The new Bentley Flying Spur Speed cuts a perfect line between luxury barge and lithe sport sedan. Order up the appropriate specification, and the car looks authentically fantastic as either. For instance, take a sporting color like Neptune (neptune; metallic UNI; LK5W / 6502; Bentley), a sort of metallic take on French Blue, and add a healthy dose of brightwork delete and you have one highly sporting sedan indeed.
This new Flying Spur Speed that turned up on the brand’s Global Media Drive. Bentley has released photos of each car on location for the drive. This includes full build specifications.
Inside, the duo-tone cabin is a combination of Imperial Blue and Light Blue leather detailed with contrast stitching and finished with Open Pore Crown Cut Walnut fascias.
Worth noting, the car also has several options that we’ll list here along with U.S. pricing. These include ‘Naim for Bentley Premium Audio System ($9,615), Extended Range Solid and Metallic Paintwork ($8,665), Touring Specification ($7,890), Bentley Rotating Display ($6,955), Full Length Center Console with 4-Seat Configuration ($5,135), Illuminated Flying ‘B’ in Polished Stainless Steel ($4,895), Wellness Seating ($4,670), 22″ Ten Swept Spoke Wheels – Bright Machined ($4,400), Panoramic Glass and Sunroof with Twin Blinds ($3,645) and Open Pore Crown Cut Walnut Fascia ($2,370).
Touring Specification includes Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Night Vision and Head-up Display.
Wellness Seating includes Postural and Lumbar Adjustments, Cooled and Heated Seating and Massage Functions.
Rolls-Royce recently dropped basic color and specification from the Cullinan Series II and Black Badge Cullinan Series II global media drive held in Ibiza back in June. Alas, we weren’t on that drive, but we are able to share the basic color information in order to help inspire those ordering Rolls-Royces of their own, or considering Rolls-Royce hues in build specifications from other manufacturers.
We’ve been adding each car in our Color Check over the last few weeks. Next up is this Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II christened ‘Captain’. It’s finished in Monteverde (monteverde; pearl uni; R9D; Rolls-Royce).
Rolls-Royce PR has described Monteverde as “a colour inspired by the green and blue hues of nature’s undiscovered territories, enlivened by gleaming golden pearl.” No word on which territories remain undiscovered, though the reference is likely inspired by the cool green hues of Monteverde, Costa Rica while name literally means “Green Mountain” in Spanish.
Rolls-Royce didn’t detail the rest of the spec on this second ‘Captain’, but some of these photos feature the car coolly parked by a luxury yacht. In that, this Cullinan Series II definitely fits the part as the natural mode of transport you’d use to transfer to the marina.
Paris, France – Totem Automobili, an icon of bespoke automotive craftsmanship, proudly unveiled the No. 07/40 GT Super, known as “Hestia”, during JP Morgan’s exclusive 40×40 event held at Place Vendôme in Paris on November 4th and 5th. This premier gathering brought together visionaries and next-generation leaders for two days of innovation and inspiration.
“Hestia” is the seventh car in Totem Automobili’s special series, a masterpiece blending extraordinary performance with unparalleled luxury and design.
The car’s exterior is painted in a triple-layer metallic red, a striking shade that highlights its sleek, modern lines. The interior, designed for ultimate refinement, features extended black Nappa leather complemented by custom-made fabric inserts, crafted exclusively to match the bespoke layout. The vehicle also boasts extensive visible carbon fiber, showcasing an intricate diamond-pattern weave that shifts dynamically depending on the viewing angle, creating a captivating visual effect.
Under the hood, “Hestia” is powered by a 2.8-liter twin-turbo engine developed by Italtecnica exclusively for Totem Automobili. This powerhouse delivers up to 640 horsepower, ensuring a thrilling driving experience. The six-speed manual transmission with an open-gate shifter pays homage to traditional automotive craftsmanship while enhancing the connection between driver and machine.
The name “Hestia” reflects the personal vision of its U.S.-based owner, who chose the moniker to represent warmth, beauty, and tradition. The car’s finishing touch is a matte carbon fiber trim painted in a satin nickel tint, seamlessly integrating modern sophistication with timeless elegance.
