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always nice to see someone on here that steps out of the norm and creates a work of art to please themselves and no one else. Great work.
These past few weeks have been so hectic, that I even got sick a few days ago as the body and my noggin' have been at full tilt and then some... I only realized while at Werks this past Friday March 3rd, that I had not taken interior pics of the car in about a year! So, here are pics of my car at the event.
If cars have memory of years past, then this one definitely has it when Albert taped it up en route to Legends of the Autobahn in 2016:
As a matter of fact, I reached out to Albert before trekking the 600+ mile roundtrip to Amelia Island from Palm Beach in order to give me pointers on what he used and, although the tape job nor the car was not pretty when we finally arrived, it got the job done.
Although we got to the hotel the night before the first event, I am still uncertain how others get their cars (who drive them a long distance to an event) appearing clean and new on the morning of shows? It was uncomfortably hectic for me and thankfully, the brunt of the love bugs was absorbed by the tape. The car wash I took it was in no rush to even do anything with the car, despite me having had an appointment for 8am since the week prior and me showing up at 7:45am.
Onto the field we go but not first before another PCA volunteer attempted to block my entrance. With the previous email exchange the day prior when I got PCA national headquarters involved, I was very satisfied with the parking spot they gave me overseeing 100's of Boxsters, Caymans, Cayennes, Macans, 944's, and every flavor/color of 911's who had parking privileges inside the event:
The last pic (above) I found through coverage of the event by the website www.loveforporsche.com, as an fyi.
If cars have memory of years past, then this one definitely has it when Albert taped it up en route to Legends of the Autobahn in 2016:
As a matter of fact, I reached out to Albert before trekking the 600+ mile roundtrip to Amelia Island from Palm Beach in order to give me pointers on what he used and, although the tape job nor the car was not pretty when we finally arrived, it got the job done.
Although we got to the hotel the night before the first event, I am still uncertain how others get their cars (who drive them a long distance to an event) appearing clean and new on the morning of shows? It was uncomfortably hectic for me and thankfully, the brunt of the love bugs was absorbed by the tape. The car wash I took it was in no rush to even do anything with the car, despite me having had an appointment for 8am since the week prior and me showing up at 7:45am.
Onto the field we go but not first before another PCA volunteer attempted to block my entrance. With the previous email exchange the day prior when I got PCA national headquarters involved, I was very satisfied with the parking spot they gave me overseeing 100's of Boxsters, Caymans, Cayennes, Macans, 944's, and every flavor/color of 911's who had parking privileges inside the event:
The last pic (above) I found through coverage of the event by the website www.loveforporsche.com, as an fyi.
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As for the interior, I have previously posted about:
1) the Momo Elite steering wheel I sourced out of the UK;
2) the chrome surrounds on the dials inside the gauge cluster;
3) Michel hand forming new Hertz speaker grills; and
4) the replacement of the a/c vent on the driver's side and the center vent.
Below, you can further see he installed a brushed aluminum set of sport pedals, a chrome shifter surround which I think accentuates and brightens up the interior, as well as an accompanying Momo Combat Evo shift knob installed on a shortened shifter shaft from a w202 that a fellow board member sold me. I think it looks super sharp and glad I went a different route x2 on the shifter - just gives the interior a different touch!
This is a pic from earlier this week where Magnus Walker uploaded a pic of my ride in his Instagram - at the time, it had over 12K likes which I guess is not a bad thing
Although I am not, never been, nor likely ever will be on social media...
As of this past Monday night, there was a possibility I would drive on Tuesday to Miami for him to have filmed my car for his OPP show - driving Other People's Porsches. But, his agenda for less than 2 days in Miami was too full, this time...
1) the Momo Elite steering wheel I sourced out of the UK;
2) the chrome surrounds on the dials inside the gauge cluster;
3) Michel hand forming new Hertz speaker grills; and
4) the replacement of the a/c vent on the driver's side and the center vent.
Below, you can further see he installed a brushed aluminum set of sport pedals, a chrome shifter surround which I think accentuates and brightens up the interior, as well as an accompanying Momo Combat Evo shift knob installed on a shortened shifter shaft from a w202 that a fellow board member sold me. I think it looks super sharp and glad I went a different route x2 on the shifter - just gives the interior a different touch!
This is a pic from earlier this week where Magnus Walker uploaded a pic of my ride in his Instagram - at the time, it had over 12K likes which I guess is not a bad thing
Although I am not, never been, nor likely ever will be on social media...As of this past Monday night, there was a possibility I would drive on Tuesday to Miami for him to have filmed my car for his OPP show - driving Other People's Porsches. But, his agenda for less than 2 days in Miami was too full, this time...
Just when I think I cannot be any busier with lots of moving parts with work/outside of it, I then realize what had previously been my ceiling then becomes my floor... But, compared to the alternative, I will always prefer being+staying super busy!
Below are pics from Amelia on the 2nd show I did that weekend - which was Radwood. Unbeknownst to me, there were 2 categories: normal/basic and then premium, where the only difference was a $30 t-shirt. Of course, I opted for basic and parked amongst other cars that had more of a schtick/comedic/unremarkable presence and then... I bought the $30 t-shirt! On the premium side, they had some delectable choice offerings and will certainly head in that direction if/whenever I do it again.
There was a 80% chain of rain that day and it sure came down - hence my relief that the car did not have to be 100% clean as it got a lot of dust from the Werks Reunion event that Friday - coupled with lots of pollen and simply driving the car later that day to other happenings in town.
The field where the cars were displayed was also shared with the Concours d'Lemons which to me, seemed very staged/phony/photo op + social media geared for individuals who mostly went out of their way to stand out and, as someone who is not on social media, it left me with a weird taste in my mouth as the majority of the participants were mostly seeking attention. During the awards presentation, I think they gave out participation trophies as well, given that if 30 cars entered, there were no less than 25 awards or something ridiculously disproportionate handed out. I am not a fan.
See the pics below and, it was absolutely great seeing a fellow forum member there which was a complete surprise - Drew/Sheward!
A buddy from this forum forwarded the Insta for the Patina Collective/Vintage Benz Collector where they shared a pic of the Neez front wheel with the D-lng prototype adapter on the Rotiform Aerodisc and the BBS wheel caps taken at Radwood. I had no idea who this individual/ppl were until I googled them and found a thread on them in this very same forum! They are definitely polarizing and I will reserve my opinions to myself. However, they seemed to have also uploaded every single other MB that weekend as well, but... still cool that our w124.036's are getting some publicity! The unusual thing for me is that if the hood was open as the pic below shows, I definitely was next to the car although I would have remembered if they had asked any questions on the car (car is definitely also polarizing and an absolute conversation piece)! Oh well... no worries and on to the next of several more events!
Although I cannot upload videos off YouTube that a few individuals filmed of the car, here is another link with a picture of my car showing which is pretty cool:
www.firstcoastcarculture.com
Below are pics from Amelia on the 2nd show I did that weekend - which was Radwood. Unbeknownst to me, there were 2 categories: normal/basic and then premium, where the only difference was a $30 t-shirt. Of course, I opted for basic and parked amongst other cars that had more of a schtick/comedic/unremarkable presence and then... I bought the $30 t-shirt! On the premium side, they had some delectable choice offerings and will certainly head in that direction if/whenever I do it again.
There was a 80% chain of rain that day and it sure came down - hence my relief that the car did not have to be 100% clean as it got a lot of dust from the Werks Reunion event that Friday - coupled with lots of pollen and simply driving the car later that day to other happenings in town.
The field where the cars were displayed was also shared with the Concours d'Lemons which to me, seemed very staged/phony/photo op + social media geared for individuals who mostly went out of their way to stand out and, as someone who is not on social media, it left me with a weird taste in my mouth as the majority of the participants were mostly seeking attention. During the awards presentation, I think they gave out participation trophies as well, given that if 30 cars entered, there were no less than 25 awards or something ridiculously disproportionate handed out. I am not a fan.
See the pics below and, it was absolutely great seeing a fellow forum member there which was a complete surprise - Drew/Sheward!
A buddy from this forum forwarded the Insta for the Patina Collective/Vintage Benz Collector where they shared a pic of the Neez front wheel with the D-lng prototype adapter on the Rotiform Aerodisc and the BBS wheel caps taken at Radwood. I had no idea who this individual/ppl were until I googled them and found a thread on them in this very same forum! They are definitely polarizing and I will reserve my opinions to myself. However, they seemed to have also uploaded every single other MB that weekend as well, but... still cool that our w124.036's are getting some publicity! The unusual thing for me is that if the hood was open as the pic below shows, I definitely was next to the car although I would have remembered if they had asked any questions on the car (car is definitely also polarizing and an absolute conversation piece)! Oh well... no worries and on to the next of several more events!
Although I cannot upload videos off YouTube that a few individuals filmed of the car, here is another link with a picture of my car showing which is pretty cool:
Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance Archives • Jacksonville (First Coast) Car Culture
www.firstcoastcarculture.com
The work on the car had to be stepped up prior to its debut, so I still have pics + info about a few things not yet posted... So, below are pics from when I nervously picked up the super cool RENNtech airbox at the shop as what can go wrong, will go wrong with me it seems sometimes, and I did not really drive the car much prior to Amelia.
I once again was incredibly humbled when the crew at the shop descended on the car to admire it when those guys are used to/spoiled to see the best of the best. The attention given to me and this car from the guys at RENNtech means quite a bit, notwithstanding what normally pulls up at their place...
