The Mille Miglia is a race held in high esteem in the motoring fraternity, but it has become something of a rolling motor show of classics from the era of hammers and sheet metal. Mercedes’ glorious 300 SL is probably the most memorable car from this era, when it claimed the entire podium of the famed race nearly six decades ago.
As it should, Mercedes has duly launched a tribute — the Special Edition SL550 “SL Special Edition “Mille Miglia 417” — that aims to pay respect to the legendary drivers and cars of the era.
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Does it live up to its high expectations and lengthy name? I’ll say.
The “magnetite” black machine with red trim is as breathtaking as its predecessor, but perhaps not as stunning.
Nevertheless, it’s definitely high on power, as all Mercedes V8s are. And to finish off the “meaner is better” look, there are 19-inch wheels up front and 20-inch wheels at the rear.
The car (or special edition pack, rather) will be unveiled in its full trim at the Geneva Motor Show in March. But how much will this likely go for? Try around US$17000 for the add-on kit on top of what you’ll have to pay for the SL itself. It seems worth it though.
Nevertheless, we’re pretty happy that Mercedes drivers of yore are getting their due rewards.
