evolution.
With the coupes, a companion range of convertibles were also produced,
unfortunately these beautiful and much desired machines are rare. Our club is
privileged to have a number of fine examples of the coupe.
Total Production figures for this range were:
220SEb
16,902
330SE
3,127
250SE
6,213
280SE
5,132
280SE 3.5
4,502
36
CLASS 7: TYPE 190,300,230,250,280, SL SPORTS MODELS TO 1971
In the long history of Daimler and Benz, sports cars have always featured
prominently. Following WW2, the first of the sports cars to be offered to the public was
the 300SE, better known as the Gullwing because of its vertically opening doors. The
body of the Gullwing consisted of an ingenious space frame from welded steel tubing
covered by a body shell of extremely pleasing appearance.
The smaller 190SL, produced from 1955 to 1963, was based on the floor pan from the
180 saloon which was introduced in 1953. The 4-cylinder, overhead camshaft engine of
1897cc was a new design and subsequently used, in a detuned form, for the 190 saloon.
The production of the Gullwing ceased in 1957 after 1400 had been built at which
time it was superseded by the Roadster version.
The 230SL with its well known pagoda roof appeared in 1963. The 2306cc engine was
from the 220SE coupe suitably upgraded for better performance.
In 1966, the 250SE was presented with the MI29.111 engine, developed from the
250SE unit. Four-wheel disc brakes, power assisted were standard. The 250SL had a
short production run, only 1,196 of the model were made.
Then in 1969, the 280SL made its appearance with a new motor developing 170 hp
(DIN) and the performance was considerably enhanced with a worthwhile torque
increase on the previous model.
The Mercedes-Benz sports cars of this era are currently highly sought after as the
rapid appreciation in values make them the best investment of any make or model.
37
CLASS 8: TYPES 200, 220, 230, 240, 280 COMPACTS
TWO & FOUR DOOR (W114/115)
The compact Mercedes-Benz range introduced in 1967 again retained the recognisable
Mercedes appearance - that 'no nonsense' look that somehow surpasses the soon dated
styling of most other manufacturers. Approximately 178mm shorter than the larger
2805/SE sedans, the compacts put the available space to best use and retain such virtues
as excellent headroom, good rear seating space and amply large boot.
The main emphasis of the model was safety rather than speed. The body was
designed for maximum crash resistance and the front and rear ends for easier crushing in
a collision to protect the passengers.
Engines in the various compacts range from the 4-cylinder overhead cam design of
the 1988cc to the proven 6-Cylinder overhead cam design of the 230.6 and 250, to the 2.8
litre twin-cam motor of the 280 and 280E. Interwoven in the petrol engined range are
the Diesels, the 2000, 2200.
Body changes were minimal during the production run, showing the self cleaning side
windows and fluted rear lamps of the S-Class were added.
The compact series included all the safety features, deformable steering wheel,
collapsible steering column, knobs and switches covered in soft padding, a crash pad
design to collapse on impact, and thickly padded sun visors.
Included in the compact range were the delightful250C/CE and the 280C/CE coupes.
38
CLASS 9: TYPE 280,350,450 6.9 S-CLASS (Wl16)
Introduced at the Paris Automobile Salon in 1972, the W116 chassis was the basis for
the new range of upper-echelon models. The first were the carbureted 2805 and the
fuel-injected 280SE, both powered by the then recently introduced MllO twincam six,
and the injected 350SE with the M116 V8.
The S-Class were moderately larger than their predecessors; a bit over 50mm longer
and lower, fractionally wider; wheelbases were longer by some lOOmm. They were also
more heavily padded inside, particularly the roof pillars, side window sills and
headlining, but there was a little more passenger space.
Naturally, the interior of the new models had been designed with an eye on 'passive
safety' - protecting occupants when a crash was unavoidable - but these cars also
demonstrated the importance of level of handling, roadholding and braking
performance, all in a package that was the very definition of class. The structure was
the latest development of Daimler-Benz patented 'rigid passenger cell/ deformable
extremity' construction. Inside the dashboard was mainly a huge energy-absorbing pad
the steering wheel was also amply padded and the newly styled round instruments
were recessed and shrouded by a deep hood to minimise stray reflections.