I do not recall ever having previously seen before this plastic piece being modified into carbon fiber before, to complement the CF RENNtech airbox, but it really does look like jewelry and both combined, really makes for quite a sight (for now, anyway)
The guys at RENNtech also filmed a short clip on their Classic Instagram feed featuring my car, which doesn't happen every day to me - not sure if was able to upload or not, but still dope
I once again was incredibly humbled when the crew at the shop descended on the car to admire it when those guys are used to/spoiled to see the best of the best. The attention given to me and this car from the guys at RENNtech means quite a bit, notwithstanding what normally pulls up at their place...
I do not recall ever having previously seen before this plastic piece being modified into carbon fiber before, to complement the CF RENNtech airbox, but it really does look like jewelry and both combined, really makes for quite a sight (for now, anyway)
The guys at RENNtech also filmed a short clip on their Classic Instagram feed featuring my car, which doesn't happen every day to me - not sure if was able to upload or not, but still dope
As I navigate throughout what seems a never ending journey to make this car be as good as I think I can make it (and afford), below are pics from the install of the hazard triangle on the trunk. The tricky part was indeed purchasing the clip to hold it in place, which I lucked out with CapTruff/Jeff sourcing parts he has and once again some of his being installed on this car.
Due to my inexperience, I was under the mistaken impression that the hazard/triangle sign could differ between models, so I only searched for listings on eBay that specified "w124" and begrudgingly bought this one since most listings did not include our model...
After a thorough cleaning using bleach, it came out considerably better, although I am convinced that I could have found a few in better condition knowing now that all of them are the same and in comparison to what I ended up paying for this one!
PS - I tried uploading no less than 6-8 additional pics of the sign (before/after) but could not get uploaded onto this post, perhaps because the phone took them sideways and I then edited them to tilt as they were meant to appear, but... I neither have the time or the energy to look into it, so below are just the pics after another mechanic (the father/son shop that redid the engine) installed it:
It came out looking good, in all sincerity - and simply adds to the satisfaction in knowing this was a feature that came on these cars... Kinda cool, no? No points with my wife, but then again - not looking for any
Due to my inexperience, I was under the mistaken impression that the hazard/triangle sign could differ between models, so I only searched for listings on eBay that specified "w124" and begrudgingly bought this one since most listings did not include our model...
After a thorough cleaning using bleach, it came out considerably better, although I am convinced that I could have found a few in better condition knowing now that all of them are the same and in comparison to what I ended up paying for this one!
PS - I tried uploading no less than 6-8 additional pics of the sign (before/after) but could not get uploaded onto this post, perhaps because the phone took them sideways and I then edited them to tilt as they were meant to appear, but... I neither have the time or the energy to look into it, so below are just the pics after another mechanic (the father/son shop that redid the engine) installed it:
It came out looking good, in all sincerity - and simply adds to the satisfaction in knowing this was a feature that came on these cars... Kinda cool, no? No points with my wife, but then again - not looking for any
I cannot, cannot recommend this next upgrade enough as it’s something you didn’t know you wanted or needed - but when you have it, you’ll be as glad and happy as me - that you did!
I also normally don’t mention other forum members’s names, but I give credit where credit is due… 2Phast makes these rearview mirrors that have a built-in rear camera monitor about 3 inches in diameter. I smile every time I back the car out from anywhere and, made my decision to remove entirely the iPad installed in the center console of my car, that much quicker and easier.
The level of 2Phast’s attention to detail in every aspect (videos of this install available) and overall thorough knowledge of this process coupled with excellent attentiveness, is a standard we all should aspire to.
You have to purchase the rear camera yourself and I bought the one he recommended via Amazon for about $25. The magic, however, is in his otherwise relatively straightforward swap of rearview mirrors. The pictures don’t do this enough justice and only show the kit when it arrived, the camera, and what I see when I back out as I did not install it myself and no pics were taken of this. However, it’s definitely worth having in your car!!!
I also normally don’t mention other forum members’s names, but I give credit where credit is due… 2Phast makes these rearview mirrors that have a built-in rear camera monitor about 3 inches in diameter. I smile every time I back the car out from anywhere and, made my decision to remove entirely the iPad installed in the center console of my car, that much quicker and easier.
The level of 2Phast’s attention to detail in every aspect (videos of this install available) and overall thorough knowledge of this process coupled with excellent attentiveness, is a standard we all should aspire to.
You have to purchase the rear camera yourself and I bought the one he recommended via Amazon for about $25. The magic, however, is in his otherwise relatively straightforward swap of rearview mirrors. The pictures don’t do this enough justice and only show the kit when it arrived, the camera, and what I see when I back out as I did not install it myself and no pics were taken of this. However, it’s definitely worth having in your car!!!
Last month, I went to Sebring in order to watch the birth of the new prototype era at the opening round of the World Endurance Championship ("WEC") for the 1,000 km's of Sebring, and the day after - the IMSA equivalent for the annual 12 Hours of Sebring. I was particularly excited to be able to park my 124.036 at the Porsche Corral. Alas, that's another story that I will document in an Off Topics Discussion thread. But, enjoy the pics:
This pic was taken in December of 2021 when I attended the Sebring Classic hosted by the HSR.
I tried emulating this pic for posterity purposes, having arrived early although easily over 100K people attended the races that weekend and there is only 1 entrance - this one!
This pic was at the start of the race when the cars were bunched up - you can see the Ferrari 499 making its worldwide debut, a hint of Cadillac in blue right behind it, the 2 Penske Porsches, the stunningly beautiful Peugeot 9x8, the Glickenhaus, and the Vanwall (Jacques Villenueve races in that team). Super, super cool...
This pic was taken in December of 2021 when I attended the Sebring Classic hosted by the HSR.
I tried emulating this pic for posterity purposes, having arrived early although easily over 100K people attended the races that weekend and there is only 1 entrance - this one!
This pic was at the start of the race when the cars were bunched up - you can see the Ferrari 499 making its worldwide debut, a hint of Cadillac in blue right behind it, the 2 Penske Porsches, the stunningly beautiful Peugeot 9x8, the Glickenhaus, and the Vanwall (Jacques Villenueve races in that team). Super, super cool...
After Sebring, I attended an car show with son - Sebastien - in tow, where I had shown a handful of my cars in the past. It is called The Palm Event and Mar-a-Lago has hosted it for most of its 8 year run: The Palm Event.
Given that I live less than 10 minutes away, I took full advantage of a quick impromptu photo shoot once past the Secret Service. 45th was at the event itself, which he's attended many times in the past. I humbly believe my car was more interesting than some of the participants in the show, but the difference would have been that I have never paid to actually enter my Porsche 911 or Ferrari, so... all good. I had a nice time and my son got to take pics of some cool cars. Hope you like the pics and, more updates coming!
Given that I live less than 10 minutes away, I took full advantage of a quick impromptu photo shoot once past the Secret Service. 45th was at the event itself, which he's attended many times in the past. I humbly believe my car was more interesting than some of the participants in the show, but the difference would have been that I have never paid to actually enter my Porsche 911 or Ferrari, so... all good. I had a nice time and my son got to take pics of some cool cars. Hope you like the pics and, more updates coming!
The second half of this year has been truly overwhelming for me on the professional front. On one end, blessed to be incredibly busy - but on the other - lacking any kind of balance/quality of life what-so-ever... This has been based on a variety of factors where ultimately, everything related to my business falls onto my shoulders and I have no choice but to put in 70+ hour work weeks regularly and, many "normal" activities as well as relationships have fallen by the way side. So, going forward... I am hopeful to become a more frequent contributor to this forum once again.
With that out of the way, I begged/pleaded/insisted that my very talented friend - Michel - assist me in getting this car more in line to my taste... Albert built it as a show car, and a show car it has been! However, I got tired of having to constantly open the glove compartment to access the a/c controls given that the thermostat is not digital. Whereas I truly enjoy how cold the a/c works, many times within a 10-20 minute ride, I would have to either decrease the fan speed and/or change the temperature dial. And, when I combined that with the many times I wanted to change the radio stations (I know I may be antiquated, but I listen to terrestrial radio every single day - and Pandora when working out), then the dang glove compartment was open most of the time, and I didn't care for it!
This is a picture of what I had done with the car at the time I brought it to Michel's shop a Saturday early morning: 1) changed the steering wheel to a Momo 4 spoke, which as mentioned earlier in this thread, would have been the only choice possible for me; 2) changed the gear shifter to a shorter one; 3) changed the gear knob to a Momo one with black leather and chrome; 4) installed a chrome shifter surround like I had done with my previous 500e; 5) installed chrome bezel surrounds inside the dash so that all these accents would brighten the interior somewhat; 7) installed aluminum pedals (again, as done on my previous 500e); 8) although not visible in this picture, replaced the previously warped center A/C vent and the broken driver's side vent as well; 9) installed speaker grills on both front doors; 10) replaced the previous head unit with an Alpine as I do with all of my cars; and lastly, 11) the replacement of the rearview mirror.
With the amazingly cool rearview mirror incorporating a screen within it to display the area behind the car, coupled with not needing the mini iPad in the car for anything since I used the Alpine stereo, the iPad had to go and, me reclaim this car's glove compartment once more! So, I sourced one from eBay (believe it was the only one available for sale in the globe or something... I was shocked about the lack of options) and this is what I got.