About the 40×40 Event
JP Morgan’s 40×40 is a highly curated annual summit, designed to connect and inspire young leaders across diverse fields, including entrepreneurs, investors, artists, and athletes. By fostering meaningful conversations and relationships, the event reflects the passions and ambitions of the next generation.
The debut of the “Hestia” at this prestigious event underscores Totem Automobili’s alignment with visionary thinking and commitment to excellence, making it a fitting centerpiece at this gathering of remarkable individuals.
Event Images – 📸 @tobephoto | Tommaso Bertotti
About Totem Automobili
Totem Automobili is an Italian automotive company specializing in the production of luxury cars hand-crafted from carbon fiber. Our mission is to combine the most modern technologies with classic design, creating cars that offer an unforgettable driving experience. The GT Series is our first masterpiece, merging Italian craftsmanship with technological innovation.
INEOS Automotive presents first special project build: ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’
Custom build leverages partnerships with class-leading accessory suppliers
Demonstrates the infinite customisation possibilities available with the INEOS Grenadier and Quartermaster
Visually arresting all-black off-roader features Norweld tray and canopy, JMACX suspension enhancements, Brown Davis long range fuel tank, and REDARC battery and battery management systems
Kaiju Quartermaster will be seen at events cross Australia over the next few months
[source: INEOS Automotive]
Australia – INEOS Automotive’s Australian operation has built a one-off special Grenadier Quartermaster Cab Chassis: the ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’. The name, meaning a mythical ‘giant creature’ or ‘monster’ in Japanese, was chosen to convey the powerful capabilities of the Grenadier, and acknowledges Australia’s love affair with modified Japanese 4×4 vehicles.
The striking all-black Kaiju Quartermaster is based on the strong foundation of the Quartermaster Cab Chassis ute, which is engineered to deliver a class-leading combination of off-road capability and load-carrying versatility for work and adventure. The one-off ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ has been built in partnership with some of Australia’s most innovative and reputable third-party accessory suppliers, including Norweld, Rhino-Rack, Brown Davis, REDARC, JMACX, GME, BF Goodrich, MAXTRAX, and STEDI*.
With a fully blacked-out exterior and commanding presence, the Kaiju project has resulted in a unique off-roader that epitomises an iconic heavily modified Aussie 4×4 overlander, while showcasing the infinite customisation possibilities available to Grenadier and Quartermaster customers.
Justin Hocevar, Regional Director, APAC at INEOS Automotive commented: “We wantedto create a truly unique Quartermaster together with some incredibly innovative local engineering & accessory partners. The Quartermaster Cab Chassis is a ‘blank canvas’ that allows for great versatility when it comes to customisation, so together with these project partners, we let our imagination run wild.Ultimately, the ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ expresses our Australian vision of Built For More.”
Equipment on the special build includes premium fitment options such as the Norweld Elite Tray and Compact Deluxe Lite Canopy, engineered to handle extreme conditions while being lightweight and designed with a gutter system and rubber seals to ensure dust and water resistance on the most extreme overlanding adventures.
The ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ is also fitted with the Brown Davis long range fuel tank #IG23A2 – tucked neatly behind the rear bumper, giving explorers the ultimate option for remote travel with a total of 168 litres on top of the factory 90-litre tank.
To provide unparalleled performance and enhanced protection, REDARC’s range of RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverters, Alpha150 150A lithium battery and Manager Alpha50 have also been fitted, giving the ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ a complete battery management system for the most demanding recreational and off-grid energy needs.
Unusually, INEOS Automotive extends the vehicle’s warranty to cover select aftermarket components from official accessories partners when ordered through retailers. This provides customers with cast-iron peace-of-mind even when customizing their Grenadier or Quartermaster to suit their own particular needs.
The ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ will be seen utilised across events and for promotional purposes in Australia over the next few months.
To find out more about Grenadier range pricing, technical specifications and options, visit www.ineosgrenadier.com.
