The original Mercedes-Benz W25 is an impressive piece of automotive history. The Mercedes-Benz W25 was introduced during the Silver Arrows era and was revolutionary for its time. It was built from 1934 to 1936 and marked the beginning of a new generation of racing cars. Engineers Rudolf Uhlenhaut and Fritz Nallinger played a crucial role in the development of the vehicle. The W25 succeeded the W17 racing car and brought numerous technological innovations that, combined, were responsible for its impressive performance. The car was equipped with a 3.4-liter in-line eight-cylinder engine, which was expanded to 4 liters in 1936. This power and sophisticated aerodynamic features made it a legend on the racetracks.
The Mercedes-Benz W25 had remarkable successes in the 1930s. The car won numerous races and championships, demonstrating the superiority of German engineering. The Mercedes-Benz W25 became particularly famous for its successes in Grand Prix races. Drivers like Luigi Fagioli and Rudolf Caracciola achieved outstanding results with the W25. Caracciola won the European Championship in 1935, further enhancing the car's fame. The W25's successes significantly contributed to solidifying Mercedes-Benz's reputation in international motorsport.
The Mercedes-Benz W25 was equipped with numerous technical refinements that made it a milestone in motorsport. The 3.4-liter engine produced up to 354 horsepower, achieved through forced induction with a Roots blower. In addition to the powerful engine, the car had sophisticated aerodynamics, including a streamlined body and fenders integrated into the bodywork. A standout feature of the W25 was its lightweight construction, using innovative materials like aluminum. This reduced the weight of the vehicle to about 750 kilograms (1,653 pounds), a significant improvement over previous models.
The model car in 1/18 scale presented here, manufactured by CMC, is an extremely accurate replica of the Mercedes-Benz W25. It is predominantly made of diecast and stands out for its high level of detail. Members of the "boxengasse" model car collection appreciate this model for its authentic representation of the original. The model's paintwork is kept in a simple yet elegant white, reflecting the historical colors of the car. Detailed elements like the intricate wire-spoke wheels and the Mercedes-Benz logo on the hood and rear of the vehicle are precisely replicated, adding to its authenticity.
The 1/18 scale model of the Mercedes-Benz W25 by CMC stands out for its accurate and elaborate design. The realistic representation of the cockpit is particularly striking, with a small but finely crafted steering wheel and a blue seat, typical of the original vehicle. The detailed body of the model includes the faithful reproduction of ventilation slots and polished metal parts inspired by the historic race car. The sponsor decals, such as the Mercedes-Benz logo on the hood and rear, are precisely replicated, further enhancing the model's authentic appearance. Such a model not only stands for the admiration of the engineering of yesteryears but also for the passion of collectors.