There was no way I had properly anticipated the amount of work we were facing that day to make me happy in getting the stereo and A/C controls moved back to the car's center console. Not at all!
Step 1 - remove the iPad that was affixed snugly with a magnet:
Step 2 - remove the head unit and loosen up the custom carbon fiber panel that affixed both the stereo and A/C controls from their present location. I had concerns about how blue the panel was in comparison to the present color of every other piece in the car's interior resembling now more like gray...
Step 3 - remove the carbon fiber trim holding the iPad within the center dash, as that appeared to limit us on where we would be able to install the A/C controls (reality kicked in at that moment, actually)... and, removed the head unit and A/C controls from the other carbon fiber panel inside the glove box.
This picture shows that the car's steel structural beam would not allow enough room for the stereo to be installed there under any circumstances... as there simply is not enough depth for the stereo to slide in the lower portion of the opening, while the a/c controls would be above. Hmmm - now what?
With that out of the way, I begged/pleaded/insisted that my very talented friend - Michel - assist me in getting this car more in line to my taste... Albert built it as a show car, and a show car it has been! However, I got tired of having to constantly open the glove compartment to access the a/c controls given that the thermostat is not digital. Whereas I truly enjoy how cold the a/c works, many times within a 10-20 minute ride, I would have to either decrease the fan speed and/or change the temperature dial. And, when I combined that with the many times I wanted to change the radio stations (I know I may be antiquated, but I listen to terrestrial radio every single day - and Pandora when working out), then the dang glove compartment was open most of the time, and I didn't care for it!
This is a picture of what I had done with the car at the time I brought it to Michel's shop a Saturday early morning: 1) changed the steering wheel to a Momo 4 spoke, which as mentioned earlier in this thread, would have been the only choice possible for me; 2) changed the gear shifter to a shorter one; 3) changed the gear knob to a Momo one with black leather and chrome; 4) installed a chrome shifter surround like I had done with my previous 500e; 5) installed chrome bezel surrounds inside the dash so that all these accents would brighten the interior somewhat; 7) installed aluminum pedals (again, as done on my previous 500e); 8) although not visible in this picture, replaced the previously warped center A/C vent and the broken driver's side vent as well; 9) installed speaker grills on both front doors; 10) replaced the previous head unit with an Alpine as I do with all of my cars; and lastly, 11) the replacement of the rearview mirror.
With the amazingly cool rearview mirror incorporating a screen within it to display the area behind the car, coupled with not needing the mini iPad in the car for anything since I used the Alpine stereo, the iPad had to go and, me reclaim this car's glove compartment once more! So, I sourced one from eBay (believe it was the only one available for sale in the globe or something... I was shocked about the lack of options) and this is what I got.
There was no way I had properly anticipated the amount of work we were facing that day to make me happy in getting the stereo and A/C controls moved back to the car's center console. Not at all!
Step 1 - remove the iPad that was affixed snugly with a magnet:
Step 2 - remove the head unit and loosen up the custom carbon fiber panel that affixed both the stereo and A/C controls from their present location. I had concerns about how blue the panel was in comparison to the present color of every other piece in the car's interior resembling now more like gray...
Step 3 - remove the carbon fiber trim holding the iPad within the center dash, as that appeared to limit us on where we would be able to install the A/C controls (reality kicked in at that moment, actually)... and, removed the head unit and A/C controls from the other carbon fiber panel inside the glove box.
This picture shows that the car's steel structural beam would not allow enough room for the stereo to be installed there under any circumstances... as there simply is not enough depth for the stereo to slide in the lower portion of the opening, while the a/c controls would be above. Hmmm - now what?
Well - you make do with what you have, of course - what else!?!? After measuring what must have been a million times, we were left with a single option only - as we did not even have half of an inch of room to spare. The plan was to install the stereo in the open pocket below the iPad space and, within the iPad space, install the A/C controls - sounds simple, no?
But - it allowed for a space to remain as the A/C would not take up the entire area. So, Michel decided that he would create a pocket/shelf area above the a/c controls where the steel beam was located. He would then trim the carbon fiber trim already customized for the A/C controls in order to move them from the glove box and towards the car's center console - which is the most visible part of the entire car's interior. No pressure.
This is the kind of stuff Michel does in his sleep, and I have seen him do it on my other cars... where he makes something out of nothing and, its inspiring to see firsthand how individuals with real talent, get on with a challenge... For most of us, we have seen on TV and they do it in less than a minute, right Well, to see it in person was a treat for me but I was not coming back home at a decent hour that day/night.
Michel started with a piece of aluminum that would serve as the shelf onto which he could then affix the carbon fiber panel housing the A/C control. Super cool to see firsthand, although my assistance in this process was to simply take pics off my iPhone.
But - it allowed for a space to remain as the A/C would not take up the entire area. So, Michel decided that he would create a pocket/shelf area above the a/c controls where the steel beam was located. He would then trim the carbon fiber trim already customized for the A/C controls in order to move them from the glove box and towards the car's center console - which is the most visible part of the entire car's interior. No pressure.
This is the kind of stuff Michel does in his sleep, and I have seen him do it on my other cars... where he makes something out of nothing and, its inspiring to see firsthand how individuals with real talent, get on with a challenge... For most of us, we have seen on TV and they do it in less than a minute, right
Well, to see it in person was a treat for me but I was not coming back home at a decent hour that day/night. Michel started with a piece of aluminum that would serve as the shelf onto which he could then affix the carbon fiber panel housing the A/C control. Super cool to see firsthand, although my assistance in this process was to simply take pics off my iPhone.
And then, with a knack for origami coupled with some ninja skills, Michel created this exactingly perfect shelf that was slim enough (horizontally) to occupy the small space above where the A/C controls would go, and short enough to maximize the depth of the space onto the steel beam (vertically, huh? Okay - I too am confused), but it was spot on!!!
Step no. 56 - or close to that - Michel starts making room within the carbon fiber panel that held the iPad in place, in order to now house the newly formed shelf pocket, along with the A/C controls.
Since he knows a thing or 2 about brackets and keeping things tidy, this picture below exemplifies his methodical and very talented approach to yield the desired goal of making it look as tight/nice as possible.
Step no. 56 - or close to that - Michel starts making room within the carbon fiber panel that held the iPad in place, in order to now house the newly formed shelf pocket, along with the A/C controls.
Since he knows a thing or 2 about brackets and keeping things tidy, this picture below exemplifies his methodical and very talented approach to yield the desired goal of making it look as tight/nice as possible.
This small trim piece from the glove compartment was a big source of worry for me... On one end, it was already perfect in that it was created by Albert out of carbon fiber, specific to these a/c controls... but, on the other - that blue tint/hue was not ever going to blend with the rest of the car's interior where the carbon fiber had changed colors to a gray hue. After considerable debate, we decided to then flip this piece to instead use the back side of it which had little blue, and then Michel breathed on it by sanding/painting it very carefully as there was glue residue, imperfections, etc. - and again, were left with what we had. I believe after spending a lot of time with this very small, but very visible (and important) piece of the puzzle, that I would be okay with the end result as again, options were limited.
Now knowing we could continue at full steam ahead, Michel grabbed some fabric and did a nice job to cover his custom aluminum shelf pocket. Easy peasy and all of us can do this, right? Yeah? That's a No!
Progress - and looking kinda cool in comparison to what we had that morning.
One thing I WAS able to do throughout this mini project that day, was to wash the replacement glove box and paint it. It now looked much better than how it had been from before.
Folks, the re-routing of the wires from the glove box back to the center console was straightforward but, not simple. Neither was to do this conversion of installing the replacement glove box while repositioning the stereo and A/C controls back to the dash. Nonetheless, below is the final result and I am ever so happy!
The car is now more user-friendly, where I have my stereo at my fingertips... I also have the A/C controls where they ought to be... And, I have a perfect spot to place my cell phone or whatever else I want. This was very labor intensive but I have been over the moon in not having to drive the car with the glove box always open, which was not sexy nor cool when my wife was in the passenger seat And, the gray carbon fiber panel for the A/C blends naturally into the glove box, everything works, all the aesthetics are perfectly measured, and super stoked with the new appearance + functionality.
It would not be possible without Albert's original attention to detail, coupled with Michel's ninja skills and at the end, I am a very happy fella!
Now knowing we could continue at full steam ahead, Michel grabbed some fabric and did a nice job to cover his custom aluminum shelf pocket. Easy peasy and all of us can do this, right? Yeah? That's a No!
Progress - and looking kinda cool in comparison to what we had that morning.
One thing I WAS able to do throughout this mini project that day, was to wash the replacement glove box and paint it. It now looked much better than how it had been from before.
Folks, the re-routing of the wires from the glove box back to the center console was straightforward but, not simple. Neither was to do this conversion of installing the replacement glove box while repositioning the stereo and A/C controls back to the dash. Nonetheless, below is the final result and I am ever so happy!
The car is now more user-friendly, where I have my stereo at my fingertips... I also have the A/C controls where they ought to be... And, I have a perfect spot to place my cell phone or whatever else I want. This was very labor intensive but I have been over the moon in not having to drive the car with the glove box always open, which was not sexy nor cool when my wife was in the passenger seat
And, the gray carbon fiber panel for the A/C blends naturally into the glove box, everything works, all the aesthetics are perfectly measured, and super stoked with the new appearance + functionality. It would not be possible without Albert's original attention to detail, coupled with Michel's ninja skills and at the end, I am a very happy fella!