Landmark Bespoke commissions completed in 2024 reflect the record level of Bespoke demand
Commissions illustrate clients’ increasingly bold, diverse and personal inspirations
Each features unique details never previously seen in a Rolls-Royce motor car, including paint inspired by celestial phenomena and a Bespoke gold golf putter
Testament to the exceptional creativity, skill and unparalleled artistry of the Bespoke Collective
Highlights include all motor cars in the current Rolls-Royce product portfolio
[source: Rolls-Royce]
“Every Rolls-Royce motor car serves as a blank canvas for an owner’s Bespoke commission. This year, we have once again been delighted and challenged by the breadth of our clients’ imagination, creativity and ambition, which presented the perfect opportunity to showcase the ingenuity and vision of our Bespoke Collective. As these commission highlights demonstrate, inspiration can come from anywhere, and increasingly we see clients requesting even more personal touches in their motor car, creating expressive works in their own right and as part of a broader legacy. It is a testimony to the skills of our Bespoke teams, and our brand’s standing in the luxury world, that clients share with us their dreams, confident in our ability to realise them in line with their ambitious creative vision.” Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
In 2024, the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople brought to life some of the most creative and ambitious examples of artistry ever seen.
Client commissions comprised highly complex, hand-painted and embroidered artworks, stainless steel and gold inlays, exquisite iridescent paint finishes and much more. Driven by their pursuit of perfection and the dreams of the marque’s clients, Rolls-Royce artisans created singular graphics, such as a 869,500-stitch embroidery inspired by the Spirit of Ecstasy, and captured cultural symbols using the canvas of leather, wood and fabric. From finely executed coachline motifs to full-scale artworks within the interior, the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective once again stretched the breadth of luxury possibility.
The extraordinary complexity behind this year’s commissions reflects the ever-growing number of clients that trust the marque’s artisans with their boldest visions. While these inspirations are as diverse as the personalities of the clients themselves, clear themes have emerged over the year. Bespoke commissions are becoming increasingly personal, with many clients curating individual masterpieces to mark major life events and commemorate transformative moments, places and people that are meaningful to them.
As 2024 comes to an end, Rolls-Royce reflects on just some of the finest examples of Bespoke possibility. The motor cars selected are owned by clients who have generously given permission for their details to be shared with the public.
PHANTOM SCINTILLA Limited to just 10 examples worldwide, this magnificent Private Collection celebrates the ethereal beauty, grace and legacy of the Spirit of Ecstasy.
The interior is embroidered with 869,500 stitches forming a continuous graphic inspired by her expressive form. The figurine itself has a unique ceramic finish, evoking the Parian marble of The Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Greek statue that inspired Claude Johnson to commission the original mascot in 1910.
The centrepiece is the Celestial Pulse Gallery, capturing the fleeting presence of the Spirit of Ecstasy. This artwork comprises seven individually milled ribbons, cloaked in the same ceramic finish as the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Above, the Bespoke Starlight Headliner features an animation with 1,500 fibre-optic ‘stars’, inspired by the Spirit of Ecstasy’s flowing gown.
BLACK BADGE GHOST CITY LIGHTS In this commission, created exclusively for the UK, the Illuminated Fascia features a Bespoke design recreating a bird’s-eye panorama of London. The graphic is inspired by the thrilling view of the city seen from an aeroplane as it makes its final approach to landing at night. The pattern is composed of 8,372 laser-etched lights, each individually placed by hand in the Piano Black veneer surface.
CULLINAN SERIES II – INSPIRED BY ROSE This delicate, highly artistic commission was inspired by the Phantom Rose, specially bred for Rolls-Royce, which grows in the courtyard of the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood and nowhere else in the world.
Bespoke designers created a stylised rose motif, which was then translated into the delicate embroidery on the front and rear headrests and incorporated into the meticulously hand-painted Coachline.
PHANTOM GOLDFINGER To mark the 60th anniversary of the James Bond film Goldfinger, Rolls-Royce created this intricately detailed homage to the eponymous villain’s 1937 Phantom III Sedanca de Ville.
