It was the brainchild of Austrian-born engineer Wilhelm Maybach and businessman Emil Jellinek, who was also a pioneering racing driver. The car marked the beginning of a legendary automotive brand that has become synonymous with luxury, innovation, and high performance.
Key features of the Mercedes 35 hp included:
1. Front-mounted engine: Unlike many early cars of the era that had rear-mounted engines, the Mercedes 35 hp featured a front-mounted four-cylinder engine, offering improved weight distribution and better handling.
2. Honeycomb radiator: The car introduced the use of a honeycomb radiator at the front of the vehicle to enhance cooling efficiency and manage engine heat. This radiator design became a signature feature of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
3. Low center of gravity: The car's low center of gravity, achieved by placing the engine low in the chassis, provided better stability and handling characteristics.
4. Tonneau body: The Mercedes 35 hp came with a tonneau body style, featuring a two-row bench seat and a foldable rear canopy for protection from the elements.
5. High power output: For its time, the car was considered powerful, boasting a 35-horsepower engine that could propel the vehicle to a top speed of approximately 75 km/h (47 mph).
6. Simple yet elegant design: The car's design showcased clean lines, a long hood, and a minimalist aesthetic that would become a defining trait of future Mercedes-Benz models.
7. Mercedes' name: The car was named "Mercedes" after Jellinek's daughter, Mercedes Jellinek, who encouraged her father's involvement in the automotive industry and acted as a spokesperson for the brand.
The Mercedes 35 hp was a pivotal moment in automotive history, as it set the standard for high-performance luxury cars and paved the way for Mercedes-Benz's rise as a prominent automaker in the 20th century and beyond.