Owning this car now for over 2.5 years, I am now coming to the realization that the 16x8in OEM 8 hole wheel the car came to me with as a spare tire, does not fit the front 355mm brakes on this car... So, I welcome some help that would allow me to not worry about being left stranded on the side of the road if/when a puncture takes place? Something like this is not a straightforward issue that I could simply order several until 1 fits.
Whatever suggestions or links of alternatives the board can offer is absolutely welcomed!
Whatever suggestions or links of alternatives the board can offer is absolutely welcomed!
I think most MB/AMG wheels 18" in diameter and 8.0-8.5" wide should work ok, assuming offsets in the general range of ET20-ET40. However, since those are aftermarket calipers, I don't know if there is more or less clearance between the wheel spokes and caliper face vs stock brakes... so I'm not sure what wheels will / won't clear the StopTechs.
Below is a link from an eBay vendor with over 90K items, but several MB OEM spare wheel and tire offerings... There are so many listed for sale, in fact - that it is somewhat overwhelming! Different flavors + colors for 18" wheels listed and ideally, someone in this board can guide me to one of these being sold that would be a good fit - w215, w216, r230, r129, etc. If I had a choice of asking the seller for advice or this board - there is no comparison as nowhere else in the world is there a better source of knowledge and experience about .036's! My car has the 355mm Stop Tech Big Brakes upfront, so a spare tire that has ample room/hollow obviously would be best!
I drive my car daily and knowing that I do not have a spare tire is not the best way to tempt fate. Your input, time, and assistance are greatly appreciated and thank you in advance for your help. PM directly with the link on the wheel/tire combo that should cut the mustard, if you prefer.
I drive my car daily and knowing that I do not have a spare tire is not the best way to tempt fate. Your input, time, and assistance are greatly appreciated and thank you in advance for your help. PM directly with the link on the wheel/tire combo that should cut the mustard, if you prefer.
Mercedes Spare Tire for sale | eBay
Get the best deals for Mercedes Spare Tire at eBay.com. We have a great online selection at the lowest prices with Fast & Free shipping on many items!
www.ebay.com
Due to the differing spoke designs of wheels no one can definitively say what would work, excepting another owner with the Stop Tech brakes. I know an 18-inch Monoblock will clear a 355mm Wilwood caliper so I would recommend an 18-inch wheel with an offset of around et32 or lower.
An option would be to carry a 12mm spacer with appropriate extended lug bolts to use in conjunction with an 18-inch wheel should your wheel choice interfere with your caliper. Keep in mind any lug bolts used regardless will need to be appropriate length to use in the back hub and not extend into the parking brake assembly. The spacer will allow many different 18-inch wheels to work.
An option would be to carry a 12mm spacer with appropriate extended lug bolts to use in conjunction with an 18-inch wheel should your wheel choice interfere with your caliper. Keep in mind any lug bolts used regardless will need to be appropriate length to use in the back hub and not extend into the parking brake assembly. The spacer will allow many different 18-inch wheels to work.
Otto,Below is a link from an eBay vendor with over 90K items, but several MB OEM spare wheel and tire offerings... There are so many listed for sale, in fact - that it is somewhat overwhelming! Different flavors + colors for 18" wheels listed and ideally, someone in this board can guide me to one of these being sold that would be a good fit - w215, w216, r230, r129, etc. If I had a choice of asking the seller for advice or this board - there is no comparison as nowhere else in the world is there a better source of knowledge and experience about .036's! My car has the 355mm Stop Tech Big Brakes upfront, so a spare tire that has ample room/hollow obviously would be best!
I drive my car daily and knowing that I do not have a spare tire is not the best way to tempt fate. Your input, time, and assistance are greatly appreciated and thank you in advance for your help. PM directly with the link on the wheel/tire combo that should cut the mustard, if you prefer.
Mercedes Spare Tire for sale | eBay
Get the best deals for Mercedes Spare Tire at eBay.com. We have a great online selection at the lowest prices with Fast & Free shipping on many items!www.ebay.com
If you specifically wants an emergency spare wheel you're pretty locked up on dimensions due to the brakes up front on your car. To clear the calipers you need minimum a 18" rim with a projecting spoke design. The enclosed link is an emergency spare wheel for V8 powered W212, W218 etc.. fitted with a similar brake set-up; 155/60 tire on a 18"x 4,5" ET36 rim. This emergency spare tire has the correct load index for the 036, but the diameter is slightly smaller (-10 mm) than our stock wheel giving +1,66% wheel speed error. I cannot say for sure that this is a direct fit without clearance issues, but I think this is the closest you get. Maybe a tiny spacer is needed and custom bolt lengths.
Alloy Wheel & Tyre Fitment Calculator. Offset, Tyre Stretch and Speedo Error | Will They Fit
Alloy Wheel & tyre fitment calculator - it calculates inset, poke, speedo error, tyre stretch and loads more.
www.willtheyfit.com
P/N #212 401 33 02
2124013302 for sale | eBay
Get the best deals for 2124013302 at eBay.com. We have a great online selection at the lowest prices with Fast & Free shipping on many items!
www.ebay.com
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I was looking into this years ago when I had ambitious plans for a big brake set-up similar to what Otto has, but that hasn't materialized, only the parts hoarding. I thought I could save some space above the spare wheel inside the trunk, so I could fit the 5 ltr. Bellino spare gas can inside the spare wheel + the W140 tool box on top of that. But that emergency spare wheel has almost the same width as the stock spare wheel and fills up the trunk anyway. Additionally do all emergency spare wheels have speed restrictions, so all in all just pain - no gain. If I ever do the big brakes I'll look for a regular 18" as a spare wheel, just like Drew described in post #167.
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It appears as if the W212 and w218 spares could work, so I’ve placed an offer on one that appears to never have been installed! I’ll report back after the holidays as my work schedule continues to be unreasonably hectic. However, this is important to me and thank you all for your help! The car is driven daily but I have some minor changes that may or may not pan out ahead of some shows coming up in the next few months.
I went ahead and bought a spare tire identical to the link sent to me by Arnt and last weekend, took it to the tire shop. Here are pics of the factory OEM wheel that "served" as the spare. I have no use for it and I can give it away to whomever wants it, as long they pay for shipping.
Car at the tire shop. At the front, the wheel fit incredibly well with zero issues:
Out back, the wheel fits as well, but the plastic hub adapter would end up shredded, as it had become part of the hub and we did not want to remove it so as to ensure flush fitment. As far as I am concerned, problem solved and I will need to get a hold of Albert for replacement adapters as I prefer having them whenever they do perish if/when I have a flat on the side of the road and get the busted tire fixed.
All of this came about when I went over a pothole covered in water at an intersection that I pass by regularly. The driver's front tire essentially exploded, unbeknownst to me - even though I inspected it less than 2 minutes later when I pulled up at a nearby gas station. Driving home immediately thereafter (also some 4 mins away), the handling was off so I thought that the alignment was rocked. Only when I pulled up home and got out of the car, did I hear the leaking of the air with the tire deflating in front of me. Because a tire shop was conveniently located 5 minutes away, my son stayed behind and I took the car over to get the tire looked after.
I don't have pics from that day, but there was a gouge on the sidewall of the tire so I had to replace that tire (and ordered another one for the other side) - which was a pricey ordeal. I could not drive the car back home as we could not install the OEM spare, but luckily - the new replacement tires arrived the following day/tires balanced/car aligned/and my wallet still hurts although unsure what the eff I could have done differently. Demanding a reimbursement from the city is a waste of time and the pothole did get fixed afterwards but - just crazy how quickly it apparently developed and something like this had never happened before, thankfully! I thank God I got off 'lightly' as imagine if I would have been on the interstate or far away from home and/or a tire place while driving around with the family?
A big thanks to all who helped guide me into resolving this sometimes forgotten, but all so important safety issues.
Out back, the wheel fits as well, but the plastic hub adapter would end up shredded, as it had become part of the hub and we did not want to remove it so as to ensure flush fitment. As far as I am concerned, problem solved and I will need to get a hold of Albert for replacement adapters as I prefer having them whenever they do perish if/when I have a flat on the side of the road and get the busted tire fixed.
All of this came about when I went over a pothole covered in water at an intersection that I pass by regularly. The driver's front tire essentially exploded, unbeknownst to me - even though I inspected it less than 2 minutes later when I pulled up at a nearby gas station. Driving home immediately thereafter (also some 4 mins away), the handling was off so I thought that the alignment was rocked. Only when I pulled up home and got out of the car, did I hear the leaking of the air with the tire deflating in front of me. Because a tire shop was conveniently located 5 minutes away, my son stayed behind and I took the car over to get the tire looked after.
I don't have pics from that day, but there was a gouge on the sidewall of the tire so I had to replace that tire (and ordered another one for the other side) - which was a pricey ordeal. I could not drive the car back home as we could not install the OEM spare, but luckily - the new replacement tires arrived the following day/tires balanced/car aligned/and my wallet still hurts although unsure what the eff I could have done differently. Demanding a reimbursement from the city is a waste of time and the pothole did get fixed afterwards but - just crazy how quickly it apparently developed and something like this had never happened before, thankfully! I thank God I got off 'lightly' as imagine if I would have been on the interstate or far away from home and/or a tire place while driving around with the family?