The 450SE/SELs which had loads of performance, were built with jeweller's
precision, and as safe as modern production cars could be. On the road these big sedans
acted more like small, sporty coupes - agile but composed. Road and Track magazine
said "The Mercedes 450SE is the best sedan in the world." Nearer home the S-Class
won the Wheels Magazine "Car of the Year" award.
39
CLASS 10: TYPES 280,350,450,380,500 SL/SLC
SPORTS MODELS (Wl07)
Since Daimler-Benz retired from racing, their SL and SLC models have tended to
become luxury grand touring cars, superbly fitted out, they contrast sharply with the
traditional sports car with their stark seating and interior, harsh ride and exhaust
note. The M-B sporting models come into their own on long trips with superlative
comfort, impeccable road manners and utter refinement.
An important step was taken in 1970 with the introduction of the 350SL fitted with a
3.5 litre V8 engine. This was followed in 1971 by the 350SLC and the 450SL, the latter
with a 4.5 litre VS engine.
Then, in 1972, Daimler-Benz presented the 450SLC. This model continued the
tradition of the luxuriously appointed limited production models. This was followed in
1974 by the 280SL/SLC, and later still by the 450SL/SLC 5.0.
Daimler-Benz are unique in their ability to confuse us with their model designations,
for instance, the 380SL/SLC and the SOOSL were introduced in 1980- also on the W107
chassis, however, as these models are different in styling, for the purpose of this
competition they have been included in Class 12.
We believe that the earlier W107 chassis series will become highly sought after
collectables of the future because there are the numbers about the establish a strong
nostalgia among those who remember the model as an eminent marque, top-line status,
the allure of the sporting type body, and high reputation . It isn't often that you can buy
a readily available car already certified collectable - and that is recommendation
enough to start thinking about getting one before they pass into history.
40
CLASS 11: TYPES 230, 240, 250, 280 AND 300 (W123) 2 AND 4 DOORS
The compact range of cars underwent major changes in 1976 with the release of the
W123 series. This body style continued to follow the highly successful W114/W115
compacts. However, the newe~; model was slightly larger with greater passenger space
and comfort. The styling was a recognisably evolution of the older compact cars, but
with smarter lines with fewer sharp creases and corners. From the W116 series it
adopted the self-cleaning rubbed taillights and the lower, wider Mercedes grille.
Structurally, the new W123 was stronger and boasted considerable more interior
space. There was also a new front suspension with lower A-arms, upper lateral links
and anti-roll bar, and minor improvements to steering and brakes instituted along SClass lines.
The array of engines offered in the W123 series world-wide ranged from the 200 to
the 280E, however, the Australian versions consisted of the 2.3 litre 4-cylinder 230E
and the 2.8 litre twincam 6-cylinder 280E petrol engines, and the 2.4 litre 4-cylinder
240D and the 3.0 litre 5-cylinder 300D diesel engines.
This series of cars was notable, also, because it gave rise to the first factory
production station wagon version of the Mercedes-Benz. These vehicles are included in
Class 3.
41
CLASS 12: CURRENT MODEL 190 (W201), 230E, 300E (W124),
280 TO 560 (W126)
The past few years has seen a feast of new models emanating from Mercedes-Benz.
Probably the most intriguing was the 190E series of cars (W201). These cars are the
smallest in the present range of models available from Mercedes-Benz, but they don't
give anything away in comfort, performance and handling. These cars have a
completely new suspension and the styling is obviously the product of a wind tunnel.
The engines available are the newest 2.0 litre 4-cylinder and 2.6 litre petrol motor, and
the 2.5 litre 4-cylinder diesel motor.
The most recent release was the W124 series. These replace the W123 series medium
size market with a complete redesign from front to rear. The appealing looks, superb
comfort and ride and the dazzling performance of the 300E have caused quite a stir.
