One of the most popular models amongst replica car builders is the classic Mercedes-Benz 300SL, and all for good reason as only 1,400 ‘Gullwing’ coupes and a little over 1,800 roadsters were ever built from 1954 to 1963, which makes them both extremely rare and expensive.
Now it seems that Mercedes-Benz and its parent company Daimler are not willing to turn a blind eye anymore and are taking legal actions against unauthorized replica builds.
After winning a lawsuit against an unnamed company based in Germany that had built an unlawful replica of a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W198 series), the automaker made it a point to tell the world that it means business by destroying the replica and publishing pictures of the event.
The company also issued a statement, which among other things, said it will toughen its stance against replica makers.
“The body shape of the legendary gullwing model has been trademarked by Daimler AG. Anyone building, offering or selling replicas of the vehicle is in breach of the Company’s rights. This even applies if the replicas do not incorporate any logos or trademarks of the Company. Daimler AG has long taken a tough approach to vehicle replicas.”
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