A big thanks to all who helped guide me into resolving this sometimes forgotten, but all so important safety issues.
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Good that you got this worked out, and close to home.
A couple years back I was driving my F350 on the freeway after dark in the Detroit Michigan area where I grew up. Due to the temperature extremes there the roads are constantly in horrible condition. I hit a hole so large I'm SURE it would have destroyed the wheel and bent the control arm on a W124. After realizing it was a hole and not a catastrophic vehicle failure, I noticed half a dozen vehicles and tow trucks on the side of the highway.
When driving in the Detroit area you never take your eyes off the road.
That's a kind offer for anyone local in need of a spare or replacement.
A couple years back I was driving my F350 on the freeway after dark in the Detroit Michigan area where I grew up. Due to the temperature extremes there the roads are constantly in horrible condition. I hit a hole so large I'm SURE it would have destroyed the wheel and bent the control arm on a W124. After realizing it was a hole and not a catastrophic vehicle failure, I noticed half a dozen vehicles and tow trucks on the side of the highway.
When driving in the Detroit area you never take your eyes off the road.
That's a kind offer for anyone local in need of a spare or replacement.
Keeping things fresh... sounds good and certain to be applicable to many different circumstances; however, hard to do at times on cars from a purely aesthetic perspective. This time last year, the car was nearing completion after undergoing an 10+ month extended stay my friend's shop - Michel. My other cars have had their share of expected issues, so the 124.036 has stepped in as my DD, mostly consisting of driving 4 miles to work, my son's school, and almost always staying nearby.
Participating in Werks Reunion and Radwood at Amelia last year were the biggest shows the car was entered, but I had planned on entering the car on a couple of other ones this year that in 2023, the car simply was not ready. So - what do I do to freshen up the car? Hmmmm.
Well, the idea popped up that I have a set of perfectly good Rotiform Aerodisc turbo fans in black that were never used... These are from when the prototype D-ling center hub adapter system was completed after it arrived from Belgium:
It was too plain and dark... so much so, that I instead switched gears and opted for a new set of white ones, so as to bring some color to an otherwise black slab at the front wheels... When I eventually decided on the final design for the white ones, which incorporated the blue hue from the car's previous life, along with the Porsche Slate Gray accents and a hint of BBS mesh design - I had the graphic artist send me the center decal cutouts anyway. I then had Michel install them on the black Aerodiscs just for the heck of it, but, wasn't doing anything for me.
With these turbo fans essentially always having been sitting, I decided to shake things up a bit (for those who don't like modified anything - thank you for reading but you can stop now) so that the car could have a different look.
No doubt that my influence on the design of this car is motorsports-derived, as Porsche perhaps would have done 30 years ago when this model was being sold + marketed, had they decided to race it. As far back as the late 1960's, Porsche began using 5 spoke, center-lock design wheels for their competition cars and - not by coincidence - was the same design I had used when redoing my 965 into a modern interpretation of a 1970's race car. Being that this 500e already has the beautiful Neez 5 spokes, I decided to further explore the possibility of a new vinyl design featuring a similar resemblance. Well - that was the initial thought, anyway!
Because I am not fond with the black background of this unused set of turbofans, it was important for me to bring white to it while also including some blue as the car's 2nd trim color, complimented by the slate gray. There also would have to be various design cues to give some depth to the overall appearance for this new design. White 5 spoke design? Check. A radius or 2 with the slate (dark) gray? Check. Execution - this was the first run of the designs from the graphic artist:
The second one appealed to me the most in order for us to move forward with it, with the least amount of black possible, and some additional tweaks such as insisting on a white border as the outer portion of the turbofan would be black. I also wanted to sharpen every line within the design by using the dark gray... and, putting these little blocks as another way to tie in the blue into otherwise white 5 spoke design.
Productions pics which, like on TV where they do a 48 minute show to highlight 100's of hours over 7-12 months' of work - this took too many weeks to get to, as a result of the graphic artist's busy schedule.
A rush, rush to finish and FedEx overnight later, coupled with taking a day off work just so that I could head to Michel's to get it professionally installed, then here we were. I had also bought a replacement RhinoLip front lower rubber trim to replace the DD duty one at the front of the car for the past year as some of the to-do's at the shop prior to heading into a local, but popular show here in WPB - Supercarweek.
I have upload a few (hundred it seems) photos on this forum, but cannot upload one showing the actually, not either simple nor straightforward install of the vinyl onto the turbofan.
This is the result:
Participating in Werks Reunion and Radwood at Amelia last year were the biggest shows the car was entered, but I had planned on entering the car on a couple of other ones this year that in 2023, the car simply was not ready. So - what do I do to freshen up the car? Hmmmm.
Well, the idea popped up that I have a set of perfectly good Rotiform Aerodisc turbo fans in black that were never used... These are from when the prototype D-ling center hub adapter system was completed after it arrived from Belgium:
It was too plain and dark... so much so, that I instead switched gears and opted for a new set of white ones, so as to bring some color to an otherwise black slab at the front wheels... When I eventually decided on the final design for the white ones, which incorporated the blue hue from the car's previous life, along with the Porsche Slate Gray accents and a hint of BBS mesh design - I had the graphic artist send me the center decal cutouts anyway. I then had Michel install them on the black Aerodiscs just for the heck of it, but, wasn't doing anything for me.
With these turbo fans essentially always having been sitting, I decided to shake things up a bit (for those who don't like modified anything - thank you for reading but you can stop now) so that the car could have a different look.
No doubt that my influence on the design of this car is motorsports-derived, as Porsche perhaps would have done 30 years ago when this model was being sold + marketed, had they decided to race it. As far back as the late 1960's, Porsche began using 5 spoke, center-lock design wheels for their competition cars and - not by coincidence - was the same design I had used when redoing my 965 into a modern interpretation of a 1970's race car. Being that this 500e already has the beautiful Neez 5 spokes, I decided to further explore the possibility of a new vinyl design featuring a similar resemblance. Well - that was the initial thought, anyway!
Because I am not fond with the black background of this unused set of turbofans, it was important for me to bring white to it while also including some blue as the car's 2nd trim color, complimented by the slate gray. There also would have to be various design cues to give some depth to the overall appearance for this new design. White 5 spoke design? Check. A radius or 2 with the slate (dark) gray? Check. Execution - this was the first run of the designs from the graphic artist:
The second one appealed to me the most in order for us to move forward with it, with the least amount of black possible, and some additional tweaks such as insisting on a white border as the outer portion of the turbofan would be black. I also wanted to sharpen every line within the design by using the dark gray... and, putting these little blocks as another way to tie in the blue into otherwise white 5 spoke design.
Productions pics which, like on TV where they do a 48 minute show to highlight 100's of hours over 7-12 months' of work - this took too many weeks to get to, as a result of the graphic artist's busy schedule.
A rush, rush to finish and FedEx overnight later, coupled with taking a day off work just so that I could head to Michel's to get it professionally installed, then here we were. I had also bought a replacement RhinoLip front lower rubber trim to replace the DD duty one at the front of the car for the past year as some of the to-do's at the shop prior to heading into a local, but popular show here in WPB - Supercarweek.
I have upload a few (hundred it seems) photos on this forum, but cannot upload one showing the actually, not either simple nor straightforward install of the vinyl onto the turbofan.
This is the result:
Despite the enthusiasm, efforts, time and resources into looking forward to freshen the look of the car up with a different, new design - it has not grown on me, to be honest. The following day, I then took the car to get it detailed for the show which took place 2 weeks ago today.
Not sure if I am just used to the original, white design or - that I have to give it more time on my end (?!?). So, I decided to simply install a single black one on the passenger side and drive the car with both designs, so people can decide for themselves which one they like the most.
All set and ready to go - the car was looking as good as it was going to get. But, Mother Nature called for a different kind of show that Sunday.
Not sure if I am just used to the original, white design or - that I have to give it more time on my end (?!?). So, I decided to simply install a single black one on the passenger side and drive the car with both designs, so people can decide for themselves which one they like the most.
All set and ready to go - the car was looking as good as it was going to get. But, Mother Nature called for a different kind of show that Sunday.
I live less than 5 minutes away from where the show has been held for decades... in beautiful downtown West Palm on the waterfront, where the streets are closed just for event. I have shown a few cars over the years and friends with the organizer/owners but, I genuinely felt bad for them as this type of show brings individuals who may not know or care about cars, into a car event. Although the weather went from crap to less crappy but still deplorable, the local car community still came in for the 2024 event but at maybe 10-15% of the expected outcome. Kudos to those of us who use the cars as intended, driving them in rain or shine weather as they are just cars!
RENNtech was celebrating their 35th anniversary so it was cool for my car to be parked in their area. But, we managed to have a good time indoors regardless and I am happy to have shown the car on this local event. One show down, and one to go!
RENNtech was celebrating their 35th anniversary so it was cool for my car to be parked in their area. But, we managed to have a good time indoors regardless and I am happy to have shown the car on this local event. One show down, and one to go!
This is the cousin, which looks identical pretty much - and brought to Amelia last year by Renntech:
It sold for an eye-watering $775,000.00, which I have to surmise would be the value of the silver one that Renntech has:
I believe the one I took a picture of above is the record-breaking car from Car & Driver's 1987 high speed shootout:
Lastly, this is the only other picture I have of the station wagon from a previous open house - which they have one next week and I will be visiting as they are 25 mins. away:
I have more pics of the silver one, of course - as its a legend being the original Hammer?