The engines available in the new range include the very latest 2.3 litre 4-cylinder 230E
and the 3.0 litre 6-cylinder 300E.
With the release of the W124 series cars came a replacement for the original Tseries shares a great deal of commonality with its sedan cousin, inheriting the
advances in styling, suspension and comfort. The models available also match the
sedan with the 230TE and 300Td.
The saloon class has not gone un-noticed either with a new range of engines for
unleaded fuel including the 300SE (sharing the motor with the 300E) and the increased
capacity 420SEL and 560SEL V8 luxury cars. Also, the latest offerings in the W107
series sporting cars have similarly been upgraded with the new V8 for the 560SL and
560SEC.
42
CLASE 13: G-WAGONS STATION WAGONS AND
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
The G-Wagon is the four wheel drive cross country vehicle, which comes in short and
long wheel base versions. The engines available in Australia are the 4-cylinder 2.3
litre 230GE and the 5-cylinder 3.0 litre 300GD. Unlike many light cross country
vehicles automatic transmission is available.
The big technical developments in the G-Wagon is the provision of 100%
differential locks on both axles, which can be selected on the move. for normal road
going purposes, only two wheel drive is required, the addition of a differential lock
means quite different terrain can be tackled without reverting to four wheel drive.
When the going gets really tough, however, a cross country ratio of 2.74:1 combined
with differential locks means that progress can be maintained as long as one wheel
remains in contact with firm ground.
At the 1977 Frankfurt Automobile Show Mercedes-Benz unveiled the prototype of
the T-Series, the very first factory Station Wagons (T denotes Transporter). Based on
the W123 sedan wheelbase it had fractional differences in the width, track and
height, with the same structure ahead of the B-pillar. The unique features of the
wagon were its reinforced floorpan, its roofline and tailgate, and a revised rear
suspension that made use of the automatic self-levelling via special shock absorbers
pressurised by an engine driven pump.
43
Whorethemanwho owns the store runs the store.
TYREPOWER MARKETING {N.S. W.) LTO., 19 Bridge Street, Pymble .. 44 7505
150 STORE BUYING POIYER GIVES YOU BIG DISCOUNTS ON ALL BRANDS
SYDNEY METROPOLITAN STORES
1\RT 1\RMON
PACIFIC TYRE SERVICE PTY. LTD., 341 Pnclflc Hwy., Arlarrnon ..•.. 436 3980
1\V/\LON
AVALON TYRES, 17 Old Bnrrenjooy llonrl. 1\volon ........ ........ ... ...... . QlO 3304
BI\NKSTOWrj
BARRY WILLIS TYRE SERVICE, 175 Cantor bury Road, Bank a town .• 700 3308
BROOKVIlLE
ABLE TYRES PTY. L TO., 12 Chard Rond, Brookvale ........ ...... ...... ... .. 93 0351
CAMDEN
C.C. TYRE SERVICE CJ\MDEN PTY. LTD.,
89 Elizabeth Street, Camden .... ................................. ........... .. (046) 66 700 1
C/\ntNGBAH
TREND TYRE SERVICE, 3 Mackay Street. Carlngbah .............. .... .... 524 6720
CROWS NEST
CROWS NEST lYRES PTY. LTD., 507 Pacific Hwy., Crowe Nest. .... 438 4 795
MERRYL/\NDS
T YRE GIANT, Cnr. Centenary & Morryland s Roada, Morrylond a.. ..... 637 9597
ROZELLF:
JOE'S TYRE SERVICE PTY. LTD ., 73 VIctoria Road, Rozello ........ .. . .810 2282
SEVEN HILLS
SEVEN HILLS TYRE SERVICE PTY. L TO.,
Cnr. Best Road & First Avenue, Sevon Hllls ... ....... ....... .. .... ... .......... 671 3334
SMI II IriELD
EPSCO PTY. L TO., 81 Long St., Srn! thflold ....... . ............. ... .. ...... .. ... 604 7000
TYAEPOV/ER THE
KEllY -SPRINGFIELD
SPECI~LISTS
Tlla n ky o u Bob l! a mi l ton f o r
44
your advertising supprJrt.
