00:00In 1967, they came up with what we would call today an entry-level model, the 300 SEL 6.8.
00:07It didn't have the same level of performance as the full-on race cars, but it was still much faster
00:12than a standard production model.
00:14To achieve this, Motorsport installed the 3.0-liter engine from the 300 SL into the chassis of an everyday
00:22Mercedes 250 S sedan.
00:23But that wasn't enough to set it apart from other tuned Mercedes models, so Motorsport added a number of unique
00:30features, including a redesigned intake manifold, a modified cylinder head, and a custom exhaust system.
00:37These changes resulted in a modest bump in power, bringing the total output to a respectable 250 horsepower.
00:43For comparison, the stock version only made around 170 horsepower, but as impressive as it was, the 300 SEL 6
00:53.8 was still too expensive for the average car enthusiast.
00:57A brand new one cost a staggering 100,000 German marks, or roughly 50,000 US dollars today.
01:03So in 1970, Motorsport released another model, this time based on the Mercedes 280 SE 3.5.
01:11Like the previous model, it featured an upgraded engine, a sportier suspension, and a more aggressive exterior.
01:18But unlike the 300 SEL 6.8, the 280 SE 3.5 actually became a better-selling product than the
01:26stock model.
01:27This was great news for Motorsport, but it also caught the attention of Mercedes, who weren't too happy about this
01:34small tuning shop in Affalterbach outselling them with their own products.
01:37For years, Mercedes had a strict policy against any form of tuning, whether it was engine tuning or cosmetic upgrades.
01:45They wanted to maintain control over the image of their brand, and didn't want any third parties involved.
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