It sold for an eye-watering $775,000.00, which I have to surmise would be the value of the silver one that Renntech has:
1987 Mercedes-Benz AMG 'Hammer' Sedan
Chassis No. WDBEA30D5HA542559 Modern AMGs are throaty, fast, sporting cars with powerful engines with the performance to blow their regular production...
www.broadarrowauctions.com
I believe the one I took a picture of above is the record-breaking car from Car & Driver's 1987 high speed shootout:
Lastly, this is the only other picture I have of the station wagon from a previous open house - which they have one next week and I will be visiting as they are 25 mins. away:
I have more pics of the silver one, of course - as its a legend being the original Hammer?
Having been entrenched into Porsche's since before I could walk, I still appreciate them and there are a handful of owners of this marque within my family, aside from my own Type 2758. Despite having lived in Miami for over 12 years and it being about an hour away from Palm Beach, I seldom go back. I enjoyed my time there but I am at a different stage in my life now having gotten married and with a son.
However, I genuinely look forward ever year to head back to Miami and attend what I consider is the premier Porsche-only show in the East coast of the US - perhaps top 3 worldwide - Das Renn Treffen ("DRT") - with 2024 having been its 10th anniversary. My 500e was not ready last year to participate, so I was very excited to share my crazy concept of what the Mercedes and/or Porsche factory would have rolled out in 1993 as a sportier, motorsports-themed, more extreme version of the 500e had they made one - at DRT X.
There was nothing else on my end to do but to ensure it was clean the day prior, and that it looked okay after the 70 mile drive on the day of the show. I was in the category of "Other Porsches" - meaning Panamera's, Cayenne's, Macan's, etc. But, the South Florida Porsche community - similar to Cali - sure do enjoy their fair share of modified Pcars and I was optimistic that there would be like-minded enthusiasts like me who would appreciate the car for what it is. I have found that the w124.036 community - for the most part - is on the conservative side with their vehicles... and the regular ol' PCA consists of new 911's, Panameras, Cayennes that all look the same. God created different colors of the rainbow and there are different flavors of ice cream, so that every individual can dance to the beat of their own drum. But, DRT X allowed me to see if the creativity, efforts, patience and resources I have undertaken to transform my car, would be welcomed there vs. anywhere else?
Anyone not having gone on a drive at 7:30am on a Sunday morning is missing out on the pleasures of driving when there is no traffic, or imbeciles who raise doubts as to how they possibly could have gotten a driver's license... When I arrived to the show in what must have been record time, I was pleasantly greeted by my old, good friend Alvaro - who runs DRT - and who is so incredibly talented with everything he does... the cars he sells via Zweck, the selection of cars for the show, the cars in his personal stable, merchandise, etc. This is my 500e with his white 1991 Turbo that he's now owned longer than I did when we collaborated together in building it over 10 years ago (sponsored for the show by No Days Off Water):
It was good seeing Chimera (named as such when featured in Excellence in 2016) and how Al has taken the car to another level. However, words cannot describe my emotions when he asked me to follow his son in order to park my 500e. I was expecting to be placed in a back lot somewhere with the Cayennes or something. Instead, I got ringside/front seats to the entire show and was truly both humbling and very emotional for me.
There was an outpour of attention, inquiries, compliments, favorable experiences, etc. throughout the entire show and I was very happy indeed to know that like at Werks Reunion last year at Amelia, these cars are still highly regarded by car people and, that there are many individuals who truly appreciate my car. For perspective, below are just a handful of the 100's of other cars in attendance - there were 1,000's of people out in force that day.
However, I genuinely look forward ever year to head back to Miami and attend what I consider is the premier Porsche-only show in the East coast of the US - perhaps top 3 worldwide - Das Renn Treffen ("DRT") - with 2024 having been its 10th anniversary. My 500e was not ready last year to participate, so I was very excited to share my crazy concept of what the Mercedes and/or Porsche factory would have rolled out in 1993 as a sportier, motorsports-themed, more extreme version of the 500e had they made one - at DRT X.
There was nothing else on my end to do but to ensure it was clean the day prior, and that it looked okay after the 70 mile drive on the day of the show. I was in the category of "Other Porsches" - meaning Panamera's, Cayenne's, Macan's, etc. But, the South Florida Porsche community - similar to Cali - sure do enjoy their fair share of modified Pcars and I was optimistic that there would be like-minded enthusiasts like me who would appreciate the car for what it is. I have found that the w124.036 community - for the most part - is on the conservative side with their vehicles... and the regular ol' PCA consists of new 911's, Panameras, Cayennes that all look the same. God created different colors of the rainbow and there are different flavors of ice cream, so that every individual can dance to the beat of their own drum. But, DRT X allowed me to see if the creativity, efforts, patience and resources I have undertaken to transform my car, would be welcomed there vs. anywhere else?
Anyone not having gone on a drive at 7:30am on a Sunday morning is missing out on the pleasures of driving when there is no traffic, or imbeciles who raise doubts as to how they possibly could have gotten a driver's license... When I arrived to the show in what must have been record time, I was pleasantly greeted by my old, good friend Alvaro - who runs DRT - and who is so incredibly talented with everything he does... the cars he sells via Zweck, the selection of cars for the show, the cars in his personal stable, merchandise, etc. This is my 500e with his white 1991 Turbo that he's now owned longer than I did when we collaborated together in building it over 10 years ago (sponsored for the show by No Days Off Water):
It was good seeing Chimera (named as such when featured in Excellence in 2016) and how Al has taken the car to another level. However, words cannot describe my emotions when he asked me to follow his son in order to park my 500e. I was expecting to be placed in a back lot somewhere with the Cayennes or something. Instead, I got ringside/front seats to the entire show and was truly both humbling and very emotional for me.
There was an outpour of attention, inquiries, compliments, favorable experiences, etc. throughout the entire show and I was very happy indeed to know that like at Werks Reunion last year at Amelia, these cars are still highly regarded by car people and, that there are many individuals who truly appreciate my car. For perspective, below are just a handful of the 100's of other cars in attendance - there were 1,000's of people out in force that day.
It has been a while since I last posted but, I am ever so fortunate and grateful to be very busy with work, so that limits what I can do outside of same. I have also been participating and attending going on now 10 weeks straight (Sebring tomorrow will be the 11th) with car events all throughout Florida which makes me incredibly happy, and I will miss the 'action' once everything winds down next month.
Here are pics of the car at the annual RENNtech Open House last month. This tuning house is located some 25 minutes away and I will separately supplement the other post I started a while ago relating to them in posting several of the cars at the event.
Here are pics of the car at the annual RENNtech Open House last month. This tuning house is located some 25 minutes away and I will separately supplement the other post I started a while ago relating to them in posting several of the cars at the event.
Attachments
A week later, I found myself at Homestead International Speedway for Brian Redman's Targa66 Event, which used to be held locally in WPB, until the racetrack was permanently shut down a couple of years ago. Looking back now at my album for this track day, I may have gone a little overboard with pics of my car, but perhaps the setting in having been able to park inside the actual pits had something to do with it!?!
On the next post, I will include pics of the amazing machinery that participated this year!
On the next post, I will include pics of the amazing machinery that participated this year!
Just pure eye candy to highest level!!! and, the variety is simply out of this world... I have several videos also. In years prior, F1 cars have made multiple appearances Its held in February every year, most of the attendees are the participants themselves, there is no 'racing/timed competition' and the atmosphere is super laid back. I highly recommend and have pics from having attended for the past 15+ years.
Its held in February every year, most of the attendees are the participants themselves, there is no 'racing/timed competition' and the atmosphere is super laid back. I highly recommend and have pics from having attended for the past 15+ years.Attachments
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This year for me thus far has been incredibly fulfilling in that by the Grace of God, my business is doing very well and keeping me incredibly busy... And, I have been able to attend, participate and/or enjoy no less than 12+ car events during the weekends, which makes me tired, but also happy
These are some of the pics when I attended Sebring last month. The car was a true delight in the drive there where its been a few times already over the years. With very little traffic early in the morning, on winding country roads, with a freezing a/c, good stereo system, the car being tight with its suspension, and the drivetrain as responsive (or more) as my right foot, I cannot truly describe how getting to the track almost eclipsed the actual race itself. It was a very memorable experience and got to enjoy stretching the legs of the car considerably more than the usual short daily drives to work, school for my son, or other errands. These cars are meant to be driven and are fantastic cruisers!
These are some of the pics when I attended Sebring last month. The car was a true delight in the drive there where its been a few times already over the years. With very little traffic early in the morning, on winding country roads, with a freezing a/c, good stereo system, the car being tight with its suspension, and the drivetrain as responsive (or more) as my right foot, I cannot truly describe how getting to the track almost eclipsed the actual race itself. It was a very memorable experience and got to enjoy stretching the legs of the car considerably more than the usual short daily drives to work, school for my son, or other errands. These cars are meant to be driven and are fantastic cruisers!
Immediately after my return from the race later that day, it was straight to the car wash as the love bugs will show their love to anything that moves once you are out of normal city driving. I have made a habit to remove the Rotiform Aerodiscs when the car is being washed so that the front wheels can also be cleaned behind it. I keep a socket/wrench just for it in the spare tire area and it takes less than 15 seconds to remove them, consisting of the loosening of the hex nut. Whereas I know the car looks really good without them, and many people do not care for mismatching wheels, it is part of the look and design that I created for it.