Bespoke specialists faithfully recreated the original motor car’s famous black and yellow exterior finish, with ingenious features referencing the film’s pivotal scenes – from a gold golf putter, inspired by one used by Auric Goldfinger in his infamous match with 007, to a solid 18-carat gold speedform displayed in the centre console.
Other gold-inspired features include gold-plated treadplates embossed with the same font developed for the film in 1964, a 24-carat gold-plated VIN plaque engraved with a number ending in 007, as well as organ stops, seat bullets and speaker frets with a lustrous gold finish.
The Gallery houses a stainless-steel artwork featuring an isoline map of the Furka Pass, where 007 is seen in the film following Goldfinger to his smelting plant. As another subtle reference, the Starlight Headliner reflects the constellations as they appeared over the Furka Pass in Switzerland on the final day of filming the scene. As a finishing touch, a hidden projector was developed to display the legendary ‘007’ logo when the boot is opened.
SPECTRE LUNAFLAIR Commissioned by a discerning client from the United States, Spectre Lunaflair draws inspiration from the optical phenomenon of a lunar halo, where moonlight refracted through high-altitude ice crystals creates a bright ring around the moon.
To capture this spectacle, the marque’s specialists spent a year developing a unique holographic paint finish, reserved exclusively for the commissioning client. The captivating ‘rainbow’ effect is achieved by applying seven layers of lacquer, including a pearlescent layer infused with fine flakes of magnesium fluoride and aluminium. This creates a deep metallic effect in low light that bursts into rainbow technicolour under bright sunshine.
The Spectre Lunaflair concept was partially inspired by another Bespoke masterpiece, the one-of-one Phantom Syntopia. Captivated by Phantom Syntopia’s iridescent Liquid Noir finish, the commissioning client asked the Bespoke Collective to create a light and luminous expression of this concept that reflected their fascination with the lunar halo phenomenon. This cross-pollination of ideas exemplifies the power of Bespoke at Rolls-Royce.
GHOST EXTENDED SERIES II – THE ENCOUNTER This exquisite Ghost Extended Series II is designed to mark the 120th anniversary of the meeting of its founders on 4 May 1904. The celebratory commission contains numerous references to The Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls and Henry Royce, including their initials embroidered on the headrests, their signatures on the C-pillar, and the historic date of their introduction as the coachline motif.
The interior is finished in Duality Twill, a new rayon fabric made from bamboo, embroidered with a ‘Duality’ graphic – an abstract interpretation of the interlinked R initials of the marque’s founders’ names.
PHANTOM YEAR OF THE DRAGON Commissioned via the Shanghai Private Office, this extraordinary Phantom Extended was created to mark the Lunar New Year, beginning on 10 February 2024. In a beautiful example of the growing trend towards blending international heritage and Chinese cultural traditions, known as guochao, the interior features meticulously crafted details inspired by a traditional dragon symbol.
These include a unique hand-painted artwork on the front passenger panel, dragon embroidery on the headrests, coachline motif and the first-ever depiction of a dragon in a Bespoke Starlight Headliner, crafted from 677 ‘stars’.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Cullinan Series II: WLTP (combined) CO2 emission: 380-363 g/km; Fuel consumption: 16.8-17.7 mpg / 16.8-16.0 l/100km.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Black Badge Ghost: WLTP (combined) CO2 emission: 359 g/km; Fuel consumption: 17.9 mpg / 15.8 l/100km.
Ghost Extended Series II: WLTP (combined) CO2 emission: 358-348 g/km; Fuel consumption: 17.9–18.5mpg / 15.8–15.3 l/100km.
Spectre: WLTP: Power consumption: 2.6-2.8 mi/kWh / 23.6-22.2 kWh/100km. Electric range 329 mi / 530 km. NEDC: CO2 emissions 0 g/km.
Phantom Series II: NEDC combined: CO2 emissions: 345 g/km; Fuel consumption: 18.7 mpg / 15.1 l/100km. WLTP combined: CO2 emissions: 351-362 g/km; Fuel consumption: 17.7-18.2 mpg / 15.5-16.0 l/100km.