Club Car Register
For the information of all members. I would like to update our membership listing to
include the car model owned by our members.
The cars would be grouped in their various classes and a volunteer will liaise and coordinate the members of that class.
New members can contact myself and be referred to the class volunteer co-ordinator
who will be able to assist with technical information or help required.
Workshop manuals are available through Mr. Neil de Cean, club Librarian,
(telephone 498 6412) and at club meetings.
As at 3/8/89 Class co-ordinator:
111
Fred Miller
107
Joan Schnieder
108
Charles Hazlewood
Allan Marshall
300
Any more volunteers please!!!
It would be appreciated if members would help by updating any car model changes
during the year and spare parts that members might have available.
My objective is to set up a technical group of interested people that will help new
members maintain their cars. I feel that more people will be encouraged to join the club
and maintain the marque.
This can only work with your help, it is your club. Thanks go to Fred, Joan and Allan
for volunteering to help start the Meres rolling again.
Good "Mercing",
Charles Hazlewood
Voluntary Technical Officer
Fax No. 417 7248 Tel: 451 7676
45
TO ALL CLUB MEMBERS & MERCEDES -BENZ ENTHUSIASTS
ON AGAIN
EUROPE·.....visiT
StuHgart
IN
1g 9 o
AND SEE THE DAIMLER-BENZ MUSEUM AT STUTTGART,
OLDTIMER WORKSHOP AT FELLBACH, ENGINE PRODUCTION
AND CAR ASSEMBLY PLANT etc . , SINDELFINGEN.
DEPARTURE IS APRIL 29th
RETURNING ON JUNE 6th
AFTER VISITING STLITTGART, THE TOUR CONTINUES
THROUGH AUSTRIA, YUGOSLAVIA, GREECE, ITALY,
FRANCE, SWITZERLAND THEN BACK INTO GERMANY
TO ANO THER PLACE OF INTEREST, OBERAMME RGA U
AND THE PASSION PLAY WHICH IS HELD EVERY
10 YEARS , AND 199 0 I S THE YEAR ! ! ! !
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS ARE VISI TS TO POMPEII, CAPRI,
MONTE CARLO, AND A LIGHT & SOUND PERFORMANCE
AT THE ACROPOLIS IN ATHENS.
UNFORTUNATELY, ONLY 25 PEOPLE CAN COME ON
THIS EXCEPTIONAL TOUR, SO IF YOU ARE AT ALL
INTERESTED, ACT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!
FO R FURTHER DETAILS, 'PHONE
JEANETTE (02) 918-3837
or SUE
(02) 281-3737
ALL TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS WILL BE THROUGH
NORDIC TRAVEL
629 Military Road
Mosman
2088
968 1783
968 1924
Tel:
Fax:
46
Library News
Those attending recent monthly meetings will know that, courtesy of one of our new
members, Karl Hoffmann, we have acquired a listing of workshop and owner manuals
published by Mercedes Benz of North America. This has been reproduced as a pull-out
supplement in the centre of this issue of "Das Rundschreiben" . You can now order
manuals direct, using the order form also included. It is a pity that credit cards cannot
be used so remember to send your $US, including postage. The manuals may seem a little
expensive but having purchased three volumes for a 300D the writer has found it was a
worthwhile investment.
If you decide not to order your own manual, you will be pleased to know that the
Club has decided to expand the library by purchasing up to 10 new books, as many have
found the library a little limited. Please let your librarian know your needs by ringing
him on (02) 498-6412, advising the model and type of your car and area of special
interest i.e. engine, chassis, transmission, electrics, etc.
