Gorden Wagener called the new Red Pig an unprecedented show car, created as a modern reinterpretation of the historical model.
The project uses the brand’s current stylistic solutions. Instead of traditional "layered" headlights, three-pointed stars are installed, and at the front, a large chrome Iconic Grille, which debuted on the Vision Iconic and new GLC. The concept also received modern aerodynamic elements: a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear diffuser.
The angular lines of the original 300 SEL have been replaced with smoother forms. The silhouette has become more akin to the Ponton series sedans of the 1950s.
Mercedes Red Pig Concept
The body design references the car that participated in the 1971 "Spa 24 Hours" race, but real sponsors are replaced with imaginary ones. For example, Castrol made way for Carlsbad—the name of a California city where the Mercedes design center is located.
The concept is unlikely to become the precursor for a new model, but along with Vision Iconic, it demonstrates the designers’ desire to emphasize the brand’s historical legacy.
Wagener previously noted that the new Mercedes design language would be built around the idea of reverence, to avoid the sea of identical cars.
Wagener left the company last month, concluding a 28-year career at Mercedes. His successor is Bastian Baudy, who previously led Mercedes-AMG design.
Source: Autocar