Phantom Extended Series II: NEDC combined: CO2 emissions: 345 g/km; Fuel consumption: 18.7 mpg / 15.1 l/100km. WLTP combined: CO2 emissions: 353-365 g/km; Fuel consumption: 17.4-18.1 mpg / 15.6-16.2 l/100km.
About Rolls-Royce Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a true luxury house, creating the world’s most recognised, revered and desirable handcrafted Bespoke products for its international clientele.
There are over 2,500 people working at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, West Sussex. This comprises both its global headquarters and Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence – the only place in the world where Rolls-Royce motor cars are designed, engineered and meticulously built by hand. An independent study by the London School of Economics & Political Science confirms that since the company first launched at Goodwood in 2003, it has contributed more than £4 billion to the UK economy and adds more than £500 million in economic value every year.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a wholly owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and is a completely separate, unrelated company from Rolls-Royce plc, the manufacturer of aircraft engines and propulsion systems.
Vairano, December 4, 2024 – Totem Automobili proudly announces the completion of the 12th chassis in its limited production run of just 40 units. This one-of-a-kind GT Super is powered by the iconic 90° V6 twin-turbo engine, developed in collaboration with Italtecnica, delivering extraordinary performance.
Exclusive Paintwork and Advanced Materials
This chassis represents a true masterpiece of engineering and design. The bodywork is adorned with a bespoke metallic green finish, created exclusively for this unit. The carbon fiber elements feature a unique matrix, shifting from square to diamond patterns depending on the angle of light, complemented by an elegant matte finish.
Inside, bespoke carbon fiber racing-inspired seats were crafted to meet the client’s desire for a heightened, immersive driving experience. The vehicle’s bodywork, chassis, and internal supports—such as the central tunnel and dashboard—are constructed from structural carbon fiber. This advanced material, with variable density, is further reinforced with Kevlar in specific areas, showcasing the engineering complexity achieved with the support of our partner JM from Valfenera d’Asti.
The IVA Homologation Milestone
Currently, GT Super Chassis No. 12 is undergoing Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) testing at Vairano. This pivotal step will enable Totem vehicles to be legally driven across Europe and many other parts of the world.
Totem Automobili faces the challenges of an incredibly costly homologation process, designed for large manufacturers but rarely accessible to small independent carmakers. With costs often exceeding €10 million, we must ask: are these regulations genuinely focused on safety and environmental protection, or do they serve as financial barriers to safeguard the interests of major corporations?
A Call for a Fairer Future
We believe the time has come for Italy and Europe to create a regulatory framework that acknowledges the unique nature of small-scale manufacturers. Totem vehicles, produced with highly streamlined supply chains, have a minimal aggregate environmental impact and meet the most stringent safety requirements.
Totem Automobili remains committed to redefining quality, innovation, and sustainability in the automotive industry. With this 12th chassis, we celebrate our determination to overcome challenges with the passion and creativity that define the Made in Italy.
Totem Automobili is an Italian car manufacturer specializing in handcrafted luxury vehicles made from carbon fiber. Our mission is to blend cutting-edge technology with timeless design, creating cars that deliver an unforgettable driving experience. The GT Series is our first masterpiece, merging Italian craftsmanship with technological innovation.
What: 1990 Porsche 911 Color: Egg Yolk (non-metallic UNI; no code; Singer) VIN: WP0ZZZ96ZMS400589 Mileage: 4,650 Price at Time of this Writing: £845,000 GBP Asking CarFax: N/A Window Sticker: N/A Location: London, UK Listing:Link
Why we love it:
The cue for a Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer is measured in years, so for those seeking to own one and not hung up on creating their own commission, purchasing one off the pre-owned market is the most likely play. Granted, they don’t come up often, and when they do we tend to expect them in prestigious places like an RM Sotheby’s private listing.
That’s the case with the car you see here. Note the name of the commission, “UK 1”, which designates it as the first UK registered Singer. Are you surprised it’s right-hand drive? That should be obvious, but maybe adds to the cool.