FOR THE BENEFIT OF NEW MEMBERS
Some of you may not be aware that the Club Library of Workshop Manuals "lives"
at the home of your Librarian in Lindfield. Because of handling problems we don't ·
have all books at all meetings. To borrow any volume just ring your Librarian (phone
no. in the front of every issue "Das Rundschreiben") and you can arrange to pick it up in ·
Lindfield or have it brought along to the next club meeting. If already out on loan you
can find out who is the current borrower. There is a list of our manuals in the April 88
issue of "Das Rundschreiben" and a complete list of all the library for the records in the
December 1988 issue.
According to our records the following books are out on Loan.
Alan Marshall
24L
Ray Roberts
2C
2G
Mike Lyne
21C
Robert Dyson
2H
Greg Kegreiss
24E
Geoff Giles
6A
Mike Lyne
24F
Henry Hart
SA
Peter Cowie
24H
Bruce Fairlie
Chris Ruff
24N
Trevor Duffy
14A
15 B
R. Dyson
24M
Allan Simpson
15C
Des Brien
V23B
Jens Bagoien
V23D Peter Reedman
19D
Karl Hoffmann
20L
I. McGuiness
We are not chasing anybody nor any book, but if you don't have the Library item
against your name please let us know on (02) 498-6412.
By the way, if you own some Workshop Manuals and would be prepared to lend to
another member please let our Librarian know about it so we can make up a centralised
list of what is available.
Neil De Cean
47
s
AUGUST 27TH
F
10 am
FIAT CAR CLUB
GROUNDS
RICHMOND
c~
Percival Street, turn right
just before Richmond
Aerodrome and grounds
are immediately on your
right.
c~
Come along and enjoy a
fun day!
c~
Picnic & BBQ facilities are
available.
48
Upholstery Re-colouring
Upholstery need recovering? Had a quote lately? $500 plus?
Take heart gentle readers, you can do it yourself for under half that price even if you
don't already have an airbrush. If you don't , the best one is the PAASCHE VL
available from "Spray Equipment", 112 Canterbury Road, Canterbury - 559-2079 for
$162 as a complete kit with hose, paint bottles and extra nozzles (use the biggest one).
You will also need a means of hooking up the airbrush line to your existing compressed
air setup. Next step is to locate the trim code for your car which can be done by
supplying engine number, chassis number and body colour to your nearest Authorised
Mercedes Benz Dealer who should be able to quote you a 3 digit number in return.
Armed with this, get yourself down to Sydney Automotive Paints (corner Sydenham
Road and Farr Street, Marrickville) and ask one of the friendly staff for one litre of
Sem Colour-Coat- one of these codes should correspond to yoursTRIM CODE
COLOUR NAME
SEM NO.
203
204
205
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
Tobacco
Bamboo
Parchment
Black
Blue
Dark Brown
Palamino
Beige
Dark Green
Wenna Red
Grey
4006
4007
4008
1501
4009
4010
4011
4012
4013
4014
4015
If yours is an unusual colour, then take a sample with you (preferably from
underneath the seat away from the sun). If you have to eye match to the sample,
chances are pretty good- there are about 500 colours.
Along with the colour, you'll also need either Leather Prep (#38328) or Plastic Prep
(#38354) and Sem Flex (#39718). Sem Colour Coat sticks equally well to leather or
vinyl so these instructions apply equally to both materials. Wear an approved
respirator (not a particle mask) when using any of these products, and solvent resistant
gloves. Be warned - this stuff will never catch on as aftershave.
Now for the nuts and bolts - the ones holding the seat - if the driver's seat has
height adjustment then raise the seat as high and far forward as it will go, then undo
the two back bolts. Now lower the seat as far as possible and push back as far as
possible and undo the two front ones. All the others should be straight forward enough.
With all the seats out, next step is to separate the front seats into their respective
halves- namely squab and cushion. You will only need to undo two bolts each side of
the squab in most cases. The mouldings covering these generally come off with a bit of
(gentle) persuasion.
49
While your at it remove any other corner pieces and back panels, and the parcel nets
can be drilled off (four rivets) to give yourself a straight run.
Scrub all the parts with mild soap and warm water (leather) and allow to dry
overnight. Next apply Leather Prep according to directions - two applications
changing rags frequently and DON'T BREATHE THE FUMES. This is the most
important step, so don't rush it- think of the money you're saving.