However, it is always nice to loosen things up a bit and here are pics of the car without the fans... and the first time I then replaced the hex/center 'lock' cap back on the wheels. It looks almost like a different car, I will admit
However, it is always nice to loosen things up a bit and here are pics of the car without the fans... and the first time I then replaced the hex/center 'lock' cap back on the wheels. It looks almost like a different car, I will admit
Due to circumstance beyond my control, I was unable to attend last year's Wheels Across the Pond car show in Jupiter. I have been to it several times but never participated, until this year. Showing the car at Supercarweek in January in WPB, DRT in February in Miami, and now this one in March was a nice bookend for this special car...
I took several pictures all over since I had not done it in a while, and the car still shows in very good shape.
There were 100's of really outstanding cars, heavy crowds, and I have many pictures of the other participants - just not the time to share. After being at the show for many hours, the awards came up and I was simply happy to have been there with my son, Sebastien. It never once occurred to me that I had a shot at getting one, so when the award for Modern Contemporary half hour into the announcing of the awards (motorcycles went first) went to an AMG GT convertible, it was time to go home, right? Well.. as I was getting in the car a few minutes later, I kept hearing my name over the loud speaker and for a moment, I wasn't sure what was going one... Until I heard that the car had won Best Contemporary Mercedes, which required me to literally gallop back over to the award/stage area! It was so rewarding to see that others appreciate the car as much as I do and it was another wonderful experience
I took several pictures all over since I had not done it in a while, and the car still shows in very good shape.
There were 100's of really outstanding cars, heavy crowds, and I have many pictures of the other participants - just not the time to share. After being at the show for many hours, the awards came up and I was simply happy to have been there with my son, Sebastien. It never once occurred to me that I had a shot at getting one, so when the award for Modern Contemporary half hour into the announcing of the awards (motorcycles went first) went to an AMG GT convertible, it was time to go home, right? Well.. as I was getting in the car a few minutes later, I kept hearing my name over the loud speaker and for a moment, I wasn't sure what was going one... Until I heard that the car had won Best Contemporary Mercedes, which required me to literally gallop back over to the award/stage area! It was so rewarding to see that others appreciate the car as much as I do and it was another wonderful experience
With a heavy heart and after much debate for several weeks, I have taken the decision to sell the car... This has been my second 500e (about 10 years in between) and I have truly enjoyed the car, transforming it into a vision different from its previous iteration, while being able to share it both through this forum and to the different events over the years. It goes without saying that its a rather well sorted, good car with many, many more years and miles to conquer in style!
I have documented invoices for all of the work I have had done over the last 36 months and it exceeds $38K, as no expense has been spared. The car has 101K miles, with an oil change a couple of weeks ago. I will be taking it to Michel soon in order for him to repaint the front spoiler/bumper as I never got around to applying PPF to it after the repaint, and the car obviously has been driven. If the car is not sold via this forum, I will then create a separate listing on the Classifieds under the For Sale section as the car would go through consignment by a third party. I would like this thread to be kept separately than a for sale thread, which would inevitably have a link to this one, please.
Since I began this Owners and their Cars thread years ago, I have been truly appreciative of the forum having been respectful at all times towards the car and myself - it has meant a lot to me. I know that outside this forum in the wild, many individuals feel it is their divine right to criticize, belittle, insult, denigrate other people and their cars, simply out of malice/ignorance/hobby/ego/boredom/insecurities/etc. I am not seeking to sell the car via fire sale, but also not looking to recoup what I have either. If someone wants to seriously consider being the next caretaker, and is keen on market prices, just PM me - I am not in any rush. The car comes with the one set of Aerodiscs installed but also the second set of them, the OEM 16' spare tire as well as the newer one I recently obtained, several yards of the plaid fabric that looks very, very similar to the same ones used at Singer Automotive/Vehicle Design, the strut brace I had custom made for it from Hedgehog in Thailand, a complete list of mods, expenses, and an entire folder of absolutely everything via Dropbox, including a Carfax done within the past month. I hope it does go to a good home and that this process is as straightforward as it should be.
I have documented invoices for all of the work I have had done over the last 36 months and it exceeds $38K, as no expense has been spared. The car has 101K miles, with an oil change a couple of weeks ago. I will be taking it to Michel soon in order for him to repaint the front spoiler/bumper as I never got around to applying PPF to it after the repaint, and the car obviously has been driven. If the car is not sold via this forum, I will then create a separate listing on the Classifieds under the For Sale section as the car would go through consignment by a third party. I would like this thread to be kept separately than a for sale thread, which would inevitably have a link to this one, please.
Since I began this Owners and their Cars thread years ago, I have been truly appreciative of the forum having been respectful at all times towards the car and myself - it has meant a lot to me. I know that outside this forum in the wild, many individuals feel it is their divine right to criticize, belittle, insult, denigrate other people and their cars, simply out of malice/ignorance/hobby/ego/boredom/insecurities/etc. I am not seeking to sell the car via fire sale, but also not looking to recoup what I have either. If someone wants to seriously consider being the next caretaker, and is keen on market prices, just PM me - I am not in any rush. The car comes with the one set of Aerodiscs installed but also the second set of them, the OEM 16' spare tire as well as the newer one I recently obtained, several yards of the plaid fabric that looks very, very similar to the same ones used at Singer Automotive/Vehicle Design, the strut brace I had custom made for it from Hedgehog in Thailand, a complete list of mods, expenses, and an entire folder of absolutely everything via Dropbox, including a Carfax done within the past month. I hope it does go to a good home and that this process is as straightforward as it should be.
This car is now for sale at Mayor Cars in Miami and a new, separate listing within this forum has created in furtherance of same.
www.500eboard.co
FOR SALE - 1993 Mercedes 500E Polar White/Black + Plaid Interior, Modified - 102kmi | Cars for Sale - 500E / E500 ONLY
Over the years that I have owned this wonderful car since taking delivery of it in April of 2021, I have documented everything undertaken prior to my ownership (with various links) as well as a considerable amount of maintenance, modifications, and experiences during my ownership, which can be...
So... the 500e has moved on overseas over to Brazil, where no doubt it will enjoyed and admired for many more years by the sheer magnitude of those enthusiastic individuals residing internationally, who (like me) very much enjoy 'youngtimer' cars like these.
Last year, things began to pick up and then some at work. My daily commute is less than 15 minutes in traffic, and I am mostly in a car by myself, many times accompanied by my 12 year old son. On the times my wife would be present, she does not like anything that is not new, low, impractical, loud, fast, etc. so... the 'need' for me to have a sedan faded (I own another older Italian sedan languishing in a shop for years, but that's another story).
The hunt began for what I truly wanted - a dream car that I have always admired. And, found this 2002 Aston Martin Vanquish 2+2 out of Connecticut by the Cultivated Collector:
thecultivatedcollector.com
The draw? It has a manual 6 Spd conversion, which eliminates any concerns over the known issues with the clutch/transmission on this cars. I have owned it now for about a year, and it is an unbelievable blessing and fortune for me to drive the snot out of the car, constantly. A near 500hp manual 6-speed transmission mated to a V12 is hard to describe, especially with the aura, sound and feel that accompanies this particular beast!
But, I wasn't entirely done with Mercedes Benzes in general either. Although the 500e will forever be the only car I have bought two of, deep down inside have always wanted since childhood a Mercedes with big Penta wheels monochromed... Once I decided I had enjoyed the 500e fully, the only other car that I could think of wanting was a w126 AMG SEC widebody. But, those are slightly out of my price range and I already own a mid 1980's 2+2 with a bad attitude and would not need another one. I do not care for convertibles or 'big' cars, so when I found this on BAT last year, I bought it:
bringatrailer.com
This S123 went directly to Pierre Hedary in Titusville with a no cost, open checkbook to make it the most reliable and mechanically sound w123 around - and was at Pierre's for a good 6 months. Mission was accomplished and I subsequently made a considerable amount of additional efforts/changes/options/resources with my friend Michel's help - to make it be a dream come true. It is somewhat still similar to what the pics show from the listing, but not quite. I have never posted about the car and may get around to documenting the build at AMG Classic website, time permitting which these days for me, is a challenge.
Because I knew 2024 was turning out to be a good year for me, I realized something still remained missing from when everything went bad and I fell flat on my face in 2015... Not only did I have to sell personal effects to make ends meet, but also some cars - including my prized 1991 Porsche 911 Turbo known as Chimera.
Newer Porsches don't do anything for me, but I fell into 500e ownership because I grew up as a Porsche guy. And, not having a 500e took away that connection from the brand for me... Since all Porsches in general have varying degrees of customization, I felt that the 911 platform was too played out, heck I even had done an entire redo on a perfect, high value 964 Turbo! So, I ended up also buying last year this car - a Subaru powered 1973 Porsche 914 after it was a no sale on the third go around in BAT:
bringatrailer.com
For the past few months, I have been slowly attempting to document the build of this 914 at the Pelican Parts Forum, since I cannot damn leave a car well enough alone, but... it's going to be epic! The car was supposed to have made its debut at Amelia last weekend, having been accepted at Werks Reunion, Classic Kickoff, and Cars & Caffeine and then onto the 12 hours of Sebring this weekend, but not to be as the quality of the work requires a lot of Michel's time. Below is the link to the build if anyone is interested in once again seeing how my imagination and creative juices somehow make me envision lots of modifications on my cars:
In light of these recent acquisitions, I still check in from time to time on this forum. Perhaps the new owner of my 500e will create a new owner's thread, but although often said, I can personally attest that "life is short, you gotta enjoy every moment of it!" Thank you to all who provided positive, good input on the various posts I contributed over the years at this forum, as it might encourage new, younger owners to not feel pressured into attempting to appease anyone. Opinions are like bellybuttons - everybody's got one Will see you again!