Another cool note on this car is the history. Singer used this car for promotional activities, including display at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed where it was driven up the hill by Chris Harris and Marino Franchitti. Noted automotive journalist (and 964 Carrera RS owner) Dickie Meaden also drove the car for a feature in the December 2015 issue of Evo Magazine for which they also shot a video (see above).
Since this is an early Singer commission, it’s fitted with a Cosworth-built 3.8-liter version of Porsche’s flat six. It’s also finished in Egg Yolk paint over a relatively subtle black leather interior with comfort seats, Becker stereo with navigation and a roll bar.
Rolls-Royce recently dropped basic color and specification from the Cullinan Series II and Black Badge Cullinan Series II global media drive held in Ibiza back in June. Alas, we weren’t on that drive, but we are able to share the basic color information in order to help inspire those ordering Rollers or considering Rolls-Royce hues in build specifications from other manufacturers.
First up is this Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan Series II christened ‘Disruptor’. It’s finished in Morganite (morganite; non-metallic uni; R9F; Rolls-Royce). According to @rollsroycemonaco on Instagram, Morganite gets its name from the Morganite gem that is known for its soft pink color. “The coloration is of the stone is due to traces of manganese. Says @rollsroycemonaco, “This coloration is due to traces of manganese, which give it beautiful shades of pink, peach, and magnolia.”
Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy – The year 2024 comes to a close following important work by Lamborghini Polo Storico: it was a year full of activities and awards won in the most prestigious international concours d’elegance that further cemented its role as the point of reference for Lamborghini collectors globally. In 2025 Polo Storico will celebrate its tenth anniversary, a significant milestone that attests to this department’s continuous evolution.
“2024 has been a year both challenging and richly gratifying for our entire team,” said Alessandro Farmeschi, After Sales Director of Automobili Lamborghini. “Not only have we achieved excellent results commercially in terms of certifications and restorations, but we have also shared and enhanced the history of the brand and our cars with customers and enthusiasts all over the world.”
In February, Polo Storico participated in The ICE event held in Saint Moritz, where it showcased two iconic models from the Lamborghini Museum on the frozen lake: a 1973 Jarama S and a 1968 400 GT 2+2, both equipped with the legendary Lamborghini V12 engine.
In March, on the 60th anniversary of the 350 GT, Lamborghini’s first production car was taken to Geneva to commemorate the model’s debut at the 1964 Motor Show.
In May, the Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza hosted four classic Lamborghinis. These included a 1967 Miura P400 and a 1976 Countach LP 400, which was awarded by the jury with the Il Canto del Motore prize for the best sound. Also on display were a 1990 Countach 25th Anniversary, certified by Polo Storico, and a 1999 Diablo GT, currently undergoing analysis to obtain certification, which won the BMW Group Ragazzi trophy at Villa Erba, an award that confirms the growing attention of collectors to the youngtimer models. Also in May, Polo Storico participated in the Lamborghini Day UK event, where it showcased a Diablo SV and a Countach LP400, the first version of the iconic Lamborghini that in 2024 celebrated its 50th anniversary since going into production.
September marked some special moments linked to the Countach’s 50th anniversary. At the Chantilly Arts & Élégance Richard Mille, held in September in France, the Countach was the star of a dedicated class, with the presence of the very first production car built (chassis number 001). This historical example also returned to the original production line, the same place where the Lamborghini Revuelto is currently being produced, for a photo shoot that established a dialog between the past and present of the Lamborghini V12.
In October, at the Auto e Moto d’Epoca show in Bologna, Polo Storico displayed the body of a 1968 Miura S currently undergoing restoration and a 1994 Diablo SE in the process of certification. Finally, during the month of November, Polo Storico supported Lamborghini Day Germany with the presence of three classic Lamborghinis on display, all certified by Polo Storico: this was followed by Lamborghini Day Japan, an event enlivened by a parade of 131 cars, including 30 classic models supported by Polo Storico, representing the brand’s heritage through the streets of Tokyo. Being involved so extensively in these prestigious events during 2024, further strengthened the international ambassadorial role of Polo Storico on behalf of Lamborghini.