With the preparation done, you're ready for the Colour Coat. Shake the can
thoroughly, and decant about 200 mls in to a small container (glass or metal) so you can
fill your airbrush pot. Don't leave the Colour Coat out in the light, or store it in a jar
because it reacts to light (this actually helps it bond to the leather). Airbrush pot full?
Practice first on a piece of coverboard until you get the hang of it- "waste" a whole pot
on your practice piece- you'll get a much better job where it matters. Again don't rush.
Now you're ready to start on the seats themselves. Add Sem Flex according to
ins tructions at this point. Using thin coats, spray around the edges and down into the
pleats first. Do all parts in this manner and when finished start again at the first
piece - 2-3 coats should be enough. Starting again at the first piece, spray the broad
areas, overlapping at the edges - have you masked off any bits you don't want
coloured?
From here on its down hill - 2-3 coats on the broad sweeps - don't forget to open up
the Airbrush for these and vice versa for pleats and edges.
Allow all parts to cure for 48 hours (ideally) before reassembling, overnight if you
are in a tearing hurry.
So there you have it. It's not difficult if you're not in a hurry, have a bit of space
and a few basic tools to hand and you take the time to READ ALL THE
INSTRUCTIONS.
P.S. If after re-re-reading the instructions you still have a problem call me on (02) 5601000 and we'll sort it out.
Martin Connolly
so
MERCEDES-BENZ CLUB (N.S.W.)
APPLICATION FORM
I wish to apply for membership of the Mercedes-Benz Club (N.S.W.)
Joining Fee $15.000 Annual membership Subscription
Single $20 Double $25
The Mercedes-Benz Club (N.S.W.) was formed to provide a motoring-social point
to Mercedes-Benz owners.
Activities of the club range from rallies and economy runs, B.B.Q's, film evenings
& technical nights.
Our regular monthly meetings, and our club newsletter -Das Rundschreibenkeeps members informed and in touch with each other.
The Club maintains affiliation with Mercedes-Benz clubs throughout Australia and
the world. The Club has the official approval of Mercedes-Benz (Australia) Pty.
Ltd., and the Mercedes-Benz (NSW) Pty Ltd.
Name
Address
.............................................................................................Postcode .............................. .
Occupation ........................................................................................................................ .
Registration No. .............................................................................................................. .
Telephone Private ..............................................Business .............................................. .
Vehicle Model .... ... .. .......... ..... .. .... Year .... ......... ............... .... Colour ........................ .
Please make cheques payable to Mercedes-Benz Club (N.S.W.)
Post to Mercedes-Benz Oub (N.S.W.)
P.O. Box 521, Strawberry Hills 2012
Signature .............................................................
Date
I
I
The stamp of an authorized
Mercedes-Benz service department
has a great impact on the retained
value of your Mercedes-Benz.
Each stamp in your Maintenance
Book confirms your car has been
maintained according to the
rigid specifications laid down by
Mercedes-Benz.
In short, your investment is
protected in writing.
The reasons for this
can be found in eve!)'
Mercedes-Benz service
department.
Our technicians are
trained in advanced
automotive engineering. The
calibre of our technicians is also
reflected in the parts they use.
All genuine Mercedes-Benz. Many
parts are manufactured to tolerances
more exacting than those specified
by DIN standards, the internationally
recognised industl)' benchmark.
All Carl)' the fu;.fr!'ag:eight of
a MercedesBenz
guarantee.
So too does lh
weight of this small
rubber stamp.
The impression
it leaves in your
Maintenance Book
assures the value of
your Mercedes-Benz
will be maintained.
As you'll appreciate, anything less than the authorized
Mercedes-Benz maintenance
system would be a disservice to
your investment in
a Mercedes-Benz.
What Mercedes-Benz
has learned from
cheating the wind.
"8/itzen-Benz"
record car
/909
Streamlined
W/25 racer
1936
En~
lire
no other car