Last year, things began to pick up and then some at work. My daily commute is less than 15 minutes in traffic, and I am mostly in a car by myself, many times accompanied by my 12 year old son. On the times my wife would be present, she does not like anything that is not new, low, impractical, loud, fast, etc. so... the 'need' for me to have a sedan faded (I own another older Italian sedan languishing in a shop for years, but that's another story).
The hunt began for what I truly wanted - a dream car that I have always admired. And, found this 2002 Aston Martin Vanquish 2+2 out of Connecticut by the Cultivated Collector:
The Cultivated Collector
The Cultivated Collector is the realization of a dream to provide collectors and enthusiasts with the finest investment-grade vehicles on earth
thecultivatedcollector.com
The draw? It has a manual 6 Spd conversion, which eliminates any concerns over the known issues with the clutch/transmission on this cars. I have owned it now for about a year, and it is an unbelievable blessing and fortune for me to drive the snot out of the car, constantly. A near 500hp manual 6-speed transmission mated to a V12 is hard to describe, especially with the aura, sound and feel that accompanies this particular beast!
But, I wasn't entirely done with Mercedes Benzes in general either. Although the 500e will forever be the only car I have bought two of, deep down inside have always wanted since childhood a Mercedes with big Penta wheels monochromed... Once I decided I had enjoyed the 500e fully, the only other car that I could think of wanting was a w126 AMG SEC widebody. But, those are slightly out of my price range and I already own a mid 1980's 2+2 with a bad attitude and would not need another one. I do not care for convertibles or 'big' cars, so when I found this on BAT last year, I bought it:
No Reserve: 1980 Mercedes-Benz 300TD
Bid for the chance to own a No Reserve: 1980 Mercedes-Benz 300TD at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #136,095.
bringatrailer.com
This S123 went directly to Pierre Hedary in Titusville with a no cost, open checkbook to make it the most reliable and mechanically sound w123 around - and was at Pierre's for a good 6 months. Mission was accomplished and I subsequently made a considerable amount of additional efforts/changes/options/resources with my friend Michel's help - to make it be a dream come true. It is somewhat still similar to what the pics show from the listing, but not quite. I have never posted about the car and may get around to documenting the build at AMG Classic website, time permitting which these days for me, is a challenge.
Because I knew 2024 was turning out to be a good year for me, I realized something still remained missing from when everything went bad and I fell flat on my face in 2015... Not only did I have to sell personal effects to make ends meet, but also some cars - including my prized 1991 Porsche 911 Turbo known as Chimera.
Newer Porsches don't do anything for me, but I fell into 500e ownership because I grew up as a Porsche guy. And, not having a 500e took away that connection from the brand for me... Since all Porsches in general have varying degrees of customization, I felt that the 911 platform was too played out, heck I even had done an entire redo on a perfect, high value 964 Turbo! So, I ended up also buying last year this car - a Subaru powered 1973 Porsche 914 after it was a no sale on the third go around in BAT:
Turbocharged Subaru-Powered 1973 Porsche 914
Bid for the chance to own a Turbocharged Subaru-Powered 1973 Porsche 914 at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #161,479.
bringatrailer.com
For the past few months, I have been slowly attempting to document the build of this 914 at the Pelican Parts Forum, since I cannot damn leave a car well enough alone, but... it's going to be epic! The car was supposed to have made its debut at Amelia last weekend, having been accepted at Werks Reunion, Classic Kickoff, and Cars & Caffeine and then onto the 12 hours of Sebring this weekend, but not to be as the quality of the work requires a lot of Michel's time. Below is the link to the build if anyone is interested in once again seeing how my imagination and creative juices somehow make me envision lots of modifications on my cars:
Radical 914-GT Evocation - Pelican Parts Forums
Life sometimes can throw us a curve ball or two (or 7!?!) but, I am neither special nor different than everyone else who has to work extraordinarily
forums.pelicanparts.com
In light of these recent acquisitions, I still check in from time to time on this forum. Perhaps the new owner of my 500e will create a new owner's thread, but although often said, I can personally attest that "life is short, you gotta enjoy every moment of it!" Thank you to all who provided positive, good input on the various posts I contributed over the years at this forum, as it might encourage new, younger owners to not feel pressured into attempting to appease anyone. Opinions are like bellybuttons - everybody's got one
Will see you again!
The 500e remains the only vehicle that I have bought on 2 separate occasions - some 10+ years apart. The innate desire to personalize my cars is intrinsic in me, with my appreciation and enjoyment of all my cars/projects/rides...
So, whereas despair and financial hardships went hand-in-hand with me a few years ago for way too many years, I managed somehow to get back in the 500e fold in 2021 with what turned out to be a world-class example of what can be done on one of these 30+ year-old family sedans, it’s taken quite a few other cars to replace it…
The S123 above takes the cake in terms of dependability and solid, old-school construction. The Aston Vanquish 6 speed manual, transmission swap takes the reign of smooth and powerful delivery that all 500e’s are known for - mine included x2. The Porsche 914 does exactly just that… allows me to continue my PCA membership and swap it from these Type 2758’s… The car is completed, the link above shows details and the awe inspiring finished project - check it out why don’t ya?
But life goes on and continues… so aside from these purchases last year, I have made a few more this year, including my 1986 Quattroporte with 8K original miles (modified it with everything I had on my ‘85, since it’s been 3 years waiting for a resto):
And then earlier this summer, I fell in love with another Alfa (had sold an essentially new Giulia to buy my 2nd 500e) that checked all the boxes:
bringatrailer.com
Naturally, doing a build thread as I intend to make it great again, as I think I’ve done (depends how many ppl you ask outside those purists who lead very happy, fulfilling lives I’m sure), on all my cars without exception:
www.alfabb.com
But recently, felt the need for yet another toy and build and thread, to gift to my son in a couple of years as I may not have the financial stability that’s evaded me for most of my career:
bringatrailer.com
At the end of the day… I’m still an old Mercedes fan, appreciate hand-built specimens, enjoy speed, exclusivity, and fun cars - everything that these 500e’s encompass. Not having seller’s remorse, but all of these cars I’ve bought since passing mine to a new owner all have been to replace this wonderful (mine, as heavily customized), amazing 500e
So, whereas despair and financial hardships went hand-in-hand with me a few years ago for way too many years, I managed somehow to get back in the 500e fold in 2021 with what turned out to be a world-class example of what can be done on one of these 30+ year-old family sedans, it’s taken quite a few other cars to replace it…
The S123 above takes the cake in terms of dependability and solid, old-school construction. The Aston Vanquish 6 speed manual, transmission swap takes the reign of smooth and powerful delivery that all 500e’s are known for - mine included x2. The Porsche 914 does exactly just that… allows me to continue my PCA membership and swap it from these Type 2758’s… The car is completed, the link above shows details and the awe inspiring finished project - check it out why don’t ya?
But life goes on and continues… so aside from these purchases last year, I have made a few more this year, including my 1986 Quattroporte with 8K original miles (modified it with everything I had on my ‘85, since it’s been 3 years waiting for a resto):
QUATTROPORTE FOR SALE- 86 MASERATI FOR SALE- MASERATI FOR SALE- 1986 MASERATI QUATTROPORTE FOR SALE-
1986 MASERATI QUATTROPORTE ONLY 7300 MILES. SIMPLY THE BEST!!!
www.classiccargallery.com
And then earlier this summer, I fell in love with another Alfa (had sold an essentially new Giulia to buy my 2nd 500e) that checked all the boxes:
No Reserve: 1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6
Bid for the chance to own a No Reserve: 1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6 at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #196,675.
bringatrailer.com
Naturally, doing a build thread as I intend to make it great again, as I think I’ve done (depends how many ppl you ask outside those purists who lead very happy, fulfilling lives I’m sure), on all my cars without exception:
Black 1986 GTV-6
Hello, Alfa Universe! I bought the car featured on BAT this past week, which had previously been sold via BAT back in October of 2021. With more time, I will do a proper introduction as I previously owned a 2019 Giulia a few years ago but, always prefer analog cars from the last century...
But recently, felt the need for yet another toy and build and thread, to gift to my son in a couple of years as I may not have the financial stability that’s evaded me for most of my career:
No Reserve: Modified Euro 1985 BMW 325e Coupe 5-Speed
Bid for the chance to own a No Reserve: Modified Euro 1985 BMW 325e Coupe 5-Speed at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #217,801.
bringatrailer.com
At the end of the day… I’m still an old Mercedes fan, appreciate hand-built specimens, enjoy speed, exclusivity, and fun cars - everything that these 500e’s encompass. Not having seller’s remorse, but all of these cars I’ve bought since passing mine to a new owner all have been to replace this wonderful (mine, as heavily customized), amazing 500e
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