Continuing its steady growth, Lamborghini Polo Storico will mark its tenth anniversary in 2025. This important milestone is an opportunity for the Polo to celebrate its evolution and activities by participating in international and company events, along with concours d’elegance around the world, consolidating its central role in the preservation and enhancement of the brand’s history.
Here’s the dirty little secret about the car business. Though they’re well loved by aging car enthusiasts finally ready to spend some of that disposable income, newly minted vintage cars (30-years old in this case) can tend to be a paint for car manufacturers. Many of these cars have been garaged or retired, yet a smaller owner base remains a small yet highly outspoken group. Even still, this group holds a lot of influence with friends and family, meaning they help sell the new cars where the actual money is made. Classic parts divisions are often on minimal budgets if they exist at all. Still, some companies get the value, underlining the timelessness and inherent value of their product, and one of those is Mercedes-Benz.
We caught the below press release from the Mercedes-Benz global PR distribution, highlighting the latest cars to get support from their classics department. You’ll notice some regular players from our Market Finds series, with Mercedes’ own MANUFAKTUR division active in that time period, as well as Designo and Avantgard paint and design packages regulars in our European Market Finds mix for their unique and colorful options.
Bravo Mercedes. This isn’t a part of the business most easily associated with profits, but it remains core to support of owners and enthusiasts who care about your brand, which pays dividends in authenticity and passion that are hard to quantify yet critically necessary for a long-lived and/or premium brand.
BEGIN PRESS RELEASE – One Star, Four Eyes and Thousands of Parts: Mercedes-Benz Classic for the H Number Plate
[source: Mercedes-Benz]
Premiere of model series 210 in 1995: First E-Class with “four-eye face”
The Sprinter shapes an entire vehicle category
Further models and model variants from 1995 are ready for the classic car certificate
Mercedes-Benz Classic Genuine Parts keep classics on the road
Is your favourite car with the star actually already due for the H number plate? Every year, owners of Mercedes-Benz vehicles which have weathered the years marvel at which of the brand’s models and model series find themselves on this threshold to becoming classics. In 2025, for the first time, these include the E-Class of model series 210, the first generation of the Sprinter and models of the SL of model series 129 and the E-Class Coupé of model series 124.
One prerequisite for the coveted H number plate is a classic car certificate in accordance with Section 23 of the German Road Traffic Licencing Code (StVZO). Vehicles can qualify which are 30 years or older. This certificate attests to the good original condition of a classic vehicle. With or without the H number plate: with its services, Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH plays considerable role in keeping classics as well as younger vehicles from throughout the brand’s history in optimum condition. Particular attention is paid to components which are relevant to driving and safety. Mercedes-Benz Classic offers an extremely comprehensive supply of spare parts worldwide with around 160,000 part items. Many are ready for pick-up within 24 hours from just under 3,000 authorised dealers in 170 countries.
January 1995: Sprinter becomes new synonym for vans
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter premieres on 23 January 1995. On this day, 500 of the agile vans leave the Düsseldorf plant bound for German Mercedes-Benz dealerships. The “Van of the Year 1995” is so successful that it soon lends its name to an entire vehicle category – known colloquially as the “Sprinter Class”. The van is available in various wheelbases with different body variants. The offer initially comprises three models with petrol, diesel and turbodiesel engines. The ABS anti-lock braking system, ABD automatic brake differential and – for the first time in a van – four disk brakes are standard features.
June 1995: E-Class of model series 210 with “four-eye face”
Mercedes-Benz presents the second E-Class generation in June 1995. Model series 210 sets an unmistakable visual accent with its “four-eye face”. This designation comes from the four round headlamps at the front. The CLASSIC, ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE feature lines on offer are groundbreaking. The new E-Class initially starts with four diesel engines with four, five and six cylinders, as well as five petrol engines with four and six cylinders, and the E 420 with eight cylinders. In September 1995, the E 50 AMG follows as a top-of-the-line model; its eight-cylinder engine has an output of 255 kW/347 hp.
