The iconic Mercedes-Benz Classic Center has embarked on an exciting new chapter, relocating to a sprawling 1.1 million square foot facility in Long Beach. This move, celebrated with a grand opening in October 2022, marks a significant expansion for the center dedicated to the maintenance, restoration, and celebration of benz classic vehicles. Enthusiasts and owners of these timeless automobiles now have access to an even more comprehensive and state-of-the-art facility, ensuring the legacy of benz classic Mercedes-Benz cars continues for generations to come. The grand opening event, featuring tours led by director Mike Kunz and assistant Nate Lander, alongside a spectacular car show, was an unmissable occasion for anyone passionate about the marque.
A New Home for Benz Classic Excellence
The relocation to the former McDonnel Douglas/Boeing site in Long Beach addresses the long-term needs of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, which had outgrown its previous location in Irvine, CA. This new address at 3860 N Lakewood Blvd is not just about space; it represents a strategic consolidation and enhancement of Mercedes-Benz operations in the Western US. Crucially, the facility boasts the capacity to store over 5,000 vehicles, making it a central hub for all Western US regional offices involved in new vehicle preparation. This consolidation brings together decades of logistical expertise under one roof, streamlining the process from port arrival to dealership readiness. Owners of Mercedes-Benz vehicles from the 1980s and 90s might recall the “VPC” (Vehicle Preparation Center) decal on their windshields; now, the Long Beach facility serves as a primary VPC, handling final detailing, accessory installations, and touch-ups for all new Mercedes-Benz vehicles arriving at the Port of Long Beach, just 14 miles away. This integration underscores the commitment to efficiency and quality, benefiting both new vehicle distribution and the specialized care for benz classic models at the same location.
Restoration and Craftsmanship for Benz Classics
A highlight of the new Classic Center is its expanded restoration and trim shop areas, where skilled technicians meticulously work on breathing new life into benz classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles. During the facility tour, Nate Lander expertly detailed the Classic Center’s rigorous processes to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of materials and construction in every restoration project. A remarkable example of this dedication was the presence of a 1938 230 Cabriolet B undergoing meticulous restoration, showcasing traditional techniques alongside modern precision. The comforting hum of a Consew sewing machine in the upholstery area served as a testament to the enduring craftsmanship applied to these benz classic automobiles. Further emphasizing the depth of their restoration capabilities, the tour included the sheet metal fabrication area, where a heavily distressed 300SL Gullwing was undergoing an extensive re-bodying process. The sheer scale of damage being addressed highlighted the Classic Center’s commitment to preserving even the most challenging benz classic projects.
Showcasing Benz Classic Heritage
The grand opening celebration extended beyond the impressive facility itself with a car show that filled the massive parking lot with a breathtaking array of benz classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The event provided a vibrant gathering for enthusiasts and owners to admire a diverse collection, ranging from Randy Carlson’s beautifully preserved 1940 320 Sport Cabriolet, featuring unique Rometsch coachwork, to Arbor Kamberi’s striking green SLS with custom green carbon fiber accents. This eclectic mix underscored the broad appeal of the Mercedes-Benz marque across generations and styles. The car show was more than just a display; it was an opportunity for the benz classic community to connect, share their passion, and witness the incredible variety and enduring beauty of these automobiles firsthand.
Extending the Benz Classic Experience to the Petersen Museum
Following the captivating car show, the celebration of benz classic automotive heritage continued with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. The Andy Warhol’s CARS exhibit offered a unique and enriching experience, showcasing Warhol’s iconic prints commissioned by Mercedes-Benz in 1987 alongside the actual cars featured in the artwork. This immersive exhibition allowed visitors to appreciate the intersection of art and automotive design, placing benz classic Mercedes-Benz models within a broader cultural context. Witnessing a 1969 C111, a 1954 W196 streamliner, a W125 Grand Prix car, the pioneering 1886 Patent Motorwagen, and a Gullwing alongside Warhol’s artistic interpretations created a powerful “mixed media” experience, further solidifying the benz classic Mercedes-Benz as not just vehicles, but cultural icons.
In conclusion, the expansion of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center to Long Beach signifies a major step forward in the preservation and celebration of benz classic automobiles. The new facility not only provides ample space for restoration, maintenance, and storage but also serves as a vibrant hub for the benz classic community. With its state-of-the-art capabilities and unwavering commitment to authenticity, the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center is well-positioned to ensure that these automotive masterpieces continue to inspire and captivate for many years to come.