March and September 1995: Model series 129 with facelift and special model “Mille Miglia”
The updated SL of model series 129 premieres in September 1995. It is the first facelift of this generation of the Mercedes-Benz sports car. In addition to changes regarding details of the design, the SL is subject to technical innovations. These include a five-gear automatic transmission and revised engines in the SL 500 and SL 600. The Electronic Stability Program ESP® is available upon request for the two top models of model series. Headlamps with xenon gas discharge bulbs and a hardtop with a glass roof are now available as special features. In 1995, Mercedes-Benz presents the SL special model “Special Edition” of the W 129 with Mille Miglia style elements, of which 630 vehicles are produced. The “Mille Miglia” model is even more exclusive. Created as a support vehicle of the famous regularity drive for classic automobiles, only ten units are produced on the basis of the Special Edition.
October 1995: Mid-size van Vito
Vito is the name of the new light van in the mid-size segment from Mercedes-Benz. Model series 638 is presented in Madrid in October 1995. The commercial vehicle ranked below the Sprinter is available in Germany from March 1996 on. The offer comprises three feature versions and four engines.
Model variants and facelift in 1995
In the course of 1995, new models complement the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range. From January 1995, the E 200 Coupé of the 124 model series, previously reserved for export to Italy, Greece and Portugal, is also available in Germany. The C-Class of model series 202 is revised in September 1995 and is provided with an extended range of engines.
With genuine parts, the classic remains on the road – Authentic and stable in terms of value
Whether for the second generation of the E-Class, the SL of model series 129, the first Sprinter or other classics with the star: Mercedes-Benz Classic Genuine Parts have a comprehensive range of spare and wearing parts available for classic automobiles of the brand. The service stands for the highest quality and originality down to the last detail. Thus, Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH makes a significant contribution to maintaining the authentic condition of the brand’s classics in the long term.
A selection of parts for the vehicles presented here:
For the E-Class of model series 210, the radiator grille (part number A 210 880 00 83, EUR 755.67), left headlamp (part number A 210 820 03 61 64, EUR 594.79), right headlamp (part number A 210 820 04 61, EUR 594.79) and tool bag, empty (part number A 314 585 00 01, EUR 36.84) are available. The range of parts available for the E 50 AMG includes the left front catalytic converter (part number HWA 210 490 03 19, EUR 1,485.95), left front brake disk (part number HWA 210 421 01 12, EUR 481.62) and right front brake disk (part number HWA 210 421 02 12, EUR 481.62).
The spare parts portfolio for the Sprinter comprises, for example, the grille for the bonnet (part number A 901 830 02 18, EUR 18.09), the right headlamp (part number A 901 820 06 61, EUR 328.15) and left headlamp (part number A 901 820 05 61, EUR 328.15) as well as the right rear lens (part number A 000 826 19 56, EUR 55.12) and left rear lens (part number A 000 826 18 56, EUR 55.12).
For the facelifted SL of the 129 model series from September 1995 onwards, among other parts, the radiator (part number A 129 500 01 03, EUR 797.82), the front right mud wing (part number A 129 880 04 18, EUR 957.95), the front left mud wing (part number A 129 880 03 18, EUR 957.95) and the windscreen (part number A 129 670 09 01, EUR 1,003.57) are available.
For the E 200 Coupé of the 124 model series, for example, the eight-hole rim 6.5 x 15 (part number B 664 700 85, EUR 240.00), the front axle spring (A 124 321 19 04, EUR 167.22) and the Mercedes star (part number A 210 880 01 86, EUR 39.71) are available.
For the facelifted C-Class of the 202 model series, in addition to many other parts, the gear lever of the mechanical five-gear transmission (part number A 202 267 01 11 9C 05, EUR 220.39), the steering knuckle on the right (part number A 202 330 01 20, EUR 338.45) and the steering knuckle on the left (part number A 202 330 00 20, EUR 338.45) are available.
All prices specified are recommended retail prices for Germany and include 19 per cent value added tax. The Mercedes-Benz Classic Genuine Parts specified and other Mercedes-Benz Classic Genuine Parts can be found at: teilesuche.mercedes-benz-classic.com
